An indicator assembly for indicating that a trailer support device is in a supporting position beneath a trailer

Abstract

An assembly for indicating that a trailer support device is in a supporting position beneath a trailer is provided herein. The assembly comprises a blocking element that is movable between blocking and non-blocking positions for exposing an indicator element. The assembly also comprises an actuating frame with at least one engagement member, where the actuating frame is movable between a first position and a second position. The positioning of the actuating frame on the trailer support device is such that when the trailer support device is advanced beneath the frailer into the supporting position, the at least one engagement member abuts the frailer and drives the actuating frame from the first position to the second position. The blocking element is connected to the actuating frame such that the movement of the actuating frame from the first position to the second position drives the blocking element towards the non-blocking position.

Description

AN INDICATOR ASSEMBLY FOR INDICATING THAT A TRAILER SUPPORT DEVICE IS IN ASUPPORTING POSITION BENEATH A TRAILERField of the Disclosure

[0001] The present disclosure relates to trailer support devices for semi-trailers. In particular, the present disclosure relates to an indicator assembly for indicating that a trailer support device is in a supporting position beneath a trailer.Background of the Disclosure

[0002] When a freight semi-trailer is set down on its landing gear, the semi-trailer can be left freestanding, i.e., without a mechanical connection between the kingpin of the trailer and the shunt truck. Associated pneumatic and electrical connections between the truck and trailer are disconnected so that the brakes of the freight trailer are locked. The landing gear is lowered, the truck is driven off and the trailer is left freestanding, for example, adjacent to a dock opening, supported at the front end using only the trailer's landing gear.

[0003] Freestanding trailer stability is affected by a complex relationship involving the number of axles, trailer weight, landing gear placement, weight and placement of cargo, weight and position of forklift, and more. Furthermore, landing gear on trailers are not required to be inspected on a daily basis. If there are any cracks or potential failures in a landing gear, workers may not be aware of it. Transport trailers present a critical safety risk due to the weight of cargo and forklifts. When the truck disengages from the frailer, this creates at least two potential risks unless a secondary support system is utilized, the first potential risk being the collapse of the trailer’s landing gear and the second potential risk being the upending of the frailer and the frailer tipping over.

[0004] In addition to the weight of the cargo and forklift inside the trailer, when loading and unloading cargo from a freestanding freight frailer, the movement of the forklifts and cargo along the floor of the semi-trailer causes the semi-trailer to move . Significant movement can result in the frailer separating from the dock or possibly upending and tipping over. Damaged or faulty landing gear of the freight frailer may not be able to accommodate the weight of the trailer, especially when loaded, let alone the dynamic forces generated by a forklift and cargo moving through the frailer. In addition, the high center of gravity associated with most trailers makes the likelihood of the frailer upending and tipping over a real possibility. Collapse of the landing gear and / or tipping over of the frailer can result in damage to any goods within the frailer, the frailer itself, and the forklift, as well as injury to, or death of, the operator of the forklift and / or personnel around the frailer.

[0005] Some current frailer support devices are manually or shuntably positionable and require an operator to one or more of, position the trailer support device underneath the frailer, make positioning and / or height adjustments to the frailer support device while the frailer support device is underneath the frailer, and withdraw the frailer support device from underneath trailer. This may leave the operator in a vulnerable position underneath or around the semi-trailer.

[0006] There is a need for a system that can be integrated with a frailer support device, and which can detect when the frailer support device has been placed in a suitable supporting position underneath the trailer such that the frailer support device can support the frailer in the event of landing gear failure to prevent frailer collapse and / or upending of the trailer to prevent the frailer from tipping over.Summary of the Disclosure

[0007] According to an aspect, there is provided an assembly for indicating that a frailer support device is in a supporting position beneath a frailer, the frailer support device comprising at least one frailer support element for supporting the frailer such that the supporting position of the trailer support device is a position where the at least one frailer support element is beneath the frailer, the assembly comprising: a blocking element that is movably connected to the frailer support device for moving between a blocking position and a non -blocking position where an indicator element is exposed, an actuating frame that comprises at least one engagement member, the actuating frame being movablyconnected to the trailer support device for moving between an unactuated position where the at least one engagement member is disposed at a first position relative to the at least one trailer support element, and an actuated position where the at least one engagement member is disposed at a second position relative to the at least one trailer support element, wherein the actuating frame is positioned on the frailer support device such that when the at least one frailer support element of the frailer support device is advanced beneath the frailer into the supporting position, the at least one engagement member abuts the trailer and drives the actuating frame from the unactuated position towards the actuated position, and wherein the blocking element is operably connected to the actuating frame such that as the actuating frame is driven from the unactuated position towards the actuated position, the blocking element is driven from the blocking position to the non-blocking position.

[0008] In an embodiment, the second position is longitudinally more rearward than the first position.

[0009] In an embodiment, the indicator element is structured for conveying to at least one external sensing system that the frailer support device is in the supporting position beneath the trailer.

[0010] In an embodiment, the at least one external sensing system is configured to sense whether the frailer support device is properly in the supporting position beneath the frailer.

[0011] In an embodiment, the at least one external sensing system is configured to send feedback regarding whether the frailer support device is properly in the supporting position.

[0012] In an embodiment, the indicator element comprises at least one reflective surface, and the at least one reflective surface is connected on the assembly.

[0013] In an embodiment, the external sensing system is configured to detect the exposed at least one reflective surface when the blocking element is driven from the blocking position to the non-blocking position.

[0014] In an embodiment, the at least one frailer support element on the trailer support device has a front leading edge that defines a vertical plane, and the actuating frame is positioned on the frailer support device such when the at least one engagement member is in the first position, the at least one engagement member is disposed forward of the vertical plane defined by the front leading edge of the at least one frailer support element.

[0015] In an embodiment, the actuating frame is positioned on the frailer support device such when the at least one engagement member is in the second position, the at least one engagement element is disposed rearward of the vertical plane defined by the front leading edge of the at least one frailer support element.

[0016] In an embodiment, the at least one frailer support element is in the form of a substantially horizontal bar.

[0017] In an embodiment, the at least one frailer support element is in the form of a step comprising a tread and a riser.

[0018] In an embodiment, the tread extends forward from the riser and the tread defines the at least one frailer support element.

[0019] In an embodiment, the at least one frailer support element is a plurality of trailer support elements.

[0020] In an embodiment, the plurality of frailer support elements is in the form of at least one stepped support assembly comprising a plurality of vertically-oriented steps, each step comprising a tread and a riser.

[0021] In an embodiment, the at least one stepped support assembly comprises at least two vertically-oriented steps, each step comprising a tread and a riser.

[0022] In an embodiment, the frailer support device has at least one stepped support assembly with at least one riser and at least one tread that extends forward from the at least one riser, the at least one tread defines the at least one frailer support element, and the actuating frame is positioned on the frailer support device such that when the at least one engagement member is in the first position, at least part of the at least one engagement member is disposed forward of the at least one riser.

[0023] In an embodiment, the at least one frailer support element is a plurality of frailer support elements, the at least one riser is a plurality of risers and the at least one tread is a plurality of treads corresponding to the plurality of risers, the plurality of treads define the plurality of frailer support elements.

[0024] In an embodiment, the at least one engagement member is a single engagement member, and the actuating frame is positioned on the trailer support device such that the single engagement member is positioned along the depth of one tread of the plurality of treads.

[0025] In an embodiment, the at least one engagement member is a plurality of engagement members, and each engagement member of the plurality of engagement members corresponds to a unique trailer support element of the plurality of trailer support elements.

[0026] In an embodiment, the plurality of engagement members are positioned on the actuating frame such that each engagement member of plurality of engagement extends to a height that is greater than a height of the corresponding trailer support element of the plurality of trailer support areas.

[0027] In an embodiment, the actuating frame is positioned on the trailer support device such that when the trailer support device is advanced beneath the trailer into the supporting position with at least one trailer support element of the plurality of trailer support elements positioned beneath the trailer, an engagement member that corresponds to the at least one trailer support element abuts the trailer for driving the actuating frame from the unactuated position to the actuated position.

[0028] In an embodiment, the plurality of engagement members are evenly spaced apart on the actuating frame and are substantially identical.

[0029] In an embodiment, the assembly farther comprises a base that is connected to the trailer support device, and the actuator frame is movably connected to the base for moving thereabout between the unactuated and actuated positions.

[0030] In an embodiment, the blocking element is movably connected to the base for moving thereabout between the blocking and nonblocking positions.

[0031] In an embodiment, the base farther comprises at least one securing element for releasably mounting the base to the trailer support device.

[0032] In an embodiment, farther comprising at least one biasing element that is connected between the actuating frame and the base for biasing the actuating frame towards the unactuated position.

[0033] In an embodiment, the actuating frame comprises a four-bar linkage that is pivotably connected to the trailer support device.

[0034] In an embodiment, the four-bar linkage comprises a primary linkage, the at least one engagement member is connected to the primary linkage, and the four-bar linkage is pivotably connected to the frailer support device such that in the unactuated position, the primary linkage is in a first longitudinal position about the base, and in the actuated position, the primary linkage is in second longitudinal position about the base that is longitudinally rearward of the first longitudinal position.

[0035] In an embodiment, the four-bar linkage farther comprises front and rear linkages that are each pivotably connected between the primary linkage and the base, and a connection linkage that is connected between one of the front and rear pivoting linkages and the blocking element for operably connecting the actuating frame to the blocking element.

[0036] In an embodiment, a first section of the primary linkage is pivotably connected to the front pivoting linkage and a second section of the primary linkage is pivotably connected to the rear pivoting linkage, and the front pivoting linkage and rear pivoting linkage are each pivotably connected to the base such that the front and rear pivoting linkages pivot about the base as the actuating frame is driven between the unactuated and actuated positions.

[0037] In an embodiment, the blocking element is pivotably connected to the base frame for pivoting thereabout between the blocking and unblocking positions.

[0038] In an embodiment, the connection linkage is connected to the blocking element such that as the actuating frame moves from the unactuated position to the actuated position, the connection element drives the blocking element to pivot about the base element from the blocking position towards the non-blocking position.

[0039] In an embodiment, the pivoting connection of the blocking element on the base defines a primary pivot axis of the blocking element, and the actuating frame is pivotably connected to the blocking element at a connection point that is offset from the primary pivot axis suchthat when the blocking element is in the non-blocking position and the trailer support device is moved out of the supporting position, a magnitude of a first moment about the first pivot axis of the blocking element due to the weight of the blocking element is greater than a magnitude of a second moment about the primary pivot axis due to a weight of the actuating frame applied at the connection point, and the magnitude of the first moment is sufficiently greater than the magnitude of the second moment such that the blocking element is biased towards the blocking position.

[0040] In an embodiment, the blocking element comprises a control arm that is pivotably connected to the base for pivoting thereabout as the blocking element is driven between the blocking and non-blocking positions, and a flap element that is connected to the control arm and that is sized and / or shaped to substantially cover and substantially block the indicator element when the blocking element is in the blocking position.

[0041] In an embodiment, the control arm is pivotably connected to the base such that in the blocking position, the flap element is substantially vertical.

[0042] In an embodiment, the at least one stepped support assembly is a pair of stepped support assemblies that are disposed on opposing lateral sides of the trailer support device, and the base plate is structured to be connectable substantially along a centerline of the trailer support device for positioning the at least one engagement member substantially at an equidistance between the pair of stepped support assemblies such that as the trailer support device is advanced into the supporting position under the trailer, the trailer only engage the at least one engagement member if the trailer support device is advanced under the trailer, substantially along the centerline of the trailer support device.

[0043] According to another aspect, there is provided a system for determining that a trailer support device is in a supporting position beneath a trailer, the trailer support device comprising at least one trailer support element for supporting the trailer in the event of a failure of landing gear of the trailer or tipping of the trailer such that the supporting position of the trailer support device is a position where the at least one trailer support element is beneath the trailer, the assembly comprising: a blocking element that is movably connected to the trailer support device for moving between a blocking position and a non-blocking position where an indicator element is exposed, an actuating frame that comprises at least one engagement member, the actuating frame being movably connected to the trailer support device for moving between an unactuated position where the at least one engagement member is disposed at a first position relative to the at least one trailer support element, and an actuated position where the at least one engagement member is disposed at a second position relative to the at least one trailer support element, and an external sensing system that is separate from the trailer support device and that is configured to detect the exposed assembly for determining that the trailer support device is in the supporting position beneath the trailer, wherein the actuating frame is positioned on the trailer support device such that when the at least one trailer support element of the trailer support device is advanced beneath the trailer into the supporting position, the at least one engagement member abuts the trailer and drives the actuating frame from the unactuated position towards the actuated position, and wherein the blocking element is operably connected to the actuating frame such that as the actuating frame is driven from the unactuated position towards the actuated position, the blocking element is driven from the blocking position to the non-blocking position.

[0044] In an embodiment, the second position is longitudinally more rearward than the first position.

[0045] In an embodiment, the indicator element is structured for conveying to at least one external sensing system that the trailer support device is in the supporting position beneath the trailer.

[0046] In an embodiment, the at least one external sensing system is configured to sense whether the trailer support device is properly in the supporting position beneath the trailer.

[0047] In an embodiment, the at least one external sensing system is configured to send feedback regarding whether the trailer support device is properly in the supporting position.

[0048] In an embodiment, the indicator element comprises at least one reflective surface on the assembly and / or the trailer support device.

[0049] In an embodiment, the external sensing system is configured to detect the exposed at least one reflective surface when the blocking assembly is driven from the blocking position to the non-blocking position.

[0050] According to another aspect, there is provided a method of indicating whether or not a trailer support device is in a supporting position beneath a trailer, the trailer support device being in the supporting position when at least one supporting surface of the trailer support device is positioned beneath the trailer and is capable of supporting the trailer in the event of landing gear failure or upending of the trailer, the method comprising: providing an indicator assembly comprising an indicator element and a blocking element, the blocking element being movably connected to the indicator element for moving between a blocking position where the indicator element is concealed by the blocking element and a non-blocking position where the indicator element is not concealed by the blocking element and the indicator element is exposed; and an actuating assembly operatively connected to the indicator assembly, the actuating assembly comprising at least one engagement member movably connected to the trailer support device for moving between an unactuated position where the at least one engagement member is disposed at a first position relative to the at least one supporting surface, and an actuated position where the at least one engagement member is disposed at a second position that is different from the first position relative to the at least one supporting surface, wherein the actuating assembly is positioned on the trailer support device such that when the at least one supporting surface is advanced beneath the trailer into the supporting position, the at least one engagement member abuts the trailer and the at least one engagement member is driven from the unactuated position towards the actuated position due to the contact of the at least one engagement member with the trailer and wherein the blocking element is operably connected to the actuating assembly such that as the at least one engagement member is driven from the unactuated position towards the actuated position, the blocking element is driven from the blocking position to the non-blocking position for exposing the indicator element, wherein exposing the indicator element is indicative of the trailer support device being in the supporting position.

[0051] In an embodiment, the indicator element is structured for conveying to at least one sensing system that the trailer support device is in the supporting position beneath the trailer.

[0052] In an embodiment, the at least one sensing system is configured to sense whether the trailer support device is properly in the supporting position beneath the trailer.

[0053] In an embodiment, the at least one sensing system is configured to detect the indicator element when the trailer support device is in the supporting position and the indicator element is exposed.

[0054] In an embodiment, when the indicator element is exposed, it indicates that the trailer support device is positioned underneath the trailer in a supporting position and is capable of supporting the trailer.

[0055] In an embodiment, the concealment or exposure of the indicator element indicates whether the trailer support device is positioned between the underside of the forward portion of the parked semi-trailer and the ground in a supporting position; access to the bed is allowed if the indicator element is exposed and indicates that the trailer support device is between the underside of the forward portion of the parked semi-trailer and the ground in a supporting position; and access to the bed is prohibited if the indicator element is concealed and indicates that the trailer support device is not positioned between the underside of the forward portion of the parked semi-trailer and the ground in a supporting position.

