Utility trailer and method of securing removable seat to utility trailer

Abstract

The present invention relates to a utility trailer (100) for carrying at least one person, where the trailer (100) comprises a chassis (102) forming a load carrying structure of the utility trailer (100), a sheet element (104) supported by the chassis (102), a removable seat (200), where the removable seat (200) is mounted on the chassis (102), the utility trailer (100) is configured for attaching the removable seat (200) in at least two lateral positions, one of the at least two lateral positions being a central position with respect to a lateral direction (T) of the utility trailer (100). Also disclosed is a method (1000) for securing a removable seat (200) to a utility trailer (100).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to trailers for transporting one or more persons, and more particularly, to a utility trailer and a method for securing a removable seat to a utility trailer. Background Art

[0002] Utility trailers are popular items that contribute to the active lifestyle of their owners. As the name suggests, a utility trailer can be used for a variety of purposes. For example, a utility trailer can be used to transport children on a family trip or during the daily commute. A utility trailer can further naturally be used to transport luggage, pets, etc.

[0003] Most utility trailers are suitable for use as trailers during walking and running (i.e. when the user pushes or pulls the trailer with his feet). In addition, accessories are usually provided that allow the trailer to be used, for example, when skiing or to attach the trailer to a bicycle so that it can be towed.

[0004] Trailers suitable for transporting people are subject to a variety of requirements in terms of the safety they provide to their occupants, and manufacturers of utility trailers are constantly seeking to improve their products to meet and exceed these requirements. In addition, ease of use is an area of ​​continuous development, especially for utility trailers that can not only be adjusted to the activity at hand, but also carry different numbers of passengers. Utility Model Content

[0005] In view of the above, an object of the present invention is to provide an improved utility trailer and a method of securing a removable seat to a utility trailer that alleviates at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art. For example, an object of the present invention is to provide a utility trailer that has improved safety while allowing a user to adapt the utility trailer for use with one or two passengers. In addition, an object of the present invention is to facilitate the removal, attachment, and repositioning of a removable seat for a utility trailer.

[0006] These objects are achieved by the subject-matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments can be found in the dependent claims as well as in the attached description and the drawings.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a multi-purpose trailer for carrying at least one person is provided. The trailer comprises:

[0008] a chassis, which forms the load-bearing structure of the trailer,

[0009] a sheet element supported by the chassis,

[0010] At least one removable seat, wherein the trailer is configured for attaching the removable seat in at least two lateral positions, one of the at least two lateral positions being a central position relative to the lateral direction of the utility trailer. Thus, the weight distribution of the load in the utility trailer can be adjusted according to the number of passengers traveling in the trailer. When one passenger is present, the removable seat can be centrally positioned in the utility trailer, thereby reducing the risk of uneven loading, which could jeopardize the stability of the trailer, for example during fast turns or the like.

[0011] The utility trailer may comprise at least one upper seat attachment and at least one lower seat attachment, to which a removable seat is configured to be fixed. The at least one upper seat attachment and / or the at least one lower seat attachment may be attached to a sheet element. The provision of the upper seat attachment and the lower seat attachment facilitates the attachment and removal of the at least one removable seat to and from the utility trailer. The attachment of the respective seat attachment to the sheet element facilitates the manufacture of the trailer, since the respective seat attachment may be formed as a sheet element or may be integral with the sheet element before the sheet element is attached to the trailer. Furthermore, the chassis of the trailer does not have to be provided with any separate features for providing the upper seat attachment and the lower seat attachment, since they may be attached to the sheet element.

[0012] In an embodiment where the utility trailer comprises at least one upper seat attachment and at least one lower seat attachment, and the removable seat is configured to be fixed to the at least one upper seat attachment and the at least one lower seat attachment, the distance between the at least one upper seat attachment and the at least one lower seat attachment may be configured to vary depending on the folded state of the chassis. Thus, the attachment of the at least one removable seat is facilitated and the risk of inadvertently releasing the removable seat is further reduced.

[0013] The distance between the at least one upper seat attachment and the at least one lower seat attachment is greater in the in-use state than in the folded state of the trailer. The greater distance in the in-use state may provide a pre-tensioning force for the at least one removable seat, thereby facilitating the correct positioning of the removable seat and further securing its attachment to the utility trailer.

[0014] In an embodiment where the utility trailer includes at least one upper seat attachment and at least one lower seat attachment, and the removable seat is configured to be secured to the at least one upper seat attachment and the at least one lower seat attachment, the chassis may include a folding hinge disposed between the at least one upper seat attachment and the at least one lower seat attachment. The folding hinge facilitates controlling the distance between the at least one upper seat attachment and the at least one lower seat attachment according to a folded state of the utility trailer.

[0015] The utility trailer may include at least two pairs of upper seat accessories and at least two pairs of lower seat accessories aligned in a transverse direction of the trailer, and the removable seat is configured to be fixed to the at least two pairs of upper seat accessories and at least two pairs of lower seat accessories. The distance between each upper seat accessory and each lower seat accessory in each pair may be substantially the same as the distance between two adjacent pairs of upper seat accessories and lower seat accessories, respectively. Thus, the two pairs of upper seat accessories and / or lower seat accessories may provide three different positions of the removable seat in the transverse direction of the trailer, namely two lateral positions and one central position.

