TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] This disclosure relates to a trailer apparatus configured to couple to a truck, and more particularly, a modular roll-off trailer configured to convert a fifth wheel truck into a roll-off truck.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Trucks having a fifth wheel are used for transporting semi-trailers, large machinery, and other heavy cargo. A fifth wheel truck provides many advantages over alternative trailers such as efficient use of space, stable towing, better maneuverability, and heavier load capability.

[0003] A roll-off truck is another type of vehicle used for transporting cargo, albeit in a different manner from the fifth wheel truck. The roll-off truck has a flatbed configured to hold a container which can be both loaded and unloaded. Ways of loading and unloading a container include tilting the flatbed and using a hoist mechanism to pull and release the container.

[0004] Fifth wheel trucks and roll-off trucks are structurally different and are used for different purposes. However, it is common for a company to use both vehicles for their operations.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Technical Problem

[0005] Although fifth wheel trucks and roll-off trucks are used for different purposes, many companies use both for their operations. If one or both of the vehicles are used only periodically, then the company may be losing money by not utilizing each vehicle to its full capacity. For some companies, the roll-off truck is only used occasionally and therefore is wasting capital.

Solution to Problem

[0006] Generally, a trailer apparatus and trailer system are proposed which are configured to temporarily and easily convert a fifth wheel truck into a roll-off truck.

[0007] The trailer apparatus comprises a trailer chassis having a first proximal end, a first distal end opposite the first proximal end and a top surface, and a stationary frame coupled to the top surface. A rotatable frame having a second proximal end and a second distal end opposite the second proximal end is hingedly coupled to the trailer chassis by a hinge coupled to both the first distal end and the second distal end. A trailer axle extends through the trailer chassis and comprises one or more trailer wheels coupled therewith. A first coupler and a second coupler are each disposed on a first half of the rotatable frame and an attachment element is disposed on the first proximal end of the trailer chassis, wherein the attachment element is configured to couple to a hook element disposed on a truck.

[0008] The trailer system comprises a trailer apparatus coupled to a truck. The trailer apparatus comprises a trailer chassis having a first proximal end, a first distal end opposite the first proximal end and a top surface. A stationary frame is coupled to the top surface and a rotatable frame is hingedly coupled to the trailer chassis, the rotatable frame having a second proximal end and a second distal end opposite the second proximal end. A hinge is coupled to both the first distal end and the second distal end. The trailer apparatus further comprises a trailer axle extending through the trailer chassis, wherein the trailer axle comprises one or more trailer wheels coupled therewith. A first coupler and a second coupler are each disposed on a first half of the rotatable frame, and an attachment element is disposed on the first proximal end of the trailer chassis, wherein the attachment element is coupled to a hook element disposed on the truck. The truck comprises a front end, a rear end, and a truck chassis comprising a plurality of truck wheels. A first lifting cylinder is coupled to the truck chassis and further coupled to the first coupler, and a second lifting cylinder is coupled to the truck chassis and further coupled to the second coupler. Advantageous Effects of Invention

[0009] By allowing a fifth wheel truck to quickly and easily convert into a roll-off truck, money and capital would no longer need to be wasted to fund a conventional roll-off truck that is underutilized. The fifth wheel truck can be used for both transporting semi-trailers in addition to roll-off containers, thus maximizing usage of the fifth wheel truck.

[0010] The trailer apparatus is designed to be attached and detached from a truck in an efficient manner to allow for quick changeovers and less downtime.

[0011] Other features and benefits will be appreciated by one having skill in the art upon a thorough review of the instant disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Other features, combinations, and embodiments will be appreciated by one having the ordinary level of skill in the art of antennas and accessories upon a thorough review of the following details and descriptions, particularly when reviewed in conjunction with the drawings, wherein:

[0013] FIG.1 shows a perspective view of a trailer apparatus according to a first illustrated embodiment;

[0014] FIG.2 shows a side view of the trailer apparatus in an open state according to the first illustrated embodiment;

[0015] FIG.3 shows a side view of the trailer apparatus in a closed state according to the first illustrated embodiment;

[0016] FIG.4 shows a top view of the trailer apparatus according to the first illustrated embodiment;

