Patent Publication Number: US-11654817-B2

Title: Trailer latch for boat motor support

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/094,964, filed Apr. 8, 2016, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/146,016, filed Apr. 10, 2015, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The present patent application relates to a system for supporting a motor of a boat with respect to a boat trailer. 
     BACKGROUND 
     When transporting a boat on a trailer, a motor of the boat is supported in a fixed position to limit the amount of vibrational stress a bouncing motor can put on the transom of the boat. Some boats may include built-in mechanisms to support the motors while others do not. However, even the built-in support mechanisms on some boats still are prone to disengaging when rough road surfaces are encountered. 
     In some instances, a separate motor support mechanism may be used to support the motor in a fixed, elevated fashion, as a standalone motor support. However, just like some built-in support mechanisms, some separate support mechanisms are prone to being jarred loose, leading to possible damage to the motor, boat trailer, or motor support mechanism itself. Further, attaching a separate support mechanism can be a cumbersome process, causing some users to forego use of a separate support mechanism entirely. Therefore, improvements in the design of, and the method of attaching, a motor support mechanism are needed 
     SUMMARY 
     One embodiment of the present patent application provides a system for supporting a motor of a boat with respect a boat trailer. The system includes a support member having a first end portion constructed and arranged to support the motor of the boat and a second end portion constructed and arranged to be releasably secured to a portion of the boat trailer; a generally inverted U-shaped member constructed and arranged to receive the portion of the boat trailer within the generally U-shaped configuration. The U-shaped member has a bight portion and a pair of leg members extending downwardly from the sides of the bight portion. The support member is constructed and arranged to be connected to one of the pair of leg members of the U-shaped member. The system also includes a releasable latch assembly constructed and arranged to releasably secure the inverted U-shaped member to the portion of the boat trailer. The latch assembly includes a latch member moveable between a latched position and a released position. In the latched position, the latch member is constructed and arranged to retain the portion of the boat trailer within the generally U-shaped configuration of the U-shaped member. 
     Another embodiment of the present patent application provides a system for supporting a motor of a boat with respect a boat trailer. The system includes a first support member constructed and arranged to support the motor of the boat, and a second support member constructed and arranged to be releasably secured to a portion of the boat trailer. The first support member is constructed and arranged to be received by and extending in and out of the second support member to facilitate longitudinal telescopic movement between first and second support members. The system includes a lock assembly constructed and arranged to selectively lock the first and second support members at one of a plurality of longitudinally extended positions. The lock assembly includes a lock member that is movable between a first position and a second position. The lock member is linked to lock components associated with the first and second support members so that the movement of the lock member from the first position to the second position unlocks the lock assembly to enable the longitudinal telescopic movement between first and second support members. 
     Yet another embodiment of the present patent application provides a system for supporting a motor of a boat with respect to a boat trailer. The system comprises a longitudinally extendable support shaft that is configured to be secured in a selected one of a plurality of extended positions; a motor support disposed at a first end of the support shaft; and a trailer connector disposed at a second end of the support shaft. The trailer connector comprises a releasable latch to connect the trailer connector to the boat trailer. The trailer connector comprises a manually engageable actuator configured to selectively latch or release the trailer connector from the boat trailer. 
     The present disclosure relates generally to motor support for a boat trailer. In one embodiment, and by non-limiting example, the motor support includes a latching mechanism. 
     In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a motor support for a boat trailer is disclosed. The motor support includes a support shaft configured to support, in a spaced-apart relationship, a motor of a boat with respect to the boat trailer. The motor support also includes a trailer end and a motor end. The trailer end defines a spring-loaded latching mechanism configured for latching the trailer end of the motor support with respect to a portion of the boat trailer. 
     In another embodiment of the present disclosure a motor support for a boat trailer is disclosed. The motor support includes a support shaft configured to support, in a spaced-apart relationship, a motor of a boat with respect to the boat trailer. The motor support also includes a trailer end. The trailer end defines a spring-loaded latching mechanism configured for latching the trailer end of the motor support with respect to a portion of the boat trailer. The latching mechanism defines a pull handle operable against a bias of the spring for releasing the trailer end of the motor support from the boat trailer. The motor support also includes a motor end. The motor end includes a motor support structure configured to rest against a portion of a motor of a boat. 
     In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of attaching a motor support to a boat trailer is disclosed. The method includes opening a spring-loaded latching mechanism. The method also includes coupling the latching mechanism to the boat trailer and allowing the latching mechanism to close under a spring bias. 
     In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of attaching a motor support to a boat trailer is disclosed. The method includes opening a spring-loaded latching mechanism that is at a first end of a motor support. The method also includes positioning the spring-loaded latching mechanism around a keel roller of a boat trailer. The method also includes coupling the latching mechanism to the keel roller of the boat trailer by allowing the latching mechanism to close under a spring bias. The method also includes supporting a motor of the boat by positioning a motor support structure against the motor. The motor support structure is at a second end of the motor support. 
