GB2620490A

GB2620490A - A trailer

Info

Publication number: GB2620490A
Application number: GB2307802.5A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Doyle James
Original assignee: Colldon Auto Ltd
Current assignee: Colldon Auto Ltd
Priority date: 2022-05-24
Filing date: 2023-05-24
Publication date: 2024-01-10
Also published as: GB202307802D0; GB202207614D0; IE20230176A2

Abstract

A trailer for agricultural use, towable by a vehicle, is provided. The trailer has a chassis 12 and a bed 6 supported by chassis 6. Bed 6 is most preferably extendable lengthwise and/or width-wise. The trailer typically has sides 8 connectable or connected to bed 6 and extendable upwards from the bed; these may be in two or more parts and may be pivotable to allow extension of the bed. A bulkhead (20, Figure 1) and tailboard (42, Figure 1) may also be provided, which may also be pivotable to allow extension of bed 6. A control means may be provided to control extension of the trailer.

Description

A TRAILER

The present invention relates to a trailer, and in particular a trailer for agricultural use.

Traditionally, a trailer is an unpowered vehicle towed by a powered vehicle. In other words, it is a vehicle which possesses wheels but does not possess an engine to drive the wheels. Trailers are used worldwide to transport goods and materials from one location to another. Trailers generally comprise a chassis, towbar, axle(s), and wheels, a trailer-bed supported on the chassis with sides connected to the bed and extending upwards from the i 0 bed, a bulkhead located at the front of the trailer, and a tailboard located at the rear of the trailer. The sides, bulkhead and tailboard function to retain the load on the bed during transport. There are a multitude of different known trailers of various designs, with each trailer providing a different purpose. A widely-used trailer in agriculture is semi-trailers. A semi-trailer is a trailer without a front axle, meaning it must be towed by either a truck or tractor. Most of Is the trailer's weight is supported by the tractor/truck unit, with the rear wheels of the semi-trailer supporting the remaining weight. Semi-trailers may be fitted with 'landing gear' to support the front of the trailer off the ground when it is uncoupled from a vehicle.

Many trailers currently on the market perform individual functions, for example, a dump trailer (sometimes referred to as a 'tipper') which is widely used to transport bulk material such zo as gravel and stone, or a low-loader which is widely used to transport heavy equipment such as bulldozers.

However, the uni-functional nature of the trailers that are currently available creates inefficiency. This inefficiency is evident in circumstances where multiple trailers with different functions are required in a single operation. An example of such a circumstance is when a person, for example a farmer or building contractor on a work site, requires both heavy excavation equipment and a dump trailer, to remove the excavated material. Normally this would require a first trailer (a low-loader) to transport the excavation equipment to and from the site, and a second trailer to remove the excavated material from the site.

It is an object of the invention to obviate or mitigate the problems outlined above in relation to the requirement of having different trailers for different purposes.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a trailer for agricultural use, wherein the trailer can be towed by a vehicle, the trailer comprising a chassis and a bed wherein the bed is supported by the chassis, and wherein the bed is ideally extendable lengthwise and/or width-wise.

Ideally, the trailer has sides that are connectable to or connected to the bed. Ideally, the sides extend upwards from the bed. Advantageously, this prevents the load being carried by the trailer from falling off the bed during transport. Ideally, the sides are located at a lateral edge portion of the bed. Ideally, the sides extend along all or part of the bed. Ideally, at least one side, most preferably each side, is hingedly connected to the bed. Advantageously, the sides can pivot relative to the bed. Ideally, the side can pivot relative to bed through more than 45°. Ideally, the side can be folded relative to the bed so that it is coplanar or substantially coplanar with the bed. When the side is folded such that it is coplanar or substantially coplanar with the bed it thereby forms a part of the bed and the bed is effectively extended width-wise. Ideally, the chassis comprises one or more axles for supporting wheels and ideally the trailer has wheels fitted to the axles. Ideally, when the side is folded relative to the bed it extends over the wheels.

Preferably, at least one side, most preferably each side, has two or more panels. The sides, most preferably the panels, may have a continuous surface forming the side or panel, or they may have a discontinuous surface, for example, if the side was formed from a mesh or if the panel was a mesh panel. Ideally, the panels are connectable to or are connected to one another. Ideally, the panels extend along all or part of the bed.

Preferably, one side or each side comprises a first panel which is connected to the bed and a second panel which is connected to the first panel. Ideally, the first and second panels have the same or similar dimensions. Ideally, the first panel extends over the wheels when it is folded to be coplanar or substantially coplanar with the bed. Preferably, the second panel can rotate through up to 1800 relative to the first panel. Advantageously, the second panel can be folded through 180° to abut the first panel, and the first panel can be folded to be coplanar or substantially coplanar with the bed. In this configuration, the second panel does not extend beyond the perimeter of the first panel.

Ideally, the panels are connected to one another via a panel attachment means.

Preferably, the panel attachment means comprises a hinge. Advantageously, the panel attachment means being a hinge enables the panels to pivot relative to one another. The panel attachment means may comprise a panel locking mechanism to lock panels together. Ideally, when the panels are locked together, they cannot move relative to one another.

Ideally, the sides have a height dimension which can be increased. Preferably, the height of the sides can be increased by moving one panel relative to another panel to which it is connected. Ideally, the height of the sides can be increased by attaching an additional panel to the side panels. Advantageously, the trailer can be adapted to transport a larger load by attaching additional side panels. Ideally, the additional panel is attached by a panel attachment means.

Ideally, the trailer has a bulkhead connectable to or connected to the bed. Ideally, the bulkhead is located at or about the front of the trailer. By 'front of the trailer' we mean the part of the trailer closest to the vehicle towing the trailer when the trailer is being towed. Preferably, the bulkhead is connectable to or connected to the bed through a bulkhead attachment means. Ideally, the bulkhead attachment means comprises a hinge. Advantageously, this enables the bulkhead to pivot relative to the bed. Ideally, the bulkhead can be arranged such that it is coplanar or substantially co-planar to the bed. Ideally, the chassis can be extended to support the bulkhead when the bulkhead is arranged such that it is co-planar or substantially co-planar to the bed.

