U.S. patent application number 09/829755 was filed with the patent office on 2001-09-06 for operating system for locking pins for sliding undercarriages.
Invention is credited to Eckelberry, Jim.
Application Number | 20010019196 09/829755 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 22338886 |
Filed Date | 2001-09-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20010019196 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Eckelberry, Jim |
September 6, 2001 |
Operating system for locking pins for sliding undercarriages
Abstract
A operating system for slider locking pins includes an air
compressor connected to an air supply tank. An air pressure
protection valve is connected to the air tank to protect the brake
system of the trailer. A flipper valve is connected to the air
pressure protection valve and provides selective fluid
communication between the air tank and a plurality of locking pin
driver assemblies. Each locking pin driver assembly is adapted to
move a locking pin to a disengaged position when in fluid
communication with the air tank while being adapted to move the
locking pin to the engaged position when not in fluid communication
with the air tank. Each driver assembly is configured to
substantially provide protection to each of its elements from
adverse weather conditions and articles thrown up from the road. In
one embodiment, the driver assembly includes a fixed bracket
attached to the frame of the sliding undercarriage. A traveling
bracket is connected to a locking pin. A return spring is disposed
about locking pin and disposed to create a constant force driving
the locking pin to the engaged position. An expandable air bladder
is disposed between the fixed bracket and the traveling bracket.
The expandable bladder is in fluid communication with the flipper
valve such that when the flipper valve is manipulated to provide
fluid communication between the air bladder and the air tank, the
air bladder expands driving the locking pin to the disengaged
position.
Inventors: |
Eckelberry, Jim; (Canton,
OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
William S. Gottschalk
Carlson, Gaskey & Olds, P.C.
400 W. Maple Rd., Ste. 350
Birmingham
MI
48009
US
|
Family ID: |
22338886 |
Appl. No.: |
09/829755 |
Filed: |
April 10, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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09829755 |
Apr 10, 2001 |
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09111497 |
Jul 8, 1998 |
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6213489 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
280/149.2 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B62D 53/068
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
280/149.2 |
International
Class: |
B60G 005/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A semitrailer locking pin operating system adapted to be used
with a trailer having a pair of rails having locking holes that are
selectively slidably carried by a suspension frame, the system
comprising: a source of air pressure; a main supply line in fluid
communication with said source of air pressure; a first valve in
fluid communication with said main supply line, said first valve
movable between open and closed positions; at least two locking
pins; a return spring associated with each of said locking pins,
each of said return springs continuously forcing one of said
locking pins into an engaged position; a locking pin driver
assembly connected to each of said locking pins; and each of said
locking pin driver assemblies including an expandable bladder in
fluid communication with said valve, each of said expandable
bladders overcoming one of said return springs when said first
valve is in said open position moving one of said locking pins to a
disengaged position.
2. A system according to claim 1 wherein said source of compressed
air includes an air compressor and an air tank in fluid
communication with said air compressor.
3. A system according to claim 2 further comprising an air pressure
protection valve connected to said air tank and a main supply line
connected to said air pressure protection valve and said first
valve.
4. A system according to claim 1 wherein said driver assembly
comprises: a fixed bracket adapted to be connected to the
suspension frame of the semitrailer; a traveling bracket attached
to said locking pin; said expandable air bladder disposed between
said traveling bracket and said fixed bracket.
5. A system according to claim 4 further comprising at least a
primary supply line providing fluid communication between said
expandable air bladder and said first valve, said primary supply
line being flexible.
6. A system according to claim 5 wherein said fixed bracket
includes: a U-shaped portion disposed between a pair of feet, said
feet adapted to be connected to the suspension frame; said
traveling bracket including two opposed ends connected by a pair of
opposed sides; one of said ends attached to said locking pin; said
expandable bladder disposed between said U-shaped portion of said
fixed bracket and the other of said ends of said traveling
bracket.
7. A system according to claim 6 wherein said U-shaped portion of
said fixed bracket is disposed between said sides of said traveling
bracket.
8. A system according to claim 7 wherein said return spring is
disposed around said locking pin.
9. A system according to claim 8 wherein said locking pin defines a
shoulder, said return spring engaging said shoulder and adapted to
engage the suspension frame of the semitrailer.
10. A semitrailer locking pin operating system adapted to be used
with a trailer having a pair of rails having locking holes that are
selectively slidably carried by a suspension frame, the system
comprising: a source of air pressure; a main supply line in fluid
communication with said source of air pressure; a first valve in
fluid communication with said main supply line, said first valve
movable between open and closed positions; at least two locking
pins; a return spring associated with each of said locking pins,
each of said return springs continuously forcing one of said
locking pins into an engaged position; a locking pin driver
assembly connected to each of said locking pins whereby each driver
pin assembly includes: a hollow fixed bracket; a cylinder carried
by said bracket; a piston engaging said cylinder, said piston
connected to said locking pin; said return spring being disposed
within said cylinder, said return spring engaging said piston; said
piston disposed within said cylinder and said hollow fixed
bracket.
11. A system according to claim 10 wherein said shaft of said
piston is adapted to be connected to the suspension frame in a
manner that accommodates skewed movement of said locking pin with
respect to the frame.
