Riding Attachment Patents (Class 280/32.7)
  • Patent number: 10780759
    Abstract: A sulky apparatus for use behind self-propelled operator-controlled machines is provided. The apparatus includes a riding platform on which the operator stands, configured with a suspension system for absorption of shock and reduced impact on the body of the operator. The suspension system comprises one or more compression springs and is configured for dual adjustment, wherein the operator may adjust the spring tension directly by adjusting the compression of the spring coils or select pivot points on the sulky for control over the amount of load absorbed by the spring coils. The sulky apparatus may be connected to a self-propelled, operator-controlled machine by way of a boom system that attaches to the sulky apparatus at one end and the machine at the other. The sulky apparatus provides a significant benefit to the rider by way of suspension system capable of absorbing shocks to the rider, fitted within a limited space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Inventor: Steve R. Houston
  • Patent number: 10137921
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an electric stroller and provides an electric stroller which is enabled to driven a stroller with an electric board and makes the electric board be folded to be kept and moved so as to more effectively use the stroller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2018
    Inventor: Sang Min Lee
  • Patent number: 10112645
    Abstract: A traveling vehicle including a traveling machine body supported by a pair of left and right driving wheels; a pair of left motor and the right motor configured to independently drive the driving wheels; a riding part disposed behind the traveling machine body and connected to the traveling machine body, and configured to enable riding of a worker; a handle connected to the traveling machine body so as to be swingable left and right with respect to the traveling machine body; a plurality of load sensors for detecting a forward and backward weight shift of the worker who is riding on the riding part; a rotation angle sensor for detecting a leftward and rightward swinging operation amount of the handle; and a controller for controlling operation of the left and right motors based on detection values by the plurality of load sensors and the rotation angle sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2018
    Assignee: KUBOTA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hirokazu Ito, Kazuo Koike, Yoshikazu Togoshi
  • Patent number: 9661802
    Abstract: The article of manufacture is a sulky with a unique fender. The fender has an opening with a door place over the tire. On one end of the opening is a hinge that is attached to one end of door. At the other end of the door and opening is a latching assembly. This enable the door to be closed and latched during mowing and to be easily opened when the operator wishes to clean the debris that has collected between the tire and the fender. The latching assembly is an over center draw latch consists of a hook attached to a pivotally mounted lever. The pivotally mounted lever is attached to the fender. On the door is an opening into which the hook is designed to fit. When debris builds between the fender and the tire the operator stops the sulky and opens the door for cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2017
    Inventor: James Seliga
  • Patent number: 9587916
    Abstract: A weaponry target mechanism has a base, an arm pivotally connected to the base to pivot about a lower arm axis, a platform pivotally connected to the arm to pivot about a target axis, an elongated target attached to the platform, a drive mechanism connected to the base at a first connection location and the platform at a second connection location, wherein the platform is movable with respect to the base such that the target assumes an upright position in which the target is in a first pivotal orientation and a dropped position in which the target is in a second pivotal orientation pivotally offset from the first pivotal orientation; and wherein the platform is rotationally moveable with respect to the base such that the platform is parallel to the base in the upright position and the platform is not parallel to the base in the dropped position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: BIRCHWOOD LIMITED
    Inventor: Blair Medford Burtan
  • Patent number: 9540058
    Abstract: Sulky apparatus for use behind a self-propelled operator controlled machine such as lawn mowers that includes a sulky riding platform, a sulky boom having an inner end and an outer end for connecting the sulky riding platform to the self-propelled machine that is to tow the sulky riding platform, a pivotal connecting system for pivotally connecting the sulky riding platform to the outer end of the sulky boom and an adjusting system for adjusting the pivotal connecting system. The adjusting system for adjusting the pivotal connecting system is particularly useful in properly connecting the sulky apparatus to self-propelled machines that have different height frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2017
    Inventor: Steve R. Houston
  • Patent number: 9167748