Ideally, the bulkhead comprises one or more bulkhead panels. Ideally, the bulkhead can be folded upwards to abut the sides of the trailer. Preferably, when the bulkhead is folded upwards, the bulkhead sits at or about 90° to the bed. Ideally, the bulkhead is secured to the sides via one or more bulkhead securing means. More preferably, the bulkhead securing means is operable to lock the bulkhead and the sides together. Ideally, when the bulkhead and sides are locked together, they cannot move relative to one another. The bulkhead securing means is ideally operable to secure the bulkhead against the sides and ideally form a seal between the bulkhead and the sides such that material being transported by the trailer cannot fall out of the trailer between the bulkhead and the sides. Advantageously, this enables the load to be safely transported without the risk of the load falling out.

Preferably, the bulkhead comprises two or more bulkhead panels. Ideally, a first bulkhead panel is connected to the trailer bed and a second bulkhead panel is connected to the first bulkhead panel. Ideally, the bulkhead panels are connected to one another via a bulkhead-panel attachment means. Preferably, the bulkhead-panel attachment means comprises a hinge. Advantageously, the bulkhead-panel attachment means being a hinge enables the bulkhead panels to pivot relative to one another. The bulkhead-panel attachment means may comprise a bulkhead-panel locking mechanism to lock the bulkhead panels together. Ideally, when the bulkhead panels are locked together, they cannot move relative to one another.

Ideally, the first bulkhead panel can rotate through up to 90° relative to the bed. Ideally, the second bulkhead panel can rotate through 1800 relative to the first panel. Ideally, the first bulkhead panel has the same or similar dimensions to the second bulkhead panel. Ideally, when the bulkhead is folded upwards, the second bulkhead panel abuts the first bulkhead panel. In this configuration, the second bulkhead panel does not extend beyond the perimeter of the first bulkhead panel.

Ideally, both bulkhead panels can fold down on to the chassis such that they are coplanar or substantially co-planar to the bed. Advantageously, this extends the length of the bed. Ideally, the bulkhead abuts the chassis.

Ideally, the bulkhead is attached to or is attachable to the chassis. Ideally, the bulkhead and the chassis are configured to engage with one another. Ideally, the bulkhead comprises an engagement means for engaging with the chassis. Ideally, the engagement means is operable to releasably fix the bulkhead to the chassis.

Ideally, the engagement means comprises one part located on the bulkhead, most preferably on the second bulkhead panel, and another part located on the chassis. Preferably, the engagement means comprises a male element and female receiving recess. The male element may be located on the bulkhead and the female receiving recess may be located on the chassis. Alternatively, the male element can be located on the chassis and the female receiving recess can be located on the bulkhead. Preferably, the male element is a pin. The engagement means secures the bulkhead to the chassis.

i 0 Ideally, the part of the engagement means located on the bulkhead is pivotally connected to the bulkhead, most preferably, to the second bulkhead panel. Ideally, when the bulkhead is in engagement with the chassis via the engagement means, as the chassis extends, the first and second bulkhead panels subsequently extend.

Ideally, when the bulkhead is folded down on to the chassis, co-planar or substantially co-planar to the bed, one or more additional bulkhead panels can be connected to or are connectable to the front of the trailer bed, the front of the trailer bed now being defined by the frontmost part of the bulkhead. Ideally, the additional bulkhead panel is arranged projecting upwards from the trailer bed. Most preferably, the additional bulkhead panel is arrangeable at 900 to the trailer bed.

Ideally, the additional bulkhead panel has a first planar section and a second planar section, wherein the first planar section is at an angle to the second planar section. Advantageously, the bulkhead panel can be arranged such that the second planar section extends beyond the front perimeter of the bed. This means that material being transported can be supported on the bulkhead panel beyond the front perimeter of the bed thereby increasing the quantity of material that can be transported. The first planar section and second planar section may be two separate bulkhead panels connected together, or they may be integrally formed with one another.

Ideally, the chassis is configured to be towed by a vehicle. Preferably, the chassis comprises a towbar or other suitable means to enable towing.

Preferably, the trailer comprises a tailboard. Ideally, the tailboard comprises one or more tailboard panels. Ideally, the tailboard is located at or about the rear of the trailer. By 'rear of the trailer' we mean the part of the trailer furthest from the vehicle towing the trailer when the trailer is being towed. The tailboard is therefore at the opposing end of the trailer from the bulkhead.

Ideally, the tailboard is connectable to or connected to the rear of the trailer bed via a tailboard attachment means. Ideally, the tailboard attachment means comprises a hinge.

Advantageously, this enables the tailboard to pivot relative to the bed. Ideally, the tailboard can be arranged such that it is co-planar or substantially co-planar to the bed.

Ideally, the tailboard can be pivoted from the sides, most preferably, from an upper portion of the sides. Advantageously, the bed can be pivoted up relative to the chassis, and the tailboard can be allowed to pivot relative to the sides thereby allowing material on the bed to be unloaded.

Ideally, the tailboard can be folded upwards to abut the sides of the trailer. Preferably, when the tailboard is folded upwards, the tailboard sits at or about 900 to the bed. Ideally, the tailboard is secured to the sides via one or more tailboard securing means. More preferably, i0 the tailboard securing means is operable to lock the tailboard and the sides together. Ideally, when the tailboard and sides are locked together, they cannot move relative to one another. The tailboard securing means is ideally operable to secure the tailboard against the sides and ideally form a seal between the tailboard and the sides such that material being transported by the trailer cannot fall out of the trailer between the tailboard and the sides. Advantageously, this enables the load to be safely transported without the risk of the load falling out.

Preferably, the tailboard comprises one or more tailboard panels. Ideally, a first tailboard panel is connected to the trailer bed and a second tailboard panel is connected to the first tailboard panel. Ideally, the first tailboard panel has the same or similar dimensions to the second tailboard panel. Ideally, the tailboard panels are connected to one another via a tailboard-panel attachment means. The tailboard may comprise a tailboard-panel locking mechanism to lock the panels together. Ideally, when the tailboard panels are locked together, they cannot move relative to one another. Ideally, the second panel is moveable slidably relative to the first panel. Ideally, the second panel can move between an extended configuration where it extends out from the first panel and a retracted configuration where it is located above or below the first panel. Advantageously, when the second panel is extended from the first panel, the tailboard can also reach ground level at a less steep incline than the non-extended tailboard. This means the load on the trailer can be easily unloaded to ground level with a less steep decline which is advantageous for more damageable goods.

