Self propelled transport device

A transport device has a chassis with a front end and a rear end. The device has a continuous track supporting the chassis above a surface configured to move the chassis along the surface. A handle extends from the front end or rear end of the chassis and has a grip section positioned to be gripped by a user walking ahead of or behind the chassis. A motor is coupled and arranged to drive the continuous track and is operable by a user manipulating the handle. The worktop can be reconfigurable to at least two optional arrangements having different storage or support capabilities. The worktop can also be interchangeable with other different worktops having different storage or support capabilities.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Disclosure

The present invention is generally directed to carts or wagons for transporting articles, and more particularly to a self-propelled or motorized transport device with tracks.

2. Description of Related Art

Many different types of carts, dollies, wagons, and the like are known in the art for transporting goods, objects, and articles of manufacture. Many of these types of products are intended for use only on hard, flat, relatively smooth surfaces. Several producers of such devices have attempted to provide a device that can be maneuvered over sand or other difficult terrain to transport articles and objects. However, these devices are typically difficult to maneuver. In addition, such devices are typically not self-propelled, but instead are intended to be manually propelled, i.e., pushed or pulled by a user over the sand or other terrain. This can make it especially difficult for a user to maneuver the transport device over difficult or rough terrain, including dirt, rocks, uneven terrain, snow, and mud, as well as sand.

Larger vehicles, such as those designed and used for military purposes are known to employ continuous tracks for transporting people and heavy-duty cargo. Tracks are typically used when the vehicle is intended to or expected to run over difficult terrain. Half-tracks and tanks are just to such examples. Smaller vehicles, such as snowmobiles, are also known in the art that utilize a track to propel the vehicle over difficult terrain. However, these types of vehicles are typically not suited for transporting articles or objects, but instead are designed to transport a person or multiple people over such a surface while sitting on the vehicle.

Many types of carts or wagons are also known and utilized to transport bulk and/or heavy-duty items. Many of these types of transport devices use wheels and are manually propelled and are typically designed for use on smooth surfaces. Some are self propelled but are also intended for use over flat, hard ground. Examples of these types of vehicles and devices include dollies, lifts, wheelbarrows, shopping carts, and the like. These types of devices are not typically easy for an individual to maneuver over rough or difficult terrain and are particularly unsuited for transporting objects or articles over sand. These types of carts, dollies, wagons, and the like are also typically designed for a specific purpose and are not well-designed or well suited for alternate purposes.

SUMMARY

In one example according to the teachings of the present invention, a transport device has a chassis with a front end and a rear end. A continuous track supports the chassis above a surface and can selectively move the chassis along the surface. A handle extends from the front end or the rear end of the chassis and has a grip section positioned to be gripped by a user walking ahead of or behind the chassis, respectively. A motor is coupled and arranged to drive the continuous track and is operable by a user manipulating the handle.

In one example, the handle extends rearward from the rear end and can be pushed forward to operate the motor to move the transport device forward and can be pulled rearward to operate the motor to move the transport device rearward.

In one example, the chassis can be configured to removably accept a plurality of optionally different worktops thereon.

In one example, the worktop can be a wheelbarrow tub.

In one example, the worktop can have a work surface thereon. The work surface can be pivotally connected to and tiltable forward about the front end of the chassis.

In one example, the worktop can have a multilevel storage surface thereon.

In one example, the worktop can define a storage surface thereon. A pair of side rails can extend along opposed sides of the storage surface.

In one example, the worktop can have a pair of side rails along sides of thereof. The side rails can be removable from the transport device.

In one example, the worktop can have a pair of side rails along sides of thereof. The side rails can be pivoted inward and downward onto the worktop or outward and downward along opposed sides of the chassis or both.

In one example, the transport device can have two of the tracks, one arranged adjacent each side of the chassis.

In one example, the transport device can have two pairs of wheels. Each pair of wheels can have a front and a back wheel for driving a respective one of the two tracks. Each wheel can have an outer rim section fastened to and removable from an inner rim section.

In one example, the transport device can have two pairs of wheels. Each pair of wheels can have a front and a back wheel for driving a respective one of the two tracks. Each wheel can have an outer rim section fastened to and removable from an inner rim section. The inner and outer rim sections can each have an annular rim flange. A track can be captured between the rim flanges of the inner and outer rim sections of the front and back wheel of each pair of wheels.