[0017] FIG.5 shows a perspective view of a trailer system according to a second illustrated embodiment;

[0018] FIG.6 shows a side view of the trailer system in an open state according to the second illustrated embodiment;

[0019] FIG.7 shows another side view of the trailer system in a closed state according to the second illustrated embodiment;

[0020] FIG.8 shows a perspective view of a truck chassis; and

[0021] FIG.9 shows a close-up view of the trailer system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] For purposes of explanation and not limitation, details and descriptions of certain preferred embodiments are hereinafter provided such that one having ordinary skill in the art may be enabled to make and use the invention. These details and descriptions are representative only of certain preferred embodiments, however, a myriad of other embodiments which will not be expressly described will be readily understood by one having skill in the art upon a thorough review of the instant disclosure. Accordingly, any reviewer of the instant disclosure should interpret the scope of the invention only by the claims, as such scope is not intended to be limited by the embodiments described and illustrated herein. [0023] For purposes herein, reference numbers are provided in the drawings for illustrating certain features of embodiments. Where distinct figures of the drawings utilize a shared reference number, it can be appreciated that the feature corresponding to the shared reference number is the same or similar, perhaps observed from a different view, or observed with respect to a different embodiment deploying the same or similar feature.

[0024] For purposes herein, the term “truck” means a tractor unit designed to attach to a semi-trailer by a fifth wheel. Common alternative names include tractor unit, ten-wheeler, semitractor, tractor rig, truck rig, and big rig.

[0025] The term “chassis” means a base frame of a motor vehicle, trailer, or a portion thereof.

[0026] Unless explicitly defined herein, terms are to be construed in accordance with the plain and ordinary meaning as would be appreciated by one having skill in the art.

General Description of Embodiments

[0027] In one embodiment, a trailer apparatus is disclosed. The trailer apparatus comprises a trailer chassis having a first proximal end, a first distal end opposite the first proximal end and a top surface, and a stationary frame coupled to the top surface. A rotatable frame having a second proximal end and a second distal end opposite the second proximal end is hingedly coupled to the trailer chassis by a hinge coupled to both the first distal end and the second distal end. A trailer axle extends through the trailer chassis and comprises one or more trailer wheels coupled therewith. A first coupler and a second coupler are each disposed on a first half of the rotatable frame and an attachment element is disposed on the first proximal end of the trailer chassis, wherein the attachment element is configured to couple to a hook element disposed on a truck.

[0028] Generally, the rotatable frame may comprise a hoisting mechanism.

[0029] In some embodiments, the trailer chassis may further comprise one or more shock absorbers.

[0030] In some embodiments, the stationary frame may be configured to dispose within the rotatable frame when the trailer apparatus is in a closed state.

[0031] In some embodiments, the trailer axle and the one or more trailer wheels can be configured to elevate from a ground surface.

[0032] In some embodiments, the trailer apparatus may further comprise a landing gear coupled to the stationary frame, wherein the landing gear is configured to hold the stationary frame upright when the trailer apparatus is detached from the truck.

[0033] In some embodiments, the trailer chassis may further comprise a first mating surface disposed on the first proximal end, wherein the first mating surface comprises a concave curvature.

[0034] In another embodiment, a trailer system is disclosed. The trailer system comprises a trailer apparatus coupled to a truck. The trailer apparatus comprises a trailer chassis having a first proximal end, a first distal end opposite the first proximal end and a top surface. A stationary frame is coupled to the top surface and a rotatable frame is hingedly coupled to the trailer chassis, the rotatable frame having a second proximal end and a second distal end opposite the second proximal end. A hinge is coupled to both the first distal end and the second distal end The trailer apparatus further comprises a trailer axle extending through the trailer chassis, where the trailer axle comprises one or more trailer wheels coupled therewith. A first coupler and a second coupler are each disposed on a first half of the rotatable frame, and an attachment element is disposed on the first proximal end of the trailer chassis, wherein the attachment element is coupled to a hook element disposed on the truck. The truck comprises a front end, a rear end, and a truck chassis comprising a plurality of truck wheels. The truck chassis further comprises the hook element. A first lifting cylinder is coupled to the truck chassis and further coupled to the first coupler, and a second lifting cylinder is coupled to the truck chassis and further coupled to the second coupler.