[0056] In an embodiment, the at least one sensing system is configured to sense whether the trailer support device is properly in the supporting position.

[0057] In an embodiment, the at least one sensing system is configured to send feedback regarding whether the trailer support device is properly in the supporting position.

[0058] In an embodiment, the indicator element comprises at least one reflective surface.

[0059] In an embodiment, the at least one sensing system is configured to detect the exposed at least one reflective surface when the blocking element is driven from the blocking position to the non-blocking position.

[0060] In an embodiment, the at least one sensing system is communicatively coupled to a communication element.

[0061] In an embodiment, the communication element provides a visual and / or auditory signal.

[0062] In an embodiment, the visual signal is a light or a visual display.

[0063] In an embodiment, the auditory signal is an alarm, horn, buzzer or beeper.

[0064] According to another aspect, there is provided a method of evaluating whether a parked semi-trailer is ready to be at least one of loaded or unloaded, the method comprising: providing an indicator element, the indicator element configured to indicate whether a trailer support device is positioned between an underside of the forward portion of the parked semi-trailer and the ground; and providing a blocking element, the blocking element being movably connected to the indicator element for moving between a blocking position where the indicator element is concealed by the blocking element and a non-blocking position where the indicator element is not concealed by the blocking element and the indicator element is exposed; and allowing access to a bed of the parked semi-trailer, for at least one of loading or unloading goods on the bed, if the indicator element is exposed indicating that the trailer support device is positioned between the underside of the forward portion of the parked semi-trailer and the ground.

[0065] In an embodiment, when the indicator element is exposed, it indicates that the trailer support device is positioned underneath the trailer in a supporting position and is capable of supporting the trailer.

[0066] In an embodiment, the concealment or exposure of the indicator element indicates whether the trailer support device is positioned between the underside of the forward portion of the parked semi-trailer and the ground in a supporting position; access to the bed is allowed if the indicator element is exposed and indicates that the trailer support device is between the underside of the forward portion of the parked semi-trailer and the ground in supporting position; and access to the bed is prohibited if the indicator element is concealed and indicates that the trailer support device is not positioned between the underside of the forward portion of the parked semi-trailer and the ground in a supporting position.

[0067] In an embodiment, the method forther comprises a sensing system for sensing the exposure of the indicator element.

[0068] In an embodiment, the sensing system is communicatively coupled to a communication element.

[0069] In an embodiment, the communication element provides a visual and / or auditory signal.

[0070] In an embodiment, the visual signal is a light or a visual display.

[0071] In an embodiment, the auditory signal is an alarm, horn, buzzer or beeper.

[0072] In an embodiment, the method forther comprises signaling, responsive to the sensing system not detecting the indicator element, the repositioning of the trailer support device system to correctly assume a supporting position between the underside of the forward portion of the parked semi-trailer and the ground.

[0073] In an embodiment, the method forther comprises prohibiting access to the bed of the parked semi-trailer if the indicator element is concealed indicating that the trailer support device is not between the underside of the forward portion of the parked semi-trailer and the ground in a supporting position.

[0074] According to another aspect, there is provided a method of verifying that a trailer support device is in a supporting position for a parked semi-trailer ready to be at least one of loaded or unloaded, the method comprising: positioning a trailer support device at least partially underneath a forward portion of a parked semi-trailer, in front of a landing gear of the semi-trailer, the trailer support device comprising at least one supporting surface capable of supporting the trailer in the event of landing gear failure or trailer upending; sensing an indicator element with a sensing system, which indicator element indicates whether the trailer support device is in the supporting position between the underside of the forward portion of the parked semi-trailer and the ground; signaling, responsive to the sensing system, via a communication element; and, accessing a bed of the parked semi-trailer, for at least one of loading or unloading goods on the bed, after positioning of the trailer support device underneath the forward portion of the semi-trailer and after sensing the indicator element to verify a position of the trailer support device with respect to the semi-trailer.

[0075] In an embodiment, the method further comprises repositioning the trailer support device while at least partially underneath the forward portion of the parked semi-trailer in front of the landing gear, to position the at least one supporting surface in a supporting position between an underneath surface of the parked semi-trailer and the ground, wherein accessing the bed of the parked semi-trailer occurs after repositioning of the trailer support device and after sensing the indicator element to verify that the trailer support device is in the supporting position between the ground and the semi-trailer.

[0076] In an embodiment, the method further comprises prohibiting accessing the bed of the parked semi-trailer, for at least one of loading or unloading goods on the bed, in the absence of verification that the trailer support device is underneath the forward portion of the semitrailer in a supporting position.

[0077] According to another aspect, there is provided a method of preventing semi-trailer tip-over caused by landing gear failure, the method comprising: providing a trailer support device that includes at least one supporting surface elevated off the ground when transported; providing a communication element at a loading dock, the communication element communicatively coupled to a sensing element capable of sensing an indicator element indicating whether the trailer support device is in a supporting position between the underside of the trailer and the ground; and, configuring the communication element to communicate allowing one to discern whether the trailer support device is positioned underneath a forward portion of the parked semi-trailer in front of the landing gear in a supporting position.

[0078] In an embodiment, the communication element provides a visual and / or auditory signal.

[0079] In an embodiment, the visual signal is a light or a visual display.

[0080] In an embodiment, the auditory signal is an alarm, horn, buzzer or beeper.

[0081] In an embodiment, the indicator element comprises at least one reflective surface on the assembly and / or the trailer support device.

[0082] In an embodiment, the sensing element is configured to detect the exposed at least one reflective surface when the indicator element indicates that the trailer support device is in a supporting position between the underside of the trailer and the ground.

[0083] According to another aspect, there is provided a method of preparing a parked semi-trailer for loading goods on or unloading goods from the parked semi-trailer, the method comprising: positioning a trailer support device underneath a forward portion of the parked semitrailer, where the trailer support device comprises at least one trailer support element for supporting the trailer such that the supporting position of the trailer support device is a position where the at least one trailer support element is beneath the trailer and at least one engagement member for engaging the parked-semi-trailer; supporting the parked semi-trailer by positioning at least a portion of the trailer support device underneath the forward portion of the parked semi-trailer so that the at least one engagement member engages the parked semi-trailer and moves from a first position to a second position exposing an indicator element, the exposed indicator element indicating that the trailer support device is in a supporting position underneath the parked semi-trailer.

[0084] In an embodiment, the method further comprises sensing the exposed indicator element.

[0085] In an embodiment, the method further comprises communicating the sensed indicator element.

[0086] In an embodiment, the communicating is in the form of a visual and / or auditory signal.

[0087] In an embodiment, the visual and / or auditory signal substitutes for a direct line of sight inspection.

[0088] In an embodiment, the visual signal is a light or a visual display.

[0089] In an embodiment, the auditory signal is an alarm, horn, buzzer or beeper.

[0090] In an embodiment, the indicator element comprises at least one reflective surface.

[0091] In an embodiment, the method further comprises using the communicating to at least one of refrain from loading / unloading the semi-trailer and moving forward with loading / unloading the semi-trailer.

[0092] In an embodiment, the method further comprises providing a sensing element outside an interior of the loading dock facility, the sensing element communicatively coupled to a communication element to communicate evidence detected outside the interior of the loading dock facility.

[0093] In an embodiment, the method further comprises communicating evidence on the communication element that the trailer support device is in a supporting position underneath the forward portion of the parked semi-trailer.

[0094] In an embodiment, the sensing element comprises an infrared detector.

[0095] In an embodiment, the indicator element comprises an infrared light source and the sensing element comprises an infrared detector.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0096] Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the attached Figures, wherein:

[0097] Figure 1 A is a rear, isometric view of an embodiment of the trailer support device with the indicator assembly attached thereto;

[0098] Figure IB is a front, isometric view of the embodiment of the trailer support device and indicator assembly in Figure 1 A;

[0099] Figure 2 is an isometric view of the trailer support device and lifting apparatus of Figure 1, where the lifting apparatus is mounted on a shunt vehicle and the support structure releasably coupled to the trailer support device;

[0100] Figure 3 is a partial, isometric view of the support legs of the trailer support device of Figure 1 A;

[0101] Figure 4 is a partial, isometric view of the indicator assembly and one of the stepped support assemblies of the trailer support device of Figure 1A;

[0102] Figure 5A is a side, section view of the trailer support device and indicator assembly in Figure 1 A, where the actuating frame of the indicator assembly is in the unactuated position;

[0103] Figure 5B is a side, section view of the frailer support device and indicator assembly in Figure 1A, where the actuating frame of the indicator assembly is in the actuated position;

[0104] Figure 5C is a partial, isometric view of the indicator assembly and one of the stepped support assemblies of the frailer support device of Figure 5A, where the actuating frame is in the unactuated position;

[0105] Figure 6A is a perspective view of the embodiment of the indicator assembly in Figure 1, where the actuating frame of the indicator assembly is in the unactuated position;

[0106] Figure 6B is a perspective view of the embodiment of the indicator assembly in Figure 1, where the actuating frame of the indicator assembly is in the actuated position;

[0107] Figure 6C is a close-up perspective view of the embodiment of the indicator assembly in Figure 6A;

[0108] Figure 6D is a side view of the embodiment of the indicator assembly in Figure 6A;

[0109] Figure 7Ais another side, section view of the frailer support device and indicator assembly in Figure 1A, where the actuating frame of the indicator assembly is in the unactuated position;

[0110] Figure 7B is another side, section view of the trailer support device and indicator assembly in Figure 1A, where the actuating frame of the indicator assembly is in the actuated position;

[0111] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the indicator assembly, where the actuating frame of the indicator assembly includes an integrally formed anti-pinch apparatus;

[0112] Figure 9 is an exploded view of the second embodiment of the indicator assembly provided in Figure 8;

[0113] Figure 10A is a perspective view of the second embodiment of the indicator assembly in Figure 8, where the plurality of blocking members are all in the blocking position;

[0114] Figure 10B is a perspective view of the second embodiment of the indicator assembly in Figure 8, where the plurality of blocking members are all in the withdrawn position;

[0115] Figure 11A shows a rear, perspective view of a height-adjustable trailer support device according to an embodiment of the disclosure, where a third embodiment of the indicator assembly is connected on the height-adjustable trailer support device;

[0116] Figure 11B shows a rear, perspective view of the height-adjustable trailer support device and the embodiment of the indicator assembly in Figure 11 A;

[0117] Figure 12 shows a front, perspective view of the height-adjustable trailer support device and the embodiment of the indicator assembly in Figure 11 A;

[0118] Figure 13 shows a side view of the height-adjustable trailer support device of Figure 13;

[0119] Figure 14 shows a perspective view of a frame of the height-adjustable trailer support device of Figure 11 A;

[0120] Figure 15 shows a perspective view of a stepped support assembly of the height-adjustable trailer support device of Figure 11A;

[0121] Figure 16 shows a perspective view of the third embodiment of the indicator assembly on the height-adjustable trailer support device of Figure 11A;

[0122] Figure 17A shows a perspective view of the third embodiment of the indicator assembly in Figure 11 A, where the actuating frame of the third embodiment of the indicator assembly is in the unactuated position;

[0123] Figure 17B shows a perspective view of the third embodiment of the indicator assembly in Figure 11 A, where the actuating frame of the third embodiment of the indicator assembly is in the actuated position

[0124] Figure 18A is a side, section view of the height-adjustable frailer support device and third embodiment of the indicator assembly in Figure 11 A, where the actuating frame of the indicator assembly is in the unactuated position; and

[0125] Figure 18B is a side, section view of the height-adjustable frailer support device and third embodiment of the indicator assembly in Figure 11 A, where the actuating frame of the indicator assembly is in the actuated position.Detailed Description of the Embodiments

[0126] For simplicity and clarity of illustration, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the Figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. In addition, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiment or embodiments described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments described herein may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described herein. It should be understood at the outset that, although exemplary embodiments are illustrated in the figures and described below, the principles of the present disclosure may be implemented using any number of techniques, whether currently known or not. The present disclosure should in no way be limited to the exemplary implementations and techniques illustrated in the drawings and described below.

[0127] Various terms used throughout the present description may be read and understood as follows, unless the context indicates otherwise: “or” as used throughout is inclusive, as though written “and / or”; singular articles and pronouns as used throughout include their plural forms, and vice versa; similarly, gendered pronouns include their counterpart pronouns so that pronouns should not be understood as limiting anything described herein to use, implementation, performance, etc. by a single gender; “exemplary” should be understood as “illustrative” or “exemplifying” and not necessarily as “preferred” over other embodiments. Further definitions for terms may be set out herein; these may apply to prior and subsequent instances of those terms, as will be understood from a reading of the present description. It will also be noted that the use of the term “a” or “an” will be understood to denote “at least one” in all instances unless explicitly stated otherwise or unless it would be understood to be obvious that it must mean “one.”

[0128] As used herein, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” are to be construed as being inclusive and open ended, and not exclusive. Specifically, when used in the specification and claims, the terms “comprises” and “comprising,” and variations thereof mean the specified features, steps or components are included. These terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps, or components.

[0129] As used herein, the terms “about” and “approximately” are meant to cover variations that may exist in the upper and lower limits of the ranges of values, such as variations in properties, parameters, and dimensions.

[0130] Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For example, the components of the systems and apparatuses may be integrated or separated. Moreover, the operations of the systems and apparatuses disclosed herein may be performed by more, fewer, or other components and the methods described may include more, fewer, or other steps. Additionally, steps may be performed in any suitable order. As used in this document, “each” refers to each member of a set or each member of a subset of a set.

[0131] The embodiments described herein are exemplary (e.g., in terms of materials, shapes, dimensions, and constructional details) and do not limit by the claims appended hereto and any amendments made thereto. Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that there are yet more alternative implementations and modifications possible, and that the following examples are only illustrations of one or more implementations. The scope of the disclosure, therefore, is only to be limited by the claims appended hereto and any amendments made thereto.

[0132] The present disclosure provides a trailer support device 120 that can be positioned below the underside of a trailer and which functions to support the trailer in the event of a failure of the landing gear of the trailer (and an at least partial collapse of the trailer). The trailer support device 120 generally includes at least one top surface, at least one bottom surface, at least one rear surface and at least one front surface. The at least one top surface defines at least one support surface on which an underside of the trailer will land when the trailer support device 120 is positioned beneath the trailer and when the landing gear of the trailer fails such that the trailer collapses at least partially downwards. The trailer support device 120 of the present disclosure can be various forms and sizes of trailer support devices. In an embodiment, the trailer support device 120 of the present disclosure is a shuntable trailer support device 200 that may be releasably coupled with, for example a shunt vehicle 102, and maneuvered and positioned by the shunt vehicle 102. Two different embodiments of the trailer support device 120 are provided as the stepped trailer support device 200a in Figures 1A to 7B, and the height-adjustable trailer support device 400 in Figures 11A to 18B. Both the stepped trailer support device 200a and the height-adjustable trailer support device 400 are shuntable trailer support devices 200.

[0133] The present disclosure also provides for a lifting apparatus 110 such as the lifting apparatus 110 shown in Figure 2. The lifting apparatus 110 as disclosed herein can be releasably coupled to the trailer support device 120. The lifting apparatus 110 functions to lift the trailer support device 120 off a ground surface when the lifting apparatus 110 is coupled to the trailer support device 120.

[0134] The present disclosure also provides for an indicator assembly for indicating that the trailer support device 120 is positioned in a supporting position below the trailer. The indicator assembly 130 can be used with the various forms of the trailer support device 120 as disclosed herein. A first embodiment of the indicator assembly 130 is provided as the assembly 300 in Figures 1 A to 7B, a second embodiment of the indicator assembly 130 is provided as the assembly 500 in Figures 8 to 10B, and a third embodiment of the indicator assembly 130 is provided as the assembly 600 in Figures 11A to 18B. While the specific embodiments of the trailer support device 120 illustrated in Figures 1 A to 7B and 11 A to 1 IB are different, it will be readily understood that the various embodiments of the indicator assembly 130 (including the assemblies 300, 500, 600) as provided herein can be used interchangeably with the various embodiments of the trailer support device 120, as well as other embodiments of the trailer support device 120 that are not specifically illustrated in the drawings.

