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Title:
A MOBILE CARGO CARRIER
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2016/000042
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
The invention provides a mobile cargo carrier for mounting onto the rear of a vehicle, the mobile cargo carrier including a storage container having a wheel arrangement, suspension means for removably connecting the storage container to a rear of a vehicle, and a jacking mechanism for moving the storage container between a suspended position, in which the storage container is suspended above the road surface, and a standing position, in which the storage container stands on the road surface. The jacking means may be scissor-action jacking means, and may serve to elevate the storage container from the wheel arrangement when removed from the vehicle.

Inventors:
TANSLEY JARED MASON (AU)
Application Number:
PCT/AU2015/050372
Publication Date:
January 07, 2016
Filing Date:
July 02, 2015
Export Citation:
Click for automatic bibliography generation   Help
Assignee:
TANSLEY JARED MASON (AU)
International Classes:
B60R9/06; B60R9/00
Foreign References:
US7249771B12007-07-31
US6802441B12004-10-12
US20040173654A12004-09-09
US8061572B22011-11-22
US20090232633A12009-09-17
US6260752B12001-07-17
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
SMIT IP PTY LTD (Victoria ParkPerth, Western Australia 6100, AU)
Download PDF:
Claims:
CLAIMS

1. A mobile cargo carrier for mounting onto the rear of a vehicle, the mobile cargo carrier including:

a storage container having a wheel arrangement;

suspension means for removably connecting the storage container to a rear of a vehicle, the suspension means operable to suspend the storage container from the rear of the vehicle above the road surface; and

jacking means for vertically displacing the storage container relative to the wheel arrangement.

2. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 1 , wherein the suspension means is integral with the storage container.

3. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 1 , wherein the suspension means is in the form of a mounting bracket having a vehicle connection formation and a storage container connection formation.

4. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 3, wherein the vehicle connection formation is in the form of a vehicle hitch connection formation, for connecting to a vehicle tow hitch.

5. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 3, wherein the vehicle connection formation is in the form of a shank, for connecting to a standard hitch receiver of a vehicle.

6. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 3, wherein the mounting bracket includes a vehicle hitch connection formation and a storage container connection formation, removably connectable to one another, such that the mounting bracket can be disassembled into two separate parts.

7. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 6, wherein the vehicle hitch connection formation and storage container connection formation are attached or attachable to one another with one or more pin bolts.

8. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 4, wherein the vehicle hitch connection formation includes an upwardly angled connector for connecting to the storage container connection formation.

9. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 5, wherein the angle of the upwardly angled connector is about 45° relative to the horizontal, thereby to provide the storage container with a high road clearance when mounted on the vehicle.

10. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 3, wherein the storage container connection formation is shaped and dimensioned to removably connect to a complementary connection formation on the storage container.

1 1. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 10, wherein the complementary connection formation is in the form of one or more locking bars.

12. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 1 1 , wherein the complementary connection formation is in the form of horizontal locking bars vertically spaced from each other on one side of the storage container.

13. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 12, wherein one or more of the locking bars are movable from an in-use position, in which the locking bars extend from the storage container, and a stowed condition, in which the locking bars are folded onto the storage container.

14. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 3, wherein the storage container connection formation is in the form of one or more hooks.

15. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 14, wherein the storage container connection formation is in the form of at least two hooks vertically spaced from one another.

16. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 15, wherein the at least two hooks are movable towards and away from one another, to engage and disengage the complementary connection formation on the storage container.

17. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 15, wherein at least one of the hooks is pivotably displaceable in an operatively vertical direction, to engage and disengage the complementary connection formation on the storage container.

18. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 3, wherein the storage container connection formation is in the form of a mounting plate, onto which the storage container is mountable.

19. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 18, in which the storage container includes a complementary connection formation in the form of a lifting recess shaped and dimensioned to receive the mounting plate.

20. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 19 wherein, in use, the mounting plate keys into the lifting recess and self-locks onto the storage container.

21. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of claims 3 to 20, wherein the mounting bracket includes a jacking mechanism for moving the storage container between a suspended position, in which the storage container is suspended above the road surface, and a standing position, in which the storage container stands on the road surface.

22. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 21 , wherein the jacking mechanism is in the form of a scissor jack or hydraulic jack.

23. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of claims 3 to 22, wherein the jacking mechanism is a hydraulic bottle jack and wherein the jacking mechanism includes a back plate attached to the vehicle connection formation.

24. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein the jacking mechanism further includes one or more lifting arms hingedly connected at one end to the back plate and hingedly connected at an opposed end to the storage container connection formation.

25. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 24, wherein an actuator is provided between the backing plate and one or more lifting arms, in use, for moving the lifting arms up or down.

26. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 25, wherein the actuator is in the form of any one of a hydraulic-, electric-, or manually-driven mechanism.

27. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 25 or claim 26, wherein the actuator is in the form of an hydraulic ram connected to a manual hydraulic pump having a lever.

28. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 27, wherein the lever is in the form of a foot lever, operable to lift the lifting arms.

29. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of claims 25 to 28, wherein the actuator includes a release valve, operable to lower the lifting arms.

30. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the jacking means is scissor-action jacking means, and serves to elevate the storage container from the wheel arrangement when removed from the vehicle.

31. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the wheel arrangement includes a plurality of wheels mounted on a base of the storage container.

32. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of claims 1 to 31 , wherein the wheel arrangement includes an undercarriage having a plurality of wheels.

33. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 32, wherein the jacking means vertically displaces the storage container on the undercarriage.

34. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the jacking means is in the form of any one of a hydraulic jack, a pneumatic jack, or an electrical actuator.

35. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of claims 1 to 29, wherein the jacking means is in the form of a gas spring.

36. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of claims 32 to 35, wherein the jacking means is integral with the undercarriage and storage container for lifting and lowering the storage container.

37. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cargo carrier includes an actuator for actuating the jacking means to lift and/or lower the storage container.

38. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 37, wherein the actuator is in the form of a hand lever, foot lever or the like.

39. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of claims 1 to 29, wherein the jacking means is in the form of a piston disposed between the undercarriage and the storage container.

40. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 39, wherein the foot lever is in the form of a positive displacement pump connected to the piston.

41. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 39 or claim 40, wherein the cargo carrier includes a control button located on the storage container, the control button being connected to a release valve operable to release pressure from the piston.

42. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 39 or 40, wherein the piston is in the form of a double acting cylinder and the control button is in the form of a two-way selector switch, selectively to direct pressure generated by the foot lever to opposed sides of the double acting cylinder, for selectively lifting or lowering the storage container.

43. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of claims 1 to 29, wherein the jacking means is in the form of a gas lift, and includes an actuator in the form of a foot lever.

44. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 43, wherein the foot lever is operable to selectively pump gas into the gas lift or release gas, thereby respectively lifting and lowering the storage container.

45. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cargo carrier includes air shocks installed between the storage container and the wheel arrangement.

46. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the storage container include a number plate holder.

47. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 46, wherein the number plate holder is located on an operably rear side of the storage container, such that in use the number plate is visible from the rear of a vehicle, the number plate holder being operable to slidably receive a number plate.

48. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the storage container includes one or more accessories selected from the group consisting of: tool battery chargers, sound system, speakers, display screen, radio, first aid kit, survival kit, spare parts kit, food preparation kit, food storage compartment and the like.

49. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 48, wherein the display screen is in the form of any one of an LCD, LED, and touch screen.

50. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 49, wherein the display screen is in communication with an entertainment system of the vehicle to which it is connected.

51. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 50, wherein the display screen is in communication with a mobile device paired with the cargo carrier.

52. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of claims 48 to 51 , wherein the food preparation kit includes a chopping board, the chopping board being integrated with the lid of the container.

53. The mobile cargo carrier of any one or the preceding claims, wherein the storage container includes an accessory in the form of a cooling compartment in the form of any one of a fridge, freezer, cool box, or ice box.

54. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the storage container includes one or more connection ports selected form the group consisting of: an RCA connection port, a USB port, and an AUX port.

55. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the storage container is provided with communication means in the form of any one or both of a wireless transmitter and receiver, including communication means in the form of any one or both of a Bluetooth transmitter and receiver, or in the form of any one or both of a radio transmitter and radio receiver, the radio receiver being in the form of a radio aerial.

56. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the storage container further includes any one or more of brake lights, at least one reverse light and directional indicator lights, operable to be connected by a multi-pole electrical connector to a vehicle, the brake lights, at least one reverse light and directional indicator lights serving as repeater lights for alerting other road users of the actions of the vehicle to which the storage container is fitted.

57. The mobile cargo carrier of any of the preceding claims, wherein the storage container contains an integral braking light in association with a lid of the container, such that the braking light serves as an elevated braking light to alert following road users that the vehicle to which the storage container is fitted is braking.

58. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 57, wherein the braking light is movable between a recessed position, in which it is recessed within a suitably dimensioned recess within the lid of the storage container, and a prone position, in which it is swivelled out of the recess into an operably upright position in which it is visible to other road users.

59. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the storage container includes a lid for accessing the interior of the storage container, the lid including an inner surface coated with a reflective substance, such that, when a vehicle to which the storage container is stationary next to a road, opening the lid would serve as a warning to other vehicles that the vehicle is stationary.

60. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of the previous claims, wherein the storage container includes power input means connected to any one or more accessories to power the accessories, the power input being in the form of a plug that is connectable to a motor vehicle's auxiliary power socket, or to a DIN 4165 connector.

61 . The mobile cargo carrier of any one of the previous claims, wherein the storage container includes an internal power supply in the form of a battery.

62. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 60, wherein the power input means includes a power generator for any one of powering the accessories and charging the battery.

63. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 62, wherein the power generator is in the form of a solar pane or turbine.

64. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 63, wherein the turbine is a wind turbine which is movable between a stowed condition, in which it is retracted onto the lid, and a deployed condition, in which it stands proud of the lid such that, in use, when the turbine is in a deployed condition, the turbine is rotated while the vehicle on which the mobile cargo carrier is mounted is moving, and/or the turbine may be rotated by wind.

65. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of claims 59 to 64, wherein the lid includes a locking mechanism for securing the contents of the storage container, the locking mechanism being in the form of a key lock which is remotely operable such that the storage container may be locked or unlocked with a remote control or fob.

66. The mobile cargo carrier of any of the preceding claims wherein the storage container includes one or more inner containers, including one or more removable utility boxes that fit inside the storage container.

67. The mobile cargo carrier of claim 66, wherein the one or more inner containers includes a sorted tray assembly installed in an upper portion of the storage container, in the form of cantilever storage trays.

68. The mobile cargo carrier of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the storage container includes a decorative zone on an outer surface thereof, the decorative zone including patterns, colours, logos motives, symbols, images, camouflage patterns, or advertisements.

Description:
A MOBILE CARGO CARRIER

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

THIS INVENTION relates to cargo and luggage carriers of vehicles. In particular the invention relates to a mobile cargo carrier that is attachable to a rear of a vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Most vehicles have limited storage space for luggage and other cargo. Many devices have been designed to overcome this shortage, such as trailers, roof rack storage containers and the like. Similarly, a trailer can be towed behind a vehicle and although it provides ample additional storage space, it has a few drawbacks. A first drawback is that it is cumbersome to attach and detach the trailer from the vehicle every time the trailer is used. Further disadvantages of towing a trailer behind a vehicle are that the trailer will increase the fuel consumption of the vehicle and make it hard to manoeuvre the vehicle.

The inventor is aware of vehicle hitch carriers that attach to a vehicle trailer hitch and can be suspended above the ground from the back of the vehicle. The problem with these types of carriers is that they have to be carried to and from the vehicle, or have to be packed and unpacked every time a user would like to use the carrier. The inventor has identified a need for a new mobile cargo carrier, which improves the transport of excess cargo.

SUM MARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with one aspect of the invention, there is provided a mobile cargo carrier for mounting onto the rear of a vehicle, the mobile cargo carrier including:

a storage container having a wheel arrangement;

suspension means for removably connecting the storage container to a rear of a vehicle, the suspension means operable to suspend the storage container from the rear of the vehicle above the road surface; and jacking means for vertically displacing the storage container relative to the wheel arrangement.

In one embodiment the suspension means may be integral with the storage container. In another embodiment the suspension means may be in the form of a mounting bracket having a vehicle connection formation and a storage container connection formation.