[0035] In some embodiment, the trailer apparatus may further comprise a hoisting mechanism integrated with the rotatable frame.

[0036] In some embodiments, the trailer system may further comprise a hydraulic system. The hydraulic system may be coupled to each of the first and second lifting cylinders. The hydraulic system may be coupled to the hoisting mechanism.

[0037] In some embodiments, the first and second lifting cylinders may be coupled to the truck chassis between the rear end of the truck and the plurality of truck wheels.

[0038] In some embodiments, the first and second lifting cylinders may each comprise a plurality of telescopic cylinders.

[0039] In some embodiments, the trailer system may further comprise one or more support members disposed on the truck chassis wherein the one or more support members are configured to hold the first or second lifting cylinders while the trailer apparatus is detached from the truck.

[0040] In some embodiments, the trailer chassis may further comprise one or more shock absorbers.

[0041] In some embodiments, the stationary frame may be configured to dispose within the rotatable frame when the trailer apparatus is in a closed state.

[0042] In some embodiments, the trailer axle and the one or more trailer wheels can be configured to elevate from a ground surface.

[0043] In some embodiments, the trailer apparatus may further comprise a landing gear coupled to the stationary frame, wherein the landing gear is configured to hold the stationary frame upright when the trailer apparatus is detached from the truck.

[0044] In some embodiments, the trailer chassis may further comprise a first mating surface disposed on the first proximal end, wherein the first mating surface comprises a concave curvature.

[0045] Generally, components of the trailer system and truck attachment system are manufactured from metal such as steel, aluminum, or a combination of various metals and/or grades that will be appreciated by one having skill in the art. Factors such as lowering cost and weight while maintaining strength, durability, and safety are considerations in the design of the trailer system. Furthermore, various treatments and coatings may also be implemented.

[0046] While various details, features, combinations are described in the illustrated embodiments, one having skill in the art will appreciate a myriad of possible alternative combinations and arrangements of the features disclosed herein. As such, the descriptions are intended to be enabling only, and non-limiting. Instead, the spirit and scope of the invention is set forth in the appended claims.

First Illustrated Embodiment

[0047] Now turning to the drawings, FIG.1 shows a perspective view of a trailer apparatus (100) according to a first illustrated embodiment. The trailer apparatus comprises a trailer chassis (110) having a first proximal end (111) and a first distal end (112), a rotatable frame (120) having a second proximal end (121) and a second distal end (122), and a hinge (130) coupling the first distal end of the trailer to the second distal end of the rotatable frame. The trailer chassis further comprises a stationary fame (114) coupled to a top surface (113) thereof. A trailer axle (160) extends through the trailer chassis near the first distal end. At each end of the trailer axle are trailer wheels (161). In other embodiments, a single trailer wheel can be disposed at a center of the trailer axle. Mudflaps (170) are disposed adjacent to each of the trailer wheels. [0048] The rotatable frame (120) includes a first half (123) near the second proximal end (121) and a second half (124) near the second distal end (122). Disposed at the first half are a first coupler (125a) and a second coupler (125b). The first and second couplers are configured to couple to a first and second lifting cylinders (FIG.5, 310a; 310b) respectively. The first and second couplers are disposed on opposite sides of an outer edge of the rotatable frame. Generally, the first and second couplers are concentrically aligned to allow for balanced lifting of the rotatable frame. The rotatable frame further comprises a hoisting mechanism (140) integrated therein. In a preferable embodiment, the hoisting mechanism is a cable hoist system having a winch or reeving system for raising and lowering a cable. The cable is used to raise and lower containers on and off the truck. The rotatable frame, as shown, is raised for illustrative purposes and would normally require lifting cylinders to have the rotatable frame be in a raised position. The rotatable frame is configured to surround the stationary frame (114) when the trailer apparatus (100) is in a closed state.

[0049] The trailer apparatus (100) further comprises an attachment element (150) disposed on the first proximal end (111) of the trailer chassis (110). The attachment element is configured to couple to a corresponding hook element (FIG.6, 320) of the truck. In one embodiment, the attachment element is a lunette ring configured to couple to a pintle hook of the truck.

[0050] The trailer chassis (110) may optionally include shock absorbers (163) near the trailer axle (160) and trailer wheels (161). The shock absorbers may comprise air bags as shown, or alternatively may comprise hydraulic shock absorbers. Shock absorbers can mitigate force applied to the trailer apparatus, thereby preventing damage and increasing durability. The shock absorbers are disposed between each of the trailer wheels, however, other locations may also be used.

[0051] In some embodiment, a hydraulic system (not shown) is coupled to the hoisting mechanism (140) for raising and lowering a cable. Additionally, the hydraulic system may further be coupled to lifting cylinders (FIG.5, 310a; 310b) to raise and lower the rotatable frame (120). In a preferable embodiment, controls for the hydraulic system are located on the truck. In alternative embodiments, the controls may be located on the trailer apparatus (100) at a location for convenient operation. Other components of the hydraulic system, including a reservoir, pump motor, and hydraulic cylinder may be located on the truck and/or the trailer apparatus near the first distal end (112). Alternative setups for the hydraulic system may also be utilized as can be appreciated with one having skill in the art.

[0052] FIG.2 shows a side view of the trailer apparatus (100) in an open state according to the first illustrated embodiment. The trailer system includes a rotatable frame (120) hingedly coupled to a trailer chassis (110) at a hinge (130). The hinge is coupled near a first distal end (112) of the trailer chassis and a second distal end (122) of the rotatable frame. A stationary frame (114) is fixedly coupled to a top surface (113) of the trailer chassis wherein the stationary frame extends from the first distal end through a first proximal end (111). The rotatable frame rotates about the hinge which causes a second proximal end (121) to raise and lower relative to the stationary frame. In a preferable embodiment, the rotatable frame comprises a longer length than the stationary frame such that when the trailer apparatus is in a closed state, the rotatable frame extends beyond the stationary frame. The trailer apparatus further comprises an attachment element (150) disposed on the first proximal end wherein the attachment element is positioned below the stationary frame. [0053] The rotatable frame (120) comprises a first coupler (125a) disposed on an outer of a first half (123) of the rotatable frame, thereby maximizing leverage when coupled with a lifting cylinder. When the lifting cylinders extend, the rotatable frame is pushed upwards, and along with a hoisting mechanism (140), allows for a container to be loaded and/or unloaded.

[0054] The trailer apparatus also includes a trailer axle (160) having two trailer wheels (161) disposed near the first distal end (112). Each trailer wheel comprises a wheel center (162). In one embodiment, the wheel center and the hinge (130) are not vertically aligned wherein the hinge is disposed closer to the first distal end.

[0055] In some embodiments, the trailer axle (160) and trailer wheels (161) are coupled to a lifting mechanism such that the trailer wheels are configured to elevate from a ground surface. The trailer wheels can remain lifted from the ground surface while a container is not being transported, loaded, or unloaded. This allows for less wear on the trailer wheels and corresponding brakes, and can also provide greater maneuverability when driving. However, when a container is being loaded, transported, or unloaded, it is preferable that the trailer axle and trailer wheels are lowered to provide better stability.

[0056] FIG.3 shows a side view of the trailer apparatus (100) in a closed state according to the first illustrated embodiment. The trailer apparatus comprises a rotatable frame (120) having a second distal end (122) coupled to a trailer chassis (110) at a first distal end (112). The coupling of the rotatable frame and trailer chassis form a hinge (130) wherein the rotatable frame is capable of rotating with respect to an axis of the hinge. A second proximal end (121) comprises a first coupler (125a) that is configured to couple to a lifting cylinder for purposes of lifting and lowering the rotatable frame. The trailer apparatus further comprises a trailer axle (160) extending through the trailer chassis and a trailer wheel (161) coupled thereto. The rotatable frame comprises a hoisting mechanism (140) for means of lifting and lowering a cable. The rotatable frame is nested over a stationary frame (114) when in the closed state.