12. A system according to claim 11 wherein said cylinder defines a
chamber that is in fluid communication with said first valve, said
piston being disposed between said chamber and said return
spring.
13. A system according to claim 11 further comprising: a first pin
connected to said piston; a spherical bushing carried by said first
pin; and a second pin carried by said locking pin, said second pin
passing through said spherical bushing.
14. A system according to claim 13 wherein said hollow fixed
bracket includes an annular flange, said cylinder being connected
to said annular flange.
15. A semitrailer locking pin operating system adapted to be used
with a trailer having a pair of rails having locking holes that are
selectively slidably carried by a suspension frame, the system
comprising: a source of air pressure; a main supply line in fluid
communication with said source of air pressure; a first valve in
fluid communication with said main supply line, said first valve
movable between open and closed positions; at least two locking
pins adapted to be carried by the suspension frame; a return spring
associated with each of said locking pins, each of said return
springs continuously forcing one of said locking pins into an
engaged position; and a locking pin driver assembly connected to
each of said locking pins, each of said locking pin driver
assemblies having a piston and a shaft with the piston mounted on
said shaft, said locking pin formed with a cylinder therein whereby
at least a portion of the piston is disposed within the
cylinder.
16. A system according to claim 15 wherein said shaft of said
piston is adapted to be connected to the suspension frame.
17. A system according to claim 15 further comprising a base
attached to said locking pin to form a chamber between said base,
cylinder, and said piston; said chamber being in fluid
communication with said first valve; said shaft of said piston
extending through said base of said cylinder.
18. A system according to claim 15 wherein said shaft of said
piston is adapted to be connected to the suspension frame in a
manner that accommodates skewed movement of said locking pin with
respect to the frame.
19. A system according to claim 18 further comprising: a pin
attached to said shaft; a spherical bushing carried by said pin; a
sleeve adapted to extend between the suspension frame and said
spherical bushing; and a connector extending through said spherical
bushing and said sleeve.
20. A system according to claim 19 further comprising an expandable
and collapsible protection sleeve surrounding at least a portion of
said shaft.
21. A system according to claim 15 wherein said shaft defines an
air supply passageway that partially provides fluid communication
between said first valve and said chamber.
22. A system according to claim 15 wherein said return spring is
disposed within said cylinder in said locking pin.
23. A semitrailer locking pin operating system adapted to be used
with a trailer having a pair of rails having locking holes that are
selectively slidably carried by a suspension frame, the system
comprising: a source of air pressure; a main supply line in fluid
communication with said source of air pressure; a first valve in
fluid communication with said main supply line, said first valve
movable between open and closed positions; at least two locking
pins; a return spring associated with each of said locking pins,
each of said return springs continuously forcing one of said
locking pins into an engaged position; and a locking pin driver
assembly connected to each of said locking pins, each of said
driver assemblies having a service chamber in fluid communication
with said first valve; said service chamber having an output shaft;
and lever means connecting said output shaft to said locking pin
for moving said locking pin to said disengaged position when said
shaft is extended from said service chamber.
24. A system according to claim 23 wherein said return spring
surrounds at least a portion of said locking pin.
25. A system according to claim 24 wherein said locking pin has a
should formed therein, said return spring adapted to extend between
said shoulder and the suspension frame.
26. A system according to claim 23 wherein said lever means
comprises: a first bar pivotally connected to said output shaft;
and a second bar pivotally connected to said locking pin.
27. A system according to claim 26 wherein said lever means further
comprises a rod adapted to be pivotally connected to the suspension
frame, said rod rigidly connecting said first bar to said second
bar.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to a locking pin operating system for
securing a sliding undercarriage to the suspension frame of a
semitrailer. More particularly, the present invention relates to
the driver assemblies that drive the locking pins from an engaged
position to a disengaged position and then back again to the
engaged position. Specifically, the present invention relates to a
locking pin operating system that includes a single
manually-operated valve that selectively directs pressurized air to
expandable chambers wherein expansion of the chambers drives
locking pins to disengaged positions while release of the
pressurized air from the chambers allows springs to drive the
locking pins to the engaged positions.
Background Information
[0002] In the United States, a tractor/semitrailer combination has
been one of the most common modes of transportation of goods since
World War II. The tractor/semitrailer combination includes a
tractor having an engine, transmission, steerable front axle with
wheels, and one or more rear drive axles and wheels. The tractor is
attached to the semitrailer through a fifth wheel which is located
over the tractor's rear drive axle. The semitrailer is unpowered
and rides on one or more axles having a plurality of wheels. The
semitrailer also includes a braking system and a suspension that
are operated and adjusted from the tractor.
[0003] As the use of tractor/semitrailers grew over the years and
their size increased, federal and state laws were passed that limit
the weight per axle for tractors and semitrailers. It thus became
desirable to be able to shift the load of the trailer to more
evenly distribute its weight over the various axles. In order to
redistribute the weight, a sliding undercarriage was developed that
allows the relative position of the semitrailer's load to be
adjusted with respect to the axles of the semitrailer. A sliding
undercarriage typically includes a pair of slider rails having a
linear array of locking pin holes disposed along their length. The
slider rails slidably engage the frame of the suspension for the
semitrailer and are held thereto by various devices. One device
that holds the relative position of the slider rails with respect
to the suspension frame is a locking pin. A sliding undercarriage
typically includes two or four locking pins disposed about the
corners of the suspension frame.
[0004] When the locking pins are engaged between the slider rails
and the frame, the slider rails and load carrying portion of the
semitrailer cannot be adjusted with respect to the wheels and
suspension frame. The locking pins must be retracted to a
disengaged position to allow the load carrying portion of the
semitrailer to be adjusted along the suspension frame.
[0005] Both non-manual and manual systems are known in the art for
moving the locking pins from an engaged position to a disengaged
position and back to the engaged position. One manual system
includes a handle connected to a torsion bar. A plurality of links
connect each locking pin to the torsion bar. When adjustment of the
semitrailer is required, the driver locks the brakes on both the
tractor and semitrailer. The driver then climbs out of the tractor,
walks to the sliding undercarriage, and pulls or lifts the manually
operated locking pin release handle. This handle is typically
positioned adjacent the wheels carried by the suspension frame. The
pulling or lifting of the handle transmits a force through the
links which overcomes the spring-loaded locking pins causing them
to move to a disengaged position. The manual system typically
includes means for holding all of the pins in the disengaged
position while the driver returns to the tractor to reposition the
sliding undercarriage. To reposition the undercarriage, the driver
releases the brakes on the tractor while leaving the brakes on the
semitrailer's sliding undercarriage engaged. The tractor is then
driven forward or backward to slide the semitrailer relative to the
sliding undercarriage. The driver then reapplies the tractor brakes
and leaves the tractor to return to the sliding undercarriage to
release the handle allowing the pins to return to the engaged
position. Unfortunately, the spring-loaded locking pins are not
usually perfectly aligned with the locking pin holes such that they
all may not slide directly back into the engaged position. When
this occurs, the driver returns to the tractor, releases the
tractor brakes, and moves the semitrailer or rocks the semitrailer
until the spring-loaded pins align with the locking pin holes and
return to the engaged position. The driver must then reapply the
brakes and walk around the semitrailer to visually verify that all
pins are in the engaged position. The manually operated pin
retraction systems, such as the one described above, often become
impossible to operate due to damage or corrosion of the linkages
and contamination with dirt or ice from exposure to the elements.
The locking pins themselves can also become stuck in the locking
pin holes when the semitrailer is parked on an incline or
positioned with a twist in the frame. A common occurrence is that
the driver will use a hammer to pound the locking pins from the
engaged position to the disengaged position. Such hammering often
damages the pins causing future operation of the manual system to
be difficult.
[0006] In view of these problems with the manual system, non-manual
systems using compressed air delivered from the braking system of
the semitrailer were developed. One example of such a system can be
found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,314,201. Still other improvements to that
system may be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,465,990, 5,564,727, and
5,620,195. These systems utilize compressed air delivered from the
tractor to operate the braking and suspension systems of the
semitrailer to move the locking pins between engaged and disengaged
positions. These systems employ piston/cylinder combinations
connected to the locking pins whereby selective delivery of
pressurized air to the piston/cylinder causes the locking pin to
move. Although these non-manual systems provide significant
improvements over the manual system discussed above, improved
driver assemblies and operating system configurations are still
desired in the art.
[0007] For instance, the air cylinders used in the prior art to
drive the locking pins between the engaged and disengaged positions
are relatively exposed to the elements and unprotected from debris
that may be thrown up from the road by the rear wheels of the
tractor. It is thus desired in the art to provide a driver assembly
that protects its moving parts from the elements to prevent or at
least hinder the negative effects of water, salt, snow, and ice on
the driver assembly. Another undesirable aspect of the driver
assemblies of the prior art is their relative size. It is desirable
to provide a driver assembly that is as compact as possible so that
it may be fit onto various types of trailers without modification
of the trailer. One difficulty with providing a compact driver
assembly is that the locking pins are relatively long compared to
the portion of the locking pin that actually locks the semitrailer
body to the sliding undercarriage frame. Furthermore, the air
cylinders disclosed in the prior art are relatively long with their
pistons extending therefrom to further increase their length. It is
also desired in the art to provide a compact, weather resistant
driver assembly for a locking pin system that provides an
accommodating or flexible connection between the locking pin and
the driver assembly to accommodate movement of the locking pin with
respect to the frame.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] In view of the foregoing, the primary objective of the
present invention is to provide an operating system for slider
locking pins.
[0009] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an
operating system for slider locking pins that utilizes air pressure
already available on the tractor-trailer.
[0010] Still another objective of the present invention is to
provide an operating system for slider locking pins that provides a
safety mechanism that protects the braking system of the
trailer.
[0011] Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide
an operating system for slider locking pins that may be installed
onto existing trailer frames without substantial modification of
the trailer frames.
[0012] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an
operating system for slider locking pins that includes driver
assemblies that are substantially compact.
[0013] A further objective of the present invention is to provide
an operating system for slider locking pins that is designed to
withstand adverse weather conditions such as water, ice, mud, and
the like.
[0014] Yet a further objective of the present invention is to
provide an operating system for slider locking pins that is strong
enough to withstand various shock forces that may occur on the road
such as impacts from debris and the like.