    Abstract: Sulky apparatus including an operator standing platform, a tire and associated wheel rim for allowing the operator standing platform to move along the ground, a wheel well associated with the operator standing platform for housing the wheel rim and tire in an operational position, a tire axle having two end portions located in the center of the wheel rim, the two end portions being configured to rest in the bottoms of depressions located in the walls of the wheel well, a pivoting U-shaped axle locking member located at the top of the wheel well where the locking member can engage the upper surfaces of the end portions of the axle and secure the axle and the associated tire in the operational position in the wheel well, a pivotal cover covering the wheel well for allowing access to the wheel well and locking means associated with the wheel well and the cover for locking the pivoting U-shaped axle locking member and the cover in place in their operational positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2015
    Inventor: Steve R. Houston
  • Patent number: 9066468
    Abstract: A pivotable operator support platform is provided for a standing lawn mower. The pivotable operator support platform is part of a platform assembly. A deck lift foot lever is actuable by the foot of an operator on the support platform to raise the cutting deck of the lawn mower. The deck lift foot lever is pivotable with the operator support platform, and about the same pivot axis, between an operating position and a stored position. A latching assembly automatically deflects as the operator support platform is moved into the stored position, and is biased to engage a latch pin to retain the operator support platform in the stored position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Assignee: Ariens Company
    Inventors: Brian Zwieg, Paul Ferrier, Daniel J. Gindt
  • Publication number: 20150084294
    Abstract: A stroller accessory. The stroller accessory includes a seat where the seat is configured to allow a user to sit. The stroller accessory also includes one or more wheels. The one or more wheels are attached to the seat and are configured to allow the stroller accessory to move. The stroller accessory further includes an attachment, wherein the attachment is configured to attach the stroller accessory to a stroller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2014
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventors: Jared Clanton, Steven Batson, Chris Batson
  • Patent number: 8657303
    Abstract: A scooter 1 is disclosed that may be linked to a child buggy or perambulator 100. A linking mechanism 200 is also disclosed for releasably linking the scooter 1 to the child buggy 100 thereby allowing the scooter 1 to be used as a scooter 1 or instead, to be linked to a buggy 100 and used in a linked configuration. The combination of a child buggy 100 and scooter 1 using the linking mechanism 200 is described along with a method of use of the mechanism 200.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Phil and Teds Design Limited
    Inventors: James Richard Andrews, Andrew Douglas Mawson, Campbell Douglas Gower
  • Publication number: 20140015209
    Abstract: A foldable passenger carrier, such as an infant stroller, comprising a carrier frame with a frame body and at least one longitudinal frame element comprising a folding hinge with a locking mechanism in the folding hinge. The carrier further comprises a push-handle which is connected to the upper part of the frame body and comprises a handle adjustment hinge with a locking mechanism. The push-handle is foldable towards the forward part of the frame body at the handle adjustment hinge and the longitudinal frame element is foldable in a direction towards the lower part of the frame body at the folding hinge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2012
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Applicant: THULE CHILD TRANSPORT SYSTEMS LTD
    Inventors: Wesley Justin FLEMING, David ANDERSON, Daniel W. BRITTON, Garner Elliot MESZAROS, Roger Wayne MCPHERSON
  • Publication number: 20130307234
    Abstract: A trailer a method for transporting a person adapted to be attached to a mobility scooter. The trailer includes a platform base supported on at least two wheels, at least one seat on the platform base, and a hitching assembly to attach the platform base to the motorized scooter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2012
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Inventor: Judy Ann Anders
  • Publication number: 20130241163
    Abstract: Narrow harvest vehicles have been invented to make farm labor more attractive, to enable enhanced productivity of workers, and to make possible more complete usage of the land. A low seating position is provided for a worker. The width of the vehicle is approximately the same width as the seated worker, enabling vehicle use with narrowly spaced row crops. The wheel set is configured for both maximum stability and efficient operation on soft surfaces, using large drum wheels that maximize the footprint area. Apparatus is provided to enable gathering, collecting, and transporting produce in a manner consistent with operation in a narrow row space that avoids loading said vehicle in a destabilizing way and protects stacked produce from handling damage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Inventor: James K. Bullis
  • Patent number: 8528915
    Abstract: A self-propelled vehicle comprises a frame and a platform pivotally mountable to a rear portion of the vehicle frame. The platform is pivotally movable between a first position in which the platform extends generally horizontally from the rear portion of the frame to support a rider during operation of the vehicle, and a second position in which the platform is removably secured in a generally upright position adjacent the rear portion of the frame to enable walk-behind operation of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Inventor: Bruce E. Kallevig
