Ramp-type Truck Patents (Class 414/430)
  • Patent number: 11918851
    Abstract: A steering assembly for a mounted bicycle is disclosed herein. The steering assembly includes a support base and at least one omnidirectional roller assembly extending from a bottom surface thereof. The at least one omnidirectional roller assembly is operatively disposed in direct contact with a ground surface and is structured to facilitate movement of the support base along the ground surface in a plurality of different arcuate and linear paths to accommodate varying trail measurements of a bicycle. The varying trail measurements of the bicycle are defined by varying angles of the bicycle relative to the ground surface during operative use of the steering assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2024
    Inventor: Daniel J. McAllister
  • Patent number: 11505403
    Abstract: A vehicle system includes a refuse vehicle, a carry can, and an electric energy system. The refuse vehicle includes a chassis, a body assembly coupled to the chassis, and a lift assembly. The body assembly defines a vehicle refuse compartment. The carry can is selectively couplable to the lift assembly. The carry can includes a container defining a container refuse compartment and an articulating collection arm coupled the container. The articulating collection arm has an actuator positioned to facilitate manipulating the articulating collection arm. The electric energy system is at least one of positioned on the refuse vehicle or positioned on the carry can. The electric energy system is configured to facilitate operating the actuator of the articulating collection arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2022
    Assignee: Oshkosh Corporation
    Inventors: Joshua D. Rocholl, Derek A. Wente, John T. Kellander, Cody D. Clifton, Vincent Hoover, Zachary L. Klein, Clinton T. Weckwerth, Skylar A. Wachter
  • Patent number: 11173939
    Abstract: A dolly includes a deck having a support area. A plurality of wheels support the deck. A peripheral lip projects upward relative to the support area of the deck and extends at least partially about a periphery of the deck. The peripheral lip includes a ramped portion. A stack of bakery trays can be tipped and slid onto the dolly over the ramped portion of the peripheral lip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2021
    Assignee: Rehrig Pacific Company
    Inventor: Jon P. Hassell
  • Patent number: 11084164
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a device to assist in confined space entry. The device includes a housing including a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, a first end positioned between the top surface and the bottom surface, and a second end opposite the first end and positioned between the top surface and the bottom surface. The device also includes a channel in the housing extending from the bottom surface in a direction towards the top surface, wherein the channel is between the first end and the second end. The device also includes a first roller rotatably coupled to the first end of the housing via a first pin, and a second roller rotatably coupled to the second end of the housing via a second pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2021
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Rebecca Cook
  • Patent number: 10843617
    Abstract: A steerable carriage for moving a wheeled object comprising at least one engagement device (3) configured to engage with and elevate a wheel (5) of the wheeled object off the ground such that the wheeled object can be moved upon displacement of the carriage by transmitting a propulsion force from the carriage to the wheeled object via the at least one engagement device, wherein the at least one engagement device comprises: —a support device (12), —an actuating device (13) movable with respect to the support device such as to cause the wheel to roll forward onto the support device and be held by the support device and the actuating device, wherein the support device comprises: —a stopping member (18) movable between a folded position and a stopping position in which it is configured to stop forward motion of the wheel, and —an activation member (23) configured to cause the stopping member to move from the folded position to the stopping position when the wheel is rolled onto the support device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2020
    Assignee: Stringo AB
    Inventor: Micha Dombrowski
  • Patent number: 10688531
    Abstract: A shuttle trolley for a parcel-sorting logistics center, which trolley has a deck for carrying a non-standard parcel to be sorted, wherein the deck has a central portion in the shape of a trough of V-shaped cross-section, and two side portions on either side of the central portion and that both extend in the same horizontal plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Assignee: SOLYSTIC
    Inventors: Emmanuel Miette, Luc Chirol
  • Patent number: 10179532
    Abstract: A front tow extended saddle configured for mounting a vehicle to a towing vehicle and a method of towing a vehicle using the front tow extended saddle are provided. The front tow extended saddle includes front, middle, and rear portions, with the front and rear portions extending along different planes. A protective cover extends along the front tow extended saddle and is supported above the wheels of the towing vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2019