Ideally, the tailboard can be rotated beyond the coplanar configuration with the trailer bed. Ideally, the tailboard can rotate through at least 90° relative to the trailer bed. More preferably, the tailboard can rotate until it contacts the ground. Advantageously, this enables the tailboard to be utilised as a ramp to load and unload the trailer contents.

Ideally, the tailboard can fold down such that it is co-planar or substantially co-planar to the bed. Advantageously, this extends the length of the bed. Ideally, the trailer comprises a lock for locking the tailboard in this position. Ideally, when the tailboard is folded down, co-planar or substantially co-planar to the bed, one or more additional panels can be connected to or are connectable to the rear of the trailer bed, the rear of the trailer bed now being defined by the rearmost part of the tailboard. Ideally, the additional panel is arranged projecting upwards from the trailer bed. Most preferably, the additional panel is arrangeable at 90° or about 900 to the trailer bed.

Ideally, the additional panel has a first planar section and a second planar section, wherein the first planar section is at an angle to the second planar section. Advantageously, the panel can be arranged such that the second planar section extends beyond the rear perimeter of the bed. This means that material being transported can be supported on the panel beyond the rear perimeter of the bed thereby increasing the quantity of material that can be transported. The first planar section and second planar section may be two separate panels i0 connected together, or they may be integrally formed with one another.

Ideally, the bed can pivot relative to the chassis. Ideally, the bed is pivoted to the chassis at or towards the rear of the trailer. Advantageously, the trailer can be used as a dump-trailer. Ideally, the trailer comprises a double-pivot between the bed and the chassis. Ideally, the double-pivot is provided by a connecting arm that is pivoted to the chassis and also pivoted to the bed. Ideally, the connected arm is arranged extending from at or about the underside of the chassis to at or about the underside of the bed. Ideally, the trailer comprises a control means for controlling the angle between the connecting arm and the chassis. In one embodiment, the control means is a ram, most preferably a hydraulic ram. Ideally, the ram is pivoted to the chassis and to the connecting arm. Ideally, the ram is pivoted to the connecting arm part way between the two ends of the connecting arm. Ideally, the ram is pivoted to the arm closer to the end of the arm that is pivoted to the bed. Preferably, the ram is pivoted to the topside of the chassis.

Ideally, when the ram is extended the bed is moved over the rear perimeter of the chassis and towards the ground level. Advantageously, this provides a low-tip function whereby the materials on the trailer can be offloaded without substantially raising the bed off the chassis. This is particularly advantageous when there are overhead wires, for example, or where the material on the bed is fragile and cannot be dropped from a significant height. Preferably, when the ram is retracted the bed is moved towards the front of the trailer and upwards. Advantageously, this provides a high-tip function. As the retraction of the ram can raise the bed relative to the chassis, the trailer may have smaller diameter wheels than conventional dump trailers because the trailer is not reliant on the size of the wheels to raise the bed off the ground. Further, as operation of the ram can move the trailer bed towards the front of the trailer, the trailer can be used in smaller area spaces than conventional trailers. Yet further, the high-tip function enables materials such as stone or gravel to be deposited in a smaller area than conventional dump trailers.

Preferably, the trailer comprises a set of two double-pivots, one at either side of the chassis.

Ideally, the trailer comprises a lifting mechanism for lifting the bed off the chassis. Preferably, the lifting mechanism extends between the bed and the chassis. Ideally, the lifting mechanism is attached on one side to the chassis and on the other side to the bed. Ideally, the lifting mechanism comprises an extendable arm. Ideally, the extendable arm is a telescopic arm. Ideally, the extendable arm is a hydraulic ram.

Ideally, the extendable arm comprises one, most preferably two, or more parts. Ideally, the parts of the extendable arm are connectable to or connected to one another. Ideally, the parts are moveable relative to one another. Ideally, a first part of the extendable arm is attached to the chassis and a further part is attached to the trailer bed. Ideally, the extendable arm is i0 pivotally attached to the chassis and/or to the trailer bed. Ideally, the extendable arm is attached to the chassis at a location partway between the front and rear of the chassis. Ideally, the extendable arm is attached to the chassis halfway, or approximately halfway, between the front and rear of the chassis.

Preferably, the extendable arm is attached to the bed at a location part way between the front and rear of the bed. Ideally, the extendable arm is attached to the bed at a location towards the front of the bed. Ideally, the extendable arm is attached to the bed at a location that is up to 25%, 20%, 15% or 10% of the length of the bed from the front of the bed. Ideally, the extendable arm is attached to the bed at a location that is at or around 10% of the length of the bed from the front of the bed.

Ideally, the trailer comprises a chassis. Ideally, the bed is positioned on the chassis.

Ideally, the chassis comprises of two or more parts which are connectable to or connected to one another. Ideally, the parts are moveable relative to one another. This thereby enables the chassis to be extended. Ideally, the chassis extends outwards at the front-side of the trailer.

Ideally, the chassis contains a chassis locking mechanism for locking the two parts of the chassis relative to one another. Ideally, the chassis locking mechanism comprises locking pins. Ideally, the locking pins are preferably hydraulic and/or air locking pins. Ideally, the locking pins secure the chassis into position when in the low loader and/or dump trailer format. Advantageously, this stops the chassis moving or extending when in transit.

Ideally, the axles are located under the chassis. Ideally, the axles are attached to the chassis. Ideally, the position of one or more of the axles may be altered relative to the chassis.

Ideally, the axles can be fixed into specific positions under the chassis. Advantageously, the relative position of the axles can be altered and then the position fixed in place, and this allows the weight of the trailer's load to be more evenly distributed across the entire trailer as the position of the axles can support an evenly distributed load. Ideally, the axles may be fixed in these positions via an axle-securing mechanism. Ideally, the axle or axles are supported on a carriage that can move relative to the chassis. Ideally, the carriage can be slid relative to the chassis. Ideally, the movement of the axle relative to the carriage can be driven by a drive means. Ideally, the drive means may be a hydraulically-powered drive mechanism.

Ideally, the chassis, axle(s) and wheels are configured such that the wheel extends above the upper part of the chassis. Ideally, the chassis is located extending between the wheels.