[0135] The structure of the various embodiments of the trailer support device 120 will now be discussed with reference to the drawings.Stepped Trailer Support Device

[0136] Referring to Figures 1 A to 2, there is provided a first embodiment of the trailer support device 120, where the trailer support device 120 is a shuntable trailer support device 200, where the trailer support device 120 is configured as a stepped trailer support device 200a, and the lifting apparatus 110 is connected to a shunt vehicle 102. The shunt vehicle 102 can be driven by an operator and can also house a control unit for controlling the operation of the lifting apparatus 110. By controlling the lifting apparatus 110 and the shunt vehicle 102, the steppedtrailer support device 200a can be picked up off the ground surface by the lifting apparatus 110 and repositioned along the ground surface by moving the shunt vehicle 102. In at least some embodiments, the shunt vehicle 102 and lifting apparatus 110 are used to reposition the stepped trailer support device 200a such that the at least one support surface of the trailer is disposed at least partially beneath the underside of the trailer.

[0137] An embodiment of the stepped trailer support device 200a is provided in Figures lAto 5C and 7Ato 7B. The stepped trailer support device 200a includes pairs of front and rear legs 232, 234 as well as front and rear cross supports 233, 235 extending between each pair of legs 232, 234. In the specific embodiments of Figures 1 A to 4, the pairs of front and rear legs 232, 234 are pairs of substantially vertical front and rear legs 232, 234. Each of the front and rear legs 223, 224 is supported on a bottom plate 238 such that each leg is normal to the bottom plate 238. The front cross support 233 is connected to a top surface of each front leg 232 and the rear cross support 235 is connected to a top surface of each rear leg 234.

[0138] In an embodiment, any of the pairs of front and rear legs 232, 234, and the front and rear cross-supports 233, 235 may be made from, but are not limited to, metal tubing, such as 6"x 6" steel tubing.

[0139] Between each of the front legs and each of the rear legs 232, 234 is a leg bracing member 242 which keeps the legs 232, 234 apart and prevents the legs 232, 234 from twisting relative to each other in the case where a ground surface on which the stepped frailer support device 200a sits is not level. The leg brace member 242 may be formed from a metal plate, such as rolled steel plate.

[0140] In an embodiment, the structure of the stepped frailer support device 200a also includes angled support beams 244 that are mounted on, and extend between, each of the front and rear legs 232, 234 and each of the front and rear cross supports 233, 235. In a fiirther embodiment, the angled support beams 244 are welded in place between the cross supports 233, 235 and the legs 232, 234.

[0141] In the embodiment provided in Figures 1 A to 5C and 7A to 7B, the bottom plates 238 upon which one of front and rear legs 232, 234 are each mounted is itself mounted on a pair of support blocks 246 via a pair of angle brackets 245. The bottom plate 238 can be secured to the bottom of the front and rear legs 232, 234 by welding. The angle brackets 245 that secure the bottom plate 238 on the support blocks 246 can also be secured in place by fasteners 247 which are threaded into the bottom plate 238 and each of the support blocks 246. In the exemplary embodiment provided in Figures 1 A and IB, the fasteners 247 are threaded bolts.

[0142] In an alternate embodiment, the angle brackets 245 that secure the bottom plates 238 on the support blocks 246 can also be welded in place on the support blocks 246 and on a bottom surface of the bottom plates 238.

[0143] In the specific embodiment of Figures 1 A, IB and 3, two gussets 248 are mounted in place between the bottom plate 238 and each of the front and rear legs 232, 234 to fiirther secure the legs 232, 234 on the bottom plate 238. In a fiirther embodiment, the gussets 248 are welded in place between the bottom plate 238 and legs 232, 234.

[0144] In an additional embodiment such as provided in Figures lA to 5C and 7A to 7B, the shuntable frailer support device 200 is formed as a stepped frailer support device 200a.

[0145] In the specific embodiments provided in Figures 1A to 5C and 7A to 7B, the shuntable frailer support device 200 is the stepped, shuntable frailer support device 200a that includes a plurality of stepped support assemblies 250. The plurality of stepped support assemblies 250 on the stepped trailer support device 200a include a pair of stepped support assemblies 250 disposed on left and right sides of the cross supports 233, 235. Each stepped support assembly 250 sits atop and is connected to the front cross support 233 of the front pair of legs 232 and the back cross support 235 of the back pair of legs 234. Each stepped support assembly 250 comprises a stepped inner plate 252, a stepped outer plate 254, a plurality of frame members 256 extending between the stepped inner and outer plates 252, 254, and a plurality of bumpers 258 that are connected to the plurality of frame members 256.

[0146] The stepped inner and outer plates 252, 254 of each stepped support assembly 250 are mounted in an upright orientation and are sized to traverse the gap between the front and rear cross supports 233, 235, and to extend beyond the front and rear pairs of legs 232, 234. The plurality of frame members 256 of each stepped support assembly 250 extend between, and are connected to, the stepped inner and outerplates 252, 254 to support the inner and outer plates 252, 254 in their upright orientations. As shown in Figures 1A, IB, 7A and 7B, the stepped inner and outer plates 252, 254 act much like stringers in stair construction, where each plate 252, 254 includes a plurality of treads 262 and a plurality of risers 261 that are disposed between adjacent treads 262 of the plurality of treads 262 to form stages or steps. The treads 262 and risers 261 of the stepped support assemblies 250 are formed on each of the inner and outer plates 252, 254.

[0147] In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of treads 262 are about 8" to 10" in length, each having a riser 261 of about 3" in height. However, as the skilled person in the art will understand, any length of tread and any height of riser may be used and depends on the acceptable height that a trailer may fall onto the shuntable trailer support device 200 and the acceptable amount of tread to support the underside of the trailer if the trailer were to land on the shuntable trailer support device 200.

[0148] As shown in Figures 1A, IB, 4, 5C, 7A and 7B, each stepped support assembly 250 ofthe pair of stepped assemblies 250a includes a plurality of trailer support elements 260 that are defined by the treads 262 and / or the bumpers 258 of the stepped support assembly 250a. The treads 262 and risers 261 of the stepped inner plate 252 correspond to the treads 262 and risers 261 of the stepped outer plate 254. The plurality of treads 262 on the inner and outer plates 252, 254 are substantially aligned such that each tread of the plurality of treads 262 on the inner plate 252 aligns with a tread 262 of the plurality of treads 262 on the outer plate 254. Each set of aligned treads 262 at least partially forms one trailer support element 260 of the plurality of trailer support elements 260. The trailer support element 260 can at least partially support the underside of the trailer in the event of a failure of the landing gear of the trailer.

[0149] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 4, 7A and 7B, the risers 261 are formed as angled risers at obtuse angles relative to the treads 261. While Figures 1 to 7B show a particular shape to the stepped inner plate 252 and stepped outer plate 254 to create the plurality of trailer support elements 260 on the stepped support assemblies 250, it will be understood that any shape of the plates 252, 254 is feasible for creating the trailer support element 260 to support the trailer. For example, in an alternate, the risers 261 on the stepped inner plate 252 and stepped outer plate 254 are substantially vertical.

[0150] In an additional embodiment, the treads 262 and risers 261 of one of the pair of stepped support assemblies 250a substantially match and are aligned with the treads 262 and risers 261 of the other of the pair of stepped support assemblies 250a. In this way, each trailer support element 260 on one of the pair of stepped assemblies 250a matches and corresponds to one of the trailer support elements 260 on the other of the pair of stepped assemblies 250a.

[0151] In another additional embodiment such as provided in Figures 7A and 7B, each trailer support element 260 of the plurality of trailer support elements 260 is formed as an open step so that during rainy, snowy, or icy weather conditions, no build-up of water, snow, or ice forms on the trailer support element 260. While the example shown in Figures 1A to 7B shows each trailer support element 260 as being open, the trailer support elements 260 may be closed with a top or treading that traverses the width and length of trailer support element 260 for warmer, dryer climates, or for aesthetic purposes.

[0152] In an embodiment such as shown in Figures 1A and IB, each stepped support assembly 250 of the pair of stepped support assemblies 250a includes at least one of the plurality of bumpers 258. Each bumper 258 of the plurality of bumpers 258 can be said to be associated with one of the plurality of trailer support elements 260. Each bumper 258 is connected to each of the risers 261, the stepped inner plate 252 and the stepped outer plate 254. The bumper 258 is positioned for preventing metal-on-metal contact between the risers 261 and the trailer as the trailer is advanced over one of the trailer support elements 260 that is adjacent to the riser 261 .

[0153] In an additional embodiment, the bumper 258 is structured to substantially prevent contact between the risers 261 of the stepped inner and outer plates 252, 254 and the trailer that is to be supported on the shuntable trailer support device 200a. The bumper 258 is shown in more detail in Figures 5A and 5b and has a substantially rectangular shape. In this exemplary embodiment, the bumper 258 can be made to a sufficient size and shape to absorb the contact from a semi-trailer. The bumper 258 includes a central, rectangular bar and a plurality of partially-elastic plates mounted to opposing sides of the rectangular bar . The sides of the rectangular bar on which the partially-elastic platesare not mounted include at least one borehole which is provided for mounting the bumper 258 to its corresponding frame member 256. In a fiirther embodiment, the partially-elastic plates of the bumper 258 are made from molded rubber or plastic.

[0154] Referring to Figures 1A, and IB, the at least one bumper of each stepped support assembly 250 includes a plurality of bumpers 258. The plurality of bumpers 258 are disposed within the openings between the inner and outer plates 252, 254 of each stepped support assembly 250. One of the frame members 256 is provided for each bumper 258 in each step of the support assembly 250, and each of the bumpers 258 is mounted to the corresponding frame member 256. Each of the bumpers 258 is mounted to a corresponding frame member 256 such that a top surface of the bumper 258 is substantially co-planar to a corresponding tread 262 of each of the stepped inner and outer plates 252, 254. In this way, each bumper 258, together with the aligned treads 262 of the inner and outer plates 252, 254, form one frailer support element 260 of the plurality of frailer support elements 260. As described above, the trailer support element 260 can at least partially support the underside of the frailer during an at least partial failure of the landing gear of the frailer. The underside of the frailer can be supported on one frailer support element 260 of the plurality of frailer support elements 260 such that the underside of the frailer is resting on the aligned treads 262 of the inner and outer plates and / or on the top surface of the bumper 258.

[0155] Referring to the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 1A, IB and 2, the shuntable trailer support device 200 also includes and defines therein at least one receiving channel 210 that is sized to receive a support structure 112 of the lifting apparatus 110.

[0156] In an additional embodiment, the at least one receiving channel 210 is positioned on the frailer support device 120 such that the receiving channel 210 is open in a direction towards the bottom of the frame of the frailer support device 120 and the support structure 112 is advanced up and into the receiving channel 210 such that the support structure 112 is at least partially received in the receiving channel 210.

[0157] In the specific embodiments of the shuntable frailer support device 200 provided in Figures 1 A to 5C and 7A to 7B, the shuntable frailer support device 200 includes a plurality of hook-shaped members 220 projecting in a rearward direction from the shuntable frailer support device 200. In this embodiment, the hooked form of each of the hook-shaped members 220 defines a channel portion therein. The hook-shaped members 220 of the shuntable trailer support device 200 are relatively aligned along the shuntable frailer support device 200 such that the channel portion of each of the plurality of hook-shaped members 220 can be said to collectively define the at least one receiving channel 210 of the shuntable frailer support device 200.

[0158] In an embodiment, the pair of stepped support assemblies 250 define the at least one receiving channel 210 for support structure 112 of the lifting apparatus 110. In this embodiment, the plurality of hook shaped-members 220 of the frailer support device 120 are a plurality of hooks 220a that are formed as a part of the stepped support assemblies 250. The plurality of hooks 220a extend from the trailer support device 120 to define a receiving channel 210 that is sized to receive at least a portion of the support structure 112.

[0159] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 1A to 5C and 7A to 7B, the plurality of hooks 220a are formed as part of the stepped inner and outer plates 252, 254 and extend out from a top, rearward portion of each inner face plate and outer face plate 252, 254. The hooks 220a of each of the inner and outer face plates 252, 254 have corresponding shapes and forms. The hook 220a that is formed as part of each inner and outer face plate 252, 254 projects in a rearward direction from the plate 252, 254. The hooks 220a project from the plate in a substantially horizontal orientation and the hook 220a defines an upside-down u-shaped channel 224. The hook 220a can include an angled tip portion 222 that is angled inwards, towards the u-shaped channel 224. The angled tip portion 222 of the hook 220a can facilitate receiving of the support structure 112 in the u-shaped channel 224 by guiding the support structure 112 towards the u-shaped channel 224 as the support structure 112 is driven to move relative to hook 220a.

[0160] The combined fiinctioning of the vehicle 102 and lifting apparatus 110 in moving and lifting the trailer support device 120 will now be described with reference to the drawings. In repositioning the frailer support device 120 on the ground surface relative to the frailer, the lifting apparatus 110 mounted to the shunting vehicle 102 can be moved into the vicinity of the frailer support device 120 to releasably couple the lifting apparatus 110 to the frailer support device 120. A method for using the lifting apparatus 110 and vehicle 102 to manipulate the frailer support device 120 under an underside of a frailer is also provided by the present disclosure. In this embodiment, the vehicle 102and lifting apparatus 110 are maneuvered along a ground surface, towards the trailer support device 120 supported on the ground surface. The vehicle 102 is driven towards a rear side of the trailer support device 120 such that the rear side is substantially parallel to the vehicle 102 (e.g., the front vehicle bumper 132). The vehicle 102 advances the lifting apparatus 110 towards the trailer support device 120 until support structure 112 of the lifting apparatus 110 becomes releasably coupled within the receiving channel 210 of the trailer support device 120.

[0161] Once the trailer support device 120, 200 is releasably coupled to the lifting apparatus 110, the lifting apparatus 110 is operated for lifting the trailer support device 120 from the ground surface. As the trailer support device 120 is lifted from the ground surface, it is coupled to the lifting apparatus 110 such that relative movement of the trailer support device 120 and lifting apparatus 110 is limited. The support structure 112 is securely received within the channel 210 defined by the hook-shaped members 220. The lifting apparatus 110 is structured to limit any pivoting of the trailer support device 120 relative to the lifting apparatus 110.

[0162] After lifting the trailer support device 120 from the ground surface, the lifting apparatus 110 and vehicle 102 are maneuvered towards the nose of the trailer. The lifting apparatus 110 is then operated to set the trailer support device 120 down on the ground surface at a predetermined distance from the nose of the trailer. Once the trailer support device 120 is set on the ground surface, the lifting apparatus 110 and vehicle 102 are then maneuvered forward such that the trailer support device 120 is shunted underneath the nose of a trailer. The lifting apparatus 110 and vehicle 102 shunt the shuntable trailer support device 200 under the nose of the trailer until an underside of the trailer is disposed over at least one support surface of the trailer support device 120. The trailer support device 120 can then be said to be in position under the trailer for supporting the trailer in the event of a failure of the landing gear of the trailer. The lifting apparatus 110 can then be operated to release the support structure 112 from the trailer support device 120 such that the lifting apparatus 110 and vehicle can be maneuvered away from the trailer.

