Dolly for attachment to a vehicle hitch

A dolly for attachment to a vehicle hitch is disclosed. The dolly includes a connection assembly for connecting and disconnecting the dolly to the vehicle hitch. The connection assembly also allows to position the dolly from a ramp position in which the support surface is inclined, to a loading position in which the support surface is raised and parallel to the ground, for loading the object from the dolly to the vehicle. The connection assembly also allows to position the dolly from the loading position to a transport position. In the transport position, the support surface is upright and extends along the rear of the vehicle, for transporting the dolly with the vehicle, once the object has been loaded in the vehicle. A method of operating the dolly is also provided.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The technical field generally relates to dollies and cargo platforms. In particular, it relates to a dolly for attachment to a vehicle hitch.

BACKGROUND

Transporting large objects can be facilitated with the use dollies, trailers or hand carts, which can provide mechanical leverage to a user for manipulating such objects. A dolly typically consists of a frame with wheels provided at one end thereof and mounted on an axle such that when the dolly is lifted or tilted at the other end by the user it may be carted about, with the weight of the load being borne by the wheels. Once so tilted, the dolly can then be rolled about with the object supported thereon, such that the object can be moved with significantly less effort required from the user.

For transporting large objects over a greater distance, a personal vehicle, such as an automobile, is often employed. For example, a large object can be loaded from the dolly into the trunk or the cabin of the automobile which is then driven to a destination where the object is unloaded.

However, one drawback with moving large objects with the assistance of automobiles, is that while the dolly may be used to move the object to a position adjacent to the automobile before it is loaded, due to the limited cargo space of the automobile, the dolly itself cannot be easily transported along with the object for subsequent use after the automobile has reached its ultimate destination. The automobile may not be sufficiently spacious to accommodate both the object to be transported and the dolly in the cargo space of the trunk or the cabin of the vehicle. In some cases, the object's dimensions are such that it cannot pass through the frame of the vehicle and into such cargo spaces. This scenario is especially prevalent with compact vehicles where space within is often limited since the vehicle is specifically designed not to have large cargo areas.

Additionally, when using a dolly to move the object into a position adjacent to the car prior to loading, the dolly cannot assist the user with vertical displacement of the object to a height at which the object can be loaded into the vehicle, in other words, the user must bear the full burden of any required lifting of the object. Furthermore, some objects may be awkward to load into the cabin or truck due to, for example, an object closely matching the dimension of the entranceway to the cabin or the trunk.

There exists in the prior art, cargo platforms which can be retrofitted to an automobile via a standard trailer hitch to provide a convenient cargo zone, exterior to the automobile, upon which an object can be placed, secured, and transported.

Such prior art hitch mounted platforms are positioned lower to the ground compared to a trunk, but still require the user to lift the large object to a certain height, which often places stress on the user's body, for example on the user's back. Even if such platforms are lower to the ground compared to a standard trunk, it may still be difficult to transfer the object from the dolly to the platform, especially if the object is heavy, awkward to handle, and/or if the user is of limited physical ability. Furthermore, another drawback of such prior art cargo platforms is that they are limited in size and may not be able to accommodate both the object to be transported as well as the dolly used to bring the object to a position adjacent to the platform for subsequent use after the vehicle has reached its destination.

There is therefore a need for a dolly able to overcome at least some of the shortcomings of the prior art.

SUMMARY

According to an aspect, a dolly for attachment to a vehicle hitch is provided. The dolly comprises a support assembly including a support surface, the support assembly comprising two ends and two lateral sides. The dolly also comprises at least one wheel operatively connected or provided near one of the ends of the support assembly. The dolly can also comprise or be used in combination with a connection assembly which includes a dolly component and a hitch component. The hitch component has one end connectable to the vehicle hitch and a second end removably engageable with the dolly component. The dolly component is operatively connected to the support assembly. The connection assembly allows, when the dolly and hitch components are engaged, and the hitch component is connected to the vehicle hitch, to move the dolly in different positions. The dolly can be moved between a ramp position and a loading position, and also from the loading position to a transport position. In the ramp position, the support surface is inclined relative to the ground, while in the loading position, the support surface is parallel and raised above the ground. In the transport position, the support surface extends vertically relative to the ground, for transporting the dolly.

In some embodiments, movement of the dolly from the ramp position to the loading position is a pivoting movement about a first axis which extends along a length of the vehicle. Movement of the dolly from the loading position to the transport position may also be a rotational movement about a second axis which extends along a width of the vehicle.

Preferably, the connection assembly comprises locking mechanism for locking the dolly in the loading position and in the transport position.

In some embodiments, the dolly component comprises a projection extending from one the lateral sides of the support assembly. The second end of the hitch assembly, which is removably engageable with the dolly component, may include two segments at angle: a first and a second segments. The first and second segments are preferably at right angle from one another. The first segment extends parallel to the ground when the first end of the hitch assembly is connected to the hitch, and the projection is securable to the first section when the dolly is in the loading position. The second segment extends perpendicular to the ground when the first end of the hitch assembly is connected to the hitch, and the projection is securable to the second segment when the dolly is in the transport position.

In a possible embodiment, the projection may be provided with a projection groove. In this case, the connection assembly may include a rotation pin insertable through the projection groove, to guide rotation of the projection when moving the dolly between the loading and the transport position. It is also possible to provide a locking pin, insertable to the projection groove, to secure the projection to the first segment or the second segment, depending on whether the dolly is in the loading position or in the transport position.

In some embodiment, an anti-tilting bar to restrict rotational movement of the dolly about the axis of the projection in one direction can be provided.

In some possible embodiments, connection assembly may include a latch and catch assembly. In this case, the dolly component of the connection assembly corresponds to a catch assembly, operatively secured to the support assembly. The catch assembly may comprise a projection defining a projection axis. The hitch component of the connection assembly corresponds to a latch assembly. The latch assembly comprises a first end connectable to the vehicle hitch and a second end, configured to removably latch onto the catch assembly and allow pivoting or rotational movement of the dolly via the projection. The latch assembly may include a clamp engageable with the catch assembly, the clamp comprising a locking mechanism configured to secure the projection within the latch assembly.

In some embodiments, the support assembly may comprise at least one barrier or wall(s) for confining the object to the support surface. The at least one upstanding barrier may be collapsible onto the support surface, such that the dolly be configurable between a deployed configuration wherein the at least one upstanding barrier is raised, and a collapsed configuration, wherein the at least one upstanding barrier is lowered on the support surface.

Optionally, the at least one wheel is part of a wheel assembly, which is configurable between a rolling position and a stored position. In the rolling position, the wheel axis preferably extends parallel to the support surface, and in the stored position, the wheel axis preferably extends perpendicular to the support surface.

