US 2017/0291658 A1 · MODULAR TRANSPORTER

Abstract

A modular transporter comprises a universal chassis that can be linked with a variety of user modules. The universal chassis comprises a base that includes a quick connector and complex geometric surfaces on its sidewalls that function to secure a user module thereto. The quick connector allows for quick assembly/disassembly of a user module to and from the base of universal chassis. A plurality of suspension arms may be removeably connectable to the base such that modular transporter may be configured in a number of transport configurations. An ergonomic handle assembly may be coupled with the base for pushing, pulling, towing, etc. When disassembled, the modular transporter can be folded into a storage and/or quick fold mode and stored in a modular storage system. The modular storage system can be mounted to a trailer hitch by a linking mechanism for further transport.

Claims22

Dependent claims

A modular transporter, comprising:

a universal chassis configurable in a plurality of transport configurations, said universal chassis comprising a base having a top, a bottom, and sidewalls extending therebetween, said sidewalls having complex geometric surfaces, and said base comprising a receiving connector;
at least one suspension arm removeably connectable with said base;
at least one wheel configured to be coupled with said suspension arm;
and
a user module comprising an undercarriage having engagement surfaces substantially complementary to said complex geometric surfaces of said universal chassis and a mating connector, said mating connector configured to mate with said receiving connector, and said engagement surfaces configured to engage said complex geometric surfaces.

2 more elements

A linking mechanism for moving a modular storage system between an engagement/unloading position and a transport position, said linking mechanism comprising:

a plurality of links, including:
a storage connecting link, a vertical link, and a vehicle link;
said storage connecting link having a horizontal storage link portion and a vertical storage link portion, said vertical storage link configured to link with said modular storage system;
said vertical link having a vertical link top portion and a vertical link bottom portion, said vertical link top portion pivotably coupled with said horizontal storage link portion at a first top linking point;
and
said vehicle link having a vehicle link proximal end and a vehicle link distal end, and said vehicle link proximal end pivotably coupled with said vertical link bottom portion at a first bottom linking point.

3 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Modular transporter

Life of this patent

Modular transporter

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims22