Screw Actuated Patents (Class 254/424)
  • Patent number: 11577565
    Abstract: A trailer tongue jack relocation bracket has a frame bracket firmly attached to a central bracket and a frame plate, wherein the central bracket has spaced-apart top and bottom plate members that can be used to mount a trailer tongue jack to the relocation bracket. The frame bracket can be placed on opposite sides of a trailer frame member to sandwich the frame member therebetween, and then bolted together to clamp the relocation bracket to the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2023
    Assignee: Camco Manufacturing, LLC
    Inventors: Bruce Andrew Angel, Steven L. Spencer
  • Patent number: 10895343
    Abstract: The jack stand assembly includes a coupling plate with a plurality of openings for receiving the lugs of a wheel hub to fixedly attach the coupling plate with the wheel hub. The coupling plate is operably supported by a support structure which has an adjustable height. The support structure is configured to rotate about a vertical axis to allow the wheel hub to be rotated in a steering motion when the wheel hub is fixedly attached with the coupling plate. A bearing assembly is interposed between the coupling plate and the support structure to allow the wheel hub to rotate about a horizontal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2021
    Assignee: Federal-Mogul Motorparts LLC
    Inventors: Steven D. Schmitt, Russell Andert
  • Patent number: 9580962
    Abstract: A quint configuration fire apparatus includes a chassis, a body assembly coupled to the chassis and configured to receive a ground ladder, a fire hose, a pump, and a water tank, a ladder assembly including a plurality of extensible ladder sections, the ladder assembly having a proximal end that is coupled to the chassis, a single front axle coupled to a front end of the chassis, a single rear axle coupled to a rear end of the chassis, a single set of outriggers coupled to the chassis and positioned forward of the single rear axle, and a stability foot coupled to the chassis and positioned rearward of the single rear axle. The ladder assembly is extensible to provide a horizontal reach of at least 100 feet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2017
    Assignee: Oshkosh Corporation
    Inventors: Eric Betz, David W. Archer
  • Patent number: 9568938
    Abstract: A quick release assembly has a linear U-shaped member with a base and slotted opposed sides. A nonlinear lever member positioned within the U-shaped member has an aperture aligned with the slots. A fastener through the lever aperture and both slots of the U-shaped member retains the lever member therein. The U-shaped member is fastened to the outer section of a telescoping device parallel with the linear axis thereof. A connector device of the lever member is fastened to a locking mechanism maintaining a movable inner section of the linear telescoping device. Applying force to the lever member opposite the attachment member pivots the lever member and releases the locking mechanism, thereby allowing the inner section of the telescoping device to extend from the outer section, with the lever member attached to the inner section moving along but maintained within the U-shaped member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2017
    Inventors: Chad M. Ericson, Andrew J. Heintz
  • Patent number: 9446743
    Abstract: A trailer jack support comprises a receptacle for receiving a jack post of a trailer jack and a mechanism such as an insert therein for limiting the depth of insertion of the jack post into the receptacle. As a result, the jack post engages the insert with a more limited extension of the jack post. Also, if there is a significant distance between the ground and jack, for example if the trailer happens to be positioned above a depression in the ground, the jack post may not be able to be extended sufficiently to support the jack. By adjusting the elevation of an insert, a trailer jack support in accordance with this disclosure can reduce the extent to which a jack post needs to be extended to accommodate these varying ground conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2016
    Inventor: Kent R. Madison
  • Patent number: 8967667
    Abstract: The invention relates to a supporting device for a semi-trailer or the like, comprising an outer supporting tube and an inner supporting tube, wherein the inner supporting tube is telescopically arranged in the outer supporting tube and may be moved in the axial direction relative to the outer supporting tube by a spindle mechanism mounted inside the outer supporting tube. The supporting device may further comprise an actuating device for actuating the spindle mechanism, which is configured as a separate structural unit and arranged outside of the outer supporting tube. The invention further relates to a semi-trailer having at least one such supporting device as well as an actuating device and a transmission device for use in such a supporting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Saf-Holland GmbH
    Inventor: Elmar Weber
  • Patent number: 8910924
    Abstract: A jack for use with a towed vehicle is disclosed. The jack may include a first housing, a pair of cam surfaces, and a second housing telescopically moveable relative to the first housing. The jack may also include a pair of engaging members positionable to a first position generally inhibiting relative telescopic movement between the first and second housings and a second position generally not inhibiting relative telescopic movement between the first and second housings, and a handle attached to the engaging members, where the handle is selectively positionable along the cam surfaces positioning the engaging members to the first and second positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: Cequent Performance Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Erik Alanko
