Abstract: A device which comprises (a) at least one receiving means for receiving a free end portion of an elongate first object, the elongate first object being comprised of (i) the free end portion and (ii) an embedded end portion which is embedded in a second object, (b) at least one clamping means connected to or integral with the receiving means for applying at least one clamping force to the free end portion of the elongate first object, and (c) at least one jack which comprises a cylinder, a piston, a piston rod, and a base, the jack being connected to the receiving means so that when (i) the elongate first object is received by the receiving means, (ii) the base is in contact with the second object and (iii) a pressurized fluid is introduced into the jack to provide a separating force, the receiving means may be urged away from the second object while the clamping means applies the clamping force to the elongate first object, the amount of clamping force applied by the clamping means being proportional to the m

Abstract: A post puller and a method of use are described herein. The method of the invention entails lowering a collar over a top end of the post. The collar is carried by a suitable frame. The frame is attached to a bucket which forms a portion of a front end loader attached to a tractor. The bucket of the front end loader is tilted to engage an upper end and a lower end of the collar with the post. The bucket is then raised to pull the post from the earth. The puller is formed from a frame and a collar. The frame has an open upper end, an open lower end, a front side, and a back side. The frame has a longitudinal axis extending from the open upper end to the open lower end. The collar is mounted inside of the frame. The collar has an open upper end positioned near the open upper end of the frame, an open lower end positioned near the open lower end of the frame, a front side positioned near the front side of the frame, and a back side positioned near the back side of the frame.

Abstract: A vehicle repair rack having a platform for receiving vehicles for straightening is tilted as it is raised from the floor for easier loading of low vehicles, without the vehicle's bottoming out. The repair rack uses a parallel linkage to raise the platform. The platform is one link of the parallel linkage; and, the link that is parallel to the platform is allowed to elongate as the platform is raised, thereby causing the platform to move into non-parallelism with respect to the elongated link, so the platform is tilted. The parallel linkage includes legs as the other two links, and a connecting rod between the two legs is the elongating link. One end of the connecting rod has a slot that allows the connecting rod to move axially to a limited extent for the elongation.

Abstract: Lateral elastic deformation of Drive wheels (12) is used to grip and to push or pull elongated members by powered rotation of Drive wheels (12). This arrangement allows two wheels on a single shaft to be used in place of more cumbersome arrangements of multiple shafts and their support and drive systems as is used when the elongated members are contacted by the peripheries of the tires. The device Is also modular allowing the prime mover and initial gear reductions (Portable Power Drive (13)), the Drive wheel Assembly (20), and the attachment to the primary support to be installed as units.

Abstract: A hand operated post and pole extraction device for removing a pole or post from the ground. The device includes a frame assembly having a base section, a vertical frame member extending therefrom and a plurality of leverage arms each extending along the length of and substantially perpendicular to the vertical frame member. A handle assembly is pivotally held atop one of the plurality of leverage arms and a chain assembly is removably connected to one end of the handle assembly. When the chain assembly is wrapped around the pole or post and a force is applied to one end of the handle assembly towards the ground, the handle assembly is caused to pivot about the leverage arm applying a force to the opposite end connected to the chain assembly and the pole or post in a direction away from the ground causing the pole or post to be extracted from the ground. The frame assembly also includes an upright support member extending at an angle from the vertical frame member providing additional support thereto.

Abstract: A quick-release cam lock for selectively locking the relative position of a hydraulic cylinder and a piston. The quick-release cam lock permits speedy unlocking and repositioning of the hydraulic cylinder and its accompanying piston and oversleeve, thus allowing for speed in repositioning, assembly or disassembly while also providing a secure positive positioning lock between the hydraulic cylinder, piston and oversleeve while the quick-release cam lock is engaged.

Abstract: A framework removal tool is provided. The tool comprises a first side of a stake contact element including first and second notches with first and second dimensions, respectively. A lever arm connects to the stake contact element. One of the first or second notches is selected based on a dimension of a stake. The selected notch is placed adjacent the stake. The lever arm is rotated to remove the stake. In another embodiment, a second tool for removing stakes is provided. The tool includes a bar with a nail removal notch on a first end, and a stake contact element connected to the bar near the first end. The stake contact element includes at least a first stake notch on a first side. A rounded extension rigidly connects to the bar near the first end.

