Chock Patents (Class 188/36)
  • Patent number: 11260834
    Abstract: A convex wheel chock includes a contact surface generally facing a vehicle tire, a support element connected to the contact surface to transfer a tire load from the contact surface, and a base portion coupled to the support element to provide structural support to the wheel chock and transfer the tire load to a ground surface. The contact surface includes a convex surface to be engaged by the tire, extending generally upwards from the base portion to the support element, and a concave extension surface joined to an upper end of the convex surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2022
    Assignee: DL Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald L. Metz, Kristian P. Garrow, Kyle J. Berean
  • Patent number: 10676295
    Abstract: Monitoring and alerting systems for detecting hazardous conditions at loading docks are disclosed. An example monitoring and alerting system includes a first sensor system to monitor a location of a first brace of a first dock station of the loading dock. The first brace being positionable in a first stored position, a first operative position, and a first transition position, where the first transition position is between the first stored position and the first operative position. A second sensor system is to monitor a location of a second brace of a second dock station of the loading dock adjacent the first dock station. The second brace is positionable in a second stored position, a second operative position, and a second transition position, where the second transition position is between the second stored position and the second operative position. A first signaling device at the first dock station is responsive to outputs of the first sensor system and the second sensor system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2020
    Assignee: RITE-HITE HOLDING CORPORATION
    Inventors: Joseph Manone, Matthew Sveum
  • Patent number: 10518718
    Abstract: A mounting assembly for a chock block for a wheel of a machine includes a first bracket configured to be attached to a pocket of a ripper of the machine. The first bracket includes a central plate and two side plates extending from the central plate. The mounting assembly also includes a second bracket configured to be attached to the first bracket. The second bracket includes a pair of support rods extending therefrom. The pair of support rods is configured to removably mount the chock block thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony James Piraino
  • Patent number: 10179572
    Abstract: A wheel chock includes a convex load surface configured to be engaged by a vehicle tire. The resultant force exerted by the vehicle tire on the wheel chock can be expressed as a vector normal to the convex surface, at a contact angle ?. As dynamic loading forces push the vehicle into the wheel chock, the tire rides up the convex surface of the chock, thereby increasing the contact angle ?. For contact angles greater than 45°, the vertical component of the resultant force will increase, and the horizontal component will decrease. The net effect is that, under dynamic loading, the chock will tend to anchor itself downwards rather than slide backwards or tip over. Also disclosed is a chock extractor secured to the wheel chock. Rotating the extractor handle in turn rotates an extractor foot, which pivots and lifts the wheel chock off the ground to disengage the chock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2019
    Inventors: Donald L. Metz, Kristian P. Garrow, Kyle J. Berean
  • Patent number: 9663123
    Abstract: A rail brake includes a rigid enclosure which mounts under a crane so as to dispose the base end of the enclosure over and adjacent a rail. A spring carriage is mounted for vertical translation within the enclosure. Springs are mounted between the spring carriage and the top of the enclosure so that the springs are compressed when the spring carriage is elevated. A brake shoe is mounted under the carriage. Actuators are mounted between the spring carriage and the base end of the enclosure. Extension of the actuators compress the springs and elevate the brake shoe from the rail. Retraction allows the springs to drive the brake shoe against the rail. Elevation of the brake shoe aligns a pair of spline joints between the sides of the brake shoe and corresponding channel walls underneath the enclosure. Removable elongate keys provide the locking splines in the pair of spline joints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2017
    Assignee: Hillmar Industries Limited
    Inventor: Ian W. Bourhill
  • Patent number: 9126775
    Abstract: Example wheel restraint systems include example wheel chocks for blocking a wheel of a vehicle at a loading dock. In some examples, the wheel chock is movable between a stored position and a wheel-blocking position. In the wheel-blocking position, the chock latches onto a track that is mounted to a driveway of the loading dock. In the stored position, the chock is spaced apart from the track. In some examples, a lifting mechanism, such as a hoist or a spring-loaded articulated arm, helps carry at least some of the chock's weight as the chock is manually moved between its stored and wheel-blocking positions. In some examples, the chock includes a rotatable lever for selectively latching and unlatching the chock to the track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Assignee: RITE-HITE HOLDING CORPORATION