  • Publication number: 20140283310
    Abstract: Apparatus for installing and removing road wheels from a motor vehicle, which may include a powered jack permanently mountable to the vehicle and a powered tool for tightening and loosening lug nuts and screws. The jack is an assembly incorporating two screw operated jacks, each for lifting one corner of the vehicle. The jack may include a manual controller having a power cord which is inserted into the cigarette lighter socket of the vehicle and which selectively operates any of up to four screw operated jacks. The powered tool may include plural sockets for engaging all lug nuts and screws simultaneously. The jack and powered tool may each have respective power cords which are insertable into the cigarette lighter socket or alternatively into a power port of the manual controller. The invention may comprise a kit including one or more jacks, the powered tool and optionally a jack stand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2013
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Inventor: Dibu Wolde
  • Patent number: 8783660
    Abstract: A selectively positionable lifting system for a utility trailer, or the like, in which a jacking system is selectively attachable to a strategic position of the utility trailer in order to lift said trailer at the jack point for maintenance and repair purposes, the jacking system being easily removed and stowed when not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Inventor: Cliffdan R. Riddle
  • Publication number: 20140158961
    Abstract: A locking mechanism for use on a support winch includes a stator unit, a rotor unit and a locking unit, wherein the rotor unit has a shaft element and a crank element, wherein the crank element is pivotably arranged in relation to the shaft element, wherein the shaft element is rotatably mounted about a rotation axis, and secured to prevent displacement transverse to the rotation axis relative to the stator unit, wherein the locking unit secures the crank element in a first axial position when the crank element is in an idle position to prevent displacement along the rotation axis in at least one direction, and wherein the locking unit secures the crank element to prevent swiveling movement relative to the shaft element when the crank element is in an operating position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2013
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: SAF-Holland, GmbH
    Inventor: Katja Müller
  • Publication number: 20140117297
    Abstract: A stabilizer jack for stabilizing a recreational vehicle includes a channel having longitudinally extending side flanges and an end defining an aperture. A trunnion including a threaded bore is at least partially disposed within the channel for movement along the side flanges. A drive screw extends through the end aperture and engages the threaded bore of the trunnion. A support leg including a foot pad is rotatably connected to the trunnion. A link is hingedly connected to the support leg and the channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: NORCO INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventor: Bernard F. GARCEAU
  • Patent number: 8622426
    Abstract: A height-adjustable support for semi-trailers and the like includes a shaft tube body, a slidable support inner tube arranged in the shaft tube and body and having a foot mounted to an end region thereof by a nut located on a spindle which is drivable by a transmission, wherein the transmission has a switchable spur gear region and a beveled gear stage. The shifting region of the transmission comprises a low-gear pinion and a fast-gear wheel, wherein the low-gear pinion is coupled to a drive shaft that can mesh with a low-gear gearwheel, the fast-gear gearwheel is adapted to drive a fast-gear pinion, and wherein the fast-gear gearwheel is coupled to the drive shaft. The drive shaft is supported in an unrotatable and axially slidable manner in a sleeve bearing that is supported rotatably in at least a select one of a bearing block or load bearing base supporting the spindle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: SAF-HOLLAND GmbH
    Inventor: Reinhold Riedl
  • Patent number: 8579326
    Abstract: An extensible support leg includes at least two reciprocally-slidable portions, a maneuvering screw axially constrained to a first portion, a threaded volute axially constrained to a second portion and screwed on the maneuvering screw, and a rotating drive shaft which is connected to the maneuvering screw by a mechanical gear change, and is rotatable to set the maneuvering screw in rotation. The mechanical gear change includes: two first cogged crown wheels, coaxial and rotatably solid with the maneuvering screw; two second cogged crown wheels mounted coaxially and rotatably idle on the drive shaft, which enmesh directly with a respective first cogged crown wheel, realizing two gears having different transmission ratios; and a cursor, which is solidly rotatably associated to a portion of the drive shaft between the second cogged crown wheels, and is mobile, in a direction of the drive shaft axis, between first and second enmeshed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Simol S.p.A.
