Trailer drawbar kickstand and locking apparatus

Abstract

A trailer includes a frame, a drawbar movably secured to the frame, a kickstand assembly, and a locking apparatus. The kickstand assembly includes a leg member movably secured to the trailer frame between first and second positions. An end portion of the leg member engages the drawbar when the leg member is in the first position and maintains the drawbar in a generally horizontal orientation. The leg member is disengaged from the drawbar when the leg member is in the second position. An actuator is configured to move the leg member between the first and second positions. The locking apparatus includes a first member secured to the trailer frame, a second member that rotates with the drawbar, and a locking mechanism secured to the second member. The locking mechanism includes a locking member that removably engages the first member and prevents rotation of the drawbar relative to the trailer frame.

Description

[0001] Attorney Docket No. 9757.43. WO

[0002] TRAILER DRAWBAR KICKSTAND AND LOCKING APPARATUS

[0003] RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0004] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 715,283 filed November 1, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference as if set forth in its entirety.

[0005] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The present invention relates generally to trailers and, more particularly, to the towing of trailers.

[0007] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Some military trailers, such as the M1076 trailer 10 illustrated in Fig. 1, typically have a trailer frame 12 and a drawbar 14 rotatably and pivotably secured to the trailer frame 12. These trailers are commonly referred to as “wagon-style” trailers. The drawbar is configured to connect the trailer 10 to a towing vehicle, such as a truck. When not in use, the distal free end of the drawbar 14 for the M1076 trailer 10, as well as for other military wagon-style trailers, typically rests on the ground. To facilitate autonomous or semi-autonomous coupling between a military trailer and a towing vehicle, the distal free end of the drawbar for the trailer needs to be in an elevated, generally horizontal position, for example between 24” to 36” off the ground.

[0009] In addition, when a military wagon-style trailer is backed up by a towing vehicle, it is typically desirable for the drawbar to be fixed relative to the trailer frame so that the drawbar will not rotate relative to the trailer frame. Conventionally, this is done by a person manually inserting a pin into the drawbar and trailer frame to lock the drawbar relative to the trailer frame. To facilitate autonomous or semi-autonomous towing of a military trailer by a towing vehicle, it would be desirable to automate the function of locking the drawbar and trailer frame relative to each other prior to a backing-up operation.

[0010] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] It should be appreciated that this Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form, the concepts being further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary of the Invention is not intended to identify key features or Attorney Docket No. 9757.43. WO essential features of this disclosure, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0012] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a kickstand assembly for maintaining a drawbar, that is pivotably secured to a trailer, in a horizontal orientation includes a leg member and an actuator. The drawbar includes a proximal end portion and an opposite distal free end portion. The leg member includes opposite first and second end portions. The first end portion of the leg member is configured to be pivotably secured to a frame of the trailer such that the leg member is pivotable between a first position and a second position. The second end portion of the leg member engages a portion of the drawbar (e.g., the proximal end portion) when the leg member is in the first position and this maintains the drawbar in a generally horizontal orientation. The second end portion of the leg member is disengaged from the drawbar when the leg member is in the second position, which allows the drawbar to freely pivot.

[0013] In some embodiments, the actuator includes a housing secured to the trailer frame, and an actuator rod operable to extend and retract relative to the housing. A free end portion of the actuator rod is connected to the second end portion of the leg member, and the actuator rod is configured to move the leg member to the first position when the actuator rod is extended relative to the housing and move the leg member to the second position when the actuator rod is retracted relative to the housing.

[0014] In some embodiments, a spring is operably associated with the leg member and the trailer frame and is configured to urge the actuator rod to extend outward relative to the housing and move the leg member to the first position. The actuator rod is configured to overcome a force of the spring and move the leg member to the second position when the actuator rod is retracted relative to the housing. In some embodiments, the spring is within the actuator housing. In some embodiments, the actuator is a pneumatic actuator and, when pressurized air is applied to the pneumatic actuator, the force of the spring is overcome and the actuator rod retracts and moves the leg member to the second position.

[0015] In some embodiments, the second end portion of the leg member includes a pad configured to engage the drawbar when the leg member is in the first position. The pad may be formed of a polymeric material, for example.

[0016] In some embodiments, a proximity switch is provided that is configured to indicate whether the leg member is in the first or second positions.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a locking apparatus is provided for releasably locking a drawbar of a trailer to a frame of the trailer. The Attorney Docket No. 9757.43. WO drawbar is rotatably secured to the trailer frame via a bearing apparatus, and the bearing apparatus includes an upper portion secured to the trailer frame and a lower portion secured to the drawbar. The locking apparatus includes a first member secured to the trailer frame, a second member secured to the bearing apparatus and configured to rotate with the drawbar relative to the trailer frame, and a locking mechanism secured to the second member. The locking mechanism includes a locking member that is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. The locking member engages the first member when in the locked position and prevents rotation of the drawbar relative to the trailer frame. In some embodiments, an actuator (e.g., a pneumatic actuator, an electric actuator, etc.) is configured to move the locking member between the unlocked and locked positions.