In some embodiments, the dolly may include two wheels. The dolly may also include two wheel shafts, which are pivotable relative to the lateral sides of the support assembly. Each wheel shaft may include a handle at a first end thereof and one of said two wheels at a second end thereof, the wheel shafts being pivotable between an operating position in which the handle and wheel extend away from the support surface, and a collapsed position in which the wheel and handle lie flat along the support surface.

In other embodiments, the dolly may include four wheels. The dolly may include two wheel-shafts pivotally secured on the support assembly, each wheel shaft comprising a pair of wheels, the wheel shafts being pivotable between an operating position in which the pair of wheels extend away from the support surface, and a collapsed position in which the pair of wheels lie flat along the support surface.

It is also possible that one of the hitch component and the dolly component of the connection assembly be configurable between an extended configuration and retracted configuration, for positioning the dolly closer or farther away from the vehicle, when the dolly is connected to the hitch. For example, the connection assembly may include a telescoping member, configurable between an extended and retracted configuration, for spacing the dolly closer or farther away from the vehicle, when the dolly is connected to the hitch.

In some embodiments, a handle assembly operatively connected to the support assembly can be provided. The handle assembly includes a handle arm pivotally connected at one of the ends of the dolly, and configurable between a stored position where the handle arm is slid under the support surface, substantially parallel thereto, and a deployed position where the handle arm extends away from the support assembly therefore allowing the handle arm to be grasped.

Also preferably, the connection assembly is sized, configurable or adaptable such that when the dolly is in the loading position, the support surface extends substantially at the same height as the trunk floor of the vehicle. For example, a segment of the connection assembly can be vertically-adjustable to position the support surface of the dolly in substantially the same plane of the trunk floor of the vehicle.

According to other possible embodiments, the dolly is designed and configured for facilitating loading of an object from the dolly onto a vehicle, and for transporting the dolly by the vehicle once the object has been loaded onto the vehicle. In this embodiment, the dolly still includes a support assembly with a support surface for supporting the object, the support surface comprising two ends and two lateral sides. The dolly is still provided with at least one wheel operatively connected near one of the ends of the support surface. The connection assembly can include a single assembly or distinct assemblies, and is operable to connect and disconnect the dolly to the vehicle hitch; but also to change a position of the dolly relative to the vehicle and the ground, when the dolly is connected to the vehicle hitch, from the ramp position to the loading position; and from the loading position to the transport position, in which the support surface is upright and extends along the rear of the vehicle, for transporting the dolly with the vehicle, once the object has been loaded in the vehicle.

According to another aspect, a method of operating a dolly for loading an object from the dolly onto a vehicle provided with a hitch is also provided. The method comprises the steps of loading an object on the support surface of a dolly, the dolly being provided with at least one wheel and a connection assembly for connecting and disconnecting the dolly to the vehicle hitch; rolling the dolly near the vehicle, and inclining the support surface until the connection assembly is aligned with the vehicle hitch; connecting the connection assembly to the vehicle hitch; pivoting the dolly to position the support surface parallel to the ground, in a loading position; unloading the object from the dolly and loading the object to the vehicle; and pivoting the dolly toward the vehicle in a transport position, by positioning the support surface vertically relative to the ground, for transporting the dolly with the vehicle once the object has been loaded onto the vehicle. Preferably, the method also include a step of storing the at least one wheel underneath the support surface of the dolly and/or collapsing barriers onto the support surface, rendering the doily more compact for transportation.

According to possible embodiments, the dolly can include a frame with lateral sides, a front end and a rear end; at least one wheel provided at the front end of the frame; a handle provided at the rear end of the frame; a support assembly connected to the frame, the support assembly comprising a support surface for supporting an object and an upstanding barrier for confining the object on the support surface; a catch secured to the frame, the catch comprising a projection defining an axis; a latch assembly comprising a first end and a second end, the first end being connectable to the trailer hitch and the second end being configured to removably latch with the catch and to allow rotational movement of the dolly about the axis of the projection, the latch assembly and the dolly being hingedly attached to one another allowing the dolly to be adjusted between a loading position in which the support surface is horizontal and a transport position in which the support surface is vertical; and a locking mechanism for locking the dolly in the loading position and in the transport position.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a dolly for attachment to a vehicle hitch is provided. The dolly includes a frame and at least one wheel connected to the frame. The dolly also includes a support assembly connected to the frame. The support assembly includes a support surface for supporting an object and an upstanding barrier for confining the object on the support surface. The dolly also includes a catch assembly secured to the frame, the catch comprises a projection defining an axis. The dolly also includes a latch assembly with a first end and a second end, the first end being connectable to the vehicle hitch and the second end being configured to removably latch with the catch assembly, to allow rotational movement of the dolly about the axis of the projection. The latch assembly may include a clamp with a locking mechanism configured to secure the catch within the latch assembly. It is also possible the provide a dolly where the wheel shaft assemblies are configured to receive a wheel assembly or a handle assembly, depending on the need of the users. The dolly can thus be configurable from a two-wheel to a four-wheel configuration.

In some embodiments, the latch assembly and the dolly are hingedly attachable to one another allowing the dolly to be adjusted between a loading position in which the support surface is horizontal and a transport position in which the support surface is vertical. Preferably, the dolly includes a locking mechanism for locking the dolly in the loading position and in the transport position.

In some embodiments, the dolly includes at least one wheel shaft assembly connected to the frame. The wheel shaft assembly includes a wheel shaft with a square section, the wheel shaft being slideable relative to the frame along a longitudinal axis and being pivotable about the longitudinal axis. A handle is provided at a first end of the wheel shaft, and a wheel bracket is provided at a second end of the wheel shaft, to connect one of the wheels to the frame. A square slot provided in the frame receives the square section of the wheel shaft and prevents pivoting of the wheel shaft about the longitudinal axis.

In some embodiments, a sliding bolt lock is operable to prevent the sliding of the wheel shaft along the longitudinal axis.

In some embodiments, the upstanding barrier includes side panels and end panels, the side panels being subdivided into top and bottom sections, the sections being hingedly secured to one another allowing the top section to fold onto the bottom section in a collapsed configuration.

In some embodiments, the latch assembly and the dolly are hingedly attached to one another allowing the dolly to be adjusted between a loading position in which the support surface is horizontal and a transport position in which the support surface is vertical; and a locking mechanism for locking the dolly in the loading position or in the transport position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In the following description, the same numerical references refer to similar elements. Furthermore, for the sake of simplicity and clarity, namely so as to not unduly burden the figures with several references numbers, not all figures contain references to all the components and features, and references to some components and features can be found in only one figure, and components and features of the present disclosure which are illustrated in other figures can be easily inferred therefrom. The embodiments, geometrical configurations, materials mentioned and/or dimensions shown in the figures are optional, and are given for exemplification purposes only.

Referring toFIG.1, there is illustratively provided a dolly generally referred to using the reference numeral12. The dolly12can also be referred to as a cart. The dolly12can be carted by a user to transport an object, such as a box, a piece of furniture, machinery, or any other type of object. The dolly12is especially adapted to transport small loads, such as camping or sporting goods, plants, hardware store goods, such as wood or paint containers. For example, the dolly may be sized and configured to transport loads in the range of 200 lbs or 90 kg.

The dolly12illustratively includes a support assembly18for supporting the object during the transport thereof, in a manner as will now be described. In this embodiment, the dolly includes a frame16, but in other embodiments, the frame may be omitted or be part of the support assembly18. The support assembly includes a support surface20, and has two ends, and two lateral sides. The ends may correspond to front and rear ends,24,22, where the front end may correspond to the end closer to the user when carted, and the rear end corresponding to the end provided with at least one wheel. The two lateral sides26,28extend between the ends22,24, so as to define the generally planar support surface20.

The frame16is illustratively formed from frame elements19such as metal tubing or the like and which can be welded or secured together using fasteners for example, to form a rigid planar structure which is illustratively rectangular in shape, however other shapes can be considered. Of note, the frame elements19may be formed from any other material such as plastic, or other types of metal such as steel or aluminum or the like. Alternatively, the frame16can be formed form a unitary tube construction including bends so as to form a support for a substantially planar structure.

The support assembly18illustratively includes a support surface20, for supporting objects. Cross members30can be provided extending between the two lateral sides26,28for example, or alternatively extending between the rear end22and the front end24, or both. In one embodiment, the support surface20can be a grating, such as a metal mesh structure, connected between the frame elements19. Alternatively, the support surface20can be a flat surface made from a metal or plastic sheet.

The dolly12further includes one or more spaced apart wheels32, such as pneumatic tires or solid rubber wheels for example. The one or more wheels are operatively linked or connected to the support assembly18, and preferably provided at or near an end of the support assembly18. In the illustrated embodiment, the wheels are connected the support assembly via the frame16, and an axial bearing or shaft on the rear end22and underside of the frame16. In some embodiments, the dolly12includes only two wheels at its front end. In some other embodiments, the dolly12can include two pairs of wheels, one pair provided at or near the front end24, and one pair provided at, or near, the rear end22.

Referring toFIGS.11A,11B,16and17, the dolly includes or is used with a connection assembly800, which is operable to connect and disconnect the dolly to the vehicle hitch; and to change the position of the dolly relative to the vehicle and/or the ground, when the dolly is connected to the vehicle hitch. The dolly can be moved from a ramp position700, such as shown inFIG.11A, in which the support surface is inclined, to a loading position500, as shown inFIG.11B, in which the support surface20is raised and parallel to the ground, for loading the object from the dolly to the vehicle. The connection assembly800also allows the dolly12to be moved from the loading position500, as shown inFIG.11B, but also inFIG.16, into the transport position600, in which the support surface is upright and extends along the rear of the vehicle, for transporting the dolly with the vehicle, once the object has been loaded in the vehicle. In the transport position, the support surface preferably extends substantially vertically relative to the ground, for transporting the dolly. It will be noticed that inFIG.11B, the wheels of the dolly12are deployed, in a rolling position, but that theFIG.16, they have been repositioned in a stored position. The one ore more wheels of the dolly are thus preferably part of a wheel assembly, which is configurable between a rolling position and a stored position. In the rolling position, the wheel axis preferably extends parallel to the support surface, and in the stored position, the wheel axis preferably extends perpendicular to the support surface.

In the illustrated embodiment, the movement of the dolly from the ramp position to the loading position is a pivoting movement about a first axis, which extends along a length of the vehicle, as shown inFIGS.11A and11B. In other words, the cart can be pivoted about an axis that extends from the front to the rear end of the vehicle, the axis being also parallel to the hitch of the vehicle, which is typically a rectangular tube which extends from under the rear end of the vehicle. In this embodiment, this pivoting axis corresponds to the axis passing through the projection52, which is identified onFIG.2. As for the movement of the dolly that allows configuring it from the loading position to the transport position, this movement is preferably a rotational movement about a second axis which extends along a width of the vehicle, i.e. from the right to the left side of the vehicle. A locking mechanism allows locking the dolly in the loading position and in the transport position. In this specific embodiment, the locking mechanism includes a locking pin104and a cotter pin77, identified inFIGS.12and14, which can be moved on the hitch assembly (in this case corresponding the latch assembly60), depending on the position of the dolly, as will be explained in more detail below.

As illustrated inFIGS.9to15, a possible embodiment of a connection assembly800is shown. The dolly component or portion750of the connection assembly800comprises a projection52, extending from one of the lateral sides of the support assembly (best shown inFIG.13). As for the hitch component or portion760of the connection assembly800, it comprises a first end62, connectable to the hitch; and a second end64, connectable to the dolly component (best shown onFIG.9). In this particular embodiment, the hitch component760includes three sections: one section that is a lower section762, connectable to the hitch, one middle section764, which is upright, and one section766which is an upper section, substantially parallel to the lower section. This upper section766, is preferably configured to receive the dolly component750, in either the loading or the transport position. More specifically, the second end of the hitch component64preferably includes two segments766a,766b, at angle from one another, and preferably at right angle. The first segment766bextends parallel to the ground, and is sized and configured to receive, secure or attach the dolly component when in the loading position, and the second segment766a, which extends perpendicular to the ground, is sized and configured to connect, receive or secure the dolly component in transport position. In this case, the projection52includes a projection groove108(best shown inFIG.12), and the first segment comprises a U-shaped housing80, to receive the projection in the loading position, and the second segment comprises guides120, which, in combination with pins105,104allows securing the projection52in the loading position. The rotation pin105is insertable through the projection groove108to guide rotation of the projection52when moving the dolly12between the loading and the transport position, and the locking pin104can be inserted in the projection groove108to secure the projection to the first segment or the second segment, depending on whether the dolly is in the loading position or in the transport position. As best shown inFIG.9, the illustrated embodiment of the hitch assembly760includes two L-shaped portions: a first L-shaped portion, including the first end62, connectable to the vehicle's hitch, and a second L-shaped portion, including the first and second segments766a,766b, connectable to the dolly component750, and used to reposition the dolly between the loading and transport positions. An anti-tilting system can be provided to restrict rotation of the dolly in the loading or transport position. In this example, the locking and/or pivoting pins can be used to prevent rotation of the dolly about the projection axis.