     According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a motor support for a boat trailer is disclosed. The motor support includes a support shaft configured to support, in a spaced-apart relationship, a motor of a boat with respect to the boat trailer. The motor support also includes a trailer end and a motor end. The trailer end defines a latching mechanism configured for latching the trailer end of the motor support with respect to a portion of the boat trailer. The latching mechanism includes an engagement portion and a retention portion. The retention portion is movable with respect to the engagement portion. 
     These and other aspects of the present patent application, as well as the methods of operation and functions of the related elements of structure and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding parts in the various figures. In one embodiment of the present patent application, the structural components illustrated herein are drawn to scale. It is to be expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the present patent application. It shall also be appreciated that the features of one embodiment disclosed herein can be used in other embodiments disclosed herein. As used in the specification and in the claims, the singular form of “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. As used herein, the term “may” as used in connection with any structural or functional attributes, will in some embodiments have those attributes, but that such structural or functional attributes are not required in all embodiments. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG.  1    illustrates a schematic side view of a motor support disposed between a boat trailer and a boat motor, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  2    illustrates a perspective view of the motor support shown in  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  3    illustrates a schematic side view of a portion of a motor support similar to that of  FIG.  1   , shown in a closed position, portions of the motor support are cut-way to show the internal features thereof; 
         FIG.  4    illustrates a schematic side view of a portion of the motor support of  FIG.  3   , shown in an open position; 
         FIG.  5    illustrates a perspective view of a motor support, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  6    shows a perspective view of a system for supporting a motor of a boat with respect a boat trailer in accordance with another embodiment of the present patent application; 
         FIG.  7    shows a partial, front elevational view of the system in accordance with an embodiment of the present patent application; 
         FIG.  8    shows a partial, perspective view of the system in accordance with an embodiment of the present patent application; 
         FIG.  9    shows another partial perspective view of the system in accordance with an embodiment of the present patent application; and 
         FIG.  10    shows a partial perspective view of a second support member of the system in accordance with an embodiment of the present patent application. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     Various embodiments will be described in detail, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, wherein corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts and like reference numerals represent like parts and assemblies throughout the several views. Reference to various embodiments does not limit the scope of the claims attached hereto. Additionally, any examples set forth in this specification are not intended to be limiting and merely set forth some of the many possible embodiments for the appended claims. 
       FIG.  1    depicts a motor support  100  in accordance with one embodiment of the present patent application. The motor support  100  includes a trailer end  102  and a motor end  104 . In one embodiment, the motor support  100  is positioned between a boat trailer  106  and a motor  108  of a boat  110 . The motor support  100  is configured to hold the motor  108  of the boat  110  in a fixed, elevated position so that the lowest point of the motor  108  (i.e., the propeller (not shown)) is elevated from the ground. The trailer end  102  is in contact with the boat trailer  106 , and the motor end  104  is in contact with the motor  108 . In one embodiment, the trailer end  102  is latched to the boat trailer  106 , for example, to a keel roller  112  of the boat trailer  106 . 
       FIG.  2    shows a perspective isometric view of the motor support  100 . The motor support  100  includes a support shaft  114 , a latching mechanism  116 , and a motor support surface  118 . As shown, the motor support  100  is constructed and arranged to be attached to the keel roller  112 . In one embodiment, the keel roller  112  may be a part of the boat trailer  106  shown in  FIG.  1   . 
     The support shaft  114  is disposed between the trailer end  102  and the motor end  104 . In one embodiment, the support shaft  114  may generally be hollow. In another embodiment, the support shaft  114  may generally be solid. Further, in other embodiments, the support shaft  114  may be configured to be length-adjustable. 
     The latching mechanism  116  is configured to secure the motor support  100  to a portion of the boat  110  (as shown in  FIG.  1   ). In one embodiment, the latching mechanism  116  is configured to be attached to the keel roller  112  of the boat trailer  106 . 
     The latching mechanism  116  includes an engagement portion or element  120  and a retention portion or element  122 . 
     The engagement element  120  is configured to engage a portion of the boat trailer  106  so as to removably secure the motor support  100  to the boat trailer  106 . In one embodiment, the engagement element  120  is an arm. In one embodiment, the engagement element  120  may be generally curved (i.e., hooked), and is configured to partially surround an upper portion of the keel roller  112 . The engagement element  120  is configured to latch onto the keel roller  112  of the boat trailer  106  to prevent the motor support  100  from disengaging in the horizontal direction. 
     The retention element  122  is configured to retain the engagement element  120  on the boat trailer  106 , for example, to the keel roller  112  of the boat trailer  106 . The retention element  122  has two positions: a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the retention element  122  aids in maintaining the latching of the latching mechanism  116  to the boat trailer  106 , for example, to the keel roller  112  of the boat trailer  106  and limits removal of the latching mechanism  116  from the keel roller  112  of the boat trailer  106 . In the open position, the retention element  122  allows for removal of the latching mechanism  116  from the keel roller  112  of the boat trailer  106 . In one embodiment, the retention element  122  is a pin. 