In one example, the grip section of the handle can include a trigger actuable to select and change the speed of the motor.

In one example, the grip section of the handle can have an actuator that can be actuated to select and change the motor direction between a forward direction and a reverse direction.

In one example, the handle can be collapsed down onto the worktop.

In one example, the chassis can be a modular structure configured to removably support any selected one of a plurality of optional worktops thereon.

In one example, the transport device can be a modular structure configured to removably support any selected one of a plurality of optional worktops thereon. The plurality of optional worktops can include a tub-shaped container, a multilevel storage surface, a generally planar platform, a reconfigurable storage surface, a multi-compartment storage box, a seat, a large covered storage container, a tiltable platform, a removable platform, and/or a cooler or insulated container.

In one example, the front end of the chassis can have a generally vertical barrier. The barrier can be adjustably moved toward and away from the front end to extend a storage capacity of at least part of the worktop.

In one example, the worktop can have an insulated chamber built into a portion of the chassis.

In one example, the motor is an electric motor coupled to a battery that can be recharged by a solar panel removably carried on part of the transport device.

In one example according to the teachings of the present invention, a transport device has a chassis with a front end, a rear end, and a worktop surface. Continuous tracks support the chassis above a surface, are routed around a plurality of wheels, and are configured to propel the chassis along the surface. A handle extends rearward from the rear end of the chassis and has a grip portion positioned for an operator to walk behind the chassis. An electric motor is carried by the chassis and is arranged to drive the wheels and continuous tracks. The worktop surface is reconfigurable to at least two optional arrangements having different storage or support capabilities.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present invention is directed to a self-propelled transport device that is particularly well suited to transport objects, articles, materials, and the like over difficult terrain such as sand, rocks, dirt, mud, snow, and other uneven, soft surfaces. In one example, the disclosed transport device has a chassis with a worktop that can be reconfigured between two or more different arrangements or swapped out for another different type of worktop. In one example, the disclosed transport device utilizes tracks driven by wheels whereby the device can easily move over difficult terrain. In one example, the disclosed transport device has a handle whereby an operator can stand behind the device and easily maneuver the device via the handle. In one example, the disclosed transport device has a motor that drives the wheels and tracks requiring little effort on the part of the operator to propel the transport device over any terrain. The disclosed self propelled transport devices solve or improve upon one or more of the above-noted and/or other problems and disadvantages with prior known carts, wagons, dollies, and other such article movers and devices. The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art upon reading this disclosure.

Turning now to the drawings,FIGS. 1-7illustrate various views of a self-propelled transport device50constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. In the disclosed example, the transport device50generally has a chassis52with a pair of continuous tracks54supporting the chassis above a surface. The continuous tracks54are positioned along opposed sides56of the chassis52. Though two tracks are shown, it is conceivable that the transport device could be provided with a single track or more than two tracks, if desired. The chassis generally has a front end58, a rear end60, and a worktop62. A handle assembly64extends upward and rearward from the rear end58and is used to operate and maneuver the transport device50. Details of the various features of the transport device50can vary within the spirit and scope of the present invention, as will become evident to those having ordinary skill in the art upon reading this disclosure and as is described below. For example, the worktop62is shown as a separate structure herein. However, the worktop could be provided as an integral part of the chassis or other frame structure of the transport device, if desired.

FIG. 2shows an exploded view of the transport device50depicted inFIG. 1. In the disclosed example, the chassis52has a tub-shaped body70with a closed bottom72, elongate and somewhat upright side panels74, a front panel76, and a rear panel78. The top of the body70is open in this example. The front and rear panels76and78have a central scalloped region79in this example at about a midpoint between the side panels74. A pair of axle struts80protrudes outward from each of the side panels74, one strut near the front end58and one strut near the rear end60on each side56of the body70.