Optionally, the hitch or dolly component of the connection assembly can be configurable between an extended configuration and retracted configuration, for positioning the dolly closer or farther away from the vehicle, when the dolly is connected to the hitch. For example, one of the hitch component and dolly component can include a telescoping member767, such as shown inFIG.15, configurable between an extended and retracted configuration, for spacing the dolly closer or farther away from the vehicle, when the dolly is connected to the hitch. In the illustrated embodiment, the second end, the preferably the lower section of the hitch assembly760is telescopic, and thus the distance between the dolly and the vehicle can be adjusted, allowing for example to open the trunk even when the dolly is connected to the hitch.

A more detailed description of a particular embodiment of the connection assembly will be provided in more detail in another section of the description. Of course, the connection assembly can take various configurations, and other shapes are possible, with more or less segments/subassemblies.

Referring toFIGS.2A and3, the dolly12can include handles38to provide the user with a means of grasping and maneuvering the dolly12. Illustratively, the handles38may be adapted to extend outwardly from the frame16, for example as an extension of frame elements19, forming the lateral sides26,28. Other configurations and types of handles may also be provided. The handles38may be used by the user to grasp and lift the dolly12when it is in a resting position, for example when the dolly12is resting on the ground such that the support surface20is parallel or almost parallel to the ground. Using the handles38in this way, the user may bring the dolly12up to a tilted position such that any bad supported by the dolly12due to an object14being supported thereby, can be easily carted by pushing or puffing the dolly12to engage the rotation of the wheels32in a manner as is commonly known in the art.

Now referring toFIGS.2and2A, in addition toFIG.1, in the present embodiment, the wheels32and handles38are attached to the dolly12via first and second wheel shaft assemblies240. In the present embodiment, the wheel shaft assemblies240are spaced apart from one another and are positioned below the support surface20. The wheel shaft assemblies240extend substantially laterally, respectively along the two lateral sides26,28of the frame16. In the present embodiment, each wheel shaft assembly240comprises a wheel shaft242provided with one wheel32and one handle38positioned at opposite ends of the wheel shaft242. The wheel32is illustratively attached to the wheel shaft242at the rear end22of the doily12via a wheel bracket248. The wheel bracket248can be secured to the wheel shaft242through welding but can alternatively be secured thereto using other, less permanent, means. Each handle38is attached to the wheel shaft242at the front end24of the dolly12and can be secured thereto using fasteners like screws or bolts.

In the present embodiment, each wheel shaft242can have a substantially cylindrical shape and define a shaft axis243which is illustratively parallel to the two lateral sides26,28. The wheel shaft assemblies240are slideably mounted to the frame16and can thus slide along a direction of the shaft axis243while simultaneously rotate about the shaft axis243of their respective wheel shafts242. The wheel shaft assemblies240can be operated in different configurations depending on the situation. InFIG.1, the wheel shaft assemblies240have a deployed configuration350, where the wheels32and handles38are substantially perpendicular to the support surface20. In this configuration, the wheels32can effectively roll on the ground for an efficient use of the dolly12. Moreover, as shown inFIG.2, the wheel shaft assemblies240can also be configured or placed in a stored configuration450, where the wheels32and handles38are substantially parallel to the support surface20, rendering the dolly12more compact and therefore better suited for transportation.

Referring now toFIG.2A, in the present embodiment, each wheel shaft assembly240comprises a locking mechanism250configured to block the rotation of the wheel shaft assembly240therefore retaining the wheel shaft assembly240in a predetermined configuration. In this embodiment, the locking mechanism250comprises at least two locking apertures252arranged around a periphery of the wheel shaft242, a frame aperture252aextending through the frame16and adapted to align with one of the locking apertures252and at least one locking plunger253configured to engage the aligned apertures252,252aof the locking mechanism250, effectively blocking the rotation of the wheel shaft assembly240. In order to enable the rotation of the wheel shaft assembly240, the locking plunger253must be slid out/disengaged from both the locking aperture252and the frame aperture252athus allowing the wheel shaft assembly240to rotate about the lateral shaft axis243. For example, from the deployed configuration350, each wheel shaft assembly240can be rotated into the stored configuration450, effectively aligning the frame aperture252awith a second locking aperture (not shown). Once in the stored configuration450, the locking plunger253is then inserted back into the frame aperture252a, and thus the second locking aperture, to lock the rotational movement of the wheel shaft assembly240. In a possible embodiment, the plunger253is provided with a plunger spring (not shown) configured to pull the plunger back into the locking aperture252once released, while simultaneously preventing the plunger253from being completely removed from the wheel shaft242, reducing the risks of dropping or losing the plunger253when handling it.

Now referring toFIGS.3and4, in the illustrated embodiment, the handles38are removably secured to the wheel shaft assemblies240in order to allow other components to be inserted in place of the handles38to configure the dolly12for performing different functions. Each wheel shaft is sized and configured to receive at one of its end a handle or a second wheel. For example, the handles38can be replaced by an additional pair of wheels32, allowing the dolly12to roll around on four wheels instead of two. In this embodiment, the wheel shaft242of the wheel shaft assembly240illustratively includes an attachment mechanism130configured to removably attach accessories136to the wheel shaft242. The accessories136can be a wheel assembly33, comprising a wheel32and a wheel bracket248, or a handle38, for example. The attachment mechanism130illustratively comprises attachment apertures132extending through the accessory136and a shaft aperture133. The attachment aperture132and the shaft aperture133are configured to align when the accessory136is positioned on the wheel shaft242. The attachment mechanism130is further provided with an attachment fastener134sized and shaped to engage in the aligned attachment and shaft apertures132,133to effectively lock the accessory136in place on the wheel shaft242. For example, the attachment fastener134can be a screw or bolt or any other suitable fastening means. To change the configuration of the dolly12from a two-wheeled cart to a four-wheeled cart, the attachment fastener134must first be disengaged from the corresponding apertures. The handle38can then be removed from the wheel shaft242and the wheel assembly33can be positioned onto the wheel shaft242. Finally, the attachment fastener134can be reengaged in the attachment and shaft apertures132,133to lock the wheel assembly33in place.

Now referring toFIGS.5and6, the dolly12further includes a handle assembly140configured to allow the dolly12to be pulled, preferably when it comprises four wheels32. In this embodiment, the handle assembly140is attached to the frame16below the support surface20and includes a handle arm142rotatably mounted to the frame16, a central handle144extending from the handle arm142and a handle-locking mechanism146configured to retain the handle assembly140in a predetermined configuration. The central handle assembly140can be operated into a stored position475(as illustrated inFIG.5) where the handle arm142is positioned under the support surface20substantially parallel thereto or in a deployed position375where the handle arm142extends away from the frame therefore allowing the central handle144to be grasped so that a user may pull the dolly12.