    Inventors: Andrew Brooks, Ben Wieberdink, Kurt Lessard, Timothy Cotton
  • Patent number: 8967931
    Abstract: An apparatus for securing a cargo item within a cargo area that is defined by a pickup truck bed and a bed liner that is disposed within the pickup truck bed, the bed liner defining a plurality of elongate grooves. The apparatus includes a rod that extends along an axis in an axial direction of the rod. An engaging structure is receivable within at least one groove from the plurality of elongate grooves of the bed liner for engagement with the bed liner. An adjustable connecting structure connects the engaging structure to the rod and allows adjustment of an axial position of the engaging structure along the rod in the axial direction of the rod. A body is connected to the rod for engaging the cargo item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Inventors: Troy Brownlie, John Raut
  • Patent number: 8887874
    Abstract: The device for chocking a goods transportation vehicle at a dock comprises a horizontal support (1) designed to be anchored on the ground fronting a loading dock, a horizontal platen (2) mounted slidingly on a horizontal support (1), a rear chock (3), designed to constitute a stop for the last rear wheel train of the vehicle to be chocked at the dock, the said rear chock being integral with the said platen, a front movable thrust-action chock (4), carried by the horizontal platen (2) at a distance from the rear chock (3), the said platen (2) being actuated slidingly along the support (1) between an anterior rest position and a posterior position of chocking the transportation vehicle at the dock by a motor assembly (5), which is also capable of immobilizing the platen both in anterior rest position and in the position of chocking at the dock and maintaining it in these positions, and the front thrust-action chock being able to occupy a release position, in which it is spaced apart from the trajectory of the r
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: A.S.A Fermetures
    Inventor: Ignace Bellota
  • Patent number: 8869948
    Abstract: Wheel chocks for use with loading docks are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a manual wheel chock configured in accordance with the present disclosure includes a restraint arm pivotally coupled to a carriage that is rollably mounted to a longitudinal guide rail. The restraint arm is rotatable in a first direction to move a wheel stop in front of a wheel of a vehicle parked adjacent the guide rail. The restraint arm is also rotatable in a second direction opposite to the first direction to move the wheel stop away from the vehicle wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: 4Front Engineered Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: David Saliger, L. Blake Whitley
  • Patent number: 8657078
    Abstract: A wheel chock including a head for engagement with a vehicle wheel. The head has a blade that defines a pair of conjoined wedges oriented 180° apart. A hosel is affixed to, and extends laterally from, the middle of the blade. A handle is affixed to, and extends upwardly from, the hosel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Inventor: Stephen D. Wolfram
  • Patent number: 8590673
    Abstract: A wheel restraint includes a wheel chock that is manually movable between a retracted position clear of a wheel of a vehicle at a loading dock and an operative position to block the path of the wheel. In the retracted position, the chock can be manually moved freely along a track that is mounted to a driveway of the dock. When the chock is manually moved from its retracted position to its operative position, a locking feature automatically restricts the movement of the chock relative to the track. When the chock is manually moved back to its retracted position, the locking feature automatically disengages. Although the wheel chock is connected to a track, most of the force exerted by the wheel against the chock is transmitted directly from the chock to the driveway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Rite-Hite Holding Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathan Andersen, Timothy Cotton, Norbert Hahn, Joseph A. Manone, Kyle E. Nelson, Reinhard E. Sander
  • Patent number: 8567571
    Abstract: A friction rail skate comprising a base having a guide portion for supporting and steering along a rail and a tongue where the base is detachably connected to the tongue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: L&M Pattern Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Edward Neff, Jerry L. Lockridge, Wendell M. Scott
  • Patent number: 8499899
    Abstract: A wheel chock system for preventing movement of one or more wheels. The system may include a pair of chocks for clamping onto one or more wheels. The chocks may be connected through a linkage mechanism that can be rotated to draw the chocks together or move the chocks further apart. A handle may be attached to the linkage mechanism for moving the chock system from a blocking position to a released position. The handle may be configured to stand upright such that the chock system can be installed and removed by a user in a standing position without the need to bend or crouch. One embodiment of the chock system may be attachable to two different wheels in a tandem wheel arrangement, whereas another embodiment of the chock system may be configured to clamp onto a single wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Progress Mfg. Inc.
