Abstract: An improved landing gear assembly made up of a pair of supports having extensible legs, each support having a generally rectangular air lift bladder encased in a box enclosure, which forces a leg downwardly when the bag is inflated, there being an internal compression spring urging the leg upwardly against the air bladder, the leg and spring being located within a generally tubular housing. Each support includes a safety latch and lock mechanism for fixing the leg with respect to the leg housing. The safety latch and lock includes an array of notches formed on the lower end of the extensible leg, a pivoting latch for engaging a selected notch, a torsion spring urging the latch into engagement with a notch, a rotatable rod linked to the pivoting latch of each support, and a handle for rotating the rod.

Abstract: A pneumatic jack system for a motor vehicle comprising a pneumatic jack with a bracket for mounting the pneumatic jack to a suspension assembly of the motor vehicle between two wheels. A structure is for extending the pneumatic jack to the ground to raise the motor vehicle. An element is for retracting the pneumatic jack from the ground to lower the motor vehicle. A control switch is in the interior of the motor vehicle, for operating the extending structure and the retracting element. A component is for locking the control switch to prevent an unauthorized operation of the pneumatic jack.

Abstract: A supporting device for a rescue vehicle comprises two legs each of which has a footing plate (16) located near a lateral vehicle edge of the vehicle. The legs are capable of being swivelled from a transportation position to a supporting position. In order to create a light-weight supporting device which is nevertheless very effective in both the vertical and horizontal directions of towing, and easily retractable and accessible, the footing plates (16) are connected to the legs (13) so as to be capable of swivelling around a horizontal axis (30) and a vertical axis (31). Both footing plates (16) can be connected to each other to form a supporting shield.

Abstract: A trailer with wheels located near its rearward end and a connecting arm extending from a mid-region of the forward end of the trailer. The connecting arm includes a gooseneck with a ball receptacle to connect with a ball protruding upwardly from the truck bed. A shroud is connected to the forward end of the trailer beneath the connecting arm and a powered hydraulic cylinder is carried inside the shroud and includes a rod extending downwardly to raise and lower the front of the trailer. A stabilizer arm terminating in a foot portion is carried by the shroud to extend downwardly and co-extensively with the rod to protect the hydraulic cylinder and rod from loading other than by the weight of the trailer and its load.

Abstract: A hydraulically extendable and retractable truck support or stabilizer jack is pivoted upwards about a vehicle-mounted trunnion or axis. A free end of the jack is hinged to a telescopic rod which can be retracted to a limited extent and which is mounted to pivot on a pivot element or swivel member which in turn pivots about a vehicle-mounted trunnion or axis in the direction of the jack until it reaches a vehicle-mounted stop.

Abstract: A vehicle jack system attachable to a vehicle for lifting portions of the vehicle. The system includes at least one hydraulically operated jack pivotally mounted to the associated vehicle. A hydraulic positioning assembly extends between the jack and the vehicle to effect a pivoting of the jack into either a horizontal position for storage, or a vertical position for operation thereof. A solenoid arrangement facilitates a controlled distribution of hydraulic fluid from a pressure source to a plurality of such jacks mounted around the vehicle. An alternate embodiment of the present includes a ground engaging ski for permitting translation of the vehicle over a icy surface, and a locking assembly for securing both a longitudinal and angular position of each jack.

Abstract: A telescoping assembly includes an inner tubular member and an outer tubular member, each defining an internal passage. The inner and outer tubular members are mounted to each other for telescoping movement therebetween, and a pair of coaxial springs are mounted within the internal passages defined by the inner and outer tubular members. The springs act to bias the tubular members toward a retracted position. The tubular members are movable to an extended position against the force of the springs, by introduction of pressurized fluid into the internal passages defined by the inner and outer tubular members. A valve is mounted to an end of one of the tubular members, for introducing pressurized fluid into the internal passages defined by the tubular members, and for allowing fluid to be expelled therefrom under the force of the springs, for allowing the inner and outer tubular members to move to their retracted position.