[0015] Still a further objective of the present invention is to
provide an operating system for slider locking pins utilizing an
expandable air bladder that is substantially impervious to weather
and provides reliable operation through repeated use.
[0016] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an
operating system for slider locking pins utilizing minimal moving
parts.
[0017] A further objective of the present invention is to provide
an operating system for slider locking pins utilizing a return
spring that is protected from the elements.
[0018] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an
operating system for slider locking pins that provides continuous
pressure to the locking pins holding them in position while in
use.
[0019] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an
operating system for slider locking pins utilizing a piston
cylinder assembly that encloses the return spring.
[0020] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an
operating system for slider locking pins utilizing the locking pin
as a moveable cylinder in cooperation with a fixed piston.
[0021] A further objective of the present invention is to provide
an operating system for slider locking pins utilizing a service
chamber and linkage mechanism that moves a locking pin between the
engaged and disengaged positions.
[0022] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an
operating system for slider locking pins that is of simple
construction, which achieves the stated objectives in a simple,
effective, and inexpensive manner, and which solves the problems
and which satisfies the needs existing in the art.
[0023] These and other objectives and advantages are obtained by
the operating system of the present invention, the general nature
of which may be stated as including a source of air pressure; a
main supply line in fluid communication with the source of air
pressure; a first valve in fluid communication with the main supply
line, the first valve movable between open and closed positions; at
least two locking pins; a return spring associated with each of the
locking pins, each of the return springs continuously forcing one
of the locking pins into an engaged position; a locking pin driver
assembly connected to each of the locking pins; and each of the
locking pin driver assemblies including an expandable bladder in
fluid communication with the valve, each of the expandable bladders
overcoming one of the return springs when the first valve is in the
open position moving one of the locking pins to a disengaged
position.
[0024] Other objectives and advantages are obtained by the
operating system of the present invention, the general nature of
which may be stated as including a source of air pressure; a main
supply line in fluid communication with the source of air pressure;
a first valve in fluid communication with the main supply line, the
first valve movable between open and closed positions; at least two
locking pins; a return spring associated with each of the locking
pins, each of the return springs continuously forcing one of the
locking pins into an engaged position; a locking pin driver
assembly connected to each of the locking pins; each of the driver
pin assemblies comprising: a hollow fixed bracket; a cylinder
carried by the bracket; a piston engaging the cylinder, the piston
connected to the locking pin; and the return spring being disposed
within the cylinder, the return spring engaging the piston; the
piston disposed within the cylinder and the hollow fixed
bracket.
[0025] Still other objectives and advantages are obtained by the
operating system of the present invention, the general nature of
which may be stated as including a source of air pressure; a main
supply line in fluid communication with the source of air pressure;
a first valve in fluid communication with the main supply line, the
first valve movable between open and closed positions; at least two
locking pins; a return spring associated with each of the locking
pins, each of the return springs continuously forcing one of the
locking pins into an engaged position; a locking pin driver
assembly connected to each of the locking pins, each of the locking
pin driver assemblies comprising: a piston having a shaft; the
shaft of the piston adapted to be connected to the suspension
frame; the locking pin defining a cylinder; the piston being
disposed in the cylinder; and a base attached to the locking pin to
form a chamber between the base, cylinder, and the piston; the
chamber in fluid communication with the first valve; the shaft of
the piston extending through the base of the cylinder.
[0026] Yet other objectives and advantages are obtained by the
operating system of the present invention, the general nature of
which may be stated as including a source of air pressure; a main
supply line in fluid communication with the source of air pressure;
a first valve in fluid communication with the main supply line, the
first valve movable between open and closed positions; at least two
locking pins; a return spring associated with each of the locking
pins, each of the return springs continuously forcing one of the
locking pins into an engaged position; a locking pin driver
assembly connected to each of the locking pins, each of the driver
assemblies comprising: a service chamber in fluid communication
with the first valve; the service chamber having an output shaft;
and lever means connecting the output shaft to the locking pin for
moving the locking pin to the disengaged position when the shaft is
extended from the service chamber.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] The preferred embodiments of the invention, illustrative of
the best modes in which the Applicant contemplated applying the
principles of the invention are set forth in the following
description and are shown in the drawings and are particularly and
distinctly pointed out and set forth in the appended claims.
[0028] FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of the rear portion of a
sliding undercarriage attached to a trailer frame.
[0029] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the trailer frame incorporating
the operating system of the present invention with the semitrailer
removed, the slider rails depicted in dashed lines.
[0030] FIG. 3 is a detailed view of the area appearing in the
dashed circle depicted in FIG. 2.
[0031] FIG. 4 is a sectional view taken substantially along line
4-4 of FIG. 3 showing the pin in the engaged position.
[0032] FIG. 5 is a sectional view substantially similar to FIG. 4
depicting the pin in a disengaged position.
[0033] FIG. 6 is a top plan view of a portion of the trailer frame
showing one locking pin engaged with another locking pin
disengaged.
[0034] FIG. 7 is a view substantially similar to FIG. 6 showing
both locking pins engaged.
[0035] FIG. 8 is a sectional view substantially similar to FIG. 4
depicting a first alternative embodiment of the present invention
with the locking pin in the engaged position.