Abstract: A combination metal and wood post removing device for allowing the user to remove from the ground metal and wooden posts. The inventive device includes a base, a vertical support member attached to the base, a handle pivotally attached to the support member opposite of the base, an engaging head having a slot and a notch attached to an end of the handle, and a pair of chains attached to a distal end of the engaging head for engaging a wooden post.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for pulling fence posts having fulcrum stand (B) with an action lever (A) movably connected to one end (A1) of fulcrum stand (B) by hinge (B2). A receiving box (A2f), for encompassing the object to be moved, is connected to the action lever (A). An action handle (A3) is attached to the receiving box (A2f) and the fulcrum stand (B), and a moveable gripping pawl (A2d) is connected to the action handle (A3) for engaging the object to be pulled as the action handle (A3) is raised. The movable gripping pawl (A2d) includes two edges, an engagement edge and a non-engagement edge, and a connector (A2g) to connect the gripping pawl (A2d) to the action handle (A3) so that the object to be pulled is raised by the engagement edge as the action handle (A3) is raised.

Abstract: A post/stake removing tool with at least two base support angles from the ground for the fulcrum lever to pull on the post/stake near or at the angle the post/stake are inserted. The fulcrum is pivotably attached to the support and the jaw is pivotably attached to the lever arm. The jaw is a diamond shaped aperture for grabbing the post/stake in four places. A fulcrum/lever is also used to remove heavy or stuck manhole covers. A combination hook and jack lifting head apparatus is attached to the lever arm for manual use or for lifting with a jack.

Abstract: A pry bar device for pulling T-type fence posts out of the ground. The device consists of an upward extending rod which may be gripped by the user. A lower end of the rod extends through an opening in a channel member and forms a U-shaped loop which welds to the bottom surface of the channel member near a front end of the channel member. The channel member has a rear end which extends beyond the rod and the front end is provided with grasping means for removably engaging the posts. The grasping means consist of two arms each adjacent to a corresponding slot. The arms and slots are parallel with a longitudinal axis of the channel member, and a central tongue separates the two slots. An upward extending tab is provided terminally on each arm and said tongue terminates rearward of said front end.

Abstract: The pin pulling assembly includes an active member which is engageable to a pin, the active member comprising a handle having an increasing radius spiral configuration, the radius increasing from a center pin engaging vertex stud. Further, the assembly includes a plurality of passive stud engaging collars for use with the active member when the pin has a flat head. By rotating the active member, the increasing radius produces a simple extraction of the pin.

Abstract: A sign support stake may be combined with a jack for extraction of the stake. The sign support stake may also provide a heater to melt frozen earth. The sign support can be provided with releasable attachment means to the support to avoid removal by vandals and may be provided with level indicating means to assist achieving vertical orientation for a driven stake.

Abstract: An attachment for a conventional pry bar facilitates the bar for use in the pulling of stakes. The attachment comprises a section of pipe which is flattened to provide a tubular portion telescopically receivable over the end of a pry bar and thin edge portion to one side of the tubular portion. The edge portion is formed with a notch proportioned for slidable receipt around a stake to be pulled and gripping engagement with the stake upon cocking of the attachment relative to the stake. In use the stake is cocked for gripping and pulling engagement with the stake by fulcruming the pry bar against a surface adjacent the stake.

Abstract: A quick-release cam lock for selectively locking the relative position of a hydraulic cylinder and a piston. The quick-release cam lock permits speedy unlocking and repositioning of the hydraulic cylinder and its accompanying piston, thus allowing for speed in repositioning, assembly or disassembly while also providing a secure positive positioning lock between the hydraulic cylinder and the piston while the quick-release cam lock is engaged. A locking pin selectively locks the cam lock in an opened position.

Abstract: A post pulling device with a vertical support member attached to a base plate and engaging the support member and having an elongated telescoping handle connected to a reenforced C-shaped head portion. The head engages a post, specifically a T type post, and pressure is applied to the handle structure. The post is lifted out of the ground a corresponding distance. Upon raising the handle, the head "ratchets" down the post and the process is repeated. The device is rigidly constructed from sufficiently strong metal tubing to allow it to be subjected to the most rigorous conditions.