    Inventor: Gary M. Scott
  • Patent number: 8443945
    Abstract: Vehicle chocking systems include a first chock comprising a first bottom surface, a first front wheel restraining surface and a first rear wheel restraining surface opposite the first front wheel restraining surface, a second chock comprising a second bottom surface, a second front wheel restraining surface and a second rear wheel restraining surface, wherein the first bottom surface, the first front wheel restraining surface and the first rear wheel restraining surface of the first chock and the second bottom surface, the second front wheel restraining surface and the second rear wheel restraining surface of the second chock each comprises a proximity sensor, wherein the proximity sensors are communicatively coupled to a controller comprising a processor and a memory having a computer readable and executable instruction set to determine if the proximity sensors for each of the first bottom surface, the second bottom surface and opposing wheel restraining surfaces are engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Blair Charles Perkins
  • Patent number: 8365875
    Abstract: A tire chock having an at least partially threaded rod; a first trunnion having an aperture therethrough that receives the rod; first and second locking members, one locking member being rotatably fixed relative to the rod, the other locking member being rotatably fixed relative to the first trunnion. A tire chock may alternatively have an at least partially threaded rod; an upper trunnion rotatably attached to the rod; a lower trunnion threadedly attached to the rod, the lower trunnion translating axially relative to the rod upon rotation of the rod relative to the lower trunnion; a pair of linkage arms, the pair of linkage arms forming an X-shape, each linkage arm being connected to the lower trunnion by a drive arm and being connected to the upper trunnion by a support arm, wherein, as the rod is rotated relative to the lower trunnion, the linkage arms expand or contract.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Norco Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Bernard F. Garceau
  • Patent number: 8360206
    Abstract: Cart securing structures are provided for securing shopping carts. In one embodiment, the structures include a body having a pair of spaced stops with an intermediate trough. In use, the wheels of the cart are rolled along an upwardly extending face of one of the stops, over the stop and into the trough between the stops. In one embodiment, advertising is located on the surfaces of one or more of the stops. In one embodiment, an electronic display is located on one of the faces of the structure and a control system is provided for presenting advertising and other information using the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Inventor: Ronald Scheffer
  • Patent number: 8317000
    Abstract: A wheel stop is disclosed which is engaged by a wheel of a vehicle in an attempt to be parked in a parking lot, to limit movement of the vehicle. The wheel stop includes a middle extending portion, first and second leg portions, all of which are integrally formed with a metal pipe. The wheel stop further includes first and second anchor plates affixed to the first and second leg portions, respectively, the anchor plates being anchored to the parking lot; an electric cable disposed within the metal pipe; and an electric outlet disposed on an outer surface of the metal pipe, and connected with the electric cable, to thereby allow, when the vehicle parked in the parking lot is an electric car, a power supply cable extending from the electric car to be plugged into the electric outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: MEC Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Sadao Miki
  • Patent number: 8307956
    Abstract: A wheel restraint for restraining a vehicle at a loading dock includes various features such as, a wheel chock supported by a spring loaded articulated arm with a spring that can be selectively tightened or released, a sensor that detects whether the chock is solidly against a base plate or floor, a bi-directional pivotal joint between the articulated arm and the wheel chock to ensure that the chock can sit squarely on a mating base plate, a wheel chock that meshes with a hydraulically actuated base plate, pivotal or otherwise movable backstops that prevent a wheel chock from sliding out of position, and a base plate cleaning system. The cleaning system might include a vehicle-actuated brush, fluid spray nozzles, electric heater and removable cover plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Rite-Hite Holding Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathan Andersen, Eric Bublitz, Timothy Cotton, John A. Kish, Kurt Lessard, Timothy Muhl, Kyle E. Nelson, Pamela Pietrangelo, Reinhard E. Sander, Matt Sveum, Benjamin Wieberdink
  • Patent number: 8286757
    Abstract: A wheel restraint for restraining a vehicle at a loading dock includes various features such as, a wheel chock supported by a spring loaded articulated arm with a spring that can be selectively tightened or released, a sensor that detects whether the chock is solidly against a base plate or floor, a bi-directional pivotal joint between the articulated arm and the wheel chock to ensure that the chock can sit squarely on a mating base plate, a wheel chock that meshes with a hydraulically actuated base plate, pivotal or otherwise movable backstops that prevent a wheel chock from sliding out of position, and a base plate cleaning system. The wheel restraint also includes a first vertical resistance feature that is coupled to the base and a second vertical resistance feature that is coupled to the wheel chock to limit vertical movement between the wheel chock and the base when the first vertical resistance feature engages the second vertical resistance feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Rite-Hite Holding Corporation
    Inventor: Kyle Nelson
  • Patent number: 8033367
    Abstract: An axial damper for elements having a cylindrical, rectangular or squared section, includes two identical fixing clamps, each fixing clamp including an upper part and a lower part connected to each other by a clamping device to be wound around the elements. At least two rafter-tie-rods are each connected at two ends thereof to the clamps. The rafter-tie-rods are placed equidistant from each other in the case of more than two rafter-tie-rods. The damper also includes two damping systems, each including two or more blocks of elastomeric material, with a pre-compressed elastic element interposed therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Snamprogetti S.p.A.