    Inventor: Valter Righetti
  • Patent number: 8469340
    Abstract: A foot device (29) for supporting a support device or lifting device, in particular a semitrailer support or the like, comprising a foot receptacle (31) for connecting a pivoting foot (32) to a support tube (12) of the lifting device (10), wherein the foot receptacle comprises an insertion body (120) for insertion into the support tube, comprising, in two support tube engagement areas spaced apart from one another by a spindle passage area (143) of a lifting spindle (20), bracket receptacles (123,124) for receiving pivoting brackets (130,131) of the pivoting foot, wherein the pivoting brackets are connected in a captive manner to the insertion body along a pivoting axis (136), and the bracket receptacles comprise counter support faces (133) which are arranged concentrically with respect to the pivoting axis and which, for transmitting the supporting forces, correspond with respective support faces (132) formed by the outer contour of the pivoting brackets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Haacon Hebetechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Holger Birkholz, Robert Miltenberger, Ralf Natterer, Gerhard Trunk
  • Patent number: 8444117
    Abstract: The invention relates to stabilizers for use with a vehicle. The quick release coupling system entails a pair of grooved plates that can easily attach and detach with respect to one another. The top plate of the coupling system is mechanically attached to the frame of the vehicle and a bottom plate is mechanically attached to a conventional stabilizer. These grooved plates create a quick release coupling joint that facilitates attachment and removal of the stabilizers from the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Curry Enterprises
    Inventors: Patrick A. Curry, Carmen R. Curry
  • Patent number: 8408522
    Abstract: The invention relates to a lifting device (10), in particular a semitrailer support or the like, comprising a shank tube (11) and a support tube (12) which is movable with respect to the shank tube, wherein on the shank tube a lifting gear mechanism (26) is arranged which comprises an input shaft arrangement (27) for connecting a drive device, and an output shaft arrangement (28) for driving a lifting spindle (20) which is arranged within the support tube and which acts on a pressure plate (18) arranged within the shank tube, wherein the pressure plate is located above the lifting gear mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Haacon Hebetechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Holger Birkholz, Werner Dölger, Robert Miltenberger, Ralf Natterer
  • Patent number: 8388023
    Abstract: The invention relates to a lifting device (10), in particular a semitrailer support or the like, comprising a shank tube (11) and a support tube (12) which is movable with respect to the shank tube, wherein on the shank tube, a lifting gear mechanism (26) is arranged which comprises an input shaft arrangement (27) for connecting a drive device and an output shaft arrangement (28) for driving a lifting spindle (20) which is arranged within the support tube and which rests with one end on a pressure plate (18) arranged within the shank tube and interacts with the moving end with a spindle nut (25) arranged in the support tube, wherein the spindle nut comprises a locking collar (90) with at least two locking devices (107, 108, 109, 110) which interact with locking latches (103, 104, 105, 106) formed on the tube wall of the support tube in such a manner that, with a coaxial alignment of the spindle nut with the support tube, the spindle nut can be inserted, in an assembly rotational angle position, into the suppo
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Haacon Hebetechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Holger Birkholz, Konrad Lazarus, Robert Miltenberger, Ralf Natterer
  • Patent number: 8382069
