Vehicle-body Lifters Patents (Class 254/45)
  • Patent number: 11105623
    Abstract: A system and method for leveling a selected surface of a structure. The system includes a handheld mobile device and a platform leveling assembly (PLA) supportable on a structure to be leveled. The PLA includes a PLA controller and a PLA receiver communicatively coupled with the PLA controller. The handheld mobile device includes a tilt sensor configured to sense an attitude of a selected surface on which the handheld mobile device is placed; an output device configured to provide an indication to a user; an input device configured to receive input from the user; a transmitter configured to send wireless signals to the PLA receiver; and a mobile device controller communicatively coupled to the tilt sensor, the output device, the input device, and the transmitter and configured to cause the output device to provide an indication of the sensed attitude of the selected surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Assignee: Lippert Components, Inc.
    Inventor: John Peter Manfreda
  • Patent number: 10889961
    Abstract: A control system retracts lifting devices to a stored reset height during a reset operation to raise support feet off of a base surface. The control device raises a load to a stored moving height above the base surface during a moving operation. The control system automatically repeats the reset and moving operations using the stored reset and stored moving heights. The control device may receive an adjustment signal identifying anew height of the support feet or load bearing frame above the base surface and uses the new height during subsequent reset or moving operations. The control device may default to a minimum reset height or a minimum moving height when the new height would cause the support feet or load bearing frame to drag on the base surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2021
    Assignee: ENTRO INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventor: Brian Unger
  • Patent number: 10807571
    Abstract: An adjustable motor mounting system having an adjustable motor mount and a gear box with a motor. The adjustable motor mount has a first plate attached slidably to I-beams on a frame of a semi-trailer and attached to a second plate with a hinge so that the second plate is rotatable relative to the first plate. A third plate is attached slidably to the second plate and has a mounting plate attached thereto. The gear box is attached to the mounting plate and to a landing gear crankshaft of the semi-trailer. The adjustable motor mounting system renders the gear box movable towards or away from the landing gear crankshaft, movable leftward or rightward of the landing gear crankshaft, and movable upward or downward relative to the landing gear crankshaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2020
    Inventors: Kelvin Lee Myrex, Russell Van Freeman
  • Patent number: 10773936
    Abstract: A bracket can be mounted to a mobile lift column. The bracket may include one or more hangers on which the cables extending between the individual mobile lift columns may be suspended. In this way, the cables are elevated from the floor and work surface and no longer present a tripping hazard for personnel in the work area nor an obstacle over which equipment must roll during the servicing of the vehicle. Advantageously, the brackets may be individually mounted to each lift column as original equipment when the column is purchased or as a retrofit improvement to existing lift columns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: ARI Phoenix, Inc.
    Inventor: Gareth Y. Hudson
  • Patent number: 10666185
    Abstract: A rapidly deployed photovoltaic (PV) apparatus (2) providing a PV array (10) housed within an easily transportable standardized container. The PV array (10) is movable between a stowed position in a V-shape configuration and a fully deployed flat position. Dual function hydraulic cylinders are provided for movement of the array (10) in the fully deployed position and movement of the container when the array (10) is in the stowed position. Solar tracking of the array (10) is facilitated by linear compensation translators which are attachable to the hydraulic cylinders upon full deployment. A retractable roof structure is provided which allows trickle charging to occur when the array (10) is in the V-shaped stowed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2020
    Inventor: Justin S. Aikens
  • Patent number: 10545509
    Abstract: The subject matter of this specification generally relates to modular vehicles including separable pod and base units. In some implementations, a computing system installed in a vehicle base identifies a vehicle pod that is detachably connected to a chassis on the vehicle base. In response to identifying that the vehicle pod is detachably connected to the chassis on the vehicle base, a communications link can be established between the computing system installed in the vehicle base and a computing system installed in the vehicle pod. Based on information obtained through the communications link, the computing system installed in the vehicle base can determine a particular configuration of the vehicle pod that is detachably connected to the chassis. The computing system can then verify that the vehicle base can safely transport the vehicle pod while the vehicle pod is detachably connected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2020
    Assignee: X Development LLC
    Inventors: Johan Ulrich Lewin Jessen, Kristina Liv Larsen, Martin Friedrich Schubert, Michael Patrick Bauerly, Michael Jason Grundmann, Rowan M. Ogden, Phillip Edwin Watson
  • Patent number: 10513214
    Abstract: A crane system includes a skid assembly having an operator base and plurality of outrigger assemblies coupled to the operator base that support and lift the base from a first elevation to a second elevation. The crane system also includes a jib crane coupled to the skid assembly. The jib crane includes a pillar assembly coupled to the skid assembly and a boom assembly coupled to the pillar assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2019
    Assignee: Konecranes Global Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph A. Yustus, Joel Chellman
  • Patent number: 10479256
    Abstract: Systems and methods for loading a container onto a container carrier comprising, lowering a set of rails of the container carrier from a raised position to a lowered position, wherein a horizontal surface of each of the set of rails is lower than the bottom surface of the container, expanding, horizontally, the set of rails, to an expanded position, moving at least one of the container carrier or the container so that the container is between the set of rails, contracting, horizontally, the set of rails, to a contracted position, such that the horizontal surface of each of the set of rails is directly underneath the bottom surface of the container and raising the set of rails from the lowered position to the raised position, such that the horizontal surface of each of the set of rails lift the container off the supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2019
    Inventor: Cyrus Rezvanian
  • Patent number: 10363857
    Abstract: The present implementation relates to an adjustable, removable, moving chain link fence or wall. The moving chain link fence or wall is part of a kit which may be installed to an existing truck or trailer having a flat bed, side walls and potentially a tail gate. The implementation may include a winch, a wheel assembly, and an adjustable, moving chain link fence or wall which can fit all trucks and trailers. In use, the implementation may be placed in the front of a truck or trailer and the bed is loaded with debris, or material. The winch may be activated in the “out” position. The device then travels along the top of the floor and pushes the debris or material out of the truck or trailer back end. Rubber wheels may be installed on the bottom of the implementation to ensure a smooth movement while in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2019
    Inventors: Michael Ulinger, Linda Katherine Ulinger
  • Patent number: 10344487
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for securing a transport device to preexisting studs or support members. One embodiment includes a clamp assembly with a compression fitting adapted to be secured to a plurality of different sized studs or wall supports, and further to support additional supports including, but not limited, horizontal support members. A transport device is further provided that is selectively connectable to clamp and support members of the disclosure. In another embodiment, a hook bracket is provided which includes a projection configured to be positioned in a hole through a stud. The extension may include a notch to engage a portion of the stud. The hook bracket includes at least one aperture adapted to secure the hook bracket to a support member operatively interconnected to the transport device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Assignee: Oldcastle Light Building Products, LLC
    Inventor: Daniel M. Nyce
  • Patent number: 10072945
    Abstract: A jack leveling apparatus utilizes a Hall effect sensor to determine a rate of movement of the jack leveling apparatus. The rate of movement is correlated to loading or unloading of the jack level device. When a load is applied to the jack level, the rate of movement will slow while alternatively, if a load is removed, the rate of movement will increase. Utilizing these values, the controller may also determine the position of the leg of the jack level device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2018
    Assignee: LIPPERT COMPONENTS MANUFACTURING, INC.
