Abstract:
A multi-purpose trailer provides further utility by being easily configurable in a carrying orientation, a drive-on loading orientation, and a storage orientation. The storage orientation is capable of near vertical storage, thus taking up very limited amounts of floor space in a garage or storage area. The drive-on loading orientation provides a ramped portion which easily accommodates the loading of wheeled vehicles without the need for additional ramp components or members. Further, mechanisms are provided to easily adjust between the various orientations including hydraulically lifting from a loading orientation to a transport orientation. To provide additional utility, provisions are made on the trailer surface for the attachment of multiple modular accessories.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to a multipurpose trailer which is capable of being folded and stored in a substantially upright configuration. More specifically, the present invention relates to a drop tail multi-use trailer which specifically accommodates drive-on loading of vehicles, while also efficiently folding for storage, thereby using smaller amounts of storage space. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Multi-use trailers are commonly used to transport different types of equipment and products without the need for additional transport vehicles. As well recognized, multi-use trailers can easily be towed by many different types of vehicles, including cars, and light trucks. Typical uses for these multi-use trailers include transporting of motorcycles, all terrain vehicles, snowmobiles, lawnmowers, excavating equipment, construction equipment, golf carts, etc. In addition, multi-use trailers often have flat beds of different types, thus capable of carrying many other loads, such as furniture, household products, boxes or containers, etc. As this list illustrates, multi-use trailers have many different applications and can be a very valuable tool for both individuals and organizations. 
     While trailers with multiple functions or uses are typically desirable, certain applications often require specific considerations. As mentioned above, one very popular use for a multi-use or utility trailer is the transportation of motorcycles and other recreational vehicles (e.g all-terrain vehicles, go-carts, etc). In some particular situations, motorcycle riders may prefer to trailer their motorcycles to riding destinations, thus providing more traveling flexibility. For these motorcycle riders, the ability to load and unload motorcycles is a primary concern when considering different trailer options. The most common approach to used loading involves the use of loading ramps, which are often carried on the trailer. When used, these loading ramps are attached to the back of the trailer, thus allowing motorcycles or wheeled vehicles to be pushed along the ramp onto the carrying surface of the trailer. In one particular embodiment these loading ramps have a generally u-shaped cross-section, thus forming a trough along which the motorcycle is guided. While this approach is efficient, it does create complications when loading. These complications primarily relate to alignment during loading and the possibility of falling off the ramp. Using the narrow ramps mention, it is virtually impossible to ride the motorcycle onto the trailer, due to the narrow width often provided and the fact that no structures exist for the rider to balance with their feet during loading operations. Further, pushing a motorcycle up the ramp is likewise often difficult and undesirable. In addition, it is typically necessary to load the ramps back onto the surface of the trailer when not in use. 
     In alternative mechanisms, a larger ramp will drop from the rear portion of the trailer, thus providing a wider/larger loading surface. The complication provided with this structure, however, relates to the storage of the ramp when not in use. If a large size ramp is necessary, it will likewise be necessary to stow or hide the ramp when not in use. Often, this creates the need for additional holding brackets and additional structure to accommodate this type of loading ramp. As such, this further complicates the design of the trailer itself. 
     As yet another loading approach, side access may be provided depending on the particular payload. Naturally, this will be dictated by the size of the trailer and whether loading can accommodate this type of methodology. As can be anticipated, certain devices could more easily be loaded in this manner, such as ATVs, as they will easily fit within the width of a standard trailer. However, several motorcycle configurations, such as “choppers,” would not fit due to their length. 
     In addition to the above referenced loading issues, storage of the trailer is also a concern. Unfortunately, most individuals do not have access to unlimited storage or garage space, thus storage of the trailer when not in use is a significant consideration. Ideally, the smallest amount of storage floor space possible is most desirable, thus freeing up space for other uses. One solution to this problem is a fold-up trailer, which can be collapsed or folded to reduce its overall footprint size. As a further enhancement, this fold-up trailer could also be provided with a stand-up capability, thus allowing the trailer to be stored in an upright orientation. Complications involved with upright storage relate to supporting structures, in addition to the manipulation or movement of this trailer. More specifically, when folded the trailer must obviously be supported in some manner. Further, the wheels are typically no longer operational thus making movement more difficult. Consequently, additional structures or devices are necessary to accommodate support and movement when folded. 
     As highlighted above, various features of existing trailer designs creates complications and concerns from various perspectives. Specifically, the combined features of easy loading and convenient storage, without the use of additional, “attachable” components is highly desirable and currently not available. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention provides a multi-purpose modular trailer which is configured for drive on loading, while also being semi-vertically storable when not in use. Providing these features alone allows for easy loading of the trailer, while also providing for convenient storage when not in use. 
     In order to provide an effective multi-use trailer, a three-piece platform is utilized. A first platform section, situated in the forward most portion of the trailer, provides a primary supporting surface to carry the desired payload. Situated immediately behind the main platform section is a rear platform, followed by an associated fold-up tail platform. The rear platform is configured to closely align with the main platform section; however, it is also capable of being tilted. Further, the fold-up tail is also closely aligned with the rear platform section, and is also capable of being pivoted or tilted as desired. In the standard “hauling” or “transport” configuration, the front platform and rear platform are configured to be substantially aligned with one another to generally create one continuous planar surface capable of supporting and carrying the desired payload. Additionally, the fold-up tail is folded upwardly to create a back wall which will help contain or hold the particular payload being carried. Alternatively the fold-up tail could be held in differing orientations depending upon the payload and needs for space. For example, the fold-up tail may be angled at approximately 45° to help contain the payload while also allowing some clearance space. 
     In addition to the “flatbed” configuration discussed above, the rear platform and fold-up tail are also capable of being angled downwardly, thus creating a continuous loading ramp. In one embodiment, a pivoting axis for the rear platform is positioned immediately behind the axles of the trailer to provide the capability of tilting. In this format, the forward platform is stably supported by the axles and the tow connection while the rear platform is capable of tilting. The rear platform thus begins its decline from this pivot axis, extending downwardly towards the rear portion of the trailer. The fold-up tail may be configured to be in the same plane as the rear platform, thus it creates one long continuous ramp allowing easy drive on loading. Alternatively, the tail section could be lowered to lie flat on the ground thus causing the rear platform alone to create the ramp. 
     As mentioned above, the rear platform is pivotable about the pivot axis located at the front portion of this platform section. In one embodiment, movement of the rear platform is achieved by using a hydraulic cylinder. Consequently, this provides for powered and controlled movement of the rear platform section. In a preferred configuration, the hydraulic actuator can be operated from controls placed on or adjacent to a portion of the main platform section. In this configuration, a person who is loading a motorcycle, for example, could drive a motorcycle onto the trailer, and actuate the hydraulic system utilizing a control mechanism near their foot. Utilizing this type of actuation mechanism, the rear platform could then be raised to a horizontal position, again in plane with the front platform portion. Using a cooperating latch mechanism, the rear platform is stably locked in this horizontal position for carrying and transporting. In this manner, loading of wheeled vehicles and components is easily achieved. Depending on the particular dimensions and configuration of the payload involved, the foldable tail could be appropriately positioned to form a rear containing wall for the trailer, or perform a portion of the payload carrying section, or some combination of these functions (e.g. angled upwardly at 45 degrees to hold a position of the payload). 
     In addition to the loading and payload carrying capabilities, the trailer in the present invention is also easily stowable when not in use. As mentioned, the rear portion and foldable tail both pivot about respective pivoting axes. In a storage configuration, the rear platform is able to pivot towards the main platform, thus creating a shorter and more compact configuration. In one preferred embodiment, the fold-up tail is positioned at an angle with respect to the rear portion, thus when folded towards the front portion, the tail portion comes into contact with the front platform in a perpendicular arrangement. Once folded, the trailer is capable of being tipped up in an upright orientation for storage. Additional storage casters are placed at appropriate positions generally adjacent to the pivoting axis, thus providing support and mobility features to the trailer when in the fold-up orientation. Due to the orientation of the folding tail and the rear platform, the folding tail section creates a usable horizontal storage shelf when the trailer is in its folded and upright orientation. Thus, in certain applications the fold-up trailer will be wheeled along a wall of a storage shed or garage for off-season or general storage when not in use, but is also capable of being utilized for storage of accessories and other materials on the integrated storage shelf (e.g. Folding tail). 
     Generally speaking, all of the features discussed above are achieved utilizing a tubular frame structure, which is generally lightweight and easily adapted for its particular uses. The supporting platforms can then be covered with appropriate materials, whether solid or vented as necessary. 
    
    
     
       A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Further objects and advantages of the present invention can be seen by reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of the trailer in its general use configuration; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the trailer in its loading configuration; 
         FIG. 3  is a side view of the trailer in its general use configuration; 
         FIG. 4  is a side view of the trailer in its fold-up/stand-up configuration; 
         FIG. 5  is a top view of the trailer in its general use configuration; 
         FIG. 6  is a detailed top view of the latch mechanism; 
         FIG. 7  is a detailed side view of the latch mechanism; 
         FIG. 8  is a detailed side view of the hydraulic mechanism; 
         FIG. 9  is a detailed side view of the caster mechanisms; and 
         FIG. 10  is rear view of the trailer in its fold-up position. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     The present invention provides a multi-use trailer which is particularly well adapted to carrying motorcycles and wheeled vehicles of different types. Consequently, a preferred embodiment involves the configuration of trailer for use in carrying motorcycles, ATV&#39;s, motorized scooters, golf carts, dune buggies, go-karts, etc. It will be understood that this description of potential payloads is not intended to be limiting in any way as several of the outlined advantages are equally applicable for the transportation of other vehicles. 
     Referring to  FIG. 1  there&#39;s illustrated a perspective view of a multi-use trailer  10  in its general use configuration. More specifically, this general use configuration arranges the various components to carry a desired payload when traveling. Multi-use trailer  10  is primarily made up of three platforms: a first or forward platform  12 , a second or rear platform  14  and a third or tail platform  16 . Each of these three platforms include frame work and supporting surface material to create a generally planar section which than can be used to support the desired payload. 
     Other general features included in multi-use trailer  10  are a pair of wheels  20  and an axle  22 , with axle  22  configured to support and attach wheels  20  while also supporting the various platforms of multi-use trailer  10 . Further, multi-use trailer  10  includes a tow hook  24  extending from a front portion of the trailer. To provide additional safety and operational features, a pair of fenders  26  are also attached to multi-use trailer  10  in an orientation to cover and protect appropriate portions of wheels  20 . Further, fenders  26  include tail lights  28  which will be wired for connection to the towing vehicle when in use. A pair of front angled walls  30  are also utilize to provide a front stop for the trailer while also protecting any flying debris that maybe kicked up by the towing vehicle. Multi-use trailer  10  also includes a couple of additional accessories which are attached to the front portion. More specifically a utility box or tool box  40  is position at the front portion of multi-use trailer  10  to carry various types of different supporting products such as ropes, tie-down straps, tools, tarps, etc. Additionally illustrated in  FIG. 1  is a wheel caulk or wheel rail  42  which is designed to capture and hold the front wheel of a motorcycle. In the preferred embodiment, these two accessories allow the trailer to be particularly adapted for these particular purposes. 
     In the particular embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 1 , surface decking of different types is utilized on forward platform  12  and rear platform  14 .  FIG. 1 , illustrates the trailer having solid decking on large portions of forward platform  12  and rear platform  14 , thus providing continuous supporting surfaces. Additionally, the side portions or edges of forward platform  12  and rear platform  14  include grated decking to support load, while also allowing drainage and minimizing weight. Further, tail platform  16  includes only this grated decking. Naturally, variations are possible depending on the specific application of the trailer. Generally speaking, the frame work supporting the related decking is metal tubing which has been appropriately welded to create the desired configuration. It is anticipated that various types of structural metal could easily be utilized including various round or square bar stock, angle iron etc. The particular choice of specific frame material will vary depending on the particular application and use. Further, different material maybe contemplated including various steel material, aluminum, or related structural materials. Again, the choice of material will depend upon the application intended and the necessary strength/weight considerations for multi-use trailer  10 . The preferred embodiment primarily utilizes round metal tubing having a appropriate protective coating to prevent corrosion and rust. 
     Referring to  FIG. 2  there is shown a perspective view of multi-use trailer  10  in its loading configuration. In this particular configuration, forward platform  12  is supported by wheels  20  and front tow hook  24  to maintain a generally horizontal orientation. Naturally, when the trailer is used on inclined surfaces the actual orientation will typically follow the surface upon which the trailer is utilized. Consequently, any discussion herein related to “horizontal” orientation is not intended to be limiting, however more generally involves the typical use contemplated and conditions encountered. 
     As better seen in  FIG. 2 , rear portion  14 , in the loading orientation, has been angled downwardly. This angling or tilting of rear portion  14  begins at a rear platform hinge axis  34  which is position directly behind forward platform  12 . Generally speaking, this rear platform  34  will be positioned slightly behind the wheel axle  22 , thus providing stable support while also avoiding any interference with the general loading characteristics of forward platform  12 . 
     As also seen in  FIG. 2 , rear platform  14  and tail platform  16  are aligned to be substantial planar, thus creating a loading ramp which can easily accommodate the loading of wheeled vehicles. The tail platform  16  can be tilted or hinged around a tail platform axis  34  to achieve this desired orientation. When compared with  FIG. 1 , the general nature of this hinging function can easily be seen. 
     To further illustrate the features and operation of the multi-use trailer  10 , a side view of the trailer  10  is illustrated in  FIG. 3 . In this particular view the wheels, are shown in phantom thus providing the ability to illustrate other components. As shown, the front platform  12  is supported by a frame work  50 , including necessary tubing and support structures to attach tow hook  24 . This frame work  50  also attaches to a wheel support structure  52  which is configured to attach and support wheel axles  22 . Wheel support structure  52  also provides additional frame work, which is further outlined below. Naturally, the size and dimensions (specifically the length) of front platform  12  could be easily modified to fit differing applications. Obviously, a trade off will exist in relation to the storage configuration, as discussed in further detail below. A longer front platform  12  does have several advantages including increased capacity and additional features. One further feature may include the ability to use side loading ramps to meet particular needs. A longer front platform may make upright storage less convenient, but this may be acceptable for certain users. 
     As generally mentioned above, a rear platform hinge axis  34  is positioned immediately behind front platform  12 . As seen, a first hinge bracket  54  is attached to front frame work  50  to achieve this hinging operation. A corresponding rear hinge bracket  56  is similarly attached to a rear platform frame work  60 . Front hinge bracket  54  and rear hinge bracket  56  are then connected via a hinge pin  58  which accommodates the hinging or tilting of rear platform  14 . 
     As generally mentioned above, rear platform  14  includes a rear platform frame work  60  which is generally configured to support that portion of multi-use trailer  10 . As illustrated, the bottom of rear frame work  60  is generally angled upwardly from front to back, thus accommodating the loading orientation illustrated in  FIG. 2 . A similar hinge bracket  62  is attached to a rear portion of rear platform frame work  60  to accommodate the rotation or tilting of tail platform  16 . Rear hinge bracket  62  also includes further accommodations to support locking pins (not shown) which will hold tail platform  16  in desired orientation. As can be anticipated these locking pin are simply inserted in to appropriate openings in the rear platform hinge bracket  62  thus, locking tail platform  16  in the desired position relative to rear platform  14 . In one embodiment, corresponding openings are provided to hold the tail platform in orientations of 90 degrees or 45 degrees with respect to the plane of rear platform  14 . Naturally, other orientations are possible, such as 180 degrees, depending on the configuration of rear platform hinge bracket  62 . 
     As generally discussed with reference  FIGS. 1-3 , the ability to tilt and reorient the three platform sections with respect to one another provides several advantages for the present invention. Obviously, the ability to achieve the loading orientation shown in  FIG. 2  is made possible by incorporating the various hinge brackets and hinge pins as discussed above. One additional advantage is the ability to fold the trailer into a storage orientation. More specifically, multi-use trailer  10  is capable of being folded and positioned to accommodate near upright storage, or stand-up storage, when not in use. The ability to provide this storage orientation is better illustrated in  FIG. 4  which is a side view of, with wheels  20  again shown in phantom to illustrate various components. As illustrated, rear platform  14  has been folded or tilted toward forward platform  12 . Similarly, tail platform  16  has been tilted toward rear platform  14  at an angle of less than 90 degrees (with respect to rear platform). In one embodiment, tail platform  16  will actually contact and be connected with a portion of forward platform  12 . 
     Also illustrated in  FIG. 4  is a caster assembly  70 . Included in caster assembly  70  is a caster  72 , a caster bracket  74  and a mounting structure  76  attached to rear platform frame work  60 . (Further details regarding caster assembly are outlined below in relation to  FIG. 9 .) As illustrated in  FIG. 4  however, caster  72  is held in appropriate position to support and hold multi-use trailer  10  in an upright orientation, when also supported by wheels  20 . In this orientation multi-use trailer  10  can thus be easily stored within a garage or storage facility, and utilize a relatively small amount of floor space. In addition, this orientation provides the additional utility of a storage shelf created by tail platform  16 . More specifically, tail platform  16  is oriented in a substantially horizontal manner when multi-use trail  10  is configured in its storage orientation. As such, tail platform  16  creates a place for storage of accessories and/or any other related equipment. For example, motorcycle helmets could easily be placed and stored on the shelf when multi-use trailer  10  is in its storage orientation and location. 
     As mentioned above, caster assembly  70  in conjunction with wheels  20 , supports multi-use trailer in the upright position. In order to achieve this functionality, placement and orientation of caster brackets  74  and caster mounting  76  is important. Given that rear platform framework  60  is configured and angled in the manner illustrated, this structure provides an appropriate mounting location to achieve this function. 
     Referring to  FIG. 5 , a top view of multi-use trailer  10  generally shows the orientation of various components discussed above. Again, front platform  12 , rear platform  14  and tail platform  16  are all illustrated in relation to one another. As mention above, front platform  12  and rear platform  14  are configured to pivot or rotate about rear platform hinge axis  34 . Naturally, in an application where payloads will be carried, it is desirable to provide additional support and/or locking mechanisms to hold rear platform in a desired orientation. More specifically, when utilized in the transport or general use orientation illustrated in  FIGS. 1 and 3 , it is desirable to provide appropriate support to hold rear platform  14  in its desired position. To achieve this, a latch mechanism  80  is utilized. Latch mechanism  80  includes a number of different components, primarily including a pair of latches  82 , related latch brackets  84 , latch springs  86  and a latch actuator  88 . Generally speaking latch mechanism  80  is attached to front frame work  50  and is configured to capture and hold related portions of rear frame work  60  when multi-use trailer  10  is in the “general use” orientation. Actuator  88  is held in place by a pair of holding brackets  98  which are also attached to front framework  50 . As can be anticipated, when trailer  10  is carrying a load, rear platform  14  and tail platform  16  create a lever arm capable of generating forces that must be managed. In other orientations, these forces are of less concern, however must also be considered. 
     Also illustrated in  FIG. 5  are a plurality of modular accessory attachment ports  66 . In order to provide flexibility, attachment ports  66  are positioned at various locations on the trailer, primarily at front platform  12 , to accommodate accessories such as tool box  40 , wheel caulks  42 , etc. Various connection mechanisms could be utilized, including threaded ports and corresponding threaded connections, twist-and-lock mechanisms, etc. 
     Further details regarding latch mechanism  80  are illustrated in  FIGS. 6 and 7 . A top view and an end view of latch mechanism  80  are shown in  FIGS. 6 and 7 , respectively. Generally speaking, latch assembly  80  is a spring loaded latch mechanism having a capture slot  90  which is designed to capture appropriate portions of rear frame work  60 . As shown, bracket  82  is held in a bias position extending outwardly from latch bracket  84 . To achieve this bias orientation, latch spring  86  cooperates with appropriate stops on bracket  84  and latch  82  to cause the latch  82  to be held against a stop  92 . Latch  82  is then moved by applying appropriate forces to over come the spring bias created by latch spring  86 . In relation to  FIG. 7 , forces on latch  82  are generated either by movement of actuator  88 , or by a nose portion  94  being pushed by other components. When these forces are applied, nose portion  94  will then be allowed to move upwardly, thus repositioning capture slot  90 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 6  latch actuator  88  is made up of a elongated bar which is designed to interact with both latches  82 . Most significantly, actuator  88  simply applies rotational forces, thus moving nose portion  94  upwardly when desired. Latch actuator  88  is actually made up multiple segments primarly including a first lever end  96  and an elongated central portion  100 . As generally shown, central portion  100  is configured as a substantially linear bar portion cooperating with latches  82 . To provide latch movement central portion  100  will simply be rotated, thus applying appropriate forces to latches  82  as generally discussed above. 
     To better illustrate first lever end  96 ,  FIG. 7  includes a more detailed close-up drawing illustrating only those sections of latch actuator  88 . As can be seen, first lever end  96  has an upwardly extending arm  102 . This upwardly extending arm  102  is intended to be actuated by force in a downward direction, thus causing counter clockwise rotation of central portion  100 . Consequently, the end of latch actuator  88  can be utilized to apply appropriate forces to latches  82  from a more convenient location. Generally speaking, this allows the selective unlatching of the latch mechanism  80  itself. Obviously, several alternative lever mechanisms could be utilized depending on the desired locations necessary to actuate latch mechanism  80 . One example includes a similar latch mechanism located on the opposite end of central member  100 . As a further alternative embodiment, levers responsive to forces in different directions are also contemplated. 
     As discussed above, multi-use trailer  10  is configured to have its rear platform  14  and tail platform  16  tilt downwardly to provide a loading ramp type configuration. Subsequently, tail platform  14  and rear platform  16  are tilted upwardly to general operating positions. To allow for this tilting to occur, the above-referenced latch mechanism  80  must be actuated, thus releasing latches  82  as necessary. Again first lever end  96  is specifically configured for this release function. 
     After being tilted to the loading configuration, it will eventually be desirable to lift the rear portion to the operating orientation. It is contemplated that this lifting would occur with the payload on the trailer. Thus, a considerable amount of additional weight must be carried. To assist in this raising, the present invention provides a hydraulic lift system. Generally speaking, the hydraulic lift system includes three primary components: a actuator or pump, a hydraulic cylinder, and appropriate hydraulic tubing to carry hydraulic fluids/signals between the pump and cylinder.  FIG. 8  generally illustrates hydraulic system  110  which is incorporated into multi-use trailer  10 . As more specifically illustrated, hydraulic system  110  includes an actuator  112  to control the lifting operation. In this embodiment, hydraulic actuator  112  includes a handle  114  and a related manual hydraulic pump  116 . Attached to an output of hydraulic pump  116  are hydraulic tubes  118  configured and designed to carry the hydraulic signal generated. Connected to an opposite end of hydraulic tubing  118  is a hydraulic cylinder  120  which is designed to receive the hydraulic signal and appropriately move a related piston  122 . As configured in multi-use trailer  10 , hydraulic piston  122  is attached to a lifting paddle  130  which is designed to transfer forces as desired. Lifting paddle  130  is also attached via a connection pin  132  to front frame work  50 . As is generally illustrated in  FIG. 5 , hydraulic cylinder  120  and lifting paddle  130  are centrally located at a middle portion of the trailer thus applying forces at this central location. 
     Again, the movement of lifting paddle  130  will cause related force to be applied to rear frame work  60 . Most significantly, actuating hydraulic pump  116  will cause hydraulic cylinder  120  to be extended, thus causing lifting paddle  130  to rotate about connecting pin  132 . This rotation will ultimately cause force to be exerted upon rear frame work  60  and the desired lifting action to occur. Generally speaking, the current embodiment uses a simple lifting paddle mechanism designed to contact a tubular frame member of rear framework  60 . If the lifting action is repeatedly undertaken, it is clearly contemplated that some wear could occur, thus damaging either lifting paddle  130  or rear frame work  60 . As such, the applicants clearly contemplate that different friction-reducing or wear-reducing elements could be incorporated. For example, specially configured materials could be placed upon the related surfaces, thus virtually minimizing or eliminating friction. Further, bearings could be incorporated along with related surfaces, again thus virtually minimizing or eliminating friction. As another alternative, bearings could be incorporated along with a related slide plate to deal with the friction created during the lifting operations. Several other options are clearly possible, all of which are contemplated to be usable in conjunction with the present invention. 
     As mentioned above, hydraulic system  110  includes handle  114  and pump  116 . This provides a simply system for manually actuating hydraulic cylinder  120 , thus raising rear platform  14 . Naturally, an automatic system could be utilized which incorporates an electric pump designed to operate off power supplied from the tow vehicle. This type of power unit would be generally straight forward and capable of easily moving the cylinder. Alternatively, power could be provided by batteries, small motors, or generators carried on the trailer. Yet another alternative system may include an electrical linear actuator capable of providing force to lifting paddle  130  in response to applied electrical systems. While a hand pump is illustrated in the figures, all of these alternatives are clear viable options which are considered to be within the scope of the present invention. 
     As briefly discussed above in relation to  FIG. 4 , multi-use trailer  10  of the present invention includes a caster assembly  70  designed to cooperate with wheels  20  to support the trailer when it is in its folded/stored orientation. Referring now to  FIGS. 9A and 9B , caster assembly  70  is better illustrated. More specifically,  FIG. 9A  illustrates the caster assembly  70  in a retracted position wherein  FIG. 9B  illustrates caster assembly  70  in an extended position. The caster mounting structure  76  is generally a bracket piece welded to rear framework  60  to provide appropriate support. Caster bracket  74  is rotatably mounted or attached to mounting structure  76  via a pin  78 . This pin mounting structure provides the rotation capability necessary for the present invention. As anticipated, when the caster is in its retracted or stowed position, as shown in  FIG. 9A , additional ground clearance is provided for the trailer during general use. Moving caster assembly  70  to its extended position, as illustrated in  FIG. 9B , will provide appropriate orientation and positioning to support multi-use trailer  10  in its near upright storage orientation. It can be appreciated that caster assembly  70  can be held in either of the two illustrated positions by using an appropriate holding pin  79  inserted in related holes. 
     Although the above discussion outlined the positioning of a folded trailer in a storage position, it is also contemplated that the trailer could be transported while in this orientation.  FIG. 10  illustrates a rear view of the trailer, in its folded orientation while also being towable. Generally speaking, the orientation illustrated in  FIG. 10  is identical to that illustrated in  FIG. 4  however, the caster assembly  70  has been retracted. This Figure also illustrates the configuration of rear frame work and the angled nature thereof. Further, this provides the ability to mount a spare tire  140  beneath rear platform  14 . The ability to fold the different platforms in many different orientations provides additional accessibility characteristics. In this case, spare tire  140  is easily accessible when trailer  10  is in this folded position, and thus could be more easily removed. It is noted that  FIG. 10  also provides an additional view showing the orientation and positioning of latches  82  and lifting paddle  130 . Again, these components are mounted to the rear portion of front frame work  50 , thus being essentially held in their same positions at virtually all times. 
     Various embodiments of the invention have been described above for purposes of illustrating the details and features thereof. These embodiments are not intended to be limiting in any way as certain modifications and variations are clearly possible. Applicant intends the present application to cover all modifications and changes coming within the scope and spirit of the following claims.