Abstract: A camera pedestal has a cylinder with a tapering cross-section for providing a uniform counterbalancing force using a compressed gas. Telescoping column sections which make up a column assembly have inner relief channels and outer slots for hardened roller strips. A column drive system has a motor driving a gear engaged to a rack on the column, to automatically or remotely raise or lower the column. A column braking system locks the column assembly into any selected position and prevents extension or retraction of the column assembly if the load on the column is not counterbalanced by the compressed gas. The column assembly is eccentrically positioned on its base tank. The pedestal is engageable to a receptacle on a camera dolly with a telescoping steering drive tube interconnecting a steering assembly on the pedestal with a steering system in the dolly.

Abstract: A hydraulically, pneumatically, electrically, or engine operated motorcycle center stand assembly having a ground-contacting lower stand unit rotatable about an axis on an upper stand unit. Parking is accomplished by rotation of said lower stand into said ground-contacting position, followed by downward pivoting of said upper stand unit, thereby raising said rear end of said motorcycle. The stand is raised by reversing the sequence. Ground contacting area, stand width, and stability are increased while simultaneously retaining maximum road clearance.

Abstract: An air jack assembly is provided for a motor vehicle which consists of a cylinder mounted vertically to the underside of a chassis of the motor vehicle approximate a ground engaging wheel of the motor vehicle, with the cylinder having a reciprocal piston rod extendable and retractable longitudinally therefrom. A horizontally disposed ground engagable base plate is secured to a distal end of the piston rod. A mechanism is carried by the motor vehicle, for moving the piston rod longitudinally from the cylinder, to lower the base plate to the ground and raise the chassis of the motor vehicle, so that the wheel will lift off the ground. Another mechanism is carried by the motor vehicle, for moving the piston rod longitudinally into the cylinder, to raise the base plate off the ground and lower the chassis of the motor vehicle, so that the wheel will engage the ground again.

Abstract: A telescoping assembly includes an inner tubular member and an outer tubular member, each defining an internal passage. The inner and outer tubular members are mounted to each other for telescoping movement therebetween, and a pair of coaxial springs are mounted within the internal passages defined by the inner and outer tubular members. The springs act to bias the tubular members toward a retracted position. The tubular members are movable to an extended position against the force of the springs, by introduction of pressurized fluid into the internal passages defined by the inner and outer tubular members. A valve is mounted to an end of one of the tubular members, for introducing pressurized fluid into the internal passages defined by the tubular members, and for allowing fluid to be expelled therefrom under the force of the springs, for allowing the inner and outer tubular members to move to their retracted position.

Abstract: A series of hydraulic jack units are mounted on the frame of a vehicle. Each jack unit is controlled from a central controller inside the vehicle and includes electrical means for activating the jack, automatic means for locking the jack in the extended position, and selectively activatable means for releasing the jack and returning it to its retracted position. As a result of this arrangement, any portion of the vehicle may be raised to facilitate maintenance, or to provide security against theft.

Abstract: An improved vehicular mounted jacking system controllably raises or lowers a portion of a vehicle relative to the terrain on which the vehicle is supported. Multi-chambered telescoping hydraulic jacks are mounted on the frame of the vehicle close to each of the several replaceable wheels. Each hydraulic jack is vertically oriented relative to the supporting terrain to lift a portion of the vehicle relative to the supporting terrain allowing removal of the desired wheel. Hydraulic power from the vehicle is coupled in communication with each of the multi-chambered telescoping hydraulic jacks to provide hydraulic fluid under pressure for actuating and extending the hydraulic jacks. A valved manifold is also disposed in fluid communication between the jacks and the hydraulic power source. The valves of the manifold are controlled to selectively extend or retract one or more of the hydraulic jacks.