According to one possible embodiment, the handle arm142is made of metal, alternatively, the handle arm142can be made from other materials like plastic for example. The handle arm142is provided with a lateral opening148along a longitudinal direction of the handle arm142, the opening being configured to hook a frame element19of the frame16therefore allowing the handle arm142to slide along the longitudinal direction to operate the handle assembly140and change its configuration as mentioned above. The handle arm142is further provided with an arm plunger aperture150and an arm plunger152designed to lock the handle assembly140in the deployed position375(as illustrated inFIG.6). The central handle144is removably attached to the top end of the handle arm142and is designed to allow the dolly12to be easily pulled and rolled when the central handle assembly140is deployed and especially when the dolly is provided with four wheels32. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle-locking mechanism146includes a snap-clip160extending from the central handle144towards to handle arm142and is configured to snap onto the frame element19of the frame16to lock the central handle assembly140in the stored position. The snap-clip160is preferably made of plastic but can alternatively be made of any suitable material.

Now referring toFIGS.7A and7B, a method for deploying the central handle assembly140is provided. From the stored position475, the snap-clip160must first be disengaged from the frame16by pulling the central handle144outwardly. The handle144is pulled until the handle arm142bottoms-out with the frame element19on which it is mounted, as illustrated inFIG.7B, therefore achieving the deployed position375of the handle assembly140. The arm plunger152is preferably designed to disengage the arm plunger aperture150automatically when the handle assembly140is being deployed. This can be achieved by providing a slanted surface154to the arm plunger152configured to be pushed down by the frame element19it encounters when the handle assembly140is deploying. The arm plunger152can be provided with a spring mechanism (not shown) designed to re-engage the arm plunger152with the arm plunger aperture150when the arm plunger is released.

In order to store the handle assembly140from the deployed position375, the arm plunger152must be pulled downwardly to disengage the arm plunger aperture150thus allowing the handle assembly140to be pushed back under the support surface20. Finally, the snap-clip160must be reengaged with the frame16by snapping it onto the frame element19it was originally attached to, thus securing the handle assembly140in the stored position475.

Referring back toFIG.1again, extending from the frame16, there is illustratively provided an upstanding barrier40which extends away and perpendicularly from the support surface20, or perpendicularly from the frame elements19. Illustratively the upstanding barrier40extends from the rear end22and the lateral sides26,28to prevent objects positioned on the support surface20from falling off the dolly12in any direction. The upstanding barrier40illustratively includes posts42extending from the frame elements19, and a rail44connected to the posts42and running parallel alongside the rear end22, the two lateral sides26,28and the front end24of the frame16. In an alternate embodiment, the rail44is optionally not provided to run along the front end24of the frame16so that the support surface20may act as a ramp when in contact with the ground.

As previously mentioned, the upstanding barrier40functions to provide a restrictive boundary for any object placed on the support surface20, so as to secure and maintain the object within the confines of the support surface20during displacement of the dolly12. Optionally, the rail44may be provided with hook attachments connected to a strap accessory such as a rope, a strap or bungee cord for example (none shown) which can be used for securing one or more objects to the dolly12. In this regard, the dolly12can be adapted to strap down and hold one or more objects upon the support surface20. The upstanding barrier40may thus function to maintain the object over the support surface20when the dolly12is illustratively tilted forward or side to side, or to contain the inertial movement of the object on the dolly, for example over the support surface20, when the object is subjected to an acceleration or a deceleration force. Optionally, the dolly12can be further adapted to include a foot portion (not shown) extending perpendicularly away from the rear end22of the frame16for sliding between the object and the ground and acting as a lever for tilting and carrying an object thereon when the dolly12is pivoted about the wheels32as is commonly known in the art.

Now referring toFIG.8, in addition toFIG.1, the dolly12includes the dolly assembly, embodied in this case as a catch assembly50secured to the frame16. The catch assembly50illustratively includes a projection52projecting perpendicularly from one of the lateral sides26,28in a manner parallel to the plane of the support surface20. The projection52includes an axis54which is illustratively perpendicular to the longitudinal axis56of the dolly12. Illustratively, the projection52may be a rod58connected, for instance by welding, to the frame members19, and extending between the lateral sides26,28of the frame16perpendicular to the longitudinal axis56to thus project from the side of the dolly12. Optionally, and as illustrated, the rod58may be connected to both lateral sides26,28frame elements19, so as to extend between the frame16and be secured thereto, but other attachment configurations are possible, for example the rod58may be sufficiently supported and extend from only one of the lateral sides26,28. Optionally, the rod58may include a radially projecting flange (not shown) extending from the end of the rod58.

Now referring toFIGS.9to11, the dolly12also includes the hitch assembly, in this case embodied as the latch assembly60, including a first end62and a second end64. The first end62is connectable to a trailer hitch66of a vehicle68and the second end64is configured to removably latch onto the catch assembly50. The expression “removably latch” is used herein to refer to the ability of the second end64to be connected with the catch assembly50, and also disconnected from the catch assembly50. For example, the first end62may comprise a square male portion70, formed from a square of metal tubing, which is configured to be slideably received within a corresponding square hollow female portion of the trailer hitch66provided on the rear underside72of the vehicle68, as is commonly known in the art, and secured thereto when the square male portion70is slideably received within the corresponding square hollow female portion of the trailer hitch66and secured thereto using a pin74slid through aligned apertures76provided on the square male portion70female portion (not shown) of the trailer hitch66and maintained therein using a cotter pin77engaged to the pin74in a manner as is generally known in the art.

Now referring more specifically toFIGS.9and10, in addition toFIG.1, the latch assembly60further includes a clamp78with a U-shaped housing80. The U-shaped housing80includes a base portion82connected to the second end of the latch assembly64and two upstanding side portions84to define an open top86opposite the base portion82and a space88enclosed by the base portion82and the two upstanding side portions84. Illustratively, the U-shaped housing80may be formed from a single sheet of bent metal, but a unit of welded metal components may also be provided. The U-shaped housing80also includes a pivotable flap90provided with a top surface91. For example, the pivotable flap90can be an L-shaped plate configured to enclose the space88. The pivotable flap90is rotatably mounted, for example by a hinge92, to a top end94of one of the upstanding side portions84of the U-shaped housing80. The pivotable flap90is moveable between an open configuration325such that the space88is accessible through the open top86and the U-shaped housing80is able to engage the catch assembly50, and in particular the U-shaped housing80able to receive the projection52therein, to a closed configuration425where the space88is inaccessible through the open top86and the U-shaped housing80is unable to engage the catch assembly50, and in particular the U-shaped housing80is unable to receive the projection52therein.

