Trailer pneumatic inflation system and inflatable air bags for use therewith
US6457921B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 13, 2000 |
| Grant date | Oct 1, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 13, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60P7/065
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A pneumatic inflation system for use with a freight carrier, such as a tractor-trailer, is provided. The inflation system is available to inflate reusable air bags to cushion freight during shipment from one location to another. In one preferred embodiment, the inflation system includes an air control unit and an air coupler device. The air control unit is fluidly connectable to a compressed air storage reservoir of a tractor-trailer and supplies air to the air coupler device. In one preferred embodiment, the air control unit includes a brake protection valve and a control valve. The brake protection valve substantially disconnects the inflation system from the air storage reservoir in the event that the air pressure of the reservoir drops below a predetermined value, thereby preventing possible failure of the trailer's braking system. The control valve is available for a user to conveniently shut the inflation system off. In another preferred embodiment, the air control unit and the air coupler device are both mounted to the underside of a trailer defined by a front, a back, and opposing sides. The air control unit is positioned in close proximity to the trailer's air storage rese…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.