Abstract: A lifting apparatus has a support structure, a frame pivotally connected to the support structure, an actuator connected to the frame so as to move the frame between a retracted position and an extended position, a lifting bar pivotally connected to the frame, and a linkage having one end pivotally connected to the support structure and an opposite end connected to the lifting bar. The lifting bar has a first strut with one end pivotally connected to the frame, a second strut with the one end pivotally affixed to the frame, and a cross member affixed adjacent to opposite ends of the first and second struts and extending thereacross. The linkage includes a first link and a second link.

Abstract: A lifting apparatus has a support structure, a frame pivotally connected to the support structure, an actuating means connected to the frame so as to move the frame between a retracted position and an extended position, a lifting bar pivotally connected to the frame, and a linkage having one end pivotally connected to the support structure and an opposite end connected to the lifting bar. The lifting bar has a first strut with one end pivotally to the frame, a second strut with the one end pivotally affixed to the frame, and a cross member affixed adjacent to opposite ends of the first and second struts and extending thereacross. The linkage includes a first link and a second link each having fixed lengths.

Abstract: A case positioner system for orienting a case from an upended position to a corrected position has a frame, a conveyor translatably arranged relative to said frame, a bottom projection positioned below said conveyor, an abutment member interconnected to said frame and positioned above said conveyor, and a translator connected to the bottom projection. The bottom projection is movable between an upward position and a downward position. The abutment member is movable between an upper position and a lower position. The translator moves the bottom projection upstream on said conveyor when said abutment member is in said lower position.

Abstract: An apparatus for detecting a cracked or broken case has a frame, a conveyor means mounted on the frame, and a ram affixed to the frame for applying a force onto a surface of a wall of the case. A sensor is cooperative with the ram for detecting when the surface of the wall of the case has deflected beyond a desired amount. An ejector is affixed to the frame for removing the case from the conveyor when the sensor has detected that the wall of the case has deflected beyond the desired amount.

Abstract: A lifting apparatus for use in the bed of a pickup truck having a lifting bar of a generally U-shaped configuration with one side pivotally connected to a side wall of the bed of the pickup truck and an opposite side pivotally connected to another side wall of the bed of the pickup truck. A cylinder has a piston rod extending outwardly therefrom. This piston rod has an end pivotally connected to a linkage connected to the lifting bar. The cylinder is actuatable so as to move the piston rod between a retracted position and an extended position such that the lifting bar is pivotable relative to the movement of the piston rod. The linkage has a scissor-like configuration which allows the lifting bar to be stowed completely within the interior of the bed of the pickup truck.