Abstract: A hand operated post puller including a lever arm with multiple pivot points and a fulcrum mounted on a force dispersing foot. The cinch for the post is mounted on the end of the lever arm and consists of a pair of angulated links with a pair of separated bars mounted between them. The bars grip the post on either side and pressure from the lever arm tightens the cinch as the force pulls the post out of the ground.

Abstract: The pin pulling assembly includes an active member which is engageable to a pin, the active member comprising a handle having an increasing radius spiral configuration, the radius increasing from a center pin engaging vertex stud. Further, the assembly includes a plurality of passive stud engaging collars for use with the active member when the pin has a flat head. By rotating the active member, the increasing radius produces a simple extraction of the pin.

Abstract: The present application discloses a fence post remover for use in connection with a "T"-shaped post. A bracket engages the edge of the web of the fence post. A clevice is placed over the fence post and around the "T"-shape of the fence post until it engages the front face, the seam, or the teeth of the fence post. A "U"-shaped brace is attached to a corner of the bracket to engage the web of the fence post. The clevice and the bracket are pinned together. A ring is provided to receive the pulling force such that when the ring is pulled upwardly, the portion of the clevice proximate to the face of the fence post is pulled inwardly toward the fence post while at the same time the "U"-shaped brace is also pulled toward the fence post thereby taking advantage of the pulling force to provide a better grip on the fence post.

Abstract: A generally rectangular upright sleeve is provided for downward telescoping over a metal fence post of the type that is generally T-shaped in cross section. The sleeve includes interior structure which enables the sleeve to slide downwardly along the associated fence post but releasably prevents upward movement of the sleeve along the fence post thereby enabling an upward thrust on the sleeve to be transferred to the post for pulling the post from the ground.

Abstract: An apparatus for pulling a well pipe and downhole pump from a well and is constructed of relatively lightweight materials to enable the apparatus to be easily moved to a well site by the provision of a frame structure supported by relatively large wheels and a handle structure which enables the apparatus to be pushed, pulled or lifted for movement to an accurate orientation in relation to the well site and well casing with the apparatus providing a solid connection with the well casing for safe and efficient operation. The apparatus includes opposed belt structures for engaging opposite surfaces of a well pipe with the belt being driven by a motor and two worm gear speed reducers having outputs that turn drive axles in opposite directions which are drivingly connected to the belts and fork arms associated with the axles to enable adjustment of the contact area of the belts with the well pipe or other equipment which may be encountered when pulling a pump from a well.

Abstract: A post puller for use with a tractor loader having a loader bucket pivotally mounted thereon and a grapple fork pivotally mounted on the loader bucket comprising a post receiver mounted on the bucket and a clamping arm operatively secured to the grapple fork so that the post to be pulled may be clamped between the post receiver and the post clamping arm. Upward movement of the loader bucket by the tractor loader causes the post to be pulled from the ground. The post puller is adapted to accommodate wood posts of various diameters as well as steel posts.

Abstract: A device for the extraction of fence posts having a T-shaped cross-section. The device is arranged to engage the fence post in a frictional binding action on the post when tilted by the upward application of force to one end of the device. The upward application of force is derived through cooperation with a jack, whereby the tilting of the device secures the device in position with the fence post and transfers the upward force from the jack through the device to the fence post. The tilting of the device also secures the jack to the device, thereby ensuring cooperation between the jack, the fence post, and the device throughout the full length of the lifting stroke.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for removing fence posts and related posts form the ground or other media. The invention is designed to be used primarily with tractors and any other mechanical devices fitted with a three-point hitch and capable of lifting the three-point hitch and attachments. The machine includes two gripper blades arranged in V-shaped pattern and pivotally attached to a substantially pyramidical structure. When the post is gripped by the gripper blades, lifting of the base frame causes the gripper blades to pivot downward into the post. Further use of lifting force from the tractor or other related machine lifts the post out of the ground. After the post is removed from the ground, the post can be placed on the ground by lowering the apparatus which allows the post to drop at no greater angle than the arc created by the V-shaped opening formed by the gripper blades and the housing.

Abstract: A device for removing a post from the ground. The device includes two rigid plate members for engaging opposed sides of the post. Two fasteners extend through one of the plate members for threadably engaging the other plate members so that the two plate members can tightly engage the post. When a device capable of exerting a lifting force engages at least one of the plate members, and is operated to exert such a force against the plate member, the post is removed from the ground.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a post puller for posts of a given cross section that includes concrete bases. The post puller comprises in combination: (i) a fulcrum having a horizontal base, a pair of upright arms extending from the base and a pivot pin of circular cross section attached between the arms remote from the base and perpendicular to the upright arms; (ii) a lever of circular cross section in pivoting contact with the fulcrum as a wooden post is extracted, the lever including a handle of fixed length relative to the fulcrum and a lifting segment, and a perforated plate sized to connect to the wooden post to be extracted for coupling the latter to the handle of the lever.

Abstract: A tool assembly for use in manually pulling fence posts vertically from the ground. Basically, the assembly includes a first tool having an elongated handle and a bifurcated end sized to fit around a post to be pulled. A pair of hooks extend from the bifurcated end. A second tool basically includes an elongated handle having a transverse rod at one end and a pad adjacent to the transverse rod and extending slightly further from the handle than the rod. In use, the hook end of the first tool is positioned at a substantially perpendicular angle to the post with the hooks extending around the post and pointing upwardly. The rod on the second tool is brought into engagement with the hooks with the second tool angled downwardly from the end. The interlocking ends are slid down the post as the second tool handle is rocked upwardly to a horizontal position with the pad and the base of the hooks engaging the post.

Abstract: An implement for removing a tree stump or the like defined by a first portion directly engaging the article under removal in a biting relationship and a second portion partly surrounding the article and moving into a confining relationship with the latter. The implement is mounted on a framework for pivotal movement. A manually controlled mechanism defines a removal location by pivotal action and where a locking bar serves to maintain the latter. Ample leverage is afforded for ready one-man operation.

Abstract: A body member has an upright bore for receiving a stake to be pulled. When the body member is tilted, edges of the bore grip the stake. A flexible link has one end connected to the body member and its other end arranged to receive a lever that is used to impart an upward lift on the flexible link which in turn tilts the body member for gripping the stake and applying an upward pulling force to the stake.

Abstract: A post pulling apparatus for pulling different types of posts includes an actuating device and different working heads. The actuating device is manually operable repetitively through a succession of work-producing strokes of movement. The working heads have different configurations for engaging and pulling different types of posts, such as a cross-sectional T-shaped metal post, a round wood post, and a rod-like metal electric fence post. The different working heads can be interchanged with one another in connected relation with an end of the actuating device and coupled with the respective post corresponding to the particular working head for engaging and lifting the post during each work-producing stroke of movement of the actuating device.

Abstract: A post puller apparatus that includes a single thickened plate having a hole therethrough configured to the cross sectional shape of a post that needs to be pulled up out of the ground. The plate assumes a tilted position on the post. A chain is attached to the upper end of the plate for connection with a hoisting apparatus. Operation of the hoisting apparatus causes the tilted plate to be clamped against the post for drawing the post out of the ground.

Abstract: A post extracting apparatus is disclosed in which a unitary bent plate of substantial thickness and strength having a "T" shaped aperture located in a plate portion adjacent the bend allows the plate to be slipped down over a T-shaped fence post to fit within about a foot or so of the buried base of the post. The bent plate implement is then rocked into a postgripping position and an upward force is applied to a protruding portion of the plate such as by means of a standard automobile jack. The T-shaped post is wedged by the plate device adjacent its aperture, thus making contact in as many as six (6), and at least four (4) locations on the post, depending on the size and uniformity of the fence posts, gripping the post so as to transfer the upward jacking force to the post causing its extraction.

Abstract: A portable pump removal equipment is provided which includes a collar to be secured to the upper end of a well casing, a pair of arms extending outwardly and upwardly from the collar with a wheel rotatably mounted on the outer ends of the pair of arms. A V-shaped guideway is mounted around the periphery of the wheel which releasably engages pipe pulled from the well casing. A latching mechanism on the wheel permits rotation of the wheel in a direction to withdraw the pipe and the pump from the well casing. Rollers mounted on horizontally extending axes on the upper surface of the collar permit the pipe to be withdrawn from the casing without engaging the casing wall.

Abstract: A pulling device for use in withdrawing well points and the like comprises a boom, a column fixedly mounted at an outer end of the boom, apparatus for adjustable positioning of the column over a well point to be withdrawn from the ground and disposing it vertically for pulling without jamming. A gripping carriage is vertically moveable on the column. The carriage carries a first, fixed jaw in alignment with the center plane of the column comprising first and second vertically spaced apart first jaw elements and a second jaw comprising first and second vertically spaced apart second jaw elements. The second jaws are moveable relative to the first jaws so as to grasp the top of the well point to be pulled between them. Hydraulic cylinders power the jaws and raise the carriage so as to pull the gripped point.

Abstract: A tree and tree stump removal apparatus consisting of a frame, pivotally mounted hydraulic cylinder mounted thereon, and a chain for placing around a tree or tree stump is provided. The hydraulic cylinder is pivotally mounted on the frame to provide the optimum vertical pulling force in order to quickly and effectively remove trees and tree stumps and their associated roots from the ground. An associated method for removing trees and tree stumps is also provided.

Abstract: This invention relates to a polished rod liner puller assembly and method of use having a plurality of interconnectable elements being (1) a spacer stand assembly; (2) a work table assembly mountable upon the spacer stand assembly; (3) a base plate assembly mountable upon a top surface of the work table assembly; (4) piston and cylinder jack assemblies pivotally connected to an upper surface of the base plate assembly; and (5) a winged rod clamp assembly connected to an outer end of the piston and cylinder jack assemblies and connectable to a polished rod liner assembly for axial movement thereof and subsequent replacement of a polished rod liner member. The work table assembly and base plate assembly are provided with U-shaped slot sections so as to be readily mountable about the existing pipe members in a well casing head assembly.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for extracting the fence post and the like from the earth. The invention is preferably used in conjunction with a tractor, backhoe or other piece of mobile equipment having hydraulical controls for supplementally attached equipment. The hydraulic controls of the tractor are connected to a hydraulic cylinder on the apparatus capable of creating approximately one foot of horizontal travel within the apparatus. Through the use of a fixed length of cable and a series of sheaves, this approximate one foot of horizontal travel is translated into approximately five feet of vertical travel. There are self-clamping jaws which automatically engage a fence post or the like when the hydraulic cylinder is used to actuate the lifting mechanism. In operation, the tractor is merely backed up to a fence post and the hydraulic controls operated to actuate the hydraulic cylinder thereby engaging the fence post and extracting it all in one motion.

Abstract: This invention is a method and an apparatus for performing the method, for the removal of stakes, such as concrete foundation stakes, and other stakes or posts driven into the ground. The method is characterized by gripping with a pair of hardened arms at a position on each stake, or the like, to be removed with a leverage being applied from a position above the gripping point on such stakes to a resting upon position upon foundation framing, or other suitable support. The method incorporates repeated pulling from different positions in a manner as set forth until the item being removed from the ground is fully removed.

Abstract: A stake pulling apparatus which is characterized by an upright box-frame adapted to contain a quantity of hydraulic fluid, a bifurcated base plate attached to the bottom of the frame for supporting the frame, a hydraulic cylinder pivotally suspended from the frame over the slot provided in the base, a hydraulic pump provided in fluid communication with the box-frame hydraulic fluid reservoir, a gasoline engine for powering the apparatus and a hydraulic control system for controlling the introduction of hydraulic fluid into the hydraulic cylinder to remove a stake embedded in the ground and located in the slot beneath the hydraulic cylinder. In a preferred embodiment, a chain is wrapped around the stake and attached to the cylinder piston, in order to secure the piston to the stake and effect extraction of the stake from the ground.

Abstract: Device (10) for extacting and pulling posts, poles and the like having a tool body portion (12) including a back wall (16), side walls (22,24) and lower end surfaces (20,30,32). A hollow handle (14) extends upwardly from the tool body (12) and includes a slug metal member (50) at the lower end of the handle. Teeth (38,40) are secured to the lower edge surface of the back wall. A slide hammer bar (60) is adapted to be inserted in the hollow handle (14) to pound the tool body down and to pound the teeth into engagement with the post. The bar also acts as a lever extension of the handle for prying the post up once the device has been position and engaged with the post.