The latch assembly60further includes a flap locking mechanism96illustratively including a flap sliding bolt97attached to the U-shaped housing80so as to engage and lock the pivotable flap90in the closed state as shown inFIG.10. Alternatively, the flap locking mechanism96can include a lever clamp and a movable ring which engages a hook projecting from a flange extending downwardly from one of the side portions84for securing the pivotable flap90in the closed state. Other locking mechanisms may also be provided, which would render the space88(identified inFIG.9) inaccessible to the projection52through the open top86(identified inFIG.9) of the U-shaped housing80and to render the projection52when received within the space88, unable to escape from the U-shaped housing80.

In this embodiment, the latch assembly60further includes at least one locking pin104configured to slide through corresponding housing apertures106illustratively provided in the side portions84of the U-shaped housing80, and also slide through a projection groove108provided along the projection52to prevent rotation and movement of the projection52about the axis54(identified inFIG.8) when the latch assembly60is removably latched with the projection52. The latch assembly60also includes a rotation pin105configured to slide through corresponding rear housing apertures107provided in the side portions84of the U-shaped housing near the second end64of the latch assembly60, and through the projection groove108in order to retain the dolly12latched to the latch assembly60if the locking pin104is removed.

Now referring toFIGS.12and13, when the locking pin104is removed, for example by a user sliding the locking pin104out of engagement with the projection52, the projection52is free to slide in the direction of the axis54while still being mounted to the latch assembly60by the rotation pin105as previously described. However, the projection52can pivot about a pin axis110, defined by the rotation pin105, in order to operate the dolly12in a manner that will be described further below.

The latch assembly60further includes a guide120to help guide and maneuver the dolly12as it is operated to adjust its configuration. In this embodiment, the guide120comprises two downwardly extending members121fixedly attached to the second end64of the latch assembly60. The guide members121are provided with a first set of apertures122aligned with the rear housing apertures107and designed to receive the rotation pin105therethrough, and a second set of apertures123positioned at a lower end of the guide members121configured to receive the locking pin104to lock the catch assembly50in a predetermined configuration.

In the illustrated embodiment, the orientation of the dolly12can be adjusted to facilitate loading and/or transportation of the dolly12while latched to the hitch66of a vehicle68. With reference toFIGS.12through17, the dolly12can be moved from a loading position500(as shown inFIG.16), to a transport position600(as shown inFIG.17). In the loading position, the support surface20is substantially parallel to the ground. However, when the dolly is in the transport position, the support surface20is positioned perpendicularly to the ground, thus allowing for a more compact way of transporting the dolly while attached to the hitch66of a vehicle68. Preferably, when the dolly is in the loading position, the support surface20extends substantially at the same height as the trunk floor of the vehicle.

The orientation of the dolly12can be adjusted between the loading and transport positions500,600by manually rotating the dolly12about the pin axis110of the rotation pin105. A method for adjusting the dolly12between said positions will now be provided. In order to rotate the dolly12about the pin axis110, the locking pin104must first be disengaged from the projection groove or slit108and from the U-shaped housing80as illustrated inFIG.12. The top surface91of the pivotable flap90is designed to prevent early rotation of the projection52when the locking pin104is removed. The dolly12is then pulled outwardly/away from the vehicle until the projection groove108bottoms-out with the rotation pin105. In this configuration, the projection52is free to rotate about the pin axis110of the rotation pin105(FIG.13). Now referring toFIG.14, the dolly12can then be lifted/rotated in an upward position so as to have the projection52be substantially vertical and thus aligned with the vertical guide120of the latch assembly60. The dolly12can then be slid down in the direction of the vertical guide120, until the projection groove108bottoms-out with the rotation pin105once more, thus aligning the second set of housing apertures123of the vertical guide120with the projection groove108allowing the locking pin104to be reengaged in the latch assembly60to effectively lock the dolly12in the transport position600(FIG.15).

Referring toFIGS.14,15and15A, when the latch assembly60is engaged with the catch assembly50, the projection52is free to rotate about its axis within the U-shaped housing80. The coupling of the projection52within the U-shaped housing80allows the projection52, and thus the dolly12, to be rotated about the axis54while ensuring that the projection52, and thus the dolly12, is unable to detach from the hold of the latch assembly60. Once the latch assembly60and catch assembly50are so engaged, the dolly12may be easily pivoted about the projection52, so that the wheels32are lifted from the ground until the support surface20is in a parallel plane with the ground. In this position500, the locking pin104may be slideably engaged with the housing apertures106and corresponding projection apertures so as to fix the dolly12within the plane parallel to the ground. In such a position the dolly12is secured to the vehicle68and ready for transport. In this manner, both the dolly12and the object may be transported by the vehicle68.

As best shown inFIG.14, when the locking pin104is slideably disengaged from the housing apertures and projection groove108, the dolly12is rotatable about the projection52. The dolly12can be rotated from the resting position to a ramp position by rotating it in a counterclockwise direction (i.e. handle side), and into the operation position by rotating it clockwise (i.e. wheel side). When the dolly12is rotated counterclockwise about the projection52, the front end24may be brought into contact with the ground and into a ramp position, thereby creating a ramp onto which the object may be moved thereon. Since optionally the rail44may not extend above the front end24, the object may be slid or rotated onto the support structure20when the dolly12is in this ramp position. The locking pin104can then be engaged to lock the projection52in this angular position, for example by providing projection apertures (not shown) axially offset from the projection groove108such that the locking pin104will be able to pass therethrough unabated, to lodge the projection52in place within the U-shaped housing and thus maintain the dolly in the in the loading position.

In operation, an object may be loaded on the dolly12when in a resting position, that is when the dolly12is parallel to the ground, for example. The user may proceed to lift the dolly12using the handles38and tilt the dolly12into a position (i.e. operating position) which is convenient for the user to both support and push the dolly12, so as to navigate the dolly12adjacent to the latch assembly60. When the dolly12is in such a position, it may be maneuvered by the user so that the latch assembly60is aligned with the catch assembly50, for example by positioning the dolly12in a tilted position above the latch assembly60such that when the dolly12is lowered towards the catch assembly50when in an open state, the projection52will illustratively enter through the open top86of the U-shaped housing80and into the space88. The pivotable flap90may then be swiveled about the hinge92to close the open top86, and the flap locking mechanism96may be engaged to lock the pivotable flap90in the closed state to thereby confine the projection52to the space88. When the projection52is received through the open top86of the U-shaped housing80, the pivotable flap90is moved from an open position to a closed position and locked in place using the flap locking mechanism96, thereby preventing the projection52from exiting the confines of the U-shaped housing80during movement of the vehicle68or otherwise during transport of the dolly12and any object thereon.