    Inventor: Paolo Minola
  • Patent number: 8006811
    Abstract: A wheel restraint for restraining a vehicle at a loading dock includes a flexible elongate member with one end that can be manually wrapped at least partially around at least one of the vehicle's wheels. The other end of the elongate member is connected to an anchor that is generally fixed relative to the dock. The anchor preferably includes a reel for taking up slack in the elongate member. When the restraint is not in use, the reel can take up and store the elongate member. The restraint preferably provides a signal that indicates whether the wheel is actually restrained. The restraint might also include a wheel chock coupled to the elongate member. A floor-mounted guide can help prevent interference between the elongate member and certain parts of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Rite-Hite Holding Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathan Andersen, Timothy Cotton, Kurt Lessard, Benjamin Wieberdink
  • Patent number: 7753177
    Abstract: A wheel chock assembly is provided having a base member extending axially from a top end to a bottom end, first and second support members whose upper ends are pivotally and slidably engaged with respect to the base member, first and second wheel chocks mounted with respect to the lower ends of the support members, and an adjustment mechanism mounted to the base member. The adjustment mechanism is operatively engaged to the support members to achieve axial movement of their upper ends with respect to the base member to extend and retract them within a range that permits the assembly to grip the wheel of a cart between the wheel chocks. Preferably, the adjustment mechanism is a cord secured to the main member of the base member such that pulling the cord upward draws the main member into the handle of the base member, extending the support members outward, while releasing the cord withdraws the main member from the handle, retracting the support members inward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Inventor: Rita Slager
  • Patent number: 7581623
    Abstract: A method for fixedly positioning commercial kitchen equipment is provided. A ramped stop comprises a body having an upstanding front ramp portion having opposing forwardly and rearwardly sloping surfaces for the passage of a wheel therealong, a rear ramp portion extending rearwardly from the rearwardly sloping surface. The rear ramp portion being of a height at least as great as the front ramp portion. A wheel receiving portion positioned between the front ramp portion and the rear ramp portion and interconnecting the front and rear ramp portions. Lateral wheel support elements attached to the body of the stop on the bottom floor of the stop and extending the length of the stop. A plurality of securing holes in the bottom floor of the stop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Inventor: John M. Egnor
  • Patent number: 7273197
    Abstract: An apparatus for a storage stand for a shopping cart 12 and baby stroller 13 which will keep the shopping cart or baby stroller erect and immobile with a pair of adjustable spring-hinged arms 19 having bungee cords 20 positioned on the outside to keep the cart in the folded position. The apparatus 10 also has a locking pin 40 that can slide vertically to lock the clamps 19 in an upright position. One distal end of the front arm or clamp 19 comprises a loop member 32 where the bungee cord 20 passes through to the second arm or clamp having a ring 30 positioned at its distal end for connecting the bungee cord hooks thereto. The base 14 forming the housing is comprised of slidably engaging members at 22, one forming a shell for the other to selectively slide into and out at the user's discretion. Each of the sliding members has a cavity forming a wheel well 16.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Inventors: Kenwyn Huggins, Karen Huggins
  • Patent number: 7264092
    Abstract: Wheel chock restraint system comprising a wheel chock, a supporting element mounted on the ground near a loading dock and a support assembly connected by one end to the wheel chock and by another end near the loading dock. A base portion of the chock is provided with first engagement elements and the supporting elements are provided with corresponding second engagement elements, cooperating to create a retention force to prevent the chock from sliding away from the wheel of a vehicle attempting to depart prematurely. The first engagement elements comprise teeth extending downwardly under an angle and the second engagement elements are stoppers extending upwardly from the supporting element. This system also comprises an anti-theft locking device; which, together with the first and second engagement elements, securely locks the chock on the wheel of the vehicle to prevent any unauthorized removal of the chock and theft of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: GMK Safety Inc.