  • Patent number: 8500139
    Abstract: A scooter 1 is disclosed that may be linked to a child buggy or perambulator 100. A linking mechanism 200 is also disclosed for releasably linking the scooter 1 to the child buggy 100 thereby allowing the scooter 1 to be used as a scooter 1 or instead, to be linked to a buggy 100 and used in a linked configuration. The combination of a child buggy 100 and scooter 1 using the linking mechanism 200 is described along with a method of use of the mechanism 200.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Phil and Teds Most Excellent Buggy Company Limited
    Inventors: James Richard Andrews, Andrew Douglas Mawson, Campbell Douglas Gower
  • Patent number: 8459371
    Abstract: An aerating device for attachment to a self-propelled lawnmower is disclosed. The device comprises a frame having a proximal end, a distal end, and a pair of sides extending between the proximal end and the distal end. An axle is mounted to the frame and extends between the sides of the frame. At least one tine assembly is mounted to the axle for rotation about a tine axis extending longitudinally through the axle. A platform is secured to the frame and extends outwardly from one of the proximal and distal ends of the frame for supporting an operator in front of or behind the at least one tine assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Inventor: Joseph E. Hoffman
  • Patent number: 8454032
    Abstract: A self-propelled lawn mower and sulky device. The self-propelled lawn mower comprises handle bars and an operator console that are positioned between the front end and rear end of the lawn mower. A securing bar and a placement bar are designed and situated an a angle to one another to appropriately position the handle bars and operator console. The sulky device comprises an operator platform, a pair of sulky arms, a pair of caster wheels, and a hitch bar. When the sulky device is mounted to the self-propelled lawn mower, a first hinge means is used for attaching the operator platform to the hitch bar, a second hinge means is used for attaching the hitch bar to the lawn mower, and a third hinge means is used for attaching the caster wheels to the sulky arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Havener Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Chris Havener
  • Patent number: 8448957
    Abstract: Sulky apparatus for use behind a self-propelled machine including sulky operator riding apparatus for supporting an operator behind a self-propelled machine that the sulky apparatus is attached to, an upward extending control column adapted to be located near the operator controls for the self-propelled machine, a deployment boom attached to the sulky operator riding apparatus for deploying the sulky operator riding apparatus having a lower portion pivotally attached to the control column for deploying and for retracting the sulky operator riding apparatus to a stored position, and sulky apparatus control apparatus for controlling the operation of the sulky apparatus deployment boom. The control apparatus includes a gas filled cylinder and a chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Inventors: Steve R. Houston, Thomas Russell Stokes, Warren David Litchfield
  • Patent number: 8286976
    Abstract: A self-propelled vehicle comprises a frame and a platform pivotally mountable to a rear portion of the vehicle frame. The platform is pivotally movable between a first position in which the platform extends generally horizontally from the rear portion of the frame to support a rider during operation of the vehicle, and a second position in which the platform is removably secured in a generally upright position adjacent the rear portion of the frame to enable walk-behind operation of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Inventor: Bruce E. Kallevig
  • Patent number: 8276922
    Abstract: A child trailer includes a body with a plurality of wheels located at the bottom thereof, a joint and a coupler. The joint is located in front of the body to adjust the angle with the body. The coupler includes a coupling dock, a pair of adjustment arms and a pair of strap holders. The coupling dock is connected to the front end of the joint. The adjustment arms are respectively connected to the left side and right side of the coupling dock. Each of the adjustment arms includes a sleeve to adjust the transverse distance and an adjustment bar to adjust the longitudinal distance. The adjustment arm also has a pivotal member hinged on the strap holder. The strap holders are fastened to a stroller to enhance steadiness and safety and improve practicality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Inventor: Chin-I Lai
  • Patent number: 8262104
    Abstract: An outdoor power equipment unit, such as a mower, includes a foot platform for supporting a standing operator who operates the unit while standing atop the foot platform. The foot platform can be pivoted upwardly from a substantially horizontal orientation into a substantially vertical, folded up orientation against the rear of the traction vehicle. A thigh pad engages against the thighs of the operator and is pivotally linked to the foot platform to pivot on the traction vehicle with the pivotal motion of the foot platform. When the foot platform is horizontal, the thigh pad is pivoted to be angled downwardly and rearwardly relative to the rear of the traction vehicle. When the foot platform is folded up, the thigh pad is pivoted inwardly relative to the rear of the traction vehicle to be sandwiched between the rear of the traction vehicle and the folded up foot platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: The Toro Company