    Inventor: Larry Allan McGuire
  • Patent number: 10053307
    Abstract: A shuttle van system for a container terminal, including: at least one rail and a transfer device. The transfer device includes a plurality of shuttle vans and a plurality of transition platforms. Each shuttle van includes: a base frame, a wheel group, a wheel driving device, a lifting device, and a supporting plate. Each transition platform includes brackets. The shuttle vans run on the rail between the brackets. The lifting device of the shuttle van is configured to lift the container from the supporting plate. The container is transferred from the supporting plate of the shuttle van to the bracket after contraction of the lifting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2018
    Assignee: TIANJIN PORT (GROUP) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Wei Li, Xun Li, Guoli An, Lianyi Zhu, Qingxin Lv, Rong Yang, Qiang Li
  • Patent number: 9731689
    Abstract: The invention relates to a supporting device of a vehicle, in particular of a semi-trailer or trailer, comprising an outer pipe which is designed to be attached to the vehicle in a stationary manner, an inner pipe which is arranged in the outer pipe so as to be movable in the insertion and extension direction, an actuating device for moving the inner pipe between a transport position and an operating position, and an engagement device which is designed, in a first operating state, to fix the inner pipe in the operating position in relation to the outer pipe in such a way that a movement of the inner pipe in the insertion direction is prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Assignee: SAF-HOLLAND, GmbH
    Inventor: Reinhold Riedl
  • Patent number: 9611128
    Abstract: A lifting system and method of use thereof for lifting a vehicle. The lifting system includes one or more lifting devices. Each lifting device includes a frame with a carrier configured for carrying the vehicle, a drive for driving the carrier in at least one of the ascent or decent of the carrier, a transmitter/receiver for wireless communication with a central controller that is configured for centrally controlling the one or more lifting devices, and a sensor for measuring at least one of the ascent or descent of the carrier. The central controller includes a transmitter/receiver for communication with individual lifting devices and a processor for determining required control actions for individual lifting devices. The central controller and/or at least one of the lifting devices includes a user input. The central controller controls two or more independent groups of selected lifting devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2017
    Assignee: Stertil B.V.
    Inventors: Rudolf Jacobus Antonius Van Houten, Jurjen Jan De Jong
  • Patent number: 9096415
    Abstract: A lifting device for scissor lifts, in particular for raising motor vehicles, which during the starting phase of the lifting movement requires a reduced force for raising. The lifting device for scissor lifts includes at least two scissor arms which cross one another, a linear actuator for raising a scissor arm, a double lever joint which is pivotably mounted on a scissor arm; wherein the double lever joint couples the lifting movement of the linear actuator to at least one scissor arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2015
    Assignee: MAHA MASCHINENBAU HALDENWANG GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Veronika Bleeker, Andreas Gartner, Thomas Grotzinger
  • Publication number: 20150014608
    Abstract: A support device, preferably for commercial vehicles such as semi-trailers, includes an inner support tube and an outer support tube moveable relative to one another along a longitudinal axis in a retraction and extension direction; a spindle rotated via a gear section and is arranged such that the spindle is stationary relative to the outer support tube; and a spindle nut which is mounted on the spindle, wherein the spindle nut is fixed on a mounting region of the inner support tube, and the mounting region is configured as a support edge facing the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventor: Reinhold Riedl
  • Patent number: 8869943
    Abstract: A vehicle lift comprises a lifting mechanism configured to lift a vehicle for servicing, and at least one horizontal platform attached to a top of the lifting mechanism to engage with an underside of the vehicle. Adjustable slide members are movably attached to opposite ends of the horizontal platform and each are configured to move linearly in a horizontal path to align with the lifting points on the vehicle. Each slide member is both pivotally and slidingly engaged with the horizontal platform, and each slide member has a normally horizontal position. When the slide member is horizontal, the slide member is automatically constrained or locked to prevent linear movement of the slide member. When one end of the slide member is lifted to an angular position, the constraint is automatically disengaged and a linear slide bearing is engaged. When the slide member is in the angular position, the slide member can be easily adjusted via the bearings to match with a pick up point on an underside of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Rotary Lift/A Dover Industries Company
    Inventors: Jason E. Matthews, John G. Atkinson
  • Patent number: 8695942