    Inventor: Gaetan Jetté
  • Patent number: 7185744
    Abstract: A roller system for moving a load a predetermined distance includes a chock frame having a pair of spaced chocks connected between a pair of rigid siderails and a freely moveable roller unit. The roller unit includes a plurality of rollers and is positioned between the siderails and freely moveable between the pair of spaced chocks. The load may then be moved in inchmeal fashion by slowly advancing the roller unit while shuffling the chock frame on the ground at a similar pace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: Triodyne Safety Systems, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Ralph Lipsey Barnett
  • Patent number: 7036637
    Abstract: A tire chocking apparatus consisting of first and second tire chocks, a spreader jack interconnecting the first and second tire chocks; a handle fixedly attached to or formed wholly with the spreader jack, the handle extending upwardly from the spreader jack, the handle having an upper end; a reciprocatable member mounted moveably upon the handle's upper end; and a drive linkage interconnecting the reciprocatable member and the spreader jack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Inventor: Randy Wiens
  • Patent number: 7032720
    Abstract: Wheel chock restraint system comprising a wheel chock, a supporting element mounted on the ground in vicinity of a loading dock and a wheel chock support assembly connected by one end to the wheel chock and by another end in vicinity of the loading dock. A base portion of the chock is provided with first engagement elements and the supporting elements are provide with corresponding second engagement elements. The first engagement elements are adapted to cooperate with the second engagement elements, thus creating a retention force directed away from the loading dock and preventing the chock from sliding away from the wheel of a vehicle making an attempt to depart prematurely from the loading dock. Wheel chock support assembly is adapted to ensure a secure positioning of the chock under the wheel of the vehicle during loading and unloading operation by creating an engagement force directed towards the loading dock and pressing the chock against the wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Inventors: Gaetan Jette, Renée Chartier
  • Patent number: 7000737
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for securing a wheeled device such as a shopping cart is disclosed. In one embodiment, the securing structure comprises a depression formed in a support surface, such as a concrete or asphalt parking lot. The depression is configured to accept one or more wheels of a wheeled cart therein for restraining the cart. An advertising platform is located in the depression. The advertising platform bears advertising or other information. Another embodiment of the invention is an advertising platform for use with a cart securing structure which is mounted to a support surface. The platform may span the space between two securing structures, the platform having a top surface configured to bear advertising or other information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Inventor: Ronald Scheffer
  • Patent number: 6957722
    Abstract: A vehicle chocking system includes a control panel positionable within a vehicle for remotely operating the system. The system further includes a housing and a power source for supplying power to the system. The housing includes a motor disposed therein and electrically connected to the control panel. The system further includes a chock arm pivotally connected to the motor and a tire chock connected to the chock arm and engageable with a vehicle tire for preventing same from rotating in a predetermined direction. The chock arm includes an elongated pin connected thereto and extending outwardly therefrom. The tire chock has a slot formed therein for receiving the pin so that the tire chock can be engaged with, and disengaged from, a vehicle tire. The system further includes a plurality of collars securable to each other and engageable about a vehicle axle for assisting to maintain same at a non-rotating position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Inventor: Daniel J. Baskerville, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6948593
    Abstract: A self-tightening wheel chock is disclosed for vehicles, such as light aircraft, that can be easily installed and easily removed. The wheel chock can be affixed to a wheel of the vehicle for retention thereof, is weather resistant and lightweight, and will provide a simple, yet reliable, system for protecting parked vehicles such as light aircraft from buffeting by wind or backwash.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Inventor: Steven K. Horton