[0018] In some embodiments, the second member includes a guide, and the locking member is operably movable between the engaged and disengaged positions within the guide.

[0019] In some embodiments, the first member includes a locking receptacle structure that includes a passageway for receiving the locking member. In some embodiments, the first member has an arcuate shape with upper and lower surfaces and opposite first and second end portions. The locking receptacle structure extends from the lower surface at a generally medial location relative to the opposite first and second end portions of the first member.

[0020] In some embodiments, the second member has an arcuate configuration with upper and lower surfaces and opposite first and second end portions. The locking mechanism extends from the upper surface of the second member at a generally medial location relative to the opposite first and second end portions of the second member.

[0021] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a trailer includes a frame, a drawbar pivotably and rotatably secured to the frame, a kickstand assembly configured to prevent pivotal movement of the drawbar and to maintain the drawbar in a generally horizontal orientation, and a locking apparatus configured to releasably lock the drawbar to the trailer frame and prevent rotation of the drawbar relative to the frame. In some embodiments, the kickstand assembly includes a leg member and an actuator. The leg member includes opposite first and second end portions. The first end portion of the leg member is configured to be pivotably secured to a frame of the trailer such that the leg member is pivotable between a first position and a second position. The second end portion of the leg member engages a portion of the drawbar (e.g., the proximal end Attorney Docket No. 9757.43. WO portion of the drawbar) when the leg member is in the first position and this maintains the drawbar in a generally horizontal orientation. The second end portion of the leg member is disengaged from the drawbar when the leg member is in the second position and this allows the drawbar to freely pivot.

[0022] In some embodiments, the actuator includes a housing secured to the trailer frame and an actuator rod is operable to extend and retract relative to the housing. A free end portion of the actuator rod is connected to the second end portion of the leg member, and the actuator rod is configured to move the leg member to the first position when the actuator rod is extended relative to the housing and move the leg member to the second position when the actuator rod is retracted relative to the housing.

[0023] In some embodiments, a spring is operably associated with the leg member and the trailer frame and is configured to urge the actuator rod to extend outward relative to the housing and move the leg member to the first position. The actuator rod is configured to overcome a force of the spring and move the leg member to the second position when the actuator rod is retracted relative to the housing. In some embodiments, the spring is within the actuator housing. In some embodiments, the actuator is a pneumatic actuator and, when pressurized air is applied to the pneumatic actuator, the actuator rod moves the leg member to the second position.

[0024] In some embodiments, the second end portion of the leg member includes a pad configured to engage the drawbar when the leg member is in the first position. The pad may be formed of a polymeric material, for example.

[0025] In some embodiments, a proximity switch is provided that is configured to indicate whether the leg member is in the first or second positions.

[0026] In some embodiments, the drawbar is rotatably secured to the trailer frame via a bearing apparatus and the bearing apparatus includes an upper portion secured to the trailer frame and a lower portion secured to the drawbar. The locking apparatus includes a first member secured to the trailer frame, a second member secured to the bearing apparatus that is configured to rotate with the drawbar relative to the trailer frame, and a locking mechanism secured to the second member. The locking mechanism includes a locking member that is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. The locking member engages the first member when in the locked position and prevents rotation of the drawbar relative to the trailer frame. In some embodiments, an actuator (e.g., a pneumatic actuator) is configured to move the locking member between the unlocked and locked positions. Attorney Docket No. 9757.43. WO

[0027] In some embodiments, the second member includes a guide, and the locking member is operably movable between the engaged and disengaged positions within the guide.

[0028] In some embodiments, the first member includes a locking receptacle structure that includes a passageway for receiving the locking member. In some embodiments, the first member has an arcuate shape with upper and lower surfaces and opposite first and second end portions. The locking receptacle structure extends from the lower surface at a generally medial location relative to the opposite first and second end portions of the first member.

[0029] In some embodiments, the second member has an arcuate configuration with upper and lower surfaces and opposite first and second end portions. The locking mechanism extends from the upper surface of the second member at a generally medial location relative to the opposite first and second end portions of the second member.

[0030] It is noted that aspects of the invention described with respect to one embodiment may be incorporated in a different embodiment although not specifically described relative thereto. That is, all embodiments and / or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and / or combination. Applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to be able to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and / or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner. These and other objects and / or aspects of the present invention are explained in detail below.

[0031] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] The accompanying drawings, which form a part of the specification, illustrate various embodiments of the present invention. The drawings and description together serve to fully explain embodiments of the present invention.

[0033] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a M1076 military trailer.

