Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to a structural frame member which includes a brace member that is used to absorb energy when the structural frame is subjected to loadings such as seismic, wind and gravity loads. The brace member is coupled to a restraining member that increases the buckling capacity of the brace member so that the brace member has approximately the same load axial capacity in compression as in tension. Embodiments of the invention also relate to the design, construction and assembly of the connection of the brace member that couples the brace member to a gusset plate which is coupled to the beam and column in the structural frame.

Abstract: A lift truck mast arrangement minimizes stresses occurring in mast members using rearward chain anchor placement to apply a rearward counterbalancing moment to the mast so as to create a bending moment in portions of the mast below the instantaneous position of the load carriage which is substantially equal to the bending moment then occurring in portions of the mast above the load carriage.

Abstract: Use of a laterally-shiftable C-shaped frame which supports an auxiliary mast above its upper and lower extremities allows a lift truck to handle wider loads in a given aisle width, and decreases bending moments and inertial forces.

Abstract: Elevations of a lift truck load carrier relative to shelves of a storage rack are accurately indicated by photosensor means on the load carrier operated by light reflected from reflectors on the storage rack. Raising and lowering the load carrier rotates the shaft of a retractable cable reel. Photosensor signals operate a clutch which connects the reel shaft to rotate a potentiometer over a limited range of heights surrounding the desired load carrier heights for each shelf in a vertical stack of shelves.

Abstract: The fork carriage of a side-loader truck is journalled for rotation about a vertical axis between two arms, one above and one below the carriage, which transmit lateral load moments to a narrow vertical member. A vertically-extending torque shaft journalled on the vertical member carries gears on its opposite ends. The gears engage laterally-extending racks spaced widely vertically apart on a rearward carriage, so that lateral load moments apply minimum forces to the racks, and rotation of the torque shaft also serves to laterally position the vertical member and the fork carriage. The rearward carriage may comprise an elevatable, mast-guided laterally-fixed carriage, or an intermediate carriage may be interposed between the vertical member and the laterally-fixed carriage to provide greater lateral load extension. An intermediate carriage having a roller arrangement insuring adequate support at any lateral load position is shown.