    Abstract: A support jack with a vertically telescopically displaceable supporting element having an outer sleeve and an inner sleeve is described. For the operator, it is sometimes hard to discern whether the support jacks find an adequate abutment on the ground. In an extreme case, the support jack sinks into the ground under the load of the vehicle. The vehicle is then no longer adequately supported and can tip over. For this reason, the object of the invention is to develop a support jack in such a way that secure standing is already discernible for the operator during extension of the supporting element. According to the invention, the object is achieved with a support jack in which a supporting load indicator with a pressure element is arranged on the supporting element, the pressure element triggering a signal when a predefinable supporting force is reached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Jost-Werke GmbH
    Inventors: José Manuel Algüera, Swen Saupe
  • Patent number: 8246011
    Abstract: A slidable adjustable jacking device where the numbers of rotations of a hand crank on a jacking device may be greatly reduced by using a slidable screwjack inner member to re-position a load-carrying member. New in the art is the use of a slidable screwjack inner member and an affixed bar within a tubular outer member and an affixed passageway. This invention re-positions a slidable screwjack inner member to a location and then pins the member such that the member is fixed relative to a trailer. The device is useful for raising or lowering the tongue of a trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Inventor: Elmer C. Fox, III
  • Patent number: 8157247
    Abstract: A support jack for supporting semitrailers including a vertically telescopically displaceable supporting device having an outer sleeve and an inner sleeve. A spindle nut has projections and contact elements for being positively detachably connected to the sleeves. The projections interact with openings of the inner sleeve for fixing the spindle nut in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the support jack. The contact elements interact with an inner side of the outer sleeve for fixing the spindle nut in the direction of rotation about the longitudinal axis. A method of assembling a support jack is also described, in which the spindle nut is connected detachably to the inner sleeve by at least one translatory and one rotary joining movement or at least two translatory joining movements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Jost-Werke GmbH
    Inventors: Günter Seidel, Gerald Müller
  • Patent number: 8112837
    Abstract: A vehicular wheel changing assembly, consisting of a case assembly housing a transformer. The transformer has electrical connections to at least first and second electrical connectors. The case assembly also houses a cable connector that supplies power to the transformer. The cable connector extends from the one circuit of a vehicle to the first electrical connector. An electrical power gun has an electrical cord having a plug that inserts into the second electrical connector. The electrical power gun further comprises a socket assembly having a plurality of sockets that each mount thereon. At least one of the plurality of different sized sockets is of a cooperative size to fit onto lug nuts of a vehicle wheel assembly. A jack assembly has lifting means to lift a vehicle, whereby the jack assembly has a cooperative head to receive at least one of the plurality of different sized sockets thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventor: Jose A. Lopez
  • Publication number: 20110215286
    Abstract: A system for supporting a vehicle. The system may include a vehicle jack in mechanical communication with a jack foot and a striker plate. The jack foot is rotatable relative to the vehicle jack on a rotation axis disposed on the vehicle jack and perpendicular to a long axis of the vehicle jack. The jack foot includes a base at a distal end of the jack foot. The jack foot also includes a cam surface at least in part at a proximal end of the jack foot. The cam surface is aligned with the striker plate and interacts with the striker plate to rotate the jack foot in response to movement of the vehicle jack from a lowered position to a raised position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2010
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Applicant: Progress Mfg. Inc.