Abstract: Improvements in the static trailer support system for a trailer normally pulled by a truck or cab/trailer assembly; retractable support legs for the front end of a trailer section of a truck/trailer or cab/trailer assembly enabling the ready separation of the truck or cab from the trailer assembly and, thereafter, the indefinite support of the trailer assembly in the stopped position; hydraulic cylinders and inter connections thereof that operate to provide an entirely new, horizontally retractable support system for the front end of the trailer, as well as an entirely downwardly extendable support system when the trailer and its drag are in stopped position; a construction and process or procedure for using same which either extends an entirely retractable pair of hydraulic cylinder support legs to carry the weight of the front end of the trailer when the latter is in stopped position or, once the front end of the trailer is coupled with a drag truck or drag cab, substantially entirely retracts the entire su

Abstract: A motion control system for hydraulically operated lifting devices. The system provides for the dynamic weighing of a loaded container by controllably directing hydraulic flow through a bypass chamber of a two-way valve. An analog output signal is generated by a hydraulic pressure transducer fluidly communicating with the two-way valve or by a tensiometer mounted on the arms of the lifting device. The two-way valve further provides a second bypass chamber which receives fluid under gravity from the lift circuit line of the hydraulic cylinder for controllably lowering the lifting device. The pressure transducer or tensiometer generate an analog signal proportionate to the weight being lowered and whereby the hydraulic fluid is returned to the reservoir of the hydraulic system independently and downstream of the main operating valve.

Abstract: A hydraulically, pneumatically, electrically, or engine operated motorcycle center stand assembly having a ground-contacting lower stand unit rotatable about an axis on an upper stand unit. Parking is accomplished by rotation of said lower stand into said ground-contacting position, followed by downward pivoting of said upper stand unit, thereby raising said rear end of said motorcycle. The stand is raised by reversing the sequence. Ground contacting area, stand width, and stability are increased while simultaneously retaining maximum road clearance.

Abstract: A hydraulic shock absorber controller for a wheel crane having a suspension provided with hydraulic shock absorbers. The hydraulic shock absorber controller connects a line connected to the active chambers of the hydraulic shock absorbers and a line connected to the inert chambers of the same before the wheel crane starts running to enable the working fluid to flow rapidly from the compressed chamber to the expanding chamber of each hydraulic shock absorber so that the hydraulic shock absorbers are able to function properly for shock absorbing operation while the wheel crane is running.

Abstract: A lifting and lowering system for a trailer includes one or more extendible and retractable legs, with the legs being provided with springs or the like urging the legs toward their retracted position. The system is a pressurized air/hydraulic system, and includes an air-operated booster valve for extending the legs when loaded. A master valve assembly is provided for controlling supply of air to the system and for allowing retraction of the legs. The master valve and air valve include a common actuator shaft so that the system is selectively connected to pressurized air or vented, as appropriate, when leg extension or retraction occurs. The master valve includes a cam actuator/cam follower piston operated system for selectively providing fluid pressure to a lock valve associated with each leg. The lock valve is biased toward a normally closed position, and is selectively movable to an open position for allowing extension or retraction of the legs.

Abstract: A self-deploying stabilizing support jack is presented which stabilizes and positions a recreational vehicle or trailer. The support jack comprises a bracket, a two-way cylinder, lift arms, a stabilizing sleeve and several electrical warning devices and safety features. The lift arms and cylinder are attached to the bracket at separate, offset first and second points so that when the ram of the cylinder contacts the foot of the lift arm, the entire apparatus is raised to a horizontal position. A stabilizing sleeve attached to the lift and surrounding the cylinder stabilizes the device from lateral movement. An intermediate third pivot point in the lift arm helps reduce stress upon raising. Several signalling devices warn the operator when the support jack is in the deployed position. A safety circuit automatically raises any support jack that is not in the horizontal safety position should the ignition be turned to the "on" position.

Abstract: A stabilizer system for a utility vehicle that includes a stabilizer unit having a hydraulically-actuated piston cylinder, a leg connected to an end of the piston and carried within a protective sleeve, a ground engaging pad, and a hydraulic actuating and control means by which the leg and pad may be extended and retracted within the dimensional profile of the vehicle. In the retracted position, the leg and pad are carried above the undercarriage clearance space of the vehicle. Advantageously, a utility vehicle equipped with the system may be moved into and operated stably in terrain providing limited sidewall and undercarriage clearance space and having highly hetereogeneous and non-supportive soil conditions.

