B62D33/0222

VEHICLE ACCESSORY PORT AND PLUG
20250353440 · 2025-11-20 ·

A vehicle may include an integrated connector system. The vehicle includes a body having an outer surface and a plurality of attachment ports arranged on the outer surface. The attachments ports include a recess that extends below the surrounding outer surface. Each attachment port is configured to receive and engage with an attachment plug of an accessory. In some embodiments, there are different types of attachment ports, configured to engage with respective types of attachment plugs. Various accessories may be engaged with the attachment ports, allowing a range of items and equipment to be secured to the vehicle.

Tailgate protector structure with modular accessory attachments

The application generally relates to an apparatus comprising a tailgate protector having a base disposed atop a first portion of a tailgate, a support arm extending from a first edge of the base, and one or more mounting elements disposed within the base, wherein the one or more mounting elements are configured to removably couple an attachment via one or more attachment mounting elements includes in the attachment.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR AUTOMATED OPERATION AND HANDLING OF AUTONOMOUS TRUCKS AND TRAILERS HAULED THEREBY

A system and method for operation of an autonomous vehicle (AV) yard truck is provided. A processor facilitates autonomous movement of the AV yard truck, and connection to and disconnection from trailers. A plurality of sensors are interconnected with the processor that sense terrain/objects and assist in automatically connecting/disconnecting trailers. A server, interconnected, wirelessly with the processor, that tracks movement of the truck around and determines locations for trailer connection and disconnection. A door station unlatches/opens rear doors of the trailer when adjacent thereto, securing them in an opened position via clamps, etc. The system computes a height of the trailer, and/or if landing gear of the trailer is on the ground and interoperates with the fifth wheel to change height, and whether docking is safe, allowing a user to take manual control, and optimum charge time(s). Reversing sensors/safety, automated chocking, and intermodal container organization are also provided.

MODULAR TRAILER AND EFFICIENCY-MAXIMIZING TRAILER MANUFACTURING PROCESS
20260097820 · 2026-04-09 · ·

An vehicular tow-behind trailer design and manufacturing process primarily utilizing 4 by 8 sheets of 11 gauge cold rolled steel as the primary input material. The process employs a nitrogen laser cutter and CNC press brake to create precisely engineered components, resulting in a modular, lightweight trailer that is easier to manufacture and assemble. The design features two distinct models sharing common components, with variations in size and configuration to meet diverse user needs. Key innovations include a removable roof, pre-cut attachment points for accessories, and a modular frame design with a removable tongue for efficient shipping.

System and method for automated opening of trailer doors

This invention provides a station for opening trailer swing doors that uses a sled with a manipulator arm and associated end effector/tool to perform the unlocking of the trailer lock rod, swinging open of the door, holding the door in the opened position and applying an resilient/flexible/springy retention clip thereto. The sled moves into and out of a confronting position relative to the trailer rear/doors to allow that trailer to drive into or out of the station at the beginning or end of the task. Closing of doors can also be performed at the station in the reverse order of steps. The door retention clip can be adapted with features that allow it to perform the various opening and closing tasks herein. The station can include tracks for guiding the sled between a non-interfering and interfering position with respect to the path of travel of the truck/trailer.