    Abstract: A vehicle lift comprises a pair of parallel ramps (2) each of which is pivoted to an upstanding support (1) at one end, wherein the two ramps (2) are connected by a cross-beam (6) located towards the ends distal from the pivots (3) and rigidly secured to the ramps (2), which cross-beam (6) includes a lifting box (7) engageable with a lifting jack (12) and located substantially midway between the two ramps (2) such that lifting forces are directed through the center line of the cross-beam (6). The cross-beam (6) bears against the ground when the ramps (2) are in a downwards position. The jack (12) can be replaced by axle stands (10) when the ramps (2) are elevated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Graham Dawes
  • Patent number: 8690128
    Abstract: An anodized aluminum hydraulic leveling cylinder 10 for a vehicle includes an extruded hollow body 20 having a vehicle attachment portion 24 for attaching the body to the underside of a vehicle. A piston 80 is slidably fitted into the interior of the body. The piston is formed of ductile aluminum capable of being machined to a desirable shape and dimensions. The piston is hard anodized and PTFE coated for durable and silent operation. Hydraulic oil passage means 23a, 23b is formed in the body, and a cap 50 with a pair of dual flow-through passages 53 is attached to the top end 30 of the body for permitting the flow of pressurized hydraulic oil into and out of the interior of the body to effect axial movement of the piston. Hydraulic fluid may be transferred through one or more hollow mounting bolts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Lippert Components Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael A. Schwindaman, Thomas J. Rogers, Michael W. Howard
  • Patent number: 8491009
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an anti-theft system for a camper. The camper is supported at its front end by a pair of spaced-apart jacks. The system includes a barrier having a first end operatively connecting to a first one of the jacks and a second end opposite thereof. The second end of the barrier operatively connects to a second one of the jacks. The barrier extends in a horizontal direction and is positioned and configured to prevent an unauthorized vehicle from passing underneath the camper and mounting of the camper onto the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Inventor: Mathew Bradley Shelton
  • Patent number: 8490939
    Abstract: A method for stabilizing a vehicle in an unstable condition includes the steps of placing one or more beam-like structures at the floor pan or vehicle undercarriage of a damaged vehicle resting on its roof, side, or in an upright or other position, aligning the beam-like structure substantially parallel with the length of the vehicle, and securing the beam-like structure to the vehicle at one or more points, using hooks, straps, chains, or a similar securing mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Res-Q-Jack, Inc.
    Inventor: Cris E. Pasto
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20130020541
    Abstract: A vehicle lift comprises a pair of parallel ramps (2) each of which is pivoted to an upstanding support (1) at one end, wherein the two ramps (2) are connected by a cross-beam (6) located towards the ends distal from the pivots (3) and rigidly secured to the ramps (2), which cross-beam (6) includes a lifting box (7) engageable with a lifting jack (12) and located substantially midway between the two ramps (2) such that lifting forces are directed through the centre line of the cross-beam (6). The cross-beam (6) bears against the ground when the ramps (2) are in a downwards position. The jack (12) can be replaced by axle stands (10) when the ramps (2) are elevated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2012
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Graham Dawes
  • Publication number: 20130020542
    Abstract: A vehicle lift system includes a support structure having a top surface for supporting a vehicle supported by the vehicle lift system, and at least one lighting module. The lighting module is mounted to the top surface of the support structure. The lighting module is configured to illuminate a region of the vehicle, for example, but not limited to, the underside of the vehicle. The lighting module can be mounted generally flush relative to the top surface of the support structure. In a vehicle wheel alignment lift system, the lighting module can be disposed adjacent a movable support surface of the wheel runway apparatus to provide illumination during wheel alignment procedures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2012
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Inventor: Roy J. Dantas
  • Patent number: 8272623
    Abstract: A lifting device for lifting a shipping container off a flat bed of a truck is described. The device comprises a cross member and a pair of arms connected thereto. The upper ends of the arms engage in the connector castings at the upper end of an end of the container. The cross member carries near its ends a pair of guides through which a pair of legs are slidably mounted. The upper end of each leg has an outwardly directed lug. A block and tackle unit is connected between the lug and the cross member. There is a lifting device at each end of the container. When the unit is actuated the container is lifted off the flat bed so that the truck can move away and the container thereafter lowered on to the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Inventors: Andres Joseph Draxl, Henry Jansen Van Rensburg