Abstract: A device for pulling fence posts from the ground, and for digging holes for the emplacement of fence posts. One embodiment comprises a substantially T-shaped member pivotally mounted on a shaft. A second embodiment comprises a rigid triangular member pivotally mounted on a shaft. Each embodiment further comprises a pair of wheels mounted on the shaft, which thereby serves as an axle for the wheels. Two very important advantages of the first and second embodiments are (1) a continuously variable mechanical advantage and (2) automatic adjustment of the distance of the device from the fence post being pulled up for maximum efficiency. A third embodiment of the invention comprises a digging machine connected to one of the first two embodiments. Either of the first two embodiments are also useful for transporting fence posts or other materials needed in laying fences, or for stringing wire between fence posts.

Abstract: A fence post puller comprising a vertically disposed support post having a base plate mounted on the lower end thereof by means of a swivel or knuckle joint connection. An elongated handle is pivotally connected to the upper end of the support post and has a yoke pivotally secured to one end thereof which is adapted to embrace and engage the post during upward movement of the yoke.

Abstract: A post puller having substantially universal application for pulling posts of various cross-sectional configurations and characterized by a pair of transversely spaced jaws carried by the pulling clevis opposite the clevis pin, the clevis being pivotally connected adjacent one end of a lever handle which is pivotally supported by a stand, the space between the jaws accommodating the leg of T-shaped posts, and the jaws engaging the base of the U-shaped posts, during the pulling operation.

Abstract: A machine for extracting an elongate work piece from a medium in which it is imbedded. The machine includes a vertical gripping plate in opposed gripping relating with an eccentrically pivoted gripper. These gripping elements are carried on a rigid frame adapted for attachment to the three point hitch lifting mechanism found on tractors. When the work piece is gripped between the gripping elements, lifting of the frame by means of the lifting mechanism of the tractor, will extract the work piece. Auxiliary lifting force may be provided with optional fluid power operated cylinders. Linkages may optionally be provided to remotely move the pivoted gripper into and out of gripping relation. The linkages may be operated manually or with a hydraulic or other power operated cylinder.

Abstract: An apparatus for removing tubes from a tube sheet, wherein the tube to be removed is engaged from the side of the tube with the force for withdrawing the tube being applied against the outer peripheral surface of the tube by a tube-pulling device which, when in operative engagement with the tube to be removed, is positioned parallel to the tube and engages the outer peripheral surface thereof. A selectively actuable reciprocating hydraulic cylinder provides gripping engagement with the tube to incrementally retract the tube relative to the extracting apparatus, while continuously maintaining a positive engagement with the tube throughout the removal operation.

Abstract: First and second body portions have inwardly facing surfaces provided with recesses and lugs capable of providing a longitudinal driving connection between the two body portions. One of the body portions has recesses for receiving wire attaching studs of a metal fence post. These body portions have a tapered configuration for receiving a wedge clamping ring, and by applying a driving member against one end of the abutment member when installed on the fence post, the latter can be driven for installation or removal from the ground.

Abstract: A drilling rig with conventional capacity for working a drilling string is linked to a casing string with a block and tackle which provides sufficient mechanical advantage for the drilling rig to suspend the casing string in the oil well.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed which is mountable upon a tractor for removing stakes from the ground and for collecting the stakes. The apparatus includes a support framework and a stake loosening means disposed on the framework. The stake loosening means includes a plurality of stake loosening fingers for loosening the stakes relative to the ground. The loosened stakes are removed from the ground by counterrotating rollers which define a stake receiving passage therebetween. The stakes are guided from the counterrotating rollers by means of a stake guiding chute having an input and an output end with the output end being disposed adjacent a stake collecting means.

Abstract: A device for use in pulling metal fence posts includes a pair of plates for coupling to the posts. The plates are spaced-apart and connected at the rear by a cross-member. The forward edges of the plate are open for placement around the posts. Each plate has a slot that receives a pin. The pin is adapted to bear against lugs spaced along the length of the post. A loop extends upwardly from the plate for receiving a jack or hydraulic lifting arm to apply an upward force. The loop is a flexible chain. A guide closely receives the shank of the post to prevent cocking of the device.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and an assembly for a equipping vessel propelled by nuclear power. In accordance with the invention, a vessel is made in two prefabricated parts (2,3) and a chamber (5) is provided in the part (2). A nuclear reactor block (6) is placed in said chamber before assembling the two parts. The invention applies to building diverse nuclear powered vessels such as ice-breakers for example.