Ideally, the component parts of the trailer are modular. Advantageously, this enables the individual modular parts to easily be replaced if they are worn or damaged, rather than having to replace the entire trailer.

The trailer can advantageously perform the function of five trailers in an agricultural setting, namely a low loader, dump trailer, grain trailer, dung trailer or bale trailer. Use of the trailer thereby reduces the need to have a large fleet of trailers.

In one embodiment, the trailer may be integrally formed with a cabin and may further comprise an engine.

The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: -Figure 1 is a side view of a trailer according to the invention.

Figure 2 is a rear view of the trailer of Figure 1 with additional side panels. The tailboard and bulkhead are not illustrated for visibility of the sides.

Figure 3 is a side view of the trailer of Figure 1, showing the bulkhead and tailboard partly folded away from the sides.

Figure 4 is a rear view of the trailer of Figure 1 wherein the side panels are folded to define a coplanar surface with the bed. The tailboard and bulkhead are not illustrated for visibility of the sides.

Figure 5 is a side view of the trailer of Figure 1 wherein the chassis and tailboard is extended and the bulkhead is arranged coplanar with the bed.

Figure 6 is a rear view of the trailer of Figure 1 The tailboard and bulkhead are not illustrated for visibility of the sides.

Figure 7 is a further view of the trailer of Figure 6 showing the sides as they are being folded downwards.

Figure 8 is a further view of the trailer of Figure 6 further showing the sides as they are being folded downwards.

Figure 9 is a further view of the trailer of Figure 6 wherein the sides are folded such that they define a coplanar surface with the bed.

Figure 10 is a side view of the trailer of Figure 1 carrying hay bales, wherein the chassis is extended, and the bulkhead and tailboard are coplanar with the bed, and the trailer has additional panels at the front and rear to support the bales.

Figure 11 is a side view of the trailer of Figure 1 in a high-tip configuration.

Figure 12 is a side of the trailer of Figure 1 in a low-tip configuration.

In the drawings there is shown a trailer for agricultural use indicated generally by reference numeral 2. The trailer 2 can be towed by a vehicle (not shown). The trailer 2 has a chassis 4, and a bed 6 which is supported by the chassis 4. The bed 6 is extendable lengthwise in and width-wise. In alternative embodiments not shown, the bed is extendable lengthwise only or width-wise only. The trailer 2 has sides 8 which are connected to the bed 6. In an alternative embodiment, the sides are removable from the bed but are thereafter connectable to the bed. The sides 8 extend upwards from the bed 6. This prevents the load being carried by the trailer 2 from falling off the bed 6. The sides 8 are located at a lateral edge portion 10 of the bed 6.

The sides 8 extend along all of the bed 6. In an alternative embodiment the sides may extend along only a part of the bed. In the embodiment shown, each side 8 is attached to the bed 6 by a side-attachment means 7. The side-attachment means comprises a hinge 9 and the side 8 is hingedly attached to the bed 6. The sides 8 can therefore pivot relative to the bed 6. In an alternative embodiment, one side only may be hinged to the bed.

Each side 8 can pivot relative to the bed 6 through more than 45°. The sides 8 can be folded relative to the bed 6 so that they are coplanar or substantially coplanar with the bed 6. When the sides 8 are folded such that they are coplanar or substantially coplanar with the bed 6, the sides 8 thereby form a part of the bed 6 and the bed 6 is effectively extended width-wise.

The chassis 4 has two axles 12 for supporting wheels 14, and the trailer 2 has wheels 14 fitted to the axles 12. In alternative embodiments not shown, the trailer may have more or less than two axles. When the sides 8 are folded relative to the bed 6 they extend over the wheels 14.

In the embodiment shown, the sides 8 have three panels 9a, 9b, 9c. In an alternative embodiment not shown, the sides may have one panel, two panels or more than three panels.

The sides Sand panels 9a, 9b, 9c have a continuous surface which forms the side of the trailer 2. In an alternative embodiment not shown, the sides and/or panels may have a discontinuous surface, for example, if the side was formed from a mesh or if the panel was a mesh panel. The panels 9a, 9b, 9c extend along the entire length of the bed 6. In an alternative embodiment, the panels may extend along only part of the bed. The sides 8 have a first panel 9a which is connected to the bed 6 and a second panel 9b which is connected to the first panel 9a. The first panel 9a and second panel 9b have the same dimensions. In an alternative embodiment not shown, the panels may have similar dimensions however, the dimensions need not necessarily be the same.

As shown in figures 4 and 9, the trailer 2 can fold down into a low loader format. In this format, the first panel 9a extends over the wheels 14 when it is folded to be coplanar or substantially coplanar with the bed 6. The second panel 9b can rotate through 1800 relative to the first panel 9a. Advantageously, the second panel 9b is folded through 180' to abut the first panel 9a, and the first panel 9a is folded to be coplanar or substantially coplanar with the bed 6. In this configuration, the second panel 9b does not extend beyond the perimeter of the first panel 9a.

i0 The panels 9a, 9b, 9c are connected to one another via a panel attachment means 15.

The panel attachment means 15 is a hinge 16a, 16b. Advantageously, the panel attachment means being a hinge 16a, 16b enables the panels 9a, 9b to pivot relative to one another. In alternative embodiments, the panels may be detachable from one another and re-attachable. The panel attachment means comprises a panel locking mechanism 18 to lock the panels 9a, 9b together. When the panels 9a, 9b are locked together, they cannot move relative to one another.

The sides 8 have a height dimension which can be increased. The height of the sides 8 is increased by moving the second panel 9h relative to the first panel 9a to which it is connected. The height of the sides 8 is further increased by attaching an additional panel 9c to the side panels 9a, 9b. By attaching the additional side panels 9c, this means the trailer is adapted to transport a larger load. The additional panel 9c is attached by an attachment means 16b. Each side panel 9a, 9b, 9c is made of metal. In the illustrated trailer 2, the metal used for each side panel 9a, 9b, 9c is aluminium. In an alternative embodiment not shown, the side panels may be made of any suitable alternative material including metals, composites or plastics.

The trailer 2 has a bulkhead 20 connected to the bed 6. In an alternative embodiment, the bulkhead may be detachable and re-attachable to the bed. The bulkhead 20 is located at or about the front of the trailer 2. By 'front of the trailer' we mean the part of the trailer 2 closest to the vehicle towing the trailer when the trailer 2 is being towed. The bulkhead 20 is connected to the bed 6 through a bulkhead attachment means 21. The bulkhead attachment means 21 comprises a hinge 22. Advantageously, this enables the bulkhead 20 to pivot relative to the bed 6. The bulkhead 20 can be arranged such that it is co-planar or substantially co-planar to the bed 6. The chassis 4 can be extended to support the bulkhead 20 when the bulkhead 20 is arranged such that it is co-planar or substantially co-planar to the bed 6.

The bulkhead 20 has two panels 24a, 24b. In an alternative embodiment, the bulkhead may have one panel or more than two panels. The bulkhead 20 can be folded upwards to abut the sides 8 of the trailer 2. When the bulkhead 20 is folded upwards, the bulkhead 20 sits at 1! about 900 to the bed 6. The bulkhead 20 is secured to the sides 8 via bulkhead securing means 26a. The bulkhead securing means 26a is operable to lock the bulkhead 20 and the sides 8 together. When the bulkhead 20 and sides Bare locked together, they cannot move relative to one another. The bulkhead securing means 26a is operable to secure the bulkhead 20 against the sides 8 and form a seal between the bulkhead 20 and the sides 8 such that material being transported by the trailer 2 cannot fall out of the trailer 2 between the bulkhead 20 and the sides B. Advantageously, this enables the load to be safely transported without the risk of the load falling out.

The first bulkhead panel 24a is connected to the trailer bed 6 and the second bulkhead i 0 panel 24b is connected to the first bulkhead panel 24a. The bulkhead panels 24a, 24b are connected to one another via a bulkhead-panel attachment means 23. The bulkhead-panel attachment means 23 comprises a hinge 25. Advantageously, the bulkhead-panel attachment means being a hinge enables the panels 24a, 24b to pivot relative to one another. The bulkhead-panel attachment means 23 comprises a bulkhead-panel locking mechanism 27 to lock the panels 24a, 24b together. When the panels 24a, 24b are locked together, they cannot move relative to one another.

The first bulkhead panel 24a can rotate through up to 90° relative to the bed 6. The second bulkhead panel 24b can rotate through 180° relative to the first bulkhead panel 24a. The first bulkhead panel 24a has the same dimensions to the second bulkhead panel 24b. In alternative embodiments, the bulkhead panels may not have the same dimensions but may have similar dimensions. When the bulkhead 20 is folded upwards, the second bulkhead panel 24b abuts the first bulkhead panel 24a. In this configuration, the second bulkhead panel 24b does not extend beyond the perimeter of the first panel 24a.

Both panels 24a, 24b of the bulkhead 20 can fold down on to the chassis 4 such that they are co-planar or substantially co-planar to the bed 6. Advantageously, this extends the length of the bed 6. In this configuration, the bulkhead 20 abuts the chassis 4.

In the illustrated embodiment, the bulkhead 20 is attached to the chassis 4. In other embodiments not shown the bulkhead may be detachable from the bulkhead and re-attachable. The bulkhead 20 and the chassis 4 are configured to engage with one another.

The bulkhead 20 comprises an engagement means 28 for engaging with the chassis 4. The engagement means 28 is operable to releasably fix the bulkhead 20 to the chassis 4.

The engagement means 28 comprises one part located on the bulkhead 20, more specifically on the second panel 24b of the bulkhead 20, and another part located on the chassis 4. The engagement means 28 comprises a male element 30 and female receiving recess 32. In the illustrated embodiment, the male element 30 is located on the bulkhead 20 and the female receiving recess 32 is located on the chassis 4. In alternative embodiments not shown, the male element 30 may be located on the chassis and the female receiving recess 32 may be located on the bulkhead. The male element 30 is a pin. The engagement means 28 secures the bulkhead 20 to the chassis 4.

The part of the engagement means 28 on the bulkhead 20 is pivotally connected to the second panel 24b of the bulkhead 20. In alternative embodiments, the part of the engagement means on the bulkhead may be connected to any other suitable part of the bulkhead.

When the bulkhead 20 is in engagement with the chassis 4 via the engagement means 28, as the chassis 4 extends, the bulkhead panels 24a, 24b subsequently extend. When the bulkhead 20 is folded down on-to the chassis 4, co-planar or substantially co-planar to the bed 6, an additional panel 34 can be connected to the front of the trailer bed 6. In alternative i0 embodiments, more than one additional panels may be connected to the front of the trailer and said panels may be attachable and re-attachable to the front of trailer. The front of the trailer bed 6 now being defined by the frontmost part of the bulkhead 20.

The additional panel 34 is arranged projecting upwards from the trailer bed 6. The additional panel 34 is arranged at about 90° to the trailer bed 6. The additional panel 34 has a first planar section 36 and a second planar section 38, wherein the first planar section 36 is at an angle to the second planar section 38. The additional panel 34 is arranged such that the second planar section 38 extends beyond the front perimeter of the bed 6. This means that material being transported can be supported on the panel 34 beyond the front perimeter of the bed 6 thereby increasing the quantity of material that can be transported. The first planar section 36 and second planar section 38 are two separate panels connected together. In alternative embodiments, the first planar section and second planar section may be integrally formed with one another.

The chassis 4 is configured to be towed by a vehicle. The chassis 4 comprises a towbar 40. In alternative embodiments, the trailer may use other suitable means to enable towing. The trailer 2 comprises a tailboard 42. The trailer 2 is located at or about the rear of the trailer 2.

By 'rear of the trailer' we mean the part of the trailer 2 furthest from the vehicle towing the trailer 2 when the trailer 2 is being towed. The tailboard 42 is therefore at the opposing end of the trailer 2 from the bulkhead 20.

The tailboard 42 is connected to the rear of the trailer bed 6 via a tailboard attachment means 43. In alternative embodiments, the tailboard can be detachable from the bed and re-attachable. The tailboard attachment means 43 comprises a hinge 44. This enables the tailboard 42 to pivot relative to the bed 6. The tailboard 42 can be arranged such that it is coplanar or substantially co-planar to the bed 6.

The tailboard 42 can be pivoted from the sides 8, more specifically, from an upper portion 46 of the sides 8. Advantageously, the bed 6 can be pivoted up relative to the chassis 4, and the tailboard 42 can be allowed to pivot relative to the sides 8 thereby allowing material on the bed 6 to be unloaded.