[0034] Fig. 2 is a side view of a drawbar assembly rotatably and pivotably secured to a trailer and illustrating a kickstand apparatus configured to prevent pivotal movement of the drawbar and maintain the drawbar assembly in a generally horizontal orientation, and a locking apparatus configured to lock the drawbar assembly relative to the trailer and prevent rotation thereof, according to some embodiments of the present invention. Portions of the trailer are not shown for clarity.

[0035] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a portion of the drawbar assembly of Fig. 2. Attorney Docket No. 9757.43. WO

[0036] Fig. 4 is a top perspective view of a portion of the drawbar assembly of Fig. 2 with some portions thereof removed and other portions thereof illustrated in phantom for clarity, and with the kickstand apparatus in an engaged position.

[0037] Figs. 5 and 6 are top perspective views of the drawbar assembly of Fig. 2 with portions thereof removed for clarity, and with the kickstand apparatus in an engaged position to maintain the drawbar in a generally horizontal orientation.

[0038] Fig. 7 is a bottom perspective view of the drawbar assembly of Fig. 2 with portions thereof removed for clarity, and with the kickstand apparatus in the engaged position.

[0039] Figs. 8 and 9 are top perspective views of the drawbar assembly of Fig. 2 with portions thereof removed for clarity, and with the kickstand apparatus in a disengaged position.

[0040] Fig. 10 is a top perspective view of a portion of the drawbar assembly of Fig. 2 that illustrates a locking apparatus for preventing rotation of the drawbar, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0041] Fig. 11 is a bottom perspective view of the drawbar assembly of Fig. 10 illustrating the locking apparatus and with portions of the drawbar assembly and trailer removed for clarity.

[0042] Fig. 12 is a top perspective view of the drawbar assembly of Fig. 10 illustrating the locking apparatus.

[0043] Fig. 13 is a top perspective view of the locking apparatus of Fig. 10 with portions of the drawbar assembly and trailer removed for clarity, and with the locking apparatus in a non-locking configuration.

[0044] Fig. 14 is a top perspective view of the locking apparatus of Fig. 10 with portions of the drawbar assembly and trailer removed for clarity, and with the locking apparatus in a locking configuration.

[0045] Fig. 15 is a bottom perspective view of the first member of the locking apparatus ofFig. 10.

[0046] Fig. 16 is a top perspective view of second member of the locking apparatus of Fig. 10.

[0047] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying figures, in which embodiments of the invention are shown. This Attorney Docket No. 9757.43. WO invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. In the figures, certain components or features may be exaggerated for clarity, and broken lines illustrate optional features or operations unless specified otherwise. In addition, the sequence of operations (or steps) is not limited to the order presented in the figures and / or claims unless specifically indicated otherwise. Features described with respect to one figure or embodiment can be associated with another embodiment or figure although not specifically described or shown as such.

[0049] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the specification and relevant art and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein. Well-known functions or constructions may not be described in detail for brevity and / or clarity.

[0050] When an element is referred to as being “connected”, “coupled”, “responsive”, or variants thereof to another element, it can be directly connected, coupled, or responsive to the other element or intervening elements may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly connected”, “directly coupled”, “directly responsive”, or variants thereof to another element, there are no intervening elements present. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Well-known functions or constructions may not be described in detail for brevity and / or clarity. The term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0051] As used herein, the terms “comprise”, “comprising”, “comprises”, “include”, “including”, “includes”, “have”, “has”, “having”, or variants thereof are open-ended, and include one or more stated features, integers, elements, steps, components or functions but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, elements, steps, components, functions or groups thereof. Furthermore, as used herein, the common abbreviation “e.g.,” which derives from the Latin phrase “exempli gratia,” may be used to introduce or specify a general example or examples of a previously mentioned item, and is not intended to be limiting of such item. The common Attorney Docket No. 9757.43. WO abbreviation “i.e.,” which derives from the Latin phrase “id est,” may be used to specify a particular item from a more general recitation.

[0052] It will be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements / operations, these elements / operations should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element / operation from another element / operation. Thus, a first element / operation in some embodiments could be termed a second element / operation in other embodiments without departing from the teachings of the present invention. The same reference numerals or the same reference designators denote the same or similar elements throughout the specification.

[0053] The term “towed vehicle”, as used herein, is intended to include any type of vehicle that can be towed, including, but not limited to, trailers, automobiles, trucks, military vehicles, autonomous vehicles, semi-autonomous vehicles, etc. The term “towing vehicle”, as used herein, is intended to include any type of vehicle that can tow another vehicle, including, but not limited to, automobiles, trucks, military vehicles, autonomous vehicles, semi-autonomous vehicles, etc.