[0163] For removing the shuntable trailer support device 200 from beneath the underside of the trailer, the vehicle can be maneuvered relative to the shuntable trailer support device 200 and the vehicle such that the lifting apparatus 110 is advanced towards the shuntable trailer support device 200, and the support structure $22 of the lifting apparatus 110 is received in the receiving channel of the shuntable trailer support device 200 for releasably coupling the shuntable trailer support device 200 and the lifting apparatus 110. The vehicle can then be maneuvered backwards so that the shuntable trailer support device 200 is drawn out from beneath the underside of the trailer. The lifting apparatus 110 is then operated to lift the shuntable trailer support device 200 off the ground surface. The vehicle 102 can then be maneuvered to transport the lifted trailer support device 120 towards another destination.

[0164] In the various embodiments of the present disclosure, the shuntable trailer support device 200 has the plurality of trailer support elements 260, in the form of steps (or vertically oriented steps) for supporting an underside of the trailer during a failure or collapse of the landing gear. Each of the plurality of trailer support elements 260 is separated from adjacent trailer support elements 260 by a riser (such as the risers 261). In the use of the lifting apparatus 110 to lift, relocate and place the trailer support device 120 beneath the underside of the trailer, the lifting apparatus 110 can be applied for placing the trailer support device 120 under trailers that are at different heights above the ground surface (i.e., trailers where the bottom surface of the trailers are at varying heights above the ground). The lifting apparatus 110 and shunt vehicle 102 can be used to move the trailer support device 120 into a position beneath the underside of the trailer such that a vertical gap exists between at least one trailer support element 260 of the trailer support device 120 and the underside of the trailer. In this way, trailer support device 120 provides a support for the trailer in the case of a failure or collapse of the landing gear of the trailer. While the trailer support device 120 can be used as a support for trailers of various heights in the event of, for example a landing gear failure or collapse, the stepped trailer support device 200a of the present disclosure has a fixed height. Effectively, the top surface(s) of the trailer support device 120 (as defined by the plurality of trailer support elements 260 of the stepped support assemblies on the stepped trailer support device 200a) will be at a static height above the ground surface when the stepped trailer support device 200a is resting on the ground surface.Indicator Assembly

[0165] The present disclosure provides for an indicator assembly 130 for indicating that a trailer support device 120 is in a supporting position beneath a trailer. When the trailer support device 120 is in the supporting position, the at least one trailer support element 260 of the trailer support device 120 is beneath the trailer. As noted above, least one trailer support element 260 of the trailer support device 120 is structured for supporting the trailer in the event of a failure of landing gear of the trailer or tipping of the trailer. In this way, the supporting position of the trailer support device 120 is defined at a position where the at least one trailer support element 260 can support the trailer (i.e., the at least one trailer support element 260 is beneath the trailer). Essentially, when the trailer support device 120 is in the supporting position, the at least one trailer support element 260 of the trailer support device 120 is capable of “catching” and supporting the trailer in the event of landing gear collapse (or a similar, at least partial failures of the landing gear on the trailer). In this embodiment, the trailer support element 260 is a landing area for the collapsing or tipping trailer.

[0166] In an embodiment, the assembly 130 comprises a blocking element 370 that is movably connected to the trailer support device 120 for moving between a blocking position and a non-blocking position where an indicator element 374 is exposed. The assembly 130 also comprises an actuating frame 324 that comprises at least one engagement member 340. The actuating frame 324 is movably connected to the trailer support device 120 for moving between an unactuated position where the at least one engagement member 340 is disposed at a first position relative to the at least one trailer support element 260, and an actuated position where the at least one engagement member 340 is disposed at a second position that is longitudinally more rearward than the first position relative to the at least one trailer support element 260.

[0167] In the assembly 130 as disclosed herein (including the various embodiments of the assembly 300, 500, 600) the actuating frame 324 is positioned on the trailer support device 120 such that when the at least one trailer support element 260 of the trailer support device 120 is advanced beneath the trailer into the supporting position, the at least one engagement member 340 abuts the trailer and the actuating frame 324 is driven from the unactuated position towards the actuated position due to the contact of the at least one engagement member 340 with the trailer. In addition, the blocking element 370 is operably connected to the actuating frame 324 such that as the actuating frame 324 is driven from the unactuated position towards the actuated position, the blocking element 370 is driven from the blocking position to the nonblocking position for exposing the indicator element 374.

[0168] In the operation of the indicator assembly 130, the blocking element 370 being driven from the blocking position to the nonblocking position (and thereby exposing the indicator element 374) effectively indicates that the trailer support device 120 is in the supporting position beneath the trailer.

[0169] In an embodiment, the indicator element 374 is structured for conveying to at least one external sensing system that the trailer support device 120 is in the supporting position beneath the trailer. The at least one external sensing system is capable of detecting the indicator element 374 when the trailer support device 120 is in the supporting position below the trailer and the indicator element 374 is exposed. The indicator element 374 can be any indicator element capable of conveying to at least one external sensing system that the trailer support device 120 is in the supporting position beneath the trailer, including reflective surfaces, light sources, including infrared light sources, etc. Likewise, the external sensing system can be any sensing system capable of detecting the indicator element 374 when the trailer support device 120 is in the supporting position below the trailer and the indicator element 374 is exposed, including sensors for sensing reflective surfaces, light sources, including infrared light sources, etc., such as, for example, infrared detectors.

[0170] In at least some embodiments, the indicator element 374 comprises at least one reflective surface, and the at least one reflective surface is connected on the assembly 130. The at least one external sensing system is configured to detect the exposed at least one reflective surface when the blocking assembly 130 is driven from the blocking position to the non-blocking position.

[0171] In at least some embodiments, the indicator element 374 is positioned on the trailer support device, not on the assembly 130.

[0172] In at least some embodiments, the at least one external sensing system is configured to send feedback regarding whether the trailer support device is properly in the supporting position.

[0173] In at least some embodiments, the sensing system is communicatively coupled to a communication element.

[0174] In at least some embodiments, the communication element provides a visual and / or auditory signal.

[0175] In at least some embodiments, the visual signal is a light or a visual display.

[0176] In at least some embodiments, the auditory signal is an alarm, horn, buzzer or beeper.First Embodiment of the Indicator Assembly

[0177] Referring to Figures 1 to 7B, there is shown the first embodiment of the indicator assembly 130 formed as the assembly 300. The assembly 300 is connected on the stepped, shuntable trailer support device 200a. In the various embodiments of the present disclosure, the assembly 300 can include some or all of the aforementioned elements of the indicator assembly 130.

[0178] As shown in Figures 4 and 5C, the at least one trailer support element 260 on the trailer support device 120 has a front leading edge that defines a vertical plane. The actuating frame 324 of the assembly 300 is positioned on the trailer support device 120 such when the at least one engagement member 340 is in the first position, the at least one engagement member 340 is disposed forward of the vertical plane defined by the front leading edge of the at least one trailer support element. The actuating frame 324 is also positioned on the trailer support device 120 such when the at least one engagement member 340 is in the second position, the at least one engagement member 340 is disposed rearward of the vertical plane defined by the front leading edge of the at least one frailer support element 260.

[0179] As described above with reference to Figures 1 A, IB, 7A and 7B, the the frailer support device 120 has at least one stepped support assembly 130 with the at least one riser 261 and the at least one tread 262 that extends forward from the at least one riser 261. The at least one tread 262 defines the at least one frailer support element 260. In these embodiments, the front leading edge of the at least one trailer support element 260 is defined at the intersection of the at least one tread 262 and the at least one riser 261 such that the at least one riser 261 defines the vertical plane. With the vertical plane being defined by the at least one riser 261, the actuating frame 324 is positioned on the frailer support device 120 such that when the at least one engagement member 340 is in the first position, at least part of the at least one engagement member 340 is disposed forward of the at least one riser 261 .

[0180] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 1 A to 5C, and 7A to 7B, the at least one frailer support element 260 is the plurality of frailer support elements 260, the at least one riser 261 is the plurality of risers 261, and the at least one tread 262 is the plurality of treads 262 corresponding to the plurality of risers 261 . The plurality of treads 262 define the plurality of trailer support elements 260. When the at least one frailer support element 260 is the plurality of frailer support elements 260 that include the plurality of treads 262 and risers 261, the front leading edge of each trailer support element 260 is defined at the intersection of one of the plurality of treads 262 and a corresponding one of the risers 261 such that the riser 261 defines the vertical plane associated with each trailer support element 260.

[0181] In an embodiment such as provided in Figures 4 to 7B, the assembly 300 includes a base plate 310 that is connected to the frailer support device 120. The assembly 130 is constructed such that the actuating frame 324 is movably connected to the base plate 310 for moving thereabout between the unactuated and actuated positions. The base plate 310 can be mounted to various elements of the frailer support device 120 for securing the assembly 300 in place on the trailer support device 120.

[0182] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 4 to 7B, the base plate 310 is mounted substantially along a longitudinal centerline of the frailer support device 120. The base plate 310 includes at least a first portion 310a that is formed of a first flanged plate, and a second portion 310b that is formed of a second flanged plate mounted to the first flanged plate. The base plate 310 can, at least in some embodiments, include a third base portion 310c that is distinct from the first and second base portions 310a, 310b. In the same embodiment provided in Figures 4 to 7B, the third base portion 310c is formed as a mounting plate 316 that extends downwards, substantially perpendicular to the first and second frame flanged plates. The mounting plate 316 includes a receiving slot 361 formed thereon. The first flanged plate includes a flange 314 that extends out from a first end of the first flanged plate . The flange 314 i s mounted in the receiving slot 361 for connecting the first flanged plate and mounting plate 316 such that an end of the first flanged plate rests against a first surface of the mounting plate 316.

[0183] The embodiment provided in Figures 1 A to 7B illustrates a non-limiting example of how the base plate 310 with the first, second and third portions 310a, 310b, 310c can be mounted to the stepped, shuntable trailer support device 200a. In this specific embodiment, the base plate 310 is mounted on the shuntable trailer support device 200a such that the base plate 310 substantially spans a gap between the front and rear cross supports 233, 235. The mounting plate 316 of the base plate 310 is connected to the rear cross support 235. Specifically, a second surface of the mounting plate 316 (opposite the first surface) is held against an inner face of the rear cross support 235, and the base plate 310 spans the gap between the front and rear cross supports 233, 235 such that the second portion 310b is mounted at least partially atop the front cross support 233. The base plate 310 is arranged such that the mounting plate 316 extends downwards from the rear cross-support 235, and a distal end of the mounting plate 316 is disposed in a space between all of the front and rear legs 232, 234.

[0184] In an additional embodiment where the at least one stepped support assembly 250 is the pair of stepped support assemblies 250 that are disposed on the opposing lateral sides of the trailer support device 120, the base plate 310 is structured to be connectable substantially along a centerline of the trailer support device 120 for positioning the at least one engagement member 340 substantially at an equidistance between the pair of stepped support assemblies 250. By positioning the at least one engagement member 340 at this point, the trailer will only engage the at least one engagement member 340 if the trailer support device 120 is advanced under the trailer, substantially along the centerline of the trailer support device 120.

[0185] In an additional embodiment such as shown in Figures 1A to 7B, the base plate 310 is mounted to the trailer support device 120 (e.g., the stepped, shuntable trailer support device 200a) via at least one securing element that is connected between the base plate 310 and the trailer support device 120. The at least one securing element fiinctions to releasably mount the base plate 310 to the trailer support device 120. In some embodiments, the at least one securing element can be a permanent securing element, such as a rivet, for permanently securing the base plate 310 to the trailer support device 120. In at least some other embodiments, the at least one securing element is a removable securing element, such as a threaded screw, for releasably securing the base plate 310 to the trailer support device 120. In still other embodiments, the base plate 310 is permanently affixed to the trailer support device 120 (via welding or similar permanent fixation means).

[0186] In an additional embodiment such as shown in Figures 4 to 7B, the at least one securing element includes a pair of first securing elements 354 and a pair of second securing elements 356. The pair of first securing elements 354 are connectable to one of the first or third portions 310a, 310c of the base plate 310 for connecting the first or third portion 310a, 310c to the rear cross support 235. The pair of second securing elements 356 are connectable to the second portion 310b of the base plate 310 for connecting the second portion 310b to the front cross support 233.

[0187] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 4 to 7B, the pair of first securing elements 354 are a pair of first U-bolts 354a, and the pair of second securing elements 356 are a pair of second U-bolts 356a. When the base plate 310 is mounted on the stepped, shuntable trailer support device 200a, the pair of first U-bolts 354a are secured to the second surface of the mounting plate and wrap around the circumference of the rear cross support 235 for holding the mounting plate against the rear cross support 235. The pair of second U-bolts 356a are secured to an underside of the second flanged plate and wrap around the circumference of the front cross support 233 for holding the second flanged plate onto top of the front cross support 233.

[0188] In an embodiment, the assembly 300 fiirther includes a main support bracket 318. The main support bracket 318 is connected to the base plate 310 and provides a structure to which the actuating frame 324 can be pivotably connected, thereby pivotably connecting that actuating frame 324 and the base plate 310. The actuating frame 324 defines a pair of pivot points thereon, where the actuating frame 324 is pivotably coupled to the base plate 310 via the pair of pivot points.

[0189] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 4 to 7B, the main support bracket 318 is mounted onto the second flanged plate of the second portion 310b of the base plate 310. The main support bracket 318 extends substantially along the length of the second flanged plate. The main support bracket 318 includes a pair of bracket flanges 319 that have angular forms. A long side of each bracket flange 319 is welded against the second flanged plate. The pair of bracket flanges 319 are oriented substantially vertically on the second flanged plate andare laterally spaced apart to define a space therebetween. A spacer plate 320 is mounted towards a rear of the main support bracket 318, between the pair of bracket flanges 319, and a stopper plate 321 is mounted towards the front of the main support bracket 318, also between the pair of bracket flanges 319. The spacer plate 320 and stopper plate 321 reinforce the structure of the main support bracket 318 and help maintain the pair of bracket flanges 319 in the substantially vertical orientation. Each of the pair of bracket flanges 319 includes a pair of mounting apertures 323 formed thereon. A first mounting aperture of the pair of mounting apertures 323 is disposed towards a front end of each bracket flange 319 and a second mounting aperture of the pair of mounting apertures 323 is disposed towards a rear end of each bracket flange 319. The first mounting apertures on the pair of bracket flanges 319 define a one pivot point on the main support bracket 318, and the second mounting apertures define another pivot point on the main support bracket 318.

[0190] In the embodiments of the assembly 300 shown in Figures 1 A to 7B, the actuating frame 324 comprises a four-bar linkage that is pivotably connected to the trailer support device 120. The four-bar linkage comprises a primary linkage 330, where the at least one engagement member 340 is connected to the primary linkage 330. As shown in Figures 5 A to 7B, the four-bar linkage is pivotably connected to the frailer support device 120 such that in the unactuated position (shown in Figures 5A, 7A), the primary linkage 330 is in a first longitudinal position about the base plate 310, and in the actuated position (shown in Figures 5B and 7B), the primary linkage 330 is in second longitudinal position about the base plate 310 that is longitudinally rearward of the first longitudinal position.

[0191] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 4 to 7B, the actuating frame 324 is pivotably connected to the main support bracket 319 on the second portion 310b (i.e., the second flanged plate) of the base plate 310. The actuating frame 324 includes a pair of forward mounting apertures 335 and a pair of rear mounting apertures 336. The forward and rear mounting apertures 335, 336 are positioned on the actuating frame 324 such that when the actuating frame 324 is connected to the main support bracket 318, the pair of forward apertures 335 substantially align with the first mounting apertures on the bracket flanges 319, the pair of rear apertures 336 substantially align with the second mounting apertures on the bracket flanges 319. In this way, the forward and rear mounting apertures 335, 336 define the pair of pivot points on the actuating frame 324.