The tailboard 42 can be folded upwards to abut the sides 8 of the trailer 2. When the tailboard 42 is folded upwards, the tailboard 42 sits at about 90° to the bed 6. The tailboard 42 is secured to the sides 8 via a tailboard securing means 26b. The tailboard securing means 26b is operable to lock the tailboard 42 and the sides 8 together. When the tailboard 42 and sides 8 are locked together, they cannot move relative to one another. The tailboard securing means 26b are operable to secure the tailboard 42 against the sides Sand form a seal between the tailboard 42 and the sides 8 such that material being transported by the trailer 2 cannot fall out of the trailer 2 between the tailboard 42 and the sides 8. Advantageously, this enables the load to be safely transported without the risk of the load falling out.

in The tailboard 42 comprises two panels 48, 50. A first tailboard panel 48 is connected to the trailer bed 6 and a second tailboard panel 50 is connected to the first tailboard panel 48. In alternative embodiments, the tailboard may have a single panel or more than two panels. The first tailboard panel 48 has the same dimensions to the second tailboard panel 50. In alternative embodiments, the first tailboard panel may not have the same dimensions as the second tailboard panel, although it may have similar dimensions.

The tailboard panels 48, 50 are connected to one another via a tailboard-panel attachment means 52. The tailboard 42 comprises a locking mechanism 54 to lock the tailboard panels 48, 50 together. When the tailboard panels 48, 50 are locked together, they cannot move relative to one another. The second tailboard panel 50 is moveable slidably relative to the first tailboard panel 48. The second tailboard panel 50 moves between an extended configuration where it extends out from the first tailboard panel 48 and a retracted configuration where it is located below the first tailboard panel 48. It will be apparent to the skilled person that the arrangement could be configured such that the second tailboard panel is located above the first tailboard panel in the retracted configuration. Advantageously, when the second tailboard panel 50 is extended from the first tailboard panel 48, the tailboard 42 can also reach ground level at a less steep incline than the non-extended tailboard 42. This means the load on the trailer 2 can be easily unloaded to ground level with a less steep decline which is advantageous when the load is damageable goods.

The tailboard 42 can be rotated beyond the coplanar configuration with the trailer bed 6. The tailboard 42 can rotate through at least 90° relative to the trailer bed 6. The tailboard 42 can rotate until it contacts the ground. Advantageously, this enables the tailboard 42 to be utilised as a ramp to load and unload the trailer 2 contents.

The tailboard 42 can fold down such that it is co-planar or substantially co-planar to the bed 6. Advantageously, this extends the length of the bed 6. The trailer 2 comprises a lock 56 for locking the tailboard 42 in this position. When the tailboard 42 is folded down, co-planar or substantially co-planar to the bed 6, additional panels can be connected to the rear of the trailer bed 6, the rear of the trailer bed 6 now being defined by the rearmost part of the tailboard 42.

The additional panel 57 is arranged projecting upwards from the trailer bed 6. The additional panel 57 is arrangeable at about 90° to the trailer bed 6.

The additional panel 57 has a first planar section 58 and a second planar section 60, wherein the first planar section 58 is at an angle to the second planar section 60.

Advantageously, the panel being arranged in this position means that the second planar section 60 extends beyond the rear perimeter of the bed 6. This means that material being transported can be supported on the panel 58, 60 beyond the rear perimeter of the bed 6 thereby increasing the quantity of material that can be transported. The first planar section 58a and second planar section 60 are two separate panels connected together. In alternative i 0 embodiments, the first planar section and second planar section may be integrally formed with one another.

The bed 6 can pivot relative to the chassis 4. The bed 6 is pivoted to the chassis 4 towards the rear of the trailer 2. Advantageously, the trailer can be used as a dump-trailer. The trailer 2 comprises a double-pivot 62 between the bed 6 and the chassis 4. The double-pivot 62 is provided by a connecting arm 64 that is pivoted to chassis 4 and also pivoted to the bed 6. The connecting arm 64 is arranged extending from the underside of the chassis 4 to the underside of the bed 6. The trailer 2 comprises a control means 66 for controlling the angle between the connecting arm 64 and the chassis 4. In one embodiment, the control means 66 is a hydraulic ram 68. Other suitable types of control means will be apparent to the skilled person. The ram 68 is pivoted to the chassis 4 and to the connecting arm 64. The ram 68 is pivoted to the arm 64 partway between the two ends of the connecting arm 64. The ram 68 is pivoted to the arm 64 closer to the end of the arm 64 that is pivoted to the bed 6. The ram 68 is pivoted to the topside of the chassis 4.

When the ram 68 is extended the bed 6 is moved over the rear perimeter 60 of the chassis 4 and towards the ground level. Advantageously, this provides a low-tip function whereby the materials on the trailer 2 can be offloaded without substantially raising the bed 6 off the chassis 4. This is particularly advantageous when there are overhead wires, for example, or where the material on the bed 6 is fragile and cannot be dropped from a significant height.

When the ram 68 is retracted the bed 6 is moved towards the front of the trailer 2 and upwards. Advantageously, this provides a high-tip function. As the retraction of the ram 68 can raise the bed 6 relative to the chassis 4, the trailer 2 possesses smaller diameter wheels 14 than conventional dump trailers because the trailer 2 is not reliant on the size of the wheels 14 to raise the bed 6 off the ground. Further, as operation of the ram 68 can move the trailer bed 6 towards the front of the trailer 2, the trailer 2 can be used in smaller area spaces than conventional trailers. Yet further, the high-tip function enables materials such as stone or gravel to be deposited in a smaller area than conventional dump trailers.

The trailer 2 comprises a set of two double-pivots 62, one at either side of the chassis 4. The trailer 2 comprises a lifting mechanism 69 for lifting the bed 6 off the chassis 4. The lifting mechanism extends between the bed 6 and the chassis 4. The lifting mechanism 69 is attached on one side to the chassis 4 and on the other side to the bed 6. The lifting mechanism 69 comprises an extendable arm 70. The extendable arm 70 is a telescopic arm. In alternative embodiments, the lifting mechanism need not be an extendable arm and furthermore, need not be a telescopic arm, provided it is suitable for raising the bed off the chassis. The extendable arm 70 is a hydraulic ram. The arm 70 has four sections that can move relative to one another to extend the arm 70.

i0 The parts of the extendable arm 70 are connected to one another. The parts are also moveable relative to one another. A first part 70a of the extendable arm 70 is attached to the chassis 4 and a further part 70b is attached to the trailer bed 6. The extendable arm 70 is pivotally attached to the chassis 4 and to the trailer bed 6. The extendable arm 70 is attached to the chassis 4 at a location partway between the front and rear of the chassis 4. The extendable arm 70 is attached to the chassis 4 approximately halfway, between the front and rear of the chassis 4.