[0016] The utility trailer further comprises a plurality of straps configured to be fixed to buckles for connection to a safety belt of each removable seat, wherein one strap is arranged in the middle between each two upper seat accessories and / or lower seat accessories in the transverse direction of the trailer.

[0017] The strips may be attached to the sheet element and / or to the chassis of the trailer.

[0018] The removable seat may include at least one upper connector configured to attach a corresponding upper seat accessory and at least one lower connector configured to attach to a corresponding lower seat accessory.

[0019] Each of the upper seat attachment and the lower seat attachment may include a first opening and a second opening through which the removable seat is configured to pass. The first opening may be larger than the second opening, and wherein the first opening on at least one of the upper attachments and / or the first opening of at least one of the lower attachments are arranged in a proximal direction relative to the trailer. The larger size of the first opening facilitates insertion of the connector into the first opening, while the smaller size of the second opening reduces the risk of the connector being inadvertently detached from the seat attachment.

[0020] Each removable seat may include an opening through its seat portion, and wherein each strap is configured to extend through the opening. Thus, the strap further secures at least one removable seat to the utility trailer.

[0021] Each seat accessory may include a fixing portion configured to pass through an attachment opening in a corresponding connector. Thus, a seat accessory may be formed in a utility trailer without any through holes. The attachment opening in each connector need only be of sufficient size to allow the seat accessory to pass therethrough, thereby eliminating or reducing the risk that, for example, a child may insert a finger and become caught in either the seat accessory or the connector.

[0022] Each seat attachment may comprise a stem portion forming an attachment between the fixed portion and the utility trailer, and wherein the fixed portion is arranged at an angle relative to the stem portion. Preferably, the fixed portion and the stem portion form a T-shaped seat attachment. The stem portion facilitates screwing the fixed portion into the connector.

[0023] The fixing portion may include a reinforcing element configured to increase the rigidity of the fixing portion.

[0024] The trailer may include a reclining backrest, and wherein at least the removable seat is configured to follow the reclining of the backrest.

[0025] In a second aspect, a method for securing a removable seat to a utility trailer is provided. The utility trailer comprises:

[0026] a chassis, which forms the load-bearing structure of the trailer,

[0027] a sheet element supported by the chassis,

[0028] Wherein the utility trailer includes at least one upper seat attachment and at least one lower seat attachment to which the removable seat is configured to be secured, the method comprising the steps of:

[0029] Set up the utility trailer with the seats attached.

[0030] attaching at least one removable seat to at least one upper seat attachment and at least one lower seat attachment,

[0031] The utility trailer is arranged in a fixed state of the removable seats, whereby at least one removable seat is fixed to the utility trailer. Thus, it is easy to attach the removable seat to the utility trailer, so that the utility trailer can be easily adjusted according to the number of passengers of the trailer. This further improves the usability of the trailer and its safety.

[0032] Attaching the at least one removable seat may include passing at least one upper connector on the removable seat through a corresponding upper seat accessory and passing at least one lower connector on the removable seat through a corresponding lower seat accessory.

[0033] Attaching the at least one removable seat may include passing at least one upper seat accessory through a corresponding upper connector and passing at least one lower seat accessory through a corresponding lower connector.

[0034] Arranging the utility trailer in a seat-attached state may include at least partially folding a chassis of the utility trailer, and wherein arranging the utility trailer in a removable seat-secured state includes at least partially unfolding the chassis to a use state of the utility trailer. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] With reference to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the present invention cited as examples are described in more detail below.

[0036] In the attached picture:

[0037] Figure 1 A front view of a utility trailer configured for transporting two passengers side-by-side is disclosed.

[0038] Figure 2 A front view of a utility trailer is disclosed with removable seats removed.

[0039] Figure 3 A front view of a utility trailer configured for transporting one passenger is disclosed.

[0040] Figure 4 A front view of a removable seat for a utility trailer is disclosed.

[0041] Figure 5 A rear view of a removable seat for a utility trailer is disclosed.

[0042] Figure 6 A rear view of a removable seat for a utility trailer is disclosed.

[0043] Figure 7 A rear view of a removable seat for a utility trailer is disclosed.

[0044] Figure 8 A rear view of a removable seat for a utility trailer is disclosed.

[0045] Fig. 9 A side view of a utility trailer is disclosed.

[0046] Fig.10 A schematic side view of a portion of the chassis of a utility trailer in use is disclosed.

[0047] Fig.11 A schematic side view of a portion of a chassis of a utility trailer in a folded state is disclosed.

[0048] Fig.12 A detailed view of the seat attachment and connector is disclosed.

[0049] Fig.13 A detailed view of the seat attachment and connector is disclosed.

[0050] Fig.14 A detailed view of the seat attachment is disclosed.

[0051] Fig.15 A detailed view of the seat attachment is disclosed.

[0052] Fig.16 A detailed view of the seat attachment is disclosed.

[0053] Fig.17 A detailed view of the connector is disclosed.