  • Patent number: 6823969
    Abstract: A braking device acts on a guide rail and consists of a housing that is arranged at an elevator car yoke and serves as a support for spring packets and/or for adjusting packets. The housing also serves as a support and guide for chock guide elements that in turn retain and guide brake chocks with brake linings. Pushrods engage at one end at the brake chocks, and at the other end are pivotably connected to an actuating fork. Upon braking of the elevator car, the actuating fork is moved at the pushrod end in the direction of the braking device. The guided brake chocks with the brake linings slide in the braking device. At the same time the brake linings are moved at the guide leg of the guide rail. The brake chocks are moved in the braking device and the spring and adjusting packets are stressed, whereby a braking force for stopping an elevator car or a counterweight is generated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Assignee: Inventio AG
    Inventors: Oliver Simmonds, Stefan Hugel, Julien Maury, Peter Möri, Peter Aeschlimann
  • Publication number: 20040226780
    Abstract: A wheel chock has an elongated body with a triangularly shaped cross section defined by the widths of a flat bottom surface and a pair of flat side members. A first end of the body has integral handle means extending away from the bottom surface and having grip means positioned a preselected distance from the bottom surface. The other end of the body is flat and transverse to the longitudinal axis of the body to facilitate the optional standing the body “on end”.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2003
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Inventors: Todd J. Olson, Steven E. Wirth
  • Patent number: 6505713
    Abstract: A tire locating wheel restraint for securing a parked vehicle against movement in one direction is provided. The wheel restraint includes a trigger for sensing the position of a tire of the vehicle, and collapsible locking assembly for engaging and restraining the tire. The trigger and collapsible locking assembly travel along a path within a base on which the vehicle is parked. Once the tire is sensed, the collapsible locking assembly is erected and moves longitudinally relative to the trigger until the tire is engaged and restrained. The relative movement between the trigger and the locking assembly enables the wheel restraint to secure tires of different sizes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Rite-Hite Holding Corporation
    Inventors: Lester W. Paul, Arthur S. Ellis
  • Patent number: 6425465
    Abstract: A locking wheel chock apparatus for use with tent trailers, travel trailers and boat trailers having single or dual axles. The chock apparatus functions not only to hold a trailer in position, but also to limit the rocking or rotational movement of tire and wheel combination where a tent or travel trailer is used for camping, i.e. living conditions. The chock apparatus generally comprises a pair of metal chock assemblies which are movably linked together by a screw driven mechanism for tightening and loosening that the chock assemblies about that the tread area of a single tire and wheel assembly. A first embodiment of the chock apparatus uses a shaft-like drive mechanism having a centrally located hand grip and right and left hand thread screws. Both manual and wrench assisted tightening and loosening of the chock assemblies is attainable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2002
    Assignee: Norco Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew Tallman, Robert Fox
  • Patent number: 6390245
    Abstract: A wheel chock assembly includes a wheel chock having a substantially triangular cross-section and a handle having a lower end detachably secured to the bottom wall of the wheel chock and an upper end having a hand grip secured thereto. The hand grip is disposed in a plane substantially perpendicular to a plane of a side wall of the wheel chock and the handle is provided with an intermediate portion connecting the upper and lower ends substantially orthogonally to each other. The handle is formed from a hollow continuous tube with the lower end thereof w adapted to rest on the ground beneath the wheel chock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Inventor: Donald Metz
  • Patent number: 6290029
