Key information

Title
Step platform device for connection to a trailer hitch ball
Application number
20160818
Case type
National
Status
31.05.2025 Ikke betalt årsavgift
Filed
13.05.2016
Effective date
13.05.2016
Publicly available
14.11.2017
Applicant
OLE BAKMARK (NO)
Owner
OLE BAKMARK (NO)
Inventor
Ole Johan Bakmark (NO)
Agent
ACAPO ONSAGERS AS (NO)
Granted
22.01.2018
Patent number
341796

Abstract and drawing

Disclaimer: This text has been machine-scanned and may contain errors – please refer to "Publications" for legally binding content.
The present invention relates to a step platform device (10) for connection to a trailer hiten ball (2), the step platform device (10) comprising a trailer hitch ball connection device (20) comprising first and second connection elements (30, 40) pivotably connected to each other by means of a first connection device (15) about a first axis (Al). A platform device (50) is provided above the trailer hitch ball connection device (20); where the platform device (50) comprises an upwardly facing step surface (51) and a platform element (52) provided below the step surface (51). A link device (60) comprises a link element (61). The platform element (52) and the first connection element (30) are pivotably connected to each other about a second axis (A2) by means of a second connection device (16). The link element (61) and the second connection element (40) are pivotably connected to each other about a third axis (A3) by means of a third connection device (17). The platform element (52) and the link element (61) are pivotably connected to each other about a fourth axis (A4) by means of a fourth connection device (18). The step platform device (10) is configured to be provided in a closed state and in an open state, where the ball connection interface (21) may be connected onto the trailer hitch ball (2) in the closed state and where the ball connection interface (21) may be moved away from the trailer hitch ball (2) in the open state.

Publications

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Documents

 Expand Download files (21)
Date
 Date Doc. No. Process Case number In/Out Journal description To/from
 15.12.2025 12-01 Saksbehandling 20160818(341796) UT PT Opphørt Patent - for ikke betalt årsavgift (3311) ACAPO ONSAGERS AS
 02.10.2025 11-01 Saksbehandling 20160818(341796) UT PT Påminnelse om ikke betalt årsavgift (3329) (PT20160818) ACAPO ONSAGERS AS
 24.01.2018 10-01 Saksbehandling 20160818 UT PT Registreringsbrev Nasjonal Patent (15)
03.11.2017 09-01 Saksbehandling 20160818 UT Intention to grant Onsagers AS
 31.05.2017 08-06 Saksbehandling 20160818 INN Hovedbrev Onsagers AS
 31.05.2017 08-05 Saksbehandling 20160818 INN Krav Onsagers AS
 31.05.2017 08-04 Saksbehandling 20160818 INN Hovedbrev Onsagers AS
 31.05.2017 08-03 Saksbehandling 20160818 INN Beskrivelse med sporing Onsagers AS
 31.05.2017 08-02 Saksbehandling 20160818 INN Beskrivelse Onsagers AS
 31.05.2017 08-01 Saksbehandling 20160818 INN Korrespondanse (Hovedbrev inn) Onsagers AS
 08.05.2017 05-01 Saksbehandling 20160818 UT Bekreftelse på patentsøknad Onsagers AS
 04.05.2017 07-01 Saksbehandling 20160818 INN Korrespondanse (Hovedbrev inn) Onsagers AS
 04.05.2017 06-01 Saksbehandling 20160818 INN Korrespondanse (Hovedbrev inn) Onsagers AS
 05.12.2016 04-02 Saksbehandling 20160818 UT PT report 09:49:29
05.12.2016 04-01 Saksbehandling 20160818 UT Realitet patent Onsagers AS
 22.08.2016 03-02 Saksbehandling 20160818 INN Fullmakt Onsagers AS
 22.08.2016 03-01 Saksbehandling 20160818 INN Korrespondanse (Hovedbrev inn) Onsagers AS
 20.05.2016 02-01 Saksbehandling 20160818 UT Formalia 1 Onsagers AS
 13.05.2016 01-03 Saksbehandling 20160818 INN Beskrivelse
13.05.2016 01-02 Saksbehandling 20160818 INN Tegninger
13.05.2016 01-01 Saksbehandling 20160818 INN Søknadsskjema Patent

