Fluid Pressure Actuated Patents (Class 52/115)
  • Patent number: 11359606
    Abstract: A wind turbine including a mast assembly having an upper support structure hingably attached to a lower support structure wherein the mast assembly has an installation position and an operational position. A wind turbine wheel is mounted to the mast assembly having a circular rim disposed at its perimeter and having an axle structure. An electrical generator is supported by the mast assembly and configured to engage with the turbine wheel for generating electricity in response to the rotation of the turbine wheel. A plurality of hydraulic lifts are provided in contact with the upper support structure when the mast assembly is in the installation position and configured to transition the upper support from the installation position to the operational position and wherein at least one hydraulic lift loses contact with the upper support structure during the transition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2022
    Inventor: Gerald L. Barber
  • Patent number: 11174137
    Abstract: A telescoping jib of a mobile crane with telescoping sections that telescope inwards and outwards from a jib base casing, and a guying system for the telescoping jib having at least one cable extending between a guying frame and a fixed point by a guying support and is anchored by guying supports, where each guying support comprises a holding mechanism for the cable. A method for guying a telescoping jib of a mobile crane in which at least one cable is anchored between a guying frame on the telescoping jib consisting of a jib base casing and a plurality of telescoping segments and a fixed point on the telescoping jib, and the at least one cable is guided by means of at least one guying support supported on the jib base casing head or a telescoping segment head of the telescoping jib.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2021
    Assignee: Tadano Demag GmbH
    Inventor: Laurent Muller
  • Patent number: 11118372
    Abstract: An auto-lock assembly for a telescoping mast having a plurality of telescoping tube sections configurable between a retracted position and an extended position is disclosed herein. Also disclosed herein is a telescoping mast, which includes a plurality of telescoping mast sections including a base tube, an intermediate tube, and an end tube, the intermediate and end tube adapted to be telescopically received in the base tube, a base auto-lock having a collar for mounting to the base tube, and an intermediate auto-lock having a collar for mounting to the intermediate tube. Further disclosed herein is an auto-lock for use with a telescoping mast having a plurality of tube sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2021
    Assignee: The Will-Burt Company
    Inventors: Cameron Jay Young, Rexford Richard Mast, Ng Kah Fei
  • Patent number: 11035143
    Abstract: A drilling rig system includes a drilling rig that includes a mast, a pair of hydraulic pistons coupled to a pair of front legs of the mast and configured to apply a first force to the mast, the first force acting in a direction opposing a force generated by a weight of the mast, a plurality of raising lines coupled to a crown block of the mast and to a pair of rear legs of the mast opposite the front legs and configured to apply a second force to the mast, the second force acting in a direction opposing the force generated by the weight of the mast, and a drawworks assembly coupled to the plurality of raising lines and configured to apply a force acting away from the crown block of the mast to at least one of the plurality of raising lines to generate the second force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2021
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventor: Fathalla Shalouf
  • Patent number: 10894699
    Abstract: Example embodiments relate to a lightweight crane. In one nonlimiting embodiment the crane is comprised of a telescoping boom having a first boom nested in a second boom which in turn is nested in a third boom. The first, second, and third booms may be made from aluminum to reduce the weight of the crane. The first boom may have a first open section and a second closed section wherein the open section is configured to accommodate a structural member to which an actuator is attached. The first and second booms have lower surfaces with inclined surfaces so that the first boom self-aligns with the second boom and the second boom self-aligns with the third boom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2021
    Assignee: STELLAR INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Matthew Wendell Schroeder, Cory John Burrs, Jeramy Richard Voortmann
  • Patent number: 10654694
    Abstract: A system and method for retaining a linear actuator on a crane component such as a mast is disclosed. In the system a retaining mechanism is mounted on either a body of the linear actuator or the crane component and a catch is mounted to the other of the body or the crane component. Retraction of a rod of the linear actuator causes a cap on the rod to contact the retaining mechanism, which causes the retaining mechanism to move into a latched configuration securing the linear actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2020
    Assignee: Manitowoc Crane Companies, LLC
    Inventor: Nathan P. Holly
  • Patent number: 10576627
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are systems and methods for a robotic system capable of carrying out operations in a hazardous or confined space. The system comprises a manipulator arm, a plinth, a trolley, an end effector, and a control system. The plinth and trolley each comprise one or more locking pawls for securing the system to mounting points. The system is capable of maneuvering between mounting points in an inch-worm-like fashion. Motion starts from a fixed position where both the trolley and plinth locking pawls are secured to a first mounting point. The trolley locking pawls are then released and the trolley runs along the manipulator and secures locking pawls to a second mounting point. The plinth locking pawls are then released and the plinth is drawn to the second mounting point where it is secured via locking pawls. When both the plinth and trolley are secured, operations can be carried out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2020
    Assignee: Kurion, Inc.
