DUAL PURPOSE MINI-TRAILER CASE

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates in general to a foldable mini-trailer and case. In particular, the present invention relates to a dual purpose foldable case that functions as the load bearing surface of the mini-trailer when in use, and as the storage case for the mini-trailer when not in use. More particularly, the present invention relates to a mini-trailer and case that are suitable for storage in areas with limited space.

Background of the Invention

When desiring to transport an object that is too large to fit in the trunk or interior of a vehicle, or is not suitable to be secured to the roof rack or a rack in the rear of a vehicle, a trailer is typically coupled to the exterior of the back end of the vehicle, the large object is placed thereon, and the trailer is pulled in tow as the vehicle travels.

US 4,230,340 discloses a trailer comprising a chassis having two cross- members, interconnected by two side members, and further comprising a tow bar and wheels, which, when not in use, can be folded and stored in the trunk of a car. US 4,230,340 attempts to overcome drawbacks related to prior art trailers that cannot be easily stored in a vehicle, such as a small vehicle as well as a mono-space vehicle or any vehicle having integral manufacturer's options. However, when storing the trailer of US 4,230,340 in a vehicle, the trailer plate, which may be dirty due to exposure to the elements, as well as the foldable wheels, which may contain mud, oil or other undesirable material found on the road, will soil the inside of the vehicle, as well as one's hands during handling.

Furthermore, since the load bearing surface of the trailer does not comprise any side-guards, one must be particularly careful when fastening the load to the trailer in order to prevent the load from sliding off the surface during travel.

US 4,165,096 discloses a foldable storable trailer having an open-box type loading surface, a pair of retractable wheels and a foldable tow bar. The trailer further comprises a removable cover that functions as a storage receptacle for the trailer, when the trailer is not in use. The cover encloses the retractable wheels from underneath the loading surface. However, since the wheels are retractable, not inwardly foldable, the trailer, even in its storage position, must be at least as thick as the diameter of the wheels. This is problematic when the area in which the trailer is stored is required to be stored in is limited, such as the trunk of a small vehicle.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a storable mini-trailer comprising a carrying case for storing a mini-trailer therein, which overcomes the disadvantages associated with prior art storable trailers.

It is an additional object of the present invention to provide a carrying case for storing a mini-trailer therein when not in use, and which functions as the load bearing surface of the mini-trailer when in use.

It is an additional object of the present invention to provide a carrying case for storing a mini-trailer therein, which prevents dirtying the storage area, particularly the trunk of a vehicle.

It is an additional object of the present invention to provide a carrying case for storing a mini-trailer therein, whose overall outer dimensions are minimal.

It is an additional object of the present invention to provide a dual purpose mini-trailer which prevents dirtying the area in which it is stored, particularly the trunk of a vehicle.

Other purposes and advantages of the invention will appear as the description proceeds.

Summary of the Invention

The present invention relates to a storable mini-trailer system for coupling to the back end of a vehicle in a use state and for storing in said vehicle in said storage state. The system comprises: a. a mini-trailer having at least a fully folded position in said storage state and a load bearing position in said use state, said mini-trailer comprising: i. a load bearing member for supporting a load; ii. at least two wheel units pivotally joined to said load bearing member, wherein said wheel units are oriented essentially orthogonal to said load bearing member in said load bearing position, and oriented essentially parallel to said load bearing member in said fully folded position; and, iii. a tow bar for coupling said trailer to a vehicle;

b. a dual purpose carrying case having at least a storing position in said storage state, and a fully open position in said use state, said case comprising: i. first and second half sections pivotably joined to each other such that said carrying case may be selectively switched between said storing position and said fully open position; and, ii. locking mechanism for locking said case when in said open position to said load bearing member when in said load bearing position, wherein when said mini-trailer is in said fully folded position and said carrying case is in said storing position, said mini-trailer is storable within said carrying case, and when said mini-trailer is in said load bearing position and said carrying case is in said fully open position, said carrying case functions as a load bearing member for supporting a load thereon.

According to one embodiment, the trailer further comprises a first and second half plate, pivotably joined to each other, and the at least two wheels are layable essentially flat along at least one of the half plates.

A system according to claim 1, wherein the tow bar is removable from the mini-trailer, and storable in the carrying case. According to one embodiment, a cross bar extends orthogonally from the sides of the tow bar.

Each half section of the system comprises a flat surface having four edges, of which each of three adjacent edges have a side wall integrally protruding upward, orthogonal to each essentially flat surface.

The locking mechanism comprises at least one locking plug.

Preferably, at least one side wall comprises, as an integral part thereof, at least any one of the group consisting of: a. a license plate; b. a license plate light; c. brake lights; d. right/left blinker lights; and, e. any combination thereof.

The arrangement for providing electrical communication between the vehicle and the lights located on at least one side wall of the case, comprises: a. a connector for connecting to the electrical socket located at the vehicle; b. a male plug located at one of the plates of the mini- trailer; c. first wiring for connecting said connector to said male plug; d. a female plug for engaging with male plug, said female plug situated at one of the half sections of the case; and, e. second wiring for connecting said female plug to said lights.

Preferably, the shape of the case and the mini- trailer is adapted to fit into the trunk of a small vehicle, a mono-space vehicle or a vehicle having integral manufacturer's options.

Brief Description of the Drawings

In the drawings:

- Fig. Ia illustrates a perspective view of a prior art mini-trailer.

- Fig. Ib illustrates a perspective view of the underside of the prior art mini-trailer of Fig. Ia, wherein the wheels are folded inward.

- Fig. Ic illustrates a perspective view of the prior art mini-trailer of Fig. Ia in a fully folded position.

- Fig. 2a illustrates a perspective view of a first embodiment of the carrying case of the present invention, containing the mini-trailer and foldable tow bar of the present invention, wherein the carrying handle is attached to the carrying case.

- Fig. 2b illustrates the view of Fig. 2a, with the carrying handle removed from the carrying case.

- Fig. 3a illustrates a perspective view of the carrying case of the present invention, in a partially open position.

Fig. 3b illustrates a perspective view of the carrying case of Fig. 3a, in a fully open position.

Fig. 4 illustrates a perspective view of the carrying case of Fig. 2a, wherein the mini-trailer is partially removed therefrom.

Fig. 5a illustrates a perspective view of the underside of the carrying case of Fig. 3b secured to the first embodiment of the min- trailer of the present invention.

Fig. 5b illustrates a front perspective view, of the carrying case of Fig. 3b secured to the first embodiment of the mini-trailer of the present invention.

Fig. 6 illustrates a back perspective view of Fig. 5b, showing the license plate of the vehicle and the vehicle's rear lights integrated within the rear side wall of the carrying case.

Figs. 7a and 7b illustrate the carrying case of the present invention having side walls curving concavely inward (Fig. 7a) in order to adapt to the trunk of a vehicle (Fig. 7b).

Fig. 8 illustrates a top perspective view of a second embodiment of the carrying case and mini- trailer in the fully open and load bearing positions, respectively.

Fig. 9 illustrates a side view of a second embodiment of the carrying case and mini-trailer in the fully open and load bearing positions, respectively.

Fig. 10 illustrates a side view of the second embodiment of the carrying case in a storing position.

Fig. 11 illustrates a perspective view of of a second embodiment of the carrying case and mini-trailer, wherein the carrying case is in the storing position and situated on top of the mini-trailer.

Fig. 12 illustrates a perspective view of the second embodiment wherein the side walls of the carrying case are faced downwards.

Fig. 13 illustrates a side view of the second embodiment wherein the side walls of the earring case are faced downwards.

Fig. 14 illustrates a top perspective view of the mini-trailer of the second embodiment in a load bearing position.

Fig. 15 illustrates a bottom view of the second embodiment showing the cross-bar beneath the carrying case in the open position.

Fig. 16 illustrates the mini-trailer of the second embodiment in a bottom perspective view with the wheels partially folded inward.

Fig. 17 illustrates a perspective view of the mini-trailer of the second embodiment in a fully folded position.

Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments

A prior art foldable mini-trailer (10) for coupling to the exterior of the back end of a vehicle is shown in Figs. Ia — Ic. The prior art mini-trailer (10), shown in its load bearing position in Fig. Ia, comprises an essentially flat, load bearing member (12) comprising first half plate (13) and second half plate (15) hingedly joined to each other at hinges (18), and further comprises wheel units (14) and tow bar (16). Wheel units (14) are pivotally joined to load bearing member (12). In the load bearing position, wheel units (14) are oriented essentially orthogonal to load bearing member (12). Fig. Ib shows load bearing member (12) in the fully folded position, wherein wheel units (14) inwardly folded such that wheel units (14) lay essentially flat along the underside (11) of the prior art mini- trailer (10), essentially parallel to load bearing member (12). Alternatively, wheel units (14) may be inwardly folded such that wheel units (14) lay essentially flat along load bearing member (12) of the prior art mini-trailer (10) (not illustrated). In its fully folded position, shown in Fig. Ic, the prior art mini-trailer (10) is folded inwardly, essentially in half, such that wheel units (14) are sandwiched between first hah ⁷ plate (13) and second hah ⁷ plate (15).

Tow bar (16) may be removed from mini-trailer (10) to allow mini-trailer (10) to collapse to its folded position, and replaced thereto when in its load

bearing position, by sliding tow bar (16) out of and into holders (17a- 17c), respectively.

As described above, several disadvantages are associated with the prior art mini-trailer (10). For instance, during storage, mud, oil and other dirt that may have been collected by the mini-trailer (10) during use will soil the storage area. Additionally, one's hands may become soiled when handling the mini-trailer (10). The present invention is directed to a carrying case that fully encloses the entire mini-trailer (10), thereby preventing unwanted dirt from dirtying the storage area, as well as enabling clean and convenient handling thereof.

The present invention further relates to a dual purpose compact carrying case for storing a foldable mini-trailer therein. The compact size of the carrying case enables the mini-trailer to be stored, when not in use, in an area having limited space, particularly the trunk of a small vehicle, a mono-space vehicle or any vehicle having integral manufacturer's options.

A first embodiment of the system of the present invention is shown in Fig. 2a in a storage state, wherein the mini-trailer carrying case (20) is in a storing position, and contains mini-trailer (100). Mini-trailer (100) comprises all of the features of prior art mini-trailer (10), mutatis mutandis, having some differences, as described herein below.

As shown in Fig. 2a, tow bar (16) comprises two sections (although it could be more than two) that are hinged together such that tow bar (16) may be folded and stored between first half plate (13) and second half plate (15), similar to wheel units (14), along with mini-trailer (100) in case (20). Alternatively, tow bar (16) may be reduced in size by telescopic means, or

by completely separating the sections from each other into independent components. Tow bar (16) is optionally held in place when stored in case by mechanical means such as hooks or magnets (not shown).

Figs. 3a and 3b show case (20), comprising a first half section (22) and a second half section (24), in a partially open position (Fig. 3a) and a fully open position (Fig. 3b). Each half section (22), (24) comprises an essentially flat surface having four edges, of which each of three adjacent edges have a side wall (22a-22c) and (24a-24c), respectively, integrally extending upward, substantially orthogonal to each flat surface, thereby forming a U-shape. Opposing side walls (22a), (22c) of first half section (22) are pivotably joined to corresponding opposing side walls (24a), (24c) of second half section (24) at pivot (25).

In a storing position, as shown in Fig. 4, mini-trailer (100) may be slid into and out of case (20) through the opening formed by edges (26), (28) which do not have side walls extending therefrom.

Referring to Figs. 2a and 2b, carrying handle (30) is removably attached to first and second half sections (22), (24) on opposite sides of the opening through which mini-trailer (100) may be removed, thereby preventing mini- trailer (100) from unintentionally falling out of case (20). Carrying handle (30) comprises a handle portion (32) for allowing a user to conveniently carry and handle case (20), including during insertion and removal to and from a storage area such as the trunk of a vehicle. Tabs (31) are snapped or otherwise removably attached to respective slots (33).

As seen in Fig. 4, each half plate (120), (130) of mini-trailer (100) comprises a protruding locking plug (38), situated substantially near each outer corner. A bottom perspective view (Fig. 5a) and a top perspective

view (Fig. 5b) of the system of the present invention in the use state is shown, wherein mini-trailer (120) and case (20) are shown in their load baring and fully open positions. Each plug (38) is lodged in openings (42) correspondingly situated substantially near each outer corner of first and second half sections (22), (24) of case (20), thereby securing case (20) to mini-trailer (100).

According to one aspect, locking plugs (38) may be the type that are inserted through openings (42) and rotated in one direction in order to lock case (20) to mini- trailer (10). Alternatively, a conventional nut and bolt combination may be provided for locking case (20) to mini-trailer (100), or alternatively, any other means for locking or otherwise securing case (20) to mini-trailer (100) may be utilized.

Side walls (22a-22c), (24a-24c) (Figs. 3a and 3b) provide side support for the load, thereby preventing the load from slipping off the flat surface of the carrying case (20) during travel. Ropes, or any desired fastening means, may be fastened at their ends to side walls (22a-22c), (24a-24c), for further securing the load to case (20).

According to one aspect, as shown in Fig. 6 the license plate (43) of the towing vehicle may be an integral part of carrying case (20), and situated along the rear side wall (22b) thereof. Side wall (22b) additionally allows large lights (44) to be situated thereon, which, therefore provides greater illumination, in comparison to the smaller lights (not shown) situated at the back of prior art mini- trailer (10). Also provided as an integral part of

side wall (22b) are left/right blinker lights, as well as the license plate light.

A connector (not shown in the figures), for connecting to the electrical socket located at the rear of a vehicle, is situated near the free end (17) of tow bar (16) (see Fig. 5a). Wiring for providing electrical communication between the vehicle and mini-trailer (100), extends from the connector to a male plug (not shown) located at first plate (130) of mini-trailer (100). When case (20) is situated on trailer (100) the male plug engages with a female plug (or, socket) (not shown), located at first half section (22) of case (20). Electrical communication between the vehicle and case (20) is required for controlling at least the left and right blinkers, the license plate light and the brake lights, and for providing grounding. Additional wiring (not shown) is run from the female plug, along the upper surface of case (20), until reaching the lights (44) at side wall (22b) (see Fig.6). Alternatively, the additional wiring may be embedded within the body of case (20), as is done in a printed circuit board.

According to another embodiment, and referring to Figs. 7a and 7b, the shape as well as dimensions of mini-trailer (100) and carrying case (20) may be adapted to fit comfortably in the trunk of a small vehicle (62), in order not to interfere with the wheel humps (60) located generally along the opposing sides of the trunk of the vehicle (62). This is achieved by inwardly rounding the sides of mini-trailer (100a) and case (20a), thereby forming concave sides (64). Alternatively, mini-trailer (100) and carrying case (20) may be shaped for fitting in a mono-space vehicle or any vehicle having integral manufacturer's options.

According to a preferred embodiment, mini-trailer (100) and case (20) range in a combined weight of between 12-30kg.

According to a preferred embodiment, not shown in the figures, a track may be installed along the side walls of the trunk of a vehicle in order to ease insertion and removal of case (20) or (20a) to and from the trunk.

In conclusion, the dual purpose carrying case of the present invention enables a mini-trailer to be stored in an area with limited space, such as the trunk of a small vehicle, without soiling the area. Additionally, the dual purpose carrying case functions as the load bearing member when in its working position, and prevents a load from slipping off the mini-trailer.

A second embodiment of the present invention is shown in an upper perspective view in Fig. 8 and in a side view in Fig. 9, and comprises all of the features and advantages of the first embodiment, mutatis mutandis, with several differences as described herein below. Referring to Figs. 8 and 9, mini-trailer carrying case (2000) is in its fully open position removably fixed to and situated on top of the mini-trailer (1000). Tow bar (1016) extends outward, as described herein below. Foldable wheel units (1014) depend from mini-trailer (1000) as described herein below.

First half section (2022) and second half section (2024) of carrying case (2000) comprise side walls (2022a-2022c) and (2024a-2024c) extending upward at the outer edges thereof. Furthermore, first half section (2022) and second half section (2024) of carrying case (2000) are pivotably foldable about pivots (2018), similar to carrying case (200) of the first

embodiment. Carrying case (2000) is shown in its storing position in Fig. 10 after first half section (2022) and second half section (2024) are folded together, about pivots (2018).

As best seen in Fig. 9, mini-trailer (1000) is situated beneath carrying case (2000) such that most of the length (M) of mini-trailer (1000) is situated beneath first half section (2022), and part of mini-trailer (1000) is situated below second half section (2024). Carrying case (2000) may be removably fixed to mini-trailer (1000) by a locking (or, securing) mechanism of any known mechanical means including hooks and latches, magnetic means, adhesive surfaces, etc.

Fig. 11 shows a perspective view of carrying case (2000) in its storing position, situated on top of mini-trailer (1000) in its load bearing position. In this aspect, the entire mini-trailer (1000) (except for the extending portion of tow bar (1016)) is situated below first half section (2022) (upon which is folded, second half section (2024)). Thus, an object requiring towing may be enclosed and protected from the elements by folding second half section (2024) over first half section (2022), thereby creating a closed box structure.

According to an alternative aspect of the second embodiment, as shown in perspective view in Fig. 12 and side view in Fig. 13, carrying case (2000) may be situated above mini-trailer (1000), wherein side walls (2022a- 2022c), (2024a-2024c) are faced downwards. According to this aspect, mini-trailer (1000) is flanked snuggly on opposing sides by a portion of side walls (2022a, 2024a) and (2022c, 2024c), respectively. In addition to

the mechanisms for locking carrying case (2000) to mini-trailer (1000) as described herein above, according to this aspect, mini-trailer (1000) may fit tightly between side walls (2022a, 2024a) and (2022c, 2024c) to provide frictional engagement between mini-trailer (1000) and carrying case (2000).

Fig. 14 shows a top perspective view of mini-trailer (1000) in its load bearing position. Tow bar (1016) comprises transverse cross-bar (1017) extending orthogonally from both sides of tow bar (1016) at a predetermined distance from front side-wall (1002) of mini-trailer (1000). Fig. 15 shows a bottom view of the first aspect of the second embodiment, wherein cross-bar is shown for allowing carrying case (2000) to be situated in a stable (or, balanced) arrangement on mini-trailer (1000). Referring back to Fig. 14, extension portion (1010) is provided for receiving the removable tow bar (1016) therein, as described herein below. The load bearing member (1001) of mini-trailer (1000) is shown in the figures comprising an arrangement of cross-bars joining the upper edges of adjacent side walls (1002)-(1004) as well as of the central bar (1011) to each other. Alternatively, load bearing member (1001) may comprise a continuous, or solid layer.

Mini-trailer (1000) is shown in Fig. 16 in a bottom perspective view, wherein the tow bar is removed therefrom and wheel units (1014) are partially folded inwards. Extension member (1010) comprises a hollow central bar (1011) extending from the outer tip of extension member (1010) along the entire length (M) of mini-trailer (1000). The tow bar is insertably removable from central bar (1011). Wheel brackets (1034), for

supporting the wheels, are pivotably joined to front and back side walls (1002), (1006). The rotation of brackets (1034) (and, in turn, wheel units (1014)) about pivots (1034a), (1034b) past a predetermined angle is prevented in one direction by load bearing member (1001) and in the other direction by a protruding stopper (136) which contacts receiving groove (138) situated in side walls (1004) and (1008) of mini- trailer (1000).

Preferably, a suitable spring or locking member (not shown in figures) allows wheel units (1014) to remain in the unfolded position for when riding along a road surface. In an alternative aspect of the second embodiment, more than two wheels may be present.

Fig. 17 shows mini-trailer (1000) in the fully folded position, wherein tow bar (1016) is removed and wheel units (1014) are fully folded inwards. Preferably, a suitable spring or locking member (not shown in figures) allows wheel units (1014) to remain in the folded position as shown in the figure.

When mini-trailer (1000) is in the fully folded position, it may be stored within carrying case (2000) in the storing position, thereby protecting the handler, or the storage area from becoming soiled from wheel units (1014) and the like. The tow bar may be comprised of foldable or otherwise collapsible, such as telescopically, members to allow the tow bar to be stored within carrying case (2000) along with mini-trailer.

While only one embodiment of the invention has been described by way of illustration, it will be understood that the invention may be carried into

practice with many modifications, variations and adaptations, without departing from its spirit or exceeding the scope of the claims.