Load Bridging Vehicle Patents (Class 414/460)
  • Patent number: 11599845
    Abstract: Methods and systems for autonomously delivering consumer items in disposable packages, in which the disposable package, with the consumer item inside, are carried under a wheel robot using a grabbing mechanism that holds the package under the wheel robot. The wheel robot straddles over the package to allow the grabbing mechanism access to the package during a loading process, and then straddles off the package at a delivery location after the grabbing mechanism releases the package with the consumer item inside. Releasing of the package can be done by lowering the package to the ground in a controlled manner, or by simply releasing the package above ground thereby dropping the package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2023
    Inventors: Gal Zuckerman, Moshe Salhov
  • Patent number: 11232876
    Abstract: Provided is a standard for mobile equipment for measuring structural deformation of a nuclear fuel assembly, the standard including: a fixed frame fixed to one side of measuring equipment accommodated in a container; a standard member configured to be attached to and detached from the fixed frame, to rotate with one end portion of the fixed frame as a center, and to correspond to a nuclear fuel assembly standard specification, wherein an upper plate provided with a coupling means configured to be coupled with a transport device is coupled on one end portion of the standard member, a lower plate configured to be erected upright on and fixed to one side of the measuring equipment is coupled on an opposite end portion of the standard member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2022
    Assignee: KEPCO NUCLEAR FUEL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Mun Seog Baik, Gi Bong Kil, Kyung Hun Chang
  • Patent number: 10933792
    Abstract: A hitch attachment for dragging logs from a vehicle. The hitch attachment includes a base having a distal end and a proximal end. The proximal end of the base is configured to fit within a tow receiver of the vehicle. A vertical frame extends from the base in between the proximal end and the distal end. A log cradle is coupled to the distal end of the base. The log cradle includes a plurality of vertically extending teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2021
    Inventor: Riccardo Mistichelli
  • Patent number: 10920434
    Abstract: A robotic system having a movable gantry robot (10) for conducting construction operations. The gantry may have an expandable bridge (20) and articulated gantry support legs (34) as well as a support track system (60) holding a gantry robot (800) which may hold one or more implements and peripheral devices (806). The device can be moved by propulsion mechanisms, a controller, and one or more geo-positioned control devices to provide position information for the robotic gantry as it moves back and forth along a plurality of work sites (700). The robotic gantry is connected to a power supply system (236). The controller is automated, self-navigating, and activates, deactivates, and/or changes the operation of the propulsion mechanisms, and deploys, retracts, activates, deactivates, and/or changes the operation of one or more of the construction implements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2021
    Inventor: Kent Douglas Pearson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10456655
    Abstract: A rack for storing a plurality of cylindrical free weight plates for weightlifting is provided, wherein the cylindrical free weight plates have an outer diameter with a peripheral edge, and each weight plate is of like diameter. The rack includes a planar base sized to support free weight plates stacked in a horizontal configuration, and a plurality of spaced apart uprights disposed generally vertically on the base, and wherein each upright receives the peripheral edges of the plurality of weight plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2019
    Inventor: Allen J. Orehek
  • Patent number: 10449986
    Abstract: A transport cart for transporting a ballast block upon a ground surface by a user. The ballast block has a front, rear, top, bottom, and has a plurality of fastening openings on the top. The transport cart has a main frame having a pair of parallel side members, a wheel assembly, a pair of overhead frames attached between the side members, and a cross member attaching the overhead frames. A lifting mechanism is attached to the cross member and includes a lifting arm extending parallel to the side members, and a pair of engagement plates attached to the lifting arm. The engagement plates fasten to the fastening openings on the top of the ballast block. The lifting arm is raised by rotating a handle to raise the block above the ground surface, whereupon the ballast block may be moved along the ground surface using the wheel assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2019
    Inventor: Anthony Bonilla
  • Patent number: 9321613