[0054] Referring initially to Figs. 2 and 3, a drawbar assembly 100 for a trailer T, according to some embodiments of the present invention, is illustrated. The full trailer T is not illustrated for clarity. Moreover, the drawbar assembly 100 can be used with various types of trailers and is not limited to use with an particular trailer type or manufacturer. The illustrated drawbar assembly 100 includes a drawbar 110 having a distal free end 110a configured to be engaged with a hitch apparatus HA of a towing vehicle (not shown), and an opposite proximal free end 110b. The drawbar 110 is pivotably mounted to a frame 130 via a pair of linkages 112. The drawbar 110 and frame 130 may be formed from metal, such as steel (e.g., high-strength steel) or aluminum, although other suitable materials may be utilized.

[0055] In the illustrated embodiment, each linkage 112 includes a pair of spaced apart plates 114a, 114b that are secured to respective sides of a structural member SM of the drawbar 110. The plates 114a, 114b may be secured to the structural members SM of the drawbar 110 via welding or mechanical fasteners, or via a combination of welding and mechanical fasteners. As illustrated in Figs. 5 and 6, each plate 114a, 114b includes a distal free end 114ae, 114be having a respective aperture 116a, 116b formed therein. A journal bearing 115 is inserted through the apertures 116a, 116b in the plates 114a, 114b, as illustrated.

[0056] Each linkage 112 is received within a respective channel 116 (Figs. 3 and 4) of Attorney Docket No. 9757.43. WO the frame 130. In the illustrated embodiment, each channel 116 includes a pair of opposing walls 118a, 118b, and each wall 118a, 118b includes an aperture 120a, 120b formed therein. Each linkage 112 is inserted within a respect channel 116 such that the journal bearing 115 aligns with the apertures 120a, 120b. A journal or pin 122 (Figs. 2 and 3) is inserted through the apertures 120a, 120b and the journal bearing 115 such that each linkage 112 is pivotably secured to the frame 130 and so that the drawbar 100 is pivotable about the pivot axis PA.

[0057] Referring back to Figs. 2 and 3, the frame 130 is rotatably secured to the frame TF of a trailer T via a turntable or bearing apparatus 140. The frame 130 and bearing apparatus 140 are components of the trailer T. The illustrated bearing apparatus 140 includes an upper bearing ring 142 secured to the trailer frame TF and a lower bearing ring 144 secured to the frame 130 of the drawbar assembly 100. The upper and lower bearing rings 142, 144 rotate about a bearing member 146 sandwiched between the upper and lower bearing rings 142, 144. The upper and lower bearing rings 142, 144 may be formed from metal, such as steel (e.g., surface-hardened structural steel), although other suitable materials may be utilized. In some embodiments, the bearing member 146 may be a solid element formed from steel, and the upper and lower bearing rings 142, 144 slide along respective upper and lower surfaces of the bearing member 146. In other embodiments, the bearing element 146 includes rolling elements, such as steel balls or rollers, housed within bearing races. The rolling elements and bearing races may be manufactured from quenched and hardened carbon-chromium bearing steel, although other suitable materials may be utilized.

[0058] The drawbar assembly 100 includes a kickstand apparatus 200 configured to autonomously maintain the drawbar 110 in a generally horizontal orientation, and a locking apparatus 300 that is configured to autonomously lock the drawbar assembly 100 relative to the trailer T and prevent rotation of the drawbar assembly 100. The term “generally horizontal” means ± 5° relative to horizontal.

[0059] Referring to Figs. 4-9, the kickstand apparatus 200 will be described in detail. The kickstand apparatus 200 includes a leg member 210 having opposite first and second end portions 210a, 210b. The first end portion 210a of the leg member 210 is pivotably secured to the trailer frame TF such that the leg member 210 is pivotable between first and second positions (i.e., between “engaged” and “disengaged” positions). In the first or engaged position (Figs. 4-7), the second end portion 210b of the leg member 210 contacts or engages the proximal end 110b of the drawbar 110 and prevents the drawbar Attorney Docket No. 9757.43. WO

[0060] 110 from pivoting about the pivot axis PA. In the second or disengaged position (Figs. 8 and 9), the second end portion 210b of the leg member 210 does not contact or engage the proximal end 110a of the drawbar 110, and the drawbar 110 is free to pivot about the pivot axis PA. The leg member 210 can be formed from various materials known to those skilled in the art of the present invention. An exemplary material includes, but is not limited to, case-hardened steel.

[0061] As will be described below, the illustrated drawbar assembly 100 also includes an airbag 150 that, when pressurized air from a towing vehicle is connected to the trailer T, can maintain the drawbar 110 generally horizontal. When the airbag 150 does not receive pressurized air, the drawbar 110 is free to pivot about the pivot axis PA when the second end portion 210b of the leg member 210 does not engage the proximal end 110a of the drawbar 110. As such, the kickstand apparatus 200 is utilized to maintain the drawbar 110 generally horizontal when pressurized air from a towing vehicle is not connected to the trailer T, for example, when the trailer T is parked and unconnected to a towing vehicle.