Referring toFIG.15A, in some embodiments, an anti-tilting mechanism290can be provided in order to limit rotation of the dolly in a particular direction. For example, the anti-tilting mechanism can be configured to prevent handle side rotation of the dolly12past the resting position. Such a mechanism can be useful, for example, when loading the dolly or securing it to a vehicle. In the illustrated embodiment ofFIG.15A, it is appreciated that the anti-tilting mechanism290can comprise a protruding member294removably engageable with the projection52of the catch assembly50and an abutting edge296positioned near the second end64of the latch assembly60designed to catch the protruding member294. In the present embodiment, the protruding member294has a generally cylindrical form, although it can have any suitable shape or size that would allow the anti-tilting mechanism290to function appropriately.

As mentioned hereinabove and with reference toFIG.8, in addition toFIG.15A, when the latch assembly and the catch assembly are engaged, the projection52is free to rotate about the axis54while still being confined within the housing80of the latch assembly60. When the dolly12rotates in the direction of the front end24of the frame16, the protruding member294contacts the abutting edge296therefore preventing the dolly12from rotating further. Preferably, the protruding member294contacts the abutting edge296when the dolly12is in a substantially horizontal position or in the loading position500. This configuration of the anti-tilting mechanism290can prevent unwanted tilting of the dolly12, especially when an object is positioned on the support surface20. Alternatively, other manners of preventing or blocking the rotation of the projection52may be provided, such as for example by providing a threaded pin (not shown) threaded through the housing apertures106which may be tightened to engage the projection52when received within the U-shaped housing80. By thus preventing the rotation of the projection52, the dolly12is also prevented from rotating.

FIGS.18to26illustrate a dolly according to an alternate embodiment, in which the upstanding barrier40of the dolly12is collapsible, making it even more compact during transport. In other words, the dolly12can be operated between an expanded configuration300(as shown inFIG.18) in which it is suitable for loading and transporting objects, and in a collapsed configuration400(as shown inFIG.19) in which the dolly12takes up less space, for example by placing the upstanding barriers40flat and/or by folding the wheels32and/or handles38inwards. These features will be described in more detail hereinbelow.

In the illustrated embodiment, and as shown in expanded configuration300of the dolly12inFIG.18, the barrier40comprises panels200,202which extend away from the support surface20around a periphery thereof. The panels200,202preferably extend substantially perpendicularly relative to the support surface20. The dolly12is further provided with wheels32and handles38, allowing its normal operation, as described above.

In this second embodiment of the dolly, the upstanding barrier40comprises two side panels200and two end panels202. The side panels200are spaced apart from one another, and extend longitudinally along opposite sides of the support surface20, whereas the end panels202extend between the side panels200at opposite ends thereof. In this configuration, the panels provide a boundary on ail sides of the support surface20, thereby confining objects14to the support surface20during transport or movement of the dolly12.

Preferably, the upstanding barrier40is operable to disassemble and/or fold in order to shift the dolly12to the collapsed configuration400. In the present embodiment, and as best shown inFIGS.20and20A, the end panels202comprise tongues or protrusions224extending along opposite side edges. The protrusions224are adapted to slidably engage with side panels200via corresponding grooves or notches226(identified onFIG.20A) located on opposite edges at the ends of said side panels200. This tongue-and-groove engagement allows both end panels202to be slidably removed from the side panels200, allowing the upstanding barrier40to be disassembled. It is appreciated that other configurations are also possible allowing the side and end panels200,202to be removably engaged with one another.

In the present embodiment, side panels200are further configured to collapse and/or fold on themselves. The side panels200are each subdivided into a top section204and a bottom section206which are hingedly connected to one another. More specifically, a bottom edge of the top section204is engaged with a top edge of the bottom section206via a hinge208. The side panels200are further hingedly connected the support surface20via at least one bottom hinge210.

With reference toFIGS.21,22and22A, biasing mechanisms212,214are provided to maintain the side panels200in an upright and substantially vertical position. In the illustrated embodiment, a first biasing mechanism212comprises a magnet216located within panel hinge208. When the side panels200are upright (i.e. when top204and bottom206sections both extend vertically upward), the magnet216will prevent the hinge208from folding, and thus hold top section204in its upright orientation relative to the bottom section206. Although a magnet is used in the present embodiment, it is appreciated that other biasing mechanisms can be used to retain the top section204of panel200upright relative to the bottom section206. For example, the biasing mechanism212can include springs, snaps, etc.

A second biasing mechanism214is provide to retain the bottom section206of the panel200in an upright orientation relative to the support surface20. The second biasing mechanism214comprises a holding pin218which is inserted in a hollow section220attached to the frame to prevent rotation of the bottom section206of panel200about the bottom hinges210. A spring222is located on the holding pin218and keeps said holding pin218inserted in the hollow section220. The holding pin218can be disengaged by pulling the holding pin out of the hollow section220and compressing the spring222to allow the bottom section206of panel200to rotate, allowing the bottom section206to fold onto the support surface20. It is appreciated that other biasing mechanisms are also possible, for example clamps or other removable; detachable fasteners which can maintain the panels of the upstanding barrier substantially vertical and upright.

Now referring toFIGS.23to23B, another possible example of a locking mechanism is used to block the rotation of the wheels. This locking mechanism comprises a longitudinal lock260and a rotational lock270respectfully designed to prevent longitudinal sliding of the shaft assembly240along the longitudinal axis56, and rotational movement of the shaft assembly240about the longitudinal axis56.

The longitudinal lock260is provided near the handle38and comprises a sliding bolt262and a locking section264, the locking section being attached to the wheel shaft242. The sliding bolt262is designed to slide between a locked position and an unlocked position. While the sliding bolt262is in the locked position, as also illustrated inFIG.23A, the locking section264is positioned between the sliding bolt262and the frame element19, effectively preventing longitudinal movement of the wheel shaft242. Sliding the sliding bolt262in the unlocked position, allows longitudinal movement of the wheel shaft242and operation of the rotational lock270, which will be described below.

As illustrated inFIG.23B, the rotational lock270is provided at the second end246of the wheel shaft242and is comprised of a square shaft section272adapted to fit within a corresponding square slot section274located on the frame. When the square shaft section272is inserted into corresponding square slot section274, the rotational movement of the wheel shaft assembly240about itself is prevented. To allow such rotational movement, the square shaft section272must be disengaged from the corresponding square slot section274by pulling the handle38, and therefore the wheel shaft242, towards the first end244. It will be appreciated that the longitudinal lock260must first be disengaged before being able to disengage the rotational lock270. It will also be appreciated that other shapes can be used for the rotational lock270to lock the rotational movement of the wheel shaft assembly240, such as triangle or rectangle for example, or any shape having at least one flat surface.