    Abstract: A blade gripping device for gripping a rotor blade, in particular a rotor blade of a wind turbine, comprising a blade gripping assembly with a number of blade gripping tools and a sensor arrangement realized to sense a specific feature of the rotor blade is provided. Thereby, the specific feature is such that it can orientate the blade holding device relative to the rotor blade in a blade gripping maneuver. A method of moving a blade gripping device for gripping a rotor blade is also disclosed, in particular a rotor blade of a wind turbine, relative to the rotor blade is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Steen Mattrup Hansen, Jesper Moeller, Kenneth Helligsoe Svinth
  • Publication number: 20150104279
    Abstract: A wheeled cart and method for moving a constant force weight system to and from a roof-top surface. The wheeled cart comprises a handle for pushing and a handle for pulling the cart; a front lift plate and a rear lift plate; and a winch device connected to both the front lift plate and the rear lift plate. The weight system is attached to the wheeled cart by interconnecting an opposing pair of adapted edges of the weight system with the front and a rear lift plate of the wheeled cart. When the weight system is connected to the lift plates, the winch device is wound or unwound to lift or lower the weight system such that the cart can be moved while carrying the weight system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2014
    Publication date: April 16, 2015
    Inventor: Gregory S. Kenton
  • Patent number: 8864408
    Abstract: Compact, readily maneuverable apparatus for picking up and laterally transferring roadway barrier modules includes a vehicle for moving along a roadway barrier and elongated conveyors located at the sides of the vehicle, connected to the vehicle and pivotal between operative and inoperative positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Lindsey Transportation Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Gerrit A. Dyke
  • Patent number: 8834062
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for automatically guiding a machine that picks up and places roadway barrier segments using satellite global positioning and ultrasonic sensors. The machine is guided by both GPS signals and signals based on ultrasonic measurement of distance from the existing barrier segments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Lindsay Transportation Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin L. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 8636157
    Abstract: A lifting system for a vertically-elevating cab, the lifting system includes a frame assembly having a first and a second support column, first and a second lift screws which are attached to the, respective, first and second support columns, a cab-lifting beam that has a first and a second end attached to the, respective, first and second lift screws. A vertically-elevating cab is mounted on the cab-lifting beam in such a manner that a center of gravity of the cab is not aligned with a center of the cab-lifting beam. A plurality of rollers are located on each end of the lifting beam. Each one of the plurality of rollers is in contact with a guide bar on each of the respective first and second support columns, and a first and a second power system is connected to the, respective, first and second lift screw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Mi-Jack Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Myron Glickman, Eric Brian Van Gorp, John J. Lanigan, Jr., James Thomas Russo, Daniel Brian Zakula, Sr.
  • Publication number: 20140017046
    Abstract: A fully electric straddle carrier device for ISO containers, comprising electric drives which are powered by a battery and comprising liftable and lowerable load-receiving means for the ISO containers, where the battery is arranged above the load receiving means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2012
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Applicant: GOTTWALD PORT TECHNOLOGY GMBH
    Inventors: Armin Wieschemann, Mike Hegewald, Jannis Moutsokapas
  • Publication number: 20140017045
    Abstract: A fully electric straddle carrier device for ISO containers, comprising electric drives which are powered by a replaceable battery and comprising liftable and lowerable load-receiving means for the ISO containers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2012
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Applicant: GOTTWALD PORT TECHNOLOGY GMBH
    Inventors: Armin Wieschemann, Mike Hegewald, Jannis Moutsokapas
  • Publication number: 20130251486
    Abstract: A log handler having a front arch and a rear arch each fitted with two wheels. The arches are connected with a plurality of cross braces and parallel braces hinged at their ends in a manner to allow all four wheels to follow the surface of uneven terrain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2012
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Inventor: ALBERT C. POLLARD, SR.
  • Patent number: 8480349
    Abstract: A device for longitudinal adjustment of a spreader relative to the yoke beam with a sled for lateral adjustment of the spreader between the supports of a straddle carrier for picking up and transporting containers includes a base frame and mountings for support bolts firmly connected with it, a traverse with openings for support bolts and an attachment for a displacement cylinder, support bolts between the mountings and the traverse, and displacement cylinders between the base frame and the traverse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Noell Mobile Systems GmbH
    Inventor: Roman Hiltscher
  • Publication number: 20130152397
    Abstract: A facility for assembling aircraft fuselages comprises a plurality of movable cradles. Each cradle is configured to support a fuselage keel structure and assemble a panelized fuselage in a single upright build position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2011
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Applicant: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventors: Harinder S. Oberoi, Blair P. Nelson, Alan S. Draper, Charles Y. Hu, Randall Matthewson, Branko Sarh
  • Patent number: 8444361
    Abstract: A portable log skidder designed for towing with various vehicles comprising a self-contained battery-operated winch is herein disclosed. The skidder comprises a steel frame providing an ā€œLā€-shaped configuration. An inverted ā€œUā€-shaped structure at a rear location provides an opening and an upper pulley over the open frame. To utilize the log skidder, it is positioned in proximity to a large log. A steel cable is extended from the winch and strapped around one end of the log. Next, the winch is used to raise one (1) end of the log slightly off the ground. The log skidder, along with the log, is then pulled using a vehicle thereto a location where the log can be harvested for firewood, lumber, or other purposes. The log is centered over two (2) pneumatic rubber tires on the frame which carry the weight of the log skidder and the log. The winch is controlled by a tethered remote control unit at a safe distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Inventor: Weldon Hershey
  • Publication number: 20120323408
    Abstract: A straddle carrier comprises a frame (10) having opposite substantially parallel sides (12, 14) and which is configured for straddling a container to be lifted and transported between said opposite sides. The carrier has three ground wheels (24, 26) and (28) to enable the frame to be positioned over the container. The ground wheels comprise a first ground wheel (24) disposed at least approximately centrally on one side (12) of the frame, and second and third ground wheels (26, 28) disposed at opposite ends of the other side (14) of the frame. The second and third wheels (26, 28) are steerable by rotation about respective substantially vertical axes (40, 42).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2010
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Applicant: COMBILIFT RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT LIMITED
    Inventors: Martin McVicar, Robert Moffett
  • Patent number: 8109692
    Abstract: A barrier transfer device includes a cantilevered support arm and a carriage coupled to the support arm. The carriage includes at least a pair of barrier interface members extending downwardly from the support arm. The barrier interface members are configured to engage a barrier on opposite sides thereof when the barrier. A system for transferring a barrier includes a transfer vehicle having an outermost portion on each of first and second opposite sides of the transfer vehicle. The cantilevered support arm is coupled to the transfer vehicle and extends laterally outwardly past the outermost portion of the transfer vehicle on the first side of the transfer vehicle. A moveable barrier system includes at least one barrier having first and second sides and a bottom adapted to be supported by a ground surface and a transfer vehicle having a barrier interface element engaging only a first side of said barrier. Methods for transferring a barrier are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Energy Absorption Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: James B. Welch, Douglas E. Wilkinson, Patrick A. Leonhardt, Michael H. Oberth, Barry D. Stephens, Sean Thompson, Donald L. Crothers
  • Patent number: 8006624
    Abstract: A machine for uploading and positioning rails on crossties in railway tracks includes an inverted U-shaped gantry (1-2), with side branches finished at the lower part in respective caterpillar tracks (4) of movement on the ballast of the beam on both sides of the platform of crossties. The gantry (1) supports a pair of clamps (8) with jaws (16), for fixing the rails by the core thereof, and preventing pitching, which clamps (8) close by means of respective hydraulic cylinders (10) movable in height actuated by another hydraulic cylinder (15) through a deformable parallelogram (12), while at the same time they are longitudinally movable by the actual movement of the machine. The machine thus moves forward towards the rail carrier train located at the end of the track under construction, grasps a pair of rails with its clamps, and pulls them without contact with the ground until they are arranged on their assembly position, the rails serving for the forward movement of the rail carrier train.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Tecsa Empresa Constructora, S.A.