    Abstract: A novel compact adjustable wheel chock assembly for retainment of multi-size wheels (11) comprising of a one-piece flat rigid base plate (12) having a front-right surface (13), a front-left surface (14), a rear-right surface (15), a rear-left surface (16), a front-right wheel chock (17), mounted on the front-right surface (13) having a sideways adjustment device (19), a rear-right wheel chock (18) located on the rear-right surface (15), having a forward-backward adjustment device (20), a front-left wheel chock (21), mounted on the front-left surface (14), having a sideways adjustment device (23), a rear-left wheel chock (22) located on the rear-left surface (16), having a forward-backward adjustment device (24), an attachment hole (25) located on the front-right surface (13) and an attachment hole (26) located on the front-left surface (14) both having a mechanical device to attach the one-piece flat rigid base plate (12) to a supporting substructure surface, a tie-down strap (27) having a mechanical device t
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Inventors: Tyler Wilson Gubler, Kirkman Z. Mitchell
  • Patent number: 6203266
    Abstract: A vehicular wheelchair lift with a power controlled safety barrier for physically blocking a wheelchair from inadvertently rolling off a platform of the wheelchair lift during use. The power safety barrier utilizes a linkage mechanism to open or close a roll stop. The linkage mechanism includes a pair of linkage bars and a flexible linkage member to mechanically connect the roll stop to a power actuating device. The roll stop is pivotably mounted to an outer end of the platform. The roll stop is required to open and close relative to the platform according to the relative platform positions. When the platform is in the ground position, the roll stop is opened substantially in a horizontal plane and is an extension of the platform for unloading the wheelchair. In the powered control aspects, during the wheelchair lift transition period when platform is off the ground position, the roll stop is actuated to the closed position before the wheelchair lift can be operated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: Ricon Corporation
    Inventors: Pierre Savaria, Dante Vincent DeLeo
  • Patent number: 5887462
    Abstract: A force multiplier is employed to embed a compression element or elements of a vehicular chock assembly in one or both sidewalls of a tire to effect a positive interlock therewith. The force multiplier is then locked to the chock assembly to maintain the interlock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1999
    Inventor: Wayne B. Stone
  • Patent number: 5727658
    Abstract: A train brake device including a chocking member dimensioned for positioning around a train wheel is disclosed. A gear assembly is secured to a rear face of the chocking member. A rail clamping assembly is positioned beneath a rail of a train track and extends upwardly through the gear assembly for engagement therewith. A pawl is secured within the gear assembly for selective engagement therewith. The main usage of the present invention is for positioning around work equipment. When in place around a train wheel, the present invention will prevent injury to train crew members by blocking and preventing the wheel from rolling. This is especially important when no cabooses are present and crew members must place flashing red lights on the rear of the train.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1998
    Inventor: Toby J. Petrzelka
  • Patent number: 5685397
    Abstract: A wheel chock assembly for chocking the wheel of a railroad car including a chock having at least one inclined ramp surface, a bottom surface, and opposite side surfaces. Each one of the opposite side surfaces of the chock contains a bore. A positioner presents an elongate arm with a retriever at one end thereof. The retriever has a projection which is receivable within a selected one of the bores in the opposite side surfaces. When the projection engages a selected one of the bores, the positioner can carry the chock for the selective positioning of the chock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1997
    Assignee: Central Sales and Service Inc.
    Inventors: Wilson Maddox, Billy Cobb
  • Patent number: 5685227
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a brake assembly, for overhead conveyers of the type which are suspended from and move along a rail and more particularly, a leaf spring brake or wedge assembly for an overhead trolley which wedges two pairs of wheels in a track for a secure braking system to stabilize the suspended system against movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1997
    Assignee: Premark FEG L.L.C.