[0036] FIG. 9 is a sectional view substantially similar to FIG. 8
showing the first alternative embodiment in the disengaged
position.
[0037] FIG. 10 is a sectional view substantially similar to FIG. 4
depicting a second alternative embodiment of the present invention
with the locking pin in the engaged position.
[0038] FIG. 11 is a sectional view substantially similar to FIG. 10
depicting the locking pin in the disengaged position.
[0039] FIG. 12 is a plan view of a portion of the trailer frame
depicted with the semitrailer removed for clarity depicting a third
alternative embodiment of the present invention with the locking
pin engaged.
[0040] FIG. 13 is a plan view substantially similar to FIG. 12
depicting the locking pin in the disengaged position.
[0041] FIG. 14 is an elevational view of the third alternative
embodiment of the present invention.
[0042] Similar numbers refer to similar elements throughout the
drawings.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0043] The operating system of the present invention is used in
conjunction with the semitrailer 10 depicted in the drawings. As
may be seen in FIG. 1, semitrailer 10 includes a sliding
undercarriage, indicated generally by the numeral 12, that is
adjustably mounted on a trailer frame, indicated generally by the
numeral 14. Sliding undercarriage 12 includes a pair of
substantially parallel, spaced slider rails or body rails 16. Each
rail 16 is attached by appropriate means to the body 18 of
semitrailer 10 such that adjustment of the position rails 16
adjusts the position of body 18. Frame 14 includes at least a pair
of side rails 20 connected by a plurality of cross bars 22. As may
be seen in FIG. 1, frame 14 may also include a frame bracket 24
that extends downwardly from side rail 20. Beams 26 pivotally
extend forwardly and rearwardly from frame bracket 24 to at least
partially support a suspension air spring 28. The locations of the
wheels of semitrailer 10 are depicted in FIG. 1 by the dashed lines
labeled with the numeral 30.
[0044] Frame 14 also includes at least two safety clips or hold
down clamps 32 attached to each rail 20 that slidably engage slider
rail 16. Each safety clip 32 may be attached to frame 14 by any
appropriate means such as a weld or a nut and bolt combination 34.
As may be seen for example in FIG. 4, safety clip 32 includes a
hook portion 36, that substantially surrounds and slidably engages
a flange 38 of slider rail 16. It may thus be understood that
semitrailer 10 is retained on frame 14 laterally through the
engagement between safety clips 32 and flange 38. Semitrailer 10 is
retained longitudinally with respect to frame 14 by at least a
plurality of locking pins 40 that are selectively disposed in
locking pin holes 42 disposed in slider rails 16. Holes 42 are
disbursed along the entire length of the slider rail 16 and are
typically spaced at equal intervals. Engagement between locking
pins 40 and slider rail 16 also vertically retains semitrailer 10
with respect to frame 14.
[0045] As discussed in the Background of the Invention section of
this specification, it is desirable for semitrailer 10 to be
adjustable with respect to frame 14. As such, body 18 of
semitrailer 10 is supported by slider rails 16 which, in turn, are
slidably disposed on frame 14 when locking pins 40 are disengaged.
Slider rails 16 slidably engage bearings or sections of glide
material 44 attached to the upper surface 46 of side rails 20 of
frame 14. Bearings 44 may be attached to upper surface 46 of rails
20 by any of the numerous appropriate means known in the art but
may be preferably attached by a plurality of screws 48 as depicted
in the drawings.
[0046] In accordance with one of the main objectives of the present
invention, an improved operating system for slider locking pins 40
is provided and is indicated generally by the numeral 50 in the
accompanying drawings. Operating system 50 allows each of locking
pins 40 to be retracted to a disengaged position by manipulating a
single valve. Operating system 50 employs a minimum of elements and
moving parts to ensure its reliability. Operating system 50 obtains
pressurized air from the air tank 52 that is carried by frame 14 to
provide pressurized air to the braking system of the tractor
trailer. Air tank 52 obtains a supply of compressed air from the
compressor 54 disposed on the tractor 56. A plurality of detachable
pigtail supply lines 58 selectively attach air tank 52 to
compressor 54. Operating system 50 includes a brake protection
valve 60 connected to air tank 52. Brake protection valve 60 is
configured to sense air pressure in air tank 52 and close when the
air pressure in air tank 52 drops below a predetermined level that
is the minimum for operating the braking system. The suspension
operating system 62 branches out of one side of brake protection
valve 60 while locking pin operating system 50 branches from the
other side of brake protection valve 60.
[0047] A main supply line 64 provides fluid communication between
brake protection valve 60 and a flipper valve 66 that is disposed
between wheels 30 and carried by one of side rails 20 of frame 14.
Main supply line 64 may be fabricated from any of a variety of
known materials but it is preferred that supply line 64 is
fabricated from a relatively flexible material. It is preferred
that flipper valve 66 be disposed beneath rail 20 as depicted in
the drawings as it is a sheltered location. The exact location of
flipper valve 66 is not, however, critical to the present
invention. Main supply line 64 provides a constant source of
pressurized air to flipper valve 66 when brake protection valve 60
senses adequate air pressure in air tank 52. Flipper valve 66 is
used to selectively direct pressurized air from main supply line 64
to each of locking pins 40 causing them to move to the disengaged
position. It is to be understood that operation of flipper valve 66
directs the pressurized air to all of locking pins 40
simultaneously.