    Inventor: Rafael Valero Sin
  • Patent number: 7997827
    Abstract: A watercraft support and tote device having a frame sub-assembly having a first frame member and a second frame member and at least one support member; a power output member; a hydraulic sub-assembly having a hydraulic vessel, a control system, and a conduit; at least one ground engaging wheel; a drive member; a winch; and a plurality of watercraft support members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Inventor: Ryan Patrick Fogg
  • Patent number: 7878742
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for gripping a unit load during handling of same, said device comprising an attachment portion for attaching the device to the unit load, a gripping portion (for engaging with a handling means) which is embodied in the form of a container corner, and a set of at least two said gripping devices adapted in a certain way to the unit load or at least to elements of the unit load. The invention also relates to a transport vehicle for the unit load, comprising a towing vehicle and a trailer that are connected to each other via the unit load during transportation thereof, and which have holding devices for the unit load on their facing ends, comprising a set of said gripping devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Inventor: Aloys Wobben
  • Patent number: 7743870
    Abstract: The invention relates to a crane comprising bogie structures (3) in the corners of the crane, a tandem drive wheel and idle wheel (8, 9) arranged in each bogie structure and provided to turn in the bogie structure offset from their vertical axes, and a turning device arrangement (15, 16) provided between each wheel pair for turning the wheel pair in cooperation to a selected position, the turning device arrangement comprising at least two turning rods (15, 16) connecting the wheels, which turning rods are connected to counterparts (17, 18, 19, 20) provided for each turning position or function in load-bearing structures (10, 11) of the wheels (8, 9) and turning along therewith, whereby at one wheel the position of the turning rods or the counterparts in the load-bearing structure is slidable around the load-bearing structure, yet the one of the counterparts or turning rods that corresponds to the selected turning position may be locked with a locking mechanism (21, 22, 23, 24) immobile with respect to the loa
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: KCI Konecranes PLC
    Inventor: Hannu Oja
  • Patent number: 7731041
    Abstract: A gantry stacker for transporting and stacking freight containers consists of two chassis beams with steerable wheels, supports, a hoist, an overhead frame, a lifting beam a driver's cab and engines. There are at least two spreaders that are movable in a horizontal direction independent of each other and are disposed in a side-by-side relationship on a lifting beam. Containers deposited directly side-by-side with no gap there between may be gripped, transported and separated or that spaced-apart containers with an alley may be gripped, transported and moved toward each other so that they may be readily transported further, using multispreader systems. Containers of different heights may be gripped and transported. The lifting height allows for straddling containers standing on the floor with attached and lifted containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Noell Mobile Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Martin Gredel, Hubert Foltys
  • Patent number: 7594785
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for gripping a unit load during handling of same, said device comprising an attachment portion for attaching the device to the unit load, a gripping portion (for engaging with a handling means) which is embodied in the form of a container corner, and a set of at least two said gripping devices adapted in a certain way to the unit load or at least to elements of the unit load. The invention also relates to a transport vehicle for the unit load, comprising a towing vehicle and a trailer that are connected to each other via the unit load during transportation thereof, and which have holding devices for the unit load on their facing ends, comprising a set of said gripping devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Inventor: Aloys Wobben
  • Patent number: 7575120
    Abstract: A hoist that is demountably secured to a frame of an all terrain vehicle, comprising a base that is demountably secured to the frame; an arm-base bracket that is secured to a top surface of said base; a base arm that is pivotably mounted to a front portion of said arm-base bracket; a sliding arm that is slidably received by said base arm, said sliding arm having a sliding arm terminal end; a base arm locking member that locks the sliding arm in place relative to said base arm; a sliding arm pulley rotatably secured to said sliding arm terminal end; a support arm adjustably secured at one end to a rear portion of said arm-base bracket, and at the other end to said base arm; and a crank capable of receiving a cable from said sliding arm pulley.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald Beatty
  • Patent number: 7547177
    Abstract: A device and method for lifting and rotating a massive container comprising a base frame assembly, a cradle pivotally connected to the base frame assembly and adapted to hold the container, a mechanism for moving the container vertically relative to at least part of the base frame assembly, and a hydraulic cylinder connected between the base frame assembly and the cradle for rotating in a vertical plane the cradle relative to the base frame assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2009
    Assignee: MHE Technoligies, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven K. Waisanen
  • Patent number: 7472916
    Abstract: A log hauling device is provided which includes a frame member; a connection means at one end of the frame member for connection of the frame member to a tow vehicle; a log carriage slidably mounted on the frame member; and a retaining member for retaining a log in the log carriage. The log carriage is slidably mounted on the frame member for movement from a log loading position adjacent a proximal end of the frame member to an extended position adjacent to a distal end of the frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Inventor: Jason Varcoe
  • Publication number: 20080296095
    Abstract: A communication link arrangement for a cargo moving device comprises an electrical infrastructure that is mechanically coupled to a cargo moving device. The cargo moving device includes a cargo retaining structure and a main body coupled to the cargo retaining structure. The electrical infrastructure includes a single conductor electrically coupling the cargo retaining structure and the main body for delivering power and data signals between the cargo retaining structure and the main body. The electrical infrastructure further includes one or more conductors. A first networking element is mechanically coupled to the cargo retaining structure and is electrically coupled to the single conductor. A second networking element is mechanically coupled the main body and is also electrically coupled to the single conductor. A high-speed network link over power line carries data over the single conductor in the electrical infrastructure that supplies power between the main body and the cargo retaining structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: Innovative American Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: DAVID L. FRANK
  • Patent number: 7371038
    Abstract: A trailer for transporting a container provided with lifting holes is disclosed. The trailer has a generally U-shaped frame, the front thereof being provided with a hitch for removably attaching the trailer to a tractor, the generally U-shaped frame being shaped and sized to receive the container therein, the frame being provided with wheels on each side thereof. The trailer also includes a plurality of retractable lifting members, each retractable lifting member being positioned proximate a lifting hole of the container when the container is received within the frame, the retractable lifting members being movable between an inoperative position where the lifting members are disengaged from the lifting holes, and an operative position where the lifting members engage the lifting holes and are extendable to lift the container. A controller is also provided for controlling the lifting members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Inventor: Dory Tuvim
  • Patent number: 7322786
    Abstract: A mobile loader is driven to a dockside location underlying the spreader bar of a marine terminal crane. A delivery vehicle such as a train or a truck is driven into the loader at such dockside location so that containers maybe transferred between the delivery vehicle and a platform located within the loader in lateral adjacency to the delivery vehicle. Motorized devices are provided for respectively transferring containers between the delivery vehicle and the platform, aligning the platform below the spreader bar, elevating the platform toward the overlying crane spreader bar to reduce its required descent for attachment to the container and aligning the crane spreader bar as it descends onto a container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Rafael Rivera, Christopher Clemmer
  • Publication number: 20080003088
    Abstract: An adjustable schnable system in which the ride height of the transport object may be adjusted by the operator is disclosed and claimed. The adjustable schnable is comprised of a plurality of sections including front and rear portions having goosenecks and multiple axles therein. Vertical elevation of the goosenecks is controllable via hydraulic cylinders. Two pivotably adjustable arms are cooperatively engaged to both the front and rear goosenecks. Two v-type frames, having lateral beams, are pivotably mounted between and to each set of adjustable arms. The transport object, inserted between the two v-type frames, is held secure by compression forces. Raising the goosenecks causes the transport object to lift higher with respect to the adjustable schable system, rather than causing movement of the lateral beams of the vee-type frame in relation to the transport object. Control over the adjustable arms allows manipulation of the transport object ride height.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2006
    Publication date: January 3, 2008
    Inventor: Brian Banta
  • Publication number: 20070224021
    Abstract: Earth retaining device, comprising a pair of feet (10) for resting on the ground, inside each of which at least one associated upright (20) is inserted, said feet (10) being arranged at a suitable relative distance in the transverse direction (Y-Y) so as to allow the mounting of retaining boards (40) on the uprights (20) and the fitting of bases (50) extending in the transverse direction (Y-Y) between the feet (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Publication date: September 27, 2007
    Inventor: Giulio Travi
  • Patent number: 7134151
    Abstract: This is a device to easily and safely transport a toilet, which can be broken down and folded for easy storage and transport. It has very few mechanical parts and uses the existing toilet set holes to safely lift a toilet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Inventor: George J. Cheramie
  • Patent number: 7047605
    Abstract: A vehicle (10) is used to lift the buried lid of a crypt and any soil or turf overlying the lid. The vehicle (10) has a mobile frame (14) which can be positioned over the lid. An attachment frame (11) is suspended from a subframe (12) within the mobile frame (14), the subframe (12) being adjustable laterally relative to the frame (14). The attachment frame (11) has winch cables (19) adapted to be connected to respective attachment fittings on the lid. Hydraulic cylinders (13) are used to raise the attachment frame (11) relative to the mobile frame (14), and thereby lift the lid and any overlying soil/turf. The raised lid can be transported while suspended from the vehicle (10), and subsequently returned for replacement on its crypt in a reverse procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Rockhampton City Council
    Inventor: Gavin William Kele
  • Patent number: 6886192
    Abstract: A toilet lifting and transport device. The device has forward legs and rear legs, with the forward legs being selectively deployable in an open configuration for lifting and transporting use, and a closed configuration for storage. A screw lift is positioned on at least one horizontal support that is positioned between the rear legs. The lifting device is coupled to a toilet fixture via a tank strap and bridge straps. Lifting of the toilet fixture is then accomplished utilizing the screw lift. Transport of the lifting device with the toilet fixture thereon is accomplished by rolling the lifting device on wheels located on the bottoms of the rear and forward legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Inventor: Dennis A. Merrill
  • Patent number: 6863002
    Abstract: Railway container transhipment device for moving a container, wherein the device includes two underframes. Each underframe includes a crane unit, whereby the crane units are adapted to cooperate with one another. Each of the two crane units include a lower boom, and upper boom, a lower moving gear adapted to move the lower boom, an upper moving gear adapted to move the upper boom, and a lifting element arranged on the upper boom. An axial moving unit connects the two underframes and is adapted to adjust a distance between the two underframes. When the two crane units move the container, the railway container transhipment device is capable of adjusting an angle of movement of each of the two crane units which is proportional to the distance between the two underframes. This abstract is not intended to define the invention disclosed in the specification, nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Inventor: LĆ”szlĆ³ Vida
  • Patent number: 6860699
    Abstract: A straddle loader for lifting a load includes an upper frame having a spreader for grasping the load, a compartment for an operator, at least two traveling frames for receiving the load, and a lifting system connected to the upper frame and the plural traveling frames. The lifting system varies the distance between the upper frame and the plural traveling frames by uniformly transferring the load to the traveling frames so that the upper frame and the traveling frames remain parallel and perpendicular. The straddle loader further includes a plurality of telescoping beams associated with the lifting system so that at least two telescoping beams are connected to each of the traveling frames. Each telescoping beam is capable of extension and retraction. Stationary pivot shafts connect each end of each of the telescoping beams to the respective upper frame or traveling frame and to a pressure cylinder associated with each of the telescoping beams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: Noell Crane Systems GmbH
    Inventor: Otto Weis
  • Patent number: 6789995
    Abstract: The invention pertains to a vehicle for handling coils (2), particularly sheet metal coils, or the like. According to the invention, the vehicle comprises a bridgelike frame structure (1) which forms a tunnel (3) all along the vehicle, for the passage of coils (2) while they lay on the ground, having height and width dimensions slightly greater than the corresponding dimensions of the coils (2), means (18) for griping the coils (2) and means (10) for lifting the coils (2). In accordance with an advantageous improvement, the tunnel (3) is at least partly upwardly open, to allow the coils (2) to be lifted above the height of the tunnel (3). The invention also addresses a combination of the vehicle with a store for coils (2), wherein coils (2) are arranged axially side-by-side on rows (A, B, C, D), whose distance from each other depends on the wheel gauge of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Inventors: Cristiano Manzi, Giorgio Pastorino
  • Patent number: 6749388
    Abstract: A container handling apparatus utilising a cradle (1) having a chassis (2) adapted specifically for attachment to the top of the shipping container (C) and having lifting legs (3) attached to each corner of the chassis and incorporating lifting rams. The legs are pivotably attached at pivot points to the respective corners whereby to be swung between positions extending alongside the chassis in a stored orientation and positions extending downwardly from the chassis in a ground engaging orientation. The pivotable attachments for said lifting legs are such that the positions of the legs can be extended and retracted laterally of the chassis, whilst in the lower ends of said legs carry wheels (8) for mobility whereby the cradle with the legs extending downwardly from the chassis in a ground engaging orientation with, or without, a container suspended beneath said chassis, can be moved from one position to another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Inventor: Hans Heinrich Schmidt
