Patent Abstract:
Disclosed is a portable and adjustable trailer assembly that allows for easy assembling and de-assembling, foldability, portability, requiring small storage space, multi-functional utility, retrofittable to various vehicles, and at the same time light weight and cost effective. It comprises a frame assembly having a frame portion with front and rear ends, pivotally and hingedly coupled at its rear end to a first end of a platform portion, a second end of the platform portion coupled to a rear beam, the portions being releaseably locked with each other and folds out to configure a lateral plane when in operation, a wheel assembly mechanically coupled to the platform portion at its underneath; and a detachable and lockable drawbar assembly having first and second ends, mechanically coupled to the frame assembly at the first end and having means to connect to a tow vehicle at the second end.

Full Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
   The present invention relates to wheel trailers and more particularly relates to a portable and adjustable trailer assembly with multifunction removable drawbars that can be easily assembled and de-assembled to a foldable format to be transported with comfort. 
   BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   Trailers of the type having a platform surface, generally has at least one pair of wheels with, an axle and suspension, and the wheels are commonly used for commercial and domestic transportation purposes to carry a wide variety of goods; from one place to another, and typically pulled behind a car, truck, van, motorcycle or the like. Most often trailers are rented or are purchased outright. There are several problems associated with renting or owning a trailer. If the trailer is rented, one must first drive to the rental agency with the towing vehicle, upon which time the empty trailer will be attached to the towing vehicle. One will then drive the towing vehicle either home or to the destination of where one is picking up the items to be moved. The first problem is that one is towing an empty trailer which is hard to drive in traffic as it is low in height and not easily visible. Since it is not loaded, it is light and tends to hop and jump around, especially on rough roads or when hitting a hole or bump. This is a dangerous situation as one can lose control of the trailer resulting in a possible accident involving the trailer and the tow vehicle. 
   Once again after the item is delivered the empty trailer has to be returned to the rental agency. If the trailer is owned, one has to again return home or go to the place to pickup the item with an empty trailer, entailing an additional problem of its storage after use. In a house the garage ideally would serve as a storage place for most large trailers as storing the trailer outside would invite objections from communities. It has been observed that most people already have their garage full of lawn equipment, snow blowers, lawnmowers etc. and to store a trailer might be difficult, if not impossible. The normal trailer is a single unit, and is usually just a flat bed. 
   Many attempts have been made to address the above-mentioned issues relating to vehicle trailers, and to develop a trailer assembly that meet the requirements of portability, adaptability, retrofittability and transportability. 
   US Patent Publication No. 20030102655 discloses a folding with pivotally connected front, main and rear sections movable from an unfolded condition to a folded condition, in which the rear section pivots two hundred seventy degrees (270°) to lie atop the main section, and the front section pivots ninety degrees (90°) to nest within the main section. This provides a folded compact arrangement approximately forty-eight (48) by eighty (80) inches. When unfolded, the trailer produces an inside dimension of approximately sixty (60) by ninety-six (96) inches enabled by the front section thin walls that are interiorly nearly as wide as the main and rear sections. An extensible handle facilitates folding and unfolding the rear section. This patent is configurationally different from the present invention and does not address the above-cited issues in an effective manner. 
   U.S. Patent No. 20050093273 discloses a trailer assembly including a bed sub-assembly having a plurality of sections movably coupled to one another for permitting movement between an extended configuration and a folded configuration. In the folded configuration, the plurality of sections collectively form a bottom surface, an upper surface, and surrounding side walls of an enclosable compartment, at least one of the sections having an access member movable between an open position for permitting access to the compartment and a closed position for enclosing the compartment as the sections are maintained in the folded configuration. The trailer assembly optionally may include a wheel subassembly and drawbar, which may be freely and independently rotatable relative to one another and the bed sub-assembly. The configurational aspects of the trailer assembly with regard to the bed assembly, the optional features of wheel assembly and the draw bar does not address the requirement of a portable trailer assembly for meeting the space constraints and easy transportability. 
   The features of the aforecited prior art disclose a complex design and structural indices that hinder their performance in meeting the above-mentioned requirements. The prior arts does not provide a configuration that has simple structural indices for reliable operation i.e. can be easily assembled and de-assembled, can be easily folded and is portable enough to be carried and stored in a small space, multi-functional, retrofittable at the same time light weight and affordable too. Therefore, the present scenario is punctuated by an emerging need for a multipurpose, portable and adjustable trailer assembly that addresses these issues with effectiveness, ease and comfort. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the above-mentioned prior arts, the general purpose of the present invention is to provide an improved combination of convenience and utility, to include all the advantages of the prior arts, and to overcome the abovementioned disadvantages/drawbacks of the prior art. 
   It is therefore, a principal aspect of the present invention to provide a portable and adjustable trailer assembly that allows for easy assembling and de-assembling, foldability, portable enough to be carried and stored in a small space, multi-functional utility, retrofittable to various vehicles and at the same time light weight and affordable. 
   It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a portable and adjustable trailer assembly which comprises a frame portion and a platform portion releaseably lockable with each other and configuring a frame assembly thereof, a wheel assembly mechanically coupled to the platform portion at its underneath and a detachable and lockable draw bar assembly coupled to the frame assembly and having means to connect to a tow vehicle. The portable and adjustable trailer assembly is configured to be folded into the frame assembly and enables easy storage and transportation. 
   In yet another aspect the present invention provides for a portable and adjustable trailer assembly comprises a frame assembly having a frame portion with front and rear ends, pivotally and hingedly coupled at its rear end to a first end of a platform portion, the second end of the platform portion coupled to a rear beam, the portions being releaseably locked with each other and folds out to configure a lateral plane when in operation, a wheel assembly mechanically coupled to the platform portion at its underneath; and a detachable and lockable draw bar assembly having first and second ends, mechanically coupled to the frame assembly at the first end having means to connect to a tow vehicle at the second end. 
   In yet another aspect the present invention provides for a portable and adjustable trailer assembly wherein the means for coupling the detachable and lockable draw bar assembly to the frame assembly may include a box channel underneath the frame assembly, the channel extending completely underneath the frame portion and partially underneath the platform portion. The box channel further has means for coupling the detachable and lockable draw bar assembly to the frame assembly. 
   In yet another aspect the present invention provides for a method of operating a portable and adjustable trailer assembly having a frame assembly configuring a frame and platform portions with a box channel extending underneath therethrough, a wheel assembly with a pair of wheels, a detachable and lockable draw bar assembly with a draw bar and a chain having a pin, the method comprises keeping the portable and adjustable trailer assembly in an upright position, placing the platform portion on the ground and pushing a handle to outside of the frame portion, pushing a locking mechanism on each side of the frame portion enabling the frame portion to open up about ninety (90°) degrees on hinges connected to the platform portion, pulling completely slide bolts with pins on each side of the wheel assembly, pulling up one wheel and pushing the pin back in, repeating the same for the second wheel, configuring a draw bar with a welded bar, holding the draw bar upside down and pushing it into the box channel underneath the frame assembly until it gets locked in the box channel, configuring a two finger clamp on the frame portion and pushing the welded bar in the box channel until the welded bar fits into the two finger clamp, configuring a guide hole in the center of the box channel and inserting the chain pin into the guide hole and locking the same, picking up the portable and adjustable trailer assembly with the draw bar on the rear and tilting the assembly until the wheels touch the ground and coupling the portable and adjustable trailer assembly to a tow vehicle for transportation. 
   These together with other aspects of the present invention, along with the various features of novelty that characterize the invention, are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed hereto and forming a part of this disclosure. For a better understanding of the invention, its operating advantages and the specific objects attained by its uses, reference should be had to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there are illustrated exemplary embodiments of the invention. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     The advantages and features of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following more detailed description and claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like elements are identified with like symbols, and in which: 
       FIG. 1  is a side perspective view of a portable and adjustable trailer assembly  10 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 2  is a rear perspective view of the portable and adjustable trailer assembly  10 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 3  is a side perspective view of the portable and adjustable trailer assembly  10  depicting a tilted state, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 4  is a close-up view of a wheel/suspension assembly portion  40  of the portable and adjustable trailer assembly  10 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 5  is a front perspective view of the portable and adjustable trailer assembly  10  depicting a collapsed and portable state, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 6  is a bottom perspective view of the portable and adjustable trailer assembly  10  depicting a stored state, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 7   a  is a bottom perspective view of the portable and adjustable trailer assembly  10  depicting installation of a coupler/draw bar assembly  12  and an automobile drawbar assembly  70 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 7   b  is a bottom perspective view of the portable and adjustable trailer assembly  10  depicting a deployed and assembled state, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 7   c  is a close-up view of the portable and adjustable trailer assembly  10  depicting a drawbar receiver  61  and an automobile drawbar assembly  70  in an assembled state, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 7   d  is a close-up view of the portable and adjustable trailer assembly  10  depicting a drawbar receiver  61  and an automobile drawbar assembly  70  in a detached state, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 8   a  is a perspective view of the portable and adjustable trailer assembly  10  depicting a protective covering portion  80 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 8   b  is a top perspective view of a storage sack portion  83  of the portable and adjustable trailer assembly  10 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 8   c  is a close-up view of an enclosure strap portion  82  of the protective covering  80 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 9  is a side perspective view of a motorcycle embodiment  86  depicting a motorcycle drawbar  71 , according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 10  is a side perspective view of a garden cart embodiment  87  depicting a garden-cart drawbar  72  and hard wagon sides  93 , according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 11  is a side perspective view of a bicycle carrier embodiment  88  depicting a bicycle carrier  75 , according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 12  is a side perspective view of a snow/ski embodiment  89  depicting a snow ski  90  configuration, according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 13   a  is a close-up view of a wheel suspension assembly  40  depicting an unlatched state, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; and, 
       FIG. 13   b  is a close-up view of a wheel suspension assembly  40  depicting a latched state, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. 
   

   DESCRIPTIVE KEY 
   
     
       
             
             
           
         
             
                 
             
           
           
             
               10 
               portable and adjustable trailer assembly 
             
             
               11 
               coupler locking handle 
             
             
               12 
               coupler/draw bar assembly 
             
             
               16 
               handle 
             
             
               17 
               1⅞ inch ball-coupler 
             
             
               18 
               first pivot 
             
             
               19 
               first locking mechanism 
             
             
               20 
               front platform 
             
             
               21 
               stake pole apertures 
             
             
               22 
               reflective tape 
             
             
               23 
               second pivot 
             
             
               25 
               fender 
             
             
               26 
               bumper 
             
             
               30 
               rear platform 
             
             
               40 
               wheel/suspension assembly 
             
             
               41 
               suspension arm 
             
             
               42 
               tire 
             
             
               43 
               wheel 
             
             
               44 
               propeller spoke 
             
             
               45 
               suspension housing 
             
             
               46 
               suspension member 
             
             
               47 
               third pivot 
             
             
               48 
               suspension member anchor 
             
             
               49 
               second locking mechanism 
             
             
               50 
               rear beam 
             
             
               51 
               tail light 
             
             
               52 
               license plate light assembly 
             
             
               53 
               license plate holder 
             
             
               54 
               wing nut 
             
             
               55 
               license plate light 
             
             
               56 
               safety chain 
             
             
               57 
               female electrical receptacle 
             
             
               58 
               male electrical receptacle 
             
             
               59 
               vehicle electrical cable 
             
             
               60 
               front platform stiffener 
             
             
               61 
               drawbar receiver 
             
             
               62 
               drawbar latch aperture 
             
             
               63 
               drawbar latch 
             
             
               64 
               drawbar latch bracket 
             
             
               65 
               drawbar latch locking pin 
             
             
               66 
               drawbar latching handle 
             
             
               67 
               drawbar mounting bracket 
             
             
               68 
               rear platform stiffener 
             
             
               70 
               automobile drawbar assembly 
             
             
               71 
               motorcycle drawbar assembly 
             
             
               72 
               garden-cart drawbar assembly 
             
             
               73 
               garden-cart dolly 
             
             
               74 
               garden-cart wheel 
             
             
               75 
               bicycle carrier 
             
             
               76 
               vertical plate 
             
             
               77 
               horizontal plate 
             
             
               78 
               bicycle attachment mechanism 
             
             
               80 
               protective cover assembly 
             
             
               81 
               enclosure 
             
             
               82 
               enclosure strap 
             
             
               83 
               storage sack 
             
             
               84 
               draw string 
             
             
               85 
               tubular frame 
             
             
               86 
               motorcycle embodiment 
             
             
               87 
               garden-cart embodiment 
             
             
               88 
               bicycle carrier embodiment 
             
             
               89 
               snow/ski embodiment 
             
             
               90 
               ski 
             
             
               91 
               ski bracket 
             
             
               92 
               ski hoop 
             
             
               93 
               hard wagon sides 
             
             
               94 
               wagon slats 
             
             
               95 
               wagon stake pole 
             
             
               96 
               wagon pull handle 
             
             
               97 
               tailgate 
             
             
               100 
               attachment/fastener 
             
             
               110 
               vehicle 
             
             
               120 
               bicycle 
             
             
               121 
               slot 
             
             
               122 
               locking bolt aperture 
             
             
               123 
               drawbar bracket latch 
             
             
               124 
               platform clip 
             
             
               125 
               locking bar 
             
             
               126 
               locking bolt 
             
             
               127 
               locking receiver 
             
             
               128 
               locking groove 
             
             
               129 
               ski strap 
             
             
               130 
               license plate 
             
             
                 
             
           
        
       
     
   
   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
   The best mode for carrying out the invention is presented in terms of its preferred embodiment, herein depicted within  FIGS. 1 through 8   b ,  13   a  and  13   b , and alternate embodiments as depicted in  FIGS. 9 through 12 . However, the invention is not limited to the described embodiment, and a person skilled in the art will appreciate that many other embodiments of the invention are possible without deviating from the basic concept of the invention and that any such work around will also fall under scope of this invention. It is envisioned that other styles and configurations of the present invention can be easily incorporated into the teachings of the present invention, and only one particular configuration shall be shown and described for purposes of clarity and disclosure and not by way of limitation of scope. 
   The terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. 
   The present invention describes a device and method for a portable and adjustable trailer assembly (herein described as the “apparatus”)  10 , which provides a means for a foldable two-section trailer platform and a removable drawbar assembly  12  providing a means to attach to a conventional ball hitch assembly  17 . While the apparatus  10  is in a folded state, a handle  16  is provided allowing easy transportation. The apparatus  10  further comprises an elastic link suspension  40 , a canopy cover assembly  80 , and typical trailer features such as lighting  51 , safety chains  56 , and a removable license plate bracket  53 . Additional embodiments of the present invention  10  include hard wagon-like sides  93  and multiple use drawbar assemblies  71 ,  72 ; however, it is understood that the apparatus  10  is not limited to the depicted embodiments and may be used to transport any number of cargo and equipment items such as small boats, jet skis, motorcycles, and the like providing benefit to a user. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 1 , a side perspective view of the apparatus  10 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The apparatus  10  comprises an automobile drawbar  70 , a first pivot  18 , a first locking mechanism  19 , a front platform  20 , a rear platform  30 , a pair of second pivots  23 , reflective tape  22 , four (4) stake pole apertures  21 , and four (4) slots  121 . 
   The apparatus  10  is envisioned being made using light-weight cast, extruded, and sheet materials such as aluminum or carbon fiber and utilizing a plurality of attachment/fasteners  100  such as rivets, welding, screws, bolts, and the like forming a rugged assembly capable of withstanding anticipated stress and vibration resulting from high-speed travel over highway and/or rough surfaces during use. 
   The automobile drawbar  70  provides a two-piece hinging assembly comprising a first pivot  18  and a first locking mechanism  19  at an intermediate location. The automobile drawbar  70 , when folded, provides a compact storage means as well as providing a tilting means to aid loading/unloading of the apparatus  10  (see  FIG. 3 ). The automobile drawbar  70  further comprises additional features common to trailer hitches such as a 1⅞ inch ball-coupler  17 , safety chains  56 , and a coupler locking handle  11 . 
   The front  20  and rear  30  platforms provide a hinged attachment to one another via a pair of second pivots  23  forming a continuous platform being approximately four (4) feet wide and approximately five (5) feet in length. Said platforms  20 ,  30  are envisioned being made using light-weight rugged aluminum alloy plate comprising a stiffening and strengthening rectangular edge detail projecting downward approximately two (2) to three (3) inches all around made using like materials incorporating fabrication processes such as casting, welding, and/or bending processes. A plurality of attachment/fasteners  100  provide a strong connecting means therebetween elements of the front  20  and rear  30  platforms using rivets, bolts, welding, or equivalent methods. The reflective tape  22  provides sufficient night-time visibility to the apparatus  10  being affixed thereupon said platforms  20 ,  30  using various adhesives and being located upon a plurality of outer vertical side surfaces in conformance with federal, state, and local transportation regulations. 
   Located adjacent to four (4) top corners of the assembled platforms  20 , are four (4) integral stake pole apertures  21  comprising rectangular vertical openings approximately one (1) to two (2) inches square which are particularly sized to receive a stake pole  95  therein (see  FIG. 10 ). Each stake pole aperture  21  further comprises a section of square aluminum alloy tubing approximately three (3) inches long being welded in a vertical orientation thereto a bottom surface of said platforms  20 ,  30  along an outer edge thereof (see  FIG. 6 ). Adjacent thereto the stake pole apertures  21  are four (4) slots  121  machined or formed therethrough said platforms  20 ,  30  being approximately four (4) inches long and one-half (½) inch wide being parallel thereto outer side edges of said platforms  20 ,  30 . The slots  121  provide an attachment means thereto cargo, equipment, and a protective cover assembly  80  (see  FIGS. 8   a  through  8   c ). 
   Referring now to  FIG. 2 , a rear perspective view of the apparatus  10 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The apparatus  10  comprises a rear platform  30 , a rear beam  50 , a pair of taillights  51 , a plurality of attachment/fasteners  100 , and a license plate light assembly  52 . 
   The rear platform  30  provides an attachment means along a rear vertical surface to the rear beam  50  via a plurality of corrosion-resistant attachment/fasteners  100  such as nuts, bolts, and the like. Said rear beam  50  comprises a channel-shaped aluminum alloy member positioned in a vertical orientation being approximately six (6) inches high being similar to a common trailer bumper. The channel-shaped feature of the rear beam  50  provides a protective mounting means to a pair of tail lights  51  being located therein a recessed portion at opposing ends of said rear beam  50 . The tail lights  51  are envisioned to be commercially available weather-proof sealed devices providing standard illumination functions such as turning, reverse, and parking indicators in accordance with federal, state, and local transportation regulations. The license plate holder assembly  52  comprises a removably attachable “L”-shaped aluminum alloy assembly affixed thereto a lower inside edge of said rear beam  50 , thereby providing fast and easy installation or disassembly. The license plate holder assembly  52  comprises a pair of formed horizontal surfaces at each side thereupon for attachment to said rear beam using corrosion-resistant attachment/fasteners  100  such as bolts, wing nuts, and the like. The license plate holder assembly  52  further comprises a vertical license plate holder  53  suitable to mount a standard license plate  130  and license plate light  55 . The license plate light  55  is located at an upper intermediate position and envisioned to comprise a common automotive illuminating device providing expected wiring and connectors and being similar to those used on various utility trailers, automobiles, and the like. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 3 , a side perspective view of the apparatus  10  depicting a tilted state, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The apparatus  10  comprises a coupler/drawbar assembly  12 , an automobile drawbar assembly  70 , a first pivot  18 , a first locking mechanism  19 , and a vehicle electrical cable  59 . The first pivot  18  provides a tilting means to the apparatus  10  when attached thereto an automobile  110  providing easy loading and unloading of various equipment, wheeled vehicles, and the like. The first pivot  18  comprises a fixed axial connecting member therebetween the coupler/drawbar assembly  12  and the automobile drawbar  70 . Adjacent to said first pivot  18  is a first locking mechanism  19  comprising a second connecting member via a detachable pin device such as a quick-release pin, bolt/nut, or other type of secure attachment/fasteners  100 . Once removed, the first locking mechanism  19  provides an angular tilting connection thereabout the first pivot  18 . The automobile drawbar  70  comprises a rugged rectangular tubing member made preferably using steel or aluminum alloys. The vehicle electrical cable  59  is routed therein the automobile drawbar  70  and exiting adjacent to the first pivot  18  at an open end portion of said automotive drawbar  70 . The vehicle electrical cable  59  provides a termination comprising a standard multi-prong connector with ground. The vehicle electrical cable  59  further comprises bundled copper conductors providing communication of a 12-volt electrical current to the aforementioned tail lights  51  and license plate lights  55  via common insulated copper conductors. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 4 , a close-up view of a wheel/suspension assembly portion  40  of the apparatus  10 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The wheel/suspension assembly  40  comprises a suspension housing  45 , a second locking mechanism  49 , a suspension member  46 , a pair of suspension member anchors  48 , a third pivot  47 , a suspension arm  41 , a fender  25 , a wheel  43 , a plurality of propeller spokes  44 , and a tire  42 . The wheel/suspension assembly  40  comprises a foldable deployable wheel assembly providing an adjustable resistance suspension system customizable to a variety of loading scenarios. The suspension housing  45  comprises a sturdy open-bottomed metal enclosure providing a mounting means to the second locking mechanism  49 . The second locking mechanism  49  provides a manual attachment means between the suspension housing  45  and the rear platform  30  providing a hinging and locking axial connection along an outer portion of the rear platform  30  (see  FIGS. 13   a  and  13   b ). Also located at a lower rear position upon said suspension housing  45  is the third pivot  47 . The third pivot  47  comprises a fixed axial pin device providing a rotating attachment means to the suspension arm  41  thereupon. The suspension arm  41  comprises a rugged fork-shaped load-bearing member designed to straddle the wheel assembly  43  and terminating at an axle connection thereupon. The suspension arm  41  is depicted as an aluminum alloy casting comprising integrally-molded strengthening ribs common in the industry. As the suspension arm  41  moves in an angular manner with respect to the suspension housing  45 , pivoting about the third pivot  47 , a flexible suspension member  46  provides a load bearing and suspension control means being in an increasing tensile condition as a load is applied to the apparatus  10 . The flexible suspension member  46  comprises a rugged oval-shaped rubber link-type device similar to like devices used in exercise equipment. Said flexible suspension member  46  is secured to both the suspension housing  45  and the suspension arm  41  via a pair of suspension member anchors  48 . The suspension member anchors  48  comprise removably attachable axial devices inserted therethrough female features of said suspension members  46 . The suspension member anchors  48  are envisioned to be of sufficient length being capable of securing one (1) or more suspension members  46  thereupon, thereby enabling customization of the wheel/suspension assembly  40  to particular loading scenarios. 
   The suspension arm  41  further provides an attachment means to an attachable fender  25  providing protection of the apparatus  10  and cargo from dirt or debris during travel in an expected manner. The suspension arm  41  projects generally downward and further provides an attachment means to a wheel  43  and tire  42  assembly via expected features such as a spindle/axle, spindle/axle hardware, high-speed inner and outer sealed bearings, dust caps, castellated nuts, and cotter pins common in the industry. The wheel  43  is envisioned to be made using light-weight aluminum alloys and further comprising a plurality of propeller-shaped spokes  44  which provide an air displacement means moving air in an outward direction from the apparatus  10  when in motion, thereby providing additional cooling to the wheels  43  and tires  42 . Additionally, said outward air flow creates a partial vacuum, thereby causing a downward force upon the apparatus  10 . Said down force is envisioned to be similar to that of race cars which adds stability thereto the apparatus  10  during transport. The tires  43  comprise a pair of common high-speed small diameter multi-ply pneumatic tires  42 . 
   Referring now to  FIG. 5 , a front perspective view of the portable and adjustable trailer assembly  10  depicting a collapsed and portable state, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The apparatus  10  is illustrated here being pivotally collapsed via rotation about a pair of second pivots  23 . The apparatus  10  comprises a pair of internal platform clips  124  to hold the platforms  20 ,  30  in intimate contact thereto one another (see  FIG. 6 ). The apparatus  10  further comprises a heavy-duty textile handle  16 . The handle  16  provides a manual carrying means to the apparatus  10  when in the stored state enabling portability and convenient storage in an automobile trunk, a closet, or the like. The handle  16  comprises an attachment means to the front  20  and rear  30  platforms upon a bottom surface and being made using plastic or textile materials of a flexible nature so as to be displaced inwardly during assembly of the apparatus  10 , thereby allowing intimate contact of said platforms  20 ,  30  (see  FIG. 6 ). 