[0062] The kickstand apparatus 200 also includes a spring 220 that is configured to be operably associated with the leg member 210 and the trailer frame TF. In the illustrated embodiment, the spring 220 is located within a pneumatic actuator 230 (described below) and is configured to cause the actuator rod 234 of the pneumatic actuator 230 to extend outwardly from the housing 232 of the pneumatic actuator 230. As such, the spring 220 is configured to urge the leg member 210, via the actuator rod 234, to the first or engaged position such that the second end portion 210b of the leg member 210 contacts or engages the proximal end 110b of the drawbar 110 and retains the drawbar 110 in a generally horizontal orientation.

[0063] The kickstand apparatus 200 includes a pneumatic actuator 230 that is configured to disengage the second end portion 210b of the leg member 210 from the proximal end 110b of the drawbar 110. The illustrated pneumatic actuator 230 includes a housing 232 that is secured to the trailer frame TF, and an actuator rod 234 that extends from the housing 232. The actuator rod 234 has a free end portion 234a connected to the second end portion 210b of the leg member 210. When pressurized air is applied to the pneumatic actuator 230 (e.g., when pressurized air from a towing vehicle air system is connected to the air system of the trailer T), the actuator rod 234 is retracted into the housing 232 from an extended position and this moves the leg member 210 to the second or disengaged position. When pressurized air is not applied to the pneumatic actuator Attorney Docket No. 9757.43. WO

[0064] 230, the spring 220 within the housing 232 urges the actuator rod 234 outwardly from the housing 232 to an extended position and this moves the leg member 210 to the first or engaged position. Thus, when a trailer T is disconnected from a towing vehicle, including disconnecting the towing vehicle air system from the air system of the trailer T, the leg member 210 automatically moves to engage the proximal end 110b of the drawbar 110 and maintains the distal free end 110a of the drawbar 110 off the ground. As such, the kickstand apparatus 200 replaces the airbag function when the towing vehicle air system is disconnected from the air system of the trailer T.

[0065] In the illustrated embodiment, the first end portion 210a of the leg member 210 is pivotably secured to the trailer frame TF and the actuator rod 234 is pivotably secured to the second end portion 210b of the leg member 210. The leg member 210 in the illustrated embodiment has a generally triangular shape, wherein the base of the triangle is the second end portion 210b. The actuator rod 234 is pivotably secured to the base of the triangle such that retraction of the actuator rod 234 causes the second end portion 210b of the leg member 210 to move in an arc upwardly from the engaged position to the disengaged position. The leg member 210 may have various shapes and configurations and is not limited to the illustrated shape and configuration. Any shape / configuration that allows the the leg member 210 to move in an arc upwardly away from the proximal end 110b of the drawbar 110 can be utilized.

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, the second end portion 210b of the leg member 210 includes a pad 240 that is configured to engage the proximal end 110b of the drawbar 110 when the leg member 210 is in the first position. The pad 240 may be a polymeric material, such a nylon; however, various other materials may be utilized. The pad 240 may help reduce wear and tear on the leg member 210 and drawbar 110. For example, the pad 240 may help distribute the load more evenly across the surface of the drawbar 240, reducing the risk of localized stress concentrations that might lead to material failure. In addition, the pad 240 may absorb and dampen impacts or vibrations between the leg member 210 and drawbar 110, reducing the risk of damage from sudden movements or shocks. The pad 240 may also act as a barrier between the leg member 210 and drawbar 110, reducing direct contact and thereby limiting the risk of corrosion, especially in environments where moisture or chemicals might promote rust.

[0067] In some embodiments, the kickstand apparatus 200 may include a proximity switch 212 (Fig. 5) that is configured to indicate whether the leg member 210 is the first Attorney Docket No. 9757.43. WO or second positions. The proximity switch 212 may be configured to send a signal wirelessly to a remote receiver of a user that indicates whether the leg member 210 is the first or second positions.

[0068] As described above, the drawbar assembly 100 includes an airbag 150 that is configured to raise the drawbar 100 to a generally horizontal orientation when pressurized air is supplied thereto, for example, from an air system of a towing vehicle that the trailer T is to be attached to. However, the airbag 150 is not designed to hold the drawbar 110 in the generally horizontal orientation for more than a short period of time. As such, the kickstand apparatus 200 of the present invention is advantageous in that the drawbar 110 can be maintained generally horizontal indefinitely. For example, when the trailer T is decoupled from a towing vehicle and the air line(s) from the towing vehicle are disconnected from the air line(s) of the trailer T, pressurized air is no longer available to the airbag 150 and the leg member 210 of the kickstand apparatus 200 will automatically pivot downwardly into the first position and engage the proximal end 110b of the drawbar under the force of the spring 220. When the trailer T is re-coupled to a towing vehicle and the air line(s) of the towing vehicle are reconnected to the air line(s) of the trailer T, the pneumatic actuator 230 overcomes the force of the spring 220 and moves the leg member 210 to the second position wherein the second end portion 210b of the leg member 210 is disengaged from the proximal end 110b of the drawbar.

