Importance

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Abstract

An articulated trailer utilizing two pivot points and an angular transfer system to control the radial movement of the front axle during turning is disclosed. The articulated trailer comprises an elongated carriage having two spaced-part, wheeled axles. The rear axle rigidly attaches to the carriage while the front axle is pivotally mounted. The carriage front end comprises two spaced-apart pivot points, a hollow jack column assembly and a tongue assembly. A structural assembly supports the jack column assembly and the tongue assembly. A draw bar extends from the tongue assembly to the draft vehicle. Tie-rods attach the ends of the upper tongue assembly to a pair of plates. The plates are interconnected by a shaft. A responder plate is coupled to an electric motor. The electric motor selectively rotates to effect the radial movement of the tongue assembly to transfer angular movement to the jack column assembly. Therefore, the electric motor controls the radial movement of the front axle independently of the draft vehicle movement. Thus the direction of travel of the trailer can be selectively controlled. Limit devices control the angular movement of the jack column assembly and the tongue. When backing the trailer, a locking system may be deployed to prevent pivotal movement of the jack column assembly and the tongue assembly while permitting the unimpeded radial movement of the draw bar.

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First Claim