Still referring toFIGS.23to238, to adjust the configuration of the wheel shaft assembly240, the sliding bolt lock262must first be moved to the unlocked position to allow longitudinal movement of the wheel shaft242as described above. The handle38is then pulled towards the first end244of the wheel shaft242to disengage the square shaft section272from the square slot section274thereby allowing rotational movement of the wheel shaft assembly240about the longitudinal axis. Once rotated in the desired configuration, the handle38is pushed towards the second end246of the wheel shaft242, sliding the square shaft section272back into the square slot section274and engaging the rotational lock270. The longitudinal lock260is then also re-engaged by sliding the sliding bolt262back in the locked position, preventing further movement of the wheel shaft assembly240.

With reference toFIGS.18,19and20, to adjust the dolly12from the expanded configuration300to the collapsed configuration400, both end panels202can be pulled upwardly in order to slide the protrusions224from corresponding notches226, thus disengaging both end panels202from the side panels200. Once the end panels202are removed, the side panels200are free to collapse/fold on themselves. Provided with enough force to disengage the first biasing mechanism212, the top section204can rotate about the top hinge208to fold the panel200in half (i.e. fold the top section204onto the bottom section206), After disengaging the second biasing mechanism214, the bottom section206can rotate about the bottom hinge210allowing the side panel200to lie flat on the support surface20. When both side panels200are collapsed upon the support surface20, both end panels202can then be stacked or placed on top of the side panels200. Once stacked, the panels202can be locked in place via a locking mechanism230.

In the present embodiment, and as illustrated inFIG.24-24A, the locking mechanism230comprises a flat fixture232engageable with protrusions234on the panels200,202of the dolly12. The flat fixture232can be held securely in place with a screw236, but can be easily held in place by other fastening means such as a strap or a clamp.

It is appreciated that other configurations are possible to allow the dolly to collapse. In a possible embodiment, the side panels200can be designed to be slideably removable from the end panels202and said end panels can collapse/fold upon the support surface20. In another possible embodiment, all four panels of the upstanding barrier can collapse upon themselves to adjust the upstanding barrier from the expanded configuration to the collapsed configuration.

As can be appreciated, folding and disassembling the upstanding barrier40in the collapsed configuration400of the dolly12allows the dolly12to take up less space, making it more suitable for transport. It is appreciated that other parts of the dolly can be collapsed and/or disassembled as well, in order to have the dolly12take up even less space. For example, wheels and handles can be folded inwards for convenient storage or transport of the dolly when latched to a vehicle.

According to an embodiment, the dolly attachment assembly10can be configured to allow adjusting an orientation of the dolly12to facilitate loading and/or transport of the dolly while latched to the hitch of a vehicle. With reference toFIGS.25and26, in the present embodiment, the latch assembly60comprises a hinge which allows the dolly to be moved between the loading position500, illustrated inFIG.25, and the transport position600, illustrated inFIG.26, when the upstanding barrier40is collapsed. In the loading position500, the support surface20is substantially parallel to the ground and the upstanding barrier40can be expanded/unfolded as described hereinabove. When the dolly is in the transport position600, the support surface20is substantially perpendicular to the ground, thus allowing for a more compact way of transporting the dolly while attached to the hitch of a vehicle.

In the embodiments ofFIGS.25and26, the orientation of the dolly12can be adjusted between the loading position500and the transport position600by manually rotating the dolly about a hinge located on the latch assembly60. The latch assembly60is further provided with safety pins282to block rotation of the dolly about said hinge, locking the dolly in a desired position. The position of the dolly can be adjusted, by pulling the safety pins282out of the latch assembly60, manually adjusting the orientation of the dolly, and reinserting the safety pins282in the latch assembly.

In this alternate embodiment of the dolly, an anti-tilting mechanism290is also provided. Referring toFIGS.25,26and26A, the anti-tilting mechanism290comprises a bar292(identified onFIG.26) extending from latch assembly and positioned to abut an underside of the dolly. For example, the anti-tilting bar292can be attached to, and extend from, a side of the U-shaped housing. In the present embodiment, the anti-tilting bar292is hollow and has a square cross-section, but other configurations are also possible. For example, the anti-tilting bar292could be a solid tube.

Referring toFIGS.1to26, the method of operating the dolly12will be described. The dolly is especially adapted for loading one or more objects from the dolly onto a vehicle provided with a hitch. A user can first load objects on the support surface20of the dolly12, when the dolly is in a resting position, such as shown inFIG.1. The dolly is preferably configurable between embodiments such as shown inFIG.1, with two wheels on one end and two handles on the other ends, or embodiments such as shown inFIG.4or5, where pairs of wheels are provided at each end of the dolly. Regardless of the wheel configuration (one, two or four wheels), the dolly comprises a connection assembly for connecting and disconnecting the dolly to the vehicle hitch. Once objects have been placed on the support surface, the user rolls the dolly near the vehicle, and inclines the support surface until the connection assembly is aligned with the vehicle hitch. The user then connects the connection assembly to the vehicle hitch, for example by inserting the first end of the hitch assembly in the hitch, and/or by inserting the projection52onto the second end of the hitch assembly. Preferably, the hitch assembly will have been previously inserted or connected to the hitch. By simply raising the dolly component, such as the projection52, in line with the first segment766bof the hitch/latch assembly, the dolly12can be easily connected to the vehicle. The user can then pivot the dolly12to position the support surface20parallel to the ground, in a loading position, without having to support the entire weight/load of the dolly. The user can then unload the object(s) from the dolly and into to the vehicle, which as in the trunk. Once all objects have been unloaded, the user can simply pivot the dolly toward the vehicle in the transport position, by positioning the support surface vertically relative to the ground, for transporting the dolly with the vehicle once the object has been loaded onto the vehicle. As explained previously, this can be done by pivoting the projection52about the rotation pin105, and by moving the locking pin from the first segment766bto the second segment766a. Depending of the dolly's configuration, the method may include optional steps of storing the at least one wheel underneath the support surface of the dolly and/or collapsing barriers or side panels/walls onto the support surface, rendering the doily more compact for transportation.

It will be appreciated from the foregoing disclosure that there is provided a dolly attachment assembly, which facilitates the inexpensive and rapid connection of a dolly to a vehicle hitch for providing a dual use platform for transporting an object. Of course, the scope of the claims should not be limited by the preferred embodiments set forth in the examples but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole.