Jack Patents (Class 177/146)
  • Patent number: 11434091
    Abstract: A trailer stabilizing device for stabilizing a parked freight trailer, the trailer stabilizing device comprising a frame separate from the support frame of the parked freight trailer, the stabilizing device frame having mounted thereto wheels and a hitch, the stabilizing device including a repositionable jack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2022
    Assignee: Stabilock, LLC
    Inventors: R. Peter Kimener, Thomas Terrence Kimener, Daniel Wahlstrom
  • Patent number: 11090559
    Abstract: In certain embodiments, a gaming pedal assembly comprises a base platform and a pedal arm rotatably coupled to the base platform at a first mounting location that provides a first axis of rotation for the pedal arm relative to the base platform. The gaming pedal assembly further includes a piston assembly having a resistance profile, the piston assembly coupled to the pedal arm at a coupling location that provides a second axis of rotation for the piston assembly relative to the pedal arm. The piston assembly is rotatably coupled to the base platform at a second mounting location that provides a third axis of rotation for the piston assembly relative to the base platform. The piston assembly compresses according to the resistance profile of the piston assembly in response to a user interface region of the pedal arm receiving a pressing force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2021
    Assignee: Logitech Europe S.A.
    Inventors: Simon Baumgartner, Jan Stoeckli, Cian Connolly, Davin O'Mahony, Cheng Hao Chiu, Ping Hao Chang
  • Patent number: 10829321
    Abstract: A trailer stabilizing device for stabilizing a parked freight trailer, the trailer stabilizing device comprising a frame separate from the support frame of the parked freight trailer, the stabilizing device frame having mounted thereto wheels and a hitch, the stabilizing device including a repositionable jack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: Stabilock LLC
    Inventors: R. Peter Kimener, Thomas Terrence Kimener, Daniel Wahlstrom
  • Patent number: 10399800
    Abstract: A trailer stabilizing device for stabilizing a parked freight trailer, the trailer stabilizing device comprising a frame separate from the support frame of the parked freight trailer, the stabilizing device frame having mounted thereto wheels and a hitch, the stabilizing device including a repositionable jack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2019
    Assignee: Stabilock, LLC
    Inventors: R. Peter Kimener, Thomas Terrence Kimener, Daniel Wahlstrom
  • Patent number: 10345197
    Abstract: A loading test test-and-control system and method of vehicle lifter lifting unit, the system is used to test a lifting unit, comprising a base, the base is provided thereon with a support bracket capable of installing the lifting unit to be tested; the support bracket is provided with a loading unit for applying a loading force to the lifting unit to be tested; the loading unit is electrically connected with a control unit which can control the pressure applied by the loading unit according to a set value. The method uses the system. Before the assembly of the vehicle lifter is completed, the system may carry out a loading test for the lifting unit and verify the function and static strength of the lifting unit, facilitating the test and saving cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Assignee: CRRC QINGDAO SIFANG ROLLING STOCK RESEARCH INSTITUTE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hui Ding, Jun Niu, Xiaolei Zhao, Cancan Zhang, Xiaoming Cao, Minghai Wang, Zengchao Zhang, Jinbiao Zhang, Xu Wang
  • Patent number: 10184825
    Abstract: A dust protector for a weighing bar assembly (10), particularly usable under weighing platforms that comprises a structural body (1) defining two longitudinal ends, which comprise the dust protector (20), which, when projected in a top view, defines a C-shaped profile, comprising three plane rectangular plates (22, 23, 24) and three outer flaps (25, 26, 27), each of the flaps (25, 26, 27) extending perpendicularly from each of the plates (22, 23, 24), respectively, the flaps (25, 26, 27) being supported on the same support plane of the profile (21), enabling reduction in the accumulation of residues/debris on support portions of the weighing bar assembly (10), being easy to manufacture, mount and maintain, facilitating the cleaning of the assembly (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2019
    Assignee: Robert Bosch Limitada
    Inventors: Alvaro Augusto Vasconcelos, Luis Fernando L. Ribeiro, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10107674