Description, claims and drawings

Disclaimer: This text has been machine-scanned and may contain errors – please refer to "Publications" for legally binding content. Description
Title: Step platform device for connection to a trailer hitch ballFIELD OF THE INVENTIONThe present invention relates to a step platform device for connection to a trailer hitch ball of a vehicle.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONDifferent types of equipment such as skis, bikes etc. are fastened to the roof rack of a vehicle, such as a car. The equipment may be fastened directly to the roof rack or the equipment may be stored into a rooftop cargo carrier such as a ski box.Other types of roof-fastened equipment includes tools and materials for workmen, for example ladders, boards, beams, pipes etc.It is often difficult to access such equipment when standing on the ground adjacent to the vehicle. One way of accessing the equipment is to open a side door of the vehicle and stand on the doorstep of the vehicle. It is also known step platform devices for connection to the tires of the vehicle, and then use stand on the step platform device to get access to the equipment. One disadvantage of such solutions is that the driver must remember to disconnect the step platform device from the tire before driving the vehicle.From US 2011/285104 it is known a step platform device for connection to a trailer hitch of a vehicle. The step platform device comprises several parts, a first base part which must be fixed to the trailer hitch, a second platform part removably connectable to the first base part by means of a third part (a locking pin). This step platform device is cumbersome to use, and there is a huge risk for loosing some of the parts, in particular the locking pin, for example in winter conditions (snow). In particular for workmen vehicles, there can be a need for using a trailer as well as the step platform device several times during a day, and in such situations there will be many connections/disconnections of the step platform device.From WO 2013/154884 it is known a step platform device which is more or less permanently connected to the trailer hitch of a vehicle. Here, the platform step is provided below the trailer hitch ball, such that the trailer can be connected to the trailer hitch ball without removing the step platform device. Due to the relatively lower height, persons will often find themselves standing on the trailer hitch ball itself. For safety reasons this is not a desired solution, as the trailer hitch ball may be slippery in wet or snowy conditions, and only one foot may be placed onto this ball.US 2008/0042394 describes a retractable vehicle step. The retractable vehicle step includes a mounting bracket that can be configured for attachment with a trailer hitch receiver of the vehicle. A pair of arms are provided and are pivotally attached to the mounting bracket. The pair of arms are movable between an extended position and a retracted position. A step is carried by the pair of arms. The step is configured for being stepped on by the user to access the vehicle. The step is not connected to the trailer hitch ballUS 2009/0243249 describes a step assembly easily mounted on the trailer hitch of a vehicle, and easily folded to a closed position or unfolded to an open position in place on the vehicle or off of the vehicle. In the open position, a person or a pet can more easily enter or leave a vehicle. In the closed position, the step assembly is more easily stored. The step assembly is not connected to the trailer hitch ball. US 2009/0045604 describes a hitch step assembly with a platform securable to a hitch bar and pivotable from a storage position to a stepping position with respect to the hitch bar. The platform is preferably substantially planar and parallel to the length of the hitch bar at the stepping position. The platform is pivotable to the storage position that exposes a ball mount assembly connected to the hitch bar. Walls extending downward from the platform to substantially enclose the ball mount assembly and prevent its exposure as a trip hazard during use of the hitch step. A locking pin is provided that maintains the platform at the storage position or the stepping position. The step assembly is not connected to the trailer hitch ball. US 2013/0270791 describes a hitch step selectively securable to a hitch ball receiver. The hitch step may include a step body operatively engaged with an underside portion of the hitch ball receiver, where the step body has a width providing a stepping surface, and a clamp body selectively secured to the step body and positioned on a top portion of the hitch ball receiver. The hitch step may also include at least one fastener selectively securing the clamp body to the step body with the hitch ball receiver positioned between the clamp body and the step body. The step is not connected to the trailer hitch ball.The object of the present invention is to provide an alternative and improved step platform device, where the above disadvantages are avoided. One object is to provide a step platform device which, when mounted, is taller than the trailer hitch ball. Another object is that the step platform device should be easy to mount to the vehicle and easy to detach from the vehicle. Another object of the invention is that the mounting and detaching operation should not require the step platform device to be separated into several parts.Another object of the invention is that the step platform device may be mounted to the vehicle during driving, i.e. that vibrations occurring during driving will not cause the step platform device to fall off. This is particularly desirable if the platform device is covered with dirt, mud etc. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONThe present embodiment relates to a step platform device for connection to a trailer hitch ball, characterized in that the step platform device is comprising:- a trailer hitch ball connection device comprising first and second connection elements pivotably connected to each other by means of a first connection device about a first axis; where the trailer hitch ball connection device comprises a ball connection interface comprising a first subinterface provided on the first connection element and a second subinterface provided on the second connection element; - a platform device provided above the trailer hitch ball connection device; where the platform device comprises an upwardly facing step surface and a platform element provided below the step surface;- a link device comprising a link element;- where the platform element and the first connection element are pivotably connected to each other about a second axis by means of a second connection device;- where the link element and the second connection element are pivotably connected to each other about a third axis by means of a third connection device;- where the platform element and the link element are pivotably connected to each other about a fourth axis by means of a fourth connection device;where the step platform device is configured to be provided in a closed state and in an open state, where the ball connection interface may be connected onto the trailer hitch ball in the closed state and where the ball connection interface may be moved away from the trailer hitch ball in the open state;where the step platform device is configured to be brought from the closed state to the open state by moving the first and fourth connection devices away from each other, thereby causing the second and third connection devices to move towards each other;where the step platform device is configured to be brought from the open state to the closed state by moving the first and fourth connection devices towards each other, thereby causing the second and third connection devices to move away from each other;where the connection interface is provided below the first connection device and where the second and third connection devices are provided above the first connection device. Hence, a person may easily connect the step platform device to the trailer hitch ball of a vehicle and put his foot or both feet onto the step surface to get access to rooffastened equipment of the vehicle.In one aspect, the first, second, third and fourth axis are provided at a distance from each other both in the open state and in the closed state.In one aspect, the link element and the platform element are provided substantially in parallel with each other in the closed state.In one aspect, the fourth axis is provided a distance d below a level P of the second and third axis in the closed state.In one aspect, the platform element comprises a U-shaped bracket, having two spaced apart side walls connected to each other by means of a cross member.In one aspect, the upwardly facing step surface is provided on a top element connected to the platform element.In one aspect, the top element comprises a friction reducing layer.In one aspect, the top element is connected to the platform element via a rigid supporting element.In one aspect, the link device comprises a first type of handle connected to the link element.In one aspect, a second type of handle is provided in an end of the platform device being distal to the second connection device. It is of course possible to provide the device with both types of handles.In one aspect, the trailer hitch ball connection device comprises a third connection element, where the third connection element is pivotably connected to the first connection element by means of the first connection device and where the third connection element is rigidly or pivotably connected to the second connection device by mean of a fifth connection device.In one aspect, the device comprises a locking device for locking the step platform device in the closed state.In one aspect, the locking device comprises:- a locking element connected to, and axially displaceable in relation to, the link element, where the locking element comprises an end recess;- a locking bolt adapted to be received in the end recess of the locking element; where axial displacement of the locking element in relation to the link element in a first direction is moving the end recess out from engagement with the locking bolt. DETAILED DESCRIPTIONEmbodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the enclosed drawings, where:Fig. 1a shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of the invention;Fig. 1b illustrates a simplified perspective view of the embodiment in fig. 1a;Fig. 2 illustrates a side view of a trailer hitch;Fig. 3 illustrates an exploded side view of a second embodiment;Fig. 4 illustrates a side view of the second embodiment in the closed state, as seen along line B-B of fig. 6;Fig. 5 illustrates a side view of the second embodiment in the open state;Fig. 6 illustrates a cross sectional view of the second embodiment as seen along line A-A of fig. 4;Fig. 7 illustrates an alternative embodiment in the open state;Fig. 8 illustrates yet an alternative embodiment in the open state;Fig. 9 illustrates yet an alternative embodiment in the closed state;Fig. 10 illustrates the embodiment of fig. 9 in the open state;Fig. 11 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the embodiment in fig. 9;Fig. 12 illustrates a perspective view from below of yet an alternative embodiment, where the fastening devices are removed.First, it is referred to fig.2, illustrating a trailer hitch 