    Inventors: Jeffrey B. Kallevig, Thomas K. Bricko
  • Publication number: 20120211954
    Abstract: A self-propelled lawn mower and sulky device. The self-propelled lawn mower comprises handle bars and an operator console that are positioned between the front end and rear end of the lawn mower. A securing bar and a placement bar are designed and situated an a angle to one another to appropriately position the handle bars and operator console. The sulky device comprises an operator platform, a pair of sulky arms, a pair of caster wheels, and a hitch bar. When the sulky device is mounted to the self-propelled lawn mower, a first hinge means is used for attaching the operator platform to the hitch bar, a second hinge means is used for attaching the hitch bar to the lawn mower, and a third hinge means is used for attaching the caster wheels to the sulky arms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2011
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Inventor: Chris Havener
  • Publication number: 20120205883
    Abstract: A self-propelled vehicle comprises a frame and a platform pivotally mountable to a rear portion of the vehicle frame. The platform is pivotally movable between a first position in which the platform extends generally horizontally from the rear portion of the frame to support a rider during operation of the vehicle, and a second position in which the platform is removably secured in a generally upright position adjacent the rear portion of the frame to enable walk-behind operation of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Inventor: Bruce E. Kallevig
  • Patent number: 8141886
    Abstract: A selectively deployable extender is provided on the rear of a platform assembly of a stand-on lawnmower so as to permit an operator to position his or her feet further from the rear wheels than would otherwise be possible in order to increase operator comfort and/or to improve traction and/or maneuverability. By making the platform selectively deployable as opposed to simply providing a longer platform, the length of the machine can be reduced for storage and transport, and the risk of making damaging contact with an obstruction or with the ground while traveling up a hill is reduced. The extender may, for instance, be a plate or similar device pivotally attached to a rear end of a main platform and the main platform can be resiliently mounted to or at least partially isolated from a frame of the stand-on lawnmower.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Metalcraft of Mayville, Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Sugden, Matthew J. Mugan
  • Patent number: 8087683
    Abstract: A mobile transport has a frame on which two wheels are mounted. A basket type container is permanently affixed to a portion of the frame, which also includes a foot rest section for child passengers. A receptacle post is provided which can support either a bicycle type seat for transporting a child or a container which doubles the carrying capacity of the transport. The frame of the transport also includes a frame extension, removeably attached to the frame, with a towing hitch for connection to a bicycle. Upon removal of the frame extension, the transport can be used as a manual cart, with the upper end of the frame providing the handle for pushing or pulling the cart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Inventor: Daryl I. James
  • Patent number: 8079605
    Abstract: A self-propelled vehicle comprises a frame and a platform pivotally mountable to a rear portion of the vehicle frame. The platform is pivotally movable between a first position in which the platform extends generally horizontally from the rear portion of the frame to support a rider during operation of the vehicle, and a second position in which the platform is removably secured in a generally upright position adjacent the rear portion of the frame to enable walk-behind operation of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Inventor: Bruce E. Kallevig
  • Patent number: 8033552
    Abstract: A universal attachment device for attaching lawn care equipment including but not limited to leaf catchers, plug-core aerators, utility carts, and fertilizer spreaders to the sulky of a commercial walk-behind mower, the attachment device features a mounting shaft; a vertical pivot mount disposed on the first end of the mounting shaft for engaging a mounting plate disposed on the sulky; and a vertically oriented mounting channel disposed on the second end of the mounting shaft, the mounting channel functions to a base attachment shaft disposed on the piece of lawn care equipment or the lawn care equipment directly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Inventors: Sherman L. Jacobs, Sandra M. Jacobs
  • Patent number: 8006786
    Abstract: A passenger standing platform for attachment to a mobility vehicle that provides improved support for the rider, increased weightload, and easy mountability and storage capability, The unit has a paddle shape platform base with 3 fully rotating caster assemblies attached to its underside in a triangular configuration and a non-skid mat attached to its obverse side. The platform base is hingedly attached to a mount plate that connects to the mobility vehicle, and is retained in a non-use generally vertical position off the ground by a pair of spaced coil springs attached at opposite ends to the mount plate and to the platform base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: Judi Chapman
  • Patent number: 7980569