  • Patent number: 6695159
    Abstract: In a gantry crane having a vertically movable, horizontal stabilizer beam spaced between upright columns, a shock absorbent bumper assembly is mounted to ends of the stabilizer beam to prevent direct contact against the columns. The bumper assembly includes an elastically deformable bumper body made of resilient material and a wear pad made of wear resistant material, the wear pad being secured to the bumper body so that the wear pad faces the column. The wear pad resists wear due to sliding contact against the column and the resilient bumper body absorbs energy from impacts as the stabilizer beam shifts in a transverse direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Mi-Jack Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Brian Zakula, Sr.
  • Publication number: 20030219332
    Abstract: A straddle loader for lifting a load includes an upper frame having a spreader for grasping the load, a compartment for an operator, at least two traveling frames for receiving the load, and a lifting system connected to the upper frame and the plural traveling frames. The lifting system varies the distance between the upper frame and the plural traveling frames by uniformly transferring the load to the traveling frames so that the upper frame and the traveling frames remain parallel and perpendicular. The straddle loader further includes a plurality of telescoping beams associated with the lifting system so that at least two telescoping beams are connected to each of the traveling frames. Each telescoping beam is capable of extension and retraction. Stationary pivot shafts connect each end of each of the telescoping beams to the respective upper frame or traveling frame and to a pressure cylinder associated with each of the telescoping beams.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2003
    Publication date: November 27, 2003
    Applicant: Noell Crane Systems GmbH
    Inventor: Otto Weis
  • Patent number: 6640986
    Abstract: A hydraulic system for actuating opposed arms of a grappler for a gantry crane dampens swaying motion of the arms. Within a conduit which carries pressurized fluid to and/or from actuators to pivot the arms, a dampener includes a restrictor having an orifice to restrict the flow in at least one direction. Each of the dampeners can include a respective check valve to permit free flow through one direction of the conduit and to direct reverse flow through the orifice. In a specific embodiment, a load is received between opposed arms of the grappler to seat upon shoes which extend inwardly from the arms. To urge the shoes to remain in secure lifting contact under the load, flow is restricted when the swaying load moves the arm outwardly, permit free motion of the arm when the swaying motion pulls the arm inwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: Mi-Jack Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Brian Zakula, Sr., Daniel J. Olson
  • Publication number: 20030190221
    Abstract: A container transport apparatus for transporting a shipping container between two locations, such as between residences or business locations, includes a front unit and a separate rear unit for supporting the respective forward and rear ends of the shipping container. The front and rear units each include a frame structure with upper and lower hydraulically extendible vertical arm members. Locking pins on the vertical arm members engage sockets on the corners of the shipping container to facilitate vertical lifting and support of the container above the ground without tilting the container, thereby preventing damage to articles packed in the container. A forwardly extending trailer tongue on the front unit attaches to a hitch of a towing vehicle. The rear unit is provided with drive wheels and steering wheels for maneuvering the rear unit into position against the rear end of the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Publication date: October 9, 2003
    Inventor: Adam Whitley
  • Publication number: 20030161708
    Abstract: A triangulated gantry includes a front ground-supported boom positioned laterally between and longitudinally remote from left and right rear ground-supported booms of the machine. The booms are functionally interconnected by a system of horizontal beams that may form an at least generally triangular shape when viewed in top plan. The resultant gantry is extremely stable and extremely maneuverable when compared to traditional four boom gantries. Maneuverability may be enhanced further by configuring each of the bases of the booms so as to be steerable through an angle of at least 360° with respect to the remainder of the boom. One or more of the horizontal beams may be extendible and retractable to increase and reduce the size of the footprint of the machine, permitting the machine to maneuver towards a load through tight spaces and to subsequently expand to straddle the load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2002
    Publication date: August 28, 2003
    Inventor: Roger L. Johnston
  • Patent number: 6568897
    Abstract: In a motor vehicle including a load receiving bed, a chassis .includes a generally horizontal base, from which there extends a pair of legs, and four hydraulic cylinders, associated lines, associated valves, and a flow restriction device are provided for moving the load receiving bed between a raised transport position and a lowered position against a surface upon which the vehicle is resting. A tail gate is pivotally attached to a rear portion of the load receiving bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignee: Razorback Vehicles Corporation Pty. Ltd.