     In one embodiment, the retention element  122 , shown as a pin, is movable between the closed position and the open position by way of an attached rod  124  with a pull handle  126 . To move the retention element  122  to the open position, the user of the motor support  100  pulls the pull handle  126  of the rod  124  in a direction toward the motor end  104 . To move the retention element  122  to the closed position, the rod  124  is moved in a direction toward the trailer end  102 . As shown, the rod  124  and the retention element  122  are generally parallel to the support shaft  114 . In one embodiment, the rod  124  may be placed at least partially, or completely, within the support shaft  114 . The rod  124  is partially contained within a latching cylinder  128  at the trailer end  102  of the motor support  100  and is supported at the motor end  104  of the motor support  100  by way of a rod hanger  130 . In one embodiment, the latching cylinder  128  also houses an internal spring that is configured to spring load the rod  124  and the latching mechanism  116  (described in detail in  FIGS.  3  and  4   ). 
     The rod  124  is configured to be a length that is similar to the length of the support shaft  114 . The pull handle  126  of the rod  124  is positioned near the motor end  104  to ensure ease of access by the user during operation of the motor support  100 . 
       FIG.  3    shows a side perspective view of a portion of a motor support  100 ′ attached to the keel roller  112  of the boat trailer  106 . In one embodiment, the rod  124  is partially housed within the support shaft  114 . The retention element  122  is shown in the closed position, and a partial cutaway view of the latching cylinder  128  is shown. 
     In one embodiment, the latching cylinder  128  encases a spring  132 . The rod  124  enters at one side of the latching cylinder  128  and is attached to the retention element  122  at the opposite side of the latching cylinder  128 . Within the latching cylinder  128 , the spring  132  is coiled around the rod  124  and biased against the latching cylinder  128  at one end and against the retention element  122  at the other end. In its resting state, and when the rod  124  is not operated by a user, the spring  132  keeps the retention element  122  in the closed position. 
       FIG.  4    shows the retention element  122  in the open position. Accordingly, the rod  124  is shown in a retracted state, and the spring  132  is shown in a compressed state. In one embodiment, the spring force of the spring  132  may be a value that can be overcome by a human hand pull and strong enough to force the retention element  122  back to the closed position when the rod  124  is released by the user. 
       FIG.  5    shows a portion of a motor support  200  according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The motor support  200  includes a trailer end  202 , a latching mechanism  216 , a support shaft  214 , and a pull rod  224 . The motor support  200  shares similar elements with the motor support  100  and  100 ′ as described above. 
     The latching mechanism  216  of the motor support  200  includes an engagement element  220  and a retention element  222 . In one embodiment, the engagement element  220  includes a first arm  220 . In one embodiment, the first arm  220  is a curved arm that is configured to partially surround the upper portion of a keel roller  212 . 
     Also, in one embodiment, the retention element  222  includes a second arm  222 . In one embodiment, the second arm  222  is a curved arm that is configured to partially surround the lower portion of the keel roller  212 . Additionally, the second arm  222  is pivotable with respect to the first arm  220 . In one embodiment, the second arm  222  is pivotally connected to the support shaft  214 . Also, in one embodiment, the second arm  222  may include multiple fingers  234 . For example, in one embodiment, the second arm  222  includes two fingers  234 . In one embodiment, the number of fingers may vary. The fingers  234  are configured to wrap partially around the keel roller  212  of the boat trailer  106 . 
     The second arm  222  is connected to the rod  224  and is configured to pivot about the first arm  220  between a closed position and an open position when the rod  224  is pulled by a user. In the closed position, the first arm  220  and the second arm  222  are configured to secure the motor support  200  to the boat trailer  106 , specifically the keel roller  212  of the boat trailer  106 . When the second arm  222  is in the open position, the motor support  200  can be easily removed from the boat trailer  106 , for example, from the keel roller  212  of the boat trailer  106 . 
     In one embodiment, the latching mechanism  216  can be spring loaded similar to the embodiments  100  and  100 ′. In one embodiment, the second arm  222  of the latching mechanism  216  may include a torsion spring at the pivot attachment point  236  configured to keep the second arm  222  in the closed position in a resting state. In another embodiment, the second arm  222  may be biased against the first arm  220  by way of a linear coil spring. 
     To attach the motor support  100  ( 100 ′) or  200  shown in  FIGS.  1 - 5    to the boat trailer  106 , the user of the motor support  100 ,  200  first opens the latching mechanism  116 ,  216 . After opening the latching mechanism  116 ,  216 , the user then couples the latching mechanism  116 ,  216  to a portion of the boat trailer  106 . In one embodiment, when the user couples the latching mechanism to the boat trailer  106 , the user allows the latching mechanism  116 ,  216  to close under a spring bias. In one embodiment, the user positions the latching mechanism  116 ,  216  around the keel roller  112  of the boat trailer. It is contemplated that other portions of the boat trailer  106  may be used for attaching the motor support  100 . After coupling the latching mechanism  116  to the boat trailer  106 , the user then supports the boat motor  108  (shown in  FIG.  1   ) by positioning the motor support structure  118  against the boat motor  108 . 
     Even though a number of embodiments of the motor support  100  have been described as including spring-loaded latching mechanisms, other types of latching mechanisms may be used. For example, in one embodiment, the retention element  122 ,  222  may be movable between the closed position and the open position by way of an electrical signal (e.g., an electric switch). The electrical signal can be transferred from a switch at the motor end  104 , to a series of wires, and then to an electrical controller. In such an embodiment, the controller may be configured to control the retention element  122 ,  222 . In one embodiment, the retention element  122 ,  222  may be movable by way of an electrical solenoid. Manual levers or similar mechanical mechanisms may also be used to control the retention element  122 ,  222 . 
     In one embodiment, a method of attaching a motor support to a boat trailer further comprising pulling a rod to open the spring-loaded latching mechanism. In one embodiment, the method further comprising hooking the latching mechanism on the keel roller and allowing the latching mechanism to close under a spring bias. In one embodiment, the spring-loaded latching mechanism defines a latching arm and a latching pin, wherein the latching pin is operable against a bias of the spring. In one embodiment, the latching mechanism defines a first latch arm and a second latch arm, wherein the second latch arm is pivotable with respect to the first latch arm against a bias of the spring. 
     In one embodiment, the present patent application provides a motor support for a boat trailer. In one embodiment, the motor support comprises a support shaft configured to support, in a spaced-apart relationship, a motor of a boat with respect to the boat trailer; and a trailer end and a motor end, wherein the trailer end defines a latching mechanism configured for latching the trailer end of the motor support with respect to a portion of the boat trailer, the latching mechanism having an engagement portion and a retention portion, the retention portion being movable with respect to the engagement portion. In one embodiment, the engagement portion is a latching arm and the retention portion is a latching pin. 
       FIGS.  6 - 10    provide a system  1000  for supporting the motor  108  (as shown in  FIG.  1   ) of the boat  110  (as shown in  FIG.  1   ) with respect the boat trailer  106  (as shown in  FIG.  1   ) in accordance with another embodiment of the present patent application. The configuration of the system  1000  is same as that of the system  100  described with respect to  FIGS.  1 - 5   , except for some difference as noted below. 
     In one embodiment, the system  1000  includes a longitudinally extendable support shaft or member  1002  that is configured to be secured in a selected one of a plurality of extended positions. In one embodiment, the system  1000  includes a motor support  1004  disposed at a first end  1006  of the support shaft  1002  and a trailer connector  1032  disposed at a second end  1010  of the support shaft  1002 . In one embodiment, the trailer connector  1032  includes a releasable latch  1012  to connect the trailer connector  1032  to the boat trailer  106 . The trailer connector  1032  includes a manually engageable actuator  1021  that is configured to selectively latch or release the trailer connector  1032  from the boat trailer  106 . 
     In one embodiment, the motor support  1004  includes a support member  1050  having a generally V-shaped engagement portion  1052  (as clearly seen in  FIG.  8   ) that is constructed and arranged to frictionally engage a portion of the motor  108  of the boat  110 . In one embodiment, the motor support  1004  also includes a pair of adjustable support members  1054 ,  1056  extending from end portions of the support member  1050 . In one embodiment, the pair of adjustable support members  1054 ,  1056  are constructed and arranged to frictionally engage portions of the motor  108  of the boat  110 . In one embodiment, each of the adjustable support members  1054 ,  1056  and the corresponding end portions of the support member  1050  have openings that are configured to align on a same axis and to receive a lock member or pin (not shown) therein to lock each of the adjustable support members  1054 ,  1056  with their corresponding end portions of the support member  1050 . In one embodiment, the pair of adjustable support members  1054 ,  1056  are constructed and arranged to be pivotably adjustable with respect to their corresponding end portions of the support member  1050  and to support the portions of the motor  108  of the boat  110 . 
     In one embodiment, the motor support  1004  may be made of an appropriate metal (such as aluminum or steel) or other material of suitable strength. In one embodiment the motor support  1004  may be made of molded plastic material. In one embodiment, the motor support  1004  may be made of any other suitable material or combination of materials having sufficient durability to support the motor  108  of the boat  110  while maintaining structural stability of the system  1000 . In one embodiment, mechanical damping material (e.g., such as foam) may be attached to portions of the motor support  1004 . 
     In one embodiment, the motor support  1004  includes a connector portion  1046  extending outwardly therefrom. In one embodiment, the connector portion  1046  is constructed and arranged to be received by the end  1006  of the support shaft  1002 . In one embodiment, the end  1006  of the support shaft  1002  has an opening to receive the connector portion  1046  therein. In one embodiment, the connector portion  1046  of the motor support  1004  and the end  1006  of the support shaft  1002  each have corresponding openings that are configured to align on a same axis and to receive a lock member or pin (not shown) therein to lock the motor support  1004  with the support shaft  1002 . In one embodiment, the lock pin is a releasable lock pin configured to releasably lock the motor support  1004  with the support shaft  1002 . In one embodiment, the releasable locking arrangement between the motor support  1004  and the support shaft  1002  allows the user to use the same support shaft with different sized motor supports and/or with motor supports having different configurations. In one embodiment, the releasable locking arrangement between the motor support  1004  and the support shaft  1002  allows the user to replace just the motor support  1004  when it is worn out or damaged. In another embodiment, the motor support  1004  may be integrally formed with a first support member  1016  of the shaft member  1002 . For example, in one embodiment, the motor support  1004  may be integrally formed at the end  1006  of the first support member  1016  of the shaft member  1002 . 
     In one embodiment, the longitudinally extendable support shaft  1002  of the system  1000  includes the first support member  1016  that is constructed and arranged to support the motor  108  of the boat  110  and a second support member  1018  that is constructed and arranged to be releasably secured to a portion (e.g., keel roller  112  as shown in  FIG.  1   ) of the boat trailer  106 . 
     In one embodiment, the first and second support members  1016  and  1018  may be made of an appropriate metal (such as aluminum or steel) or other material of suitable strength. In one embodiment, the first and second support members  1016  and  1018  may be made of molded plastic material. In one embodiment, the first and second support members  1016  and  1018  may be made of any other suitable material or combination of materials having sufficient durability to support the motor  108  of the boat  110  (as shown in  FIG.  1   ) with respect the boat trailer  106  while maintaining structural stability of the system  1000 . In one embodiment, the first and second support members  1016  and  1018  may be made by an extrusion procedure. 
     In one embodiment, the first support member  1016  may be also referred to as the motor end support member. In one embodiment, the first support member  1016  includes the end  1006  and an opposing end (not shown). In one embodiment, the first support member  1016  is constructed and arranged to support the motor  108  of the boat  110  at the end  1006 . 
     In one embodiment, the first support member  1016  is generally hollow and has a generally circular cross-sectional configuration. In another embodiment, the first support member  1016  is generally solid and has a generally circular cross-sectional configuration. In yet another embodiment, the first support member  1016  may have other cross-sectional configurations. 
     In one embodiment, the first support member  1016  may include a stop member  1028  generally extending along (the longitudinal axis L-L of the support member  1002 ) a portion or the entire length of the first support member  1016  and generally extending outwardly from an outer or external surface  1029  of the first support member  1016 . In one embodiment, the stop member  1028  is in the form of a protrusion. In one embodiment, the stop member  1028  is constructed and arranged to be received by a stop member receiving portion  1030  of the second support member  1018  so as to prevent any relative rotation between the first support member  1016  and the second support member  1018 . In the illustrative embodiment, one stop member is shown. In one embodiment, the number of stop members may vary. For example, such stop members may be positioned circumferentially around the first support member  1016 . 
     In one embodiment, the first support member  1016  includes a plurality of lock components or lock engaging structures  1026   b  to lock the first support member  1016  with the second support member  1018 . In one embodiment, the lock engaging structures  1026   b  are in the form of holes, grooves, openings or notches to engage with a lock member  1024  of a lock assembly  1020  as will be described in detail below. 
     In one embodiment, the lock components or lock engaging structures  1026   b  are positioned on about one half of the length of the first support member  1016  that is closer to the end  1006 . In one embodiment, the lock components or lock engaging structures  1026   b  are positioned on about one third of the length of the first support member  1016  that is closer to the end  1006 . In one embodiment, the lock components or lock engaging structures  1026   b  are positioned on about one fourth of the length of the first support member  1016  that is closer to the end  1006 . In one embodiment, the lock components or lock engaging structures  1026   b  are positioned on about two thirds of the length of the first support member  1016  that is closer to the end  1006 . 
     In one embodiment, the second support member  1018  may be referred to as the boat trailer end support member. In one embodiment, the second support member  1018  includes the end  1010  and an opposing end (not shown). In one embodiment, the second support member  1018  is constructed and arranged to be releasably secured to a portion (e.g., kneel roller  112  as shown in  FIG.  1   ) of the boat trailer  106  at the end  1010 . 
     In one embodiment, the second support member  1018  is generally hollow and has a generally circular cross-sectional configuration. In another embodiment, the second support member  1018  may have other cross-sectional configurations. In one embodiment, the second support member  1018  includes the stop member receiving portion  1030  generally extending along (the longitudinal axis L-L of the support member  1002 ) a portion or the entire length of the second support member  1018 . In one embodiment, the stop member receiving portion  1030  is in the form of a groove. In one embodiment, the stop member receiving portion  1030  is an inwardly facing groove extending outwardly from the second support member  1018 . 
     In one embodiment, the stop member receiving portion  1030  is constructed and arranged to receive the stop member  1028  of the first support member  1016  therein so as to prevent any relative rotation between the first support member  1016  and the second support member  1018 . In the illustrative embodiment, one stop member receiving portion  1030  is shown. In another embodiment, the number of stop member receiving portions may vary. For example, such stop members may be positioned circumferentially around the second support member  1018  and configured to receive their corresponding stop members. 
     In another embodiment, the stop member receiving portion may be positioned on the first support member  1016  and is configured to receive the corresponding stop member positioned on the second support member  1018  so as to prevent any relative rotation between the first support member  1016  and the second support member  1018 . It is contemplated that the stop member receiving portion and the corresponding stop member may have other shapes, sizes and configurations as would be appreciated by one skilled in the art as long as they to prevent any relative rotation between the first support member  1016  and the second support member  1018 . 
     In one embodiment, the second support member  1018  includes a lock component or lock engaging structure  1026   a  that is constructed and arranged to align with one of the lock engaging structures  1026   b  of the first support member  1016  to accommodate and to allow the lock member  1024  of the lock assembly  1020  to be inserted into one of the lock engaging structures  1026   b  of the first support member  1016 , when the first support member  1016  is in the predetermined or desired longitudinally extended position with the second support member  1018 . 
     In one embodiment, the first support member  1016  is constructed and arranged to be received by and extending in and out of the second support member  1018  to facilitate longitudinal telescopic movement between the first and second support members  1016  and  1018 . 
     In one embodiment, the system  1000  includes the lock assembly  1020  that is constructed and arranged to selectively lock the first and second support members  1016  and  1018  at one of a plurality of longitudinally extended positions. That is, in one embodiment, the lock assembly  1020  is configured to lock the first support member  1016  and the second support member  1018  at a predetermined or desired longitudinally extended position. In one embodiment, the lock assembly  1020  includes the lock member  1024  that is movable between a first position and a second position. The lock member  1024  is linked to the lock components  1026  (e.g.,  1026   a ,  1026   b ) associated with the first and second support members  1016  and  1018  so that the movement of the lock member  1024  from the first position to the second position unlocks the lock assembly  1020  to enable the longitudinal telescopic movement between first and second support members  1016  and  1018 . 
     In one embodiment, the first support member  1016  is configured to be moved and adjusted longitudinally along the longitudinal axis L-L of the support member  1002  and with respect to the second support member  1018  in the plurality of longitudinally extended positions as desired by the user. 
     In one embodiment, the lock assembly  1020  includes a bias member. In one embodiment, the bias member is a spring. In one embodiment, the bias member of the lock assembly  1020  is constructed and arranged to be positioned between a manually engageable member  1021  (its structure and operation are described in detail below) and an outer or exterior surface  1031  of the second support member  1018 . In one embodiment, the lock member  1024  is held inserted in one of the plurality of lock engaging structures  1026   b  of the first support member  1016  by the bias member. Thus, the bias member is constructed and arranged to lock the lock assembly  1020  at a selected position and to prevent relative movement of the first and second support members  1016  and  1018 . 
     The operation of the lock assembly  1020  as described below. In one embodiment, the lock member  1024  is pulled against the force of the bias member, thus, the lock member  1024  is moved outwardly away from the lock engaging structure  1026   b  of the first support member  1016  unlocking the lock assembly  1020 . Once the lock member  1024  is withdrawn from the lock engaging structure  1026   b  of the first support member  1016 , the first and second support members  1016  and  1018  are extended slightly so that the lock engaging structure  1026   b  of the first support member  1016  no longer aligns with the lock engaging structure  1026   a  of the second support member  1018 , the force of bias member will cause the lock member  1024  to engage with the outer or exterior surface  1031  of the second support member  1018  and slide along this surface until the lock member  1024  becomes aligned with another or second lock engaging structure  1026   b  of the first support member  1016 . At this point, the bias of the bias member forces the lock member  1024  into the second lock engaging structure  1026   b  of the first support member  1016  to lock the lock member  1024  at this selected longitudinally extended position. 
     In another embodiment, the lock assembly  1020  may be in the form of an adjustment knob. For example, in one embodiment, the adjustment knob is turned to loosen the knob. The adjustment knob is then pulled to release its lock member  1024  from one of the plurality of lock engaging structures  1026   b  of the first support member  1016 . In one embodiment, the first support member  1016  and the second support member  1018  are then slid until the support shaft  1002  is at the user desired length. The adjustment knob is then released such that its lock member  1024  engages with the other of the plurality of lock engaging structures  1026  of the first support member  1016 . After adjusting the support shaft  1002  to the desired position and locking the support shaft or member  1002  at the desired length (by engaging its lock member  1024  with one of the plurality of lock engaging structures  1026   b  of the first support member  1016 ), the adjustment knob is tightened by the user. 
     In one embodiment, the system  1000  may include a stop to guide the lock member  1024  to be inserted into one of the lock engaging structures  1026   b  of the first support member  1016  and to prevent the lock member  1024  from traveling past the lock engaging structures  1026   b  of the first support member  1016 . In another embodiment, the stop is optional. 
     In one embodiment, the system  1000  includes generally inverted U-shaped member  1032 . In one embodiment, the inverted U-shaped member  1032  may also be referred to as the trailer connector. In one embodiment, the inverted U-shaped member  1032  is constructed and arranged to receive the portion  112  of the boat trailer  106  within the generally U-shaped configuration. In one embodiment, the inverted U-shaped member  1032  is positioned on the end  1010  of the support shaft  1002  or the second support shaft  1018 . 
     In one embodiment, the U-shaped member  1032  has a bight portion  1034  and a pair of leg members  1036  extending downwardly from the sides  1038  and  1040  of the bight portion  1032 . In one embodiment, the leg members  1038 ,  1040  are generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L-L of the support member  1002 . In one embodiment, the support shaft  1002  is constructed and arranged to be connected to one of the pair of leg members  1038 ,  1040  of the U-shaped member  1032 . 
     In one embodiment, the inverted U-shaped member  1032  includes a connector portion  1042  (as shown in  FIG.  7   ) extending outwardly from one of the leg members  1038 ,  1040 . In one embodiment, the connector portion  1042  is constructed and arranged to be received by the end portion  1010  of the second shaft member  1018 . In one embodiment, the end portion  1010  of the second shaft member  1018  has an opening to receive the connector portion  1042  therein. In one embodiment, the connector portion  1042  of the inverted U-shaped member  1032  and the end portion  1010  of the second shaft member  1018  each have corresponding openings that are configured to align on a same axis and to receive a lock pin  1044  therein to lock the inverted U-shaped member  1032  with the second shaft member  1018 . In one embodiment, the lock pin  1044  is a releasable lock pin configured to releasably lock the inverted U-shaped member  1032  with the second shaft member  1018 . In one embodiment, the releasable locking arrangement between the inverted U-shaped member  1032  and the second shaft member  1018  of the support shaft  1002  allows the user to use the same support shaft with different sized inverted U-shaped members and/or inverted U-shaped members with different configurations. In one embodiment, the releasable locking arrangement between the inverted U-shaped member  1032  and the second shaft member  1018  of the support shaft  1002  allows the user to replace just the inverted U-shaped member  1032  when it is worn out or damaged. In another embodiment, the inverted U-shaped member  1032  may be integrally formed with the second support member  1018  of the shaft member  1002 . In one embodiment, the inverted U-shaped member  1032  may be integrally formed at the end  1010  of the second support member  1018  of the shaft member  1002 . 
     In one embodiment, the system  1000  includes a releasable latch assembly  1048  that is constructed and arranged to releasably secure the inverted U-shaped member  1032  to the portion  112  of the boat trailer  106 . In one embodiment, the latch assembly  1048  includes the latch member  1012  moveable between a latched position and a released (or unlatched) position. In the latched position, the latch member  1012  is constructed and arranged to retain the portion  112  of the boat trailer  106  within the generally U-shaped configuration of the inverted U-shaped member  1032 . That is, in one embodiment, the latch member  1012  is constructed and arranged to connect the trailer connector  1032  to the boat trailer  106 . In one embodiment, the latch member  1012  is constructed and arranged to be movable in the direction of the longitudinal axis L-L of the support member  1002  between the latched position and the released position. In another embodiment, the latch member  1012  is constructed and arranged to be pivotable between the latched position and the released position. In one embodiment, the latch assembly  1048  includes a bias member  1097  (as shown in  FIG.  7   ) constructed and arranged to bias the latch member  1012  toward the latched position. In one embodiment, the bias member  1097  is a spring. 
     In one embodiment, the construction, components and operation of the latch assembly  1048  is similar to the latching mechanism  116  as described in detail with respect to  FIGS.  2 - 4    of the present patent application. For example, the latch assembly  1048  may include a release rod  1087  (e.g., similar to the rod  124  as shown in  FIGS.  1 - 4    and rod  224  as shown in  FIG.  5   ), the bias member  1097  (e.g., similar to the spring  132 ), the latch member  1012  (e.g., similar to the retention element  122  or  222 ), and a latch housing  1085  (e.g., similar to the latching cylinder  128  as shown in  FIGS.  1 - 4   ). Differences between the latch assembly  1048  and the latching mechanism  116  are noted below. 
     In one embodiment, the system  1000  includes the manually engageable member  1021  that is configured to selectively latch or release the trailer connector  1032  from the boat trailer  106 . In one embodiment, the manually engageable actuator  1021  is constructed and arranged to be moved to effect movement of the latch member  1012  between the latched position and the released position. 
     In one embodiment, the manually engageable member  1021  is constructed and arranged to slidably positioned on the second support member  1018 . In one embodiment, the manually engageable member  1021  is constructed and arranged to receive the second support member  1018  therein. In one embodiment, the manually engageable member  1021  includes a groove constructed and arranged to receive the stop member receiving portion  1030  of the second support member  1018  so as to prevent any relative rotation between the manually engageable member  1021  and the second support member  1018 . In one embodiment, the manually engageable member  1021  may be made of an appropriate metal (such as aluminum or steel) or other material of suitable strength. 
     In one embodiment, the manually engageable member  1021  includes an elongated opening  1025 . In one embodiment, the elongated opening  1025  is constructed and arranged to receive the lock member  1024  of the lock assembly  1020  therein. In one embodiment, a portion of the lock member  1024  extends through the elongated opening  1025  such that the manually engageable member  1021  is able to slidably move on the second support member  1018  to selectively latch or release the trailer connector  1032  from the boat trailer  106 . That is, the manually engageable member  1021  is constructed and arranged to travel over the lock member  1024  of the lock assembly  1020 . In one embodiment, the elongated opening  1025  includes a first end portion  1091  and a second end portion  1093 . 
     In one embodiment, the release rod  1087  is connected to a portion of the manually engageable member  1021  such that the slidable movement of the manually engageable member  1021  on the second support member  1018  causes the release rod  1087  to move along with the manually engageable member  1021 . 
     The operation of the manually engageable member  1021  is described in detail below. When the first support member  1016  and the second support member  1018  are locked at a predetermined or desired longitudinally extended position by the lock assembly  1020 , the lock member  1024  of the lock assembly  1020  is positioned at the first end portion  1091  of the elongated opening  1025 .  FIG.  9    shows the manually engageable member  1021  in its first position LP in which the lock member  1024  is at the first end portion  1091  of the elongated opening  1025 . 
     The manually engageable member  1021  is then manually actuated by a user to move the lock member  1012  from its latched position to its release position. In one embodiment, the user may manually slide the manually engageable member  1021  on the second support member  1018  in a direction of the arrow R (as shown in  FIG.  9   ) and towards the end  1006  of the support shaft  1002  to effect movement of the latch member  1012  from its latched position and its released position.  FIG.  9    shows the manually engageable member  1021  in its second position RP in which the lock member  1024  is at the second end portion  1093  of the elongated opening  1025 . 
     The operation and interaction of the release rod  1087 , the bias member  1085 , the latch member  1012  of the latch assembly  1048  are similar to those described with respect to  FIGS.  1 - 5   , and hence will not be described in detail here. For example, in one embodiment, pulling back or sliding the manually engageable member  1021  (from its first position LP to second position RP) on the second support member  1018  pulls the release rod  1087  along with it. This movement of the release rod  1087  causes the latch member  1012  (i.e., operatively connected to the release rod  1087 ) to be moved from its latched position to its released position as described in detail with respect to  FIGS.  1 - 5   . Once the latch member  1012  is moved to its released position, the trailer connector  1034  can slide over the keel roller  112  of the boat trailer  106 . 
     When the user releases the manually engageable member  1021 , the bias member  1085  causes the release rod  1087  and the manually engageable member  1021  operatively connected to the release rod  1087  to return to their original positions. For example, the bias of the bias member  1085  causes the manually engageable member  1021  to return to its original position LP. Also, as explained in detail with respect to  FIGS.  1 - 5   , the bias of the bias member  1085  causes the release rod  1087  and the latch member  1021  operatively connected to the release rod  1087  to return to their original/latched positions. 
     In one embodiment, the second support member  1018  includes a notch  1019  (as shown in  FIG.  10   ) that is constructed and arranged to receive the release rod  1087  of the latch assembly  1048  therein. In one embodiment, the notch  1019  is formed by an extrusion procedure on the outer surface  1031  of the second support member  1018 . In one embodiment, the notch  1019  is an outwardly facing groove extending inwardly from the outer surface  1031  of the second support member  1018 . In one embodiment, the notch  1019  generally extends along (the longitudinal axis L-L of the support member  1002 ) a portion or the entire length of the second support member  1018 . 
     In one embodiment, the second support member  1018  includes a cover member  1089  that is configured to cover or contain the release rod  1087  positioned in the notch  1019 . In one embodiment, the cover member  1089  may be integrally formed with the second support member  1018 . 
     Although the present patent application has been described in detail for the purpose of illustration, it is to be understood that such detail is solely for that purpose and that the present patent application is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but, on the contrary, is intended to cover modifications and equivalent arrangements that are within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. In addition, it is to be understood that the present patent application contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more features of any embodiment can be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment.