Ladder And Platform Patents (Class 182/115)
  • Patent number: 11905721
    Abstract: An illustrative example embodiment of an assembly includes a first platform and at least one first brace associated with the first platform. The first brace is configured to engage a surface in or near a hoistway for supporting the first platform in a vertical location near the surface. A portion of the first brace is moveable relative to the first platform between an extended position for engaging the surface and a retracted position for allowing the first platform to move relative to the surface. A second platform is vertically spaced from the first platform. An adjustment mechanism associated with the first platform and the second platform facilitates adjusting a vertical spacing between the first platform and the second platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2024
    Assignee: OTIS ELEVATOR COMPANY
    Inventors: Kurt J. Frei, Douglas N. Datema
  • Patent number: 11873196
    Abstract: A mobile crane, such as a crawler crane, including an undercarriage having a chassis and a superstructure rotatably supported on the undercarriage and having a pivotable boom. At least two platforms are permanently arranged at the superstructure via which the superstructure is walkable. The platforms each comprise a base and a railing that are movable from a transport position in which they contact the superstructure into a work position in which the bases are walkable and are secured by the railings, and vice versa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2024
    Assignee: LIEBHERR-WERK NENZING GMBH
    Inventor: Wolfgang Nessler
  • Patent number: 11649664
    Abstract: A window for use on a structure has a first frame, a second frame and a fascia. The structure has a wall having an interior surface, an exterior surface, and an opening extending through the wall from the interior surface to the exterior surface. The opening has an upper edge, a lower edge, a first side, and a second side. The first frame contacts the interior surface of the wall and extends through the opening. The second frame is positioned below the opening and contacts the interior surface of the wall. The fascia is connected to the first frame and contacts the exterior surface of the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2023
    Assignee: Summit Outdoors, LLC
    Inventors: Joel E. Harter, Scott Bokach, Matthew Ruster, Tony R. Cronk
  • Patent number: 11517010
    Abstract: A vehicle-deployable enclosure assembly for deployment on a supporting surface using a lifting vehicle may include an enclosure base which is deployable between a collapsed configuration and an extended, enclosure-supporting configuration. An enclosure may be carried by the enclosure base. At least one attachment system may be provided on the enclosure. The at least one attachment system may be configured to facilitate attachment of the enclosure to the lifting vehicle. The enclosure base may be configured to deploy from the collapsed configuration to the extended, enclosure-supporting configuration in which the enclosure base supports the enclosure over the supporting surface responsive to lifting of the enclosure by operation of the lifting vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2022
    Inventor: Nick Jacob
  • Patent number: 11518651
    Abstract: A working device for carrying out fitting or maintenance work in an elevator shaft includes at least one working platform having a standing surface and a railing. The standing surface affords space for at least one person and the railing at least partially encloses the standing surface. The working device also includes at least one additional platform that is attachable to the railing of the working platform, and wherein the additional platform affords an additional standing surface for at least one person. The additional standing surface is arranged above the railing of the working platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2022
    Assignee: INVENTIO AG
    Inventors: Olaf Garbers, Philip Hofer, Frankie Schmid
  • Patent number: 11470975
    Abstract: A stepstool includes a stool body and a stability extension. The stool body includes a top step and a support structure that supports the top step. The stability extension projects distally from a base portion of the support structure and extends distally beyond a distal edge of the top step. The stability extension is configured to be received in a toe-space at the base of floor-standing furniture, and the stool body is configured so that the distal edge of the top step can be positioned immediately adjacent to the floor-standing furniture, to provide mechanical interference and thus prevent tipping of the stool body when a user on the top step leans out of balance. Also, the sides of the support structure can be angled outwardly to provide a wider base portion for improved stability of the stool body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2022
    Inventor: Mark Boyer
  • Patent number: 11104562
    Abstract: Disclosed is an automatic anti-roll system and method for mobile elevator under various working conditions, related to the field of vehicle equipment. The automatic anti-roll system includes a control system, a sensing module, a driving anti-roll module, an air-operation anti-roll module and a small movement anti-roll module. The automatic response to the different manual operations to the mobile elevator is combined with automatic decision based on state sensing of the mobile elevator to realize the automatic judgment and anti-roll control for different working conditions. As a result, the active-passive combined anti-roll control can be realized for various working conditions in various complicated environments such as driving, aerial operations, and small movement. The anti-roll system has a simple structure and can be operated easily. All the advantages make this system and method meet the practical requirements of anti-roll protection for all working conditions of the mobile elevator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Inventors: Jizhan Liu, Shijie Jiang, Nan Li
  • Patent number: 10750823
    Abstract: A method for inflating a chamber in an article composed at least partially of polymer layers, such as thermoplastic layers. The method can allow for forming an aperture in a polymer layer, inflating a chamber or volume in fluid communication with the aperture, and then welding or sealing the chamber so that the inflation fluid is substantially retained in the chamber and/or does not escape via the aperture. In various aspects, the formation of the aperture, inflation of the chamber, and sealing of the chamber or aperture can be performed by a single tool and/or based on a single registration of the thermoplastic article with a tool. In some aspects, formation of the aperture is enabled in part by using a punch with a cupped surface that allows the top layer of a thermoplastic article to be breached without forming a hole in at least one lower layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Assignee: NIKE, INC.
    Inventor: Dale E. Jacobs
  • Patent number: 10669717
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to climbing wall assemblies having a variety of improvements. For instance, the climbing wall assemblies may include connectors to attach the surface panels to the framework, in which the connectors may be mounted substantially anywhere along the front of the framework and at substantially any angle, providing for the securement of climbing panels in various geometries. The climbing wall assemblies may also include braces that may easily be adjusted to a desired length and configuration during construction of a climbing wall. The climbing wall assemblies may also include variable-angle, integral front posts, which provide for the easy and stable securement of climbing panels in various geometries. These improvements provide climbing wall assemblies that may be easily assembled to produce a desirable climbing wall structure having few framework components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2020
    Assignee: EVERLAST CLIMBING INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Timothy Shawn Sudeith, Sarah Mae Howard, Joel Greenblatt, Joseph Sweeney
  • Patent number: 10518706
    Abstract: A pop-up camper has a roof that is movable between a stored position where it is close to a perimeter wall and use position where it is raised away from the perimeter wall. The perimeter wall has a gap that receives a door that is attached to the pop-up camper at the floor level. The door pivots between a stored position where panel spans and seals a gap in the sidewall and use position where the panel folds down and a terminal edge is close to the ground. The door includes stringers with steps that extend between. Adjustable feet are received at the end of the stringers adjacent the terminal edge and telescopically slide between a stored position where the feet are locked from rotation and do not extend beyond the terminal edge and an extended position where the feet can pivot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Inventor: Anthony J. Granzotto
  • Patent number: 10449904
    Abstract: A safety platform includes a sliding frame capable of attaching to a unit, and a deck having at least one deck side. The deck is movable between a stowed position and a deployed position. The safety platform further includes a stair, ladder, or ramp operatively connected to the at least one deck side and capable of extending therefrom, at least one vertical post member connected to the deck, a handrail operatively connected to the at least one vertical post member, and a vertical toeboard operatively connected to the at least one deck side, excluding a portion of the deck operatively connected to the stair, ladder, or ramp. The handrail is configured to extend along and parallel to an outer side of the stair, ladder, or ramp, and the at least one deck side, excluding a portion of the deck operatively connected to the stair, ladder, or ramp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2019
    Assignee: General Truck Body Manufacturing Co.
    Inventors: Matthew Feinberg, James A. Braden, Abel Cruz, Jorge Lopez, Larry Munday, Christopher Reynolds, Ofelio Sosa
  • Patent number: 10146107
    Abstract: An autonomous traveling apparatus includes: an apparatus main body; an autonomous traveling control portion which causes the apparatus main body to autonomously travel with a designated traveling parameter; a boom provided on the apparatus main body; a lifting and lowering control portion which lifts and lowers a position of one end of the boom to a designated height on the apparatus main body; and a state control portion which controls the autonomous traveling control portion so that the traveling parameter is limited based on the position of the one end of the boom or controls the lifting and lowering control portion so that the position of the one end of the boom is limited based on the traveling parameter. With such a configuration, provided is the autonomous traveling apparatus capable of safely performing autonomous traveling, and lifting and lowering of the one end of the boom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2018
    Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Atsushi Etoh
  • Patent number: 10112542
    Abstract: A deploying ladder assembly configured to be associated with a vehicle and configured to be selectively placed into a deployed position and a stowed position, the deploying ladder assembly comprising an outrigger, an actuator, a ladder support, and a ladder. The actuator is associated with the outrigger, and is configured to selectively move the outrigger between the deployed position and the stowed position. The ladder support apparatus configured to be secured to the utility vehicle. The ladder is secured to the outrigger and moveably secured to the ladder support apparatus. The actuator imparts a force on the ladder through the outrigger, such that the ladder is in the deployed position while the outrigger is in the deployed position and the ladder is in the stowed position while the outrigger is in the stowed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2018
    Assignee: Altec Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: James A. Downing
  • Patent number: 9890590
    Abstract: A safety assembly is provided for placement on a roof of a building, near an edge of the roof, having a ladder restraint, an upstanding barrier, and a counterweight. The ladder restraint has an opening to receive a ladder that provides access to the roof. The opening is sized to restrict left and right sideways movement of the ladder. The upstanding barrier extends on left and right sides of the ladder restraint to block falls by a user. The counterweight is interconnected to both the ladder restraint and the upstanding barrier, and is disposed to prevent forward tipping of the upstanding barrier by the user, and to prevent sideways tipping of the ladder during use, when the safety assembly is placed on the roof and the ladder is received through the ladder restraint. The safety assembly may be assembled on the roof without penetrating the roof's waterproofing membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: NSAFE Engineering Inc.
    Inventors: Chester J. Budziak, Gregory C. Budziak, Adam P. Budziak
  • Patent number: 9582688
    Abstract: Provided among other things is a tagging system for identifying closely proximate stacked items (e.g., thin and flat closely spaced items) each of which is tagged with an electronic radiation emitting chip with a built-in antenna incorporated therein. The tagging system comprises: (1) the tagged, closely spaced items, wherein the electronic radiation emitting chips are affixed on, and within the width of, thin side edges of the items; and (2) an ID reader capable of reading the IDs (identifiers) stored electronically on the chips, wherein the electronic radiation emitting chips are sufficiently aligned on the items such that the chips can be serially read with the ID reader.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2017
    Assignee: Pharmaseq, Inc.
    Inventors: Maryann Gruda, Ziye “Jay” Qian
  • Patent number: 9248495
    Abstract: A platform mountable in a lower part of a die casting machine below the platens. The platform includes at least one pair of first and second coupled plates, the first plate affixed to an underlying base of the platform. The second plate is movable between first retracted positions overlaying the first plate to a second extended end-to-end co-planar position relative to the first plate to form an elongated co-planar platform surface. The base can support two pairs of coupled and longitudinally spaced first and second plates. An actuator coupled to each second plate for moving each second plate between the first retracted position and the second extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2016
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Doster, Jeffery L. Butler
  • Patent number: 9038778
    Abstract: An upright adaptor for a ladder tree stand converts that ladder tree stand into an upright tree stand. The adaptor includes a ladder stand base support which is attachable to the base of a tree and which receives the lower end of the ladder stand. A speed lock assembly is part of the upright adaptor and is attachable to an upper portion of the ladder tree stand. It includes a self-tapping screw and a double-acting ratchet wrench which is operable by a person standing on the ground once the ladder tree stand has been erected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Inventors: Robert Charles Carter, Ferdinand Larsh Carter
  • Patent number: 9033105
    Abstract: A rotatable elevated hunting blind includes a plurality of enclosure support legs; an enclosure base carried by the enclosure support legs, the enclosure base having a stationary base sprocket; a hunting blind enclosure carried by the enclosure base, the hunting blind enclosure rotatable with respect to the enclosure base; a seat assembly having a seat carried by the hunting blind enclosure; and a user-operable blind enclosure rotation mechanism carried by the hunting blind enclosure adjacent to the seat of the seat assembly, the blind enclosure rotation mechanism having a drive sprocket and a chain meshing with the base sprocket of the enclosure base and the pedal sprocket, the blind enclosure rotation mechanism operable to rotate the drive sprocket around the chain as the blind enclosure rotation mechanism revolves around the enclosure base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Inventor: Burl Boswell
  • Publication number: 20150096837
    Abstract: A platform for preservation of a crime scene is provided. The apparatus comprises a modular base with foot pegs. The foot pegs may be telescopic to allow for adaptation to any crime scene. The foot pegs are configured to have minimal footprint on the crime scene. The modular base is couplable to one or more modular bases, one or more stair adapters and to one or more optional components such as equipment platform and a workstation. The platform is portable and configured to be assembled at the crime scene.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2014
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Inventor: Peter AGUILAR
  • Patent number: 8997929
    Abstract: A ladder locking designed intended to prevent access to a tree stand and an attached ladder includes a two-piece interlocking frame, top and bottom hooks to engage rungs of the ladder, and a locking bar. The frames include a mesh covers having a width greater than the tree stand ladder. The frame is secured to the ladder by the top and bottom hooks, which provide opposing hangers hooked over and clamping ladder rungs. A bottom of the frame includes a locking bar which insertingly engages between the two frame sections and secured with a padlock. The frame is placed over a ladder and locked to prevent unwanted persons from ascending the ladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Inventors: David A. Todd, John Todd
  • Patent number: 8944212
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are generally related to a multi-sided ladder assembly and methods of utilizing the same. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to a multi-sided ladder assembly with substantially improved stability, providing for a wide range of applications. In one embodiment of the present invention, a multi-faced ladder assembly comprises: a plurality of individual ladders, a top platform positioned over a top of each of the plurality of ladders, and a plurality of support platforms, each support platform positioned at a bottom end of each of the individual ladders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Inventor: Ramalingam Vaidyaselvan
  • Patent number: 8925684
    Abstract: The present invention features a ladder shelf system for adding a generally planar rectangular shelf close to the top of a step ladder. The system has the generally planar rectangular shelf that is rigid with a step engagement member located on a shelf top surface. The step engagement member is adapted to fit inside an interior cavity of a top step of a step ladder. The system has a generally planar rectangular non-slip pad centrally located on the shelf top surface. The system has a locking lever located close to the shelf posterior end. In a first unlocked position, a first clamping member and a second clamping member lie on a plane perpendicular to the shelf top surface. In a second locked position, the first clamping member and the second clamping member lie on a plane parallel with the shelf top surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Inventor: Michael Frank Medina
  • Publication number: 20140367195
    Abstract: An apparatus that provides selectively deployable worker access with fall protection to at least a portion of the top of a container disposed above the ground. A gangway and its associated fall protection cage are selectively deployable from an elevated platform over the top of the container. The gangway and its associated cage are slidably connected to the platform via a track carried along the side of the platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2013
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Inventors: ALLAN J. MELTON, ALLYN THOMASSON, RODRICK WILLIAMSON
  • Patent number: 8910750
    Abstract: An improved tree stand includes an elongated frame having a vertical and horizontal section. A central platform extends in an opposite direction from the frame and includes a tree connection member. A seat is provided along the upper horizontal portion of the frame, and a shooting rail having a vertically adjustable back and side sections connect the top portion of the frame to the tree. An improved tree stand also includes a swivel mounted seat platform that transitions between an open and closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Inventor: Rhett Butler
  • Patent number: 8869938
    Abstract: A tree-mountable hunting stand having a support frame for attachment to a tree and including a horizontal support member, a hanger plate for suspended engagement with the horizontal support member, and a dual axis pivoting seat assembly attached to the hanger plate and including a saddle for supporting a hunter. The saddle includes a seat surface and a pommel extending upwardly from the seat surface. While the support frame is attached to a tree, the hanger plate can be selectively attached to and removed from the support frame to locate the dual axis pivoting seat assembly at a selected height along the support frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Inventor: Irwin Jay Bassett
  • Patent number: 8844676
    Abstract: A ladder-like access device is suited for securing to a tire of a vehicle by way of a strap, rope, chain, cable or similar structure. The device may include extendable legs to adapt its length to a range of wheel and tire sizes. A variety of structures, materials and construction methods are described and claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Inventor: Kim Carl Filkowski
  • Patent number: 8807278
    Abstract: A hunting stand apparatus includes a pair of posts each having a bottom end and a top end. Each of the posts is telescoping and includes a same number of a plurality of tubular members such that sets of tubular members are defined. Each of a plurality of rungs is attached to and extending between tubular members of each set. A plurality of locking members is provided for locking the sets in an extended position. A seat has a front edge pivotally coupled to an upper most one of the rungs. A pair of brackets is also provided. Brackets are attached to each of the posts. Each of a pair of supports is removably attached to and extends between one of the brackets and a back edge of the seat such that the seat is angled with respect to the posts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Inventors: Kevin S. Galloway, David E. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20140202794
    Abstract: An improved tree stand includes an elongated frame having a vertical and horizontal section. A central platform extends in an opposite direction from the frame and includes a tree connection member. A seat is provided along the upper horizontal portion of the frame, and a shooting rail having a vertically adjustable back and side sections connect the top portion of the frame to the tree. An improved tree stand also includes a swivel mounted seat platform that transitions between an open and closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Inventor: Rhett Butler
  • Publication number: 20140158464
    Abstract: An egress system for a machine comprising a cab body is provided. The egress system includes a first platform attached to a first lateral side of the cab body and a second platform attached to a second lateral side of the cab body. The first platform attached with a primary staircase is configured to board and exit from the cab body. A secondary staircase attached to the first platform is configured for exit during emergencies. The second platform is provided on a second lateral side of the cab body for storage. The second platform includes a first sidewall and a second sidewall such that the first sidewall is positioned laterally opposite to the second sidewall. The first sidewall and the second sidewall are provided with a plurality of mounting holes and a plurality of brackets connected to the first side wall and the second sidewall by at least one bolt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2014
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher G. Nowak, Purushoth J. Raju
  • Patent number: 8695762
    Abstract: An upright tree stand includes a base pole section with a support pad, an intermediate pole section or sections, a lowermost one of which is connected to the base pole section by a knuckle hinge, and a top pole section. The top pole section is provided with a top securement assembly which utilizes a self-tapping screw and a remotely operable, dual-action ratchet wrench. The base pole section is initially secured to a tree. The intermediate pole section or sections and the top pole section are then swung, about the knuckle hinge, into an upright position. This movement is accomplished with sufficient force to embed the tip of the self-tapping screw into the tree. Operation of the dual-action ratchet wrench, remotely from the ground, will accomplish the positive securement of the top of the upright tree stand to the tree while the user remains safely on the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Inventors: Robert Charles Carter, Ferdinand Larsh Carter
  • Patent number: 8695761
    Abstract: A ladder tree stand for supporting a hunter at an elevated position, comprising a seating platform assembly, a ladder assembly, and a truss assembly. The seating platform is adapted for frictional engagement with a tree. The ladder assembly has an upper end and a lower end, wherein the upper end of the ladder assembly is supportingly connected to the platform. The truss assembly includes a flexible cable and a brace. The flexible cable has a first end connected to the ladder assembly near the upper end of the ladder assembly and a second end connected to the ladder assembly near the lower end of the ladder assembly The brace is connected to the ladder assembly and in engagement with the flexible cable to space an intermediate portion of the flexible cable from the ladder assembly for tensioning the flexible cable to thereby brace the ladder assembly against deflection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Inventor: Ronald Berkbuegler
  • Patent number: 8662252
    Abstract: A carriage assembly includes a carriage frame, a caster, and a first jack body coupled to the carriage frame and the caster. The first jack body has a longitudinal axis. The first jack body is configured to selectively move the caster with respect to the carriage frame along the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Inventor: David Ogden
  • Patent number: 8627926
    Abstract: A reusable stair system may allow for access to a platform, for example, at the top of a ramp so that able people are not required to travel the entire distance of the ramp to reach the main platform. The reusable stair system can be easily assembled and disassembled, having a number of legs that are attached to adjacent stairs. Legs may have two attachment regions for two stairs on either side of each leg and one of the stairs being located at a greater height than the other stair. The desired height of the main platform at the top of the stair system will determine the number of legs and corresponding stairs that will be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Inventor: Julian D. Gordon