The vehicle connection formation may be in the form of a vehicle hitch connection formation, for connecting to a vehicle tow hitch. Alternatively, the vehicle connection formation may be in the form of a shank, for connecting to a standard hitch receiver of a vehicle.

In one embodiment the mounting bracket may include a vehicle hitch connection formation and a storage container connection formation, removably connectable to one another, such that the mounting bracket can be dissembled into two separate parts. In such embodiment the vehicle hitch connection formation and storage container connection formation may be attached or attachable to one another with one or more pin bolts.

The vehicle hitch connection formation may include an upwardly angled connector for connecting to the storage container connection formation. Preferably, the angle may be about 45° relative to the horizontal, thereby to provide the storage container with a high road clearance when mounted on the vehicle.

The storage container connection formation may be shaped and dimensioned to removably connect to a complementary connection formation on the storage container.

The complementary connection formation may be in the form of one or more locking bars. In this embodiment, the complementary connection formation may be in the form of horizontal locking bars vertically spaced from each other on one side of the storage container. The one or more of the locking bars may be movable from an in-use position, in which the locking bars extend from the storage container, and a stowed condition, in which the locking bars are folded onto the storage container.

The storage container connection formation may be in the form of one or more hooks. In one embodiment the storage container connection formation may be in the form of at least two hooks vertically spaced from one another. In one embodiment the at least two hooks may be movable towards and away from one another, to engage and disengage the complementary connection formation on the storage container.

In another embodiment at least one of the hooks is pivotably displaceable in an operatively vertical direction, to engage and disengage the complementary connection formation on the storage container.

Alternatively, the storage container connection formation may be in the form of a mounting plate, onto which the storage container is mountable. In such embodiment, the storage container may include a complementary connection formation in the form of a lifting recess shaped and dimensioned to receive the mounting plate. In use the mounting plate may key into the lifting recess and self-lock onto the storage container.

The mounting bracket may also include a jacking mechanism for moving the storage container between a suspended position, in which the storage container is suspended above the road surface, and a standing position, in which the storage container stands on the road surface.

The jacking mechanism may be in the form of any one of a scissor jack, hydraulic jack and the like provided between the vehicle connection formation and storage container connection formation. In a preferred embodiment the jacking mechanism may be in the form of a hydraulic bottle jack. Particularly, the jacking mechanism may include a back plate attached to the vehicle connection formation. The jacking mechanism may further include one or more lifting arms hingedly connected at one end to the back plate and hingedly connected at an opposed end to the storage container connection formation. An actuator may be provided between the backing plate and one or more lifting arms, in use, for moving the lifting arms up or down. The actuator may be in the form of any one of a hydraulic-, electric-, or manually-driven mechanism, or the like. In one embodiment the actuator may be in the form of an hydraulic ram connected to a manual hydraulic pump having a lever. The lever may be in the form of a foot lever, operable to lift the lifting arms. The actuator may include a release valve, operable to lower the lifting arms.

As mentioned hereinbefore, the cargo carrier also includes jacking means for vertically displacing the storage container relative to the wheel arrangement. The jacking means may be scissor-action jacking means, and may serve to elevate the storage container from the wheel arrangement when the cargo carrier is to be removed from the vehicle.

The wheel arrangement may include a plurality of wheels mounted on a base of the storage container.

Alternatively the wheel arrangement may include an undercarriage having a plurality of wheels. In such embodiment, the jacking means may vertically displace the storage container on the undercarriage. The jacking means may be in the form of any one of a hydraulic jack, a pneumatic jack, or an electrical actuator. In one embodiment the jacking means may be in the form of a scissor action lift. In another embodiment the jacking means may be in the form of a gas spring. The jacking means may be integral with the undercarriage and storage container for lifting and lowering the storage container. The cargo carrier may include an actuator for actuating the jacking means to lift and/or lower the storage container. The actuator may be in the form of a hand lever, foot lever or the like.