    Inventors: Joseph M. Gaccetta, Karl S. Schroeder
  • Patent number: 5473992
    Abstract: A small braking apparatus, which is able to completely and suddenly stop a moving portion such as a linear direct current motor at a desired location, is described, together with a drive unit equipped with the braking apparatus. The braking effect is obtained by providing a rotary member on a slider to move along a long guiding member, and providing a driving device which causes a braking member, which performs a braking action by engaging with said rotary member, to engage and move away from said rotary member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1995
    Assignee: Nippon Thompson Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Seiji Takei
  • Patent number: 5417486
    Abstract: A brake wedge for rail-mounted cabinets which allows the movement of the cabinets to be automatically or manually prevented. The cabinet includes a number of wheels which are guided by floor-supported rails. The brake wedge has a curved profile and is operably connected to an actuating mechanism. The wedges are positioned adjacent each wheel of the cabinet and slightly above the rails. When the actuating mechanism is engaged by an object, one or more of the brake wedges are forced toward the wheels, causing the curved profile of the brake wedges to frictionally engage the wheels and thereby prevent further rotational movement of the wheel. A spring biases the actuating mechanism to an outward or normal position. The actuating mechanism, which defines an outer surface or portion of the base section, is preferably at or slightly above floor level and is thereby engaged and operated by virtually any object on the floor, such as a box or a person's foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1995
    Inventor: James Manlove
  • Patent number: 4934489
    Abstract: An auxiliary locking brake for tandem tires is formed by upper and lower wedge members centrally joined by a threaded shaft moving the wedge members toward and away from each other for impinging confronting thread surfaces of tandem tires when disposed therebetween. Telescoping members adjustably extending between panels forming the wedge members permit fore and aft adjustment of the spacing between the wedge forming panels prior to installation of the locking device on the tires of a particular vehicle. Tire retaining flanges on the wedge members prevent lateral movement of the device in a direction parallel with the axes of tandem axles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 19, 1990
    Inventor: Carl E. Jackson
  • Patent number: 4836337
    Abstract: A chocking device for restraining a heavy or oversized vehicle against lateral movement relative to the deck of a low bed trailer or the like. The trailer deck is carried, at least in part, by a pair of support members which extend longitudinally of the trailer and define parallel inwardly facing abutments in general vertical registry with an opening in the deck thereabove. The chocking device comprises a chocking frame for positioning on the deck in lateral bridging relation to the opening. Depending restraining members mounted in fixed position on the lower side of the chocking frame extend through the deck opening and are disposed in engagement or near engagement with the abutments on the support members. The laterally opposite end of the frame define chocking surfaces which cooperate with laterally inwardly facing surfaces on laterally opposed wheels or tracks of an associated vehicle supported on the trailer deck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1989
    Inventor: Robert E. Borrelli
  • Patent number: 4828076
    Abstract: A locking chock which is of the character of a ground brake for the fore and aft wheels of a tandem axle vehicle makes use of a separate chock or blocker for each wheel. Each chock has a flat, ground-engaging face and an oblique wheel-engaging face. There is an initially retacted threaded shaft extending between the chocks which, once the chocks are in proper position, is extended to push the chocks into blocking engagement against the corresponding opposite wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1989
    Assignee: Norco Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Fox
  • Patent number: 4739863
    Abstract: A locking assembly for vat wheels mounted in a track includes an air cylinder actuator having a reciprocating piston rod which drives a pivotable rocker assembly. The rocker assembly includes a pair of wheel braces which, in a locking position, cross the tracks contacting the inner surfaces of two adjacent vat wheels to prevent rolling or rocking of the vat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1986
    Date of Patent: April 26, 1988
    Inventor: Richard L. Stauffer
  • Patent number: 4679974
    Abstract: A railroad car having at least one deck for supporting and transporting four-wheel vehicles such as automobiles and trucks, having a pair of spaced apart first and second parallel tracks, secured to the deck longitudinally of the railroad car, having clearance for the wheels on one side of the vehicle to roll between the tracks; a pair of movable chock block apparatus for each vehicle transported on the deck to secure the vehicle against longitudinal movement; each chock block apparatus including a bar with a first end and a second end; a carriage permanently secured to the first track so it cannot be removed from the first track but so it can be moved along the longitudinal axis of the first track without rotation about a vertical axis; the bar first end being connected to the carriage so the bar first end can rotate about a substantially vertical axis at least about 90.degree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1985
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1987
    Assignee: Thrall Car Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Donald J. Blunden
  • Patent number: 4674929
    Abstract: A railroad car having at least one deck for supporting and transporting four-wheel vehicles such as automobiles and trucks; a pair of spaced apart first and second parallel tracks, secured to the deck longitudinally of the railroad car, having clearance for the two wheels on one side of the vehicle to roll between the tracks; a pair of movable chock blocks for each vehicle transported on the deck to secure the vehicle against longitudinal movement; each chock block including a bar with a first end and a second end; the bar first end being permanently secured to the first track so that it is not readily removable from the first track but so that the bar first end can be moved along the longitudinal axis of the track and the bar also can be rotated from about lateral to about parallel to the track; the bar first end having a latch for releasably securing the bar first end in a fixed position along the first track; and the bar second end having a device for releasably securing the bar second end in a fixed posit
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1985
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1987
    Assignee: Thrall Car Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Donald J. Blunden