Abstract: An automobile pneumatic jack system that can be easily attached to all currently manufactured automobile chassis and frames. There is a front suspension pneumatic jack that is mounted centrally to the front suspension of an automobile between its front wheels. There is also a rear suspension pneumatic jack that is mounted centrally to the rear suspension of the automobile between its rear wheels. The system operates from a compressed air reservoir tank that has connections for the front and rear car jack outlets. Additional outlets can be added to the compressed air reservoir tank for connecting a pneumatic lug wrench and another for a tire inflating hose. A further option to the system could include a connection to the master brake cylinder such that when the car is locked, the compressed air is applied to the braking system to lock the brakes hard on for an anti-theft feature.

Abstract: A portable screen with a raising and levelling system for raising a frame of the system containing a vibrating screen away from ground on which the system is positioned and for levelling the frame and vibrating screen for improved operation. A wheel assembly rigidly fixed relative to the frame extends from the frame at a first end wall where a first raising and levelling assembly is provided. At an opposite end wall of the frame, a second raising and levelling system is provided. First and second shedding roofs are respectively positioned over the wheel assembly and first and second hydraulic raising and levelling assemblies. With the portable screen having a raising and levelling system as disclosed, the system may be operated on sloping ground and/or ground having undulations and other protrubances.

Abstract: A self-deploying stabilizing support jack is presented which stabilizes and positions a recreational vehicle or trailer. The support jack comprises a bracket, a two-cylinder, lift arms and a stabilizing sleeve. The lift arms and cylinder are attached to the bracket at separate, offset first and second points so that when the ram of the cylinder contacts the foot of the lift arm, the entire apparatus is raised to a horizontal position. A stabilizing sleeve attached to the lift and surrounding the cylinder stabilizes the the device from lateral movement. An intermediate third pivot point in the lift arm helps reduce stress upon raising. Also provided is an automatically released pressure valve for the cylinder and a signalling device to warn the operator when the support jack is in the deployed position. A safety circuit also automatically raises any support jack that is not in the horizontal safety position should the ignition be turned to the "ON" position.

Abstract: Apparatus for leveling a vehicle or the like comprising a power cylinder for selectively actuating the apparatus between a horizontal storage position and a vertical support position; mounting apparatus for fixedly mounting the power cylinder means on and beneath the vehicle; a piston operably associated with the power cylinder for upward and downward power driven movement relative thereto; and support apparatus pivotally connected to the piston for movement between a horizontal storage position and a vertical support position. The support apparatus includes a lowermost plate shoe for engaging the ground and a rigid leg extending upwardly from the shoe for connection to the piston rod. A pivot connection between the leg and the piston rod enables relative pivotal movement therebetween.

Abstract: A portable walking beam pump jack for use in pumping liquids from an oil well having an elongated frame and an axle with wheels thereon mounted transversely on the frame for providing rolling transportation. Stabilizer pads are provided for securing the frame with respect to a ground location, after transportation. An engine is mounted on the frame and rotates a counterweighted pair of arms which are journalled for rotation adjacent to the frame and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the frame. A drive yoke is connected between the counterweighted arms and a walking beam such that rotation of the arms drives the walking beam in a rocking motion. A foldable support assembly is mounted upon the frame and supports the walking beam. The walking beam can be connected to a sucker rod for pumping from a well.

Abstract: A vehicle leveling and stabilizing apparatus particularly adapted for use with a motor home to level and stabilize the vehicle upon irregular terrain preparatory to camping or such activity. The apparatus includes a plurality of jack stand assemblies, one associated with each vehicle quadrant. The jack stand assemblies are operated by double-acting hydraulic power units operable from the cab of the vehicle. Level sensors are connected to the motor vehicle to indicate level or off-level condition from front to rear and from side to side. A control panel within the vehicle carries the power unit controls and level indicators lamps.

Abstract: In combination for use in a vehicle having a front, a back and sides to level the vehicle relative to gravity. A plurality of devices each disposed at an individual position relative to the vehicle and in displaced relationship to the other devices for adjusting the vertical position of the vehicle relative to gravity in accordance with the operation of pairs of adjacent devices. A sensor disposed relative to the vehicle for sensing the tilting of the vehicle from a level disposition relative to gravity. An operating structure responsive to the sensor for operating pairs of adjacent devices in a particular order to obtain an adjustment in the vertical position of the vehicle from side to side and front to back to obtain a resultant leveling of the vehicle relative to gravity.