[0069] Referring now to Figs. 10-16, the locking apparatus 300 that is configured to lock the drawbar assembly 100 relative to the trailer T and prevent rotation of the drawbar assembly 100, for example, during a backing operation of the trailer T will be described. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking apparatus 300 includes a first member 310 that is secured to the trailer frame TF and a second member 320 that is secured to the drawbar assembly 100 and that rotates with the drawbar assembly 100 as it rotates relative to the trailer frame TF. In the illustrated embodiment, the first member 310 includes a base 312 having a portion thereof that is secured to the trailer frame TF via welding or mechanical fasteners, or via a combination of welding and mechanical fasteners. The base 312 has an arcuate configuration with upper and lower surfaces 312a, 312b and opposite first and second end portions 312c, 312d. A locking receptacle structure 314 extends from the lower surface 312b of the base 312 at a generally medial location relative to the opposite ends 312c, 312d of the base 312. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking receptacle structure 314 is a monolithic block with a notch or passageway 316 formed therein for receiving a locking member 332, as will be described below. The Attorney Docket No. 9757.43. WO base 312 and locking receptacle structure 314 may be formed from case-hardened steel, although other types of steel and other types of suitable materials may be used.

[0070] The second member 320 has an arcuate configuration with upper and lower surfaces 320a, 320b and opposite first and second end portions 320c, 320d. The second member 320 is secured to the lower bearing ring 144 of the bearing apparatus 140 via welding or mechanical fasteners, or via a combination of welding and mechanical fasteners. A locking mechanism 330 is operably associated with the second member 320 and includes a locking member 332 that is movable between a retracted or unlocked position and an extended or locked position. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking mechanism 330 extends from the upper surface 320a of the second member at a generally medial location relative to the opposite first and second end portions 320c, 320d. The locking member 332 may have a shape and configuration that matingly engages the passageway 316 in the locking receptacle structure 314. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking member 332 has a generally rectangular cross-sectional configuration and the passageway 316 has a corresponding generally rectangular cross- sectional configuration that is slightly larger and configured to releasably receive the locking member 332 therein. However, in some embodiments, the passageway 316 and / or the locking member 332 can have a tapered configuration that allows for some misalignment between the locking member 332 and the passageway 316. A tapered configuration of the passageway 316 and / or the locking member 332 can facilitate engagement of the locking member 332 within the passageway 316 as well as disengagement of the locking member 332 from the passageway 316, particularly when one is misaligned relative to the other.

[0071] The locking member 332 and the passageway 316 may have various shapes and configurations and are not limited to the illustrated embodiment. In addition, the first and second members 310, 320 may have various shapes and configurations and are not limited to the illustrated embodiment.

[0072] The locking member 332 is operably movable between the engaged and disengaged positions within a guide 350 secured to, or otherwise a part of, the second member 320. The illustrated guide include a pair of spaced apart wall members 352, 354 that define a channel 360. The ends of the wall members 353, 354 closest to the pneumatic actuator 340 have a diverging configuration, as illustrated, and the opposite ends are substantially parallel. A U-shaped member 356 helps secure the wall members 353, 354 to the second member 320, as illustrated. The guide 350 may be secured to the Attorney Docket No. 9757.43. WO second member 320 via welding or mechanical fasteners, or via a combination of welding and mechanical fasteners. The second member 320, guide 350, and locking member 332 may be formed from case-hardened steel, although other types of steel and other types of suitable materials may be used.

[0073] Fig. 13 illustrates the locking member 332 disengaged from the passageway 316 and, as such, the drawbar assembly 100 is free to rotate relative to the trailer frame TF. Fig. 14 illustrates the locking member 332 engaged within the passageway 316 and, as such, the drawbar assembly 100 is locked to the trailer frame TF and is not free to rotate relative to the trailer T.