   Referring now to  FIG. 6 , a bottom perspective view of the apparatus  10  depicting a stored state, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The apparatus  10  as illustrated here shows the wheel/suspension assemblies  40  in their folded state being rotated fully and resting against the rear platform  30 . Also shown is the attachment portion of the aforementioned handle  16  thereon the front  20  and rear  30  platforms. Additionally, the front platform  20  is illustrated being rotated about the pair of second pivots  23  to approximately a 90 degree angle with respect to the rear platform  30 . The apparatus  10  also comprises a pair of rubber bumpers  26  and a plurality of attachment/fasteners  100 . The rubber bumpers  26  are affixed along an inner surface of the front platform  20  being coincidental to the center of each wheel  43  providing protection thereto said front platform  20  from protruding features thereupon the wheel/suspension assemblies  40 . A plurality of attachment/fasteners  100  located along a common lower edge of the platforms  20 ,  30  provide a strong coplanar assembly of said platforms  20 ,  30 . The rear platform  30  further comprises a rear platform stiffener  68  which provides lower support thereto said rear platform  30  along a longitudinal centerline thereof. The rear platform stiffener  68  comprises two (2) parallel metal flat stock elements approximately one (1) to two (2) inches high and approximately one-quarter (¼) inch thick. The parallel elements of the rear platform stiffener  68  are divergent at forward and trailing ends thereof and are affixed using common attachment/fasteners  100  thereto said rear platform  30  along the rear beam  50  and along a forward edge thereof. The rear platform stiffener  68  also provide a wire anchoring means thereto vehicle electrical cables  59  routed therebetween a drawbar receiver  61  and the two (2) tail light assemblies  51  (see  FIGS. 7   a  through  7   d ). Said vehicle electrical cables  59  are envisioned being secured thereto the rear platform stiffener  68  using standard wire dressing devices such as tie-wraps, wire clips, or the like. 
   The rear platform  30  further provides an attachment means thereto a pair of platform clips  124 . The platform clips  124  provide a clasping means securing the front platform  20  thereto the rear platform  30  forming a compact configuration thereto the apparatus  10  when in the folded and stored state, thereby aiding manual transportation of the apparatus  10 . The platform clips  124  are affixed thereto rear inside corners of the rear platform  30  using common attachment/fasteners  100 . The platform clips  124  comprise a pair of finger-shaped appendages having particular contoured features so as to securely latch thereto a corresponding edge profile of the front platform  20 . 
   Referring now to  FIGS. 7   a  through  7   d , various perspective views of the apparatus  10  depicting deployment and installation of a coupler/drawbar assembly  12  and an automobile drawbar assembly  70 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, are disclosed. The apparatus  10  comprises a coupler/drawbar assembly  12 , an automobile drawbar assembly  70 , a front platform stiffener  60 , and a drawbar receiver  61 . 
   The coupler/drawbar assembly  12  further comprises a sturdy structural member made using rectangular or channel shapes being approximately two (2) inches square providing an attachment means to a 1⅞ inch ball-coupler  17 , a coupler locking handle  11 , and safety chains  56 . The 1⅞ inch ball-coupler  17  is envisioned to be a standard ball coupler commonly used on light-duty utility trailers comprising expected features such as a locking handle  11 , a ball hitch captivating device, a lever type handle, a locking safety pin, a security chain, and safety chains  56 . The coupler/drawbar assembly  12  also provides an attachment means to the automobile drawbar assembly  70  via a first pivot  18  and a first locking mechanism  19  as previously described (see  FIG. 3 ). 
   The automobile drawbar assembly  70  further comprises a sturdy rectangular structural member similar to the aforementioned coupler/drawbar assembly  12 . The automobile drawbar assembly  70  provides a strong attachment to the front  20  and rear  30  platforms along a lower surface via an engaging and latching means. The automobile drawbar assembly  70  comprises a pair of drawbar mounting brackets  67 , a drawbar pin  122 , a drawbar latch  63 , a drawbar latch bracket  64 , a drawbar latch locking pin  65 , a drawbar latching handle  66 , and an internal multi-pin female electrical receptacle  57 . The front platform stiffener  60  comprises a sturdy aluminum tubular member providing structural rigidity to the front platform  20  along a longitudinal centerline. The front platform stiffener  60  is attached at an intermediate lateral position along a lower surface of the front platform  20  spanning from a forward edge to a rear edge thereupon. The front platform stiffener  60  is envisioned to be attached to the front platform  20  using attachment/fasteners  100 , welding processes, or the like. 
   The drawbar receiver  61  comprises a stationary horizontal tubular member affixed thereto the rear platform  30  adjacent thereto the platform stiffener portion  68  along a lower surface thereof. The drawbar receiver  61  further comprises an internal multi-pin male electrical receptacle  58 . The automobile drawbar assembly  70  provides a slidingly engaging means thereinto a drawbar receiver  61  during an assembly process. The drawbar receiver  61  comprises an inner space particularly sized to receive said automobile drawbar assembly  70  therewithin. During insertion of the automobile drawbar assembly  70  thereinto the drawbar receiver  61 , coincidental engagement occurs between the drawbar mounting bracket portions  67  horizontal drawbar pin portions  122  of the automobile drawbar assembly  70  and corresponding hook-shaped drawbar bracket pin latch portions  123  affixed thereto the front platform stiffener  60 . Also in coincidental engagement are the female receptacle portion  57  of the drawbar assembly  70  and the male receptacle portion  58  of the drawbar receiver  61  providing an electrical connection means. Said receptacles  57 ,  58  provide an intermediate detachable connection thereof a plurality of vehicle electrical cables  59  routed thereto the tail lights  51  and license plate lights  55 . Said male  57  and female  58  receptacles comprise rectangular molded plastic electrical connectors specifically sized to fit snugly therewithin the rectangular drawbar assembly  70  and drawbar receiver  61 , respectively, being affixed thereto using common attachment/fasteners  100 . Said receptacles  57 ,  58  are envisioned to provide a plurality of conductors including a ground wire in an expected manner. The drawbar latch  63  and the drawbar latch aperture  62  are located along an upper surface of the drawbar receiver  61  and provide secured attachment of the automobile drawbar assembly  70  thereto the drawbar receiver  61 . The drawbar latch  63  comprises a linear member with a hook-shaped latching device made using metal flat stock. The drawbar latch  63  provides a pivoting axial attachment at an intermediate location to the automobile drawbar assembly  70  via a drawbar latch bracket  64  which further provides an integral spring-loaded drawbar latch locking pin  65  and corresponding slot therein said drawbar latch bracket  64  providing a securing means holding said drawbar latch  63  in an inserted and locked position within the drawbar latch aperture  62 . A form-fitting drawbar latching handle  66  provides a grasping and gripping means to aid in manual operation of the drawbar latch  63  and is envisioned to being made using a soft rubber or plastic material and providing finger relief features. 
   The drawbar mounting brackets  67  comprise a pair of “L”-shaped brackets providing attachment of the automobile drawbar assembly  70  thereto the drawbar bracket latches  123  located along the front platform stiffener  60 . The drawbar mounting brackets  67  comprise opposing welded fixtures being perpendicular to the main axis of the automobile drawbar assembly  70  and in direct contact with a forward edge of the front platform  20  being affixed thereto using attachment/fasteners  100 . 
   Referring now to  FIGS. 8   a  through  8   c , perspective views of the portable and adjustable trailer assembly  10  depicting a protective covering  80  and storage sack portion  83 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, are disclosed. The protective covering  80  provides a water-proof protection means to equipment and cargo being transported using the apparatus  10 . The protective covering  80  further comprises a tubular internal frame  85 , an enclosure  81 , four (4) enclosure straps  82 , and a storage sack  83 . The tubular frame  85  defines a box-shaped form generally corresponding to an outline of the platforms  20 ,  30  and being approximately three (3) to four (4) feet high. The tubular frame  85  is envisioned to be made using rigid light-weight aluminum tubing approximately one (1) inch in diameter utilizing a common tube and socket type construction and may be provided with various attachment devices such as bolts, quick-release pins, ball/detent fasteners, or the like. The enclosure  81  provides a six-sided weather-proof barrier around the tubular frame  85  and included cargo. The enclosure  81  is envisioned to provide further protection via a floor portion, an integral weather-resistant zipper along an intermediate perimeter thereon, and a protective flap covering said zipper. The enclosure  81  provides attachment thereto the platforms  20 ,  30  via the sewn-in enclosure straps  82  routed therethrough the slots  121  and located along side surfaces of the enclosure  81  at front and rear positions thereon. Each enclosure strap  82  comprises a pair of rugged latching textile straps affixed and sewn thereto the protective cover assembly  80  along adjacent external floor and outer face surfaces and attached thereto one another using common strapping fixtures such as a latching and length adjusting buckle. The enclosure straps  82  are specifically positioned in alignment thereto the four (4) aforementioned slots  121  located along a top surface of the front  20  and rear  30  platforms. The enclosure  81  comprises water-proof textile or vinyl materials and is envisioned to be attached thereto the tubular frame members  85  using hook-and-loop or similar fasteners, being sewn along inside and perimeter surfaces of said enclosure  81 . The enclosure  81  is further envisioned to be provided in a variety of colors and patterns based upon user&#39;s preferences. 
   The storage sack  83  provides a water-proof cylindrical protective enclosure to the protective cover assembly  80  when disassembled and is envisioned to include expected features such as sealed seams, a carrying handle, a draw string  84 , a cord locking device, and the like. The storage sack  83  is further envisioned to be constructed using a soft pliable weather-resistant fabric or extruded plastic sheeting material and introduced in similar colors and patterns as the protective cover assembly  80 . 
   Referring now to  FIG. 9 , a side perspective view of a motorcycle embodiment  86  depicting a motorcycle drawbar  71 , according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The motorcycle drawbar  71  is installed and attached in like manner as the automobile drawbar  70 . The motorcycle drawbar  71  provides a coupler/drawbar assembly  12  at an elevated height. The motorcycle drawbar  71  comprises an upward curving “S”-shaped profile providing attachment to a motorcycle so as to clear a rear tire portion of said motorcycle. The motorcycle drawbar  71  is envisioned to comprise all components and functionality as the aforementioned automobile drawbar  70 . The motorcycle drawbar  71  is further envisioned to be introduced in a variety of different arcuate profiles being correspondingly suitable to various makes and models of motorcycles on the market. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 10 , a side perspective view of a garden cart embodiment  87  depicting a garden-cart drawbar  72  and hard wagon sides  93 , according to alternate embodiments of the present invention, is disclosed. The garden-cart drawbar assembly  72  provides a manual means to manually direct and propel the apparatus  10  locally over paved surfaces or terra firma. The garden-cart drawbar assembly  72  comprises a pivoting garden-cart dolly  73 , a pair of garden-cart wheels  74 , and a wagon pull handle  96 . The garden-cart drawbar assembly  72  is installed and attached thereto the apparatus  10  in like manner as the automobile drawbar  70 . The garden-cart drawbar  72  comprises a downward curving “S”-shaped profile extending outward and attached thereto a garden-cart dolly  73 . The garden-cart dolly  73  comprises similar construction as the front wheels of a child&#39;s play wagon providing large rubber treaded wheels  74  and expected features such as a vertical turning axle, a thrust bearing, and a swiveling and vertically pivoting pull-handle  96  providing common gripping and pulling features. 
   The hard wagon sides  93  provide a containing and protective enclosure for the transport of less stable equipment and materials thereupon the apparatus  10  such as gravel, sand, or the like. The hard wagon sides  93  comprise continuous side panels further comprising a plurality of horizontal wagon slats  94  along all four (4) sides. The hard wagon sides  93  are further envisioned to comprise a rear dumping gate  97  comprising upper hinging and lower latching features in an expected manner. The wagon slats  94  are envisioned to be made using durable materials such as wood, vinyl, fiberglass, composite materials, or the like, being attached thereto the apparatus  10  via a series of internal vertical stake poles  95  using a plurality of common attachment/fasteners  100 . Said vertical stake poles  95  comprise male features at a lower portion thereof being particularly sized so as to insert therein the aforementioned stake pole apertures  21 . The wagon slats  94  are depicted here without gaps therebetween; however, it is envisioned that said wagon slats  94  may be introduced with gaps or as single-piece continuous panels and as such should not be interpreted as a limiting factor of the present invention  10 . 
   Referring now to  FIG. 11 , side perspective view of a bicycle carrier embodiment  88  depicting a bicycle carrier  75 , according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The bicycle carrier  75  comprises a sturdy three-piece assembly comprising a vertical plate  76 , a horizontal plate  77 , and a bicycle attachments mechanism  78 . Said plates  76 ,  77  are envisioned to provide an adjustable support means thereto a variety of bicycle styles  120  being made using light weight materials such as steel or aluminum plate and joined using attachment methods such as welding or a plurality of corrosion-resistant attachment/fasteners  100 . The vertical plate  76  comprises a slotted female feature along a top portion therein providing a captivating profile thereto a bicycle crank portion  120 . The front  20  and rear  30  platforms provide an attachment means thereto the bicycle carriers  75  via a plurality of attachment/fasteners  100  located along a separation line therebetween the front  20  and rear  30  platforms. The apparatus  10  is illustrated here showing four (4) pairs of attachment/fasteners  100 ; however, any number of bicycle carriers  75  and corresponding attachment/fasteners  100  may be provided and as such should not be interpreted as a limiting factor of the invention  10 . The bicycle carrier  75  further comprises an attachment means to the rear platform  30  via a bicycle attachment mechanism  78  providing a secure attachment thereto a rearward edge of the rear platform  30  envisioned to comprise a common swivel latch and wing-nut device. Additionally, said platforms  20 ,  30  comprise four (4) slots  121  providing additional mounting means thereto said bicycles  120  and bicycle carriers  75  thereto the platforms  20 ,  30  using common fastening devices such as latches, strap and buckle assemblies, corrosion-resistant attachment/fasteners  100 , bungee-cords, ratcheting tie-downs, hook-and-loop straps, or the like as required. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 12 , side perspective view of a snow/ski embodiment  89  depicting a snow ski  90  configuration, according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The apparatus  10  is depicted here utilizing a pair of commercially available replacement snowmobile skis  90  comprising attachment brackets  91 , front hoops  92  for manually manipulating said skis  90 , and a pair of flexible ski straps  129  to maintain said skis  90  in a level position during use. The flexible ski straps  129  are envisioned to comprise common rubber or cloth-covered rubber cords fastened thereto the skis  90  using common hooks or eyelets. It is envisioned that all other features and functions of the apparatus  10  are to be similar to the preferred embodiment of the apparatus  10 . 
   Referring now to  FIGS. 13   a  and  13   b , close-up views of a wheel suspension assembly  40  depicting latched and unlatched states, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, are disclosed. The wheel suspension assembly  40  comprises a locking bar  125 , a locking bolt aperture  122 , a second locking mechanism  49 , a locking bolt  126 , a locking receiver  127 , and a suspension housing  45 . The second locking mechanism  49  provides an external manual manipulation means thereto the locking bolt  126  being similar thereto a locking bolt commonly used on doorways. The second locking mechanism  49  is affixed thereto the locking bolt  126  via a press fit or threaded connection. The second locking mechanism  49  comprises a dowel pin approximately one-quarter (¼) inch in diameter which protrudes perpendicularly outward and extending therethrough a locking groove  128  allowing a lateral sliding motion of the second locking mechanism  49  within the locking groove  128 . Lateral movement of the second locking mechanism  49  causes said locking bolt  126  to move back-and-forth being slidingly inserted therein the locking bolt aperture  122  which comprises a laterally drilled hole therethrough the locking bar  125  across a rectangular locking receiver  127  formed along a forward outer edge of the rear platform  30 . Said locking receiver  127  provides a female rectangular cavity so as to snuggly receive the locking bar portion  125  of the suspension housing  45 . While the wheel/suspension assembly  40  is in the deployed and perpendicular position, the locking bar  125  is positioned therewithin the locking receiver  127 , respectively. Said locking bolt  126  is slidingly inserted therein the locking bolt aperture  122  may be slidingly inserted therein an integral bored hole located therein the rear platform  30 , thereby locking the locking bar  125  and wheel/suspension assembly  40  into a deployed position being perpendicular to the rear platform  30  as illustrated in  FIG. 13   b . While in the locked position, the locking bolt  126  is hidden, thereby allowing the front platform  20  to rotate about the second pivots  23  thereinto a coplanar position with regards to the rear platform  30 . 
   It is envisioned that other styles and configurations of the present invention can be easily incorporated into the teachings of the present invention, and particular configurations shall be shown and described for purposes of clarity and disclosure and not by way of limitation of scope. 
   The preferred embodiment of the present invention can be utilized by the common user in a simple and effortless manner with little or no training. After initial purchase or acquisition of the apparatus  10 , it would be installed as indicated in  FIG. 1 . When the device is first procured it is envisioned to be in the folded configuration (see  FIG. 5 ). 