  • Publication number: 20110154909
    Abstract: A method for steadying an aircraft using jack props, in which: a number and location of the props to be used is determined as a function of an area of operation, on the basis of a prop map; strain gauges arranged on the structure of the aircraft are used; predetermined props that are to be used are fitted; the strains measured by at least one strain gauge situated in the operating zone are checked; and the load applied by at least one prop positioned in the operating zone is regulated according to the strains measured by the gauge and so as to minimize the strains. A steadying device can implement the method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2009
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Applicant: Airbus
    Inventor: David Larcher
  • Patent number: 7740109
    Abstract: A method is provided for controlling a vehicle lifting device, having at least two, preferably moveable, lifting columns (1-4), which are controlled wirelessly. When a switch is activated for raising or lowering the lifting device, a corresponding signal is transmitted wirelessly to the lifting columns (1-4) and additional signals, which are representative of the individual lifting movements, are transmitted to a control device (5). In the case of unacceptably high movement differences between individual lifting columns, the normal operation is stopped. Here, it is essential that for monitoring the wireless signal transmission, the control device (5) exchanges control signals with the lifting columns (1-4) continuously, and the reception of these control signals is monitored at least in one direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Otto Nussbaum GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Felix Möller, Hans Nussbaum
  • Patent number: 7717290
    Abstract: A transport device such as an ISO container that is adapted to be transported by air or surface transportation. The transport device includes a base, a plurality of movable ISO corner blocks movably coupled to the base, and a plurality of adjustment mechanisms. Each adjustment mechanism is adapted to couple a respective corner block to the base and to selectively move the corner block with respect to the base between an air transport position, wherein the bottom surface of the corner block does not extend beyond the bottom surface of the base, and a surface transport position wherein the bottom surface of the corner block is located below the bottom surface of the base. The base includes a plurality of roller plates that form the bottom surface of the base and that are adapted to engage rollers of an aircraft cargo handling system. The transport device also includes detent rails that are removably attached to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: AAR Corp.
    Inventor: William J. Gerding
  • Patent number: 7704032
    Abstract: A self-contained mobile storage container includes a truck having a platform with a track, a storage container removably placed on the track on the platform, wherein the storage container includes a front end, a rear end and parallel sides. In addition, there are devices to secure the storage container to the platform, as well as a lift to elevate the storage container and remove it from the platform. Other devices are included to maneuver the storage container to a different geographical location for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: MGL Storage Partners, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Rash, Lisa K. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20100051884
    Abstract: A vehicle lift comprises a lifting mechanism configured to lift a vehicle for servicing, and at least one horizontal platform attached to a top of the lifting mechanism to engage with an underside of the vehicle. Adjustable slide members are movably attached to opposite ends of the horizontal platform and each are configured to move linearly in a horizontal path to align with the lifting points on the vehicle. Each slide member is both pivotally and slidingly engaged with the horizontal platform, and each slide member has a normally horizontal position. When the slide member is horizontal, the slide member is automatically constrained or locked to prevent linear movement of the slide member. When one end of the slide member is lifted to an angular position, the constraint is automatically disengaged and a linear slide bearing is engaged. When the slide member is in the angular position, the slide member can be easily adjusted via the bearings to match with a pick up point on an underside of a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: Rotary Lift/A Dover Industries Company
    Inventors: Jason E. Matthews, John G. Atkinson
  • Publication number: 20090315004
    Abstract: A lifting device for lifting a shipping container off a flat bed of a truck is described. The device comprises a cross member and a pair of arms connected thereto. The upper ends of the arms engage in the connector castings at the upper end of an end of the container. The cross member carries near its ends a pair of guides through which a pair of legs are slidably mounted. The upper end of each leg has an outwardly directed lug. A block and tackle unit is connected between the lug and the cross member. There is a lifting device at each end of the container. When the unit is actuated the container is lifted off the flat bed so that the truck can move away and the container thereafter lowered on to the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2007
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Inventors: Andres Joseph Draxl, Henry Jansen Van Rensburg
  • Patent number: 7631897
    Abstract: Vehicle leveling device having a stand which, in use, is positioned on the ground next to a wheel of a vehicle, a lever beam which extends laterally from the stand and beneath the wheel with a proximal end portion of the lever beam being mounted on the stand for movement between raised and lowered positions and a distal end portion of the lever beam resting on the ground beneath the vehicle, a jack for raising the proximal end portion of the lever beam on the stand, with the distal end portion bearing on the ground and serving as a fulcrum for the lever beam in lifting the wheel, and a lock for holding the proximal end portion of the lever beam in a fixed position on the stand with the wheel in a raised position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Inventor: Tauno Tapio Kartiala
  • Patent number: 7600731
    Abstract: A folding telescopic buttress stand includes a first two-piece telescopic section having an outer tubing member and an inner tubing member in slidable engagement, the outer tubing member being pivotally attached at its lower end to a base plate, and the inner tubing member having attached at its upper end a second two-piece telescopic section having an outer tubing member and an inner tubing member in slidable engagement. One embodiment includes an end fitting or adapter for engagement with a vehicle or other object affixed to the upper end of the inner tubing member. Yet another embodiment includes a third two-piece telescopic section having an outer tubing member and an inner tubing member in slidable engagement affixed to the upper end of the second two-piece telescopic section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: Res-Q-Jack, Inc.
    Inventor: Cris E. Pasto
  • Patent number: 7588341
    Abstract: An illuminative jack includes a lighting device disposed in a top plate and connected to a switch. When the user switches on the switch, the lighting device will be radiated by the power supplied by a power source, thus providing an illumination effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Assignee: Kai Hsiang Enterprise Co Ltd.
    Inventor: Lai-Shun Lin
  • Publication number: 20090085020
    Abstract: The wheel-less camper comprises at least one jack mounted to the camper, the first jack being disposed inside the first sidewall. The camper may include a second jack, the second jack being disposed inside the second sidewall. Each wall of the camper may have an inner wall and an outer wall, the first jack being disposed between the inner and outer wall of the first sidewall and the second jack being disposed between the inner wall and outer wall of the second sidewall. The camper may also include third jack and a fourth jack. In one embodiment, the inner walls are omitted. In another embodiment, the inner wall includes a bulged area or an unevenness to accommodate one or more of the jacks. In another embodiment, the first jack may be a pull-out jack that is movable between a first position in which it is disposed inside the first sidewall and a second position in which it extends out from the first sidewall. The camper may include a second pull-out jack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2008
    Publication date: April 2, 2009
    Applicant: RIECO-TITAN PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Robert E. McCarthy, John L. Verre, Douglas A. Bakker
  • Patent number: 7497417
    Abstract: An embodiment of the invention is directed to camper having a four point jack system with a brace stabilization system. Typically, the camper includes four jacks anchored at four anchor points on the camper. The camper further includes one or more stabilization braces that provide an attachment between the base of the camper and one of the four jacks. In one embodiment, the stabilization braces may be anchored at a brace anchor point on the base of the camper such that the anchor point includes a tie rod with a swivel end. The braces may swivel to attach to a respective jack at any point along the jack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Inventor: Walt Perham
  • Publication number: 20090026426
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a truck crane with a winch, in particular a hoisting winch, which is mounted on the uppercarriage, wherein the truck crane includes means for raising and/or lowering the winch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2008
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Inventor: Hans-Dieter Willim
  • Publication number: 20080224107
    Abstract: A preferred embodiment of a system includes a lifting device for lifting a motor vehicle, a support structure for mounting the lifting device in a pit, and a carriage for supporting the lifting device from the support structure and being movable within the support structure. The system also includes a cover coupled to opposite sides of the carriage so that the cover extends away from the carriage and continuously between the opposite sides of the carriage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2005
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Inventors: Kurt E. Polins, Glenn D Felpel, Allan Pavlick