The extendable arm 70 is attached to the bed 6 at a location part way between the front and rear of the bed 6. The extendable arm 70 is attached to the bed 6 at a location towards the front of the bed 6. The extendable arm 70 is attached to the bed 6 at a location that is around 10% of the length of the bed 6 from the front of the bed 6. In alternative embodiments not shown, the arm may be attached to bed at a location that is up to 25% of the length of the bed from the front of the bed.

The chassis 4 comprises of two parts which are connected to one another. The parts 72a, 72b are moveable relative to one another. This thereby enables the chassis 4 to be extended. The chassis 4 extends outwards at the front-side of the trailer 2.

The chassis 4 contains a chassis locking mechanism 74 for locking the two parts 72a, 72b of the chassis 4 relative to one another. The chassis locking mechanism 74 comprises locking pins 76. The locking pins 76 are hydraulic locking pins. In alternative embodiments the pins are air locking pins. The locking pins 76 secure the chassis 4 into position when in the low loader and/or dump trailer format. Advantageously, this stops the chassis 4 moving or extending when in transit. Each part 72a, 72b of the chassis 4 is made of metal. The metal is steel. Furthermore, in alternative embodiments, one or more parts of the chassis may not be made of metal and may be made of another suitable material. In alternative embodiments, the metal may not be steel and may be another metal.

The trailer 2 comprises of two axles 12. In an alternative embodiment, the trailer may comprise of one axle or more than two axles. The axles 12 are located under the chassis 4. The axles 12 are attached to the chassis 4. The position of the axles 12 can be altered relative to the chassis 4. The axles 12 can be fixed into specific positions under the chassis 4. Advantageously, the relative position of the axles 12 can be altered and then the position fixed in place, and this allows the weight of load on the trailer 2 to be more evenly distributed across the entire trailer 2 as the position of the axles 12 can support an evenly distributed load. The axles 12 can be fixed in these positions via an axle-securing mechanism 80. The axles 12 are supported on a carriage 79 that can move relative to the chassis 4. The carriage 79 can be slid relative to the chassis 4. The movement of the axles 12 relative to the carriage 79 can be driven by a hydraulically-powered drive means 81. In alternative embodiments not shown the carriages are driven by any suitable alternatively powered drive means.

i0 The trailer 2 has four wheels 14. In alternative embodiments, the trailer may possess two wheels, or more than four wheels. The wheels 14 are attached to the axles 12 of the trailer 2 via connection means 82. The chassis 4, axles 12 and wheels 14 are configured such that the wheel 14 extends above the upper part of the chassis 4. The chassis 4 is located extending between the wheels 14.

The component parts of the trailer 2 are modular. Advantageously, this enables the individual modular parts to easily be replaced if they are worn or damaged, rather than having to replace the entire trailer 2. The trailer 2 can advantageously perform the function of five trailers in an agricultural setting, namely a low loader, dump trailer, grain trailer, dung trailer or bale trailer. Use of the trailer 2 thereby reduces the need to have a large fleet of trailers.

The trailer can do the job of multiple trailers by mechanically transforming from for example a 20 ton low loader to a 16 ton dump trailer thus reducing the need for an extra trailer, tractor and driver on site. In the case of a farmer or building contractor it is often necessary to transport excavation equipment to site using a low loader trailer and do a return trip to collect a dump trailer. This can take a considerable amount of time or even days depending on the distance involved, there is also an extra fuel cost to be considered. The trailer of the present invention can transport the excavation equipment to site, when the machinery is offloaded the operator can then transform the trailer from low loader format to dump trailer format eliminating the need for an extra trailer to be collected and allowing the operator to commence work immediately. When the excavation equipment is no longer required on site the operator can then load his machinery and leave the site promptly with no extra haulage required.

Costumers that purchase the trailer will see a reduced investment in plant and machinery. In the case of the farmer with a few added extras the trailer can do the job of five trailers on the farm, a low loader, dump, grain, dung and bale trailer. The farmer or contractor will also see a reduction in the maintenance costs associated with keeping a large fleet of trailers operational.

From an environmental point of view the trailer has a very positive impact by primarily reducing the fuel consumption of either the building contractor, farmer or commercial business but also by reducing the need for extra tyres, steel, paint components etc. Although these components are necessary their manufacture impacts negatively on the environment.

If storage space on the farm yard or building site is an issue the trailer, although doing the job of several trailers will only take up the foot print of one 16ft dump trailer. When being shipped, the trailer can be put in low loader format and can be transported four at time using a process called piggy backing the trailers as opposed to shipping one or maximum two conventional dumpers at any one time on one truck.

The trailer has a unique high and low tip mechanism allowing the operator a reduced overall tipping height for tipping indoors or on a confined site with overhead wires. This i0 mechanism also allows tipping of damageable goods such as beat, vegetables or fruit.

Although the trailer has a low profile chassis with smaller diameter wheels than conventional dump trailers, the high tip mechanism allows the operator to tip a large quantity of stone or gravel in a small area similar to many dump trailers currently on the market. However, unlike conventional dump trailers the trailer of the present invention is designed to have bolt on components which are easily replaceable should a section get damaged.

The trailer transforms from a dump trailer to a flat bed load loader by extending the length of its chassis using one telescoping member inside a larger member. As the tractor moves forward the chassis extends out to a greater length. Both in dumper format and low-loader format the chassis is locked in position by means of hydraulic or air locking pins. In another version the operator can move the location of the axels under the chassis of the trailer to balance the load and remove weight from the draw bar. This is done hydraulically by sliding a carriage that retains the wheels along the main chassis of the trailer.

The skilled person will appreciate that all preferred or optional features of the invention described with reference to only some aspects or embodiments of the invention may be applied to all aspects of the invention.