    Inventors: Jascha Frei, Robert R. Heim, Paul Damon Linnebur
  • Patent number: 10196860
    Abstract: A system and method are usable as a telescoping, small-scale oil rig, having the ability to rotate tubulars in a wellbore, pull tubulars from the wellbore, and insert tubulars into the wellbore. The system comprises a telescopic derrick section, a casing jack platform, and a base section. The telescopic derrick comprises U-shaped substructure frames that can be nested together, and is connected to an adjacent substructure through hydraulic cylinders. When pressurized, the cylinders extend to separate each substructure and raise the telescopic derrick. The casing jack platform comprises a traveling casing jack and spider for holding, inserting and removing tubulars. The base section supports the telescopic derrick and comprises a rotary floor and another spider for holding, inserting and removing tubulars into and from the wellbore. The combination of the traveling spider and stationary spider can be used for inserting tubulars into the wellbore when the well is under pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Inventor: David C. Wright
  • Patent number: 10106990
    Abstract: A flooring element is provided for a raised floor including removable flooring panels and a supporting structure with a load bearing surface. The flooring element includes a warning element operable for moving between an inactive position in which the warning element is substantially concealed by the surface and an active position in which the warning element projects beyond the surface to form a visual hazard warning indicator. The flooring element may be for example a flooring panel, a stringer, a pedestal, an insert for a pedestal or an insert for inserting between a sub-floor void and a flooring panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2018
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Sarah M. Drewery, Colin I. Holyoake, David J. Tolley, Julian D. Williams
  • Patent number: 9869109
    Abstract: A drilling rig mast erection system includes a mast support shoe that is fixedly attached to a drilling rig substructure and has a support shoe pinned connection. A bottom mast section has a first mast pinned connection that is adapted to be pivotably connected to the support shoe pinned connection. A mast positioning apparatus is adapted to pivotably position the bottom mast section so that the first mast pinned connection is positioned adjacent to the support shoe pinned connection. The mast positioning apparatus includes a bottom mast support spreader having a first end that is adapted to be pivotably connected to the bottom mast section at a first spreader end pinned connection and a mast erection apparatus having a first end that is adapted to be pivotably connected to the bottom mast support spreader at a first mast erection apparatus pinned connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2018
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
    Inventors: Jay John Thiessen, Kameron Wayne Konduc, Donald Leonard Burlet
  • Patent number: 9856671
    Abstract: In certain embodiments, a tower lifting system comprises a primary lifting system and a secondary lifting system. The primary lifting system includes a lift cap configured to support a tower section to be lifted, the lift cap having a first plurality of hoists, and a lift pole coupled to the lift cap, the lift pole having a lifting mechanism configured to lift the lift cap, the lift pole, and the tower section to be lifted from within a previously lifted tower section. The secondary lifting system comprises a second plurality of hoists configured to raise the tower section to be lifted to the lift cap from a tower foundation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Jerald Edward Jones, Valerie Lisa Rhoades
  • Patent number: 9574402
    Abstract: A spreader beam includes a first spreader beam section, where the first spreader beam section is pivotably coupled to the first substructure and a second spreader beam section, where the second spreader beam section is pivotably coupled to the second substructure. The first and second spreader beam sections are positioned to, in an extended position, selectively couple to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Nabors Drilling USA
    Inventor: Ryan Hause
  • Patent number: 9574590
    Abstract: A telescoping mast having a latch assembly includes a latch body mountable to a first tube section, a latch mechanism supported by the latch body, a toggle mechanism operatively connected to the latch mechanism, and a latch plate mountable to a second tube section. The latch mechanism includes a pawl member pivotably between an engaged position for interlocking with a corresponding recess in the latch plate to thereby restrict axial movement between the first and second tube sections, and a disengaged position allowing relative axial movement between the first and second tube sections. The toggle mechanism is movable between an over-center locked configuration corresponding to the engaged position of the latch mechanism and an unlocked configuration corresponding to the disengaged position of the latch member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: The Will-Burt Company
    Inventors: Neil David Dykes, Paul B. Blackwelder, Anatol Kwartler, Rexford R. Mast, Andrew Paul Wasson, Michael James Kardohely, Douglas A. Jacobs
  • Patent number: 9518429
    Abstract: An improved walking drilling rig is disclosed. The walking drilling rig includes a preassembled substructure that includes a first skid beam disposed parallel and spaced apart from a second skid beam. A plurality of crossbeams couple the first skid beam to the second skid beam, and a plurality of extendable legs are supported by the first and second skid beams. An elevatable drill floor is coupled to the plurality of extendable legs and includes a rotary table disposed between a pair of lateral platforms. Each lateral platform has a retracted position and an extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2016
    Assignee: Independence Contract Drilling, Inc.