    Abstract: Operator platform assemblies for use with the working vehicles, e.g., skid steer loaders, and vehicles incorporating the same. The platform assemblies may, in some embodiments, include an arm assembly that attaches to a rear portion of the vehicle and extends rearwardly therefrom as a cantilever member. The platform assembly may pivot from this deployed position to a storage position by pivoting upwardly about a pivot axis proximate the vehicle. A platform is, in some embodiments, pivotally attached to the arm assembly so that the platform may pivot relative to the arm assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: The Toro Company
    Inventors: John P. Azure, Tanner L. Erickson, Barry L. Hentges, David A. Murray, Greg L. Lawrence
  • Publication number: 20110169236
    Abstract: A floor maintenance apparatus which allows an operator to ride in a standing position or walk behind the floor maintenance machine is described. The floor maintenance apparatus comprises a floor maintenance machine and a sulky. The sulky includes a first attaching portion. The sulky further includes an adjustable neck attached to the first attaching portion. The adjustable neck includes a first end portion and a second end portion. The sulky also includes a standing platform attached to the adjustable neck. The platform has a first portion and a second portion. At least one wheel is rotatably mounted to the first portion. Methods for storing the sulky are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2011
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Inventor: Jeffery R. Fellhauer
  • Patent number: 7971884
    Abstract: This invention is a Standing board for prams, which is fastened to a pram with fastening beams that protrude from the Standing board and that have means for fastening to the pram on their outer ends. The fastening beams (4, 5) point forward in the Standing board's normal direction of movement and are basically parallel with it. They are also adjustable in a right angle to the movement direction, mounted on the forward edge of the Standing board with their fastenings (8, 9), which have means for retaining the fastenings in their adjusted position on the Standing board (1). The fastening beams are mounted in a manner that allows them to be twisted in the fastenings for adjustment of their angle relative to the supporting area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: Joran Lundh
  • Patent number: 7971893
    Abstract: A wheelchair includes a chair member formed of a seat portion with a backrest portion vertically extending therefrom. On each of two opposing sides of the backrest is an armrest that pivots between a horizontal, deployed position when in use, and a stowed, vertical position when a patient is entering or exiting the seat. The chair is mounted on an electronics housing that includes a pair of reversible DC motors and associated gear boxes that rotate a pair of pneumatic tires. A caregiver can stand on a platform behind the chair member when operating the wheelchair. The chair's speed and direction are controlled with either of a pair of control panels. A caregiver's control panel is mounted on a steering bar attached to the rear surface of the backrest while a patient control panel is mounted on one of the armrests.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: Bobbie Dunn
  • Patent number: 7914030
    Abstract: A braking and steering assembly in a vehicle having a pushing section and a riding section. The assembly includes an upper connection post containing braking and steering components for the riding section. The upper connection post has an upper end and a lower threaded end. The assembly further includes a lower connection post containing braking and steering components for the pushing section. The lower connection post has an aperture for threadedly receiving the lower threaded end of the upper connection post. The assembly also includes a rotatable front knob fixed to the upper end of the upper connection post. Rotatably tightening the front knob connects the lower end of the upper connection post with the upper end of the lower connection post. Braking and steering in the riding section controls braking and steering in the pushing section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Soma Cycle, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Ehrenreich, Joel Hoag, Brian Rhee
  • Patent number: 7866428
    Abstract: The golf cart has a main frame supported by driven rear wheels. A front axle with steered front wheels is pivotally attached to the main frame. A rear seat is pivotally attached to the main frame. The rear seat is pivotable to positions in which a physically challenged golfer can swing a club while supported by the rear seat and hit a ball on the left side, the right side or to the rear of the cart. A front seat is on a front seat post clamped to the frame. A tiller is pivotally attached to the front post. A drive sprocket is fixed to the tiller. A driven sprocket is journaled on the post. A roller chain is trained around the drive sprocket and the driven sprocket. A tie rod control arm is fixed to the driven sprocket and connected to the steered front wheels by tie rods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Inventor: Mitchell R. Oliver
  • Patent number: 7743840
    Abstract: In accordance with the present invention an aerating device for attachment to a self-propelled lawnmower is provided. The device comprises a frame having a proximal end, a distal end, and a pair of sides extending between the proximal end and the distal end. An axle is mounted to the frame and extends between the sides of the frame. At least one tine assembly is mounted to the axle for rotation about a tine axis extending longitudinally through the axle. A platform is secured to the frame and extends outwardly from one of the proximal and distal ends of the frame for supporting an operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Inventor: Joseph E. Hoffman