In the disclosed example, the worktop62is a multi-level platform with a lower elevation, central trough or surface82and a pair of elevated surfaces84that flank the trough. A pair of transition walls86extends between the trough surface82and the elevated surfaces84. In this example, the transition walls86are angled or drafted outward, as are the side panels74of the body70, moving up from the trough82to the elevated surfaces84. The scalloped regions79in the front and rear panels76,78are configured to accommodate the shape of the worktop62. The worktop62is mounted to the body70, closing off the open top of the body. The worktop62can be secured using any suitable means such as fasteners, clamps, snaps, detents, welds, clasps, latches, or the like.

As is discussed in greater detail below, and as will become evident to those having ordinary skill in the art upon reading this disclosure, the worktop62can vary considerably within the spirit and scope of the present invention. In one simple example, the orientation of the worktop62can be rotated 90° so that the central trough surface82extends laterally or side to side relative to the transport device50instead of lengthwise as shown herein. In such an example, the orientation of the elevated surfaces84would also be side to side defining a front elevated surface and a back elevated surface instead of a pair of side elevated surfaces84as shown.

In the disclosed example, the chassis52includes a pair of side rail mounts or brackets90. One of the brackets90is mounted to the worktop62on each corresponding one of the elevated surfaces84. An inverted U-shaped side rail92is coupled to each of the brackets90in this example. The side rails in this example have a pair of depending legs87and a cross-bar89extending between the legs. The free bottom ends of the legs can have pivot88, such as protruding pins, stubs, or the like. The pivots88can attach to the mounts90so that the rails can be pivotally movable relative to the mounts. The mounts or brackets90can be integrally formed as part of the worktop62or can be separately manufactured and removably or permanently attached to the worktop, as desired. The side rails can be steel, aluminum, plastic, wood, composite, a combination of said materials, or the like and can be planar, solid, hollow, tubular, or the like. The configuration and construction of the mounts90, as well as the side rails92can vary within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Referring again toFIGS. 1-7, the handle assembly64is coupled to a pivot housing94. The pivot housing94is mounted to the trough surface82at the rear end60on the chassis52. The pivot housing94has a pair of guide slots96in its top, curved surface. The handle assembly64also has a pair of elongate frame arms98and a grip section100coupled to the distal ends of the frame arms. The proximal ends of the frame arms98are seated in the guide slots96and pivotally connected to the pivot housing64for reasons discussed below.

In the disclosed example, the grip section100of the handle assembly64has a pair of grips102projecting in opposite directions, giving the handle assembly a somewhat T-shaped configuration. The shape and configuration of the handle assembly can vary from this example. The frame arms98are spaced apart laterally from one another. A solar panel104is mounted to and between the frame arms98near the grip section100. The solar panel104can have one or more clips105or other connectors to removably attach the panel to the frame arms98of the handle assembly64. The solar panel104is an optional feature and is discussed in greater detail below. A motor control housing106is also mounted to the distal ends of the frame arms98on the handle assembly64. The motor control housing106houses components that are utilized to assist in operating transport device as described below. The motor control housing106can also include one or more storage compartments for storing smaller personal items, such as keys, wallets, cell phones, MP3 devices, cameras, and the like.

The chassis52in the disclosed example has a front barrier110or bumper. In this example, the front barrier110has a transverse rail112similar to the side rails92. The rail112extends across the front end of the chassis52and is positioned above the level of the trough surface82and can act as a barrier wall to close the open front of the chassis. Again, the front barrier110can vary in configuration and construction from the example shown and described him. The barrier can be an integral part of the chassis52or the worktop62, or can be another structure attached or connected to either one of those components.

With reference toFIGS. 1-3, the tracks54are continuous loops of material, such as rubber or reinforced rubber. A plurality of treads120extend laterally across the width of each track. The treads120are provided on the outer facing surface122of each track and are configured to contact the surface on which the transport device rests. The inside surfaces124of the tracks also include a plurality of transverse ribs126. Each side of the chassis52has a pair of wheels including a front wheel128and a rear wheel130. The front wheels128of the transport device50are connected to one another by a front axle132. Likewise, the rear wheels130are connected to one another by a rear axle134. The axles extend across the chassis body and extend through the respective front and rear axle struts76,78.

Returning toFIG. 2, each of the wheels126and128has the same construction in this example. Each of the wheels126and128has a split rim. Each rim has an inner rim section136and an outer rim section138. In the disclosed example, the rim sections136and138are also entirely identical to and interchangeable with one another. Each of the rim sections as an annular rim flange140extending around and radially outward from the outer side of the rim. The tracks54are captured between the rim flanges140on each wheel128,130. The rim sections136and138can be separated from one another or fastened to one another using conventional fasteners. When the rims are disassembled, the tracks can be easily removed upon removing the outer rim sections138on each of the wheels. The exposed circumferential surfaces of the assembled rims include a plurality of transverse grooves142spaced circumferentially around the rim. The ribs126on the inside surfaces124of the tracks54seat in the grooves142, coupling the wheels and tracks. The tracks54are thus prevented from slipping relative to the wheels128,130during use of the transport device50.

With reference toFIGS. 5 and 6, the rear panel78on the chassis body70has a motor control switch150. In this example, the switch150is rotatable and used to operate a motor152shown schematically inFIG. 6. The switch can operate a gearbox or transmission (not shown) of the motor152between a drive D position and a neutral N position. In the drive D position, the motor152will drive the rear axle134, which in turn rotates the rear wheels130to drive the tracks54. In the neutral N position, the switch disengages the motor152or gearbox from the rear axle134. The device50can be configured so as to be easily movable by a user with the motor off and the switch in the N position. The motor can be coupled to both the front axle132and rear axle134, or to only the front axle132in alternate embodiments.

As shown, the motor152is housed in this example within the chassis52between the worktop62and the closed bottom72. A motor chamber or well can be provided within the chassis to protect the motor152, if desired. The motor152can take on any number of configurations and constructions and yet fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention. In one example, the motor152is an electric motor that operates on a rechargeable battery system. A battery154can be provided as the source of power. However, the motor can alternatively be of a type to run on other energy sources such as natural gas, propane, diesel fuel, refined fuel, kerosene, cooking oil, or the like. In the disclosed example, the electric motor152is run on a battery system and the battery154can be rechargeable using any suitable source. In one example, the battery154can be rechargeable using multiple different optional power sources such as the solar panel104noted above, a 12V car battery and adaptor cord, or an alternating current charger and cord. In one example, the motor controller106can include a plurality of optional jacks156that can connect to one or more of these energy sources. The jacks can be provided on the motor control housing106, if desired, or on some other part of the device50closer to the motor or more convenient for the user. Additional jacks (not shown) can be provided to connect, operate, and recharge personal electronic devices, such as cell phones, CD players, DVD players, radios, MP3 players, and the like. Wiring can be routed through the frame arms98of the handle assembly64between the motor control housing106and motor152and battery154to connect and operate the various electronic components, features, options, and accessories of the transport device50.

In one example, the motor154can be an electric 2-speed motor or a variable speed motor and can have a forward direction and reverse direction. The motor154can be configured to have a maximum speed that matches a fast walking pace of an average person, such as about 5 mph. As shown inFIGS. 1-6, a trigger158can be provided on part of the handle assembly64, such as on one of the grips102of the grip section100. The trigger158can be squeezed inward by an operator while manipulating the handle assembly64in order to turn the motor on and to variably change speeds or to switch between two or more speed options. Optionally, a separate on/off switch could be used in conjunction with an accelerator trigger. As shown inFIGS. 5 and 6, the grip section100of the handle assembly64can also include an actuator160, such as directly between the grips102on the top of the motor control housing106. The actuator160can be actuated by a user to select a forward or reverse travel direction or to switch between the two directions. In one example, the actuator160can be a flip switch that pushes forward to move the transport device50forward and that flips rearward to move the transport device rearward. See the arrows FA and RA inFIG. 3. In an alternate example, the entire handle assembly64, inclusive of part of the pivot housing94can be coupled to the motor154and configured so that pushing the handle assembly forward drives the motor in a forward direction and pulling the handle assembly reverses the motor direction. See the arrows FH and RH inFIG. 3.

In one example, the two tracks of the transport device50will always move at the same speed. The device50can be steered simply by the user maneuvering the device using the handle in a desired direction. The device can be turned by overcoming friction between the surface and the tracks. Thus, turning the device will impart some minor track “scrubbing” where the inside track will have to release or the outside track will have to catch up, since the tracks move at the same speed. In another example, one or both of the tracks can have a variable speed capability to slow or speed up one track relative to the other for turning. Such capability would require two motors, speed sensors, speed controls, turning sensors, and/or the like. In another example, one or both of the tracks, axles, or wheel rims can employ some type of clutch to allow slight one of the tracks to slip relative to the other during a turn.

FIGS. 2,9, and10show that the front barrier110can be optionally adjustable relative to the front end58of the chassis52. In this example, the barrier110has a pair of depending legs162and extended down from the rail112. The barrier110also has a pair of elongate, rearward extending parallel slide bars164. The slide bars164are received in apertures166formed in the front panel76on the body70. As shown inFIG. 9, the slide bars164of the barrier110can be slid or retracted into the body70so that the rail112is adjacent the worktop62. As shown inFIG. 10, the barrier110can be slid outward or extended away from the front end58. In the extended position, the slide bars164can create an extended support, platform, or storage surface. The adjustable barrier110thus creates an expandable, reconfigurable worktop arrangement. When the barrier110is extended, objects and items can be stored between the rail112and the front panel76on the body70, resting on the slide bars164. For example, a beach cooler168can be stored on the extended barrier110as shown inFIG. 10.

FIGS. 1,11, and12show that the transport device50can be at least a partially collapsible or foldable structure. When in use, the various components of the device can be deployed as needed. When the transport device50is not to be used and is to be transported to another location or stowed away, the device may be folded or collapsed to a smaller or more compact configuration. In this example, the side rails92have depending legs169pivotally coupled to the mounts or brackets90. The side rails92can be folded or collapsed inward from their deployed orientation ofFIG. 1toward or onto the worktop62as depicted inFIG. 11. Also in this example, the handle assembly64can fold from the in-use arrangement depicted inFIG. 1to a folded or collapsed configuration depicted inFIG. 12. The frame arms98can pivot about their proximal ends on the pivot housing94and along the slots96therein. Alternatively, the handle assembly64could include a joint somewhere along the frame arms98so that the handle assembly can fold in half and then collapse onto the worktop62. Also, the side rails92can be removable from the chassis52or worktop62and stowed or stored in the central trough82. Alternatively, the side rails92can fold or collapse outward and downward adjacent in the side panels74of the body70, if desired.

As noted above, the transport device50can vary considerably within the spirit and scope of the present invention. In one example, the worktop62can employ different contours, compartments, storage features, and the like.FIGS. 13 and 14illustrate one alternate example of a worktop170. In this example, the worktop170has transition walls172extending between elevated support surfaces174and a lower elevation trough surface176similar to the prior example. However, in this example, inner regions178of the transition walls172have a wall surface177of a much steeper angle or smaller draft angle than the surrounding portions of the transition walls172. The width-wise transition between the inner regions of one draft angle and the outer transition walls172of a different draft angle will create corners179. The wall surfaces177at the inner regions178and the corners179create a box-like receptacle within the worktop170configured to receive a box shaped object, such as a cooler or the like. The object will be captured and retained in position on the worktop within these inner regions178while being transported on the transport device50.

FIGS. 13 and 14also illustrate an alternate example of a side rail180connected directly to the worktop170instead of to separate mounting brackets as in the prior example. With reference toFIG. 15, the side rails180can be removable from the worktop170, as noted above. Removing the side rails180can present a larger available storage platform created by the elevated surfaces174of the worktop, unencumbered by the side rails. The side rails180can also be removed for storage when not in use.

Further, an alternate solar panel182is depicted inFIGS. 13 and 14. The solar panel182has a tri-fold configuration with three separate solar collectors183hinged to one another. The panel182can be opened when needed to collect solar energy and can be folded up when not needed. The other side of the panel182opposite the collectors183can include a hard outer shell to protect the collectors when not in use. The solar panel182can be stored on the transport device50when not in use or can be stored remotely, if desired.

FIGS. 13 and 14also illustrate optional supplemental storage receptacles184that are mounted to and between the frame arms98of the handle assembly64. These storage receptacles can be in the form of fabric or mesh bags or wire receptacles removably secured to the handle assembly64. Smaller personal items can be stored in these storage receptacles184instead of on the larger worktop170in order to protect them from damage and to keep them close at hand. The receptacles can be removable so that a user can carry the receptacles with them when away from the device50. The receptacles can also be configured with an open top and a single elongate chamber along the handle to store longer objects such as umbrellas, tools, a rifle for hunting, or the like.

FIG. 16illustrates one of many possible alternate examples of a transport device190constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. In this example, the transport device190has a chassis192with an integral worktop defined by the chassis or body shape. A plurality of a side rails194are permanently attached to the worktop of the chassis192. Such a device could be utilized in airports, bus stations, hotels, spas, fitness centers, or the like for collecting and transporting bags from one location to another. In an alternate example, the previously described transport device50could utilize a removable, modular worktop configured like the one on the chassis192, converting the storage arrangement of the prior describe device50for a different use.

FIG. 17shows another possible alternate example of a transport device200constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. In this example, the transport device200has a chassis202with an upstanding frame structure204supporting a seat206on the worktop. The seat206can be configured as a safety seat or a simple shopping cart-style seat for a child or an infant as depicted. This type of transport device200could be utilized in malls, museums, or the like for maintaining control of a child wile perusing such a large environment. The worktop of the transport device200in this example can include supplemental storage capacity defined by the chassis202, the worktop, and/or the frame structure204. Thus, the seat206can be occupied by a child while the supplemental storage capacity can be filled with coats, shopping bags, or the like during use of the device.

FIG. 18shows yet another possible alternate example of a transport device210constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. In this example, the transport device210has a generally large, flat platform212as the worktop on top of the chassis214. The platform212is surrounded by upstanding, solid wood side rails216. This type of transport device210could be utilized in garden centers or at home for gardening, small construction projects, and the like. The transport device210in this example is also illustrated with an alternate handle assembly218. The handle assembly218has a pair of spaced apart frame arms220coupled to a cross-bar style handle222extending between the distal ends of the frame arms220. A grip section224is provided near the middle of the cross-bar handle222. Supplemental storage capacity is provided in this alternate example by saddlebag storage receptacles226. The storage receptacles226have hangers228that can hang over the side rails. The receptacles can be used for storing smaller items such as tools, seeds, and the like away from the platform.

FIGS. 19-21show still another alternate example of a transport device230constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. In this example, the transport device230as a versatile, convertible worktop232supported on a wide chassis234. In this example, side rails236are removable from the chassis. The side rails236have projections242on the bottom edge that drop into receptacles244on the top of the worktop. The worktop232has a removable platform238with side edges248. The platform238can be installed on the worktop232to provide an elevated storage surface as shown inFIG. 20over the chassis. The platform238can be removed as inFIG. 19to expose a larger storage cavity or bed241with high surrounding side walls239, similar to a pickup bed. Tracks246can be provided in the side walls239of the bed241. The edges248of the platform238can be slipped into the tracks to install the platform and slid from the tracks to remove the platform. The platform can also include a handle249, such as an elongate opening near one end to assist in installing, removing, and lifting the platform238. The bed241or the platform238can be utilized to carry abundant, large objects as inFIG. 20. This type of transport device230may be well suited for construction type work.

In one alternate example, the platform238can have a separate foot section240at one end that can be pivotally adjusted relative to the main platform238. The platform238can be reconfigured with the foot section240at a right angle to the main platform as shown inFIG. 21to create a dolly-like support. The platform can be mounted to the chassis in an angled or elevated position or can be pivotable about the chassis as inFIG. 21to a raised position as shown. This configuration can be used to transport tall, heavy objects on the foot section240, leaning against the platform238. In such an example, the platform238and foot section240can be arranged parallel to one another as inFIG. 19whereby the platform can be tilted up in order to dump contents stored on its surface.

FIGS. 22 and 23illustrate yet another alternate example of a transport device250constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. In this example, the transport device250has a chassis252supporting a worktop in the form of a wheelbarrow tub254. The wheelbarrow tub254can be formed as part of the chassis252, can be a removable element exposing a different worktop surface when removed, or can be a modular worktop that can be swapped out for other worktop structures as disclosed in described herein. A clear plastic liner256having the same tub shape as the wheelbarrow can be inserted into the tub254to protect the surfaces of the tub, if desired. A supplemental storage caddy258is also shown. The caddy258can be configured to catch and rest on the top edge260of the wheelbarrow tub254. The caddy258can be formed having a number of storage receptacles262therein for storing smaller items during use of the transport device250. The storage caddy258can vary in configuration and construction, as can the wheelbarrow tub254.FIG. 23shows that the wheelbarrow tub254can optionally be pivotable about a forward end264of the chassis252so that material can be readily dumped from the tub without having to lift the entire transport device250. Hydraulic assist can be provided in the form of hydraulic cylinders266to help raise and lower the wheelbarrow tub during use.FIG. 22shows that the transport device250can have a tow hook or loop268at one end so that the device can be towed if needed.

The various features and options disclosed one each of the different transport device examples herein can in many cases be employed on the other disclosed devices. Other optional features, options, storage accessories, secondary storage containers, and the like can also be provided though not shown or described herein. A cooler or insulated container can be integrally built into a worktop of the devices. A fan or chilling unit can be provided within the unit to move air inside such a container, if desired. Hangers, hooks, connectors, loops, and the like can also be employed, added on, or integrally formed as a part of any one of the disclosed devices and on virtually any part of the devices. In one example, bungee cord hooks or catches270can be provided on the worktop, such as is shown inFIG. 1at the corners of the worktop62. Bungees can be easily attached to the worktop to help secure objects being transported thereon, if desired. Many other optional features and options are also possible. Catches or connectors for securing tie downs or netting can also be provided.

The various chassis, worktop, handle, wheel, and track components can be constructed of virtually any suitable or desired materials. The parts can in many cases be designed to snap together or to easily fasten together using conventional fasteners. The wheel rim sections can be bolded together, for example. It is foreseeable that the tracks may need to be serviced from time to time, and thus can be readily and easily removable by detaching the outer rim sections. Many of the components can also be integrally formed as part of another component on a device, if desired. Plastic or composite materials can be used to fabricate many of the components, rendering the transport devices durable, lightweight, easy to manufacture, and easy to assembly. Metal can certainly be used if and where desired. For instance, the body70can be a stamped tub, while the wheels and worktop can be plastic. The wheels can be aluminum or other types of metal as well. The tracks could be rubber, metal. And rubber assemblies, plastic, or the like. The rails110and92can be tubes of metal, solid plastic, hollow plastic, wood, or the like.

The disclosed transport devices are each motorized and thus self propelled. The user can control operation of the motor to move the device and any items carried on the worktop to a desired location. The handle allows a user to walk behind the device during use, which will render it very easy to transport goods using the device. The tracks allow the transport devices disclosed herein to operate on virtually any terrain including sand, rocks, uneven earth, dirt, mud, snow, gravel, and the like. The disclosed transport devices are a significant improvement over prior known carts, dollies, wagons, and the like. The disclosed devices can be modular in nature, allowing a basic chassis structure to accommodate a variety of different worktops, if desired. One worktop with one storage or loading arrangement can be swapped for another with a completely different storage arrangement. The transport devices can be configured to accommodate many different uses and can be used to transport objects to the beach, in picnic areas, in the woods, and the like. The transport devices can be configured for recreational purposes such as vacationing or shopping, or configured for work sue such as gardening, construction, and the like. The disclosed devices can be modular in nature or have a dedicated configuration. In either case, the devices can be used to transport virtually any objects such as lumber, bricks, chairs, coolers, tools, luggage, shopping bags, and the like.

The worktop62has a multilevel surface that is versatile for storing large heavy items on the trough surface and lighter, smaller items on the elevated surface. The side rails can be high enough to extend the storage capacity of the device and can be angled outward as well for the same purpose. Accessory storage compartments and bags can also be provided on the device. These bags or compartments may also be removable, if desired to be taken away by a user when away from the device.

The handle assembly and side rails, as well and the front barrier can employ latches, detents, interlocks, Valco-ball catches, or locking mechanisms to hold them in a desired in-use, collapsed, extended, or retracted position. The mechanisms and components for such latches, detents, and locks can vary.

Although certain transport devices, components and features have been described herein in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure, the scope of coverage of this patent is not limited thereto. On the contrary, this patent covers all embodiments of the teachings of the disclosure that fairly fall within the scope of permissible equivalents.