    Inventors: Fred Fortson, David Brown
  • Patent number: 9464488
    Abstract: A system includes a drilling rig having a substructure, the drilling rig being adapted to be positioned above a plurality of wellbore location such that each of the plurality of wellbore locations is simultaneously positioned below the substructure. Equipment movement means is included for moving pressure control equipment between positions proximate each of the plurality of wellbore locations, the equipment movement means being adapted to move the pressure control equipment between the positions while the drilling rig is performing a rig operation on at least a first one of the plurality of wellbore locations. Equipment positioning means is included for positioning pressure control equipment on one or more of the plurality of wellbore locations, the equipment positioning means being adapted to position the pressure control equipment on a second one of the plurality of wellbore locations while the rig operation is being performed on the first wellbore location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
    Inventor: Jay John Thiessen
  • Patent number: 9366053
    Abstract: A method includes assembling a telescoping substructure box having first and second substructure boxes in a collapsed configuration by nesting at least a portion of the first substructure box inside of a substantially open interior space defined by a plurality of structural elements that comprise the second substructure box. The assembled telescoping substructure box is transported to a drilling site and telescopically raised from the collapsed transportation configuration to a raised operating configuration for performing drilling operations on a wellbore location of the drilling site by telescopically raising one of the first and second substructure boxes relative to the other one of the first and second substructure boxes. A drilling mast is coupled to and raised above the telescoping substructure box, and drilling operations are performed on the wellbore location with the raised drilling mast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
    Inventors: Jay John Thiessen, Kameron Wayne Konduc, Donald Leonard Burlet
  • Patent number: 9334668
    Abstract: Modular transfigurable drilling rig system composed of multiple components, which system is transfigurable between a transport mode in which the components of the system are transportable and an operational mode in which the components are assembled to a drilling rig which is adapted to drill into a well centre in the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2016
    Assignee: ITREC B.V.
    Inventors: Diederick Bernardus Wijning, Joop Roodenburg
  • Patent number: 9316067
    Abstract: A coiled tubing handler lifts and extends outwardly over wellhead a support platform on which a coiled tubing injector is mounted. The handler collapses into a compact arrangement that allows it and the coiled tubing injector to be transported to a well site on a vehicle or trailer, and then used at the well site to raise, position and support the coiled tubing injector connected to a blow out preventer and riser assembly for connection to a well head. The support platform may be tilted backward and forward, shifted from side-to-side, and raised and lowered on the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2016
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, LP
    Inventors: Mike Xiaolei Lu, David W. McCulloch
  • Patent number: 9255383
    Abstract: Provided is a device for fixing hydraulic piping to prevent the hydraulic piping from sliding down even when the bolt for coupling a clamp which fixes the hydraulic piping is loosened by the vibration generated during operation. The device for fixing the hydraulic piping of construction equipment includes: a piping sheet fixed to a boom structure; upper and lower clamps constituted by a fixed part fixed to the piping sheet and a concave groove for supporting the hydraulic piping; a coupling member for fixing the fixed part to the piping sheet; a hydraulic pipe fixing plate mounted on the piping sheet; a connecting hole for connecting a main pipe, which is connected to a main control valve mounted on an upper rotating body, to the hydraulic pipe disposed on the boom structure; and a bolt and nut for fixing the connecting hole to the hydraulic pipe fixing plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: VOLVO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT AB
    Inventors: Joon-Seog Go, Sung-Yong Jo
  • Patent number: 9091126
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a telescoping substructure of a drilling rig that includes first and second telescoping substructure boxes. The first and second telescoping substructure boxes each include, among other things, a lower substructure box and an upper substructure box that is adapted to be telescopically raised and lowered relative to the lower substructure box. Furthermore, each telescoping substructure box also includes raising means for telescopically raising and lowering the upper substructure box relative to the lower substructure box between a collapsed configuration for transportation and a raised configuration for drilling operations, wherein each of the first and second telescoping substructure boxes are adapted to facilitate movement of the telescoping substructure in at least one of a lateral direction and a longitudinal direction over wellhead equipment positioned above a wellbore location when the upper substructure boxes are in the raised configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
    Inventors: Jay John Thiessen, Kameron Wayne Konduc, Donald Leonard Burlet
  • Patent number: 9085443