  • Patent number: 7712751
    Abstract: An improved lawn mower sulky comprises platform 10, hitch support arm 20, first stub axle 40, first axle A-frame 41, first damper assembly 60, second stub axle 70, second axle A-frame 71, and second damper assembly 80.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Inventor: Renn Allen Beal
  • Patent number: 7694759
    Abstract: A fleet of lift trucks includes a lift truck for walk-behind operation without a stand-on platform and a lift truck for stand-on operation with a stand-on platform. Each lift truck of the fleet of lift trucks has a vehicle frame, to which a traction unit, a lifting device, and, optionally, a stand-on platform can be fastened. At least one lift truck of the fleet of lift trucks without a stand-on platform and at least one lift truck of the fleet of lift trucks with a stand-on platform (6, 8) have the identical vehicle frame. Each vehicle frame also has fastening elements for the optional fastening of a housing wall (5), a folding stand-on platform (6), and/or a fixed stand-on platform (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Linde Material Handling GmbH
    Inventors: Olivier Frechet, Eric Goguelet
  • Publication number: 20090309327
    Abstract: A wheelchair has a first frame unit including a first wheel unit, a second frame unit including a second wheel unit, and a quick release unit including an axle that is connected rotatably to one of the first and second frame units. The axle is rotatable from a retaining position, where separation of the axle from the other one of the first and second frame units is arrested, to a releasing position, where separation of the axle from the other one of the first and second frame units is permitted. One of the first and second frame units is further provided with a third wheel unit, and the other one of the first and second frame units is further provided with a seat unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2008
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Applicant: P & F Brother Industrial Corporation
    Inventor: Chih-Yung Huang
  • Publication number: 20090302562
    Abstract: A stand-on riding mower has a support platform at the rear thereof for supporting an operator who stands during operation of the mower. The support platform is pivotally connected to the traction frame of the mower by a suspension that includes pivotal support plates at each side of the platform. At least one spring is arranged to push against the pivotal support plates in a direction causing the platform to rise such that the weight of the operator atop the platform causes the platform to lower until increasing biasing force in the spring balances the operator's weight. The spring ensures that impact shocks and the like on the traction frame of the mower are cushioned before reaching the operator's platform. In addition, the operator's platform is pivotal relative to the support plates to allow the operator's platform to be disposed in both a vertical stowed position and a horizontal deployed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2009
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventors: Jeffrey B. Kallevig, Jesse R. Gamble, David J. Scherbring
  • Patent number: 7624996
    Abstract: A walk-behind lawn mower includes at least one of: (a) a latch assembly for receiving a folded-up sulky for storage during transport and the like; (b) inboard mounted control rods extending downwardly from a handle control assembly area of the mower, so that actuator shafts for the hydraulic pumps are located on inboard sides of the pumps so as to oppose one another; (c) a handle control assembly for allowing the mower to be operated in an efficient manner with operator comfort during turns and the like; and/or (d) a pump lock-out system including a lever(s) for actuating both a braking force to be applied to at least one wheel of the mower and a pump lock-out system for causing the pumps to be locked in a neutral position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Wright Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: James D. Velke, William R. Wright
  • Patent number: 7611155
    Abstract: A ride-on operator platform or sulky is used in connection with a small self-propelled loader to provide a support for an operator. The operator platform is pivotally mounted to the loader about a generally horizontal axis, and has a rear support engaging the surface over which the loader is operating to maintain the operator platform at a desired position relative to the surface. The upward pivoting of rear portions of the operator platform is limited by stop members, and substantial downward pivoting is permitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Clark Equipment Company
    Inventor: Mark F. Bares
  • Patent number: 7581737
    Abstract: The invention relates to a wheeled platform for coupling to a pushchair, in particular for transporting a standing child, the platform comprising a footplate (2) provided with wheels (3) and at least one coupling arm (4) having a first end (6) fitted to the footplate and a second end (10) adapted to co-operate with means (12, 13) for securing it to the pushchair, wherein the first end (6) of the coupling arm (4) is received directly in an orifice (7) of the footplate (2), without any intermediate part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: Equipbaby (UK) Limited
