Abstract: A load platform is hingedly connected at its forward edge to the lower ends of a laterally spaced pair of vertically elongate runner assemblies that are vertically movably mounted on a supporting framework. Upper ends of the runner assemblies are fitted with pivotally mounted retainer brackets foldable between horizontally rearwardly extending load restraining position and vertically folded position. Selectively actuable means are provided for effecting pivotal movement of the load platform between horizontally rearwardly extending load bearing position and vertically extending folded position to concurrently effect folding and unfolding movement of the pair of bracket retainers by direct or indirect contact with the rear edge of the platform.

Abstract: A load lifting and lowering platform comprises a pair of hingedly interconnected platform sections that are foldable between a horizontally extending, load bearing position and a vertically extending collapsed position. A forward one of the platform sections is hingedly connected at its forward edge to lower ends of a pair of runner assemblies that are vertically movably mounted in a supporting framework. A pair of chains are interconnected between upper ends of the pair of runner assemblies and outer ends of the outer one of the platform sections. Cooperating cam elements, interposed between the forward edge of the forward platform section and the supporting framework, translate vertical movement of the runner assemblies into angular movement of the platform sections, in cooperation with the chains, for folding and unfolding of the platform sections.

Abstract: A trash hopper comprises part of a unitary structure including a housing that is formed, in part, by a swingable pre-compactor panel that in a retracted position slopes downwardly and rearwardly to gravitationally feed refuse toward the collection bin. Along a horizontal lower edge this panel is mounted for pivotal movement about an axis located in substantially the same vertical plane as the rear face of a reciprocable primary compaction ram which acts as a piston to force trash in the collection bin rearwardly through an open rear end of the hopper and to compact trash in the collection tank of a dump vehicle or other container. In the retracted position the pivotally mounted panel serves as a protective enclosure for its own actuating means and for the retracted ram and its hydraulic actuating cylinder or cylinders.

Abstract: The lifting mechanisms of each of a plurality of columns of a vehicle hoist are synchronously driven by an endless member which may have its power source on one of the columns. A switch to energize and de-energize the power source has a control arm that is coupled, through a lost motion mechanism, to a trigger-like, normally inactive safety mechanism that is held cocked by a safety rod. A rotary idler carried by the safety rod is biased against the endless member in a direction to withdraw the rod from the safety mechanism in the event of a break in the endless member, releasing the trigger energy to effect shifting of the power source switch to the off position by overriding actuation of the lost motion coupling mechanism.

Abstract: A load lifting and lowering platform comprises a pair of hingedly interconnected platform sections that are foldable between a horizontally extending, load bearing position and a vertically extending collapsed position. A forward one of the platform sections is hingedly connected at its forward edge to lower ends of a pair of runner assemblies that are vertically movably mounted in a supporting framework. A pair of chains are interconnected between upper ends of the pair of runner assemblies and outer ends of the outer one of the platform sections. Cooperating cam elements, interposed between the forward edge of the forward platform section and the supporting framework, translate vertical movement of the runner assemblies into angular movement of the platform sections, in cooperation with the chains, for folding and unfolding of the platform sections.