   The method of installing and utilizing the preferred embodiment of the apparatus  10  may be achieved by performing the following steps: placing the apparatus  10  on the ground with the rear platform  30  top surface contacting the ground; partially deploying the front platform  20  forming a right-angle thereto the rear platform  30  using the second pivots  23 ; pushing and releasing the second locking mechanisms  49  toward the front platform  20  to allow the wheel/suspension assemblies  40  to be fully deployed and in a perpendicular position; pushing the wheel/suspension assemblies  40  into position; sliding the second locking mechanism  49  away from the front platform  20 , thereby securing the wheel/suspension assemblies  40  in a deployed position; deploying the front platform  20  to a coplanar position therewith the rear platform  30 ; securing the platforms  20 ,  30  to one another using the provided attachment/fasteners  100  along the common vertical edge surface; inserting the automobile drawbar assembly  70  into the drawbar receiver  61 ; engaging the female electrical receptacle  57  thereto the male electrical receptacle  58 ; engaging the drawbar mounting brackets  67  drawbar pins  122  therein the drawbar bracket pin latches  123 ; securing said drawbar  70  by grasping the drawbar latch handle  66  and pulling in an upward direction to engage the drawbar latch  63  therein the drawbar latch aperture  62 ; securing the drawbar latch position  63  by fully inserting the drawbar latch locking pin  65  within the corresponding slot; securing the forward portion of the automobile drawbar  70  by connecting the drawbar mounting bracket  67  to the drawbar bracket latches  123  front edge of the front platform  20  using the provided attachment/fasteners  100 ; applying a pulling force on the drawbar latch locking pin  65  and the automobile drawbar  70  to insure a safe connection; lifting the automobile drawbar  70  and tilting the apparatus  10  forward until the tires  42  engage the ground and the platforms  20 ,  30  are parallel thereto a ground surface; attaching the apparatus  10  to a towing vehicle  110  using a standard 1⅞ inch ball hitch by pulling up on the coupler locking handle  11  to lift the apparatus  10  and direct the coupler/drawbar assembly  12  onto the ball hitch; pressing down on the coupler locking handle  11  until secured and the integral safety lock is inserted and secure; installing the license plate light assembly  52  by attaching the two (2) wing nuts  54 ; connecting license plate light assembly wiring  52  to the vehicle electrical cable  59 ; attaching the safety chains  56  located on either side of the automobile drawbar  70  near the coupler locking handle  11  to an undercarriage portion of the vehicle  110  in accordance with common federal, state, and local transportation regulations; tilting the apparatus  10 , as desired, by releasing the first locking mechanism  19  allowing the apparatus  10  to tilt backward rotating about the first pivot  18  enabling a user to easily load items onto the platform portions  20 ,  30 ; applying the protective cover assembly  80  to the apparatus  10  by; assembling the tubular frame  85 ; inserting the tubular frame  85  thereinto the enclosure  81 ; attaching the enclosure  81  thereto the front  20  and rear  30  platforms using the enclosure straps  82  and slots  121 ; disassembling the apparatus  10  by performing the instructions above in a reversed order; storing and/or transporting the apparatus  10  within most conventional automobile trunks  110 ; and, benefiting from the portability and compactness of the present invention  10 . 
   Installation and utilization of an alternate motorcycle embodiment  86  of the invention incorporating a motorcycle drawbar assembly  71  may be achieved by performing the following additional steps: inserting the motorcycle drawbar assembly  71  into the drawbar receiver  61  in lieu of the automobile drawbar assembly  70  using the same steps as described above; connecting the apparatus  10  ball-hitch equipped motorcycle. 
   Installation and utilization of an alternate garden-cart embodiment  87  of the invention incorporating a garden-cart drawbar assembly  72  with the hard wagon sides  93  may be achieved by performing the following steps: inserting the garden-cart drawbar assembly  72  into the drawbar receiver  61  in lieu of the automobile drawbar assembly  70  using the same steps as described above; installing the hard wagon sides  93  by inserting the wagon stake poles  95  into the stake pole apertures  21 ; assembling the wagon slats  94  to the wagon stake poles  95  using the provided attachment/fasteners  100 , if not previously attached; manipulating the apparatus  10  as desired using the garden-cart dolly  73  and the wagon pull handle  96 ; dumping a load using the dump-type tailgate  97  as desired. 
   Installation and utilization of an alternate bicycle carrier embodiment  88  of the invention incorporating a bicycle carrier  75  may be achieved by performing the following steps: assembling the vertical plate  76  along the horizontal plate  77  so as to conform to a particular bicycle length  120 ; attaching the bicycle carrier  75  thereto the platform surfaces  20 ,  30  using the provided attachment/fasteners  100 ; loading a bicycle  120  onto said bicycle carrier  75 ; placing the bicycle crank portion  120  into the slotted female feature along a top portion of the vertical plate  76 ; securing the bicycle carrier  75  thereto a rear edge of the rear platform  30  using the bicycle attachment mechanism  78 ; securing the bicycle  120  thereto the apparatus  10  using additional securing devices as required; attaching additional bicycle carriers  75  to the apparatus  10  as desired in like manner. 
   Installation and utilization of an alternate snow/ski embodiment  89  of the invention incorporating a snow ski  90  configuration may be achieved by performing the following additional steps: detaching the wheel assemblies  43  from the apparatus  10  by removing the wheels  43  and corresponding axle hardware; attaching the ski brackets  91  thereto the suspension arms  41 ; reinstalling the axle hardware and securing with provided attachment/fasteners  100 ; attaching the ski straps  129  therebetween the ski hoops  92  and the suspension arms  41 ; attaching the coupler/drawbar assembly  12  to a ball hitch equipped snowmobile using the 1⅞ inch ball-coupler  17 , the coupler locking handle  11 , and the safety chains  56 ; transporting the apparatus  10  using said snowmobile in an expected manner. 
   The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed, and obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Technology Classification (CPC): 1