    Inventor: Benoït Cousin
  • Patent number: 7527285
    Abstract: A sulky for attachment to a self-propelled machine, e.g., lawn mower. Sulkies in accordance with embodiments of the present invention may attach to, and detach from, the lawn mower with operator-actuatable, spring-loaded pins. The sulky may further pivot, relative to the mower, from an operating position to a storage position. A spring-loaded latch may be used to operatively secure the sulky relative to the mower frame when the sulky is in the storage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: Exmark Manufacturing Company, Incorporated
    Inventor: Tommy Joe Vachal
  • Publication number: 20090096178
    Abstract: An improved lawn mower sulky comprises platform 10, hitch support arm 20, first stub axle 40, first axle A-frame 41, first damper assembly 60, second stub axle 70, second axle A-frame 71, and second damper assembly 80.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2007
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Inventor: RENN ALLEN BEAL
  • Publication number: 20090072504
    Abstract: A self-propelled vehicle comprises a frame and a platform pivotally mountable to a rear portion of the vehicle frame. The platform is pivotally movable between a first position in which the platform extends generally horizontally from the rear portion of the frame to support a rider during operation of the vehicle, and a second position in which the platform is removably secured in a generally upright position adjacent the rear portion of the frame to enable walk-behind operation of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2008
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Inventor: Bruce E. Kallevig
  • Patent number: 7493711
    Abstract: A ride-on snow blower is described that includes a cab for housing and protecting a rider of the snow blower from the elements, a seat, a door, cab windows, a front frame section, an adjustable snow chute operable for flexible snow disposal, a motor, a motor powered auger for transporting snow to the snow chute, rear wheels located generally under the seat, front wheels located in general proximity to the motor, rear wheel steering mechanisms, drive mechanisms for locomotion of the snow blower in a desired direction, and a power source to power electrical components of the snow blower.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Inventors: Ronald Michael Gautreau, Uclise Joseph LeBlanc
  • Publication number: 20090005196
    Abstract: A game having a floor, a plurality of walls rising up from said floor defining a play area, a game piece, at least one target positioned proximate the plurality of walls, including a plurality of multi-planar apertures operatively arranged to accept the game piece, and a vehicle, operatively arranged to be driven by a player, the vehicle having a bumper positioned circumferentially about a base of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2007
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Applicant: Cyber Sport Manufacturing LLC
    Inventors: James J. Kessler, Stephen J. Kessler, Jason E. Bock, Michael J. Palumbo, Joseph Scinta
  • Patent number: 7458588
    Abstract: A self-propelled vehicle comprises a frame and a platform pivotally mountable to a rear portion of the vehicle frame. The platform is pivotally movable between a first position in which the platform extends generally horizontally from the rear portion of the frame to support a rider during operation of the vehicle, and a second position in which the platform is removably secured in a generally upright position-adjacent the rear portion of the frame to enable walk-behind operation of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Inventor: Bruce E. Kallevig
  • Publication number: 20080197588
    Abstract: Operator platform assemblies for use with the working vehicles, e.g., skid steer loaders, and vehicles incorporating the same. The platform assemblies may, in some embodiments, include an arm assembly that attaches to a rear portion of the vehicle and extends rearwardly therefrom as a cantilever member. The platform assembly may pivot from this deployed position to a storage position by pivoting upwardly about a pivot axis proximate the vehicle. A platform is, in some embodiments, pivotally attached to the arm assembly so that the platform may pivot relative to the arm assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2008
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Applicant: The Toro Company
    Inventors: John P. Azure, Tanner L. Erickson, Barry L. Hentges, David A. Murray, Greg L. Lawrence
  • Patent number: 7364169
    Abstract: A walk-behind lawn mower includes at least one of: (a) a latch assembly for receiving a folded-up sulky for storage during transport and the like; (b) inboard mounted control rods extending downwardly from a handle control assembly area of the mower, so that actuator shafts for the hydraulic pumps are located on inboard sides of the pumps so as to oppose one another; (c) a handle control assembly for allowing the mower to be operated in an efficient manner with operator comfort during turns and the like; and/or (d) a pump lock-out system including a lever(s) for actuating both a braking force to be applied to at least one wheel of the mower and a pump lock-out system for causing the pumps to be locked in a neutral position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: Wright Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: James D. Velke, William R. Wright