BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Technical Field of the Invention This invention relates to manual carriers, and more particularly, to a pull-type carrier for smoothly transporting articles across a variety of outdoor surfaces such as concrete, asphalt, grass, sand, or snow.

2. Description of Related Art

Pull-type carrier apparatuses having two or more wheels are well known, such carriers being useful for example, for carrying picnic items, beach supplies, sporting equipment, groceries, firewood, or the like from one location to another. Carriers of this type are generally constructed to include a flat bottom container with a pair of wheels mounted on the back and a handle attached to the front for lifting or pulling the device.

Carrying apparatuses having a pair of rear wheels and a front handle have been disclosed, for example, in United States Patent Nos. 4,550,931; 5,106,109; 5,163,694; and 5,215,318. Each of these references is discussed briefly below.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,550,931 to Ziaylek, Jr., relates to a wheeled container for use by fire-fighting and rescue squads. Specifically, the container comprises a rectangular receptacle, a pair of ground wheels, a pair of elongated support skids, and a retractable handle. U.S. Pat. No. 5,106,109 to Tattersall et al relates to a convertible cart apparatus. Tattersall discloses a plurality of retractable rollers and skids for selective movement across various surfaces such as water, sand or snow. The Tattersall apparatus, however, requires the user to manually adjust the relationship of the bottom rollers with respect to the projecting spaced skids.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,163,694 to Reichek relates to a buoyant fishing tackle support having a flat bed body with a pair of rear wheels and a tow rope. U.S. Pat. No. 5,215,318 to Capraro discloses a body trailer having a curved housing with a pair of rear wheels mounted on one end and a towing mechanism mounted on the opposite end.

Each of the above referenced carriers include a standard pair of wheels or rollers attached to the carrier housing. Wheel assemblies suitable for use on these carriers are disclosed, for example in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,174,633; 5,222,786; and 5,277,480.

Notwithstanding the carriers and wheel assemblies previously disclosed, there remains a need for a multi- terrain free-wheeling apparatus adapted for ease of hand maneuverability across multiple surface types to facilitate transportation of articles between locations without requiring manual adjustment between the rolling and skidding mechanisms. In addition, there remains a need for an inexpensive, non-corrosive, small particle resistant axle-bearing assembly for use on such multi- terrain carriers that is easy to manufacture and simple to maintain.

Review of each of the foregoing references reveals no disclosure or suggestion of an apparatus such as that described and claimed herein. It would be a distinct advantage to have a multiple surface free-wheeling apparatus which is easy to maneuver across hard and soft surfaces such as cement, sand or snow which is simpler than the prior art to both manufacture and use. In addition, a multi-terrain carrier which is simpler than the prior art would have a distinct economic advantage as it would be easier to assemble, and less expensive to manufacture and sell.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to the present invention, a free-wheeling multi-terrain carrier apparatus is provided capable of being hand maneuvered over a variety of hard and soft surfaces such as cement, gravel, sand, or snow. The subject carrier comprises a carrier body and a wheel assembly connected as a fixed unitary structure. The carrier body further comprises an arched bottom having a raised u-shaped sliding surface around its perimeter, and a pair of rear mounted wheels. The wheel assembly further comprises an axle fixably mounted on the carrier body, an annular bearing and a wheel.

In one embodiment of the invention, the carrier body is shaped like the hull of a conventional row boat. In another embodiment of the invention, the bottom interior surface of the carrier body is concave and the bottom exterior surface is convex to form an arched bottom. In another embodiment of the invention, the perimeter u- shaped sliding surface extends beyond the bottom exterior surface such that the exterior bottom surface does not contact the supporting surface or ground.

In still another embodiment of the invention, the rear wheels and the front end of the carrier body ride above the ground's surface when the apparatus is towed or pulled in a substantially horizontal position. In another aspect of the present invention, a pulling mechanism is provided. In another aspect of the present invention, the pulling mechanism is a rope.

In another aspect of the present invention, the wheel assembly is integral with the carrier body. In another aspect of the present invention, the wheel assembly is mounted in recessed wells. In still another aspect of the present invention, a front handle is provided for lifting and towing the apparatus on its rear wheels such that the

arched bottom and u-shaped rail ride clear above the supporting surface or ground.

In another aspect of the present invention, the carrier body has a plurality of tiers for additional strength. In another aspect, the carrier body includes a rolled rim along the perimeter of the upper edge for additional strength. In still another aspect the rolled edge facilitates secure attachment of optional devices such as ropes, nets, or expansible cords. In another aspect of the invention, the carrier body includes drainage holes.

In another embodiment of the invention, the carrier apparatus includes a wheel assembly comprising a wheel with an annular bearing in interlocking engagement with an axle spindle integral with the body of the carrier. The wheel assembly provided is a non-corrosive, small particle resistant wheel axle-bearing assembly having reliable free wheeling capabilities over multiple surfaces and outdoor terrains. In one aspect of the present invention, the outer surface of the axle and the inner surface of the bearing sleeve include a plurality of longitudinal interlocking channels and ribs which prevent rotation or slippage between the axle and bearing. In another aspect of the present invention, the annular bearing has an inward end and an outward end. The inward end includes a plurality of resilient locking projections for locking engagement within a plurality of corresponding slots in the body of the free wheeling device. The outward end of the bearing includes a flange which provides a thrust surface.

In another aspect of the present invention, the thrust flange provides a barrier to small particle contamination of the wheel axle-bearing assembly. In yet another aspect of the present invention, the bearing

flange includes a central screw for additional strength and thrust.

In still another aspect of the present invention, the wheel has an exterior surface including a surface inwardly facing the body of the free wheeling device and an outwardly facing surface on the opposite side of the wheel. The outwardly facing exterior surface includes a counterbore for receiving the bearing flange. In another aspect of the present invention, the inwardly facing exterior surface includes an angled spacer for decreasing frictional drag between the wheel and the body of the free wheeling apparatus. In addition, the angled spacer on the wheel provides increased stability and support to the carrier apparatus. In another aspect of the present invention, the carrier body and wheel axle-bearing assembly are constructed of a plastic resin. In still another aspect of the present invention, the carrier body and wheel axle- bearing assembly are constructed of a polymer material. In another aspect of the present invention, the polymer is polypropylene. In yet another aspect, the polymer is a high density polyethylene (HDPE) material. In still another aspect of the present invention, the preferred HDPE comprises a 12 melt index. In yet another aspect of the present invention, the wheels are constructed of an HDPE material having a fractional melt index. In still another aspect of the present invention, the HDPE material is UV stable.

In another aspect of the present invention, the bearing sleeve and wheel bearing surfaces are constructed of different materials for wear and friction reduction. In yet another aspect, the carrier and wheel assembly are constructed of the compound acetal.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be better understood and its numerous objects and advantages will become more apparent to those skilled in the art by reference to the following drawings, in conjunction with the accompanying specification, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 depicts a front elevation view of the apparatus of the invention as shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 depicts a rear elevation view of the apparatus of the invention as shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a detailed perspective view of an embodiment of the wheel axle-bearing assembly in accordance with the present invention shown partially in section;

FIG. 5 is an exploded detailed perspective view of the wheel axle-bearing assembly in accordance with the present invention shown partially in section; FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the outward facing flange end of the bearing of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the inward facing locking end of the bearing of the present inven ion;

FIG. 8 is a side elevation view of the bearing of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a plan view of the flange end of the bearing of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a plan view of the locking end of the bearing of the present invention; FIG. 11 is a lateral cross-sectional view of the bearing of the present invention taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 8;

FIG. 12 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the bearing of the present invention taken along line 12- 12 of FIG. 8;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional side elevation view of the wheel axle-bearing assembly mounted on the apparatus of the invention taken along line 13-13 of FIG. 1 in accordance with the teachings of the present invention; FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional side elevation view of the interior of the apparatus of the invention taken along line 14-14 of FIG. 1 in accordance with the teachings of the present invention; and

FIG. 15 is a bottom perspective view of one preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Like reference numerals are used to indicate like parts in all figures of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

The multi-terrain carrier apparatus of the present invention preferably comprises a receptacle body having an arched bottom for skidding across soft surfaces such as sand or snow and a pair of wheel assemblies for rolling across firm surfaces such as concrete or gravel . In its preferred embodiment, the free wheeling carrier apparatus includes a non-corrosive, interlocking wheel axle-bearing assembly resistant to small particle contamination, which does not disengage or slip during usage. In this embodiment, the carrier apparatus can be more reliably moved across multiple-terrains without fear of bearing contamination or slippage on rough surfaces. Constructed of materials such as plastic resins or polymers, the apparatus is resistant to corrosion, and easy to manufacture and assemble.

Referring to FIGs. 1, 2, 3, 14 and 15, the carrier apparatus 100 of the present invention in its preferred embodiment is shown having a container body 109 and two wheel assemblies 10. Container body 109 is preferably a standard row boat shape having a curved bottom 125, rear end 114, and first and second sides 127, 129 which curve to meet at front face 113, forming front end 112. Bottom 125, ends 112, 114, and sides 127, 129 are preferably unitarily molded to define an interior storage area 140 for holding portable items such as food, beverages, cameras, beach umbrellas, firewood, or the like.

In its preferred embodiment, bottom 125 includes interior surface 126, exterior surface 128 and U-shaped rail 130. Bottom 125 may further be sufficiently arched such that surface 126 is concave and surface 128 is convex. U-shaped rail 130 runs the length of sides 127, 129 and front 112, projecting beyond bottom 125 such that exterior surface 128 is suspended above the ground or

other supporting surface 200. Specifically, when apparatus 100 is held in a position substantially horizontal with the ground 200, as shown in FIG. 14, a central portion of arched rail 130 contacts ground 200 holding front end 112 and rear wheels 10 above the supporting surface. The curved shape of runner 130 and its raised height 133 beyond bottom surface 128 improves stability of apparatus 100 and helps reduce frictional drag between rail 130 and supporting surface 200 when towing apparatus 100 in the substantially horizontal position.

In addition, bottom 125 includes drainage holes 132 to prevent water from collecting in interior 140 of body 109 and to help prevent the improper use of apparatus 100 as a flotation device. As shown in FIG. 15, holes 132 are placed in rail 130. It will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art, however, that holes 132 may be placed in any location on rail 130, bottom 125 or body 109 which allows drainage from interior 140. As shown and described, apparatus 100 is constructed of a material such as plastic resins or polymers. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, material used is a high density polyethylene (HDPE) . UV stable, the HDPE used for the body of the apparatus is preferably within a 12 melt index and the HDPE used for the wheel 11 is within a fractional melt index. Preferably, post melt index and material specifications should be within twenty percent of the manufacturer approved specifications for a carrier device of sufficient strength and durability. It will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art that other polymers, resins, and hard plastics may be suitable for construction of the body and wheel assembly of the invention and still be within the parameters of the disclosed invention. Such materials include polypropylene and other moldable, formable or blown materials.

As shown in FIGs. 1, 2, 3, 14 and 15, body 100 further comprises a rim 116 constructed in its preferred embodiment by rolling the upper edge of body 100 and extending a portion of rim 116 beyond front end 112 to form handle 115. Rim 116 facilitates secure attachment of optional devices such as ropes, nets, or expansible chords (not shown) used to hold items within interior space 140. Tabs 117 are spaced along rim 116 for additional support to rim 116 and to prevent slippage of attached optional items such as coolers or other items using rim mounts.

Front end 112 includes supporting plate 118 shown having lip 120 and at least one hole 119 for attachment of a pulling mechanism such as a tow rope (not shown) . The apparatus may be selectively moved by skidding on rail 130 or rolling on wheels 10. Preferably, the carrier apparatus 100 is slidably moved across soft surfaces such as sand or snow by using the pulling mechanism attached to plate 118 to tow the body in a substantially horizontal position across supporting surface 200 on rail 130. Movement across hard surfaces such as concrete or gravel is most easily accomplished by lifting the front end 112 of the apparatus 100 by handle 115 and pulling it along on rear wheels 11. As the user encounters changing terrains, such as the asphalt of a parking lot and the sand on a beach, the user may easy switch from the rolling to the gliding position, and vice versa as needed without stopping to extend or retract wheels or attach removable skids .

It will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art that the arch or bow of rails 130 must be of sufficient curvature to slightly raise wheel assemblies 10 above supporting surface 200 when body 109 is in a substantially horizontal position.

Referring to FIGs. 1, 3, and 4, body 100 further comprises wheel wells 121 having recessed surfaces 122 in

sides 127, 129 disposed near rear end 114. Placement of wheels 10 in wells 121 at the rear of the apparatus 100 provide a more evenly dispersed load between the hull bottom and the wheels, provide improved stability and maneuverability, and assist transitional movement between a variety of surfaces such as curbs, stairs, concrete, tile, grass, sand, dirt and snow. It will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art that the overall configuration of the actual wheel well area is not pertinent to the practice of the invention and is provided by way of example and illustration only.

In another preferred embodiment of the invention, wheel assembly 10 includes a non-corrosive, small particle resistant axle-bearing assembly. Referring to FIGs. 4 and 5, wheel assembly 10 preferably includes wheel 11, axle spindle 22 and annular bearing 50. As shown in FIGs. 1, 4, and 13, wheel 11 of wheel assembly 10 comprises an inward facing surface 13, an outward facing surface 14, and a circumferential surface 15 including treads 16 defining optionally hollow interior 17.

As shown in FIG. 5, surfaces 13, 14, and 15 are centrally disposed around an axial centerline 18 of wheel assembly 10, defining a central wheel bore 12. Central bore 12 preferably includes a smooth inner cylindrical wheel bearing surface 19 radially positioned around the axial centerline 18. The outwardly facing surface 14 of wheel 11 preferably includes a counterbore 40 having a smooth ledge 42 and inner cylindrical flange bearing surface 44 radially positioned around axial centerline 18 at a radius greater than wheel bearing surface 19. Inwardly facing surface 13 of wheel 11 further comprises an angled spacer 20 radially positioned around axial centerline 18. Surfaces 13, 14 of wheel 11 optionally include a plurality of spokes or ribs 21 radially

extending from the bearing surface 19 for additional support and durability.

Referring to FIGs. 4, 5, and 13, axle spindle 22 having an axial centerline 18 preferably comprises a cylindrical outer surface 26, outward end 24, and inward end 23. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, axle 22 is integral with surface 122 of apparatus 100 such that axle 22 does not shift, move or rotate with respect to surface 122. It will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art that techniques to fixably attach axle 22 on surface 122 are dependant upon the materials used to construct both the free wheeling apparatus 100 and wheel axle-bearing assembly 10.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, where both the apparatus 100 and wheel assembly 10 are constructed of a synthetic resin or hard plastic, the axle 22 and mounting surface 122 may be unitarily molded, blown or cut from a single die. For additional strength, axle 22 may include raised reinforcement skirt 34 radially extending from inward end 23, integrally formed within surface 122 and parallel reinforcement gussets 68. As shown in FIG. 5, axle 22 further comprises a plurality of channels 30 in outer surface 26 longitudinally extending between outward end 24 and inward end 23. Arcuate slots 32 in surface 122 are circumferentially spaced around integral inward end 23 at the base of each channel 30.

Referring to FIGs. 6-12, annular bearing 50 having an axial centerline 18 preferably includes cylindrical bearing sleeve 49, outward bearing end 51 and inward bearing end 52. Bearing sleeve 49 includes smooth bearing surface 60 and inner sleeve surface 59. Inner sleeve surface 59 comprises a plurality of ribs 62 longitudinally extending the length of sleeve 49 from the outward end 51 to the inward end 52. Ribs 62 terminate at inward end 52 forming locking projections 63 having lateral faced edge

64 for engaging in slots 32. Bearing 50 further comprises thrust flange 53 at outward end 51. Flange 53 includes outer circumference 54, outer facing surface 55, and inner rim 56. When assembled, thrust flange 53 rotatably rests in annular recess 40 of wheel 11 such that inner rim 56 rotates against surface 42 and flange circumference surface 54 rotates against flange bearing surface 44.

As depicted in the figures of the drawings, flange 53 further comprises arcuate slots 66. These slots are optionally present for ease in manufacturing locking ribs 62 and locking projections 63 in bearing 50. It will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art that alternative means of manufacturing parts may be available which would not require the use of slots in flange 53.

As shown in FIGs. 4, 5, and 13, wheel assembly 10 optionally includes a screw 70 for additional thrust. In the preferred embodiment, the bearing flange 53 and axle spindle 22 include a recess 57 and retaining means 25 at outward end 24 for receiving and securing screw 70. The retaining means 25 may be unitarily molded with the axle 22 at outward end 24 and is preferably threaded to receive the thrust screw 70.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, wheel assemblies 10 and free wheeling device 100 are manufactured of non-corrosive materials. Suitable materials include a moldable resin or polymer such as DELRIN™, an acetal compound available from DuPont. In order to decrease bearing friction and increase durability, the inner bearing surface of the wheel and the outer bearing surface of the annular bearing should be constructed of different materials.

It will be understood and appreciated however, that various other materials of construction can be utilized. Regardless of the number of interlocking channels and ribs

chosen, best results are achieved when locking projections 63 are constructed of a resilient material which yields during assembly and disassembly.

As shown in FIGs. 4, 5, and 13, wheel 11, axle spindle 22, and bearing 50 are assembled along axial centerline 18 such that locking ribs 62 of inner sleeve 59 slidably engage and interlock with channels 30 of spindle 22 and bearing surface 60 of bearing 50 is rotatably encircled by wheel bore 12. Lateral shoulders 64 of locking projections 63 engage in circumferential retaining slots 32 such that inward ends 23, 52 are locked into position near wheel face 13 and outer ends 24, 51 are locked near wheel face 14.

The cooperative alignment of interlocking channels 30, ribs 62, locking projections 63 and retaining slots 32 reliably prevent rotation of bearing sleeve 60 relative to the axle spindle 22. In this preferred configuration, showing four interlocking channels 30, ribs 62 and locking projections 63, rotation will only occur between wheel bearing surface 19, bearing sleeve surface 60, recess surfaces 42, 44, and flange surfaces 54, 56. In addition, placement of flange 51 against end 24 of axle 22 will decrease the amount of small particles able to enter any space between cooperating bearing surfaces 19, 60. In an alternate embodiment of the present invention, wheel axle- bearing assembly 10 may include only one channel 30 and slot 32 for interlocking engagement with one rib 62 and locking projection 63.

It is thus believed that the operation and construction of the present invention will be apparent from the foregoing description. While the apparatus shown and described has been characterized as being preferred, it will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that various alterations and modifications could be made therein without departing from the spirit and

scope of the invention as defined in the following claims. It is therefore intended that the scope of the invention disclosed herein be limited only by the broadest interpretation of the appended claims to which the inventors are legally entitled.