Abstract: A system for automatically levelling a vehicle, such as a recreational vehicle, relative to gravity includes a plurality of extensible jacks, preferably hydraulic, disposed at strategic positions on the vehicle underside. Switches sense the downward tilting of the vehicle relative to gravity at the strategic positions and produce signals to operate the jacks in accordance with such tilting. Before the jacks are extended, air bags in the vehicle are deflated. When the hydraulic pressure in a hydraulic circuit exceeds a first value, the jacks are extended in a particular sequence depending upon the particular directions in which the vehicle is tilted relative to gravity. A delay is preferably provided between the operations of each jack and the next jack in the sequence to eliminate transients in the next jack operation. When the vehicle has been levelled, jacks not previously extended are extended until they engage the ground with a second pressure less than the first pressure.

Abstract: Hydraulic leveling device and system for leveling trailers, mobile homes, platforms and other equipment. The device and system of the invention comprise a hydraulic cylinder, a support leg connected to the hydraulic cylinder, and a wheel for pivoting the support leg upwards into a storage position.

Abstract: A jack stand or support for a trailer jack having a vertically extending housing and an extensible plunger telescopically contained by the depending end of the jack housing includes an upright member mounted on a flat base. A sleeve-like socket, in which the upper end of the upright member is telescopically received, is secured to the depending end of the jack plunger. The socket member is pivotally mounted in elongated slots formed in parallel strap members secured to the upright member for a lateral pivoting movement of the jack stand to a stored travel position by rollers on the strap members contacting forwardly and rearwardly extending arcuate tracks, mounted on the jack housing, during retracting movement of the plunger into the housing.

Abstract: A system for automatically levelling a vehicle, such as a recreational vehicle, relative to gravity includes a plurality of extensible jacks, preferably hydraulic, disposed at strategic positions on the bottom of the vehicle. A plurality of switches sense the downward tilting of the vehicle relative to gravity at the strategic positions and produce signals to operate the jacks in accordance with such tilting. The jacks are extended in a particular sequence depending upon the particular directions in which the vehicle is tilted relative to gravity. The jacks become extended only when the hydraulic pressure in a hydraulic circuit exceeds a particular value. Since the rear of the vehicle weighs considerably more than the front, the switches are constructed and are connected in a circuit to resolve any ambiguities in favor of initially operating the jacks at the rear of the vehicle.

Abstract: A vehicle mounted parking device for use on a front wheel drive vehicle of the type having motive means and at least two front and two rear wheels. An auxiliary wheel is mounted substantially between and equidistant from the rear wheels and is mounted so as to permit movement relative to the vehicle frame between an out-of-the-way position and a lower operative ground engaging and rear end of the vehicle lifting position such that the rear wheels are raised off the ground. Power means is provided so that the auxiliary wheel may be forced under the rear of the car to raise the rear wheels and to place the rear end weight of the vehicle on the auxiliary wheel. The auxiliary wheel, when in operative position, allows lateral movement of the rear end of the vehicle with a minimum of longitudinal vehicle movement. The auxiliary wheel may be mounted so that its axis of rotation forms an angle between approximately 20.degree. and 60.degree.

Abstract: A dual lift for large loads such as vehicles has two lifting units set in opposition to each other to straddle the load. Each of the lifting unit has a vertical standard, cantilevered arms mounted on the standard for movement therealong, and a hydraulic actuator for raising and lowering said arm. A source of fluid under pressure such as a motor, pump, and reservoir provides fluid under pressure, transferred first to one of the actuators, and from this first actuator between it and the other in a reversible series. The first actuator functions as a master and the other actuator as a slave thereto so that actuation of the slave is synchronized directly with the operation of said master.

Abstract: A jacking device for an articulated vehicle includes a support member secured to the vehicle and a jacking member slidable relative to the support member to lift the vehicle. A motor is detachably secured to the support member through a reaction member to cause relative movement between the jacking member and the support member. The motor and reaction member may be removed when not in use to allow storage at a remote location.