    Inventor: Jason Harper
  • Publication number: 20110193038
    Abstract: The invention relates to stabilizers for use with a vehicle. The quick release coupling system entails a pair of grooved plates that can easily attach and detach with respect to one another. The top plate of the coupling system is mechanically attached to the frame of the vehicle and a bottom plate is mechanically attached to a conventional stabilizer. These grooved plates create a quick release coupling joint that facilitates attachment and removal of the stabilizers from the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Inventors: Patrick A. Curry, Carmen R. Curry
  • Publication number: 20100322715
    Abstract: An adjustable lift, such as a boat lift, or an adjustable apparatus mountable to a boat lift, comprising a frame supporting a keyway, a shaft and a screw along which a hub assembly travels. An axle may extend from the hub assembly and support a wheel, such that translation of the hub assembly along screw raises and lowers the wheel with respect to the frame members of the lift. In this way, the lift may be rolled into place, with its wheels then raised, so that frame members and/or feet of the lift rest on a lake bed or other surface. When wanting to move the lift, a user may rotate the screw in an opposite direction, lowering the wheel with respect to the frame member, freeing lift frame members and feet from the lake bed and allowing the user to roll the lift away.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2009
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Inventor: CHRISTOPHER GALIK
  • Publication number: 20100314510
    Abstract: An adjustable vehicle support stand is provided that includes a base, a lower collar secured to the base, a rod, an upper collar and a plate secured to the upper collar. The plate is configured for attachment to a wheel hub of a vehicle. The rod includes a lower portion and an upper portion that are threadably engaged with the lower and upper collars, respectively. One of the lower and upper portions of the rod includes a plurality of left-hand external threads and the other of the lower and upper portions of the rod includes a plurality of right-hand external threads. The rod also includes a torquing portion that separates the lower and upper portions of the rod and that is configured to facilitate rotation of the rod. The plate is vertically movable relative to the base in response to rotation of the rod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventors: David A. Munn, Brian T. Walters
  • Publication number: 20090272952
    Abstract: A support jack with a vertically telescopically displaceable supporting element having an outer sleeve and an inner sleeve is described. For the operator, it is sometimes hard to discern whether the support jacks find an adequate abutment on the ground. In an extreme case, the support jack sinks into the ground under the load of the vehicle. The vehicle is then no longer adequately supported and can tip over. For this reason, the object of the invention is to develop a support jack in such a way that secure standing is already discernible for the operator during extension of the supporting element. According to the invention, the object is achieved with a support jack in which a supporting load indicator with a pressure element is arranged on the supporting element, the pressure element triggering a signal when a predefinable supporting force is reached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2006
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventor: Jose Manuel Alguera
  • Patent number: 7584677
    Abstract: A kit is described that modifies a standard screw jack for a trailer hitch, by introducing a safety lock mechanism. The modified screw jack will be inoperative until the safety lock mechanism is opened. In the inoperative position, the screw jack cannot be turned to lift or lower the trailer hitch. The crank for turning the screw jack will be freewheeling or frozen. Turning a key in a lock keyway will release the safety lock mechanism, thus putting the crank into rotational engagement with the screw jack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Inventors: Glenn Johnson, John Pallay, Kevin Mak
  • Publication number: 20090057634
    Abstract: A stabilizer mechanism and stabilizer system for securement to the underside of fifth-wheel trailers, trailers or the like. The important feature of this invention is a stabilizer mechanism where the upper mounting bracket and lower foot bracket are off center. The stabilizer by itself would lean to one direction. The stabilizer is to be used in pairs with each placed as to lean in the direction of the other. The heavier the load the more stabilizing effect is applied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2007
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventor: Barciliso Jerry Giralde
  • Publication number: 20090057635
    Abstract: A motorcycle jack is described which allows an individual to right a motorcycle which has been downed, by themselves. The jack has a cradle, which maintains its horizontal disposition while the jack raises the bike from beneath the foot board bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2008
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventor: Dale F. Klco
  • Patent number: 7423392
    Abstract: A trailer jack system includes an electric linear actuator having an electric motor, a source of electric power, and a controller that supplies a first voltage to the electric motor when the electric linear actuator is loaded and a second voltage to the electric motor when the electric linear actuator is unloaded. The electric linear actuator also includes a cylindrically shaped housing, a leg coaxially extending and retracting from the housing, and a support foot at a free end of the leg. The controller supplies the first voltage to the electric motor when a motor current of the electric motor is below a predetermined threshold value and supplies the second voltage to the electric motor when the motor current is above the predetermined threshold value. Preferably, the first voltage is about 24 volts and the second voltage is about 12 volts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: Atwood Mobile Products LLC