[0057] The trailer apparatus (100) is shown in the closed and not attached to a truck. While detached from a truck, the trailer apparatus may utilize a landing gear (180) to keep the stationary frame (114) level with a ground surface. The landing gear would allow the trailer apparatus to remain in a position that could easily receive a truck for quick attachment and detachment. In a preferred embodiment, the landing gear is integrated with the trailer system and coupled to the rotatable frame (120), stationary frame or both. Alternatively, external supports may be used instead. In some embodiments, the landing gear is configured to hold the second proximal end upright while simultaneously allowing a truck to back into and couple with the trailer apparatus. Preferably, the landing gear would not interfere with any part of the truck.

[0058] FIG.4 shows a top view of the trailer apparatus (100) in a closed state according to the first illustrated embodiment. Here, a rotatable frame (120) has a first coupler (125a) and second coupler (125b) located on opposite sides near a second proximal end (121). A trailer axle (160) extends through the trailer apparatus near a second distal end (122). Attached to the trailer axle are trailer wheels (161). A hoisting mechanism (140) for lifting a cable hoist system is integrated with the rotatable frame and further disposed beneath the rotatable frame near the trailer axle. Second Illustrated Embodiment

[0059] FIG.5 shows a perspective view of a trailer system (300) according to a second illustrated embodiment. The trailer system includes a trailer apparatus (200) coupled to a truck (301) by a first lifting cylinder (310a) and a second lifting cylinder (310b). The truck includes a front end (302), a truck cab (304), a rear end (303), and a truck chassis (305). The trailer apparatus includes a rotatable frame (220) hingedly coupled to a trailer chassis (210). A stationary frame (214) extends from the trailer chassis onto the truck chassis. In some embodiments, the stationary frame rests on top of the truck chassis, and in other embodiments the stationary frame is coupled to the truck chassis by fastening mechanism that can be appreciated by one having skill in the art. [0060] The first and second lifting cylinders (310a; 310b) are each coupled to opposite sides of the truck chassis (305), and are each further coupled to the rotatable frame (220) by a first coupler (225a) and a second coupler (225b), respectively. The first and second lifting cylinders each comprise a plurality of centrically aligned cylinders to form collapsible and expandable cylinders. As the first and second lifting cylinders expand, a second proximal end (221) of the rotatable frame is configured to lift upwards.

[0061] A container can be disposed on the rotatable frame (220) and can be lowered onto the ground with the assistance of a hoisting mechanism (240). Or alternatively, while the rotatable frame is upright, a container on a ground surface can be lifted onto the rotatable frame with the assistance of the hoisting mechanism. In one embodiment, controls for the hoisting mechanism and lifting cylinders are separate yet nearby each other to allow a user of the trailer system (300) the ability to raise/lower the hoisting mechanism and raise/lower the lifting cylinders in preferred proportions and order. In other embodiments, the hoisting mechanism and lifting cylinders are controlled by a single control which moves in a pre-programmed order and proportion as can be appreciated by one having skill in the art.

[0062] The first and second couplers (225a; 225b) can be either male or female, and the first and second lifting cylinders (330a; 330b) can be a corresponding female or male for proper fit. The first and second couplers may comprise a pin slot for receiving a locking pin to ensure a secure fit. Preferably, the first and second couplers are near the second proximal end so as to provide sufficient leverage when lifting. Junctions between the first/second couplers and the first/second lifting cylinders may comprise flexible fits to reduce rigidity and allow the trailer system (300) to handle rough terrain while driving.

[0063] The trailer system (300) comprises a plurality of truck wheels (306) from the truck (301) and a plurality of trailer wheels (261) from the trailer apparatus (200). The trailer wheels and truck wheels are aligned with the ground surface such that the trailer apparatus is substantially level with the trailer chassis (305). The trailer wheels can remain on the ground surface indefinitely or can elevated when not in use. Mudflaps (270) are positioned behind the trailer wheels to prevent back splatter.

[0064] As shown, the trailer system (300) comprises the first and second lifting cylinders (310a; 310b) which are coupled to the rotatable frame (220) on opposite sides thereof. In alternative embodiments, the trailer system comprises a single lifting cylinder coupled to a center portion of the rotatable frame. In some embodiments, the truck (301) can be modified to allow for fast and easy coupling and decoupling of the trailer apparatus (200). Modifications may include adding a power take-off (PTO), a hydraulic system, and/or a hydraulic tank.