    Assignee: ATC Transportation LLC
    Inventor: Donald W. Schuettenberg
  • Patent number: 9846918
    Abstract: An electrical vehicle (EV) rescue vehicle includes a mobile platform, which further includes a winch and a ramp. The mobile platform of the EV rescue vehicle is deployable for retrieving a disabled EV (a “rescued vehicle”) thereon with the winch and the ramp and for transportation of the disabled EV. A charging unit is associated with said mobile platform for connecting and charging of the disabled EV, either on a fixed location or during transport. A systems analysis module can be included with the system for testing a functionality of systems and components of the disabled EV and providing results of the testing to customers. The mobile platform can be provided as an EV rescue vehicle in a form of a trailer pulled by another vehicle or integrated with another vehicle (e.g., a truck). The EV rescue vehicle can also carry passengers associated with the disabled EV when the disabled EV is being transported, charged, and/or analyzed by the EV rescue vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2017
    Assignee: Mesa Digital, LLC
    Inventors: Luis M. Ortiz, Kermit D. Lopez
  • Patent number: 8950760
    Abstract: A mobile and adjustable dolly having an adjustable “V” shaped dolly frame. The dolly frame comprises first and second pivotal frame members rotationally coupled to a central support frame member forming a “V” shape. The central support frame member comprises a series of angle maintaining features for securing each frame member at any of a plurality of angled configurations. A distal caster, having a wheel rotation disposed therewith, is assembled to a distal end of each frame member and a central caster is assembled to a pivotal region of the dolly frame. A vehicle support subassembly is disposed upon and extends upward from the each respective frame member. An elongated handle assembly extends from the central caster. The elongated handle assembly further comprises a wheel chock, which removably engages with the central wheel when subjected to the weight of the elongated handle assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Inventor: Steven S. Davis
  • Patent number: 8777544
    Abstract: A storage means and transportation method for at least one (1) motorcycle is herein disclosed, comprising a platform plate supported at corner locations by rotating casters. A vertical edging is provided along the long edges of the platform to prevent the motorcycle from rolling off. At least one (1) handles is provided along the long edge to aid in manipulating each motorcycle along a floor surface for shipping or storage. At each end portion of the platform are fold-down ramps to allow each motorcycle to be rolled on and off of the platform. Each ramp comprises a support to anchor the platform against the floor surface by lifting the casters slightly off of the floor. Once the platform is secured in this fashion, each motorcycle can be rolled on and off the platform safely. Each motorcycle is covered by a fiberglass hard cover which is attached thereto the platform for long-term storage and/or shipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Inventor: Robert H. Carpenter
  • Patent number: 8651501
    Abstract: A mobile and adjustable dolly having an adjustable “V” shaped dolly frame. The dolly frame comprises first and second pivotal frame members rotationally coupled to a central support frame member forming a “V” shape. The central support frame member comprises a series of angle maintaining features for securing each frame member at any of a plurality of angled configurations. A distal caster, having a wheel rotation disposed therewith, is assembled to a distal end of each frame member and a central caster is assembled to a pivotal region of the dolly frame. A vehicle support subassembly is disposed upon and extends upward from the each respective frame member. An elongated handle assembly extends from the central caster. The elongated handle assembly further comprises a wheel chock, which removably engages with the central wheel when subjected to the weight of the elongated handle assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventor: Steven Davis
  • Patent number: 8475108
    Abstract: A system for moving a large object is provided that includes one or more wheels in contact with a ground surface and two pedals coupled to at least one wheel such that a downward force on at least one of the pedals by an operator seated on the system causes the wheels to move in a forward direction. The system further includes a gearing element that includes a gearbox that translates the downward force to the wheels. The system also includes a loading element that receives at least a portion of the large object such that it can be transported when the wheels move in the forward direction, where the large object weighs at least 300 pounds. In more specific embodiments, the system includes a steering component that includes one of the wheels, where the steering component allows a direction of the system to be guided by the operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Castlewood Medical Technologies LLC
    Inventor: Baron L. Hamman
  • Patent number: 8448972