    Abstract: A mobile scale including a lower frame having at least one load cell and an upper deck having at least one load cell engagement surface for engaging the at least one load cell. The upper deck is movable from a first position where the at least one load cell engagement surface is engaged with the at least one load cell to a second position where the at least one load cell engagement surface is disengaged from the at least one load cell. Also, a method of weighing and moving a load. The load is placed on the mobile scale described above. The weight of the load is determined using the load cells when the upper deck is in the first position. The mobile scale is then lifted to transition the upper deck from the first position to the second position and moved to a new location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2018
    Assignee: TMS International Corporation
    Inventors: Chuck Mamich, Douglas Blake Norman, Fernando Rodriguez Anton
  • Patent number: 9815668
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a crane, in particular to a crawler crane or mobile crane having at least one monitoring and simulation means by means of which a state of the crane can be monitored and/or simulated, wherein the monitoring and simulation means has at least one input means and at least one output means and wherein the actual state and/or state development of the crane and/or of the boom of the crane can be displayed by means of the monitoring and simulation means and/or a possible state and/or possible state development of the crane can be simulated and/or displayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2017
    Assignee: LIEBHERR-WERK EHINGEN GMBH
    Inventors: Erwin Morath, Edwin Cettinich
  • Patent number: 9802771
    Abstract: A trailer stabilizing device for stabilizing a parked freight trailer, the trailer stabilizing device comprising a frame separate from the support frame of the parked freight trailer, the stabilizing device frame having mounted thereto wheels and a hitch, the stabilizing device including a repositionable jack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Inventors: R. Peter Kimener, Thomas Terrence Kimener, Daniel Wahlstrom
  • Patent number: 9221630
    Abstract: A trailer stabilizing device for stabilizing a parked freight trailer, the trailer stabilizing device comprising a frame separate from the support frame of the parked freight trailer, the stabilizing device frame having mounted thereto wheels and a hitch, the stabilizing device including a repositionable jack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2015
    Assignee: Stabilock LLC
    Inventors: R. Peter Kimener, Thomas Terrence Kimener, Daniel Wahlstrom
  • Patent number: 9188476
    Abstract: The water treatment system, particularly reverse-osmosis system, comprising a salt water container, is characterized in that the salt water container is arranged on a weighing device which measures the weight of the salt water container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Inventor: Manfred Volker
  • Patent number: 8975541
    Abstract: A weight-measuring device (1) for vehicle lifting platforms, which can be arranged between a height-adjustable supporting element (15) and a vehicle which is to be lifted, wherein an upper part (2) and a lower part (3) form a cavity (12) which is filled with a hydraulic fluid (13) and/or with a gas and generates in the cavity (12), by means of a load (19, 20) lying on top, a hydraulic or gas pressure which is measured and/or indicated with a pressure gauge and/or indicator device (4) which is at least partially integrated in the upper part (2) and/or in the lower part (3), with the upper part (2) being composed of rubber and/or of plastic and/or of some other elastic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: Roland Hornstein GmbH & Co., KG
    Inventor: Roland Hornstein
  • Patent number: 8839675
    Abstract: An apparatus for lifting an aircraft may include a plurality of lifting mechanisms mounted on a supporting surface. Each lifting mechanism may be configured to impart an upward force on a component of the aircraft for lifting the aircraft off the supporting surface. The apparatus may include a beam structure configured to be mounted to the lifting mechanisms. The apparatus may also include a lifting beam suspended from the beam structure. A measurement device may be mounted to the lifting beam and may be configured to engage a jack point associated with the component to determine a weight of the aircraft when the aircraft is lifted off the supporting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Mark E. Miller, George V. Davis
  • Patent number: 8816225
    Abstract: A method for detecting weight on a platform lift having a platform, a hydraulic cylinder, and a hydraulic circuit including the steps of measuring a static pressure of the hydraulic circuit, and comparing the measured static pressure to a baseline pressure of the hydraulic circuit. The baseline pressure is a static pressure of the hydraulic circuit without external weight positioned on the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Ricon Corp.