[0065] FIG.6 shows a side view of the trailer system (300) in an open state according to the second illustrated embodiment. The trailer system includes a truck (301) having a front end (302) and a rear end (303). A first lifting cylinder (310a) is coupled to a truck chassis (305) near the rear end. The first cylinder lift is further coupled to a rotatable frame (220) at a first coupler (225a). The rotatable frame comprises a second proximal end (221) and a second distal end (222), further comprises a first half (223) and a second half (224). A trailer chassis (210) having a first proximal end (211) and a first distal end (212) is coupled to the truck chassis at the first proximal end. An attachment element (250) disposed on the trailer chassis is coupled to a hook element (320) disposed on the trailer chassis. A hinge (230) couples the trailer chassis (210) to the rotatable frame (220) at the first distal end (212) and second distal end (222), respectively. In some embodiments, the second distal end of the rotatable frame extends beyond the hinge such that when the rotatable frame is in a fully or near fully open state, the second distal end abuts or nearly abuts a ground surface disposed below to allow for easier loading and unloading of a roll-off container. [0066] In a preferred embodiment, the first cylinder lift (310a) may comprise a plurality of cylinders coupled telescopically. This embodiment allows for the cylinder lift to extend farther and lift the rotatable frame (220) at higher angles. This can result in a faster unloading of a container. It will be appreciated by one having skill in the art that alternative means of lifting the rotatable frame are also available, including a scissor lift or a single cylinder lift coupled to a center of the rotatable frame. An important design consideration may include ensuring that while the trailer apparatus is detached, the lifting cylinders or any alternative solutions will not obstruct a fifth wheel or a corresponding fifth wheel trailer from being attached.

[0067] FIG.7 shows another side view of the trailer system (300) in a closed state according to the second illustrated embodiment. The closed state is typical when loading or unloading is not occurring. The trailer system comprises a trailer apparatus (200) coupled to a truck (301). The trailer apparatus comprises a rotatable frame (220) resting on a truck chassis (305). The rotatable frame is hingedly coupled to a trailer chassis (210) by a hinge (230). A stationary frame (not shown) is nested within the rotatable frame while in the closed stated. The rotatable frame is coupled to a first lifting cylinder (310a) and second lifting cylinder (not shown). The first and second lifting cylinders are further coupled to the truck chassis. [0068] The trailer chassis (210) comprises a first mating portion (215) configured to neighbor a second mating portion (307) of the truck chassis. As shown, the first mating portion comprises a concave curvature for proper fitting to the second mating portion having a convex curvature.

[0069] FIG.8 shows a perspective view of a truck chassis (305). The truck chassis does not comprise a trailer apparatus attached thereto. Instead shows a truck in a fifth wheel configuration as opposed to a roll off configuration. The truck chassis comprises a plurality of truck wheels (306) disposed on either side thereof. At one end of the truck chassis is a second mating portion (307) and a hook element (320) configured to couple with an attachment element (FIGI, 150). A fifth wheel (330) is coupled to the truck chassis and configured to receive a fifth wheel trailer. The truck chassis further comprises a first lifting cylinder (310a) and a second lifting cylinder (310b) coupled at an end opposite the second mating portion.

[0070] The first and second lifting cylinders (310a; 310b) remain attached to the truck while the trailer apparatus is decoupled. A support member (311) is shown disposed between the plurality of truck wheels (306) and where the first lifting cylinder is coupled to truck chassis (305). The support member is configured to hold the first lifting cylinder upright while not in use to prevent interference with the plurality of truck wheels. An additional support member can be disposed on an opposite side of the truck chassis for holding the second lifting cylinders. In some embodiments, the first lifting cylinder has a sufficient weight to where additional supports are not necessary. However, in other embodiments, additional restraints may be required as can be appreciated by one having skill in the art.

[0071] When the truck is converted from a fifth wheel truck to a roll-off truck, the fifth wheel (330) is removed in a manner known to one having skill in the art and placed in a safe location. Safe locations may include off-site, on the truck, or on the trailer apparatus.