[0074] In the illustrated embodiment, the locking apparatus 300 includes a pneumatic actuator 340, although other types of actuators may be utilized (e.g., an electric actuator), that is configured to move the locking member 332 between an engaged and disengaged position relative to the passageway 316 in the locking receptacle structure 314. The illustrated pneumatic actuator 340 includes a housing 342 that is secured to the second member 320 of the locking member 300, and an actuator rod 344 that extends from the housing 342. The housing 342 includes a spring (not shown) that is operably associated with the actuator rod 344 and that urges the actuator rod 344 to a retracted position within the housing 342. The actuator rod 344 has a free end portion 344a connected to the locking member 332. When pressurized air is applied to the pneumatic actuator 340 (e.g., when pressurized air from a towing vehicle is connected to the trailer T, etc.), the pressurized air overcomes the force of the spring within the housing 342 and causes the actuator rod 344 to extend outward from the housing 342 and move the locking member 332 into engagement with the passageway 316 in the locking receptacle structure 314. When pressurized air is not applied to the pneumatic actuator 340, the spring within the housing 342 causes the actuator rod 344 to retract into the housing 342 which causes the locking member 332 to disengage from the passageway 316 in the locking receptacle structure 314.

[0075] In other embodiments, the above operation may be reversed and the spring may be operably associated with the actuator rod 344 so as to urge the actuator rod 344 to the extended position so that the locking member 332 is engaged with the passageway 316 and such that the drawbar assembly 100 is locked to the trailer frame TF and is not free to rotate relative to the trailer T. When pressurized air is applied to the pneumatic actuator 340 (e.g., when pressurized air from a towing vehicle is connected to the trailer T, etc.), the pressurized air overcomes the force of the spring within the housing 342 and Atorney Docket No. 9757.43. WO causes the actuator rod 344 to retract from the passageway 316 so that the drawbar assembly 100 is free to rotate relative to the trailer T.

[0076] The foregoing is illustrative of the present invention and is not to be construed as limiting thereof. Although a few exemplary embodiments of this invention have been described, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the exemplary embodiments without materially departing from the teachings and advantages of this invention. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this invention as defined in the claims. The invention is defined by the following claims, with equivalents of the claims to be included therein.

Claims

Attorney Docket No. 9757.

43. WOTHAT WHICH IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A kickstand assembly for maintaining a drawbar pivotably secured to a trailer in a horizontal orientation, the kickstand assembly comprising: a leg member comprising opposite first and second end portions, wherein the first end portion of the leg member is configured to be pivotably secured to a frame of the trailer such that the leg member is pivotable between a first position and a second position, wherein the second end portion of the leg member engages a portion of the drawbar when the leg member is in the first position and maintains the drawbar in a generally horizontal orientation, and wherein the second end portion of the leg member is disengaged from the drawbar when the leg member is in the second position; and an actuator comprising a housing secured to the trailer frame, and an actuator rod operable to extend and retract relative to the housing, wherein a free end portion of the actuator rod is connected to the second end portion of the leg member, and wherein the actuator rod is configured to move the leg member to the first position when the actuator rod is extended relative to the housing and move the leg member to the second position when the actuator rod is retracted relative to the housing.

2. The kickstand assembly of Claim 1, further comprising a spring operably associated with the leg member and the trailer frame, wherein the spring is configured to urge the actuator rod to extend relative to the housing and move the leg member to the first position, and wherein the actuator rod is configured to overcome a force of the spring and move the leg member to the second position when the actuator rod is retracted relative to the housing.

3. The kickstand assembly of Claim 2, wherein the spring is within the actuator housing.

4. The kickstand assembly of Claim 2, wherein the actuator comprises a pneumatic actuator, wherein, when pressurized air is applied to the pneumatic actuator, the actuator rod moves the leg member to the second position.

5. The kickstand assembly of Claim 1, wherein the drawbar comprises a proximal end portion and an opposite distal free end portion, and wherein the portion ofAttorney Docket No. 9757.

43. WO the drawbar engaged by the leg member is the proximal end portion.

6. The kickstand assembly of Claim 1, wherein the second end portion of the leg member comprises a pad configured to engage the portion of the drawbar when the leg member is in the first position.

7. The kickstand assembly of Claim 6, wherein the pad comprises a polymeric material.

8. The kickstand assembly of Claim 1, further comprising a proximity switch that is configured to indicate whether the leg member is in the first or second positions.

9. A locking apparatus for releasably locking a drawbar of a trailer to a frame of the trailer, wherein the drawbar is rotatably secured to the trailer frame via a bearing apparatus, wherein the bearing apparatus includes an upper portion secured to the trailer frame and a lower portion secured to the drawbar, wherein the locking apparatus comprises: a first member secured to the trailer frame; a second member secured to the bearing apparatus and configured to rotate with the drawbar relative to the trailer frame; and a locking mechanism secured to the second member, the locking mechanism comprising a locking member movable between an unlocked position and a locked position, wherein the locking member engages the first member when in the locked position and prevents rotation of the drawbar relative to the trailer frame.

10. The locking apparatus of Claim 9, further comprising an actuator configured to move the locking member between the unlocked and locked positions.

11. The locking apparatus of Claim 10, wherein the actuator comprises a pneumatic actuator.

12. The locking apparatus of Claim 9, wherein the second member comprises a guide, and wherein the locking member is operably movable between the engaged andAttorney Docket No. 9757.

43. WO disengaged positions within the guide.

13. The locking apparatus of Claim 9, wherein the first member comprises a locking receptacle structure that includes a passageway for receiving the locking member.

14. The locking apparatus of Claim 13, wherein the first member has an arcuate shape with upper and lower surfaces and opposite first and second end portions, and wherein the locking receptacle structure extends from the lower surface at a generally medial location relative to the opposite first and second end portions of the first member.

15. The locking apparatus of Claim 9, wherein the second member has an arcuate configuration with upper and lower surfaces and opposite first and second end portions, and wherein the locking mechanism extends from the upper surface of the second member at a generally medial location relative to the opposite first and second end portions of the second member.

16. A trailer, comprising: a frame; a drawbar pivotably and rotatably secured to the frame; a kickstand assembly configured to prevent pivotal movement of the drawbar and to maintain the drawbar in a generally horizontal orientation; and a locking apparatus configured to releasably lock the drawbar to the trailer frame and prevent rotation of the drawbar relative to the frame.

17. The trailer of Claim 16, wherein the kickstand assembly comprises: a leg member comprising opposite first and second end portions, wherein the first end portion of the leg member is configured to be pivotably secured to a frame of the trailer such that the leg member is pivotable between a first position and a second position, wherein the second end portion of the leg member engages a portion of the drawbar when the leg member is in the first position and maintains the drawbar in a generally horizontal orientation, and wherein the second end portion of the leg member is disengaged from the drawbar when the leg member is in the second position; andAttorney Docket No. 9757.

43. WO an actuator comprising a housing secured to the trailer frame, and an actuator rod operable to extend and retract relative to the housing, wherein a free end portion of the actuator rod is connected to the second end portion of the leg member, and wherein the actuator rod is configured to move the leg member to the first position when the actuator rod is extended relative to the housing and move the leg member to the second position when the actuator rod is retracted relative to the housing.

18. The trailer of Claim 17, wherein the kickstand assembly further comprises a spring operably associated with the leg member and the trailer frame, wherein the spring is configured to urge the actuator rod to extend relative to the housing and move the leg member to the first position, and wherein the actuator rod is configured to overcome a force of the spring and move the leg member to the second position when the actuator rod is retracted relative to the housing.

19. The trailer of Claim 17, wherein the spring is within the actuator housing.

20. The trailer of Claim 17, wherein the actuator comprises a pneumatic actuator, wherein, when pressurized air is applied to the pneumatic actuator, the actuator rod moves the leg member to the second position.

21. The trailer of Claim 17, wherein the drawbar comprises a proximal end portion and an opposite distal free end portion, and wherein the portion of the drawbar engaged by the leg member is the proximal end portion.

22. The trailer of Claim 17, wherein the second end portion of the leg member comprises a pad configured to engage the portion of the drawbar when the leg member is in the first position.

23. The trailer of Claim 22, wherein the pad comprises a polymeric material.

24. The trailer of Claim 16, wherein the kickstand assembly further comprises a proximity switch that is configured to indicate whether the leg member is in the first or second positions.Attorney Docket No. 9757.

43. WO25. The trailer of Claim 16, wherein the drawbar is rotatably secured to the trailer frame via a bearing apparatus, the bearing apparatus comprising an upper portion secured to the trailer frame and a lower portion secured to the drawbar, and wherein the locking apparatus comprises: a first member secured to the trailer frame; a second member secured to the bearing apparatus and configured to rotate with the drawbar relative to the trailer frame; and a locking mechanism secured to the second member, the locking mechanism comprising a locking member movable between an unlocked position and a locked position, wherein the locking member engages the first member when in the locked position and prevents rotation of the drawbar relative to the trailer frame.

26. The trailer of Claim 25, further comprising an actuator configured to move the locking member between the unlocked and locked positions.

27. The trailer of Claim 26, wherein the actuator comprises a pneumatic actuator.

28. The trailer of Claim 25, wherein the second member comprises a guide, and wherein the locking member is operably movable between the engaged and disengaged positions within the guide.

29. The trailer of Claim 25, wherein the first member comprises a locking receptacle structure that includes a passageway for receiving the locking member.

30. The trailer of Claim 29, wherein the first member has an arcuate shape with upper and lower surfaces and opposite first and second end portions, and wherein the locking receptacle structure extends from the lower surface at a generally medial location relative to the opposite first and second end portions of the first member.

31. The trailer of Claim 25, wherein the second member has an arcuate configuration with upper and lower surfaces and opposite first and second end portions, and wherein the locking mechanism extends from the upper surface of the second member at a generally medial location relative to the opposite first and second endAttorney Docket No. 9757.

43. WO portions of the second member.

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