    Inventor: George Patrick Gill
  • Patent number: 7416215
    Abstract: A housing has open and closed ends, an interior and exterior surface between the ends, the exterior surface having front and rear faces with upper and lower faces. A drive screw within the housing has distal and proximal ends with a threaded surface. A drop leg has an exterior surface in sliding contact with the interior surface of the housing and an interior surface with threads operatively coupled with the threads of the drive screw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Inventor: Israel Rosario
  • Publication number: 20080197332
    Abstract: A support jack for supporting semitrailers including a vertically telescopically displaceable supporting device having an outer sleeve and an inner sleeve. A spindle nut has first means and second means for being positively detachably connected to the sleeves. The first means interact with means of the inner sleeve for fixing the spindle nut in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the support jack. The second means interact with means of the outer sleeve for fixing the spindle nut in the direction of rotation about the longitudinal axis. A method of assembling a support jack is also described, in which the spindle nut is connected detachably to the inner sleeve by means of at least one translatory and one rotary joining movement or at least by means of two translatory joining movements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2006
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Inventors: Gunter Siedel, Gerald Muller
  • Publication number: 20080191183
    Abstract: A lifting device includes a jack having a first portion and a second portion movable relative to the first portion. A coupling is fixedly attached to the second portion for movement relative to the first portion, the coupling extending away from the second portion and having a configuration for selective attachment to a receiver hitch. The second portion may be moved relative to the first portion with a handle. The lifting device includes a sleeve coupled to the coupling for movement with the sleeve. Support tubing may extend through the sleeve for contact with the ground. This tubing may be locked into place relative to the sleeve. With the tubing, sleeve, and coupling locked into place, a vehicle will be upheld if the jack portions fail. The lifting device may also include a bumper attachment for raising a vehicle that does not have a receiver hitch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2007
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Inventor: Willard E. Rucks
  • Patent number: 7303205
    Abstract: A device for selectively compressing and decompressing an anti-sway bar. The device replaces the hand crank on traditional anti-sway bars and relieves drivers of having to get our to their vehicles to compress or decompress the anti-sway bar by hand. A lever is used to compress the anti-sway bar. The lever's head is attached to the anti-sway bar at the same position as the old hand crank, using the bolts and nuts from the hand crank. The lever is raised with the assistance of an electric motor that is controlled by a switch in the cab of the towing vehicle. The motor turns a screw that extends through a nut in the handle of the lever. Micro-switches are used to automatically stop the electric motor when the lever has reached a desired position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Inventors: James Richardson, Ralph Sheets
  • Patent number: 7303210
    Abstract: A secured crank locking device automatically secures a hand crank in its operative position to an input shaft of a gearing mechanism, with the locking device being easily disengaged to move the crank from its operative position to a stored position following rotation of the crank in the operation of the mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Baxter Properties, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Bobby G. Baxter, David A. Baxter
  • Patent number: 7249754
    Abstract: A stabilizing jack (10) for securement to the underside of a recreational vehicle. The jack includes a channel frame (25) formed with longitudinal trunnion flanges. A longitudinal screw (50) is rotatably mounted in the channel and drives a trunnion (38) that rides between the trunnion flanges (22a, 22b). A support leg (30) is rotatably connected to the trunnion. Rotation of the screw drives the trunnion towards an outboard end of the jack and lowers the support leg to its supporting position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Norco Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Bernard F. Garceau, James D. McDonald, Jon M. Smith
  • Patent number: 7208896
    Abstract: An electric jack load balancing method and device for reducing the difference in load carried by each jack of a pair of electric jacks while adjusting the attitude of a platform. The device includes a controller configured to reduce the difference in load carried by each jack of a pair of electric jacks. The method includes monitoring the power draws of the jack motors of the pair of electric jacks, comparing the ratio of the power draws of the jack motors to a predetermined desirable power draw ratio, and when the jack motor power draw ratio differs from the desirable power draw ratio, modifying the operation of the jacks in such a way as to decrease the difference between their actual power draw ratio and the predetermined desirable power draw ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Innovative Design Solutions
    Inventors: Robert M. Ford, John P. Manfreda, Mark J. Woloszyk, Shawn P. Haley
  • Patent number: 7199534