    Abstract: A towing device for towing an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) behind a vehicle featuring two parallel support bars for cradling rear wheels of the ATV; a first wheel connected to the first ends of the support bars via a first wheel axle connector and a second wheel connected to the second ends of the support bars via second wheel axle connector; eye rings disposed on the support bars adapted to receive ends of straps, the straps being for securing rear wheels of the ATV; an undercarriage bracket pivotally attached to the first support bar for supporting and securing the rear axle of the ATV; and a curved towing arm having a ball hitch tongue for connecting the towing arm to a hitch of the vehicle and two connecting brackets for engaging and securing a front axle of the ATV.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Inventors: David P. Belcher, Paul Belcher
  • Patent number: 8091905
    Abstract: A motorcycle low-profile positioning creeper allows a medium to large motorcycle to be easily mounted on the positioning creeper and easily moved to any desired position on a horizontal surface such as a showroom floor or storage area. The positioning creeper comprises a low slung H-frame body and four rotatable wheels. The low slung H-frame body is a plate and comprises four corners and four protrusions. The four protrusions protrude upward and outward respectively from the corners and are separated from adjacent longitudinal protrusions a distance greater than a motorcycle tire width. The four rotatable wheels are mounted respectively under the four protrusions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Inventor: Tung-Ming Chen
  • Patent number: 8052159
    Abstract: A motorcycle side kickstand dolly used with one or two conventional wheel dollies that allows a medium to large motorcycle to be mounted easily on the dollies and moved easily to any desired position on a horizontal surface. The motorcycle side kickstand dolly in accordance with the present invention comprises an H-frame support panel, a side kickstand brace and four wheels. The H-frame support panel comprises a low-slung panel and four protrusions. The low-slung panel has four corners. The protrusions are formed respectively on the corners and protrude up and out from the corners. The side kickstand brace is mounted on the low-slung panel between two adjacent protrusions and has an upper edge, a recess and a strengthening lip. The recess is formed downward from the upper edge. The strengthening lip is formed on and protrudes transversely from the upper edge. The wheels are mounted rotatably respectively under the protrusions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Inventor: Tung Ming Chen
  • Patent number: 8002122
    Abstract: A vehicle wheel rotation apparatus including a base defining first and second flanges, first and second rollers cooperatively supported between the flanges and defining a longitudinal axis of rotation, a stationary loading bar cooperatively supported between the first and second flanges, and a non-skid bottom surface associated with the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Inventor: William Robert Kniegge
  • Patent number: 7988402
    Abstract: The tire-handling device (10) is a compact, lightweight tool for carriage within a motor vehicle trunk or storage compartment to facilitate handling of a tire (T) during a tire change or similar operation. The device includes a tire support cradle (30) supported by opposed vertically adjustable handles (32). The handles (32) and cradle (30) therebetween may be adjusted to position the cradle (30) beneath a tire (T) on a raised axle during a tire change, or for aligning a fresh tire with the wheel mounting studs of the wheel hub. Two mutually opposed tire support belt rollers are disposed within the cradle (30). A tire support belt extends between the rollers, allowing a tire (T) resting thereon to be rotated for alignment with the mounting studs of the vehicle wheel hub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Inventor: Sky A. Adams
  • Patent number: 7914247
    Abstract: A wheel trap assembly for receiving and retaining a wheel of a wheeled support structure is advantageously provided. The wheel trap assembly generally includes a frame and a wheel receiving structure that is pivotably supported within the frame, a wheel received upon the wheel receiving structure being shifted, with pivoting of the wheel receiving structure with respect to the frame, to a wheel landing surface supported by the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Nu Star, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter W. Schuchardt
  • Patent number: 7845894
    Abstract: A shipping container for a product mounted on casters, weighing on the order of about 150 to 300 pounds and including a box shaped housing. The shipping container comprises a base. A pair of elongated, parallel disposed and spaced apart support members are fixedly mounted on the top of the base. Each support member includes a block of foam material fixedly mounted onto the base and having a tapered front end and a rear end. A strip of low friction material is fixedly mounted on top of the block of foam material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Inventors: Randall Douglas Dickinson, Patrick Joseph Horan
  • Publication number: 20100202862