    Inventor: Jeffrey Kendall
  • Publication number: 20030086776
    Abstract: A dolly for moving articles including lateral filing cabinets, comprising a support surface for one end portion of such a cabinet, and upstanding members partially surrounding the support surface for locating the cabinet in position. The upstanding members include an upstanding end member for locating one end of a cabinet and side members for locating sides of the cabinet, the dolly having an open end opposite the end member which allows the dolly to be slid underneath the cabinet when tilted. Side wheels are mounted on fixed axles outside of the support surface adjacent the open end, and a caster wheel is mounted by means of a bracket extending outside of, and supported by, the end member. The dolly can be used by one operator to move a fully loaded lateral filing cabinet without tilting the cabinet to such an extent to cause damage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventors: Kamal Roy Nandram, Jean-Guy Dube
  • Publication number: 20030007852
    Abstract: A piano-transporting apparatus includes a three-sided frame with a rear side and a pair of parallel, transversely-extending sides with an open front, thereby forming a rectangularly-shaped pocket for receiving a piano. A longitudinal bar on the rear section carries a pair of forwardly-projecting hooks which are capable of engaging the piano either at the base thereof or along the upper back portion. Strap means are provided for securing the upper end of the piano with respect to the frame. A drive mechanism, such as a hydraulic arrangement can be used for raising the hooks and thereby lifting the piano from the floor or other supporting surface. The frame is mounted on rollers so that it can be easily transported. The apparatus is highly effective in that it enables a single person to secure, lift, and transport a piano. A method of utilizing this apparatus is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2002
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Inventor: Boris Bernards
  • Patent number: 6419440
    Abstract: A trailer for transport, positioning and removal of grave-site supports by one workman provides a U-shaped base frame supporting an upstanding peripheral frame that carries an upstanding storage bin for tools and accessories required for set up of the grave-site support and supports a hoist structure. The U-shaped base frame defines a rearwardly opening medial space within which the grave-site support is carried for transport while allowing trailer positioning over the grave-site support for removal and placement. The hoist provides a depending tension element interconnecting plural connector elements which interconnect the grave-site support for vertical motion for positioning and transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Inventor: Dean E. Smith
  • Publication number: 20020084298
    Abstract: A carrier for the spare tire of a sport utility vehicle. The carrier includes a pair of additional hinges mounted to the vehicle body just outside the rear gate and an arrangement of leg members that moves in unison with the rear gate as it is opened and closed. The spare tire is mounted on the arrangement of leg members which includes an adjustable leg member which not only helps to properly align the spare tire with the vertical but also can be used to correct or offset any sag that might develop in the rear gate. It can also be used to vary the relative amounts of the tire's weight being supported by the gate including its hinges is versus being supported by the body of the vehicle at the hinges for the carrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2001
    Publication date: July 4, 2002
    Inventor: Richard C. Essig