    Inventors: Dante V. Deleo, Steven Fisher
  • Patent number: 8581122
    Abstract: A bin monitoring system functions both as a device for lifting the bin and as a weighing system for monitoring or measuring the level of feed in a feed bin. Various embodiments having a suspended load cell and methods of retrofitting the bin monitoring system to existing bins are provided. Further, the accuracy provided by various embodiments enables one to accurately predict when the feed bin will be empty. Thus, the feed mill can be aware of anticipated needs days in advance, allowing the feed mill to better optimize its scheduling and deliveries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Herdstar, LLC
    Inventor: Mark H. Jaeger
  • Patent number: 8431839
    Abstract: The invention relates to a bearing element for lifting platforms, which is a displaceable part of a bearing arm of a load receiving element of a lifting platform, with a vehicle bearing element resting on that end of said bearing element that protrudes from the carrier, wherein at least one annular recess, in particular an annular groove, is arranged on the upper side of said bearing element, in which at least one vertically displaceable transfer element is disposed that seals a pressure chamber that is filled with hydraulic fluid and is disposed below said transfer element, with the transfer element generating in the pressure chamber a pressure that is characteristic for the weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Roland Hörnstein GmbH & Co., KG
    Inventor: Roland Hörnstein
  • Patent number: 8431840
    Abstract: Support element for lifting platforms, which can be arranged between a carrying element of the lifting platform and a vehicle which is to be raised, wherein the support element can be removed from the carrying element, wherein the support element rests on at least one vertically displaceable transfer element that seals a pressure chamber that is filled with hydraulic fluid and is disposed above said transfer element, with the transfer element generating in the pressure chamber a pressure that is characteristic for the weight resting on the support element, and in that the pressure chamber has an annular recess, in particular a groove, which is sealed by the equally annular transfer element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Roland Hörnstein GmbH & Co., KG
    Inventor: Roland Hörnstein
  • Patent number: 8156048
    Abstract: A payload monitoring system for an excavation machine is disclosed. The payload monitoring system may have a tool, a first sensor configured to generate a first signal indicative of a velocity of the tool, and a second sensor configured to generate a second signal indicative of a lift force of the tool. The payload monitoring system may also have a controller in communication with the first sensor and the second sensor. The controller may be configured to record the velocity and the lift force of the tool during a work cycle based on the first and second signals, and partition the work cycle into a plurality of segments including a loaded moving segment. The controller may also be configured to determine a period of time within the loaded moving segment during which the velocity of the tool is substantially constant, and calculate a payload of the tool based on the lift force recorded during the period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Mintah, Robert J. Price, Kevin D. King, Vijayakumar Janardhan, Shoji Tozawa
  • Patent number: 7960659
    Abstract: A trailer tongue weight measurement system is provided to ensure proper loading and safe handling of a trailer being towed by a vehicle. The weight measurement system includes a two part or split housing having a operating shaft, a spring and a scale. The weight measurement system may be incorporated into the trailer tongue, the tongue jack, or the hitch. Deflection of the spring in response to a load on the trailer is converted to a weight measurement that may be read on a calibrated scale.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Inventor: Michael M. Cleary
  • Patent number: 7838782
    Abstract: A combination apparatus for weighing an aircraft has a plurality of weight scales, each scale being adapted to be supported by a support surface in a position for receiving landing gear of an aircraft thereon. At least one riser supports at least one scale above the support surface, and the height of each riser is selected to position an aircraft on the scales in a level attitude while a weight of the aircraft is being supported by the landing gear on the scales. At least one scale may be recessed in the support surface, and the height of each riser may be adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.
    Inventors: Edward C Hamilton, Michael A. Greene
  • Publication number: 20100276212
    Abstract: Support element for lifting platforms, which can be arranged between a carrying element of the lifting platform and a vehicle which is to be raised, wherein the support element can be removed from the carrying element, wherein the support element rests on at least one vertically displaceable transfer element that seals a pressure chamber that is filled with hydraulic fluid and is disposed above said transfer element, with the transfer element generating in the pressure chamber a pressure that is characteristic for the weight resting on the support element, and in that the pressure chamber has an annular recess, in particular a groove, which is sealed by the equally annular transfer element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2008
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Inventor: Roland Hörnstein
  • Patent number: 7795547
    Abstract: A method of weight determination of a load carried by a lifter (1) of a lifting device (2) is based on at least one upward and one downward displacement of the lifter (1) by means of a hydraulic actuator (7). A pressure signal is provided by means of a pressure transducer (24), and a position signal is provided by means of a meter (23). The weight of the load (27) is determined on the basis of the pressure signal (24) and the position signal (23). The position signal is registered as a function of time, an acceleration dependent parameter is determined on the basis of the variation of the position signal, and the weight determination is performed in dependence of said acceleration dependent parameter. Furthermore, a weighing device is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Inventor: Torben Winther Hansen
  • Patent number: 7750255
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and a method for weighing a section of a structure (1). The system comprises at least one hydraulic weight sensor device (3), adapted to be placed in at least one slot (2) under the section, a pressure sensor (7) for measuring the pressure in the at least one weight sensor device (3), and a hydraulic system comprising at least one pump unit (5) and at least one valve unit (6) for pumping hydraulic fluid to and from the at least one hydraulic weight sensor device (3) through a hydraulic line (4). The system further comprises a distance sensor (10) for measuring the height of the slot (2), a control circuit device (20) for calculating the weight of the section based on measured data received from the pressure sensor (7), and for balancing the section on the basis of the measured data received from the pressure sensor (7) and the distance sensor (10) by controlling the pump unit (5) and the valve unit (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Inventor: Hans Knutsen
  • Patent number: 7589288
    Abstract: A wheel lift weight measurement structure that directly lifts up wheel and a bed balance therefore includes a seat, at least one pedal, a locating mechanism, at least one weight sensor, and a support; one the pedal revolves and is pressed down at where it is pivoted to the frame, the weight sensor pivoted to the pedal holes against and lifts up the body of the support and lifts up the wheels of the sickbed at the same time to perform measurement of weight; the weight measurement is done depending on the quantity of the wheel of the sickbed by having disposed the wheel lift weight measurement structure to each wheel or each wheel on each corner and having the results measured by each wheel lift weight measurement structure transmitted to a measurement device to solve the results before transmitting the results to each display to form a bed balance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Inventors: Yi-Chieh Wu, Sung-Liang Hsieh
  • Patent number: 7544902
    Abstract: A lift measurement system is provided for determining a position of a load during a lift operation. The system includes a display that includes a scale and encloses a movable indicator that moves relative to the scale. A linkage is in communication with the load and the scale, such that movement of the load is translated to movement of the indicator relative to the scale to provide an indication of the position of the load. A plurality of displays and linkages may be installed at various load support zones such that the relative position of the corresponding indicators provides feedback related to the orientation of the load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Actuant Corporation
    Inventor: Frantz D. Stanford
  • Patent number: 7528329
    Abstract: A weighing system contains 1 or more weighing elements (2). The weight of the receptor/superstructure (4) with or without a load is borne by the weighing element(s) (2). At least 1 weighing elements (2) is connected with 2 fasteners (3), with one positioned in the connection between one fastening end (6) of the weighing (element2) and the framework/chassis (5) and with the other positioned in the connection between the other fastening end (7) of the weighing element (2) and the receptor/superstructure (4). At least 1 weighing element (2) is partly or entirely positioned with at least 1 of its fastening ends (6)(7) in the space between its 2 fasteners (3), with the characteristic that the weighing system has a device (1) which can lift the receptor/superstructure (4) from the framework/chassis (5) and which can deposit the receptor/superstructure (4) back on the framework/chassis (5) after weighing. The weighing system can also be manufactured and applied as on-board weighing on vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Inventor: Ludovicus C. M. Nuyts
  • Patent number: 7232962
    Abstract: A mobile hospital patient bed scale is contemplated which lifts the entire bed with patient in situ on a load platform with an aperture to accommodate the undercarriage of many hospital beds such as a motor. The scale minimizes both vertical and horizontal displacement. The platform has load cells which deliver data to a memory and display device. The invention is portable and partly foldable to aid in storage. It provides for recharging if desired, and for use of an auxiliary power source if desired. The driving force for lifting may be a hydraulic ram or an electrically powered screw drive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Inventor: Richard Rynd
  • Patent number: 7045721
    Abstract: Apparatus, system and methods useful for lifting a drum to enable the drum and its contents to be accurately weighed includes a drum weighing platform engageable with the drum, at least two guide rods. The guide rods are movable upwardly in unison to move the drum weighing platform vertically upwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: Specialty Equipment Coveyor Company
    Inventors: Donald H Green, Michael J Seiver, Thomas P Reichelt
  • Patent number: 6951988
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device comprising an electronic sensor (6) designed to deliver a compression signal and a shearing signal, and a comparator for comparing the shearing signal to a threshold value, so as to validate, or invalidate, the compression signal. The invention is useful for weighing aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2005
    Assignee: Airbus France
    Inventors: Gérard Falcou, Thierry Goder, François Boyer
  • Patent number: 6891112
    Abstract: A lift system for effecting a vertical parallel movement of a platform relative to a base, in particular for moving a sample changer platform of a sample changer in a weighing system, has at least three substantially identical and mutually interchangeable mechanical lift units supporting the platform. The lift units occupy an at least triangular flexible layout on the base. The lift system is equipped with a drive system that includes a transmission device and a drive element, wherein the transmission device connects the lift units among each other and to the drive element. The arrangement produces a simultaneous vertical movement of the lift units with the platform always staying aligned in a plane that is substantially orthogonal to the gravity force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo GmbH
    Inventor: René Weber
  • Patent number: 6852933
    Abstract: A mobile scale assembly for weighing vehicles having a support frame attachable to the carriage of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Inventor: Fred Messerle
  • Patent number: 6835900
    Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus which automates the weight measurement of a payload in conjunction with a roller bed based loading/unloading station. The apparatus is designed as a retrofit for an existing loading station and consists a stationary frame mounted underneath the roller bed loading station. The apparatus includes lifters which are raised by air cylinders or the equivalent upon activation to physically remove the payload temporarily from the roller bar station while the weight is measured through load cells arranged with the lifters. The engagement and release of the lifters as well as the reading of information from the load cells is coordinated and controlled by a microprocessor. Appropriate communication means are provided for, to enable the system to be activated, and to allow the weight readings taken to be incorporated into other payload management functions such as billing, receiving, inventory control, or other functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Inventor: Clyde Jones
  • Publication number: 20040154842
    Abstract: A mobile hospital patient bed scale is contemplated which lifts the entire bed with patient in situ on a load platform with an aperture to accommodate the undercarriage of many hospital beds such as a motor. The scale minimizes both vertical and horizontal displacement. The platform has load cells which deliver data to a memory and display device. The invention is portable and partly foldable to aid in storage. It provides for recharging if desired, and for use of an auxiliary power source if desired. The driving force for lifting may be a hydraulic ram or an electrically powered screw drive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2004
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Inventor: Richard Rynd
  • Patent number: 6756547
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method for lifting and lowering equipment. In a preferred embodiment, the equipment is lifted by attaching a plurality of equipment adapters to the equipment, attaching a jack assembly to each of the plurality of equipment adapters, lifting the equipment by simultaneously raising the jack assemblies, moving the transport under the equipment and lowering the equipment onto the transport. The inventive method may be modified to include an additional process of weighing the equipment before lowering the equipment by measuring the amount of force required to hold the equipment in an elevated position. To practice the inventive method, the present invention also provides an apparatus that includes a plurality of equipment adapters and a plurality of jack assemblies, wherein each of the plurality of jack adapter assemblies is configured for removable connection to a corresponding equipment adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Inventor: Howard Lefler
  • Patent number: 6717072
    Abstract: The invention relates to a bed scale with a plurality of measuring feet which each support one leg of the bed and are provided with a force transducer which delivers a signal representing a weight force acting on the measuring foot and furthermore with an evaluation device which is connected to the transmission devices in the measuring feet for receiving the signal in order to deliver a result dependent on the weight force bearing thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: Seca GmbH
    Inventors: Matthias Winterberg, Claus-Dieter Sievers
  • Patent number: 6703569
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a roll-off truck/trailer and a method for weighing the box that is positioned horizontally on the truck/trailer. More specifically, the present invention is directed to a weighing system mounted on a roll-off truck/trailer that has four lifts, two on each side of the truck/trailer, and load cells mounted on the lifts. The method of the present invention involves positioning a box in a horizontal position on the roll-off truck/trailer and lifting the box with load cells that are fixed on the top of lifts mounted on each side to the chasis of the truck/trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: S'Morf, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald Brien Moore, Lloyd Glynn Paige
  • Publication number: 20040031627
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device comprising an electronic sensor (6) designed to deliver a compression signal and a shearing signal, and a comparator for comparing the shearing signal to a threshold value, so as to validate, or invalidate, the compression signal. The invention is useful for weighing aircraft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2003
    Publication date: February 19, 2004
    Inventors: Gerard Falcou, Thierry Goder, Francois Boyer
  • Publication number: 20040031628
    Abstract: A method is provided to control at least one movement of an industrial truck. The method includes determining the lifting height of load holding means (5), determining the weight of a lifted load, calculatiing of the position of the overall center of gravity (S) of the industrial truck, calculating a variable which is a function of the stability of the industrial truck in at least one direction, and determining the allowable scope of the movement of the industrial truck. The overall center of gravity (S) and/or the stability of the industrial truck can be calculated taking into consideration a potential elastic deformation of a lifting platform (6) of the industrial truck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Publication date: February 19, 2004
    Inventors: Hans-Jorg Schiebel, Michael Meinhardt, Ralf Mebert
  • Publication number: 20040020694
    Abstract: An apparatus which provides a portable means for a caregiver with limited strength to easily weigh patients in bed who are, unable or unwilling to get out of bed, or very heavy and too large for conventional scales. It works on low beds with very little underside clearance, beds without wheels, and in rooms with limited space. The apparatus includes a weight readout indicator and several lightweight weight sensing lifting assemblies each of which having a vertically adjustable cam type bed frame lifter and a load cell. When the bed frame lifter is placed under a bed frame, adjusted up to the underside of the frame, and rotated to its thickest point, a portion of the bed is lifted. This is repeated until the entire bed is lifted. The weight of the bed on the lifters induces the load cells sending a signal to the weight readout indicator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2002
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventors: Steven Ronald Hall, Janet Claire Hall
  • Patent number: 6680442
    Abstract: A mobile hospital patient bed scale is contemplated which lifts the entire bed with patient in situ on a load platform with a non-slip surface. The scale minimizes both vertical and horizontal displacement. The platform has load cells which deliver data to a memory and display device. The invention is portable and partly foldable to aid in storage. It provides for recharging if desired, and for use of an auxiliary power source if desired. The driving force for lifting may be a hydraulic ram or an electrically powered screw drive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: EZE Weigh, LLC
    Inventors: Richard Rynd, Adam T. Ashpes
  • Publication number: 20030234122
    Abstract: A tine mounted weighing scale apparatus includes a pair of weighing scale units, each scale unit having a base mountable on one tine of a lifting device. The base has a predetermined number of load cell mounts each providing a deflection gap between a load cell and the base. A platform for contact with a load is disposed above and in operational contact with the base. A load cell is attached to each of the load cell mounts of the base and is positioned between the base and the platform. Each load cell has an engagement member in operational contact with the platform. An electrical control/display and a power supply is connected to the pair of weighing scale units for displaying the total weight supported by the scale apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2002
    Publication date: December 25, 2003
    Inventors: William P. Kroll, Randie Evenson
  • Patent number: 6627826
    Abstract: An operative unit (1) advances containers (2) along a conveying line (3) and transfers the containers from the conveying line to one weighing station (4) and vice-versa. An endless conveyor (6) of the operative unit passes through the weighing station (4) and a sliding track (S), on which the containers (2) move, is disposed parallel to the conveyor (6). Moving modules (70) are removably fastened to the conveyor and move the containers (2) on the sliding track (S) A platform (8) forms a portion of the sliding track (S) and is situated in correspondence to the weighing station (4). The containers (2) supported by the platform (8) are temporarily disengaged from the moving means (70) and placed in the weighing station (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: I.M.A. Industria Macchine Automatiche S.p.A.
    Inventors: Luigi Cavina, Paolo Tacchini, Gianfranco Salmi
  • Patent number: 6627825
    Abstract: A hydraulic lifting and weighing system particularly for refuse collection vehicles and the like and includes means for dynamically weighing garbage. The system includes a hydraulic actuator operable to move a lifting arm and takes two measurements of the pressure of the hydraulic fluid in the system as the arm raises a waste bin whose weight is to be measured. The weight of the bin is calculated by multiplying the pressure by a factor determined by calibration with known weights. Weights are calculated based on the measurements of pressure and the result averaged. The system compensates for variations in hydraulic flow characteristics. The system includes means for compensating for variations in the inclination of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: TEK Solutions Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Richard Creswick
  • Patent number: 6608262
    Abstract: An aircraft load cell shoring for placing a wing with an aircraft engine attached to the wing in an unloaded condition and for use with a load cell mounted on an aircraft jack. The aircraft load cell shoring includes a load cell adapter and a shoring contour assembly. The load cell adapter is able to be disposed above the load cell. The shoring contour assembly is an assembly for supporting an aircraft engine, and has a shoring contour assembly bottom portion, and a fixed receptacle located at the shoring contour assembly bottom portion. The load cell adapter communicates with the fixed receptacle. The fixed receptacle is located such that the aircraft jack is aligned with the center of gravity of the engine and enclosed part of the wing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Robert J. Eiswerth, M. Bruce Keen, Larry D. Peterson, Alan M. Saferstein, Rick P. Strickland
  • Publication number: 20030141117
    Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus which automates the weight measurement of a payload in conjunction with a roller bed based loading/unloading station. The apparatus is designed as a retrofit for an existing loading station and consists a stationary frame mounted underneath the roller bed loading station. The apparatus includes lifters which are raised by air cylinders or the equivalent upon activation to physically remove the payload temporarily from the roller bar station while the weight is measured through load cells arranged with the lifters. The engagement and release of the lifters as well as the reading of information from the load cells is coordinated and controlled by a microprocessor. Appropriate communication means are provided for, to enable the system to be activated, and to allow the weight readings taken to be incorporated into other payload management functions such as billing, receiving, inventory control, or other functions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2003
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Inventor: Clyde Jones
  • Patent number: 6380496
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) for weighing wheeled or wheel- or caster-supported loads, including non-ambulatory patients confined to wheeled beds, which combines lift, support, and weight-measuring functions. The apparatus (10) is lightweight, portable, and employs a foot-activated lever-based design, including a foot bar (51) and pivoting wheel receptacle (50), for raising both the load and the load's wheeled support, if any. The apparatus (10) can be positioned for use without moving the load, and, because the apparatus utilizes leg and lower body strength, operators need not possess substantial arm or upper body strength. Thus, injuries which result from improper lifting techniques are avoided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Cardinal Scale Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Thomas Allen Lohkamp
  • Patent number: 6307163
    Abstract: A chemical mixer tank calibrator and a calibrating method for the same. The chemical mixer tank calibrator calibrates the weight of the mixer tank through a step motor. Once the chemical in the mixer tank is used up, the mixer tank can be automatically filled with chemical. Thus, the chemical in the mixer tank can adequately supply the buffer tank and the machine at any given time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: United Microelectronics Corp.
    Inventors: Chien-Hsin Lai, Fu-Yang Yu
  • Patent number: 6119475
    Abstract: A lift assembly which is coupled to a refrigerant service cart to raise and lock the supply tank of refrigerant off of a weight sensor, locking the tank in a raised position for transportation of the portable servicing cart. In a preferred embodiment, a fixed arm extends from the portable cart and is positioned at a location above the refrigerant tank. A movable connecting link extends from the arm and is coupled to the tank and is controlled by an over-center toggle with a control handle for raising and lowering the tank coupled to the link between a use position resting on the weight sensor and a transporting position engaging the fixed arm and locked thereto by the over-center toggle control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: SPX Corporation
    Inventors: Gary P. Murray, William C. Brown, Walter D. Murray
  • Patent number: 5990423
    Abstract: A mobile bed scale is contemplated which lifts the entire bed with patient in situ on a load platform with a non-slip surface. The scale minimizes both vertical and horizontal displacement. The platform has load cells which deliver data to a memory and display device. The invention is portable and partly foldable to aid in storage. It provides for recharging if desired, and for use of an auxiliary power source if desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: EZE Weigh, LLC
    Inventors: Adam T. Ashpes, Richard Rynd
  • Patent number: 5973274
    Abstract: A dynamometer, which includes a frictional drive assembly for engaging a pair of vehicle tires, and a lift assembly including two air bags for respectively lifting the vehicle tires and the associated portion of the vehicle to a raised position out of engagement with the drive assembly, has a controller operating under stored program control and pressure sensors connected to the controller and in fluid communication with the air bags. The pressures in the air bags when the vehicle is lifted are used to calculate the weight lifted in accordance with a straight-line functional relationship between air bag pressure and vehicle weight lifted for a particular type of air bag. A routine for calibrating the weighing system is also included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: Snap-on Tools Company
    Inventor: Richard R. Zarchy