  • Patent number: 8602164
    Abstract: A dual-use ladder and bridge modular system preferably includes tubes, gussets, flanges, and/or joints. In a preferred embodiment, the tubes, gussets, flanges, and/or joints are made of carbon fiber. A method connects and disconnects modular carbon fiber ladder segments. Another method creates a lightweight carbon-fiber beam with exceptionally high stiffness and strength using a combination of carbon-fiber braid material, uni-directional cloth, and pultruded carbon-fiber strips. A carbon fiber ladder segment and tube connectors are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Allred & Associates Inc.
    Inventors: Jimmie B. Allred, III, Joseph Kummer, Michael D. Griswold, Michael J. Hall, Matthew A. Bush
  • Patent number: 8579083
    Abstract: A stepladder includes a front section having a right front rail and a left front rail in parallel and spaced relation with the right front rail, and front steps attached to the right and left front rails. The ladder includes a rear section having a right rear rail and a left rear rail in parallel and spaced relation with the right rear rail, and a rear horizontal attached to the right rear rail and the left rear rail. The ladder includes a top to which the front and rear sections are connected. The ladder includes a tray pivotally attached to the right and left rear rails having a closed position essentially in parallel with the right and left rear rails and an opened position essentially in parallel with ground, the tray pivoting up from the closed position to the open position. A method for using a stepladder. The method includes the steps of positioning a front section and a rear section of the stepladder attached to a top of the stepladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Werner Co.
    Inventor: Kyle G. Astor
  • Publication number: 20130248287
    Abstract: A ladder stand configured to attach to a post to provide an elevated platform. The ladder stand includes a ladder and a platform assembly coupled to the ladder. A pair of lateral support members include proximal ends pivotally attached to opposite sides of the platform and distal ends configured to be positioned toward an opposite side of the post. The distal ends of the support members are configured to be secured to the post. A stabilizer member pivotally connects to an intermediate portion of the ladder and extends toward with the support post. The stabilizing member includes a stabilizing plate configured to engage the support post. At least one support straps connects the distal ends of lateral support members to the post and the distal ends of the lateral support members to the stabilizing member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Inventors: Michael R. Furseth, Randy L. Schamberger, Scott R. Nickell, Ben T. Nelson
  • Patent number: 8540052
    Abstract: A hunting stand operable to provide an elevated position for a hunter wherein the platform of the stand includes a chair that is movably mounted on the platform. The chair is operably coupled to a base support member that is movably mounted within an annular channel that is integrally formed with the platform. The hunting stand further includes a frame having a plurality of longitudinal support members and horizontal support members. The platform further includes a centrally located hole that is operable to facilitate the positioning of the hunting stand such that the platform is surroundably mounted a tree. A plurality of apertures are journaled through the upper surface of the platform adjacent to the channel and function to receive a locking pin that functions to releasably secure the base support member in a position along the channel. The platform includes a railing mounted adjacent the perimeter of the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Inventor: Devin Brown
  • Publication number: 20130233646
    Abstract: A mobile and stabilizing scaffold apparatus is provided having a frame, an elevated worker platform, roller wheels, and a plurality of stabilizing members that extend from the frame for stability and vertical positioning of the frame. The frame includes longitudinal side members and end members to provide a largely rectangular structure to support the elevated worker platform. A pair of forward and rear extension members support jack pads that are vertically adjustable to support the frame in a level configuration over uneven or sloping surfaces. A pair of laterally extending roller extension members supports forward rollers outside of the frame extents, whereby the forward rollers are height adjustable. The front roller wheels and a pair of rear rollers provide mobility for the apparatus and are lockable during deployment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Inventor: Carl Boysaw
  • Publication number: 20130161127
    Abstract: A dual-use ladder and bridge modular system preferably includes tubes, gussets, flanges, and/or joints. In a preferred embodiment, the tubes, gussets, flanges, and/or joints are made of carbon fiber. In one embodiment, a removable platform converts the segmented ladder system into a bus assault ladder/platform. Another preferred embodiment includes a bridge conversion kit. Yet another preferred embodiment includes a stretcher cover. When none of the bus assault platform, the bridge conversion kit, or the stretcher cover are needed, the ladder can be used as normal, or stored in a carry bag.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2013
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: ALLRED & ASSOCIATES INC.
    Inventor: ALLRED & ASSOCIATES INC.
  • Patent number: 8448748
    Abstract: A dual-use ladder and bridge modular system preferably includes tubes, gussets, flanges, and/or joints. In a preferred embodiment, the tubes, gussets, flanges, and/or joints are made of carbon fiber. A method connects and disconnects modular carbon fiber ladder segments. Another method creates a lightweight carbon-fiber beam with exceptionally high stiffness and strength using a combination of carbon-fiber braid material, uni-directional cloth, and pultruded carbon-fiber strips. A carbon fiber ladder segment and tube connectors are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Allred & Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Jimmie B. Allred, III, Joseph Kummer, Michael D. Griswold, Michael J. Hall, Matthew A. Bush
  • Patent number: 8424639
    Abstract: A combination tree stand and hand truck are herein disclosed, comprising a seat mounted on the bottom of a conventional wheeled hand truck. The rear of the hand truck comprises a plurality of cross members and is attached via a pair of hinges to an additional section of a ladder like structure that is capable of being foldable extended to form a ladder. In use, the wheeled hand truck may be used to transport items to and from a hunting location. Once at a hunting location, the hand truck may be converted into a tree stand by deploying the folding ladder section and placing the deployed stand upside down against a tree or other structure therewith a securing means. The apparatus is particularly useful in game lands and other restricted hunting areas where an all-terrain vehicle or other motorized vehicle is not permitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Inventor: Gregory J. Davis
  • Patent number: 8397867
    Abstract: A tree stand adapted to create a spiral step around a tree includes a trunk connector bracket with a top, a bottom, a first side, and a second side. The trunk connector bracket is adapted to be mounted to a tree by its top being in tension and its bottom being in compression. A first platform is mounted approximate to the bottom of said trunk connector bracket approximate to the first side. A second platform is mounted approximate to the top of the trunk connector bracket approximate to the second side. The first and second platforms create a spiral step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Inventor: Cretice Gary Benefield
  • Publication number: 20130048400
    Abstract: An access device for a mobile machine that includes a platform, an upper, fixed position ladder extending downward from the platform, and a lower ladder pivotally connected to a lower end of the upper ladder, the lower ladder having a rail arm that extends from a rear face of the lower ladder that is connected to a push arm that extends above the platform, wherein a downward force on the push arm pivots the lower ladder from a lowered to a raised position. A latch mechanism may be provided on the push arm, the push arm connected to a pivoting striker arm such that downward movement of the push arm causes the striker arm to pivot upward to engage the latch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: William Holdener, Eswara P. Dontamsetti
  • Patent number: 8381874
    Abstract: An ergonomic worker support system. There is provided an apparatus for ergonomically supporting a user in any of a variety of positions while working. The stand apparatus includes a base from which an upright stem extends to an extension of stems fitting, which fitting in turn supports an upper torso support member. A stem extender piece may be provided between the upright stem and the upper torso support member. These various components are adjustable relative to one another to permit versatility in apparatus configuration. Convenience features are disclosed for reducing stress and supporting either the upper or lower portion of a user's body. The apparatus includes features that reduce stress, conserve energy, and facilitate increased work productivity of physically challenged persons as well able-bodied users. The ergonomic stand, in operational position, provides a sturdy, balanced, adjustable, and ergonomic platform for the support of the worker, appliances and tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventor: Edward G. Blemel
  • Publication number: 20120299258
    Abstract: A portable tree stand includes a base and a telescoping ladder. The base includes a platform and an attachment bracket mounted to the platform. The ladder is telescopically movable over a range over travel between a collapsed position and an extended position. The ladder includes a top rung segment having a top rung. The top rung of the telescoping ladder is removably attached to the attachment bracket of the base, A user can secure the tree stand base in an elevated position to a tree, disconnect the ladder from the base in the elevated position, and use the ladder to access another tree stand base in an elevated position at another site or other basic functions. Additionally, the ladder can be modified to be used as a game carrier cart.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: Outdoor Life Products, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel P. Gallagher, Robert E. McCarthy
  • Publication number: 20120211306
    Abstract: A tree stand adapted to create a spiral step around a tree includes a trunk connector bracket with a top, a bottom, a first side, and a second side. The trunk connector bracket is adapted to be mounted to a tree by its top being in tension and its bottom being in compression. A first platform is mounted approximate to the bottom of said trunk connector bracket approximate to the first side. A second platform is mounted approximate to the top of the trunk connector bracket approximate to the second side. The first and second platforms create a spiral step.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2011
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Inventor: Cretice Gary Benefield
  • Publication number: 20120181110
    Abstract: Described herein is a tree stand that includes a platform that substantially surrounds a trunk of a tree, a chair that moves from one end of the platform to the other, and a seat that swivels. This tree stand allows the hunter to have an unobstructed 360 degree view whereby he or she may see game in all directions. The tree stand may also include steel teeth, ratchet straps, columns, and a ladder to provide support for the platform. The platform is adjustable to various elevations on the tree.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2011
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Inventor: Daniel Adam Browning
  • Publication number: 20120168249
    Abstract: An elevated hunting stand includes a ladder assembly and a platform assembly. A pair of vertical uprights is connected to the platform at a front portion of the platform. A pair of vertical uprights is connected to the platform at a rear portion of the platform. A pair of horizontal stabilizer members is attached to the vertical uprights. A pair of enclosure gates is attached to the vertical uprights. The vertical uprights, the horizontal stabilizer member, and the pair of enclosure gates form an enclosure on the platform. The enclosure gates are movable from an open position to a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Applicant: ARDISAM, INC.
    Inventors: Michael R. Furseth, Scott R. Nickell, Randy L. Schamberger, Benjamin T. Nelson
  • Publication number: 20120118668
    Abstract: Rescue training equipment includes a mock up structure with at least one platform and a base structure adapted to be detachably attached to a basement on ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2009
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Inventors: Claus Lundgaard Ernstsen, Henning Lausen, Dan Buch Madsen
  • Patent number: 8151937
    Abstract: An ergonomic worker support stand with convenience features for reducing stress and supporting either the upper or lower portion of a person's body is disclosed. The stand is designed for safety, convenience and comfort in performing worker tasks. My patent includes features that reduce stress, conserve energy, and facilitate increased work productivity are important to physically challenged persons as well an able bodied worker. The stand is separable, adjustable and foldable to make it compact for storage purposes. The ergonomic stand, in the operational position, provides a sturdy, balanced, adjustable, and ergonomic platform for the support of the worker, appliances and tools. The stand has features for lighting of the workspace, holding work related accessories, powering electrically, hydraulically or pneumatically operated tools. The stand has ports for connecting personal data assistants, wireless communications, and computers used in accessing worker instructions and information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Inventor: Edward Gerald Blemel