  • Publication number: 20080084089
    Abstract: There is a telescoping camper that has a lower camper portion and an upper camper portion that slides around and over the lower camper portion in a telescoping fashion. Primary jacks are attached to each corner of the upper camper portion. There is a lift mechanism attached to the upper edge of each primary jack that actuates a jack extension that extends and contracts from the bottom edge of each primary jack. There is a removable jack support attached to each corner of the lower camper portion and adjacent to and essentially parallel to each primary jack. Each jack support has a support platform attached to the base. The upper camper portion is telescoped upward from the lower camper portion by actuating the lift mechanism that extends all four jack extensions simultaneously with the jack bases contacting and pushing upward from the support platforms until the upper camper portion is in a fully extended position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2007
    Publication date: April 10, 2008
    Inventor: Christopher H. Hanson
  • Patent number: 7296776
    Abstract: A method for stabilizing a roof-resting vehicle includes the steps of leaning one or more buttress stands against a rear fender area of the vehicle, passing a chain under a rear end of the vehicle from one of the buttress stands to another, tightening the slack from the chain by pulling chain-grab end fittings towards the fenders at the vehicle undercarriage, using a ratchet strap, restraining the chain from sliding off the rear end of the vehicle by attaching a ratchet strap to the chain near a trunk lid of the vehicle, and passing the chain up to the vehicle undercarriage in front of a wheel assembly of the vehicle, attaching a ratchet strap at a base of the one or more buttress stands and tightening, and placing wedges in front of the opposite end of the vehicle, such that the vehicle is stabilized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Res-Q-Jack, Inc.
    Inventor: Cris E. Pasto
  • Patent number: 7219770
    Abstract: A coordinated lift system with user selectable RF channels coordinates the raising and lowering of a vehicle relative to a surface by using wireless communications. The lift system includes at least two lift mechanisms each having support frame, including a post, a carriage, an actuating device, and a control device with a channel selector switch. The carriage is slidably mounted on the post and is configured to support a portion of the vehicle. The actuating device is engaged between the support frame and the carriage and is activated to move the carriage relative to the post. The control device is interfaced with the actuating device and includes an RF transceiver to enable communication by RF signals with the other control device. The channel on which the transceiver operates is user selectable in the field. A rechargeable battery may provide power to the control device to allow for increased mobility of the lift system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Inventor: William J. Baker
  • Patent number: 7191038
    Abstract: A vehicle lift has a communication and/or a lift control assembly, including a processor, which is functional to control the raising and lowering of the lift and to enable the display of, and communication of, a variety of lift data. The vehicle lift includes sensors in communication with the control, where the pre-programmed processor recognizes and categorizes lift data and lift faults before sending warnings, notices, and other lift data to lift users, maintenance providers, or a central headquarters. The visual display unit of the assemblies may include a processor and may be detachable or adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Assignee: Rotary Lift, a division of Dover Industries
    Inventors: Steven D. Green, Lawrence Chase, Larry D. O'Cull, Michael R. O'Cull
  • Patent number: 6983196
    Abstract: A vehicle lift has an electronic control which is functional to control the raising and lowering of the lift and to enable the display of a variety of information regarding the operation of the lift. The electronic control includes control logic which generates an operation fault indication signal based on the application of predetermined criteria to operation conditions, with concomitant display of data indicative of the operation fault indication signal accompanied by inhibiting or altering raising or lowering of the lift. The electronic control also includes maintenance control logic which generates a maintenance condition indication signal to enable generation of maintenance notice data. A vehicle service system includes a network placing controls of such vehicle lifts in communication with each other or a central computer processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven D. Green, Larry D. O'Cull, Sarah A. Cox, Michael R. O'Cull, Douglas J. Brown, Cory J. Powell
  • Patent number: 6820860
    Abstract: An automotive vehicle body lifter jacking system is described which raises a vehicle' body at selective heights from its frame for restoration and repairs. The body lifter has a rectangular frame made of square steel tubing having threaded apertures at each corner. Elongated, threaded jacking bolts are secured to each respective aperture for selectively lifting a body from the frame of a vehicle. The jacking system is actuated mechanically, hydraulically or electrically to raise the lifter. Wheels are secured to the bottom of each corner for mobility and maneuverability the lifting structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Inventor: Jimmy V. Gordon