It will be appreciated that optional features applicable to one aspect of the invention can be used in any combination, and in any number. Moreover, they can also be used with any of the other aspects of the invention in any combination and in any number. This includes, but is not limited to, the dependent claims from any claim being used as dependent claims for any other claim in the claims of this application.

In relation to the detailed description of the different embodiments of the invention, it will be understood that one or more technical features of one embodiment can be used in combination with one or more technical features of any other embodiment where the transferred use of the one or more technical features would be immediately apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art to carry out a similar function in a similar way on the other embodiment.

The features disclosed in the foregoing description or the following drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing a disclosed function, or a method or a process of attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may separately, or in any combination of such features be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A trailer for agricultural use, wherein the trailer can be towed by a vehicle, the trailer comprising a chassis and a bed wherein the bed is supported by the chassis, and wherein the bed is ideally extendable lengthwise and/or width-wise.
2. A trailer as claimed in claim 1, wherein the trailer has sides that are connectable to or connected to the bed, the sides extendable upwards from the bed.
3. A trailer as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the sides are located at a lateral edge portion of the bed, the sides extending along all or part of the bed, at least one side, i0 most preferably each side, being hingedly connected to the bed so that the at least one side sides can pivot relative to the bed through more than 45°.
4. A trailer as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the side can be folded relative to the bed so that it is coplanar or substantially coplanar with the bed thereby forming a part of the bed such that the bed is effectively extended width-wise.
5. A trailer as claimed in claim 2, wherein at least one side, most preferably each side, has two or more panels, the panels being connectable to or are connected to one another, the panels extending along all or part of the bed.
6. A trailer as claimed in claim 5, wherein one side or each side comprises a first panel which is connected to the bed and a second panel which is connected to the first panel.
7. A trailer as claimed in claim 5 or claim 6 wherein, the second panel can rotate through up to 180° relative to the first panel so that the second panel can be folded through 180° to abut the first panel, and the first panel can be folded to be coplanar or substantially coplanar with the bed so that the second panel does not extend beyond the perimeter of the first panel.
8. A trailer as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the panels are connected to one another via a panel attachment means, the panel attachment means comprises a hinge.
9. A trailer as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein the panel attachment means comprises a panel locking mechanism to lock panels together so that when the panels are locked together, they cannot move relative to one another.
A trailer as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 9, wherein the sides have a height dimension which can be increased by moving one panel relative to another panel to which it is connected or by attaching an additional panel to the side panels.
11 A trailer as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the chassis comprises one or more axles for supporting wheels and the one or more axles have wheels fitted thereto.
12 A trailer as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the trailer has a bulkhead connectable to or connected to the bed, the bulkhead being located at or about the front of the trailer, the bulkhead being connectable to or connected to the bed through a bulkhead attachment means comprising a hinge.
13 A trailer as claimed in claim 12, wherein the bulkhead is arranged such that it is co-planar or substantially co-planar to the bed.
14 A trailer as claimed in claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the chassis is extendable to support the bulkhead when the bulkhead is arranged such that it is co-planar or substantially co-planar to the bed.i 0 15 A trailer as claimed in any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the bulkhead comprises one or more bulkhead panels, a first bulkhead panel is connected to the trailer bed and a second bulkhead panel is connected to the first bulkhead panel, the bulkhead panels are connected to one another via a bulkhead-panel attachment means comprising a hinge.16 A trailer as claimed in any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein the bulkhead can be folded upwards to abut the sides of the trailer so that when the bulkhead is folded upwards, the bulkhead being secured to the sides via one or more bulkhead securing means.17 A trailer as claimed in claim 15, wherein the first bulkhead panel can rotate through up to 900 relative to the bed and wherein the second bulkhead panel can rotate through 1800 relative to the first panel.18 A trailer as claimed in claim 15 or 17, wherein both bulkhead panels can fold down on to the chassis such that they are co-planar or substantially co-planar to the bed thereby extending the length of the bed.19 A trailer as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the trailer comprises a tailboard, the tailboard being connectable to or connected to the rear of the trailer bed via a tailboard attachment means comprising a hinge enabling the tailboard to pivot relative to the bed, the tailboard be arrangeable such that it is co-planar or substantially co-planar to the bed.A trailer as claimed in claim 19, wherein the tailboard can be folded upwards to abut the sides of the trailer so that when the tailboard is folded upwards, the tailboard being secured to the sides via one or more tailboard securing means.21 A trailer as claimed in claim 19 or 20, wherein the tailboard comprises two or more tailboard panels, a first tailboard panel being connected to the trailer bed and a second tailboard panel is connected to the first tailboard panel, the tailboard panels are connected to one another via a tailboard-panel attachment means.22 A trailer as claimed in claim 21, wherein, the second panel is moveable slidably relative to the first panel so that the second panel can move between an extended configuration where it extends out from the first panel and a retracted configuration where it is located above or below the first panel, so that when the second panel is extended from the first panel, the tailboard can also reach ground level at a less steep incline than the non-extended tailboard such that the load on the trailer can be easily unloaded to ground level with a less steep decline.23 A trailer as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein the tailboard can fold down such that it is co-planar or substantially co-planar to the bed thereby extending the length of the bed.24 A trailer as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the bed is pivotable relative to the chassis, the bed being pivoted to the chassis at or towards the rear of the trailer, the trailer comprising a double-pivot between the bed and the chassis provided by a connecting arm that is pivoted to the chassis and also pivoted to the bed.A trailer as claimed in claim 24, wherein the trailer comprises a control means for controlling the angle between the connecting arm and the chassis, the control means being a ram, the ram being pivoted to the chassis and to the connecting arm part way between the two ends of the connecting arm, the ram being pivoted to the arm closer to the end of the arm that is pivoted to the bed, the ram being pivoted to the topside of the chassis so that when the ram is extended the bed is moved over the rear perimeter of the chassis and towards the ground level providing a low-tip function whereby the materials on the trailer can be offloaded without substantially raising the bed off the chassis and when the ram is retracted the bed is moved towards the front of the trailer and upwards thereby providing a high-tip function. As the retraction of the ram can raise the bed relative to the chassis, the trailer may have smaller diameter wheels than conventional dump trailers because the trailer is not reliant on the size of the wheels to raise the bed off the ground.