In another embodiment the jacking means may be in the form of a piston disposed between the undercarriage and the storage container. In such embodiment the foot lever may be in the form of a positive displacement pump connected to the piston. The cargo carrier may include a control button located on the storage container. The control button may be connected to a release valve operable to release pressure from the piston. Alternatively the piston may be in the form of a double acting cylinder and the control button may be in the form of a two-way selector switch, selectively to direct pressure generated by the foot lever to opposed sides of the double acting cylinder, for selectively lifting or lowering the storage container. In one embodiment the jacking means may be in the form of a gas lift, and includes an actuator in the form of a foot lever. The foot lever may be operable to selectively pump gas into the gas lift or release gas, thereby respectively lifting and lowering the storage container.

The cargo carrier may include air shocks installed between the storage container and the wheel arrangement. The storage container may include a number plate holder. The number plate holder may be located on an operably rear side of the storage container, such that in use the number plate would be visible from the rear of a vehicle. The number plate holder may be operable to slidably receive a number plate.

The storage container may include one or more accessories. The accessories may be selected from the group consisting of: tool battery chargers, sound system, speakers, display screen, radio, first aid kit, survival kit, spare parts kit, food preparation kit, food storage compartment and the like.

The display screen may be in the form of any one of an LCD, LED, or touch screen. The display screen may be in communication with an entertainment system of the vehicle to which it is connected, or may be in communication with a mobile device paired with the cargo carrier. The food preparation kit may include a chopping board. The chopping board may be integrated with the lid of the container. The food preparation kit may include any of cutlery, crockery, plastic bag holders and the like.

The storage container may include an accessory in the form of a cooling compartment. The cooling compartment may be in the form of any one of a fridge, freezer, cool box, ice box and the like.

The storage container may include one or more connection ports. The connection ports may be selected form the group including: RCA connection port, USB port, AUX port and the like. The storage container may be provided with communication means. The communication means may be in the form of any one or both of a wireless transmitter and receiver. The communication means may be in the form of any one or both of a Bluetooth transmitter and receiver. In another embodiment the communication means may be in the form of any one or both of a radio transmitter and radio receiver. The radio receiver may be in the form of a radio aerial. The storage container may further include any one or more of brake lights, at least one reverse light and directional indicator lights, operable to be connected by a multi-pole electrical connector to a vehicle. As such, the brake lights, at least one reverse light and directional indicator lights may serve as repeater lights for alerting other road users of the actions of the vehicle to which the storage container is fitted.

In one embodiment, the storage container may contain an integral braking light in association with a lid of the container, such that the braking light serves as an elevated braking light to alert following road users that the vehicle to which the storage container is fitted is braking. In this embodiment, the braking light may be movable between a recessed position, in which it is recessed within a suitably dimensioned recess within the lid of the storage container, and a prone position, in which it is swivelled out of the recess into an operably upright position in which it is visible to other road users.

The wheels may be in the form of inflatable wheels. Furthermore, the wheels may be in the form of swivel wheels. The wheels may each include a braking mechanism which may be activated by a user of the storage container. The braking mechanism may be activated when fitting the storage container to a vehicle, to prevent the wheels from spinning while the vehicle is in motion. Similarly, the brakes may function to limit movement of the storage container when it has been removed from the vehicle and is positioned on the ground.

As mentioned hereinbefore, the storage container may include a lid, for accessing the interior of the storage container. The lid may be in the form of a hinged lid. The lid may include an inner surface coated with a reflective substance, such that, when a vehicle to which the storage container is stationary next to a road, opening the lid would serve as a warning to other vehicles that the vehicle is stationary.

The storage container may include power input means connected to any one or more accessories to power the accessories. In one embodiment, the power input means may be in the form of a plug that is connectable to a motor vehicle's auxiliary power socket, to a DIN 4165 connector, or the like. In another embodiment storage container may include an internal power supply such as a battery of electrochemical cells. The battery may be rechargeable. The power input means may include a power generator for any one of powering the accessories and charging the battery. The power generator may be in the form of any one or more of a solar panel, turbine or the like. The power generator may be connected to the battery, in use, to charge the battery. The solar panel may be provided on the lid of the storage container. Particularly, the solar panel may be incorporated in the lid of the storage container. The turbine may be in the form of a wind turbine. The turbine may be provided on the lid of the storage container. The turbine may be movable between a stowed condition, in which it is retracted onto the lid and a deployed condition, in which it stands proud of the lid. In use, when the turbine is in a deployed condition, the turbine may be rotated while the vehicle on which the mobile cargo carrier is mounted is moving, alternatively the turbine may be rotated by wind.

The lid may include a locking mechanism for securing the contents of the storage container. The locking mechanism may be in the form of a key lock. The key lock may be a remotely operable key lock, such that the storage container may be locked or unlocked with a remote control or fob.

The storage container may include one or more inner containers installed within the storage container. The one or more inner containers may include a removable utility box that fits inside the storage container. The utility box may be of a plastic material. The utility box may be removed from the storage container and be cleaned separately. The one or more inner containers may include a sorted tray assembly installed in an upper portion of the storage container. The sorted tray assembly may be in the form of cantilever storage trays. The storage container may include inner containers designed for a specific use, such as for motor cross, rally car racing, back packers, camping, military use, specific sports, fishing, a specific trade and the like.

The storage container designed for military use may include any of weapon holders, ammunition holders and the like.

The storage container may include one or more handles, for allowing a user to push or pull the storage container to a desired location, when the storage container is detached from the vehicle. Any one or more of the wheels, handles and connection formations of the storage container may be foldable or retractable onto the storage container, so that the storage container is compact for storage.

The storage container may include a decorative zone on an outer surface of the storage container. The decorative zone may include patterns, colours, logos motives, symbols, images and the like. In one embodiment, the decorative zone may include camouflage patterns. The decorative zone may include advertisements.

The invention will now be described, by way of example only with reference to the following drawing(s):

DRAWING(S)

In the drawing(s):

Figure 1 shows a side view of a mobile cargo carrier, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention, being towed by a vehicle;

Figure 2 shows a front view of the cargo carrier, unhitched from the vehicle and being moved by a user;

Figure 3 shows a rear view of the cargo carrier;

Figure 4 shows a three-dimensional view of the cargo carrier;

Figure 5 shows an exploded view of the cargo carrier;

Figure 6 shows a three dimensional view of a mobile cargo carrier in accordance with another embodiment of the invention;

Figure 7 shows a side view of a mobile cargo carrier in accordance with yet a further embodiment of the invention;

Figure 8 shows a side view of a mobile cargo carrier in another embodiment of the invention;

Figure 9 shows the mobile cargo carrier of Figure 8, in use, in a suspended position;

Figure 10 shows a side view of a mounting bracket in accordance with one embodiment of the invention, movable between a suspended position and a standing position (as shown in dashed lines).

Figure 1 1 shows a rear view of the mounting bracket of Figure 10. In the drawings, like reference numerals denote like parts of the invention unless otherwise indicated.

EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

In Figures 1 to 5 reference numeral 10 refers to a mobile cargo carrier for mounting onto the rear of a vehicle in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. The cargo carrier 10 includes a storage container 12 having a wheel arrangement 14 and suspension means 16 for removably connecting the storage container 12 to a vehicle hitch 50, the suspension means 16 is operable to suspend the storage container 12 from the hitch 50 above the road surface 52.

As shown in the exploded view of Figure 5, the suspension means is in the form of a mounting bracket 16 having a vehicle hitch connection formation 18 and a storage container connection formation 20. The storage container connection formation 20 is shaped and dimensioned to removably connect to a complementary connection formation of the storage container 12. In this example the complementary connection formation is in the form of two horizontal locking bars 22, vertically spaced from each other on a front side of the storage container. The locking bars 22 are movable from an in use position, in which the locking bars 22 extend from the storage container 12, and a stowed condition, in which the locking bars 22 are folded onto the storage container 12 (not shown).

The storage container connection formation is in the form of two sets of hooks 20.1 , 20.2 vertically spaced from each other. An upper set of hooks 20.1 are directed upwardly, and a lower set of hooks 20.2 are directed downwardly. In this example the lower set of hooks 20.2 include pivot joints where they are connected to a main body of the mounting bracket 16 and are pivotably displaceable in an operatively vertical direction. In use, the lower set of hooks 20.2 are moved downwardly to engage the horizontal locking bar 22 and are moved upwardly to disengage the horizontal locking bar 22. The lower set of hooks 20.2 include locking means for locking the hooks 20.2 in a position and preventing the hooks from pivoting.

In use, the mounting bracket 16 will be mounted on a vehicle hitch via the vehicle hitch connection formation 18. To attach the storage container 12 to the mounting bracket 16, a user will lift an upper locking bar 22, over and into the upper set of hooks 20.2 and pivot the lower set of hooks 20.2 upwardly and over a lower locking bar 22, and then pivot the lower set of hooks 20.2 downwardly to secure the storage container 12 on the mounting bracket 16. The lower set of hooks 20.2 are then locked to ensure that the storage container 12 is securely attached to the mounting bracket 16.

As best shown in Figure 2, the cargo carrier 10 includes jacking means 24 for vertically displacing the storage container 12 on the wheel arrangement 14. In this example the wheel arrangement 14 is in the form of an undercarriage 14.1 having four wheels 14.2. The jacking means 24 is operable to vertically displace the storage container 12 relative to the undercarriage 14.1.

The jacking means 24 is in the form of a piston disposed between the undercarriage 14.1 and the storage container 12. The jacking means 24 is operable to lift or lower the storage container 12.

The cargo carrier 10 includes an actuator for actuating the jacking means 24 to lift and lower the storage container 12. In this example the actuator is in the form of a foot lever 26, which can be used to raise or lower the storage container 12 to the desired height. Specifically the foot lever 26 is in the form of a positive displacement pump connected to the piston.

The cargo carrier 10 includes a control button 36 located on the storage container 12. The control button 36 is connected to a release valve operable to release pressure from the piston.

It is to be appreciated, that in another embodiment of this invention the control button may be in the form of a positive displacement pump and the foot lever may be connected to a release valve.

The cargo carrier 10 includes air shocks 28 installed between the storage container 12 and the wheel arrangement 14. As shown in Figure 3, the storage container 12 includes a number plate holder 30. The number plate holder 30 is located on an operably rear side of the storage container 12, such that in use the number plate is visible from the rear of a vehicle. The number plate holder 30 is operable to slidably receive the number plate. The storage container 12 further include a set of lights 32, consisting of brake lights, reverse light and directional indicator lights, operable to be connected by a multi-pole electrical connector to a vehicle.

The wheels 14 are in the form of air inflatable wheels, so as to allow easy movement of the storage container 12 on rough terrain. The wheels 14 are in the form of swivel wheels, allowing the storage contained to be manoeuvred around corners.

The storage container 12 includes a hinged lid 12.1 , for accessing the interior of the storage container 12. The lid includes a key lock for securing the contents of the storage container 12. Although not shown, the storage container 12 includes a plurality of inner containers installed within the storage container 12. Specifically the storage container 12 includes a plastic removable utility box that fits inside the storage container 12, which is easily removable and can be cleaned separately. The storage container 12 further includes a sorted tray assembly installed in an upper portion of the storage container 12 above the utility box and directly below a lid of the storage container 12. The sorted tray assembly is in the form of cantilever storage trays. The storage container includes inner containers designed for a specific use, such as for motor cross, rally car racing, back packers, camping, specific sports, fishing, a specific trade and the like.

The storage container 12, includes handles 34 on opposing sides of the storage container 12, for allowing a user to push or pull the storage container 12 when it is detached from the vehicle.

The wheels 14.2, handles 34 and connection formations 22 of the storage container are foldable onto the storage container 12, so that the storage container is compact for storage.

In use, a user may connect the mounting bracket 16 to a vehicle tow hitch. When the user want to transport the contents of the storage container 12, the storage container 12 is connected to the mounting bracket 16 thereby suspending the storage container 12 from the hitch above the road surface 52. The vehicle is then driven to the required destination. At the destination, the user detaches the storage container 12 from the mounting bracket 16 and places the storage container on the road surface. The storage container 12 is then moved around on it's wheels to where it is required. Preferably a user will have different self-contained storage containers, each for a specific use, which the user can attach to the mounting bracket interchangeably.

In Figure 6 reference numeral 100 refers to a mobile cargo carrier in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention. In this example the mounting bracket 16 includes a vehicle hitch connection formation 18 and a storage container connection formation 20, removably connectable to each other, such that the mounting bracket 16 can be dissembled into two separate parts. The vehicle hitch connection formation 18 and storage container connection formation 20 are attached to each other with two pin bolts.

The vehicle hitch connection formation 18 includes an upwardly angled connector for connecting to the storage container connection formation 20. In this example the angle is 45° to provide the storage container 12 with a high road clearance when mounted on the vehicle.

In this example the jacking means is in the form of a gas lift, and includes an actuator in the form of a foot lever (not shown). The foot lever is operable to selectively pump gas into the gas lift or release gas, thereby respectively lifting and lowering the storage container 12.

In this example the storage container 12 include an accessory in the form of a cooling compartment (not shown). The cooling compartment is in be the form of a cool box.

The storage container includes power input means in the form of an internal power supply, the internal power supply being connected to cool box to power the cool box. In this example the internal power supply is in the form of a battery of electrochemical cells. The battery is rechargeable. The power input means also includes a power generator for charging the battery. In this example the storage container includes two power generators in the form of a solar panel 102 and a turbine 104. The power generators 102, 104 are connected to the battery, in use, to charge the battery.

As shown, the solar panel 102 is provided on the lid 12.1 of the storage container 12. Particularly, the solar panel 102 is incorporated in the lid 12.1 of the storage container 12.

The turbine 104 is in the form of a wind turbine. The turbine 104 is also provided on the lid 12.1 of the storage container 12. The turbine 104 is movable between a stowed condition, in which it is retracted onto the lid 12.1 and a deployed condition, in which it stands proud of the lid 12.1. In use, when the turbine 104 is in a deployed condition, the turbine is rotated while the vehicle on which the mobile cargo carrier 100 is mounted is moving, alternatively the turbine 104 is rotated by wind.

In Figure 7 reference numeral 200 refers to a mobile cargo carrier in accordance with yet a further embodiment of the invention. In this example the jacking means is in the form of a scissor action lift 202.

In Figures 8 and 9, reference numeral 200 refers to a mobile cargo carrier in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention. In this example the suspension means is in the form of a mounting bracket 16 having a vehicle connection formation 18 and a storage container connection formation 20.

The vehicle connection formation 18 is in the form of a shank, for connecting to a standard hitch receiver of a vehicle. In this example the shank is in the form of a square-shaped shank, in use, which keys into a standard vehicle tow bar hitch receiver, and allows easy demount of the mounting bracket from the vehicle.

The storage container connection formation 20, is in the form of a mounting plate. The storage container 12 includes a complementary connection formation in the form of a lifting recess shaped and dimensioned to receive the mounting plate. In use the mounting plate keys into the lifting recess and self locks to the storage container.

The mounting bracket 16 includes a jacking mechanism 202 for moving the storage container 12 between a suspended position, in which the storage container 12 is suspended above the road surface (as shown in Figure 9), and a standing position, in which the storage container 12 stands on the road surface (as shown in Figure 8).

Figure 10 and 1 1 shows a detailed view of a mounting bracket in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. In this example the mounting bracket 16 includes a jacking mechanism 202 for moving the storage container 12 (not shown) between a suspended position, in which the storage container 12 is suspended above the road surface, and a standing position, in which the storage container 12 (not shown) stands on the road surface (as shown in dashed lines).

In this example the jacking mechanism may include a back plate 202.1 attached to the vehicle connection formation 18. The jacking mechanism further includes two lifting arms 202.2 hingedly connected on one of their ends to the back plate 202.1 and hingedly connected on an opposed end to the storage container connection formation 20. An actuator 202.3 is provided between the backing plate 202.1 and an upper lifting arm 202.2, in use, for moving the lifting arms 202.2 up or down. In this embodiment the actuator 202.3 is in the form of an hydraulic ram 202.3.1 connected to a manual hydraulic pump 202.3.2 having a lever 202.3.3. The lever 202.3.3 is in the form of a foot lever, operable to lift the lifting arms 202.2. The actuator 202.3 also includes a release valve (not shown), operable to lower the lifting arms 202.2.

The inventor believes that the invention provides a new mobile cargo carrier, which allows for easy transport of excess cargo and ancillaries, as well as easy fitment or removal from a vehicle.