    Abstract: A method and device for detecting the stroke limit of an electric motor-driven jack while the jack is being used to adjust the attitude of a mobile platform. A controller is programmed to detect when an electric jack motor has driven a jack to a jack stroke limit by monitoring one or more jack motor power draw characteristics and comparing those values to known values associated with the driving of a jack at or near the end of a jack stroke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Assignee: Innovative Design Solutions
    Inventors: Robert M. Ford, John P. Manfreda, Mark J. Woloszyk, Shawn P. Haley
  • Patent number: 7193381
    Abstract: An electric jack ground contact detection method and device for detecting ground contact of an electric motor-driven jack as the jack is being extended to adjust the attitude of a mobile platform. The device includes a controller that monitors the electrical power draw of an electric motor-driven jack while the jack is being extended for use in adjusting the attitude of a mobile platform. The controller recognizes jack ground contact when the monitored power draw value exceeds a ground contact power draw value consistent with jack ground contact. The controller calculates the ground contact power draw value as equaling the sum of a dynamically-adjusted threshold power draw value associated with jack extension before ground contact and a power draw increase value equaling an amount of additional power that the jack is known to draw as a result of jack ground contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: Innovative Design Solutions
    Inventors: Robert M. Ford, John P. Manfreda, Mark J. Woloszyk, Shawn P. Haley
  • Patent number: 6997443
    Abstract: A jack for a vehicle includes a main frame fixed to an underside of a vehicle. A screw rod extends through two end plates that are respectively formed on two ends of the main frame. A movable member and a fixed member are respectively mounted on the screw rod. A lower supporting member includes a lower end in contact with the ground and an upper end pivotally connected to the movable member. The connecting member includes a first end pivotally connected to the fixed member and a second end pivotally connected to an intermediate portion of the lower supporting member. The lower supporting member and the connecting member are moved to a position for supporting the vehicle when the screw rod is turned in a direction. The lower supporting member and the connecting member are folded when the screw rod is turned in a reverse direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Inventor: Wen-Fong Jean
  • Patent number: 6907835
    Abstract: The pontoon boat lift system comprises a plurality of lifts. Each lift is comprised of a channel that mounts to deck support members of the boat. A leg is pivotally mounted to one end of the channel. A screw supported in the channel is turned by a connection to an electric motor. A threaded follower on the screw travels along the screw when it is rotated by the motor. A fulcrum arm connects between the threaded follower and the leg to transmit a longitudinal movement of the follower into a pivotal movement of the leg. The leg is thus moveable between a raised and a lowered position. The operation of the lifts is coordinated to raise the pontoon boat above the surface of the water at desired shoreline locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Assignee: Derner Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric J. Derner, Alan A. Derner, Brian P. Derner, Richard B. Derner
  • Patent number: 6827335
    Abstract: A center motor driven stabilizer jack having a motor driven slip differential which drives a left and a right thread screw lowering attached stabilizer legs which adjust and compensate for uneven terrain at the same time. The stabilizer jack slip differential, motor and the thread screws are mounted horizontally providing a low profile. The center drive system creates a beam style support the stabilizer legs to be moved further out for greater stability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Inventor: Joseph M. Medberry
  • Patent number: 6820377
    Abstract: A one piece assembly of a small production unit (23) for panels intended for building comprises an upper tray (2) a bottom tray of longer length (1) a collapsible crane (7) situated on the upper tray (2) supporting the crane structure (7) is horizontally mobile with rollers (11) supported on rail (12) positioned on the bottom tray (1) without requiring an external support lying on the ground. The vertical movement of the upper tray (2) is assured by an assembly of screw jacks (4), plates (18), guides (14) and runners (13). The compact assembly (23) of the production unit can be moved from site to site without heavy handling movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: Groupe P.A.D.F., Inc.
    Inventor: Didier Fumez
  • Publication number: 20040178399
    Abstract: An improved RV lift mechanism according to the present invention. In one embodiment, the lift functions by way of an elongated, rotatably mounted acme screw. A bracket slides parallel to the acme screw, securing to an acme screw and an object to be lifted. The acme nut is threaded onto the acme screw and further held from rotation by the bracket. Thus, as the acme screw turns, it presses against the bracket, lifting or lowering both it and its payload.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2003
    Publication date: September 16, 2004
    Inventors: Raymond W. Blodgett, Benjamin J. Fletes
  • Patent number: 6779822
    Abstract: A vehicle jack for a vehicle includes (a) a load rest for engagement with an underside of the vehicle, (b) a base having a ground engaging surface, and (c) a raising and lowering mechanism. The jack is stored in a jack retaining space which is formed at least in part by a jack engaging surface of a post member of a mounting element extending from a structural member of the vehicle and the post member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: Ventra Group Inc.