[0192] In at least some embodiments, the first and second mounting apertures on the bracket flanges 319 and the forward and rear mounting apertures 335, 336 on the actuating frame 324 form part of a pivoting assembly structure 322 for providing the pivoting connection between the main support bracket 318 and the actuating frame 324. In these embodiments, either the forward and rear mounting apertures 335, 336 or the first and second mounting apertures (on the main support bracket 318) include a pin element 322a that is mounted therethrough. The pin element 322a mounted through the one of the and rear mounting apertures 335, 336 and the first and second mounting apertures is rotatably supported within other of the forward and rear mounting apertures 335, 336 and the first and second mounting apertures such that the actuating frame 324 can pivot about main support bracket 318 between a first angular position (see Figures 5A, 6A, and 7A) that defines the unactuated position, and a second angular position (see Figure 5B, 6B, and 7B) that defines the actuated position.

[0193] Various structures, configurations, and arrangements of the actuating frame 324 may be provided as part of the indicator assembly 300 described herein. The actuating frame 324 includes the at least one engagement member 340.

[0194] In an embodiment such as shown in Figures 1 A to 7B, the four-bar linkage further comprises front and rear pivoting linkages 326, 328 that are each pivotably connected between the primary linkage 330 and the base plate 310. A first section of the primary linkage 330 is pivotably connected to the front pivoting linkage 326 and a second section of the primary linkage 330 is pivotably connected to the rear pivoting linkage 328. The front pivoting linkage 326 and rear pivoting linkage 328 are each pivotably connected to the base plate 310 such that the front and rear pivoting linkages 326, 328 pivot about the base plate 310 as the actuating frame 324 is driven between the unactuated and actuated positions (see Figures 5 A, 5B, 7A, and 7B).

[0195] In the specific embodiment of the actuating frame 324 provided in Figures 4 to 7B, the three pivoting linkage elements include the front pivoting linkage 326, the rear pivoting linkage 328 and the primary linkage 330. Each of the front pivoting linkage 326, rear pivoting linkage 328 and primary linkage 330 include first and second of opposing ends. The first end of each of the forward and rearward pivotinglinkages is pivotably connected to the base plate 310, and the primary linkage 330 is connected between the second ends of the front and rear pivoting linkages 326, 328 such that the primary linkage 330 translates with the front and rear pivoting linkages 326, 328 as the front and rear pivoting linkages 326, 328 pivot about the base plate 310. The forward mounting apertures 335 of the actuating frame 324 are formed on the first end of the front pivoting linkage 326, and the rear mounting apertures 336 are formed on the first end of the rear pivoting linkage 328. The first ends of the front and rear pivoting linkages 326, 328 can thereby by pivotably connected to the flanges 319 of the main support bracket 318.

[0196] In an additional embodiment, the primary linkage 330 of the actuating frame 324 is formed as a multi-part linkage that includes a number of distinct parts that can be releasably or fixedly connected together (such as via fasteners or welding).

[0197] In the various embodiments of the actuating frame 324 that includes the front and rear pivoting linkages 326, 328, the front and rear pivoting linkages 326, 328 can be pivotably connected to different section of the primary linkage 330 via pivoting assemblies (such as the pivoting assembly structure 322) proximate the ends thereof.

[0198] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 4 to 7B, the primary linkage 330 is formed as the multi-part linkage. The multipart linkage includes a pair of trapezoidal-shaped side plates 332 that are spaced apart from one another. The connection between the second end of each of the front and rear pivoting linkages 326, 328 is provided on the pair of side plates 332, towards a bottommost edge of the pair of side plates 332. The second end from each of the front and rear pivoting linkages 326, 328 is disposed in a space between the pair of side plates 332, and each second end is pivotably connected to the pair of side plates 332 via a suitably pivoting assembly 322(322a). The multipart linkage also includes a number of spacers 334 that are connected between the pair of side plates 332 and span the space between the pair of side plates 332 for supporting the pair of side plates 332 to remain substantially parallel to one another. The spacers 334 include a number of brace plates, and an angled plate 333 that is mounted proximate a topmost edge of the of the pair of side plates 332 and extends substantially along the length of the pair of side plates 332.

[0199] In the embodiments of the indicator assembly 300 provided herein, various structures, configurations, and arrangements of the at least one engagement member 340 can be provided as part of the actuating frame 324. The at least one engagement member 340 can, in the various embodiments, be configured as a single engagement member 340 or a plurality of engagement members 340. The plurality of engagement members 340 can be formed to be substantially identical in form, or some of the plurality of engagement members 340 can be formed with different forms than the rest of the plurality of engagement members 340.

[0200] In an embodiment, the actuating frame 324 is positioned on the frailer support device 120 such that when the frailer support device 120 is advanced beneath the frailer into the supporting position with at least one frailer support element 260 of the plurality of frailer support elements 260 positioned beneath the frailer, an engagement member 340 that corresponds to the at least one frailer support element 260 abuts the frailer, and the actuating frame 324 is driven from the unactuated position towards the actuated position. In this way, regardless of the height of the frailer over the frailer support device 120 and regardless of which trailer support element 260 of the plurality of frailer support elements 260 the trailer is positioned above, at least one engagement member 340 abuts the frailer when the trailer support device 120 is positioned beneath the trailer in the supporting position.

[0201] In an embodiment, the at least one engagement member 340 is a single engagement member 340. In this embodiment, the actuating frame 324 is positioned on the trailer support device 120 such that the single engagement member 340 is positioned along the depth of one treads 262 of the plurality of treads 262 when the actuating frame 324 is in the unactuated position.

[0202] In an alternate embodiment such as shown in Figures 1A to 7B, the at least one engagement member 340 is the plurality of engagement members 340. In this embodiment, each engagement member 340 of the plurality of engagement members 340 corresponds to a unique frailer support element 260 of the plurality of trailer support elements 260. The plurality of engagement members 340 are positioned on the actuating frame 324 such that each engagement member 340 of plurality of engagement members 340 extends to a height that is greater than a height of the corresponding trailer support element 260 of the plurality of frailer support elements 260.

[0203] In at least some embodiments of the actuating frame 324 that includes the plurality of engagement members 340, the plurality of engagement members 340 are evenly spaced apart on the actuating frame 324 and are substantially identical.

[0204] In an additional embodiment such as shown in Figures 4 to 7B, the plurality of engagement members 340 are formed as a plurality of flanged bars. The plurality of flanged bars are mounted onto the angled plate on top of the multi-part linkage form of the actuating frame 324. Each flanged bar of the plurality of flanged bars is mounted on the angled plate so as to extend upwards therefrom. The plurality of flanged bars are spaced apart from each other on the angled plate and are oriented thereon such that as the actuating frame 324 pivots between the unactuated and actuated positions, each flange bar maintains a substantially vertical orientation.

[0205] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 4 to 7B, the plurality of flanged bars include a single extended flange 340a and three short flanges 340b. The extended flange 340a is positioned as the uppermost flanged bar of the plurality of flanged bars and is mounted on the angular plate 333 proximate a top end of the angular plate 333. The three short flanges 340b are spaced apart from the extended flange 340a, at regular intervals along the length of the angular plate 333.

[0206] In an additional embodiment such as provided in Figures 4 to 7B, each of the plurality of flanged bars include a cushioning element 342 positioned on a rear-facing side thereof. The cushioning element 342 is structured for absorbing at least some of the force of the impact that occurs when the frailer abuts one of the plurality of flanged bars. The cushioning element 342 can have various structures and configurations, provided it provides a suitable degree of cushioning to the impact of the trailer.

[0207] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 4 to 7B, the cushioning element 342 connected to each flanged bar of the plurality of flanged bars includes a ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMW) ware strip. The UHMW ware strip is connected to the flanged bar via fasteners held in a bar of bore holes 342b on the UHMW ware strip.

[0208] In an additional embodiment such as provided in Figures 4 to 7B, the front pivoting linkage 326 of the actuating frame 324 is formed as an extended front pivoting linkage 326. The second portion 310b of the base plate 310 on which the main support bracket 318 is mounted includes a through-slot (not shown). The front pivoting linkage 326 is pivotably connected to one pivot point on the main support bracket 318 such that part of the front pivoting linkage 326 (including the second end thereof) extends upwards relative to the second portion 310b of the base plate 310, while another part of the front pivoting linkage 326 (including the first end thereof) extends down and through the through-slot such that the first end of the front pivoting linkage 326 is disposed below the base plate 310. The through-slot is sized to be sufficiently large to allow the movement of the front pivoting linkage 326 relative to the second portion 310b as the actuating frame 324 pivots between the unactuated and actuated positions.

[0209] In another, additional embodiment, the actuating frame 324 includes a connection linkage 373 that is connected between one of the front and rear pivoting linkages 326, 328 and the blocking element 370 for operably connecting the actuating frame 324 to the blocking element 370. The connection linkage 373 is connected to the blocking element 370 such that as the actuating frame 324 moves from the unactuated position to the actuated position, the connection linkage 373 drives the blocking element 370 to pivot about the base plate 310 from the blocking position towards the non-blocking position.

[0210] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 6A and 6B, the connection linkage 373 is a bar-shaped linkage with opposing first and second ends. The first end of the connection linkage 373 is pivotably connected to the second end of the extended front pivoting linkage 326, and the second end of the connection linkage 734 is connected to the blocking element 370. The pivoting connection of the first and second ends of the connection linkage 373 can be through various pivoting assemblies, such as through an assembly like the pivot assembly structure 322 described above.

[0211] In an embodiment, the blocking element 370 is movably connected to the base plate 310 for moving thereabout between the blocking and non-blocking positions.

[0212] In an additional embodiment such as provided in Figures 6A to 7B, the blocking element 370 is pivotably connected to the base plate 310 frame for pivoting thereabout between the blocking and unblocking positions. The pivoting connection of the blocking element 370 on the base plate 310 defines a first pivot point 327a of the blocking element.

[0213] In another additional embodiment such as shown in Figures 6A to 7B, the actuating frame 324 is pivotably connected to the blocking element 370 (via the connection linkage 373) at a connection point (i.e., a second pivot point 372b) that is offset from the first pivot point 372a. When the blocking element 370 is in the non-blocking position and the trailer support device 120 is moved out of the supporting position, a magnitude of a first moment about the first pivot point 327a of the blocking element 370 due to the weight of the blocking element 370 is greater than a magnitude of a second moment about the first pivot point 327a due to a weight of the actuating frame 324 applied at the second pivot point 327b. With this configuration of the connection between the connection linkage 373 and blocking element 370, the magnitude of the first moment is sufficiently greater than the magnitude of the second moment such that the blocking element 370 is biased towards the blocking position.

[0214] In an additional embodiment such as shown in Figures 6A to 7B, the blocking element 370 comprises a control arm 372 that is pivotably connected to the base plate 310 for pivoting thereabout as the blocking element 370 is driven between the blocking and non-blocking positions. The blocking element 370 also comprises a cover plate 371 that is connected to the control arm 372 and that is sized and / or shaped to substantially cover and substantially block the indicator element 374 when the blocking element 370 is in the blocking position.

[0215] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 4 to 7B, the blocking element 370 includes the control arm 372 and the cover plate 371. In this same embodiment, the mounting plate 316 includes a secondary support bracket 360 that is connected on the second surface of the mounting plate 316. The secondary support bracket 360 can be integrally formed as part of the mounting plate 316 or the secondary support bracket 360 can be an independent piece that is releasably or fixedly connected to the base plate 310 (such as by fasteners or by welding). The cover plate 371 is mounted towards a free, first end of the control arm 372 and second end of the control arm 372 is pivotably connected to the secondary support bracket 360. The pivoting connection of the secondary support bracket 360 and second end of the control arm 372 defines the first pivot point 372a. The control arm 372 is pivotably connected to the base plate 310 such that in the blocking position, the cover plate 371 is substantially vertical.

[0216] In at least some embodiments, the pivoting connection of the secondary support bracket 360 and control arm 372 also utilizes the above-described pivoting assembly structure 322. In these embodiments, one of the secondary support bracket 360 and control arm 372 include a pin element 322a that is mounted therethrough, and the other of the secondary support bracket and control arm 372 include a pair of mounting apertures. The pin element 322a on the one of the secondary support bracket and control arm 372 is rotatably supported within the pair of mounting apertures such that the control arm 372 can pivot about the secondary support bracket 360.

[0217] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 5 A and 5B, the control arm 372 includes a pivot flange 372c that extends outwards, at an acute angle relative to the length of the control arm 372. The mounting plate 316 also includes a receiving slot 361 that is positioned on an interior of the mounting plate 316, proximate the secondary support bracket 360. The connection linkage 373 extends from its pivoting connecting with the first end of the extended front pivoting linkage 326, through the receiving slot 361, and is pivotably connected to the pivot flange 372c of the control arm 372 such that the second pivot point 372b is defined on the pivot flange 372c. The receiving slot 361 is sized to provide sufficient clearance to allow the connection linkage 373 to pivot between various angular positions as the actuating frame 324 is driven between the unactuated and actuated positions.

[0218] In at least some embodiments, the pivoting connection of the pivot flange 372c on the control arm 372 and the connection linkage 373 utilizes the above-described pivoting assembly structure 322. In these embodiments, one of the connection linkage 373 and pivot flange 372c include the pin element 322a that is mounted therethrough, and the other of the connection linkage 373 and pivot flange 372c include the pair of mounting apertures.

[0219] In an embodiment such as shown in Figures 4 to 7B, the assembly 300 further comprises at least one biasing element 350 that is connected between the actuating frame 324 and the base plate 310 for biasing the actuating frame 324 towards the unactuated position. In this way, the actuating frame 324 is driven to return to the unactuated position when a trailer is not abutting against the at least one engagement member 340.

[0220] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 4 to 7B, the biasing element is formed as a single extension spring 350a. The first portion 310a (i.e., first flanged plate) of the base plate 310 include an interior slot formed thereon. A shaft is mounted between flanged portions of the first portion 310a of the base plate 310 such that this shaft is disposed directly below the interior slot. The front pivoting linkage 326 of the actuating frame 324 includes a similar interior slot with a shaft mounted through flanges on the front pivoting linkage 326. Opposing ends of the single extension spring 350a are connected to the shafts on each of the first portion 310a and front pivoting linkage 326.Anti-Pinch Apparatus

[0221] The frailer support device 120 of the present disclosure can, in some embodiments, include an anti-pinch apparatus 700 that is connected to the trailer support device 120. The anti-pinch apparatus 700 (referred to hereinafter as the “apparatus 700”) is generally configured for substantially preventing the “wedging” or “pinching” of the trailer support device 120 underneath the underside of the trailer.

[0222] In an embodiment such as shown in Figures 8 to 10B, the apparatus 700 is structured for maintaining a vertical gap between an underside of a frailer (where the trailer is supported by the landing gear) and a supporting surface (i.e., a given frailer support element 260 of the plurality of frailer support elements 260), when the frailer support device 120 is advanced beneath the frailer in a supporting position. The supporting surface (i.e., frailer support element 260) of the trailer support device 120 is capable of supporting the trailer in the event of a failure or collapse of the landing gear. As noted above, the frailer is generally supported on landing gear, and the frailer support device 120, in at least some embodiments, has the plurality of trailer support elements 260 for supporting the underside of the trailer during a failure or collapse of this landing gear.

[0223] The apparatus 700 generally comprises a base 710 that is connected to the frailer support device 120, and at least one blocking member 720 that corresponds to a corresponding frailer support element 260 of the plurality of frailer support elements 260. The at least one blocking member 720 is movably connected to the base 710 for moving thereabout between a blocking position (shown in Figures 8 and 10A) and a withdrawn position (shown in Figure 10B). The at least one blocking member 720 extends to a predetermined distance above the corresponding frailer support element 260 when in the blocking position.

[0224] As shown in Figure 10A, the apparatus 700 is structured such that when the frailer support device 120 is advanced beneath the trailer in the supporting position and a spacing between the corresponding frailer support element 260 and the underside of the frailer is less than the predetermined distance above the corresponding frailer support element 260, the blocking member 720 blocks the frailer support device 120 from being advanced further beneath the frailer, and the corresponding frailer support element 260 is not located beneath the underside of the trailer. In this way, the at least one blocking member 720 of the apparatus 700 controls whether the underside of the frailer can be advanced over a particular frailer support element 260 of the plurality of trailer support elements 260.

[0225] In the instances where the underside of the frailer is at a height that is too similar to the corresponding trailer support element 260 of the plurality of frailer support elements 260 (i.e. the spacing is less than or equal to the predetermined distance), then the blocking member 720 will block the underside of the frailer from lining up over this particular frailer support element 260. Because the at least one blocking member 720 blocks the frailer from lining up over this corresponding frailer support element 260, the frailer will be forced down towards a secondary frailer support element that is adjacent the corresponding trailer support element 260, but at a lower height. Said another way, the at least one blocking member 720 is structured such that when the blocking member 720 blocks the frailer support device 120 from being advanced further under the frailer, the secondary frailer support element adjacent the corresponding frailer support element 260 is located beneath the underside of the frailer such that the secondary frailer support element provides the supporting surface capable of supporting the trailer in the event of a failure of the landing gear.

[0226] The apparatus 700 is also structured such that when the trailer support device 120 is advanced beneath the trailer and the spacing between the corresponding trailer support element 260 and the underside 160a of the trailer is greater than the predetermined distance above the corresponding trailer support element 260, the blocking member 720 permits the trailer support device 120 to be advanced further beneath the trailer 160, and the corresponding trailer support element 260 becomes located beneath the underside 160a of the trailer such that the underside 160a of the trailer can collapse onto the corresponding trailer support element 260 (in the event of a failure or collapse of the landing gear). When the height of the trailer is above the predetermined distance, the at least one blocking member 720 does not obstruct the movement of the trailer relative to the corresponding trailer support element 260, and the trailer can be advanced such that the underside 160a of the trailer is disposed above the corresponding trailer support element 260. In this way, the at least one blocking member 720 allows the trailer support device 120 to be readily withdrawn from underneath the trailer 160, as the at least one blocking member 720 provides no obstruction to the movement of the trailer when in the withdrawn position. The corresponding trailer support element 260 provides the supporting surface capable of supporting the trailer in the event of a failure of the landing gear.

[0227] In at least some embodiments of the present disclosure, the at least one blocking member 720 of the apparatus 700 is structured, when in the blocking position, to prevent the trailer from advancing folly along the corresponding trailer support element 260 and abutting a riser 261 adjacent the corresponding trailer support element 260. In this way, the at least one blocking member 720 acts to prevent the trailer from being folly received above the corresponding trailer support element 260.

[0228] In an embodiment such as shown in Figures 7B and 7C, the at least one blocking member 720 is the plurality of blocking members 720, and each blocking member 720of the plurality of blocking members 720 is positioned on the base 710 such that in the blocking position, the at least one blocking face 722 of each blocking member 720 is disposed in-front of the riser 261 of the corresponding trailer support element 260. By positioning the blocking members 720 in this way, a trailer being advanced above and along the corresponding trailer support element 260 at a height below the predetermined distance abuts the blocking member 720 and be substantially prevented from being folly received over the corresponding trailer support element 260.

[0229] In an additional embodiment of the disclosure such as shown in Figures 10A to 10B, the at least one blocking member 720 is pivotably connected to the base 710 for pivoting from the blocking position towards the withdrawn position in a first rotational direction, and for pivoting from the withdrawn position towards the blocking position in a second rotational direction opposite the first. Said another way, the at least one blocking member 720 is pivotably connected to the base 710 for pivoting back-and-forth between the blocking and withdrawn positions in opposing first and second rotational directions.

[0230] In an additional embodiment, the at least one blocking member 720 is eccentrically, pivotably connected to the base 710 such that lowering the frailer onto the at least one member 720 drives the at least one blocking member 720 to eccentrically pivot from the blocking position to the withdrawn position. By eccentrically connecting the blocking members on the base 710 of the apparatus 700, the area over which the underside of the frailer can contact the blocking member 720 (as the frailer is lowered towards the frailer support element) and still cause the blocking member 720 to pivot in the first rotational direction is larger. This configuration of the blocking member provides an eccentric contact point between the blocking member and the underside of the trailer, where contact at this eccentric contact point generates a moment, and thereby causes the blocking member 720 to pivot in the first rotational direction towards the withdrawn position.Second Embodiment of the Indicator Assembly

[0231] In an embodiment such as shown in Figure 8 to 10B, the indicator assembly 130 is the second embodiment of the assembly 500, and the anti-pinch apparatus 700 is integrated as part of the assembly 500. In the various embodiments of the present disclosure, the assembly 500 can include some or all of the aforementioned elements of the assembly 300 and / or the indicator assembly 130.

[0232] In an embodiment such as provided in Figures 8 to 10B, the assembly 500 includes the actuating frame 324 as described above, and the at least one engagement member 340 is a single engagementmember 340 thatis formed on top of the angled plate 333 of the actuating frame 324. The anti-pinch apparatus 700 is mounted on the actuating frame 324 and includes the plurality of blocking members 720. Eachblocking member 720 includes at least first and second ends and a pivot point about which the blocking member 720 is pivotably connected to a base 710 of the anti-pinch apparatus 700.

[0233] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 8 to 10B, the integrated anti-pinch apparatus 700 is mounted on the angled plate 333 of the actuating frame 324. The single engagement member 340 is a single flanged plate which is positioned towards a top end of the angled plate 333. The base 710 of the anti-pinch apparatus 700 includes a pair of mount flanges 712 that are connected on the angled plate 333 and are arranged to extend substantially vertically upwards from the angled plate 333. The pair of mount flanges 712 are laterally spaced apart to define a gap therebetween, and a number of support gussets 714 are mounted between the angled plate 333 and each end of pair of mount flanges 712 for supporting the mount flanges 712 on the angled plate 333. Each mount flange 712 of the pair of mount flange 712 is configured as a stepped mount flange 712a that has a thin, polygonal form. A top edge of each stepped mount flange 712a includes a plurality of flange treads 712b and a plurality of flange risers 712c that at least partially correspond to the plurality of treads 262 and the plurality of risers 261 of the stepped inner and outer plates 252, 254 on the frailer support device 200a. The pair of mount flanges 712 are aligned with each other such that the plurality of flange treads 712b and the plurality of flange risers 712c of one of them stepped mount flanges 712a align with the plurality of flange treads 712b and the plurality of flange risers 712c of the other stepped mount flange 712a.

[0234] In at least some embodiments, the stepped mount flanges 712a are positioned on the angled plate 333 such that each set of aligned treads 712b on the mount flanges 712 corresponds to a unique frailer support element 260 of the plurality of frailer support elements 260 of the pair of stepped support assemblies 250.

[0235] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 8 to 10B, the plurality of blocking elements 720 are formed as a plurality of curved blocking fingers 720a. The plurality of blocking fingers 720a are sandwiched between the pair of mount flanges 712 and are pivotably connected to each of the pair of mount flanges 712 for pivoting between the blocking position (shown in Figures 8 and 10A), and the withdrawn position (shown in Figure 10B). The plurality of blocking fingers 720a are positioned at regular intervals along pair of stepped mount flanges 712a such that each of the plurality of blocking fingers 720a corresponds to a unique set of aligned treads 712b on each of the pair of stepped mount flanges 712a.

[0236] In an additional embodiment, the first end of each blocking finger 720a is a first contact end, and the second end of each blocking finger 720a is a free second end. Each blocking finger 720a includes a through aperture disposed along the length of the blocking finger 720a that defines the pivot point of the blocking finger 720a. Each blocking finger 720a is pivotably connected to the mounting flanges 712 via a shaft element that is mounted through the through aperture of the blocking finger 720a. The shaft element is received through the through aperture of the blocking finger 720a and is mounted between the pair of mount flanges 712. The blocking finger 720a can pivot about the shaft element for moving between the blocking and the withdrawn positions.

[0237] In an embodiment, the apparatus 700 includes at least one stopper element 750 that corresponds to the at least one blocking member 720. The at least one stopper element 750 is positioned relative to the at least one blocking member 720 on the base 710 such that when the at least one blocking member 720 is in the blocking position, a portion of the blocking member 720 abuts the stopper element 750 and thereby prevent fiirther rotation of the at least one blocking member 720 in the second rotational direction. The stopper element 750 effectively provides a “hard stop” for the motion of the at least one blocking member 720 in the second rotational direction so that the at least one blocking member 720 cannot be pushed past the blocking position when the frailer abuts the at least one blocking member 720.

[0238] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 8A to 9, the plurality of stopper elements 750 are formed as a plurality of stopper bolts 750a. These stopper bolts 750a are mounted on the mounting flanges 712 and are positioned below the pivot point of the associated blocking finger 720a. The positioning of the stopper bolts 750a is such that the second free end of each blocking finger 720a will abut an associated stopper bolt 750a when the blocking finger 720a is in the blocking position, thereby preventing the blocking finger 720a from being rotated any further in the second rotational direction. It will be readily apparent that the stopper bolts 750a do not inhibit the motion ofthe blocking finger 720a in the first rotational direction at all, and as such the blocking finger 720a is able to rotate relatively freely towards the withdrawn position when the trailer is lowered down on top of the blocking finger 720a.Height-Adjustable Trailer Support Device

[0239] Referring to Figures HA to 18B, there is provided a second embodiment of the trailer support device 120 where the trailer support device 120 is configured as a height-adjustable, trailer support device 400 for supporting the trailer.

[0240] In an embodiment such as shown in Figures 11A to 16 and 18A to 18B, the height-adjustable trailer support device 400 comprises a base unit 410, at least one trailer support element 412 that is structured for engaging an underside of the trailer, and at least one lift energizing assembly for driving a movement of the at least one trailer support element 412 relative to the base unit 410. The at least one lift energizing assembly may be any type of lift energizing assembly known to persons skilled in this art that is capable of driving a movement of the at least one trailer support element 412 relative to the base unit 410, such as, for example, but not limited to, a mechanical lift energizing assembly or a lift energizing assembly utilizing fluid mechanics, including pneumatics or hydraulics. The at least one lift energizing assembly comprises a first lift element that is connected between the base unit 410 and the at least one trailer support element 412 for driving a movement of the at least one trailer support element 412 relative to the base unit 410, a second lift element that is in connection with the first lift element, a one-way controller that is connected between the first and second lift elements for preventing the energizing of the second lift element in favour of the first lift element, and a directional controller that is in parallel connection with the one-way controller, between the first and second lift elements.

[0241] The at least one lift energizing assembly also comprises a primary biasing element 430 that is removably connectable to the second lift element for selectively energizing the second lift element, as well as an actuatable element 440 that is movably mounted to the base unit 410 for actuating between at least first and second positions relative to the base unit 410. The actuatable element 440 is operatively connected to the directional controller and the primary biasing element 430 such that when the actuatable element 440 is in the first position relative to the base unit 410, the directional controller is closed and the primary biasing element 430 is coupled to the second lift element, and when the actuatable element 440 is in the second position relative to the base unit 410, the directional controller is open and the primary biasing element 430 is decoupled from the second lift element. The decoupling of the primary biasing element 430 from the second lift element is such that second lift element is not energized via the primary biasing element 430.

[0242] In the embodiment depicted in Figures 11A to 16 and 18A to 18B, the at least one energizing assembly is at least one hydraulic energizing assembly 450. The at least one hydraulic energizing assembly 450 comprises a first hydraulic cylinder 420 that is connected between the base unit 410 and the at least one frailer support element 412 for driving a movement of the at least one trailer support element 412 relative to the base unit 410, a second hydraulic cylinder 422 that is in fluid connection with the first hydraulic cylinder 420, a one-way valve 210 that is fluidly connected between the first and second hydraulic cylinders 420, 422 for preventing the flow of a hydraulic fluid from the first hydraulic cylinder 420 to the second hydraulic cylinder 422, and a directional control valve 220 that is in parallel fluid connection with the one-way valve 210, between the first and second hydraulic cylinders 420, 422.

[0243] The at least one hydraulic energizing assembly 450 also comprises a primary biasing element 430 that is removably connectable to the second hydraulic cylinder 422 for selectively pressurizing a hydraulic fluid within the second hydraulic cylinder 422, as well as an actuatable element 440 that is movably mounted to the base unit 410 for actuating between at least first and second positions relative to the base unit 410. The actuatable element 440 is operatively connected to the directional control valve 220 and the primary biasing element 430 such that when the actuatable element 440 is in the first position relative to the base unit 410, the directional control valve 220 is closed and the primary biasing element 430 is coupled to the second hydraulic cylinder 422, and when the actuatable element 440 is in the second position relative to the base unit 410, the directional control valve 220 is open and the primary biasing element 430 is decoupled from the second hydraulic cylinder 422. The decoupling of the primary biasing element 430 from the second hydraulic cylinder 422 is such that hydraulic fluid within the second hydraulic cylinder 422 is not pressurized via the primary biasing element 430.

[0244] In an embodiment, the hydraulic fluid may comprise any fluid suitable for use as a medium for hydraulically transferring power. Some such fluids may be substantially incompressible under expected operating conditions. For example, the hydraulic fluid may include one or more of water, propylene glycol, a petroleum -based oil, and / or a synthetic oil.

[0245] In an embodiment of the height-adjustable trailer support device 400 such as provided in Figures 11 A to 16 and 18A to 18B, the height-adjustable trailer support device 400 is formed as a height-adjustable, stabilizing trailer support device 400 that can independently adjust a height of the at least one trailer support element 412 for supporting the trailer at a variety of heights and in a variety of load conditions. The height-adjustable, stabilizing trailer support device 400 includes the base unit 410 and the at least one trailer support element 412.

[0246] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 11A to 16 and 18A to 18B, the at least one trailer support element 412 is a substantially horizontal bar 412a that is laterally oriented about the base unit 410. The at least one hydraulic energizing assembly 450 of the height-adjustable trailer support device 400 is a pair hydraulic energizing assemblies 450 and the first hydraulic cylinders 420 of each of the pair of hydraulic energizing assemblies 450 are connected to opposing ends of the substantially horizontal bar 412a for varying a height at which the substantially horizontal bar 412a is positioned relative to the base unit 410.

[0247] In an alternate embodiment, the atleastone trailer support element 412 is a pair of trailer support platforms, where the pair of trailer support platforms are connected to separate first hydraulic cylinders 420 of one of the pair of hydraulic energizing assemblies 450.

[0248] In an embodiment such as shown in 11A to 16 and 18A to 18B, the base unit 410 of the height-adjustable trailer support device 400 is structured for supporting the height-adjustable trailer support device 400 on a ground surface.

[0249] In the specific embodiment of the height-adjustable trailer support device 400 provided in Figures 11A to 16 and 18A to 18B, the height-adjustable trailer support device 400 includes the base unit 410, and the base unit 410 includes pairs of front and rear legs 160, 161, as well as front and rear cross supports 162, 163 extending between each of the pairs of front and rear legs 160, 161. The pairs of front and rear legs 160, 161 are pairs of substantially vertical legs with substantially rectangular cross-sections. Each of the front and rear legs 160, 161 are supported on a bottom plate 164 such that each of the front and rear legs 160, 161 are normal to the bottom plate 164. The front cross support 162 is connected to a top surface of each front leg and the rear cross support 163 is connected to a top surface of each rear leg 161.

[0250] In an embodiment, any of the pairs of front and rear legs 160, 161 and the front and rear cross-supports 162, 163 may be made from various forms of stock metal tubing.

[0251] Referring again to Figures 11A to 16 and 18A to 18B, between each of the front legs and each of the rear legs 161 is a leg bracing member 165 which keeps the legs 160, 161 apart and prevents the legs 160, 161 from twisting relative to each other in the case where the ground surface on which the height-adjustable frailer support device 400 sits is not level. The leg bracing member 165 may be formed from a metal plate, such as rolled steel plate.

[0252] In an embodiment, the structure of the height-adjustable frailer support device 400 also includes angled support beams 166 which are mounted on, and which extend between each of the front and rear legs 160, 161 and each of the front and rear cross supports 162, 163. The angled support beams 166 may be welded in place between the cross supports and the legs or may be secured by fasteners such as rivets.

[0253] In the embodiment of Figures HAto 16 and 18A to 18B, the bottom plate 164 upon which one of front and rear legs 160, 161 are each mounted are themselves mounted on a pair of support blocks 167 via a pair of angle brackets 168. The bottom plate 164 can be secured to the bottom of the front and rear legs 160, 161 by welding. The angle brackets 168 that secure the bottom plate 164 on the support blocks 167 can also be secured in place by fasteners which are threaded into the bottom plate 164 and each of the support blocks 167. In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 11 A to 16 and 18 A to 18B, the fastener is a threaded bolt.

[0254] In the specific embodiment of Figures 11A to 16 and 18A to 18B, two gussets 169 are mounted in place between the bottom plate 164 and each of the front and rear legs 160, 161, to fiirther secure the legs on the bottom plate 164. In a fiirther embodiment, the gussets 169 are welded in place between the bottom plate 164 and legs 160, 161.

[0255] In an embodiment such as shown in Figures 11A to 16 and 18A to 18B, the height-adjustable trailer support device 400 also includes a pair of housing assemblies 470 that are each sized to house one of the pair of hydraulic energizing assemblies 450. The pair of housing assemblies 470 are disposed on left and right sides of the front and rear cross supports 162, 163 of the height-adjustable trailer support device 400. Each housing assembly 470 sits atop and is connected to the front cross support 162 of the front pair of legs and the back cross support 163 of the back pair of legs 161 . Each housing assembly 470 comprises an L-shaped inner plate 472, an L-shaped outer plate 474, a plurality of frame members 476 extending between the L-shaped inner and outer plates 472, 474, and a pair of bumpers 478 mounted in a space between an upper region of the L-shaped inner and outer plates 472, 474.

[0256] The L-shaped inner and outer plates 472, 474 of each housing assembly 470 are mounted in an upright orientation and are sized to traverse the gap between the front and rear cross supports 162, 163 and to extend beyond the pair of front and rear legs 160, 161. The plurality of frame members 476 of each housing assembly 470 extend between and are connected between the L-shaped inner and outer plates 472, 474, to support the L-shaped inner and outer plates 472, 474 in their upright orientations.

[0257] Referring to Figures 11A to 16 and 18A to 18B, the pair of bumpers 478 are positioned towards an upper portion of the L-shaped inner plate 472 and L-shaped outer plate 474 such that when the trailer support element 412 is positioned for supporting the trailer (such as in the second position), the trailer support element 412 will vertically support the trailer, while the pair of bumpers 478 will dampen any to- and-fro and up-and-down movement of the trailer relative to the height-adjustable trailer support device 400. The bumper 478 prevents metal- on-metal contact between the L-shaped inner and outer plates 472, 474, and a front-end surface of a trailer that is to be supported on the height-adjustable trailer support device 400. Each of the pair of bumpers 478 has a substantially rectangular shape.

[0258] In an embodiment, the bumper 478 is composed of an elastic material, such as for example, a plurality of rubber or elastic plates. In another embodiment, the elastic material is a single piece of molded rubber or plastic.

[0259] In the specific embodiments of the height-adjustable trailer support device 400 provided in Figures HA to 16 and 18A to 18B, the base unit 410 of the height-adjustable trailer support device 400 includes a plurality of hook-shaped members 480 projecting in a rearward direction from the height-adjustable trailer support device 400. In this embodiment, the hooked form of each of the hook-shaped members 480 defines a channel portion therein.

[0260] In the embodiment shown in Figures 11A to 16 and 18A to 18B, each of the plurality of hook-shaped members 480 are formed in one of the L-shaped inner and outer plates 472, 474 of the pair of housing assemblies 470. The plurality of hook-shaped members 480 are disposed at corresponding heights about at least one rear surface of the height-adjustable trailer support device 400 and are transversely spaced along the at least one rear surface of the height-adjustable trailer support device 400.

[0261] In an additional embodiment, the height-adjustable trailer support device 400 is structured to be lifted and maneuvered about the ground surface by an external lifting apparatus that is attached to a vehicle. When the height-adjustable trailer support device 400 is structured to be lifted by the external lifting apparatus, the base unit 410 is structured for releasably connecting to the external lifting apparatus for lifting the height-adjustable trailer support device 400.

[0262] In an embodiment such as shown in Figure 11 A, the cylinder housing of the first hydraulic cylinder 420 is mounted to the base unit 410 and a free end of the cylinder rod 420a is connected to the frailer support element 412.

[0263] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 11 A and 1 IB, the cylinder housing of the first hydraulic cylinder 420 of each of the pair of hydraulic energizing assemblies 450 is a rectangular housing and is mounted between the L-shaped outer plate 474 and L-shaped inner plate 472 of one of the pair of housing assemblies 470. The substantially horizontal bar 412a includes a pair of threaded apertures, the free end of the cylinder rod 420a of each first hydraulic cylinder 420 is threaded and the free ends of the cylinder rods 420a of the first hydraulic cylinders 420 are removably mounted through one of the pair of threaded apertures.

[0264] The hydraulic energizing assembly 450 includes the second hydraulic cylinder 422 that is operably connected to the actuatable element 440 and the base unit 410. The second hydraulic cylinder 422 generally includes a cylinder housing and a cylinder rod 422a.

[0265] In an embodiment, the cylinder housing of the second hydraulic cylinder 422 is mounted to the base unit 410 and a free end of the cylinder rod 422a is connected to the actuatable element 440.

[0266] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 11A to 16 and 18A to 18B, the cylinder housing of the second hydraulic cylinder 422 of each of the pair of hydraulic energizing assemblies 450 is a rectangular housing and is mounted between the L-shaped outer plate 474 and L-shaped inner plate 472 of one of the pair of housing assemblies 470.

[0267] In an embodiment, the actuatable element 440 of the hydraulic energizing assembly 450 is formed as an actuatable member and is movably mounted on the base unit 410 for moving between first and second positions.Third Embodiment of the Indicator Assembly

[0268] Referring to Figures HAto 18B, there is shown the third embodiment of the indicator assembly 130 that is formed as the assembly 600. In the various embodiments of the present disclosure, the assembly 600 can include some or all of the aforementioned elements of the assembly 300, the assembly 500 and / or the indicator assembly 130. For example, Figures HAto 18B show an embodiment of the assembly 600 where the blocking element 370, connection linkage 373 and biasing element 350 are substantially the same as the described above with reference to Figures 1A to 7B.

[0269] Referring to Figures 11A to 16B and 18A to 18B, the assembly 600 is shown connected on the height-adjustable trailer support device 400, and the assembly 600 includes the base plate 310.

[0270] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 11A to 18B, the base plate 310 is mounted substantially along a longitudinal centerline of the height-adjustable trailer support device 400. The base plate 310 includes the first portion 310a formed as the first flanged plate, and the second portion 310b formed of the second flanged plate mounted to the first flanged plate. The base plate 310 also includes the mounting plate 316 that extends downwards, substantially perpendicular to the first and second flanged plates. The mounting plate 316 includes the interior slot 312 and receiving slot 361 formed thereon, while the first flanged plate includes a flange 314 that extends out of a first end of the first flanged plate.

[0271] The embodiment provided in Figures HA to 18B illustrates a non-limiting example ofhow the base plate 310 with the first, second and third portions 310a, 310b, 310c can be mounted to the height-adjustable trailer support device 400. In this specific embodiment, the base plate 310 is mounted on the height-adjustable trailer support device 400 such that the base plate 310 substantially spans a gap between front and rear cross supports 462, 463 on the height-adjustable trailer support device 400. The second portion 401b of the is connected on the front cross support 462 and the mounting plate 316 of the base plate 310 is held is connected to the rear cross support 463. The second surface of the mounting plate 316 (opposite the first surface) is held against an inner face of the rear cross support 462, and the base plate 310 spans the gap between the front and rear cross supports 462, 463 such that the second portion 310b is mounted at least partially atop the front cross support 462. The base plate 310 is arranged such that the mounting plate 316 extends downwards from the rear cross-support 463 and a distal end of the mounting plate 316 is disposed in a space between front and rear legs 460, 461 of the height-adjustable trailer support device.

[0272] In an additional embodiment such as shown in Figures HA to 12, 16 and 18A to 18B, the base plate 310 of the assembly 600 is mounted to the trailer support device 120 (e.g, the height-adjustable trailer support device 400) via the at least one securing element that is connected between the base plate 310 and the trailer support device 120. In some embodiments, the at least one securing element can be a permanent securing element, such as a rivet, for permanently securing the base plate 310 to the trailer support device 120. In at least some other embodiments, the at least one securing element is a removable securing element, such as a threaded screw, for releasably securing the base plate 310 to the trailer support device 120.

[0273] In the embodiment shown in Figures 11A to 12, 16 and 18A to 18B, the at least one securing element includes the pair of first securing elements 354 and the pair of second securing elements 356. The pair of first securing elements 354 are connectable to one of the first or third portions 310a, 310c of the base plate 310 for connecting the first or third portion 310a, 310c to the rear cross support 462. Thepair of second securing elements 356 are connectable to the second portion 310b of the base plate 310 for connecting the second portion 310b to the front cross support 463.

[0274] The assembly 600 also includes the actuating frame, where the actuating frame 324 is pivotably coupled to the base plate 310 of the assembly 600 via the pair of pivot points. The actuating frame 324 includes the at least one engagement member 340.

[0275] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 11 A to 18B, the actuating frame 324 is pivotably connected to the main support bracket 319 on the second portion 310b (i.e., the second flanged plate) of the base plate 310. The actuating frame 324 includes the pair of forward mounting apertures 335 and the pair of rear mounting apertures 336. The forward and rear mounting apertures 335, 336 are positioned on the actuating frame 324 such that when the actuating frame 324 is being connected to the main support bracket 318, the pair of forward apertures 335 will substantially align with the first mounting apertures on the bracket flanges 319, the pair of rear apertures 336 will substantially align with the second mounting apertures on the bracket flanges 319. In this way, the forward and rear mounting apertures 335, 336 define the pair of pivot points on the actuating frame 324.

[0276] In at least some embodiments, the first and second mounting apertures and the forward and rear mounting apertures 335, 336 on the actuating frame 324 form part of the pivoting assembly structure 322 for providing the pivoting connection between the main support bracket 318 and the actuating frame 324.

[0277] Various structures, configurations, and arrangements of the actuating frame 324 may be provided as part of the indicator assembly 600 described herein.

[0278] In an embodiment such as shown in Figures 11A to 18B, the actuating frame 324 includes the front pivoting linkage 326, the rear pivoting linkage 328 and the primary linkage 330. Each of the front pivoting linkage 326, rear pivoting linkage 328 and primary linkage 330 include the first and second of opposing ends, where the first end of each of the front and rear pivoting linkages 326, 328 is pivotably connected to the base plate 310, and the primary linkage 330 is connected between the second ends of the forward and rear pivoting linkage 328s such that the primary linkage 330 translates with the front and rear pivoting linkages 326, 328 as the front and rear pivoting linkages 326, 328 pivot about the base plate 310.

[0279] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 11 A to 18B, the forward mounting apertures 335 of the actuating frame 324 are formed on the first end of the front pivoting linkage 326, and the rear mounting apertures 336 are formed on the first end of the rearward pivoting linkage. The first ends of the front and rear pivoting linkages 326, 328 can thereby by pivotably connected to the flanges 319 of the main support bracket 318.

[0280] In the various embodiments of the actuating frame 324 that includes the front and rear pivoting linkages 326, 328, the front and rear pivoting linkages 326, 328 can be pivotably connected to different section of the primary linkage 330 via pivoting assemblies (such as the pivoting assembly structure 322) proximate the ends thereof.

[0281] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 17A to 18B, the primary linkage 330 is formed as a single linkage bar 630 that includes lateral flanges. The connection between the second end of each of the front and rear pivoting linkages 326, 328 is provided along the single linkage bar 630. The second end from each of the front and rear pivoting linkages 326, 328 is disposed in a space between the flanges of the single linkage bar 630, and each second end is pivotably connected to the pair of side plates via a suitably pivoting assembly (such as the pivoting assembly structure 322).

[0282] In an embodiment such as shown in Figures 17A to 18B, the at least one engagement element 340 is a single engagement member 340, and the single engagement member 340 is formed as a single flanged bar 640. The single flanged bar 640 is mounted onto a top surface of the single linkage bar 630. The flanged bar 640 is mounted on the top surface of the single linkage bar 630 so as to extend upwards therefrom in a substantially vertical orientation.

[0283] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 17A and 17B, the single flanged bar 640 is positioned towards a front end of the top surface of the single linkage bar 630. A support gusset 632 is connected between a front-facing side of the single flanged bar 640 and the top surface of the single linkage bar 630. The support gusset 632 can be welded in places or secure by other suitable means.

[0284] In an additional embodiment such as provided in Figures 11 A to 18B, the single flanged bar 640 include a cushioning element that is positioned on a rear-facing side thereof. The cushioning element is structured for absorbing at least some of the force of the impact that occurs when the trailer abuts the single flanged bar 640.

[0285] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 11A to 18B, the cushioning element on the single flanged bar 640 includes a UHMW ware strip. The UHMW ware strip is connected to the single flanged bar 640 via an adhesive.

[0286] As discussed above, when the trailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400 is in a supporting position having at least a portion of the trailer support device underneath the forward end of a parked trailer, the trailer support device may be operative to provide support to the parked trailer during loading and / or unloading of materiaFgoods / contents to or from the trailer. As also discussed above, in one example, the trailer support element 260, 412 of the trailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400 may be actively in contact with an underside of the trailer, such as, for example, in the case of the height-adjustable trailer support device 400. As forther discussed above, the trailer support element 260, 412 of the trailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400 may be spaced apart from the underside of the trailer, such as, for example, in the case of the stepped trailer support device 200a, such that a vertical gap exists between the underside of the trailer and the trailer support element 260, 412. Both examples will be explained hereafter.

[0287] In an instance where the trailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400 is in a supporting position that involves the trailer support device initially and thereafter being in contact with the underside of the trailer, the trailer support element 260, 412 (e.g., tread 262 of the step or stepped support assembly 250 or the substantially horizontal bar 412a) will be the portion of the trailer support device contacting the trailer. For purposes of discussion, it may be presumed that the shunt vehicle 102 is disengaged from the trailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400.

[0288] In a case where material / goods / contents are loaded onto the trailer, particularly at the forward end portion of the trailer, and the trailer support element 260, 412 contacts an underside of the trailer, the downward force imparted by the trailer upon the trailer support element 260, 412 of the trailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400 increases as more goods are loaded within the front of the trailer. This increase in downward force is borne by the trailer support element 260, 412 and ultimately by the trailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400. Given that, for example, the trailer support element 260 of the stepped trailer support device 200a is permanently static, and that the trailer support element 412 of the height-adjustable trailer support device 400 can be forced to be static from otherwise being dynamic by the lift energizing assembly, as a result, even if the landing gear of the trailer was to fail, the trailer support element 260, 412, and ultimately the trailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400, is operative to support the entire weight of the forward end portion of the trailer, thus avoiding roll-over or tip-over of the trailer in an instance of landing gear partial or complete failure. A similar sequence applies to a trailer unloaded with the trailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400 in a supporting position.

[0289] Where material / goods / contents are unloaded from the trailer, particularly from the forward end portion of the frailer, and the frailer engagement element contacts an underside of the frailer, the downward forces imparted by the trailer upon the frailer support element 260, 412 of the frailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400 decrease. This decrease in downward forces may lead to a vertical gap being created between the underside of the frailer and the frailer support element 260, 412 (e.g., tread 262 of the step or stepped support assembly 250 or the substantially horizontal bar 412a) as sag associated with the frailer frame at the forward end portion of the frailer is lessened. In the case of the stepped frailer support device 200a, this vertical gap created between the underside of the frailer and the frailer support element 260 is maintained. In the case of the height-adjustable frailer support device 400, a decrease in downward forces on the frailer support element 412 may lead to an extension of the frailer support element 412 such that it maintains contact with the underside of the frailer. In either instance, however, the frailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400 maintains itself in a supporting position so that if the landing gear of the frailer fails, the entire weight of the forward end portion of the frailer is able to be held up by the frailer support device. Those skilled in the art are awareof the dynamic forces imparted upon trailers by forklifts moving therein, as well as pumping fluids within on-board tanks of a semi-trailer, which can cause landing gear failure even when a trailer is being unloaded or is near empty. In the case where the trailer support element 260, 412 of the trailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400 is actively in contact with an underside of the trailer at all times during loading and unloading, the trailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400 may stabilize the trailer against rocking and pitching motions.

[0290] Consequently, supporting of trailers is important in both loading and unloading operations.

[0291] Conversely, in an instance where the trailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400 is in a supporting position that involves the trailer support device initially being spaced apart from the underside of the trailer, the trailer support element 260, 412 (e.g., tread 262 of the step or stepped support assembly 250 or substantially horizontal bar 412a) will be the portion of the trailer support device nearest to the underside of the trailer. For purposes of discussion, it may be presumed that the shunt truck 102 is disengaged from the frailer support device 120, 200, 200a.

[0292] In a case where material / goods / contents are loaded onto the frailer, particularly at the forward end portion of the frailer, the downward forces imparted by the frailer increase. This increase in forces on the trailer may result in the frailer sagging, which may or may not close the original spacing between the frailer support element 260, 412 and the underside of the frailer, which may result in contact between the frailer support device and the underside of the trailer.

[0293] Contact by the trailer onto the frailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400 results in some of the downward forces of the frailer being borne by the frailer support element 260, 412 and ultimately borne by the frailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400. But given that, for example, the frailer support element 260 of the stepped frailer support device 200a is permanently static, and that the trailer support element 412 of the height-adjustable frailer support device 400 can be forced to be static from otherwise being dynamic by the lift energizing assembly, as a result, even if the landing gear of the frailer was to fail, the frailer support element 260, 412, and ultimately the frailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400, is operative to support the entire weight of the forward end portion of the frailer, thus avoiding roll-over or tip-over of the trailer in an instance of landing gear partial or complete failure. Conversely, if a gap is maintained between the trailer and the frailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400, and forces acting on the frailer cause the landing gear to fail, the underside of the frailer will immediately contact the frailer support element 260, 412 (e.g., tread 262 of the step or stepped support assembly 250 or the substantially horizontal bar 412a) in order to support the frailer. Given that, for example, the frailer support element 260 of the stepped frailer support device 200a is permanently static, and that the frailer support element 412 of the height-adjustable frailer support device 400 can be forced to be static from otherwise being dynamic by the lift energizing assembly, as a result, even if the landing gear of the frailer was to fail, the frailer support element 260, 412, and ultimately the frailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400, is operative to support the entire weight of the forward end portion of the trailer, thus avoiding roll -over or tip-over of the frailer in an instance of landing gear partial or complete failure. A similar sequence applies to a frailer unloaded with the frailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400 in a supporting position.

[0294] In a circumstance where the trailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400 is positioned underneath the frailer prior to the frailer being unloaded, and a gap exists between underside of the frailer and the stabilizer, this gap will generally be maintained or slightly increased during unloading of material / goods / contents from the trailer. By way of example, particularly at the forward end portion of the frailer, the downward forces imparted upon the frailer decease as material is unloaded from the front of the frailer, which may result in a lesser sag associated with the frailer frame at the forward end portion of the trailer. If this lessening of sag occurs, the spacing / gap between the frailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400 and the frailer may increase. Nevertheless, the spacing between the frailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400 and the trailer does not negate the support provided if the landing gear of the trailer fails during unloading. In a case of landing gear failure, the forward end portion of the frailer would be repositioned downward and negate any gap between the trailer and frailer support device, thereby coming to rest upon the frailer support element 260, 412 (e.g., tread 262 of the step or stepped support assembly 250 or the substantially horizontal bar 412a). Given that, for example, the trailer support element 260 of the stepped trailer support device 200a is permanently static, and that the frailer support element 412 of the height-adjustable trailer support device 400 can be forced to be static from otherwise beingdynamic by the lift energizing assembly, as a result, even if the landing gear of the trailer was to fail, the trailer support element 260, 412, and ultimately the trailer support device 120, 200, 200a, 400, is operative to support the entire weight of the forward end portion of the trailer, thus avoiding roll-over or tip-over of the trailer in an instance of landing gear partial or complete failure.

[0295] The above-described embodiments are intended to be examples of the present disclosure and alterations and modifications may be affected thereto, by those of skill in the art, without departing from the scope of the disclosure that is defined solely by the claims appended hereto.

[0296] The specific embodiments described above have been shown by way of example, and it should be understood that these embodiments may be susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms. It should be further understood that the above-described embodiments are intended to be examples of the present disclosure and alterations and modifications may be affected thereto, by those of skill in the art, without departing from the scope of the disclosure that is defined solely by the claims appended hereto.Reference Numerals102 shunt vehicle110 lifting apparatus112 support structure120 trailer support device130 indicator assembly200 shuntable trailer support device200a stepped trailer support device210 receiving channel220 hook-shaped members220a hooks222 angled tip portion224 u-shaped channel232 front legs233 front cross support234 rear legs235 rear cross support238 bottom plate242 leg bracing member244 angled support beam245 angle brackets246 support blocks247 fasteners250 stepped support assembly250a pair of stepped support assemblies252 stepped inner plate254 stepped outer plate256 frame members258 plurality of bumperstrailer support element risers treads first embodiment of the indicator assembly base plate a first portion b second portion c third portion interior slot flange mounting flange main support bracket bracket flanges spacer plate stop plate pivoting assembly structure a pin element pair of mounting apertures actuating frame front pivoting linkage a first pivot point b second pivot point rear pivoting linkage primary linkage side plate angled plate brace plates forward mounting aperture rear mounting aperture engagement member a extended flange b short flange cushioning element biasing element a extension spring first securing element a u-bolt second securing element b u-bolt secondary support bracketreceiving slot blocking element cover plate pivot arm / control arm a first pivot point b second pivot point c pivot flange connection linkage indicator element height-adjustable trailer support device base unit trailer support element a horizontal bar first hydraulic cylinder a cylinder rod of first hydraulic cylinder second hydraulic cylinder a cylinder rod of second hydraulic cylinder primary biasing element actuatable element hydraulic energizing assembly rear leg front leg rear cross support front cross support housing assembly1-shaped inner plate1-shaped outer plate frame members bumpers hook-shaped members second embodiment of the indicator assembly third embodiment of the indicator assembly linkage bar support gusset single engagement member anti-pinch apparatus base mount flanges a stepped mount flange b flange treadc flange riser support gussets blocking elements a curved blocking fingers stopper element a stopper bolt

Claims

What is claimed is:1 An assembly for indicating that a trailer support device is in a supporting position beneath a trailer, the trailer support device comprising at least one trailer support element for supporting the trailer such that the supporting position of the trailer support device is a position where the at least one trailer support element is beneath the trailer, the assembly comprising: a blocking element that is movably connected to the trailer support device for moving between a blocking position and a nonblocking position where an indicator element is exposed; an actuating frame that comprises at least one engagement member, the actuating frame being movably connected to the trailer support device for moving between an unactuated position where the at least one engagement member is disposed at a first position relative to the at least one trailer support element, and an actuated position where the at least one engagement member is disposed at a second position relative to the at least one trailer support element; wherein the actuating frame is positioned on the trailer support device such that when the at least one trailer support element of the trailer support device is advanced beneath the trailer into the supporting position, the at least one engagement member abuts the trailer and drives the actuating frame from the unactuated position towards the actuated position; and wherein the blocking element is operably connected to the actuating frame such that as the actuating frame is driven from the unactuated position towards the actuated position, the blocking element is driven from the blocking position to the non-blocking position.

2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the second position is longitudinally more rearward than the first position.

3. The assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein the indicator element is structured for conveying to at least one external sensing system that the trailer support device is in the supporting position beneath the trailer.

4. The assembly of claim 3, wherein the indicator element comprises at least one reflective surface, and the at least one reflective surface is connected on the assembly.

5. The assembly of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one trailer support element on the trailer support device has a front leading edge that defines a vertical plane; and wherein the actuating frame is positioned on the trailer support device such when the at least one engagement member is in the first position, the at least one engagement member is disposed forward of the vertical plane defined by the front leading edge of the at least one trailer support element.

6. The assembly of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the actuating frame is positioned on the trailer support device such when the at least one engagement member is in the second position, the at least one engagement element is disposed rearward of the vertical plane defined by the front leading edge of the at least one trailer support element.

7. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the trailer support device has at least one stepped support assembly with at least one riser and at least one tread that extends forward from the at least one riser; wherein the at least one tread defines the at least one trailer support element; and wherein the actuating frame is positioned on the trailer support device such that when the at least one engagement member is in the first position, at least part of the at least one engagement member is disposed forward of the at least one riser.

8. The assembly of claim 7, wherein the at least one trailer support element is a plurality of trailer support elements; wherein the at least one riser is a plurality of risers and the at least one tread is a plurality of treads corresponding to the plurality of risers; and wherein the plurality of treads define the plurality of trailer support elements.

9. The assembly of claim 8, wherein the at least one engagement member is a single engagement member; and wherein the actuating frame is positioned on the trailer support device such that the single engagement member is positioned along the depth of one tread of the plurality of treads.

10. The assembly of claim 8, wherein the at least one engagement member is a plurality of engagement members; and wherein each engagement member of the plurality of engagement members corresponds to a unique trailer support element of the plurality of trailer support elements.

11. The assembly of claim 10, wherein the plurality of engagement members are positioned on the actuating frame such that each engagement member of plurality of engagement members extends to a height that is greater than a height of the corresponding trailer support element of the plurality of trailer support elements.

12. The assembly of claim 10 or 11, wherein the actuating frame is positioned on the trailer support device such that when the trailer support device is advanced beneath the trailer into the supporting position with at least one trailer support element of the plurality of trailer support elements positioned beneath the trailer, an engagement member that corresponds to the at least one trailer support element abuts the trailer for driving the actuating frame from the unactuated position to the actuated position.

13. The assembly of any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the plurality of engagement members are evenly spaced apart on the actuating frame and are substantially identical.

14. The assembly of claim 1 or 2, further comprising: a base that is connected to the trailer support device; wherein the actuator frame is movably connected to the base for moving thereabout between the unactuated and actuated positions.

15. The assembly of claim 14, wherein the blocking element is movably connected to the base for moving thereabout between the blocking and non-blocking positions.

16. The assembly of claim 14 or 15, wherein the base further comprises at least one securing element for releasably mounting the base to the trailer support device.

17. The assembly of claim 14, further comprising at least one biasing element that is connected between the actuating frame and the base for biasing the actuating frame towards the unactuated position.

18. The assembly of claim 14, wherein the actuating frame comprises a four-bar linkage that is pivotably connected to the trailer support device.

19. The assembly of claim 18, wherein the four-bar linkage comprises a primary linkage; wherein the at least one engagement member is connected to the primary linkage; and wherein the four-bar linkage is pivotably connected to the trailer support device such that in the unactuated position, the primary linkage is in a first longitudinal position about the base, and in the actuated position, the primary linkage is in second longitudinal position about the base that is longitudinally rearward of the first longitudinal position.

20. The assembly of claim 19, wherein the four-bar linkage fiirther comprises: front and rear linkages that are each pivotably connected between the primary linkage and the base; and a connection linkage that is connected between one of the front and rear pivoting linkages and the blocking element for operably connecting the actuating frame to the blocking element.

21. The assembly of claim 19 or 20, wherein a first section of the primary linkage is pivotably connected to the front pivoting linkage and a second section of the primary linkage is pivotably connected to the rear pivoting linkage; and wherein the front pivoting linkage and rear pivoting linkage are each pivotably connected to the base such that the front and rear pivoting linkages pivot about the base as the actuating frame is driven between the unactuated and actuated positions.

22. The assembly of claim 21, wherein the blocking element is pivotably connected to the base frame for pivoting thereabout between the blocking and unblocking positions.

23. The assembly of claim 22, wherein the connection linkage is connected to the blocking element such that as the actuating frame moves from the unactuated position to the actuated position, the connection element drives the blocking element to pivot about the base element from the blocking position towards the non-blocking position.

24. The assembly of claim 22 or 23, wherein the pivoting connection of the blocking element on the base defines a primary pivot axis of the blocking element; and wherein the actuating frame is pivotably connected to the blocking element at a connection point that is offset from the primary pivot axis such that when the blocking element is in the non-blocking position and the trailer support device is moved out of the supporting position, a magnitude of a first moment about the first pivot axis of the blocking element due to the weight of the blocking element is greater than a magnitude of a second moment about the primary pivot axis due to a weight of the actuating frame applied at the connection point; and wherein the magnitude of the first moment is sufficiently greater than the magnitude of the second moment such that the blocking element is biased towards the blocking position.

25. The assembly of any one of claims 14 to 24, wherein the blocking element comprises: a control arm that is pivotably connected to the base for pivoting thereabout as the blocking element is driven between the blocking and non-blocking positions; anda flap element that is connected to the control arm and that is sized and / or shaped to substantially cover and substantially block the indicator element when the blocking element is in the blocking position.

26. The assembly of claim 25, wherein the control arm is pivotably connected to the base such that in the blocking position, the flap element is substantially vertical.

27. The assembly of claim 8, wherein the at least one stepped support assembly is a pair of stepped support assemblies that are disposed on opposing lateral sides of the trailer support device; and wherein the base is structured to be connectable substantially along a centerline of the trailer support device for positioning the at least one engagement member substantially at an equidistance between the pair of stepped support assemblies such that as the trailer support device is advanced into the supporting position under the trailer, the trailer only engages the at least one engagement member if the trailer support device is advanced under the trailer, substantially along the centerline of the trailer support device.

28. A system for determining that a trailer support device is in a supporting position beneath a trailer, the trailer support device comprising at least one trailer support element for supporting the trailer such that the supporting position of the trailer support device is a position where the at least one trailer support element is beneath the trailer, the assembly comprising: a blocking element that is movably connected to the trailer support device for moving between a blocking position and a nonblocking position where an indicator element is exposed; an actuating frame that comprises at least one engagement member, the actuating frame being movably connected to the trailer support device for moving between an unactuated position where the at least one engagement member is disposed at a first position relative to the at least one trailer support element, and an actuated position where the at least one engagement member is disposed at a second position relative to the at least one trailer support element; an external sensing system that is separate from the trailer support device and that is configured to detect the exposed assembly for determining that the trailer support device is in the supporting position beneath the trailer; wherein the actuating frame is positioned on the trailer support device such that when the at least one trailer support element of the trailer support device is advanced beneath the trailer into the supporting position, the at least one engagement member abuts the trailer and drives the actuating frame from the unactuated position towards the actuated position; and wherein the blocking element is operably connected to the actuating frame such that as the actuating frame is driven from the unactuated position towards the actuated position, the blocking element is driven from the blocking position to the non-blocking position.

29. The system of claim 28, wherein the second position is longitudinally more rearward than the first position.

30. The system of claim 28 or 29, wherein the indicator element comprises at least one reflective surface on the assembly and / or the trailer support device.

31. The system of claim 30, wherein the external sensing system is configured to detect the exposed at least one reflective surface when the blocking assembly is driven from the blocking position to the non-blocking position.

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