[0054] Fig.18 A detailed view of a connector attached to a seat accessory is disclosed.

[0055] Fig.19 A schematic flow chart of a method of securing a removable seat to a utility trailer is disclosed.

[0056] The accompanying drawings show diagrammatic exemplary embodiments of the present invention and are therefore not necessarily drawn to scale. It should be understood that the embodiments shown and described are exemplary and the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. It should also be noted that some details in the accompanying drawings may be exaggerated in order to better describe and illustrate the present invention. Unless otherwise specified, similar reference numerals refer to similar elements throughout the specification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0057] The teachings of this document will be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which certain embodiments are shown. Throughout the drawings, like numerals refer to like elements.

[0058] Figure 1 A utility trailer 100 for carrying at least one passenger is disclosed. Preferably, the utility trailer 100 is configured to optionally carry one or two passengers, preferably one or two infants / children. Thus, the utility trailer 100 has a single passenger configuration (e.g., Figure 3 as shown) and as Figure 1 Two-passenger configuration shown.

[0059] The trailer 100 includes a chassis 102 that forms the load-bearing structure of the trailer 100. The chassis 102 may be foldable, thereby allowing the trailer 100 to be folded into a more compact state, such as for attaching the trailer to a vehicle for transport or storage. Figure 1 As further shown in FIG. 1 , the trailer 100 may be equipped with main wheels 106 and front wheels 108. Each wheel 106, 108 may be removable, for example for transport or for mounting of accessories such as a tow bar. For example, the main wheels 106 may be replaced with skis to allow the trailer 100 to be used for skiing.

[0060] The trailer further comprises a sheet element 104 supported by the chassis 102. The sheet element 104 can be a textile element, which is supported by the chassis 102 and itself at least partially forms a support, for example, for a removable seat 200. The sheet element 104 can be made of a natural fiber and / or plastic material or a combination of several materials. The sheet element 104 can further comprise several independent parts, for example, one or several rear parts forming a backrest, and one or several side parts and a front part that can have an integrated transparent window segment. In addition, the sheet element 104 can be provided with one or more zippers, for example, to connect different parts of the sheet element 104 and / or to provide an opening in the sheet element 104.

[0061] As previously mentioned, the utility trailer 100 further includes a removable seat 200, wherein the trailer 100 is configured to attach the removable seat 200 in at least two lateral positions, one of the at least two lateral positions being a center position relative to the lateral direction T of the utility trailer 100 (at Figure 3 The transverse direction T is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L of the trailer 100. The longitudinal direction L (as shown in FIG. Figure 7 100) are arranged in the main travel direction of the utility trailer 100. Each removable seat 100 can be formed from a variety of materials, such as textiles with natural and / or plastic fibers. In addition, each removable seat 200 can be provided with padding and / or structural reinforcements to increase passenger comfort.

[0062] like Figure 1 As shown, the removable seat 200 may include a safety belt 202 that is attached to the seat 200 and thus follows the seat when it is removed or attached to the trailer 100. The safety belt 202 may further be connectable to a buckle 110 that in turn is connected to the trailer 100.

[0063] exist Figure 2 , a utility trailer 100 is shown in a front view with a removable seat 200 removed. As shown, the utility trailer 100 may include at least one upper seat attachment 112 and at least one lower seat attachment 114, to which the removable seat 200 is configured to be fixed. The upper seat attachment 112 and / or the lower seat attachment 114 may be arranged in the sheet element 104, thereby being indirectly connected to the chassis 102 of the trailer 100 via the sheet element 104. However, it is also possible to provide each of the upper seat attachment 112 and / or the lower seat attachment 114 directly connected to the chassis 102 of the trailer 100. Each upper seat attachment 112 and the lower seat attachment 114 is configured to be connected to a corresponding connector 212, 214 (e.g., a connector 212, 214) located on the removable seat 200. Figures 5 to 8 The connection between each removable seat 200 and the utility trailer 100 must be able to withstand the forces generated by a pull of at least 1500N applied to the seat belt in the forward direction. This pull thus simulates a sudden deceleration / impact and the forces generated by the occupants of the utility trailer 100 during deceleration. This applies to all embodiments disclosed herein.

[0064] Each pair of upper seat accessories 112 can be arranged so that the distance D1 between two adjacent pairs of upper seat accessories 112 is substantially the same as the distance D6 between each upper seat accessory 112 in each pair. Therefore, the removable seat 200 can be connected between two adjacent pairs of upper seat accessories 112 and can be aligned with each pair of upper seat accessories 112.

[0065] Each pair of lower seat accessories 114 can be arranged so that the distance D2 between two adjacent pairs of lower seat accessories 114 is substantially the same as the distance D7 between each lower seat accessory 114 in each pair. Therefore, the removable seat 200 can be connected between two adjacent pairs of lower seat accessories 114 and can be aligned with each pair of lower seat accessories 114.

[0066] In the transverse direction T of the trailer 100, each upper seat attachment 112 can be aligned with the corresponding lower seat attachment 114. The transverse direction T is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L of the trailer 100. Figure 7 As shown) is arranged in the traveling direction of the utility trailer 100.