[0048] Flipper valve 66 includes an outlet line 68 that provides
fluid communication between a T-joint 70 and flipper valve 66. A
pair of secondary supply lines 72 provide fluid communication
between T-joint 70 and a second pair of T-joints 74. A pair of
primary supply lines 76 provide fluid communication between T-joint
74 and locking pin driver assemblies 78 that cause locking pins 40
to engage and disengage slider rails 16.
[0049] It is generally desirable to fabricate line 68 and lines 72
from a generally flexible material. Furthermore, primary supply
lines 76 are fabricated from a generally flexible material for a
reason more clearly described below with reference to FIGS. 6 and
7. Each of lines 64, 68, 72, and 76 may be supported from frame 14
in a manner to provide protection from the elements and debris that
may be thrown up from the road by the wheels of the tractor 56 or
semitrailer 10. Similarly, flipper valve 66 is also disposed in a
sheltered location. Flipper valve 66 is also provided with a cover
80 that substantially surrounds valve handle 82 in a manner that
prevents exposure to the elements and accidental operation of
flipper valve 66. To provide additional protection, a face plate 84
may be provided that must be detached from cover80 prior to
operating valve 66.
[0050] Another objective of the present invention is to provide
operating system 50 with reliable locking pin driver assemblies 78
that utilize an expandable air bladder to move locking pins 40. A
view of one embodiment of locking pin driver assembly 78 meeting
this objective is depicted in FIGS. 3-5. Assembly 78 includes a
fixed bracket 90 attached to an inner wall 92 of rail 20. Bracket
90 may be attached by any of a variety of attachment means known in
the art such as the bolts 94 depicted in the figures or by
appropriate welds. A traveling bracket 96 is attached to the shaft
98 of locking pin 40 by appropriate means such as the bolt or screw
100 depicted in the drawings. A return spring 102 is disposed about
shaft 98 to create an outwardly directed force on locking pin 40.
Spring 102 is seated against inner wall 92 and a shoulder 104 of
locking pin 40 such that locking pin 40 is constantly urged
outwardly into a locking pin hole 42 to the engaged position. When
locking pin 40 is disposed in a locking pin hole 42 as shown in
FIGS. 3 and 4, it is said to be in the engaged position. Spring 102
urges locking pin 40 outwardly until traveling bracket 96 engages
inner wall 92 to counteract the force of spring 102. As can be
perhaps best seen in FIGS. 4 and 5, rail 20 is substantially hollow
thus forming a protective covering around most of locking pin 40
and return spring 102.
[0051] The driving member of assembly 78 that moves locking pin 40
from the engaged position to the disengaged position depicted in
FIG. 5 is an expandable air bladder in the form of an air spring
106. Air spring 106 is disposed between fixed bracket 90 and
traveling bracket 96. As depicted in the drawings, air spring 106
may be connected to fixed bracket 90 by appropriate means such as a
screw or bolt 108. As is also depicted in the drawings, air spring
106 includes a fixture that extends through traveling bracket 96 to
fluidly connect with primary supply line 76. A reliable connection
may be formed by a lock nut 110.
[0052] With specific reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, fixed bracket 90
includes a pair of spaced apart feet 120 that are connected by a
U-shaped portion 122. Traveling bracket 96 includes two opposed
ends 124 connected by a pair of opposed sides 126. Shaft 98 of
locking pin 40 is attached to one of ends 124 while the other of
ends 124 is attached to one end of air spring 106. The other end of
air spring 106 is attached to U-shaped portion 122 of fixed bracket
90. Fixed bracket 90 and traveling bracket 96 are also disposed
such that U-shaped portion 122 is disposed between sides 126. There
is, however, accommodating space between U-shaped portion 122 and
traveling bracket 96.
[0053] Traveling bracket 96 is only slidably and loosely supported
on fixed bracket 90 such that it moves with locking pin 40 and may
accommodate skewed movement by pinlocking 40. The use of air spring
106 allows a fluid-tight connection to be maintained while
accommodating skewed relative movement between locking pin 40 and
fixed bracket 90. When pressurized air is supplied to air spring
106, air spring 106 creates an expansive force between traveling
bracket 96 and fixed bracket 90 as it expands. When this occurs,
traveling bracket 96 is urged away from rail 20 such that locking
pin 40 is pulled inwardly toward the disengaged position. Air
spring 106 is sized sufficiently and the air pressure is sufficient
to provide enough force to overcome spring 102 and any friction
occurring between pin 40 and slider rail 16. Traveling bracket 96,
fixed bracket 90, and air spring 106 are sized such that traveling
bracket 96 engages fixed bracket 90 when locking pin 40 has reached
the disengaged position depicted in FIG. 5 to counteract the
expansion of air spring 106. In an alternative embodiment, air
spring 106 is adapted to cease expansion when locking pin 40 is in
the disengaged position.