[0072] FIG.9 shows a close-up view of the trailer system (300). A trailer chassis (210) includes a first mating portion (215) configured to rest against a second mating portion (307) of a truck chassis (305) with minimal gap therebetween. The first mating portion is disposed on a first proximal end (211) of the trailer chassis. In some embodiments, the second mating portion comprises a convex curvature and the first mating portion subsequently comprises a concave curvature. In some embodiments, the first mating portion extends further towards a ground surface and may require modification to ensure a rotatable frame (220) and stationary frame (not shown) are oriented parallel with the truck chassis while in a closed state.

Method of Attachment

[0073] A method of attaching a trailer apparatus to a truck is disclosed. It can be appreciated by one having skill in the art that an alternative order of steps will achieve the same results. It can further be appreciated by one having skill in the art that different or additional steps may be implemented.

[0074] Step 1 : Remove fifth wheel from the truck.

[0075] Step 2: Reverse the truck into a trailer apparatus. When an attachment element of the trailer apparatus engages with a hook element of the truck, a landing gear of the trailer system may be disengaged. Close the hook element around the attachment element.

[0076] Step 3: Connect necessary hose/wires/cables including air, electricity, and/or hydraulics. Standard uses of an airline include the brakes of the trailer apparatus. Other uses of the airline will be appreciated by one having skill in the art. Standard uses for electrical connections include turn signals and break lights. Custom uses of the electrical line with the trailer apparatus may include a mechanism for lifting and raising the trailer axle and trailer wheels. Other uses of the electrical connection will be appreciated by one having skill in the art. Hydraulic connections may be used for mechanisms such as the lifting cylinders and/or the hoisting mechanism.

[0077] Step 4: Once brakes are engaged with the airline, any mechanism holding the trailer wheels, such as a cinderblock or a system integrated into the trailer apparatus, may be disengaged. [0078] Step 5: Raise lifting cylinders to align with couplers of the rotatable frame. In one example, the lifting cylinders may be raised with a forklift. Alternatively, support members holding the lifting cylinders while the trailer apparatus is detached can be designed in such a way that each of the lifting cylinders are already at a desired height and therefore requires no raising. Design considerations will be made such as ensuring the lifting cylinders will not interfere with any fifth wheel trailers while the lifting cylinders are not in use.

[0079] Step 6: Insert pins through the lifting cylinders into the respective coupler.

[0080] Step 7: Remove safeguards holding the rotatable frame upward from the stationary frame. Safeguards can include external objects such made of wood, plastic, or metal. Alternative safeguards can include standoffs integrated with the trailer apparatus. It is preferable that any integrated safeguards make contact with the rotatable frame and stationary frame and avoid contact with the truck. [0081] Step 8: Add mudflaps and attach any additional required hoses.

[0082] Generally, steps for detaching a trailer apparatus comprise an opposite order of the method described above.

[0083] While various details, features, and combinations are described in the illustrated embodiments, one having skill in the art will appreciate a myriad of possible alternative combinations and arrangements of the features disclosed herein. As such, the descriptions are intended to be enabling only, and non-limiting. Instead, the spirit and scope of the invention is set forth in the appended claims.

Feature List

[0084] trailer apparatus (100; 200)

[0085] trailer chassis (110; 210)

[0086] first proximal end (111; 211)

[0087] first distal end (112; 212)

[0088] top surface (113)

[0089] stationary frame (114; 214)

[0090] rotatable frame (120; 220)

[0091] second proximal end (121; 221)

[0092] second distal end (122; 222)

[0093] first half (123)

[0094] second half (124)

[0095] first coupler (125a; 225a)

[0096] second coupler (125b; 225b)

[0097] hinge (130; 230)

[0098] hoisting mechanism (140; 240)

[0099] attachment element (150; 250)

[0100] trailer axle (160)

[0101] trailer wheel (161; 262)

[0102] wheel center (162)

[0103] shock absorber (163)

[0104] mudflaps (170; 270)

[0105] landing gear (180)

[0106] first mating surface (215)

[0107] trailer system (300)

[0108] truck (301)

[0109] front end (302)

[0110] rear end (303)

[OH l] truck cab (304)

[0112] truck chassis (305)

[0113] plurality of truck wheels (306) [0114] second mating surface (307)

[0115] first lifting cylinder (310a)

[0116] second lifting cylinder (310b)

[0117] support member (311)

[0118] hook element (320)

[0119] fifth wheel (330)