    Abstract: The invention relates to a locking system for a telescopic crane jib, in particular for a mobile crane, in which a lock is established between a telescoping cylinder (10, 20) and a telescopic part (1-4) by means of a locking unit (21) in order to extract and retract the telescopic parts, and the locking unit (21) is disposed on the telescoping cylinder (10, 20) in such a way that it can be moved longitudinally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2015
    Assignee: Manitowoc Crane Group France SAS
    Inventors: Johannes Schuermann, Dieter Stuehrwoldt
  • Patent number: 8991107
    Abstract: A reclosable mast (2) for drilling rig includes two opposed latticed structures (22), constrained at one end to the base structure (10) placed in the drilling site “P” and to each other, defining side faces (2b) of the mast (2). U-shaped structures, each include a rear bar (40), adapted to get compressed when closing the mast (2), and two side shoulders (41) parallel to each other and perpendicular to the an associated bar (40). The U-shaped structures are arranged at preset intervals between the two latticed structures (22), the rear bars defining the rear face or back (2a) of the mast (2). The mast (2) includes a diagonal members (3) located on the rear face 2a of the mast and constrained, between two superimposed U-shaped structures, the diagonal members (3) being adapted to split into at least two portions; reducing their longitudinal extension, and to allow reducing the dimension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Drillmec S.p.A.
    Inventor: Stefano Ferrari
  • Patent number: 8959870
    Abstract: A fluid-actuated telescoping tower supporting an associated load at a height above an associated foundation includes a fluid barrier, first and second telescoping tubular tower sections, a fluid port configured to receive compressed fluid from an associated source into an interior space of the tower defined by the first and second tubular sections, and a fastening system for holding the first and second tubular sections in the extended position with the compressed fluid received in the interior space of the tower and for mechanically connecting the first and second tubular sections in the extended position with the compressed fluid exhausted from the interior space of the tower by the fluid port. A method of erecting a tower includes inflating nested first and second telescoping tubular tower sections, fastening the sections in an extended position, and depressurizing the tower. A method of collapsing uses a reversal of the erecting process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Inventor: Phillip M. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 8863449
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a raisable substructure of a drilling rig that includes first and second substructure boxes. The first and second substructure boxes of the raisable substructure each include, among other things an upper box and a lower box, wherein each of the upper boxes is adapted to be raised above a respective lower box. The disclosed raisable substructure also includes a movable center floor section that is adapted to be supported by the upper boxes of the first and second substructure boxes, wherein the movable center floor section is further adapted to be slidably moved between the upper boxes during assembly of the drilling rig.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
    Inventors: Robert Benjamin Donnally, Chunqiao Ren, Xilin Liu
  • Patent number: 8839570
    Abstract: A method includes accommodating a first mast section of a mast on a mast cart below a floor of a platform, the mast comprising a plurality of mast sections, and elevating, using actuators located on the mast cart, the first mast section through an opening in the platform. The method also includes attaching the first mast section to the platform using a plurality of holding locks located on the platform, accommodating a second mast section on the mast cart below the floor of the platform, and elevating the second mast section to the first mast section using the actuators. The method also includes attaching the first mast section to the second mast section, detaching the first mast section from the platform, elevating the first mast section and the second mast section through the opening using the actuators, and attaching the second mast section to the platform using the holding locks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Nabors Drilling International Limited
    Inventors: Anthony Petrello, Padira Reddy, Ashish Gupta, Sean M. Bailey
  • Publication number: 20140259985
    Abstract: A method includes accommodating a first mast section of a mast on a mast cart below a floor of a platform, the mast comprising a plurality of mast sections, and elevating, using actuators located on the mast cart, the first mast section through an opening in the platform. The method also includes attaching the first mast section to the platform using a plurality of holding locks located on the platform, accommodating a second mast section on the mast cart below the floor of the platform, and elevating the second mast section to the first mast section using the actuators. The method also includes attaching the first mast section to the second mast section, detaching the first mast section from the platform, elevating the first mast section and the second mast section through the opening using the actuators, and attaching the second mast section to the platform using the holding locks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Nabors Drilling International Limited
    Inventors: Anthony Petrello, Padira Reddy, Ashish Gupta, Sean M. Bailey
  • Patent number: 8534004
    Abstract: A rapid deployment and retraction telescoping mast system for controlling the height of a mast. A retraction mechanism including a resilient member, a retraction reel, a reel shaft, and a motor disposed about a frame. The resilient member extends from the retraction reel and is rigidly attached to a top tube of the mast through a sealed passage. The reel shaft rotates the retraction reel and winds the resilient member creating a retraction force on the top tube causing controlled retraction of the mast. A deployment mechanism including a compressor, storage tank, exhaust valve and isolation valve arranged about the frame and in communication with the mast. The compressor generates pressurized air to be communicated to the mast when the isolation valve is in the open position. The increase of pressure generated by the deployment mechanism provides a force within the mast thereby controlling its deployment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: The Will-Burt Company
    Inventors: Andrew Paul Wasson, Michael James Kardohely
  • Publication number: 20130091784
    Abstract: A fluid-actuated telescoping tower supporting an associated load at a height above an associated foundation includes a fluid barrier, first and second telescoping tubular tower sections, a fluid port configured to receive compressed fluid from an associated source into an interior space of the tower defined by the first and second tubular sections, and a fastening system for holding the first and second tubular sections in the extended position with the compressed fluid received in the interior space of the tower and for mechanically connecting the first and second tubular sections in the extended position with the compressed fluid exhausted from the interior space of the tower by the fluid port. A method of erecting a tower includes inflating nested first and second telescoping tubular tower sections, fastening the sections in an extended position, and depressurizing the tower. A method of collapsing uses a reversal of the erecting process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Inventor: Phillip M. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 8234823
    Abstract: An extendible mast includes at least three columns having a plurality of column sections that telescopically nest one inside another. A base plate is connected to each column, and each of a plurality of brackets is also connected to each column. The plurality of brackets are positioned along the length of the mast when extended.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Inventors: Clifton D. McClure, Jonathan M. Lance, Sr.
  • Publication number: 20120167485
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a high-capacity drilling rig system that includes novel design features that alone and more particularly in combination facilitate a fast rig-up and rig-down with a single set of raising cylinders and maintains transportability features. In particular, a transport trailer is disclosed having a first support member and a drive member which align the lower mast portion with inclined rig floor ramps and translate the lower mast legs up the ramps and into alignment for connection. A pair of wing brackets is pivotally deployed from within the lower mast width for connection to the raising cylinder for raising the mast from a horizontal position into a vertical position. A cantilever is pivotally deployed from beneath the rig floor to a position above it for connection to the raising cylinder for raising the substructure from a collapsed position into the erect position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2011
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Applicant: T&T ENGINEERING SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Mark W. Trevithick, Darrell E. Jamison, Gus E. Rodriguez, Keith J. Orgeron
  • Publication number: 20120159875
    Abstract: A method of constructing a tower structure by assembling a set of coaxial telescopic sections 2, 3a, 3b in position on site and then raising the assembled sections using hydraulic crawler jacks 8 and tendons 5. The telescopic sections are assembled or constructed in situ, starting with the inner section and then each subsequent section around the outside of the previously constructed sections. Each individual tower section may be cast in situ or assembled from multiple pre-fabricated segments. This method permits the construction of very tall structures while obviating the need for very large cranes. It also removes the design constraints on the height of the individual telescopic sections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2009
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Inventors: Max Meyer, Walter Althaus, Ferry Effendi, Nugroho Budi Juliadi, Româo Almeida, Jean Marie Laurens, Pascal Burtet
  • Publication number: 20120079778
    Abstract: A rapid deployment and retraction telescoping mast system for controlling the height of a mast. A retraction mechanism including a resilient member, a retraction reel, a reel shaft, and a motor disposed about a frame. The resilient member extends from the retraction reel and is rigidly attached to a top tube of the mast through a sealed passage. The reel shaft rotates the retraction reel and winds the resilient member creating a retraction force on the top tube causing controlled retraction of the mast. A deployment mechanism including a compressor, storage tank, exhaust valve and isolation valve arranged about the frame and in communication with the mast. The compressor generates pressurized air to be communicated to the mast when the isolation valve is in the open position. The increase of pressure generated by the deployment mechanism provides a force within the mast thereby controlling its deployment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2010
    Publication date: April 5, 2012
    Inventors: Andrew Paul Wasson, Michael James Kardohely
  • Patent number: 7958693
    Abstract: In a boom 15 for a working machine 10 attached to an upper rotational body 30 supported on a center of an upper portion of a crawler-type traveling device 40 to be transversely rotatable, the boom 15 includes, as portions cast by integral molding, a boom support point part 16, a boom cylinder rod support point part 18, and an arm support point part 19, and is configured so that the boom support point part 16 is connected to the boom cylinder rod support point part 18 by a general-purpose first rectangular pipe 61, and so that the boom cylinder rod support point part 18 is connected to the arm support point part 19 by a general-purpose second rectangular pipe 62.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Yanmar Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasuyuki Oyamada, Keiichi Nishihara, Takahiro Ikeda, Takafumi Nobayashi, Masao Nagata, Saizou Kondou, Masami Miyanishi
  • Publication number: 20110072737
    Abstract: A portable drilling rig apparatus includes a rig floor having a pedestal structure thereon, the pedestal structure comprising a lower pivot point and a lower attachment point and wherein the pedestal structure is configured to be rotated to a vertical position about the lower pivot point. The drilling rig further includes a mast structure having a mast pivot point at a lower end of the mast structure wherein the mast pivot point is configured to be pinned to an upper pivot point of the pedestal structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL DRILLING EQUIPMENT COMPANY, LLC
    Inventor: Philip Wasterval
  • Publication number: 20090019794
    Abstract: The device is specially designed to facilitate the collapsing of towers (4) in movable structures that are frequently assembled and dismantled, such as, for example, in the field of the staging of events. The invention consists in establishing, on the tower (4), a fixed, lower base (2) of scant height, which is securely connected to the general structure (1) on which the tower (4) is to be raised, whilst the remaining, principal sector of said tower (4) is connected to the base (2) via a hinging shaft (3), there being established, between the principal sector (4) of the tower and the fixed structure (1), a connecting rod (6) joined in an articulated manner to both elements, which together with those elements and with the base (2) forms a deformable quadrilateral.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2007
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Inventor: Oscar Centelles Vilalta
  • Patent number: 7040552
    Abstract: An applicator boom apparatus comprises an applicator boom extending laterally from a vehicle, and pivotally attached to the vehicle such that the boom can pivot up and down with respect to the vehicle. A kit provides a gauge member adapted to ride along a surface of the ground and support an outer portion of the boom such that the boom moves up and down with the gauge member as the gauge member rides along the ground, and also provides an active hydraulic source powering the shoulder hydraulic cylinder of the apparatus such that the shoulder hydraulic cylinder exerts an upward force on the boom such that a downward force exerted on the gauge member by the boom is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Inventors: David Gary McCrea, Thomas Edward McCrea
  • Patent number: 6484469
    Abstract: A column assembly preferably includes a tube member having a wall that defines an interior volume. The column assembly is preferably operable to convert external, axial compressive forces applied to the column assembly into at least tangential stresses within the wall of the tube member. In one embodiment, an external compressive force causes increased pressurization of a filler material located within the volume of the tube member. The pressurized filler material produces tangential, tensile stresses within the wall of the tube member rather than axial compressive forces within the wall of the tube member. In some embodiments, a reinforcing, tension member, e.g., a wire rope, may be helically wound around the outer surface of the tube member along at least a portion of its longitudinal length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Inventor: William E. Drake
  • Patent number: 6290377
    Abstract: An improved pneumatically telescoping mast supported for pivotal movement in opposite directions is provided. The mast includes adjacent telescoping sections slidable relative to one another between retracted and extended positions. A pneumatic control system for displacing the mast sections between the retracted and extended positions is also provided, as is a mechanical arrangement for pivoting the mast between generally horizontal and vertical positions. The mechanical arrangement includes a drive mechanism operable independently from the pneumatic control system which is capable of securely maintaining the mast at any desired angle between the horizontal and vertical positions. The mast includes an AC powered light source mounted at the upper end of the mast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignee: The Will-Burt Company
    Inventor: John A. Hulse
  • Patent number: 6253502
    Abstract: A conventional cargo or passenger-type van (typically about 14-24 feet in length) is fitted with a boom assembly that is readily transported with the van in a collapsed position and substantially parallel to the van roof, but can be elevated to a substantially vertical position, and quickly extended upwardly to full height. Where four booms are used, full height may be about 65 feet, or even more. A support frame is provided which substantially supports a main pedestal exteriorly of the roof and connected to the booms and an extension cylinder, to the van's main frame, including initially telescopic support posts disposed inside the van interior which do not impede access to the van interior from the side and rear doors, and which leave the center of the van interior essentially unobstructed. A pivotal connection for the first boom about which it moves from a transport to a substantially vertical position is mounted slightly to the rear of the centerline of the rear axle of the van.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Inventor: George F. Layton
  • Patent number: 6102059
    Abstract: A movable device for alternatingly covering and uncovering a vehicle is shown and described. The device includes a protective cover, a structural member, a lift member, and an inlet for receiving a pressurized fluid and controlling the fluid to raise and lower the cover. The protective cover is constructed to receive at least a portion of the vehicle, such as a boat or a car. The structural member has an elongated hollow extending at least partially from a first end to a bottom end and ending at a termination point. A first end of the lift member is coupled to the protective cover and a second end of the lift member is reciprocally engaged with the hollow. The lift member can move with the protective cover between a first position in which the protective cover receives at least a portion of the vehicle and a second position in which the protective cover is separated from the vehicle. The space between the second end of the lift member and the termination point of the hollow defines a chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Inventor: Steven M. Miller
  • Patent number: 6067756
    Abstract: A space-saving, single-cylinder, room extender, this invention consists of a hydraulic cylinder, electrically powered screw auger or other electrically powered means is nested within an inner structural member that is, in turn, telescopically nested within an central beam. Further, the nested structural members form an integral part of the structure of the expandable room being embedded within the floor of the room, or being embedded within the structural frame of an accessory within the room. Low friction shims hold the inner structural member within the central beam such that lateral motion is minimized while the telescopic motion of central beam relative to the inner structural member is smooth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Assignee: HWH Corporation
    Inventors: Marc Edward Frerichs, Paul Edmund Hanser
  • Patent number: 6053419
    Abstract: A self-centering boom for self-propelled agricultural sprayers having a double-acting hydraulic cylinder and a magnetically actuated electrical position sensor and control for sensing and moving the boom to a centered position. The electro-hydraulic control circuit senses boom position when the boom is at or near a centered position with respect to the sprayer and automatically centers the boom when the sprayer drive train is out of a neutral condition. The hydraulic system includes a pair of pressure relief valves to allow the boom to deflect due to inertial forces when turning or when contact is made with an obstruction, with the control system returning the boom to a centered position after turning or when the boom is clear of the obstruction. A flow restricting orifice cooperates with the pressure relief valves to automatically adjust the pressure at the inlet of the relief valve to retard rapid boom movement, while not interfering with slow boom movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Assignee: Case Corporation
    Inventors: Martin L. Krohn, Richard D. Towner, Daniel Larson
  • Patent number: 5995063
    Abstract: The present invention relates to radio communications and in particular to antenna structures. There is a growing demand in the radio communication system market to reduce the size and cost of radio communication sites and to reduce the maintenance costs involved. Many radio communication sites are also costly and difficult to maintain especially when dealing with components of the antenna structures which are located near the top of the antenna structures. The present invention attempts to address these problems. The present invention provides an antenna structure comprising a hollow antenna mast having an inside and an outside, a movable module disposed inside the hollow antenna mast and a lifting mechanism. The movable module has at least one antenna and/or at least one RF module. The a lifting mechanism permits the raising and lowering of the movable module inside the hollow antenna mast. Furthermore, the communications equipment can be placed inside the hollow antenna mast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: Nortel Networks Corporation
    Inventors: Vincent Somoza, Paul McDonald
  • Patent number: 5887390
    Abstract: A boom swing control device for controlling boom swing relative to a frame. Booms may be supported relative to a frame for application of material over a wide area. During an application process, the booms are subjected to various external forces which cause the booms to move or swing relative to the frame. The boom swing control device of the present invention includes first and second members operably coupled to the boom and the frame supporting the boom to control and dampen movement of the boom relative to the frame. The second member is moveably supported relative to the first member to move between an extended or excited position and a retracted normal operation position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1999
    Assignee: Ag-Chem Equipment, Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Joey W. Schulz, Chad L. Moe
  • Patent number: 5860252
    Abstract: A valve mechanism for self-expanding booms. The mechanism is preferably a mechanical expansion device that folds out the boom so that air flows into the boom to fill the boom. When the boom is folded, the air is pressed out of the boom. A novel feature is an automatic control mechanism that is adapted to permit an inflow of air into the boom when the boom is expanded and to permit an outflow of air when the boom is collapsed, rolled up and stored. The control mechanism is affected by the relative position between the valve mechanism and other parts of the boom when the boom is in the expanded or collapsed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1999
    Assignee: Expandi Systems AB
    Inventor: Per Olof Oberg
  • Patent number: 5850713
    Abstract: An apparatus for raising and lowering devices such as an antenna including a multiple-stage cylinder system composed of a plurality of telescopically connected cylinder units each of which comprising an internal cylinder and an external cylinder that are connected at their lower ends so that the internal cylinders of the plurality of cylinder units form a sealed space so as to be filled with pressure oil used for extending and contracting the cylinder system. In addition, a fixture structure is provided on the lowest stage cylinder unit so that the cylinder system is held upright by the fixture structure at two points on the lowest stage cylinder unit in a vertical direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1998
    Assignee: Yuasa Koki Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Yukinori Hojo
  • Patent number: 5832676
    Abstract: A structure having dimensions for transportation on an airplane, and which when assembled into a module has sufficient headroom for an average height person. The structure includes two portions, a top portion and a bottom portion. The top portion fits over and envelopes the bottom portion prior to assembly. The pre-assembly structure is thus easily transportable. To form the module, the top portion is raised to a higher level using pneumatic compressors. Folding walls are also provided in the structure, which when unfolded form the walls for the module. The folding walls may further include doors also provided in a folded form. The pre-assembled structure is designed for ease of construction to form the corresponding module. Several such modules may be combined to form a building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Assignee: MCI Communications Corporation
    Inventors: William E. Gillmore, Freddie Hugh Sebren
  • Patent number: 5572837
    Abstract: A pneumatically telescoping mast adapted for mounting an electrical fixture is disclosed. The telescoping mast includes a pneumatic control system to extend the mast from a retracted position to an extended position. The mast is made up of adjacent telescopic sections, each section slidable relative to an adjacent section, each section slidable between the retracted position and the extended position. Mechanical arrangements are disclosed for pivoting the mast between a generally horizontal and a generally vertical position, including drive mechanisms operable independently of the pneumatic control system and adapted to securely maintain the mast at any desired angle between the horizontal and vertical positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Assignee: The Will-Burt Company
    Inventors: Harry E. Featherstone, Dennis B. Donahue
  • Patent number: 5494397
    Abstract: A load handling apparatus for a vehicle includes a telescopic boom pivotably mounted on a chassis frame of the vehicle. The boom has first, second, third, and fourth sections telescopically engaged in sequence and mounted so as to be slidable relative to one another. A first hydraulic ram is adapted to move the first and second sections together by way of a synchronizing arrangement, and a second hydraulic ram moves the third section relative to the fourth section. The first section carries a load receiving device and a hydraulic unit for manipulating the load receiving device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1996
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: James Wilson
  • Patent number: 5333422
    Abstract: A lightweight extendable and retractable telescopic pole is disclosed comprising a plurality of non-metallic telescoping cylinders with sliding and sealing surfaces between the cylinders, a first plug member on the upper end of the smallest cylinder, and a second plug member on the lower end of the largest cylinder, whereby fluid pressure admitted to the largest cylinder will cause the telescoping cylinders to slide relative to one another causing the pole to extend. An elastomeric member connects the first plug member with one of the intermediate cylinders to urge the cylinders back into a collapsed position when the fluid pressure in the cylinders is vented. Annular elastomer members are provided which seal one cylinder to another when the pole is fully extended and further serve to provide a cushion to prevent damage to the cylinders when the pole is urged back into its retractable position by the elastomeric members and the venting of the pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 2, 1994
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy
    Inventors: John L. Warren, James E. Brandt