[0054] Locking pin 40 remains in the disengaged position until the
supply of pressurized air delivered by air tank 52 through flipper
valve 66 is cut off. When the supply of pressurized air is cut off,
return spring 102 expands and drives locking pin 40 back toward the
engaged position depicted in FIG. 4. A frequent occurrence with
semitrailers employing slider rails 16 is that slider rails 16 are
not perfectly aligned with rails 20 when return spring 102 forces
locking pin 40 back toward the engaged position. This occurrence is
depicted in FIG. 6 where it is shown that locking pin 40 on one
side has returned to the engaged position while locking pin 40 at
the other side has lodged against the inner surface of slider rail
16. FIG. 6 also depicts the necessity of fabricating primary supply
line 76 from a relatively flexible material. When traveling bracket
96 moves away from rail 20, primary supply line 76 must flex as
indicated at numeral 112 to accommodate the movement of traveling
bracket 96. When locking pin 40 is jammed, as depicted in FIG. 6,
the user of operating system 50 returns to tractor 56 and creates a
rocking motion between semitrailer 10 and frame 14. This rocking
motion is typically sufficient to realign locking pin 40 with
locking pin hole 42 allowing return spring 102 to force locking pin
40 back to the engaged position as shown in FIG. 7.
[0055] In view of the foregoing, it may be understood that locking
pin driver assembly 78 provides a reliable mechanism for driving
locking pin 40 between the engaged and disengaged positions. Driver
assembly 78 is substantially protected from the elements and
potential damage from debris thrown up from the road. The use of
air spring 106 provides a compact mechanism that generates forces
large enough to overcome friction between pin 40 and slider 16 and
other jamming forces such as ice or rust.
[0056] Operating system 50 does not require air pressure to
maintain pins 40 in the engaged position. Thus, pins 40 return to
the engaged position upon a failure of air tank 52 or compressor
54.
[0057] A second alternative embodiment of the locking pin driver
assembly of the present invention is depicted in FIGS. 8 and 9 and
is indicated generally by the numeral 278. Driver assembly 278
includes a fixed bracket 290 that extends inwardly from inner wall
92 of frame rail 20. Fixed bracket 290 is hollow and includes an
annular flange 292. Fixed bracket 290 may be attached to rail 20 by
any of a variety of suitable means known in the art. In the second
embodiment of the present invention, the traveling member is in the
form of a piston 296 that is slidably received in a cylinder 298
that is substantially rigidly attached to a base 304 which is, in
turn, carried by flange 292 of fixed bracket 290. A seal 300 is
seated in a groove in piston 296 to provide a fluid tight
connection between piston 296 and cylinder 298. A second seal 302
is provided in base 304 of cylinder 298 to form a sealed chamber
306 between piston 296 and base 304. Chamber 306 is in fluid
communication with primary supply line 76 such that chamber 306 may
be filled with pressurized air when flipper valve 66 is opened. A
return spring 308 is disposed in cylinder 298 between a grooved
cylinder end cap 310 and piston 296. Thus, it may be understood
that piston 296 is disposed between chamber 306 and spring 308.
[0058] Piston 296 includes a shaft 312 that may include a threaded
bore 314. Piston 296 may be attached to locking pin 40 by any of a
variety of appropriate means. In the embodiment of the invention
depicted in FIGS. 8 and 9, piston 296 is attached to locking pin 40
by the connection of a first pin 320 to a second pin 322. First pin
320 is threaded into threaded bore 314 of piston 296 and carries a
spherical bushing 324 at the end projected from piston 296. Second
pin 322 passes through and threadably engages at least one of a
pair of arms 326 projecting inwardly from locking pin 40. Second
pin 322 is further disposed through spherical bushing 324 such that
piston 296 is attached to locking pin 40 in an adjustable and
accommodating manner. Bushing 324 allows locking pin 40 to move
with respect to piston 296 without creating undesirable torsion
forces in piston 296. Both pins 320 and 322 as well as bushing 324
are disposed within fixed bracket 290 and are thus provided
protection. In addition to the protection provided by hollow fixed
bracket 290, cylinder 298 substantially protects spring 308 and
piston 296 from the elements.
[0059] The second embodiment of the pin driver assembly 278 is
operated by supplying pressurized air to chamber 306 causing piston
296 to move into cylinder 298. As piston 296 moves inwardly,
locking pin 40 is moved toward the disengaged position. When piston
296 is fully inserted into cylinder 298, locking pin 40 has reached
the disengaged position depicted in FIG. 9. At this time, spring
308 has also been fully compressed; When the pressure is released
from primary supply line 76, return spring 308 expands forcing
piston 296 and pin 40 back toward the engaged position depicted in
FIG. 8. It may thus be understood that driver assembly 278 provides
reliable operation while protecting its elements from the weather
and outside forces.
[0060] A third embodiment of the driver assembly of the present
invention is depicted in FIGS. 10 and 11 and is indicated generally
by the numeral 378. Driver assembly 378 includes a piston 396
slidably disposed in a cylinder 398. Piston 396 includes a shaft
412 that is connected to primary supply line 76. Shaft 412 is
supported at its projected end by a support sleeve 414 that is
attached to a frame member 416 that may be carried by rail 20 of
frame 14. As in the previously described embodiment, a spherical
bushing 424 is employed between support sleeve 414 and shaft 412 to
accommodate movement of locking pin 40 with respect to frame 14.
Shaft 412 is attached to support sleeve 414 by a threaded pin 426
that is received in a threaded bore 428. Pin 426 carries spherical
bushing 424. Pin 426 may be attached to support sleeve 414 by a
bolt 430 that extends entirely through sleeve 414 and threadably
engages a nut 432. Bolt 430 may also be used to attach sleeve 414
to frame 14.
[0061] Shaft 412 is protected from the elements by a protection
sleeve 434 that is collapsible and expandable. Sleeve 434 extends
between primary supply line 76 and base 404 of cylinder 398. A
first seal 400 is provided between piston 396 and cylinder 398 and
a second seal 402 is provided between shaft 412 and base 404 to
create a fluid tight chamber 406 between base 404 and piston 396.
It may be understood that sleeve 434 protects outside surface of
shaft 412 and thus helps to maintain good contact between shaft 412
and second seal 402.
[0062] In the third embodiment of the present invention, cylinder
398 is integrally formed in pin 40 such that cylinder 398 and base
404 move between the engaged position and disengaged position when
the air pressure supplied by primary supply line 76 is activated
and deactivated. A return spring 408 is disposed within cylinder
398 and is disposed to urge piston 396 away from locking pin 40. As
such, piston 396 and shaft 412 remain substantially fixed during
the operation of driver assembly 378.
[0063] Shaft 412 includes an air supply passageway 436 that
provides fluid communication between chamber 406 and primary supply
line 76. When pin 40 is in the engaged position, spring 408 is in
the expanded position and chamber 406 is at its minimum volume.
When flipper valve 66 is opened, pressurized air is supplied to
chamber 406 causing base 404 to move inwardly along shaft 412. As
such, cylinder 398 and thus pin 40 are moved inwardly towards the
disengaged position causing spring 408 to collapse. When this
occurs, sleeve 434 collapses to accommodate the movement. Spring
408 is collapsed until pin 40 reaches the disengaged position as
depicted in FIG. 11.
[0064] When the supply of pressurized air is cut off, spring 408
urges cylinder 398 and thus locking pin 40 back towards the engaged
position pulling base 404 and sleeve 434 along with it.
Substantially all of the elements of driver assembly 378 are
protected from the weather and that a reliable driver assembly 378
is provided.
[0065] A fourth embodiment of the driver assembly of the present
invention is indicated generally by the numeral 478 in FIGS. 12-14.
Driver assembly 478 of the fourth embodiment includes a service
chamber 480 that is in fluid communication with primary supply line
76. Although somewhat larger in size than a piston-cylinder
assembly, a service chamber 480 may be configured to provide
significantly more force than a small piston-cylinder assembly.
Service chamber 480 includes an expandable chamber/spring
arrangement (not shown) that is configured to force an output shaft
482 outwardly from service chamber 480 when pressurized air is
supplied to service chamber 480 by primary supply line 76. Shaft
482 is pivotally attached to a first bar 484. First lever bar 484
is rigidly attached to a second lever bar 486 by a rod 488. Rod 488
is pivotally carried by a pair of brackets 490 that are, in turn,
carried by frame 20. Locking pin 40 is pivotally attached to second
lever bar 486 by appropriate means such as a second pin 492. A
return spring 494 surrounds a portion of locking pin 40 and is
disposed between inner wall 92 and a shoulder 496.
[0066] Locking pin 40 may be retracted to the disengaged position
by activating service chamber 480 by supplying it with pressurized
air. Such a supply causes shaft 482 to move outwardly causing first
and second lever bars 484, 486 to pivot about the axis of rod 488.
As may be seen in FIG. 13, this motion causes locking pin 40 to
move inwardly to the disengaged position to compress return spring
494. When the supply of pressurized air is released, return spring
494 urges locking pin 40 back to the engaged position and resets
service chamber 480. Of course, other lever arrangements may also
be used to transfer the motion created by service chamber480 to
locking pin 40. For instance, a longer lever arm may be used to
create more force at locking pin 40. However, a longer lever arm
will require a longer movement of shaft 482 to fully retract
locking pin 40. In another embodiment, a straight lever bar may be
used with a single pivot.
[0067] It may thus be understood that the fourth embodiment of the
driver assembly 478 provides a reliable mechanism for driving
locking pin 40 between the engaged and disengaged positions. Driver
assembly 478 also protects its elements from the weather as the
working elements are enclosed by the service chamber 480 or the
frame 20 of the semitrailer 10.
[0068] Accordingly, the improved operating system for slider
locking pins is simplified, provides an effective, safe,
inexpensive, and efficient device which achieves all the enumerated
objectives, provides for eliminating difficulties encountered with
prior devices, and solves problems and obtains new results in the
art.
[0069] In the foregoing description, certain terms have been used
for brevity, clearness, and understanding; but no unnecessary
limitations are to be implied therefrom beyond the requirement of
the prior art, because such terms are used for descriptive purposes
and are intended to be broadly construed.
[0070] Moreover, the description and illustration of the invention
is by way of example, and the scope of the invention is not limited
to the exact details shown or described.
[0071] Having now described the features, discoveries, and
principles of the invention, the manner in which the operating
system for slider locking pins is constructed and used, the
characteristics of the construction, and the advantageous new and
useful results obtained; the new and useful structures, devices,
elements, arrangements, parts, and combinations are set forth in
the appended claims.
* * * * *