[0067] like Figure 2 As further shown in FIG. 1 , the utility trailer 100 may further include a plurality of straps 108. Each strap 108 may be made of a textile material and / or in the form of a webbing. Each strap 108 is configured to be secured to a buckle 110 (eg, Figure 1 ) for connecting to the safety belt 202 of the removable seat 200. The plurality of straps 108 are arranged such that one strap 108 is located between every two upper seat attachments 112 and / or lower seat attachments 114 in the transverse direction T of the trailer. One strap 108 may be arranged centrally in the middle of the trailer 100 in the transverse direction T. One strap 108 may be arranged centrally in the middle of the respective backrest portion 116a, 116b of the trailer 100 in the transverse direction T.

[0068] Each strap 108 may be attached to the lamina element 104 and / or to the chassis 102 of the trailer 100. In one embodiment, the straps 108 are connected to both the lamina element 104 and the chassis 102 of the trailer 100.

[0069] Each removable seat 100 may include an opening 204 through its seat portion 208 (at Figure 1 ), wherein each strip 208 is configured to extend through the opening 204, thereby allowing the seat belt 202 of the removable seat 200 to be connected to the chassis 102 and / or sheet member 104 of the trailer 100.

[0070] The utility trailer 100 may include reclining backrests 116a, 116b. In the case where the trailer 100 is a two-seater trailer, each backrest 116a, 116b may be capable of reclining individually. Each removable seat 200 is configured to follow the reclining of the backrests 116a, 116b.

[0071] Figure 3 A front view of a utility trailer 100 is disclosed, wherein the removable seat 100 is centrally arranged in the transverse direction T. The utility trailer 100 is a two-seater side-by-side utility trailer 100, however when only one passenger is to travel in the trailer, it is desirable to be able to centrally arrange the seat 200. This allows the center of gravity to be arranged towards the center of the trailer 100 and thus reduces the risk of the trailer 100 tipping to the sides when subjected to high lateral forces, as is the case when making sudden and high-speed tight turns.

[0072] Figure 4 A front view of a removable seat 200 is disclosed, the removable seat 200 comprising a seat portion 208, a back portion 206, and may further comprise a safety belt 202 attached to the back portion 206. The safety belt 202 may be adjustable relative to the back portion 206, for example, so that its height may be varied to accommodate passengers of different heights. Additionally, as mentioned above, the removable seat 200 may comprise a through hole 204 in the seat portion 208, the through hole being configured to receive the strap 108 of the trailer 100.

[0073] exist Figure 5 A rear view of the back portion 206 of the removable seat 200 is shown in FIG. Figure 5 As illustrated, the removable seat 200 may include at least one upper connector 212 and at least one lower connector 214 , each connector 212 , 214 being configured to connect to a respective upper seat accessory 112 and lower seat accessory 114 .

[0074] Each connector 212, 214 can be formed by a metal or plastic member, and each connector 212, 214 is attached to the removable seat 200 by a webbing 210. The webbing 210 can be a textile webbing, or can be made of another material that provides sufficient tensile strength. The webbing 210 can be sewn to the removable seat 200, or can be attached to the seat in other ways. Each connector 212, 214 can be arranged at the distal end of the corresponding webbing 210, and the distal end can be interpreted as the farthest from the center of the back portion 206 of the removable seat 200.

[0075] like Figure 6 As shown, the webbing 210 may form a connection between the upper connector 212 and the lower connector 214 , thereby isolating the material of the removable seat 200 from forces generated by the interaction of the connectors 212 , 214 with the seat accessories 112 , 114 on the trailer 100 .

[0076] Preferably, two upper connectors 212 are provided for each removable seat 200 , which are spaced a distance D3 from each other. The distance D3 preferably corresponds to the distance D6 between each two upper seat attachments 112 and / or the distance D1 between each pair of upper seat attachments 112 .

[0077] Preferably, two lower connectors 214 are provided for each removable seat 200 , which are at a distance D4 from each other. The distance D4 preferably corresponds to the distance D7 between each two lower seat attachments 114 and / or the distance D2 between each pair of lower seat attachments 114 .

[0078] Figure 7 A rear view of the back portion 206 of the removable seat 200 is shown. As illustrated, the removable seat 200 may include at least one upper connector 212 and at least one lower connector 214, each connector 212, 214 being configured to connect to a corresponding upper seat attachment 112 and lower seat attachment 114. Each connector 212, 214 may be formed of a metal member or a plastic member. Figure 7 As shown, at least one upper connector 212 and / or at least one lower connector 214 may include an attachment opening 216 configured to allow the fixing portion 124 of the corresponding upper seat accessory 112 and / or lower seat accessory 114 to be inserted therein, such as Figures 14 to 18 shown.

[0079] Each of the upper connector 212 and the lower connector 214 may be provided with Figure 7Attachment openings 216 are shown. Each attachment opening 216 may be formed as a slot extending perpendicularly relative to the longitudinal extension of the webbing 210 that attaches the connectors 212 , 214 to the removable seat 200 .

[0080] Each connector 212, 214 can be formed by a metal member or a plastic member. The webbing 210 can be a textile webbing, or can be made of another material that provides sufficient tensile strength. The webbing 210 can be sewn to the removable seat 200, or can be attached to the seat in other ways. Each connector 212, 214 can be arranged at the distal end of the corresponding webbing 210, and the distal end can be interpreted as the farthest from the center of the back portion 206 of the removable seat 200.

[0081] Figure 8 Further shown is another embodiment having an upper connector 212 and a lower connector 214, as described above in conjunction with Figure 7 As described. Figure 8 As shown, the webbing 210 may form a connection between the upper connector 212 and the lower connector 214 , thereby isolating the material of the removable seat 200 from forces generated by the interaction of the connectors 212 , 214 with the seat accessories 112 , 114 on the trailer 100 .

[0082] It is preferred to provide two upper connectors 212 for each removable seat 200, which are arranged at a distance D3 from each other. The distance D3 preferably corresponds to the distance D6 between each two upper seat accessories 112 and / or the distance D1 between each pair of upper seat accessories 112.

[0083] Preferably, two lower connectors 214 are provided for each removable seat 200 , which are at a distance D4 from each other. The distance D4 preferably corresponds to the distance D7 between each two lower seat attachments 114 and / or the distance D2 between each pair of lower seat attachments 114 .

[0084] Go to Fig. 9 , which shows a side view of a utility trailer 100, wherein an extension of a removable seat 200 is schematically illustrated and superimposed. As shown, a back portion 206 of the removable seat 200 is held taut by an upper seat attachment 112 and a lower seat attachment 114. The seat portion 208 of the removable seat 200 can be secured by straps 108 (e.g., Figure 2 as shown) and / or for example by Or magnetic fasteners hold in place.

[0085] Fig.10 and Fig.11A side view of a utility trailer 100 is disclosed, the utility trailer being foldable, wherein a chassis 102 can be Fig.10 Display usage status and Fig.11 The trailer 100 is shown folded between folded states. A folded state should be interpreted as any folded state of the chassis 102 when not in its use state.

[0086] like Fig.10 and Fig.11 As shown, the distance D5 between the at least one upper seat attachment 112 and the at least one lower seat attachment 114 can be configured to vary depending on the folded state of the chassis 102. The distance D5 between the at least one upper seat attachment 112 and the at least one lower seat attachment 114 is preferably greater in the use state than in the folded state of the trailer 102, and thus can be configured so that the upper seat attachment 112 and the lower seat attachment 114 provide tension to the back portion 206 of the removable seat 200 for proper orientation and so that the removable seat 200 cannot be released from the trailer 100 when the trailer 100 is in the use state. Therefore, when the trailer 100 is in the deployed / use state, the distance D5 can be at least equal to, and preferably greater than, the corresponding distance between the upper connector 212 and the lower connector 214.

[0087] In addition, when the trailer 200 is in the folded state, the connection of the upper connector 212 and the lower connector 214 with the corresponding upper seat attachment 112 and the lower seat attachment 114 is facilitated, thereby reducing the distance D5. Once the removable seat 200 is attached, the trailer 200 is brought into the use state, thereby further fixing the removable seat 200.

[0088] like Fig.10 and Fig.11 As further shown in FIG. 1 , the utility trailer 100 may include a folding hinge 118 arranged between at least one upper seat attachment and at least one lower seat attachment. The folding hinge 118 on the chassis 102 is provided to allow the distance D5 to be changed between the use state and the folded state of the trailer 100. The folding hinge 118 may be arranged as shown on an upright chassis element extending along the rear of the trailer 100, which folds in the longitudinal direction L towards the center of the trailer 100, thereby reducing the distance D5 between the upper seat attachment 112 and the lower seat attachment 114.

[0089] Fig.12 and Fig.13 Embodiments of the connectors 212 , 214 are shown in the process of being attached / removed and in corresponding detail views as they are attached to corresponding embodiments of the seat accessories 212 , 214 , respectively. Fig.10 and Fig.11The embodiment shown in FIG. 1 is applicable to both the upper and lower connectors 212 , 214 and the upper and lower seat accessories 112 , 114 .

[0090] As illustrated, each seat attachment 112, 114 may include a first opening 120 and a second opening 122 through which a corresponding connector 212, 214 of the removable seat 200 is configured to pass. The seat attachment 112, 114 may be formed from a strip of suitable material attached to the trailer 100 at opposite ends thereof, while a center portion is free, thereby forming the first opening 120 and the second opening 122. The seat attachment 112, 114 may be formed from a textile material such as webbing.

[0091] The first opening 120 may be larger than the second opening 122, and the first opening 120 on at least one upper attachment 112 and / or the first opening 120 on at least one lower attachment 114 may be arranged facing the proximal direction relative to the trailer 100. The aforementioned proximal end should be interpreted as toward the center of the backrest portions 116a, 116b. In other words, the first opening 120 on each upper seat attachment 112 may be arranged facing the corresponding lower seat attachment 114. The first opening 120 being larger than the second opening 122 facilitates attaching the connectors 212, 214 to the seat attachments 112, 114.

[0092] The first opening 120 defines an insertion direction of the connector 212 , 214 , and during attachment of the connector 212 , 214 to the seat accessory 112 , 114 , the connector is first passed through the first opening 120 and secondly through the second opening 122 .

[0093] exist Fig.13 As further shown in FIG. 1 , the width W1 of the second opening 122 of each seat accessory 112, 114 may be smaller than the width W2 of the corresponding connector 112, 114. The ratio between the width W1 and the width W2 may be between 0.3 and 0.8.

[0094] Fig.14A detailed view of a seat accessory 112, 114 according to one embodiment is shown. As illustrated, the seat accessory 112, 114 may include a fixing portion 124. As mentioned, the fixing portion 124 is configured to be inserted through the attachment opening 216 of the corresponding connector 212, 214. The fixing portion 124 may be connected to the sheet element 104 and / or the chassis 102 of the utility trailer 100 via a rod portion 122, which is configured to allow flexibility in the relative orientation of the fixing portion 124 and the sheet element 106 and / or the chassis 102. The flexibility in relative orientation facilitates attaching each connector 212, 214 to each corresponding seat accessory 112, 114. The fixing portion 124 is configured to be arranged so that the rear side 126o faces the connector 212, 214 when the connector 212, 214 is attached to the seat accessory 112, 114. The rear side 126 of each fixing portion 124 further faces towards the rod portion 122 and towards the lamina element 104 .

[0095] The fixing portion 124 and the rod portion 122 together form a substantially T-shaped seat attachment 212 , 214 .

[0096] The stem portion 122 may extend through the sheet element 106 and form a loop around a portion of the chassis 102 and / or may be secured to the chassis by other means.

[0097] The fixing portion 124 is configured to be sufficiently rigid to reduce the risk of being folded or otherwise collapsed when the seat 200 exerts tension on one or more of the associated seat accessories 112, 114. Thus, the risk of the fixing portion 124 being pulled through the attachment opening 116 in the connector 212, 214 can be reduced.

[0098] The fixing portion 124 may be made of a textile material, a plastic material, a composite material, and / or a metal material. The fixing portion 124 may be made of a different material than the rod portion 122. In one embodiment, the fixing portion 124 is made of a plastic material and is fixed to the rod portion 122 by molding the plastic material of the fixing portion 124 around the rod portion 122.

[0099] Furthermore, the stem portion 122 may be secured to the securing portion 124 by forming a loop in the stem portion 122 that extends through a corresponding opening (not shown) and surrounds a rib (not shown) formed by the opening in the securing portion 124 .

[0100] Thus, the securing portion 124 may be formed of a homogenous material having sufficient tensile strength for providing a secure connection between each connector 212 , 214 and each corresponding seat accessory 112 , 114 .

[0101] The stem portion 122 is preferably formed of a textile material such as a webbing or another high strength woven textile material. It is also contemplated that the stem portion 122 may be formed of a rubber material or a plastic material, for example.

[0102] Fig.15 An embodiment is shown in which the fixing portion 124 and the rod portion 122 are formed of the same material. The fixing portion 124 is formed by folding the material of the rod portion 122. The rod portion 122 may be folded at least once to form the fixing portion. Fig.15 In the embodiment shown in , the rod portion 122 is folded three times so that the rod portion 122 is centrally attached to the fixing portion 124, so that at least two material layers 134, 136, 138 are superimposed on each other in the fixing portion 124. Therefore, the fixing portion 124 will be provided with rigidity to reduce the risk of it being folded and accidentally pulled through the attachment opening 116 of the connector 112, 114. In addition, by the layering of materials in the fixing portion 124, the fixing portion is provided with a width D8 (such as Fig.17 116) so that the securing portion is not pulled through the attachment opening 116 when folded, as would be caused by its attachment to the rod portion 122 when the attached connectors 212, 214 are subjected to tension.

[0103] like Fig.15 As shown, a first layer 134 arranged farthest from the rod portion 122 may be provided. A second layer 138 forming a layer closest to the rod portion 122 may be provided. At least one intermediate layer 136 may further be provided. Fig.15 In the embodiment shown in , an intermediate layer 136 is provided, but it should be appreciated that more than one intermediate layer 136 may be provided. Each layer 134, 136, 138 is preferably formed by folding the material of the stem portion 122 to form the fixing portion 124.

[0104] Preferably, the layers 134, 136, 138 forming the fixing portion 124 are sewn to each other at least around the edges and / or adjacent to and parallel to the first fold 132 using a stitching line 130. The stitching line 130 parallel to the first fold 132 defines the position of the first fold 132 and can therefore preferably be arranged substantially in the middle of the fixing portion 124.

[0105] Peripheral stitching 130a may be provided to secure the edges of each layer of the fixing portion 124 to each other. In addition, a central stitching 130b may be provided to define the location of the first fold 132. The central stitching 130b is parallel to the first fold 132 and extends from the first layer 134 of the fixing portion 124 to the second layer 138 facing the rod portion 122.

[0106] Combination Fig.15 The described sutures 130, 130a, 130b are also applicable to Fig.14 and Fig.16 implementation plan.

[0107] Fig.16 An embodiment of a seat accessory 112, 114 is disclosed, wherein the fixing portion 124 thereof includes a reinforcing element 128. The reinforcing element 128 is formed of a material that is more rigid and has a higher strength than the material of the fixing portion 124. Therefore, the strength of the fixing portion 124 can be improved without having to replace the entire material thereof. Each of the layers 134, 136, 138 of the fixing portion 124 can be made of the same material as the rod portion 122, wherein the rod portion 122 needs to have a certain flexibility to facilitate the movement of the fixing portion 124 during the attachment of the associated connector 112, 124. Therefore, the material of the rod portion 122 and the material of the layers 134, 136, 138 of the fixing portion can be optimized for the properties required of the rod portion 122 (i.e., high tensile strength and flexibility). At the same time, the reinforcing element 128 helps to provide the fixing portion 124 with the desired properties. This further reduces the risk of the seat 200 accidentally falling off the seat accessories 112, 114, while facilitating manufacturing and reducing the manufacturing cost of the seat accessories 112, 114.

[0108] The reinforcing element 128 may be formed of any suitable material having a higher rigidity than the material in the fixing portion 124. Preferably, the reinforcing element 128 is formed of a plastic material. The reinforcing element 128 may be a recycled and / or renewable material, such as a bioplastic. The reinforcing element 128 may be formed of polypropylene (PP) plastic.

[0109] The reinforcing element 128 may have a thickness between 0.5 mm and 2.5 mm, preferably about 1 mm.

[0110] Fig.17 A front detail view of the connectors 212, 214 is disclosed. Fig.17 The connectors 212, 214 shown in FIG. Figure 7 and Figure 8 214. Each connector 212, 214 includes an attachment opening 216. The attachment opening 216 is configured to allow the fixing portion 124 to be inserted therein, so that each connector 212, 214 can be screwed on the corresponding fixing portion 124.

[0111] As mentioned the attachment opening 216 has a width D8, the width direction being defined as the longitudinal direction of the associated webbing 210. The webbing 210 is preferably attached to each connector 212, 214 through a separate opening therein.

[0112] Fig.18 A perspective view of the connectors 212, 214 when attached to the seat accessories 112, 114 is disclosed. When the connectors 212, 214 are subjected to a pulling force from the seat 200 in the direction of the webbing 210, the fixing portions 112, 114 prevent the connectors 212, 214 from being released from the corresponding seat accessories 112, 114 by engaging with the connectors 212, 214.

[0113] In an embodiment, as combined Fig.10 and Fig.11 As described, the connectors 212, 214 and the respective seat accessories 112, 114 may be arranged in a secured state such that during use of the trailer 100, each connector 212, 214 is in contact with or arranged adjacent to the respective seat accessories 112, 114. This reduces the risk of the connectors 212, 214 being inadvertently released from the seat accessories 112, 114, as the distance for relative acceleration / deceleration, which would otherwise allow high impact forces to be generated, is reduced or even eliminated. In the event that there is too much slack in the seat 200, a sudden deceleration of the trailer 100 will give the seat 200 time to decelerate relative to the trailer 100, such that when the connectors 212, 214 come into contact with the seat accessories 112, 114, the forces become too high and there is a risk of the connection between the seat 200 and the trailer 100 becoming disengaged or failing. It will also be appreciated that the secured state may include providing a pre-tensioning force to the seat 200 by increasing the distance D5, as mentioned above.

[0114] Fig.19 A schematic flow chart of a method 1000 for securing a removable seat 200 to a utility trailer 100 is disclosed. The utility trailer 100 includes:

[0115] a chassis 102 which forms the load-bearing structure of the trailer 100,

[0116] a sheet element 104, which is supported by the chassis 102,

[0117] The utility trailer 100 includes at least one upper seat attachment 112 and at least one lower seat attachment 114, and the removable seat 200 is configured to be fixed to the at least one upper seat attachment and the at least one lower seat attachment. The method 1000 includes the following steps:

[0118] The utility trailer 100 is set 1002 to be in a seat-attached state. The seat-attached state may correspond to the state described in detail above and in Fig. 9 In the folded state shown in FIG. 1 , the chassis 102

[0119] Thus, method 1000 may include at least partially folding chassis 102 of utility trailer 100 .

[0120] The method 1000 also includes attaching 1004 at least one removable seat 200 to at least one upper seat accessory 112 and at least one lower seat accessory 114. Attaching 1004 the at least one removable seat 200 may include passing at least one upper connector 212 on the removable seat 200 through a corresponding upper seat accessory 112, and passing at least one lower connector 214 on the removable seat 200 through a corresponding lower seat accessory 114.

[0121] About at least Figures 14 to 18 , attaching 1004 the at least one removable seat 200 may alternatively include threading at least one upper seat accessory 112 through a corresponding connector 212 , and threading at least one lower seat accessory 114 through a corresponding lower connector 214 .

[0122] The method 1000 further includes placing 1006 the utility trailer 100 in a removable seat securing state, thereby securing at least one removable seat 200 to the utility trailer 200. Figure 8 As shown, setting 1006 the utility trailer 100 in the removable seat securing state may include at least partially deploying the chassis 102 to a use state of the utility trailer 100. Setting 1006 the utility trailer 100 in the removable seat securing state may include increasing a distance D5 between the at least one upper seat attachment 112 and the at least one lower seat attachment 114 such that a pre-tensioning force is applied to the at least one removable seat 200. Figure 8 As shown, positioning 1006 the utility trailer 100 in the secured state of the removable seats may include moving the folding hinge 118 from the at least partially folded position to the deployed position.

[0123] It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and shown in the accompanying drawings; on the contrary, those skilled in the art will recognize that many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A multi-purpose trailer (100) for carrying at least one person, wherein: The trailer (100) comprises: a chassis (102), said chassis forming a load-bearing structure of said utility trailer (100), a sheet element (104) supported by the chassis (102), A removable seat (200), wherein the utility trailer (100) is constructed for attaching the removable seat (200) in at least two lateral positions, one of the at least two lateral positions being a center position relative to a lateral direction (T) of the utility trailer (100).

2. The utility trailer (100) according to claim 1, wherein: The utility trailer (100) includes at least one upper seat attachment (112) and at least one lower seat attachment (114), and the removable seat (200) is configured to be secured to the at least one upper seat attachment and the at least one lower seat attachment.

3. The utility trailer (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The utility trailer (100) includes at least one upper seat attachment (112) and at least one lower seat attachment (114), the removable seat (200) being configured to be fixed to the at least one upper seat attachment and the at least one lower seat attachment, wherein a distance (D5) between the at least one upper seat attachment (112) and the at least one lower seat attachment (114) varies depending on a folded state of the chassis (102).

4. The utility trailer (100) according to claim 3, wherein: The distance (D5) between the at least one upper seat attachment (112) and the at least one lower seat attachment (114) is greater in the use state than in the folded state of the utility trailer (100).

5. The utility trailer (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The utility trailer (100) includes at least one upper seat attachment (112) and at least one lower seat attachment (114), the removable seat (200) being configured to be secured to the at least one upper seat attachment and the at least one lower seat attachment, and wherein the chassis (102) includes a folding hinge (118) disposed between the at least one upper seat attachment (112) and the at least one lower seat attachment (114).

6. The utility trailer (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The utility trailer (100) includes at least two pairs of upper seat accessories (112) and at least two pairs of lower seat accessories (114) aligned in the transverse direction (T) of the utility trailer (100), and the removable seat (200) is configured to be fixed to the at least two pairs of upper seat accessories and the at least two pairs of lower seat accessories.

7. The utility trailer (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein: The utility trailer (100) further comprises a plurality of straps (108) configured to be fixed to buckles (110) for connection to safety belts (202) of the removable seats (200), wherein one strap (108) is arranged in the middle between every two upper seat attachments (112) and / or lower seat attachments (114) in the transverse direction (T) of the trailer (100).

8. The utility trailer (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein: The removable seat (200) includes at least one upper connector (212) configured to attach to a corresponding upper seat accessory (112) and at least one lower connector (214) configured to attach to a corresponding lower seat accessory (114).

9. The utility trailer (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein: Each seat accessory (112, 114) includes a securing portion (124) configured to pass through an attachment opening (216) in a corresponding connector (212, 214).

10. The utility trailer (100) according to claim 9, wherein: Each seat attachment (112, 114) includes a rod portion (122) forming an attachment between the fixed portion (124) and the utility trailer (100), and wherein the fixed portion (124) is arranged at a certain angle relative to the rod portion.

11. The utility trailer (100) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein: The fixing portion (124) includes a reinforcing element (128) configured to increase the rigidity of the fixing portion (124).

12. The utility trailer (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The utility trailer (100) includes a reclining backrest (116a, 116b), and wherein the at least removable seat (200) is configured to follow the reclining of the backrest (116a, 116b).

13. A method (1000) for securing a removable seat (200) to a utility trailer (100), the utility trailer (100) comprising: a chassis (102), the chassis forming the load-bearing structure of the trailer (100), a sheet element (104) supported by the chassis (102), The utility trailer (100) includes at least one upper seat attachment (112) and at least one lower seat attachment (114), the removable seat (200) is configured to be secured to the at least one upper seat attachment and the at least one lower seat attachment, and the method (1000) includes the following steps: The utility trailer (100) is arranged (1002) to be in a seat-attached state, attaching (1004) the at least one removable seat (200) to at least one upper seat accessory (112) and at least one lower seat accessory (114), The utility trailer (100) is arranged (1006) in a fixed state of the removable seat (200), whereby the at least one removable seat (200) is fixed to the utility trailer (100).

14. The method (1000) of claim 13, wherein: Attaching (1004) the at least one removable seat (200) includes threading at least one seat accessory (112) through a corresponding upper connector (112) and threading at least one lower seat accessory (114) through a corresponding lower connector (214).

15. The method (1000) according to claim 13 or 14, wherein: Setting (1006) the utility trailer (100) in a seat-attached state includes at least partially folding the chassis (102) of the utility trailer (100), and wherein setting (1006) the utility trailer (100) in a removable seat (200) secured state includes at least partially unfolding the chassis (102) to a use state of the utility trailer (100).

Images