Abstract: A standard model truck or trailer, having a rear load bearing axle with dual pneumatic tires mounted on wheels at both ends of the axle, is provided a further set of like rear wheels with dual pneumatic tires which are connected to the vehicle's main frame by depending carriers pivoted thereto. These rear wheels are rearwardly biased by a compression spring and may be selectively moved forwardly or rearwardly in an arc about their pivotable connection by a hydraulic piston and cylinder arrangement. An endless tread-type track is adapted to be mounted around the succeeding pairs of dual tires on either side. Each track has two or more parts dovetailed together at the ends, held by a spring steel rod inserted in openings therethrough, each opening being defined by a polygonal tube which receives the rod so it cannot rotate. The rod is held in the tube by a detent member.

Abstract: An improved outrigger support arrangement for a crane or like piece of equipment is disclosed for stabilization of the crane during work operations. The support arrangement includes an outrigger having a horizontally disposed beam portion and an extensible leg portion fixed thereto extending downwardly and angularly outwardly thereof. Upper and lower beam supports are provided on the wheeled frame of the crane for reactively engaging the outrigger when it is in an extended position. A fluid extensible cylinder and piston is provided for moving the outrigger from the extended position to a stowed position wherein it is substantially completely nested within a cavity defined by the frame of the crane.

Abstract: Inspection and repair of an air cushion vehicle flexible skirt is carried out with the vehicle supported above a ground surface on support legs projecting from sleeve members built into rigid base structure of the vehicle so as to be open between upper and lower surfaces of the base structure. The vehicle lift system is used to hover the vehicle clear of the ground so that the support legs can be secured in their projecting positions. Alternatively, jacks may be supported over the sleeves and used to force the support legs down the sleeve members to their projecting positions. The vehicle may be further raised above the ground surface to permit inspection and repair of the underside of the rigid base structure by first replacing each support leg with a support stand and pillar assembly and then using the jacks to raise the vehicle with the support legs resting on the pillars.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an articulated vehicle comprising a first frame assembly including a first pair of road wheels; an upwardly protruding vertical pivot fixed to the first frame assembly; a second frame assembly including a substantially horizontal beam having a first and a second ends, with the first end being formed with bearings mounted on the pivot and with the beam extending horizontally above the first frame assembly, a support fixed to the second end of the beam, the support including a second pair of road wheels; apparatus to rotate the second frame assembly about the pivot relative to the first frame assembly; a boom pivoted to the second frame assembly about a horizontal axis; apparatus to raise and lower the boom relative to the second frame assembly; ground engaging elements to support said vehicle; connectors to connect ground engaging elements with the first frame assembly while permitting vertical displacement of the ground engaging elements relative to said first frame assembly;

Abstract: A crane having outriggers that can be extended transversely of the main frame of the crane, and a vertically positionable jack is located at the outer ends of the outriggers and include a vertical, threaded shaft having a ground engaging pad at its lower end and which is non-rotatably carried by the outer end of the beam. A power drive is located within the beam for rotating a large nut that is engaged by the shaft and which is carried by the interior portion of the beam. This power drive includes a hydraulic motor which drives a speed reducer which in turn furnishes power to the sprocket and endless chain connection between the speed reducer and threadably driven nut.

Abstract: Aircraft lowering and raising apparatus for loading and unloading purposes wherein the apparatus comprises four supporting structures, two located at a spaced distance at the left and two similarly at the right side of the fuselage. Each structure is horizontally carried within the aircraft and can be extended in a vertical position outside of the aircraft. Each structure includes a hydraulic telescoping piston cylinder arrangement with a ground feeler for extending a tripod carriage which is pivotally connected to the cylinder. Upon operation, the structure moves from its aircraft storage unit outside in vertical position and engages the ground by extension of its telescoping member to support the aircraft, thereupon the landing gears are contracted into the aircraft body, and thereafter the telescoping piston cylinder is contracted so that the aircraft is lowered for cargo handling.