    Abstract: A vehicle wheel rotation apparatus including a base defining first and second flanges, first and second rollers cooperatively supported between the flanges and defining a longitudinal axis of rotation, a stationary loading bar cooperatively supported between the first and second flanges, and a non-skid bottom surface associated with the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2009
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Inventor: William Robert Kniegge
  • Publication number: 20100092270
    Abstract: The tire-handling device (10) is a compact, lightweight tool for carriage within a motor vehicle trunk or storage compartment to facilitate handling of a tire (T) during a tire change or similar operation. The device includes a tire support cradle (30) supported by opposed vertically adjustable handles (32). The handles (32) and cradle (30) therebetween may be adjusted to position the cradle (30) beneath a tire (T) on a raised axle during a tire change, or for aligning a fresh tire with the wheel mounting studs of the wheel hub. Two mutually opposed tire support belt rollers are disposed within the cradle (30). A tire support belt extends between the rollers, allowing a tire (T) resting thereon to be rotated for alignment with the mounting studs of the vehicle wheel hub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2008
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Inventor: Sky A. Adams
  • Publication number: 20090311083
    Abstract: A wheel trap assembly for receiving and retaining a wheel of a wheeled support structure is advantageously provided. The wheel trap assembly generally includes a frame and a wheel receiving structure that is pivotably supported within said frame, a wheel received upon the wheel receiving structure being shifted, with pivoting of the wheel receiving structure with respect to the frame, to a wheel landing surface supported by the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2009
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventor: Peter W. Schuchardt
  • Patent number: 7543830
    Abstract: An automobiles dolly is provided for connecting to a disabled vehicle in order to facilitate moving the vehicle. The dolly includes a base and a plurality of types of vehicle supports that are selectively attachable to the base. Each type of vehicle support is configured to attach to a disabled vehicle at a different support location, or is configured to accommodate a unique construction of a vehicle make or model. As such, a single dolly base can selectively be used with a plurality of different types of vehicle supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Inventor: Doug Symiczek
  • Publication number: 20090016865
    Abstract: An apparatus for wheeling a vehicle onto a truck or trailer includes a ramp. The apparatus includes a mounting portion attached to the ramp that mounts to the truck or trailer. The apparatus includes a transition piece the pivotally attaches to the ramp and contacts ground when the mounting portion is mounted to the truck or trailer. A method for placing a vehicle onto a truck or trailer includes the steps of attaching a mounting portion of a ramp to the truck or trailer. There is the step of moving a transition piece attached to the ramp so the transition piece contacts ground. There is the step of wheeling the vehicle across the transition piece, up the ramp and onto the truck or trailer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventors: Kyle G. Astor, Brett A. Latimer, Robert D. Beggs
  • Publication number: 20080292434
    Abstract: An embodiment of an assist device for maneuvering a tire and wheel assembly is provided. The device comprises a base member, a support frame configured to support a tire and wheel assembly thereon, and a sliding mechanism disposed between the base member and support frame, wherein the sliding mechanism is configured to move the support frame sideways, forward, and backward relative to the base member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2007
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Inventor: Michael John Wolterman
  • Patent number: 7311487
    Abstract: A warehouse palette rack repositioning assembly which can move a palette rack in its fully loaded state from one area of the warehouse to the other area of the warehouse. The warehouse pallet rack repositioning assembly can be installed onto a pallet rack by one workman. The assembly has a lifting unit and four wheeled skate units which provide the transportation means. The lifting unit is attached to the palette rack upright legs in the transverse direction, and a jack is used to actuate the lifting unit and lift the palette rack. The wheeled skate units are then installed underneath the palette rack uprights, with the pallet rack then being loaded onto the wheeled skate units for transportation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Inventors: Eric Crossley, Steve Crossley
  • Patent number: 7284942
    Abstract: A motorcycle dolly which rolls upon a flat surface on four lower wheels positioned in a set radius on the flat surface, the dolly including an upper surface adapted to securely receive a rear wheel of a motorcycle while remaining stationary as the rear wheel of the motorcycle is rolled onto the upper surface, the dolly rolling along the flat surface in an arc equal to the set radius, the radius being the equivalent of the distance between the flat surface contact point of a front wheel and the contact point of the rear wheel, wherein the front wheel of the motorcycle remains stationary upon the flat surface, while the rear wheel upon the upper surface of the dolly is pivotal rotated along the radius, sliding the rear of the motorcycle along the flat surface for movement to a stored position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Inventor: Keith Allen
  • Patent number: 7278647
    Abstract: A dolly includes a first platform that has a central longitudinal axis and monolithically formed outer and inner side portions extending outwardly and at an oblique angle therefrom. The side portions further extend along a length of the axis for retaining a motorcycle upon the first platform. Rectilinear arms have opposed ends wherein one end of each arm is conjoined to the first platform, and converges outwardly therefrom. A trapezoidal shaped second platform is spaced from the first platform and has a surface area less than a surface area of the first platform. The second platform is conjoined to another end of the arms such that the first and second platforms maintain a fixed spatial relationship. Coextensive casters are conjoined to the first and second platforms respectively. Mechanism is included for locking selected casters, preventing the dolly from freely articulating about a predetermined arcuate path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Inventors: Benedict Keenan, Mary Keenan
  • Patent number: 6863488
    Abstract: A foldable dolly for moving and positioning a vehicle tire assembly is formed with a rectangular base member mounted on a plurality of casters. Two wings are hinged to opposite ends of the rectangular member and have adjustable positioning members having one end attached to the base member and the other end attached to one of the wings. A plurality of bearings at least one bearing being mounted on each wing and one on the rectangular base member allow rotation of the tire assembly on the dolly and easy withdrawal of the dolly when the tire is mounted on a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Kewal K. Chopra
  • Patent number: 6860496
    Abstract: An improved dolly system including at least three dollies adjustably interconnected as a system to allow a trailer or other vehicle to be loaded therein. The dollies are adjusted for the width and the length of the trailer to mate the dollies with the wheels of the trailer. Four dollies can be adjustably connected in a system to provide a vehicle dolly system. The system can include one or more brakes and once loaded the system can be moved in any direction to facilitate the maximum use of available parking space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: First Data Corporation
    Inventors: William J. Novak, Doug S. Bailey, Fred C. Casto, Kenneth Algiene
  • Publication number: 20040156700
    Abstract: A foldable dolly for moving and positioning a vehicle tire assembly is formed with a rectangular base member mounted on a plurality of casters. Two wings are hinged to opposite ends of the rectangular member and have adjustable positioning members having one end attached to the base member and the other end attached to one of the wings. A plurality of bearings at least one bearing being mounted on each wing and one on the rectangular base member allow rotation of the tire assembly on the dolly and easy withdrawal of the dolly when the tire is mounted on a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2003
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Applicant: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Kewal K. Chopra
  • Patent number: 6729826
    Abstract: A mobile ramp having sloped and horizontal platforms is presented for elevating a vehicle from the floor to provide easy access to the underside of the vehicle to service the same. The ramp is provided with wheels that are pivotably mounted to the frame of the ramp so that they can be extended to raise the ramp off the floor for ease of mobility. The wheels are also retractable to allow the ramp to be safely secured to the floor when it is in use. The retractable action of the wheels is mechanically responsive to the weight of a vehicle as it is wheeled on and off of the ramp, providing for a hands-free operation. While it is mobile, the ramp is further designed to be durable and simple to manufacture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventors: Joey R. Brehmer, Jamie C. Brehmer
  • Patent number: 6540470
    Abstract: The motorcycle wheel washing ramp comprised of a frame including opposing sidewalls and at least one incline wall substantially perpendicular to the sidewalls. The sidewalls have opposing apertures to adjustably receive parallel aligned rollers to permit the motorcycle wheel to advance upward onto the ramp and over the two parallel rollers after which the wheel may be manually turned for washing, cleaning and/or polishing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Inventors: Gerald F. Smith, Timothy R. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20030021661
    Abstract: A flat tire emergency truck is comprised of a steel cradle provided with a pair of rear wheels supported on a rear axle and a central swiveling front wheel. The cradle has a bottom wall and opposed spaced parallel side walls to receive a vehicle wheel therein. A pivotal rear ramp is secured to the rear axle and has a first inclined ramp section to permit the vehicle wheel to enter the cradle. The rear ramp also has a second ramp section which is actuable by the load of the vehicle wheel to cause the first plate section to pivot upward to an arresting position. The rear ramp is constructed such that when in the loading position, it causes the rear wheel to be wedged off the ground support surface. Arresting means is provided to prevent displacement to the truck when a vehicle wheel is driven in or out of the cradle over the pivotal rear ramp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2002
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventor: Martin Fluss
  • Publication number: 20020192061
    Abstract: A mobile ramp having sloped and horizontal platforms is presented for elevating a vehicle from the floor to provide easy access to the underside of the vehicle to service the same. The ramp is provided with wheels that are pivotably mounted to the frame of the ramp so that they can be extended to raise the ramp off the floor for ease of mobility. The wheels are also retractable to allow the ramp to be safely secured to the floor when it is in use. The retractable action of the wheels is mechanically responsive to the weight of a vehicle as it is wheeled on and off of the ramp, providing for a hands-free operation. While it is mobile, the ramp is further designed to be durable and simple to manufacture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2001
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventors: Joey R. Brehmer, Jamie C. Brehmer
  • Patent number: 6390759
    Abstract: An improved roll cart that allows an individual to move and transport a large roll of paper. The roll cart includes a rolling frame that supports a pivoting carriage for holding and stabilizing a large roll of paper. The pivoting carriage is pivotally attached to a frame so that the carriage can pivot within the frame to allow a roll of paper to be rolled on to or off of the carriage with minimal effort and without lifting or damaging the roll of paper. The roll cart also includes a unique combination braking/locking mechanism and can be securely maintained stationary with respect to a surface by engaging the brake portion of the mechanism. When the brake is engaged, rolling of the device is impeded and the carriage tilts to facilitate loading and unloading of a roll by rolling the roll on to or off of the carriage. When the brake is disengaged, the device is free to roll but the carriage is restricted from tilting by a locking mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Inventors: William J. Novak, Doug S. Bailey, Fred C. Casto
  • Patent number: 6287069
    Abstract: A motorcycle dolly is provided which includes a carriage for conveying the motorcycle parallel to a first plane and a prop mounted on the carriage for supporting the motorcycle in symmetrical orientation with respect to a second plane perpendicular to the first plane. In normal use, the first plane will be horizontal and the second plane vertical. The carriage consists of a chassis mounted on a plurality of casters. The casters have 360° turn capability and a locking mechanism for preventing rotation of their wheels. A ramp slopes downwardly and away from the rear end of the channel to facilitate driving the motorcycle onto the web of the channel. The prop consists of a channel fixed to the carriage with the web of the channel perpendicular to the first and second planes and the flanges of the channel aligned to receive the front wheel of the motorcycle therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Inventors: Ward M. Oliphant, Michael B. Wilson
  • Patent number: 6179542
    Abstract: A kneeling dolly with ramp brake and method of use. Each kneeling dolly with ramp brake comprises a body having a ramp adjacent a wheel well, two front wheels swivellably and retractably attached to the body, and at least one rear wheel. Devices for extending and retracting the front wheels are provided. The instant kneeling dolly with ramp brake may be used singly, in pairs, or in whatever grouping(s) desired. In operation, a vehicle is rolled onto kneeling dollies with ramp brake, until one vehicle wheel is disposed on a respective kneeling dolly with ramp brake. Due to the swivellable attachment of the front and rear wheels, each kneeling dolly with ramp brake is free to travel in any desired direction, and thus the vehicle supported by the kneeling dollies with ramp brake may be pushed in any direction. This flexibility in movement helps relieve congestion and maximize floor space in garages, hangars, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Inventor: Edward S. Haven
  • Patent number: 6126377
    Abstract: Interlocking towing skates for placement beneath the tires of a vehicle prior to winching onto a flatbed. Two or more skates can be locked together in accordance with the tire width of the vehicle to be towed, and the interlocked skates are placed beneath each tire. The disabled vehicle can be winched quickly and easily upward along the flatbed. The friction of the tires is greatly reduced as the salvage vehicle is drawn upward, and personal injury and/or damage to the transmission and/or tow truck hoist is eliminated. The towing skates are formed as an elongate hard unitary plastic member having a chock at one end, a flat mid-section, and an opposing ramped end. A series of interlocking teeth protrude laterally from one side, and a mating series of interlocking recesses are formed in the other side for locking side-by-side skates together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Inventor: Donald E. Cruse
  • Patent number: 6095746
    Abstract: A motorcycle maneuvering apparatus for moving a motorcycle about in a cramped location. The motorcycle maneuvering apparatus includes a front dolly member having wheels, a pair of frame sections mounted thereupon, a pair of cross members secured to the frame sections, and a pair of tire support member threaded upon the cross members, and further includes a middle dolly member having wheels, a platform mounted thereupon, and a pair of adjustable kickstand retaining members, and also includes a rear dolly member having wheels, a pair of frame sections mounted thereupon, a pair of cross members secured to the frame sections, and a pair of tire support member threaded upon the cross members, and in addition includes a ramp member having a pair of arm members for removably mounting to the front and rear dolly members to load the tires thereupon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Inventor: Alan Bergin
  • Patent number: 5984339
    Abstract: A motorcycle towing apparatus including a securing portion (42) for securing the front wheel (43) of a motorcycle (41) to the tow bar (50) of a towing vehicle. A link (44) fastens the wheel (43) to the securing device (42). The securing means (42) can pivot relative to a tow bar (50) in a substantially horizontal plane. Rigid member (52) is pivotally connected (53) to securing portion (42). The distal end of rigid member (52) is pivotally connected to motorcycle (41) via arms (61,62) and links (67,68). The arrangement maintains the front wheel (43) of the motorcycle (41) in fixed relationship to the motorcycle (41) whilst allowing rotation in the horizontal plane about a coupler (48).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Neville Guild
  • Patent number: 5984611
    Abstract: A wheel dolly for moving truck tires and drums to and from a wheel on a truck has an elongated frame for disposition on a base surface oriented in substantial axial alignment with the wheel of a vehicle. The frame has a pair of elongated and parallel spaced cylindrical members formed of sections which have telescoping adjacent ends. End braces extend across and are secured to the opposite ends of the cylindrical members. A carrier is slidably seated on the cylindrical members for movement therealong, and it has a planar central portion and angular portions depending therefrom outwardly of the frame to provide ramp surfaces. The carrier also has rollers supported on the lower surface of the central portion which are configured to seat on the cylindrical members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Robert P. Warner
  • Patent number: 5882177
    Abstract: Wheel skids are utilized to load, maintain, and thereafter unload vehicles to and from a container. Preferably, paired separate skids are designed to receive and trap the front steering wheels of a vehicle. Each skid includes a wheel supporting surface, and a forward bumper surface for stopping the forward rolling wheel. A rear upward folding ramp first permits the wheel of the vehicle to roll onto the skid and then folds upward for trapping the wheel. Trapping of the wheel occurs between the forward bumper and rear upward folded ramp. Side skid members contact the side of the container during sliding movement of the skid on the bottom of the container. In operation, the skids are placed just inside the front of a container, usually just beyond the end of an auto loading ramp that allows the vehicle to easily enter the container at the front steering wheels. The vehicle is started, battery may be disconnected, hood closed, and driven onto the skids until collision with the forward bumpers occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Assignee: Matson Navigation Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Edgar Stephens, Edgardo Labra, Efren Sanchez
  • Patent number: 5697629
    Abstract: A motorcycle towing apparatus comprises a securing device adapted to secure a front wheel of a motorcycle; a coupler to secure the securing device to a towbar of a vehicle in such a manner that the securing device is disposed a distance above the ground and rotatable in a substantially horizontal plane about the towbar; a rigid member extending from a proximal end connected to the securing device to a distal end; and a fastener adapted to secure the distal end of the rigid member to the body of the motorcycle to maintain the front wheel of the motorcycle in fixed relation to a body of the motorcycle. The rigid member is pivotally connected at its proximal end to the securing device so that it may be extended outwardly from the securing device during use and rotated towards the securing device to make the apparatus compact when not being used to tow the motorcycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Inventor: Neville Guild
  • Patent number: 5447406
    Abstract: A portable ramp usable to raise the wheels of an automobile, truck, trailer or the like from the floor so as to ease seeing or working on the underside of the vehicle. The ramps are mounted on wheels to make the portability easier. The wheels, in turn are hinged to the ramp so that they can be used to raise the ramp off the floor for portability or to be retracted to allow the ramp to be firmly placed on the floor. The ramp is constructed to be securely held in place as the vehicle enters it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 5, 1995
    Inventor: Francis Voss
  • Patent number: 5433469
    Abstract: A device for the safe and convenient supporting and transporting of vehicle tires comprising a base consisting of two side tubes positionable in a parallel relationship in a horizontal orientation, the tubes having front ends and rear ends, the base having a crosspiece secured to the side tubes adjacent to the front end and to the rear end with an axle secured with respect to the rear end of the side tubes with wheels rotatably secured to the ends of the axle for rotation; a handle formed of two parts, an upper part and a lower part, the upper part adapted for sliding movement up and down vertically with respect to the lower part and the base, the upper part having vertical rods and a cross piece horizontally oriented between the vertical rods at the upper end and with pairs of outwardly extending projections adjacent to the lower ends thereof, the lower part including parallel vertical rods with a cross rod at the upper end thereof and a bend for interacting with the outwardly extending projections of the up
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1995
    Inventor: Beth G. Cassels
  • Patent number: 5387001
    Abstract: Disclosed is a towing aid which may be easily assembled for multiple uses and disassembled for shipment, storage or transport and includes a variable width axle and a tongue with a variable height for the tongue hitch to accommodate various heights of vehicle hitches. In one assembly the towing aid becomes a car dolly with variable widths between the wheel wells and ramps which are mounted on a rotatable I shaped frame pivotal to and supported by the variable width axle. In a second assembly the I shaped frame is removed and a flatbed trailer frame is attached to the axle. Each part is removably affixed to other parts and disassembles into a compact kit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 7, 1995
    Inventors: Harold L. Hull, Jacques L. Cote, Robert B. Shelley
  • Patent number: 5346354
    Abstract: A steerable carriage for transferring wheeled vehicles includes a device for engaging in the carriage with a vehicle in a propulsion force transmitting manner and for elevating at least one wheel of the vehicle from a ground level, with the carriage transmitting a propulsion force to the vehicle through the engaging device and through the at least one elevated wheel of the vehicle, at least one support member on the engaging device arranged to be respectively movable to cause the wheel and the support member to assume a relative position in which at least a part of the wheel is located on the support member and is supported by the support member, at least one actuating a member on the engaging device, a chassis having at least one steerable wheel in its forward part, and legs on the chassis extending between the forward part and the engaging device, wherein said legs have an adjustable length to permit adjustment of a distance between the forward part of the chassis and the engaging device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 13, 1994
    Inventor: Nils Erik Hellstrom
  • Patent number: 5314287
    Abstract: A tractor tows an aircraft with a landing gear having a nose wheel in accordance with a method for coupling the landing gear to the tractor. The tractor and the nose wheel are moved relative to each other on an apron until they contact each other. A shovel member of the tractor is coupled to the chassis of the tractor and movable within a recess of the chassis to be lowered to receive the nose wheel and raised to lift the nose wheel. The shovel member is slidable relative to the chassis and underneath the nose wheel so that it is located entirely between the nose wheel and the apron for receiving and at least partially supporting the nose wheel. The nose wheel is then immovably coupled to the shovel member. The shovel member is then raised to lift the nose wheel above the apron for towing the aircraft with the tractor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1994
    Assignee: Schopf Maschinenbau GmbH
    Inventor: Benno Wichert
  • Patent number: 5302076
    Abstract: In an aircraft maneuvering tractor (1) for the maneuvering of aircraft (2) without the aid of a tractor drawbar, wherein the chassis of the tractor has a bifurcated receiving space which is provided between the wheels (3) of a wheel axle (4) and in which a retractable and extractable pulling-in device is arranged, by which the nose wheel (9) of an aircraft (2) can be gripped and pulled onto a shovel (10) which is movable relative to the chassis and which has a substantially horizontal bearing surface (11) onto which the nose wheel (9) is to be laid and a substantially vertical stop surface (12) against which the nose wheel (9) will abut, together with at least one hold down member (13) which is disposed over the shovel (10) and which is adapted to be laid from above against the nose wheel (9) and to be impinged by a holding down force. The hold down member (13) is formed substantially in the shape of an angle or an arc so that the inner side (15) of such angle or arc is turned towards the nose wheel (9).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 12, 1994
    Assignee: Goldhofer Fahrzeugwerk GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Michael Bammel, Franz-Johannes Curten