  • Patent number: 6772984
    Abstract: A method for stabilizing a roof-resting vehicle includes the steps of leaning one or more, buttress stands against a rear fender of the vehicle, passing a chain under a rear end of the vehicle from one of the buttress stands to another, tightening the slack from the chain by pulling the chain-grab end fittings towards the fenders at the vehicle undercarriage, using a ratchet strap, restraining the chain from sliding of the rear end of the vehicle by attaching a ratchet strap to the chain near a trunk lid of the vehicle, and passing the chain up to the vehicle undercarriage in front of a wheel assembly of the vehicle, attaching a ratchet strap at a base of the one or more buttress stands and tightening, and placing wedges in front of the opposite end of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Inventor: Cris E. Pasto
  • Patent number: 6756547
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method for lifting and lowering equipment. In a preferred embodiment, the equipment is lifted by attaching a plurality of equipment adapters to the equipment, attaching a jack assembly to each of the plurality of equipment adapters, lifting the equipment by simultaneously raising the jack assemblies, moving the transport under the equipment and lowering the equipment onto the transport. The inventive method may be modified to include an additional process of weighing the equipment before lowering the equipment by measuring the amount of force required to hold the equipment in an elevated position. To practice the inventive method, the present invention also provides an apparatus that includes a plurality of equipment adapters and a plurality of jack assemblies, wherein each of the plurality of jack adapter assemblies is configured for removable connection to a corresponding equipment adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Inventor: Howard Lefler
  • Patent number: 6726247
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for retracting a support leg includes a telescoping inner leg member contained in an outer leg member. A spring-loaded pin engages the inner leg member. To lower the leg, the spring-loaded pin is removed allowing the inner leg member to extend to a desired position. When in the desired position, the spring-loaded pin is released and the pin reengages the inner leg member. To raise the inner leg member, the spring-loaded pin is removed until a slidable trip member falls. The slidable trip member then blocks the spring-loaded pin from reengaging the inner leg member. The inner leg member is raised, the trip member lifted, and the inner leg member secured in a proper position for travel. The inner leg member can be raised by a cable attached to the inner leg member to allow one-handed operation of the entire system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Inventor: Leon J. Snyder
  • Patent number: 6622989
    Abstract: A lift assembly for raising and lowering a load includes a first member, which is adapted for resting on a reference surface, and a second member, which defines a support surface for supporting a load. The lift assembly also includes a drive assembly, which selectively moves the second member relative to the first member from an initial position to a final position to raise or lower the second member relative to the first member. The drive assembly is adapted to move the second member from the initial position at a progressively increasing speed to an intermediate position and after which at a progressively decreasing speed until the second member is moved to the final position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Rapistan Systems Advertising Corp.
    Inventor: Ricardo N. Schiesser
  • Patent number: 6608262
    Abstract: An aircraft load cell shoring for placing a wing with an aircraft engine attached to the wing in an unloaded condition and for use with a load cell mounted on an aircraft jack. The aircraft load cell shoring includes a load cell adapter and a shoring contour assembly. The load cell adapter is able to be disposed above the load cell. The shoring contour assembly is an assembly for supporting an aircraft engine, and has a shoring contour assembly bottom portion, and a fixed receptacle located at the shoring contour assembly bottom portion. The load cell adapter communicates with the fixed receptacle. The fixed receptacle is located such that the aircraft jack is aligned with the center of gravity of the engine and enclosed part of the wing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Robert J. Eiswerth, M. Bruce Keen, Larry D. Peterson, Alan M. Saferstein, Rick P. Strickland
  • Patent number: 6533246
    Abstract: A clamping apparatus is provided with a shoe mountable on a work surface, and a clamp having a foot adapted for removable engagement with the shoe. Also provided is a method of clamping a workpiece in a fixed location with respect to a work surface including mounting a shoe on the work surface, providing a clamp with a foot and a clamping head, where the foot is adapted for removable engagement with the shoe, engaging the shoe and the foot, and clamping the workpiece between the clamping head and the work surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. Hulligan