    Inventors: Brent H Foat, Wayne Doswell
  • Patent number: 6726179
    Abstract: A fifth wheel helper is adapted to be inserted underneath a fifth wheel hitch plate to hold it in a horizontal position so that the truck can be pulled forward after the king pin of the trailer has been trapped behind the fifth wheel. The fifth wheel helper comprises a solid piece of material having a tapered first end and a flat second end and an indentation on an underside thereof for engaging a truck frame rail to hold the fifth wheel helper underneath the hitch plate. A safety bolt is provided for locking the fifth wheel helper on the truck frame rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Inventors: John Howard Ketchapaw, Clifford Ketchapaw
  • Patent number: 6644626
    Abstract: A shelf dolly comprises a caster-footed pedestal base and a lifting sleeve slidably connected to the pedestal base. A shelf-leg coupling adapter, provided for removably coupling the lifting sleeve to a shelf leg, is connected to the lifting sleeve. Additionally, the shelf dolly is equipped with a jack for raising and lowering the lifting sleeve with respect to the pedestal base. To raise a shelf leg, the shelf dolly is positioned next to the leg. The lifting sleeve portion of the shelf dolly is coupled to the shelf leg using the shelf-leg coupling adapter. Subsequently, the shelf dolly's jack is operated, causing the lifting sleeve to move upwards, and the shelf leg, coupled to the lifting sleeve, to lift off the ground. To move a shelf, a shelf dolly is attached to each shelf leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Inventor: Matthew D. Baril
  • Patent number: 6634688
    Abstract: The present application discloses a method for mounting a vehicle jack in a stored position on a motor vehicle. The present application also discloses a combination of a vehicle and a jack stored on the vehicle, and a vehicle jack configured to be stored on a vehicle. Further, the present application also discloses a motor vehicle having an arrangement for retaining a vehicle jack thereon in a stored position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: Ventra Group Inc.
    Inventors: Brent H Foat, Wayne Doswell
  • Patent number: 6619693
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for automatically leveling a vehicle including four legs mounted to the vehicle adjacent corners of the vehicle, each leg being adjustable between a stowed position and an extended position wherein the leg engages the ground, a level sensor mounted to the vehicle for sensing the pitch and roll of the vehicle, the level sensor producing an orientation signal representing the vehicle pitch and roll, and a controller coupled to the legs and the level sensor including a memory for storing data representing a reference level plane, a microprocessor for interpreting the orientation signal to determine the present pitch and roll of the vehicle relative to the reference level plane, and outputs driven by the microprocessor for actuating the legs to reduce the difference between the present pitch and roll of the vehicle and the reference level plane, thereby leveling the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Days Corporation
    Inventors: James Sproatt, Alice Posley, Michael Seiy, Mark M. Eichhorn
  • Patent number: RE43535
    Abstract: The swivel jack assembly is used with trailers to vertically position a trailer tongue for mounting onto a hitch of the towing vehicle. The swivel jack assembly includes a jack-mounting bracket welded to an outer housing of the jack, and a tongue-mounting bracket mounted onto the tongue portion of a trailer. The jack also includes a novel swivel mechanism for pivoting the mechanism in either an upright support position or a horizontal stowed position. A cup-shaped section of the jack-mounting bracket nests within a cup-shaped section of the tongue-mounting bracket. When in the upright position, the jack extends vertically and may be used to raise or lower the tongue and support the trailer. The swivel jack assembly keeps the trailer in a level position when the trailer is disengaged from the towing vehicle. The swivel jack assembly is pivotally mounted onto the trailer tongue such that they can be pivotally repositioned to a stowed position when not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Cequent Performance Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael John Roll