1 schematically. The trailer hitch comprises a trailer hitch ball 2 connected to a base structure 3 via its neck section 4, where the base structure 3 is connected to a vehicle (not shown) by means of a connection interface 5. It should be noted that there are several producers of such trailer hitches 1, and hence there are many variations of the design and function of the base structure 3 and connection interface 5, since these parts must be adapted to the vehicle they are mounted to. Moreover, it should be noted that the diameter and shape of the trailer hitch ball 2 itself may vary, for example in Europe the standard diameter (indicated by dashed line D in fig. 2) is 50 mm, while other countries have other standard diameters. It should be noted that the trailer hitch 1 is considered to be well known for a skilled person in the art. It should be noted that in the description below, the term "above", "below", "over", "under", "top", "bottom" etc. are used referring to the orientation of the step platform device when being mounted to a trailer hitch 1 of a vehicle provided on a horizontal surface. As is known, the trailer hitch 1 is oriented with its trailer hitch ball 2 protruding generally upwards from (a horizontal line H through) the base structure 3.It is now referred to fig. 3, 4, 5 and 6. Here, it is shown a step platform device 10 for connection to the trailer hitch ball 2 of fig. 2.The step platform device 10 comprises a trailer hitch ball connection device 20 comprising first and second connection elements 30, 40, platform device 50 and a link device 60.About the first and second connection elements 30, 40The first and second connection elements 30, 40 are pivotably connected to each other by means of a first connection device 15 about a first axis A1. The trailer hitch ball connection device 20 comprises a ball connection interface 21 for connection to the trailer hitch ball 2. This ball connection interface 21 is formed by two parts, a first subinterface 31 provided on the first connection element 30 and a second subinterface 41 provided on the second connection element 40. The ball connection interface 21 is preferably forming the lowermost part of the step platform device 10.The shape of the subinterfaces 31, 41 are adapted to the trailer hitch ball 2 and to be clamped onto the trailer hitch ball 2. The lowermost parts 32, 42 of the subinterfaces 31, 41 is preferably adapted to be clamped to the neck section 4 of the trailer hitch 1.The first and second connection elements 30, 40 may be equal to each other or substantially equal to each other. In fig. 6 and 11 it is shown that the second connection element 40 comprises a U-shaped bracket, having two spaced apart, side walls 40a, 40b fixed to each other by means of a cross member 40c. The side walls 40a, 40b are oriented in parallel to each other.In fig. 11 it is shown that the first connection element 30 comprises a U-shaped bracket, having two spaced apart side walls 30a, 30b fixed to each other by means of a cross member 30c. The side walls 30a, 30b are oriented in parallel to each other. The first connection element 30 comprises connectors 35, 36 while the second connection element 40 comprises connectors 45, 47. The connectors 35, 36 and 45, 47 are provided in the side walls 30a, 30b, 40a, 40b of the U-shaped brackets forming the first and second connection elements 30, 40. The connectors 35, 45 are forming the first connection device 15, together with a fastening device 95 (shown in fig. 11).About the platform device 50The platform device 50 comprises an upwardly facing step surface 51 and a platform element 52 provided below the step surface 51. Also the platform element 52 is comprising a U-shaped bracket, having two spaced apart side walls 52a, 52b fixed to each other by means of a cross member 52c. This is best shown in fig. 11. The side walls 52a, 52b are protruding downwardly from the cross member 52c. In fig. 6, it is shown that the two spaced apart, side walls 40a, 40b of the second connection element 40 are provided between the two spaced apart side walls 52a, 52b. The platform device 50 is provided above the trailer hitch ball connection device 20. Hence, the step platform where the user is placing his foot is provided above the ball 2.The platform element 52 comprises connectors 56, 58 provided in the side walls 52a, 52b of the U-shaped bracket. In fig. 1a, 1b and fig. 3, it is shown that the upwardly facing step surface 51 of the platform device 50 is provided on a top element 54 connected to the platform element 52. This top element 54 may for example be provided with or as a friction reducing layer. The friction reducing layer may for example be a rubber layer or another layer of a suitable material. As shown in fig. 3, the horizontal length of the top element 54 is larger than the horizontal length of the platform element 52. If the strength of the top element 54 is not sufficient alone to support the desired weight, the top element 54 is connected to the platform element 52 via a rigid supporting element 55. Hence, it is possible to provide a rather long step platform device 10.In the alternative embodiments shown in fig. 7 and 8, the platform device 50 comprises a handle 59. The handle 59 is provided in the end of the platform device 50 being distal to the second connection device 16, i.e. the fourth connection device 18 is provided between the handle 59 and the second connection device 16.About the link device 60The link device 60 comprises a link element 61, where two connectors 67, 68 are provided on the link element 61 (fig. 3). The link element 61 may be formed by a section of square pipe (fig. 6).In the embodiments of fig. 1a, 1b, 3, 4 and 5, the link device 60 comprises a handle 69 connected to the link element 61. The handle 69 may be oriented with an angle α in relation to the link element 61. Preferably, the angle is between 180˚ - 90˚, more preferably between 130˚ -100˚. In fig. 1b, this angle α is indicated as being ca 170˚. In fig. 4, this angle α is indicated as being ca 120˚. The handle 69 is provided in an end of the link device 60 being distal to the fourth connection device 18, i.e. the third connection device 17 is provided between the handle 69 and the fourth connection device 18.In the alternative embodiments shown in fig. 7 and 8, the link device 60 does not comprise a handle. Here, the link device 60 only comprises a link element 61 with the connectors 67, 68 in the respective ends thereof.Assembly of the step platform deviceIt is now referred to fig. 3, 4 and 5. As mentioned above, the first and second connection elements 30, 40 are pivotably connected to each other by means of a first connection device 15 about a first axis A1.The platform element 52 and the first connection element 30 are pivotably connected to each other about a second axis A2 by means of a second connection device 16. The second connection device 16 is formed by the connectors 56, 36, together with a fastening device 96 (shown in fig. 11).The link element 61 and the second connection element 40 are pivotably connected to each other about a third axis A3 by means of a third connection device 17. The third connection device 17 is formed by the connectors 67, 47, together with a fastening device 97 (shown in fig. 6 and 11).The platform element 52 and the link element 61 are pivotably connected to each other about a fourth axis A4 by means of a fourth connection device 18. The fourth connection device 18 is formed by the connectors 58, 68, together with a fastening device 98 (shown in fig.11). It should be noted that in fig. 11, the fastening device 98 is shown as fastening elements 98a and 98b which will be described in detail below.The first, second, third and fourth axis A1, A2, A3, A4 are provided at a distance from each other both in the open state and in the closed state. Preferably, the distance d1 between the first and second connection devices 15, 16, the distance d2 between the first and third connection devices 15, 17, the distance d3 between the second and fourth connection devices 16, 18 and the distance d4 between the third and fourth connection devices 17, 18 are equal to each other. However, other and different distances are also possible.The link element 61 and the platform element 52 are provided substantially in parallel with each other in the closed state.It is now referred to fig. 6 and 11 again. Due to generally U-shape of the second connection element 40 of the present embodiment, it should be noted that the connection device 17 is formed by two connectors 67 and two connectors 47 provided as holes through the respective sides of the elements 61, 40 where the first fastening device 97 is connecting the connectors 67, 47 to each other while allowing pivotal movement. As shown in fig.6, the third axis A3 is indicated as a center line through the fastening device 97. The fastening devices 97 may be a rivet device, a bolt and nut, or other known fastening devices. Preferably, all fastening devices 95, 96, 97, 98 are of the same type. Accordingly, the connection devices 15, 16, 18 may be provided identical to or similar to the third connection device 17 described above.In fig. 11 it is shown that one of the fastening devices, fastening device 98 comprises a bolt 98a and a nut 98b, which may be connected to each other, for example by a threaded connection or other types of connections.The connection interface 21 is provided below the first connection device 15, while the second and third connection devices 16, 17 are provided above the first connection device 15.In the above embodiments, the connectors 35, 36, 45, 47, 56, 58, 67, 68 are all provided as holes or recesses through the respective elements 30, 40, 52, 61, and where the connection devices 15, 16, 17, 18 are comprising the respective connectors together with fastening devices 95, 96, 97, 98. Alternatively, at least some of the connection devices 15, 16, 17, 18 could be provided as pins fixed between the side walls. Alternatively, at least some of the connectors 35, 36, 45, 47, 56, 58, 67, 68 could be provided as threaded openings, where the fastening devices 95, 96, 97, 98 are connected to these threaded openings.About the operation of the step platform deviceIt is now referred to fig. 3, 4 and 5. In fig. 4, it is shown that the step platform device 10 is configured to be provided in a closed state. In this closed state, the ball connection interface 21 may be connected onto the trailer hitch ball of a vehicle. When connected to the trailer hitch ball, a clamping force is applied by the connection interface 21 around the trailer hitch ball 2. In addition, the lower parts 32, 42 is contributing to prevent undesired movement of the step platform device 10 in relation to the trailer hitch ball 2. If it is assumed that the trailer hitch ball is shaped as a normal or standard trailer hitch ball, there will be no relative movement, or it will only be a small relative movement, between the step platform device 10 and the trailer hitch ball. Hence, when connected to the trailer hitch ball, a person may step onto the top surface 51 to access equipment from the roof of the vehicle. In fig. 5, it is shown that the step platform device 10 is configured to be provided in an open state. In this open state, the ball connection interface 21 may be moved away from the trailer hitch ball 2 and/or to be inserted onto the trailer hitch ball 2. The step platform device 10 is configured to be brought from the closed state to the open state by moving the first and fourth connection devices 15, 18 away from each other, thereby causing the second and third connection devices 16, 17 to move towards each other. The step platform device 10 is configured to be brought from the open state to the closed state by moving the first and fourth connection devices 15, 18 towards each other, thereby causing the second and third connection devices 16, 17 to move away from each other. The person using the device 10 may then use the handle 69 of the link device 60 in the embodiment in fig.4 and 5 or the handle 59 of the platform device 50 in the embodiment of fig.7 and 8.In one embodiment shown in fig. 4, the fourth axis A4 is provided a distance d below a level P for the second and third axis A2, A3 in the closed state, i.e. the center of the fourth connection device 18 is provided at the distance d below a line P between the centers of the second and third connection devices 16, 17. In this way, it is achieved that the step platform device 10 is locked in the closed state, as it will require a force above a certain threshold value to move the fourth connection device 18 from a point below level P to a point above the level P due to the geometry of the step platform device 10.In alternative embodiments, the fourth axis A4 may be provided on the same level P as the second and third axis A2, A3 or even above level P. In such embodiments, there might be a risk that the step platform device 10 may fall off the trailer hitch ball 2 during driving. Hence, such embodiments should be only be used while vehicles are stationary.In yet an alternative, step platform device 10 may comprise a locking device 80 for locking the step platform device 10 in the closed state.It is now referred to fig. 9, 10 and 11. The locking device 80 here comprises a locking element 81 connected to, and axially displaceable in relation to, the link element 61. In fig. 9 and 10, the locking element 81 is provided inside of the square bar forming the link element 61. The locking element 81 comprises an end recess 82 provided in a first end of the locking element 81. The locking device 80 further comprises a locking bolt 86 fixed between the members 52a, 52b of the platform element 52. The locking bolt 86 is adapted to be received in, and to be engaged in, the end recess 82 of the locking element 81, as shown in fig. 9. A second end, opposite of the first end, of the locking element 81 is protruding out from the link element 61, forming an actuating member 85. Hence, starting from fig. 9, a person may use the actuating member 85 and pull it axially (in the direction A) in relation to the link element, i.e. to the right in fig. 9 at least partially out from the link element 61. This will cause the end recess 82 to be pulled away from engagement with the locking bolt 86 and the device 10 is no longer locked. The actuating member 85 may now serve as a handle similar to handle 69 described above. Moving the actuating member 85 downwards will bring the device 10 to its open state as shown in fig.10. The actuating member 85 may again be used to bring the device 10 from the open state in fig. 10 and back to the closed state in fig. 9. In the closed state, by pushing the actuating member 85 into the link element 61, the end recess 82 will be engaged with the locking bolt 86 again and the device 10 is locked.Preferably, the locking element 81 comprises a longitudinal slot 83 for engagement with at least some parts of the third locking device 17, to avoid that the locking element 81 is pulled entirely out from the link element 61. In addition, a spring 84 may be connected between at least some parts of the third locking device 17 and the actuating member 85, causing the locking member 81 to be automatically drawn into the link element 61 if the person releases the actuating member 85. Moreover, the first end of the locking element 81 may be provided with an inclined surface 86. From fig. 10 it is then possible to bring the device 10 to its closed and locked state automatically without using the actuating member 85 only by pressing the platform element 52 downwardly.It should be noted that in fig. 11, the locking bolt 86 is not shown, as it is provided inside the platform element 52, for example welded or fixed by other means between side walls 52a, 52b.Alternative embodimentsSeveral alternative embodiments have been described above. In the embodiments shown in fig. 3 – 6 and fig. 6, 9 and 10, the first connection device 30 is directly connected to the second connection device 40. A further alternative embodiment is disclosed in fig. 8.Here, the trailer hitch ball connection device 20 comprises a third connection element 70, where the third connection element 70 is pivotably connected to the first connection element 30 by means of the first connection device 15 and where the third connection element 70 is rigidly or pivotably connected to the second connection device 40 by means of a fifth connection device 19.It is now referred to fig. 12. This embodiment is a combination of several of the above embodiments, as it has the handle 69 as of the embodiment in fig. 4 and 5 and the third connection element 70 as of the embodiment in fig. 8. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the handle 69 is provided as a grip-friendly element provided outside the link element 61. The grip-friendly element may be made of rubber, plastic or another suitable material.Another difference with the embodiment in fig. 12 is that the first and second subinterfaces 31, 41 are provided as pipe sections fixed to the respective first and second connection elements 30, 40. Recesses 32, 42 may be provided in the pipe sections to adapt the subinterfaces 31, 41 to be clamped to the neck section 4 of the trailer hitch 1. CLAIMS1. Step platform device (10) for connection to a trailer hitch ball (2), characterized in that the step platform device (10) is comprising:- a trailer hitch ball connection device (20) comprising first and second connection elements (30, 40) pivotably connected to each other by means of a first connection device (15) about a first axis (A1); where the trailer hitch ball connection device (20) comprises a ball connection interface (21) comprising a first subinterface (31) provided on the first connection element (30) and a second subinterface (41) provided on the second connection element (40);- a platform device (50) provided above the trailer hitch ball connection device (20); where the platform device (50) comprises an upwardly facing step surface (51) and a platform element (52) provided below the step surface (51);- a link device (60) comprising a link element (61);- where the platform element (52) and the first connection element (30) are pivotably connected to each other about a second axis (A2) by means of a second connection device (16);- where the link element (61) and the second connection element (40) are pivotably connected to each other about a third axis (A3) by means of a third connection device (17);- where the platform element (52) and the link element (61) are pivotably connected to each other about a fourth axis (A4) by means of a fourth connection device (18); where the step platform device (10) is configured to be provided in a closed state and in an open state, where the ball connection interface (21) may be connected onto the trailer hitch ball (2) in the closed state and where the ball connection interface (21) may be moved away from the trailer hitch ball (2) in the open state; where the step platform device (10) is configured to be brought from the closed state to the open state by moving the first and fourth connection devices (15, 18) away from each other, thereby causing the second and third connection devices (16, 17) to move towards each other;where the step platform device (10) is configured to be brought from the open state to the closed state by moving the first and fourth connection devices (15, 18) towards each other, thereby causing the second and third connection devices (16, 17) to move away from each other; where the connection interface (21) is provided below the first connection device (15) and where the second and third connection devices (16, 17) are provided above the first connection device (15).2. Step platform device (10) according to claim 1, where the first, second, third and fourth axis (A1, A2, A3, A4) are provided at a distance from each other both in the open state and in the closed state.3. Step platform device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, where the link element (61) and the platform element (52) are provided substantially in parallel with each other in the closed state.4. Step platform device (10) according to any one of the above claims, where the fourth axis (A4) is provided a distance d below a level P of the second and third axis (A2, A3) in the closed state.5. Step platform device (10) according to any one of the above claims, where the platform element (52) comprises a U-shaped bracket, having two spaced apart side walls (52a, 52b) connected to each other by means of a cross member (52c).6. Step platform device (10) according to any one of the above claims, where the upwardly facing step surface (51) is provided on a top element (54) connected to the platform element (52).7. Step platform device (10) according to claim 86, where the top element (54) comprises a friction reducing layer.8. Step platform device (10) according to claim 86 or 97, where the top element (54) is connected to the platform element (52) via a rigid supporting element (55).9. Step platform device (10) according to any one of claims 1 – 8, where the link device (60) comprises a handle (69) connected to the link element (61).10. Step platform device (10) according to any one of claims 1 –9, where a handle (59) is provided in an end of the platform device (50) being distal to the second connection device (16).11. Step platform device (10) according to any one of the above claims, where the trailer hitch ball connection device (20) comprises a third connection element (70), where the third connection element (70) is pivotably connected to the first connection element (30) by means of the first connection device (15) and where the third connection element (70) is rigidly or pivotably connected to the second connection device (40) by mean of a fifth connection device (19). 12. Step platform device (10) according to any one of the above claims, where the device (10) comprises a locking device (80) for locking the step platform device (10) in the closed state.13. Step platform device (10) according to claim 12, where the locking device (80) comprises:- a locking element (81) connected to, and axially displaceable in relation to, the link element (61), where the locking element (81) comprises an end recess (82); - a locking bolt (86) adapted to be received in the end recess (82) of the locking element (81);where axial displacement of the locking element (81) in relation to the link element (61) in a first direction (A) is moving the end recess (82) out from engagement with the locking bolt (86).
Claims
PATENTKRAV1. Trinnplattformanordning (10) for tilkobling til en trekkrokkule (2), karakterisert ved at trinnplattformanordningen (10) omfatter:- en trekkrokkulekoblingsanordning (20) som omfatter første og andre koblingselementer (30, 40) dreibart forbundet med hverandre ved hjelp av en første koblingsanordning (15) om en første akse (A1); hvor trekkrokkulekoblingsanordningen (20) omfatter et kulekoblingsgrensesnitt (21) som omfatter en første subgrensesnitt (31) tilveiebrakt på det første koblingselementet (30) og et andre subgrensesnitt (41) på det andre koblingselementet (40);- en plattformanordning (50) tilveiebrakt over trekkrokkulekoblingsanordningen (20); hvor plattformanordningen (50) omfatter en oppadvendt trinnflate (51) og et plattformelement (52) som er anordnet under trinnflaten (51);- en leddanordning (60) omfattende et leddelement (61);- hvor plattformelementet (52) og den første koblingselement (30) er dreibart forbundet til hverandre om en andre akse (A2) ved hjelp av en andre koblingsanordning (16);- hvor leddelementet (61) og det andre koblingselementet (40) er dreibart forbundet med hverandre om en tredje akse (A3) ved hjelp av en tredje koblingsanordning (17);- hvor plattformelementet (52) og leddelementet (61) er dreibart forbundet med hverandre om en fjerde akse (A4) ved hjelp av en fjerde koblingsanordning (18);hvor trinnplattformanordningen (10) er konfigurert til å være anordnet i en lukket tilstand og i en åpen tilstand, hvor kulekoblingsgrensesnittet (21) kan være koplet på trekkrokkulen (2) i lukket tilstand og hvor kulekoblingsgrensesnittet (21) kan beveges bort fra trekkrokkulen (2) i åpen tilstand;hvor trinnplattformanordningen (10) er konfigurert for å bli brakt fra lukket tilstand til åpen tilstand ved å bevege de første og fjerde koblingsanordninger (15, 18) bort fra hverandre, for derved å forårsake at de andre og tredje koblingsanordninger (16, 17) beveges mot hverandre;hvor trinnplattformanordningen (10) er konfigurert for å bli brakt fra åpen tilstand til lukket tilstand ved å bevege de første og fjerde koblingsanordninger (15, 18) mot hverandre, for derved å bevirke at de annen og tredje tilkoblingsanordninger (16, 17) beveges bort fra hverandre;hvor koblingsgrensesnittet (21) er anordnet under den første koblingsanordningen (15) og hvor de andre og tredje koblingsanordninger (16, 17) er anordnet over den første koblingsanordningen (15).2. Trinnplattformanordning (10) i henhold til krav 1, hvor den første, andre, tredje og fjerde akse (A1, A2, A3, A4) er anordnet i en avstand fra hverandre både i åpen tilstand og i lukket tilstand.3. Trinnplattformanordning (10) i henhold til krav 1 eller 2, hvor leddelementet (61) og plattformelementet (52) er anordnet i det vesentlige parallelt med hverandre i lukket tilstand.4. Trinnplattformanordning (10) ifølge et hvilket som helst av de ovennevnte krav, hvor den fjerde aksen (A4) er anordnet i en avstand d under et nivå P hos den andre og tredje aksen (A2, A3) i lukket tilstand.5. Trinnplattformanordning (10) ifølge et hvilket som helst av de ovenstående krav, hvor plattformelementet (52) omfatter en U-formet brakett, som har to innbyrdes adskilte sidevegger (52a, 52b) som er koplet til hverandre ved hjelp av et tverrelement (52c).6. Trinnplattformanordning (10) ifølge et hvilket som helst av de ovennevnte krav, hvor den oppadvendte trinnflate (51) er anordnet på et toppelement (54) koplet til plattformelementet (52).7. Trinnplattformanordning (10) ifølge krav 6, hvor toppelementet (54) omfatter et friksjonsreduserende lag.8. Trinnplattformanordning (10) i henhold til krav 6 eller 7, hvor toppelementet (54) er koplet til plattformelementet (52) via et stivt bæreelement (55).9. Trinnplattformanordning (10) ifølge et hvilket som helst av kravene 1 - 8, hvor leddanordningen (60) omfatter et håndtak (69) som er koblet til leddelementet (61).10. Trinnplattformanordning (10) ifølge et hvilket som helst av kravene 1 -9, hvor et håndtak (59) er anordnet i en ende av plattformanordningen (50) som er distal til den andre koblingsanordningen (16).11. Trinnplattformanordning (10) ifølge et hvilket som helst av de foregående krav, hvor trekkrokkulekoblingsanordningen (20) omfatter et tredje koblingselement (70), hvor det tredje koblingselement (70) er dreibart forbundet til det første tilkoblingselement (30) ved hjelp av den første koblingsanordningen (15), og hvor det tredje koblingselementet (70) er fast eller svingbart forbundet til den andre koblingsanordningen (40) ved hjelp av en femte koblingsanordning (19).12. Trinnplattformanordning (10) ifølge et hvilket som helst av de foregående krav, hvor anordningen (10) omfatter en låseanordning (80) for låsing av trinnplattformanordningen (10) i lukket tilstand.13. Trinnplattformanordning (10) i henhold til krav 12, hvor låseanordningen (80) omfatter:- et låseelement (81) forbundet til, og aksialt forskyvbart i forhold til, leddelement (61), hvor låseelementet (81) omfatter en endeutsparing (82);- en låsebolt (86) som er innrettet til å bli mottatt i endeutsparingen (82) hos låseelementet (81);hvor aksialforskyvning av låseelementet (81) i forhold til leddelementet (61) i en første retning (A) fører til bevegelse av endeutsparingen (82) ut av inngrep med låsebolten (86).
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Patent classes

IPC classesB60R 3/00CPC classesB60R 3/007B60R 3/00

Citations

US 2008/0042394 A1 (A1)US 2009/0243249 A1 (A1)US 2009/0045604 A1 (A1)US 2013/0270791 A1 (A1)

Applicants, owners and inventors

Owners
OLE BAKMARK
Torasvei 20 9022 KROKELVDALEN NO (TROMSØ Municipality, Troms county)Org. number: 916242131Inventors
Ole Johan Bakmark
Torasvei 20 9022 KROKELVDALEN NO (TROMSØ Municipality, Troms county)

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ACAPO ONSAGERS AS
ACAPO ONSAGERS AS

Org. number: 932214636

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Edvard Griegs vei 1 5059 BERGEN NO (BERGEN Municipality, Vestland county)
Org. number: 932214636
Reference: P24734NO00

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