Wood and elongate member transport rack system and tie spool mounting bracket

Abstract

A rack system for use in interaction or combination with a forklift vehicle, or like vehicle, is disclosed. The rack system of the invention can be utilized for supporting and/or tying substances, items or members in positional relationship with a vehicle, for work on or transport of such items. The rack system in one aspect of the invention is provided with at least one rack support member, and preferably two such rack support members, for attachment to a overhead guard or other area of the vehicle. At least one of such rack support members is provided with a spool mounting bracket for installment of a dispenser accommodating tying or securing material. In another aspect of the invention the spool mounting bracket can be installed directly to an area adjacent to a cabin or driver's area in a vehicle, or directly in attachment with an overhead guard or other portion of a forklift or other vehicle.

Description

PRIORITY FILING INFORMATION

Priority is claimed for the benefit of the Provisional Application filed for this invention, filed on Jun. 19, 2004; filed under Ser. No. 60/582,060; which is incorporated herein by reference, as if copied herein verbatim (all specification pages and drawing and photographic illustrations). Said Provisional Application Specification constituted twenty-one (21) pages and thirty-four (34) illustration sheets (including drawings and illustrative photographs), FIGS. 1 through 33; all of which should be considered part of the original matter and record filed herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an accessory device installed in positional relation to the fork lift's overhead guard area, to be available to a rear portion of a fork lift vehicle to facilitate the additional storing and transporting of wood, sticks or other such lengthwise oriented items (other than fuel tank members); and to facilitate the ready availability of a spool carrying strap(-ping), rope, wiring, flexible/coilable elongate polymer tying materials, or other tying materials; for ready positional availability for tying or otherwise securing such wood, sticks or other lengthwise items stored in the device.

2. Background Information

Over the years, a number of devices seeking to improve the functional utility of traditional or conventional forklifts, fork lift-type vehicles, or other utility, transport or tractor vehicles, have been developed; in so far as their improved ability to carry elongate items or objects. The Applicant is aware of the following Patent References related to such functions: Cook, U.S. Pat. No. 2,714,460; Izumi et al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,846,499; Maney (Patent Application), 2002/0172581; Colburn, U.S. Pat. No. 5,845,940; Jung, U.S. Pat. No. 5,634,665; Samide, U.S. Pat. No. 4,047,750; Rogers, U.S. Pat. No. 3,520,571; Kallevig et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,551,050; Nozaka et al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,836,738; Colbum, U.S. Pat. No. 5,806,892; Brouwer et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,788,452; Kim et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,637,706; Hill et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,330,031; Brown, U.S. Pat. No. 4,690,609; Henderson, U.S. Pat. No. 4,333,250; Scarola, U.S. Pat. No. 4,011,974; Zehrung, Jr., U.S. Pat. No. 4,168,079; Probst, U.S. Pat. No. 4,129,223; McPherson, U.S. Pat. No. 5,746,564; Kooima, U.S. Pat. No. 6,033,177; Richey, U.S. Pat. No. 2,660,322; and Borgen, U.S. Pat. No. 4,144,981.

Kooima '177, McPherson '564, Brouwer '452, Cook '460, Maney '2581 (published patent application), and Kallevig '050; references disclosing the ability to carry additional elongate items; of the group cited above; have only marginal similarity to the present invention; and are a great deal more complicated in their structure and operation, in relation to the present invention. Additionally, none of these references teach the functional ability, or relevant structure, to secure elongate items in positional relation to an overhead guard of a forklift-type vehicle, or the ready, close positional availability of a support for a spool member or means for easily providing tying materials for use in securing or individualizing packets or plural members of such items for transport, carrying and/or storage.

All of the prior art that the Applicant is aware of suffers from a number draw-backs in their respective use and function. None of such prior art devices appear to address the ability of operating functionally in positional relation to the overhead-guard of a fork lift vehicle for carrying wood, sticks or other such elongate members in a secure carrying position in a rear portion of the fork lift, away from a fuel tank or a like member; nor does any of the prior art afford the ready and easily accessible ability to utilize a closely retained spooling member for wrapping, tying, bundling or otherwise respectively individualizing groups or plural elongate members such as wood, sticks, piping, rods, steel or iron members or other elongate or lengthwise oriented items, which a worker desires to carry or transport in the rear portion of a fork lift vehicle, in addition to whatever may be carried in the front section of a forklift vehicle.

Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the present invention has a great utilitarian advantage over the prior art of being easily, but securely, installed on the rear portion of an overhead guard on many existing and conventional forklifts, so as to make available a carrying portion for storing and transporting wood and elongate items, to further make available, in close positional orientation, a spooling means containing tying materials for ready access for tying such elongate items; and for providing additional ballast, or counter-balance, to a forklift vehicle when it is carrying other items in front portions thereof.

It is, therefore, an object of the present invention to provide an easily installed accessory device for a forklift vehicle having a set of rack members which are attached to, and take advantage of the additional support available by virtue of the positioning of most beams of the overhead guard of a forklift vehicle.

It is a further an object of the invention to secure its rack members along the overhead guard of the forklift so that elongate members placed in the racks, once installed, will be spaced or distanced appropriately from a liquid propane tank on rear portions of a forklift, or other fuel means or members placed in such rear portions of this type of vehicle.

It is yet a further object of the present invention to provide a means of dispencing spooled tying materials, attached to one of the inventions rack members for easy and convenient access in relation to the rear area of the forklift, and the rack members of the invention, for providing tying materials for tying, wrapping or otherwise securing bundles or plural elongate members, or other materials, stored in the inventions rack members.

And, it is a further object of the present invention to provide further utility and use to forklift vehicles, as well as added ballast or counter-weight to a forklift vehicle.

It will, therefore, be understood that substantial and distinguishable structural and functional advantages are realized in the present invention over the prior art teachings; and that the present invention's novel structure, design and positional arrangement; diverse utility; and broad functional applications serve as important bases of novelty and distinction in this regard.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The foregoing and other objects of the invention can be achieved with the present invention, device and system which is a WOOD AND ELONGATE MEMBER TRANSPORT RACK SYSTEM AND TIE SPOOL MOUNTING BRACKET.

In preferred embodiments the invention is provided as a device having at least one rack member, preferably L-shaped in configuration; but which can have first and second members forming different shapes and angles in relation to each other. In preferred embodiments of the invention two such L-members are provided for installation, in interaction or in combination with a the overhead guard and other areas of a forklift vehicle.

In another aspect of the invention at least one of the rack members, of preferably two (2) such rack members utilized, is provided with a support member for movably, rotationally and/or pivotably supporting a spool or other dispenser of typing or securing material for use in binding, wrapping or otherwise securing items to be transported, stored or gathered. The support member is attached to the rack member. The rack member is releasably and movably attached at a preselected position on an overhead guard portion of a forklift vehicle or at other portions or positions of a forklift vehicle, so that a spool or other tie-dispenser can be positionally available to the rack member utilized to carry or transport items by the forklift, including elongate members or other transport materials. The rack member can be moved and secured to different positions on an overhead guard portion of a forklift vehicle, or in relation to supporting members on a forklift for supporting an overhead guard structure on such a vehicle. In this regard, the present invention can be adapted or retro-fitted, integrally or by virtue of attached parts, to a diverse multitude of forklift vehicles including, without limitation, propane tank, diesel, electric, gas, or other driven, fueled, energized or activated forklift vehicles, or similar vehicles.

In other aspects of the transport rack system of the present invention both the rack member and the spool support member are provided as L-shaped members attached to one another. The spool axle or dispenser mounting member of the present rack system is preferably mounted on the L-shaped support member so as to form an imaginary z-axis in relation to two arms or members of the support member forming by virtue of their own positional relationship an imaginary Cartesian x and y axis.

In other aspects of the invention the rack member is secured, as indicated by example, in relation to forklift overhead guard portions by a U-bolt, or other such coupling or securing means so that the rack member is secured to the overhead guard without the need of drilling holes or otherwise fluting or disturbing the internal structural integrity of overhead guard support members. In such aspects of the invention the U-bolt secures a base member or plate on each rack member to the forklift overhead guard.

When so utilized, the spool or dispenser support member can be integrally, severally or separately attached to the rack member through many means of attachment.

In other aspects of the invention the spool or dispenser support member is provided with a spool or other dispenser housing and making available various types of tying or securing materials, items or substances. The spool axle or dispenser mounting member is provided with clip, coupling or other securing means, when necessary, for holding a spool or dispenser in installed movable or non-movable position.

In aspects of the invention the rack system is mounted separately onto a forklift vehicle, to function in interaction with such a vehicle. In other aspects of the invention the rack system is mounted by connected or attached parts/members, or integrally mounted, on a forklift vehicle, preferably on an overhead guard portion thereof, for use in combination with such a vehicle, or on a forklift vehicle having rear or cabin portions thereof for installation and mounting of the present invention. The rack system can also be utilized on any type of overhead guard structure in any type of vehicle.

In another aspect of the invention the spool or dispenser support member is mounted respectively and separate of the rack member along a wall or other surfacing of a cabin or driver's area of a forklift or other vehicle.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating the novel Wood And Elongate Member Transport Rack System And Tie Spool Mounting Bracket of the present invention, installed on an exemplar type of Forklift vehicle, with which it interacts, and illustrating an installed spool member, with which the invention also interacts.

FIG. 2 is an elevated perspective view of the present invention illustrating an installed spool member in broken lines, and a wing nut and securing member. The invention is illustrated in partial portion attached to two respective portions of an exemplar (or example-type of) overhead guard of a forklift vehicle.

FIG. 3 is an elevated perspective of the present invention, illustrating a preferred embodiment of the invention, where the spool support member of the invention is installed on the opposite side of a forklift vehicle in relation to the installation shown in FIG. 2.; and illustrating the washer as a part of the invention, and the spool member as a part with which the present invention is designed to interact, in preferred embodiments thereof.

FIG. 4 is a side view of one of the rack members of the present invention, in a preferred embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a side view of one of the rack members of the present invention, illustrating the attached spool support member of the invention, and an exemplar spool component or unit utilized in relation to this member, and with which the invention interacts.

FIG. 6A a perspective view of the spool support member of the present invention, illustrating the utilization of the washer and exemplar securing members of the invention.

FIG. 6B is a front and right side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of the present invention, illustrating, by example, connection to one of the beams or shafts of an overhead guard of a forklift.

FIG. 6C is a front elevated view of the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 6B.

FIG. 6D is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 6B, illustrating, by example, the connection of the present invention to the overhead guard portion of an exemplar forklift vehicle (shown in broken-lines) FIG. 6E is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 6B illustrating connection to a forklift overhead guard, the connection of a rotatable spool, and spool wingnut securing means in broken-lines.

FIG. 6F is a photograph of a sketch of the spool support, and connection means, of the present invention, setting forth a perspective view illustrating, by example only, dimensioning which can be utilized for these elements of the invention.

FIG. 7 is an elevated perspective view of the present invention set forth generally in an opposite positional view to that of FIG. 1, showing a portion thereof attached in relation to the overhead guard of an exemplar forklift vehicle with which the present invention interacts.

FIG. 8A is a photograph of a front elevated perspective view of a preferred embodiment, illustrating the invention with an exemplar spool connection means, but without the installation of a spool member with which the present invention interacts.

FIG. 8B is a photograph of a rear-side perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 9 is a photograph of another left side perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 8A, for clarity, showing more detail of the invention's connection members.

FIG. 10A is a photograph of a right-side elevated perspective view of the base plate and connection members of one of the rack members of the embodiment of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 10B is a photograph of a left side perspective view of another base place and connection members of another of the invention's rack members, of the embodiment of FIG. 8A, for clarity.

FIG. 11 is a photograph of a left-rear perspective view of the present invention of FIG. 8A, in positional relation to a liquid propane fuel tank on a forklift vehicle and a spool containing polymer tying materials with which the present invention interacts.

FIG. 12A is a photographic illustration of a portions of a diesel forklift vehicle in relation to which the present invention can be adopted for connection, interaction or combination therewith.

FIG. 12B is a photographic illustration of another portion of a diesel forklift vehicle in relation to which the invention can be attached for interaction or combination therewith.

FIG. 12C is a photographic illustration of another portion of a diesel forklift vehicle showing an area inside the driver's area or cabin of such a forklift for installation of the support member of the invention, showing a conventional rotatable spool component or member thereon.

FIG. 13 is a photograph of a rear right-side perspective view, illustrating another preferred embodiment of the present invention which can be utilized when elevated positioning is necessary or desired, or in such other primary or secondary positions.

FIG. 14A is a photograph of a right side perspective view of the embodiment of the invention of FIG. 13, showing the installation of a spool component with which the invention interacts, or is utilized in combination, therewith.

FIG. 14B is another side perspective view of the invention illustrated in FIG. 14A, for clarity and full view thereof.

FIG. 15A is a photograph of a left side perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 13, showing the installation of a spool and an illustrative example of lumber loaded on the rack members of the intention.

FIG. 15B is a photograph of a rear perspective view of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 15A, for clarity.

FIG. 16A is a photograph of a rear perspective view of the embodiment of the present invention of FIG. 8; showing, for clarity, the connection of the spool support member to one of the rack members of the present invention.

FIG. 16B is a photograph of an enlarged side perspective view of the connection portion between the support member and the rack member shown in FIG. 16A, for clarity.

FIG. 17 is a photographic illustration of a left-side, elevated perspective view of another preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 sets forth a photographic illustration of a rear, left-side perspective view of FIG. 17.

REFERENCE NUMBERS

10   Present Invention, Wood And Elongate Member Transport Rack
     System And Tie Spool Mounting Bracket, or “Rack System”
11   Forklift Vehicle (Exemplar)
11R  Rearward Portions of (11)
11LP Exemplar Example Of A Conventional Liquid Propane Tank
12   first rack member
11W  Wood or Elongate Member Transport Load
14   surface beam portion
15A  first end of (14)
15B  second end of (14)
16   side beam portion of (12)
17A  first end of (16)
17B  second end of (16)
18   base plate of (14)
19   bolting holes of (18)
20   first U-Bolt of (18)
22   second U-Bolt of (18)
21   first U-Bolt Nuts of (20)
23   second U-Bolt Nuts of (22)
25   overhead guard structure of (11)
24   installment holes of side beam portion (16)
24A  installment bolt for (24)
24B  installment bolt for (24)
25A  first selected position on overhead guard (25)
26   spool support bracket member
28   connection shaft (or portion) of (26)
28A  first end of (28)
28B  second end of (28)
29   attachment holes of (28)
30   support shaft (portion) of (26)
30A  first end of (30)
30B  second end of (30)
31   spool member
31T  Tying Material
32   axle member
33A  base diameter of (32)
33B  central axle diameter of (32)
33C  threaded portion of (32)
34   washer member
35   axle securing member (means) (wingnut, clip, etc.)
36   second rack member
38   surface beam portion of (36)
39A  first end of (38)
39B  second end of (38)
40   side beam portion of (36)
41A  first end of (40)
41B  second end of (40)
42   base plate of (38)
43   bolting holes of (42)
44   first U-Bolt of (42)
46   second U-Bolt of (42)
45   first U-Bolt Nuts of (44)
47   second U-Bolt Nuts of (46)
25B  second selected position on overhead guard (25)
50A  backup support member
50B  further backup support member

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The following description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention is made in reference to the accompanying illustrations, set forth as drawing and photographic figures which constitute preselected illustrated examples of the elements and functions of the present invention, among many other examples existing within the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Referring now to the drawing and photograph illustrations herein, FIGS. 1 through 7 and FIGS. 8A through 18, respectively; there is shown a Wood And Elongate Member Transport Rack System And Tie Spool Mounting bracket, 10, also referred to herein as the Rack System 10.

The Rack System 10 is provided in a preferred embodiment with the first rack member 12. The rack member 12 has a surface beam portion 14 having first and second ends, respectively 15A and 15B. The first rack member 12 also has the side beam portion 16, having its first and second ends, 17A and 17B, respectively. The first end 17A of the side beam 16 is connected or attached (either in parts or integrally) to the second end 15B of the surface beam portion 14.

The first end 15A of the surface beam portion 14 is provided with a base plate 18; as illustrated by examples in FIGS. 2, 3, 5, 7, 8A, 8B, 10A, 11, 13, 14A, 14B, and 17; along with elements described above of the first rack member 12. These examples illustrate the base plate 18 as being both flat and curved to wrap around, at least in part, a beam of an overhead guard 25 of a forklift vehicle 11 with which it interacts. It will be appreciated that the base plate 18 may be utilized in a number of different configurations or shapes for the purpose of best utilizing, and taking advantage of, the overhead guard 25-surfacing available, for secure connection with such an overhead guard.

The base plate 18 is provided with a number; usually about 2 (two) to six (6), but preferably 4 (four) bolting holes 19, for securing the base plate 18; and, therefore, the first rack member 12 to which it is connected, to a first selected position 25A, on one section of the overhead guard 25A of the guard 25 of a forklift vehicle 11; as illustrated by example in FIGS. 2, 5, 8A, and 10A and other illustrations, by example, herein. The base plate 18 can best be positioned for connection to the overhead guard 25 in a number of preselected positions, which is discussed later in more detail, herein.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the base plate 18 is secured to the overhead guard 25 by utilizing a first U-Bolt 20 and a second U-Bolt 22, passed through the bolting holes 19 and secured, respectively, by first U-Bolt Nuts 21 and second U-Bolt Nuts 23; as illustrated by example in FIG. 10A, and other illustrations herein. Each of the U-Bolts 20 and 22 can be square or rectangularly shaped or configured to best provide positive securing function to the given, or existing available, shape of the overhead guard 25 which may be encountered in a given forklift vehicle 11.

The side beam portion 16 of the first rack member 12, in preferred embodiments of the invention, is provided with installment holes 24; as shown by example in FIGS. 2 though 5, and other illustrations.

The Rack System 10 is additionally provided with a removable, or releasable, spool support bracket member 26. The spool support 26 is provided with its connection shaft, or portion, 28; and its support shaft, or portion, 30. The connection shaft 28 has first and second ends 28A and 28B; and the support shaft 30 has first and second ends 30A and 30B. The first end 28A of the shaft 28 has, and defines, attachment holes 29 for register and connection, or attachment, with the installment holes 24 of the side beam 16 of the first rack member 12.

The spool support 26 is further provided with an axle member 32, illustrated, by example, in FIG. 6 and other illustrations; having a base diameter 33A, a central axle diameter 33B and a threaded portion 33C. The axle member 32 can also be provided in a uniform diameter; or in other shapes or configurations for the purpose of mounting appropriately in relation to a spool 31, with which it interacts, for movement thereof.

The spool support 26 is attached or connected, in parts or integrally, to a general area or portion where the connection shaft 28 and the support shaft 30 come together; as illustrated by example in FIGS. 2, 5, 6, 8A and 8B. As configured, designed, attached or installed; the axle 32 is positioned to represent a z-axis in relation or reference to the attached connection and support shafts 28 and 30 which positionally, generally or substantially, represent an x-axis and a y-axis along positionally imaginary Cartesian Coordinates. Other angles and positioning can be utilized to best take advantage of the layout, positional arrangement or topography of the rear portion of a forklift vehicle 11.

Further, in preferred embodiments, the axle member 32 functions in interaction with a number of different types of spool members 31; shown by example in the illustrations; which are axially and rotatably installed on the axle member 32 for use, in interaction therewith, in providing easily accessible tying or wrapping materials in positional relation to the rear portion of the forklift vehicle 11; and in convenient positional relation to the first and second rack members, themselves, 12 and 36, of the present invention.

Also, in preferred embodiments, the installed spool member 31 is secured on the axle 32 by the washer member 34 and the axle securing member 35, which can be a wingnut and clip or other type of appropriate securing means or member among many such securing means available. This is illustrated, by example, in FIGS. 3 and 6.

The Rack System 10 is further provided with a second rack member, having the surface beam portion 38 with its first and second ends 39A and 39B; and the side beam portion 40, having its first and second ends 41A and 41B. The first end 41A of the side beam 40 is attached, integrally or in parts, to the second end 39b of the surface beam 38.

The first end 39A of the surface beam 38 is provided with the base plate 42, as illustrated by example in FIG. 10B. The base plate 42 defines and has bolting holes 43, for accepting a first U-bolt (or square bolt, etc.) 44 and a second U-Bolt (or square bolt) 46; for securement with first and second U-Bolt Nuts 45 and 47. In this regard, one can select a first position 25A, among other preselected installation positions, as shown by example in FIGS. 7, 10B, 17, 18, and other illustrations herein; and a second position 25B, preselected among other installation positions in relation to the overhead guard 25 (or other such positions available or adoptable or adaptable on other types of fork lift units (for example, a diesel fork lift unit shown in FIGS. 12A, 12B and 12C. Examples, among many existing, of installation in the second position 25B are shown in FIGS. 13, 15A and 15B, among other illustrations herein. This second position 25B selection can permit easy retrofit or adaption of the present invention to installation in such fork lift vehicles such as the Yale vehicle models, or other such units; where little or no space exists between the positional placement of a propane tank or other fuel source 11LP and the position of portions of the overhead guard 25 of a forklift 11; or available areas on other propane or similarly fueled forklifts or diesel or electric fork lift vehicles (see, for example, areas illustrated in FIGS. 12A-12C). Attachment and installation in other respects, herein, is similar to that as earlier described regarding the base plate 18 to position 25A of the overhead guard 25 of a forklift vehicle 11.

In preferred embodiments, the installed positional orientation of the first and second rack members 12 and 36, in relation to one another, is, essentially, parallel and on opposite sides of the rearward portions 11R and overhead guard 25 of a selected forklift vehicle 11; as illustrated, by example only, in FIGS. 2, 3, 7, 9, 13, 14A, 14B 15A, 15B, 17, and other illustrations shown by example herein.

Additionally, the scope and spirit of the present invention include a number of types of shapes and dimensioning with regard to the structural elements of the invention discussed. In part this has previously been discussed with regard to integral or attached member pieces regarding the first rack member 12, the spool support bracket member 26 and the second rack member 36.

Other aspects, along these lines, exist, and are part of and included within the scope and spirit of the present invention.

For example, the U-Bolts 20, 22, 44 and 46 are preferably one-quarter inch (0.25″ or ¼″) in size with corresponding nuts 21, 23, 45 and 47. Also, as discussed above the bolts 20, 22, 44 and 46 can be square, rectangular or otherwise arced, or curvilinear in shape and configuration. Additionally, many other diverse means, methods or systems of attachment can be utilized to detachably or integrally secure each of the first and second rack members, 12 and 36, respectively, to installment portion, portions, area or areas, or positioning in relation to, or combination with, a forklift vehicle, and/or in relation to an overhead guard structure 25 (or similar such structure); on or in relation to a forklift vehicle 11. In this regard, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, or in this technology, that though such attachment or installment means could include means requiring the drilling of holes or other areas within or a part of an overhead guard structure 25; Federal and/or state provisions, regulations and/or statutes require that structures of whatever nature be attached to an overhead guard area by means other than drilling a hole, or in like manner violating the structural integrity of an overhead guard member, structure or area on a forklift. Therefore, the present invention envisions within the scope thereof many diverse means of attachment, connection, combination and/or installment of its rack members 12 and 36; or the installment of respective (or single) rack members; or, by virtue of respective such installments of a plurality thereof (i.e., 2 or more such rack members); or by installment of respective or multiple spool support bracket member(s) 26.

The following manufacturers, among others, make forklift vehicles (diesel, gasoline and/or LP or Liquid Propane-fueled, as well as electrically powered vehicles), with which the present invention can interact through connection, attachment or retrofitted installation, or in manufactured combination with; include: HYSTER(TM), CLARK(TM), YALE(TM), NISSAN(TM), KOMATSU(TM), KALMER A/CDAEWOO(TM), CATERPILLAR(TM), MASTERCRAFT (TM), TOYOTA(TM), and MITSUBISHI(TM) (with “(TM)” designating the status of these word marks as ‘Trademarks’ owned by each respective company). In this regard various surfaces, portions or areas are available with regard to these vehicles for installation of the present invention. The most frequent examples of such installations will constitute attachment, interaction or combination of members of the present invention with an overhead guard (25) member or similar element on such vehicles and/or in such attachment in positional relation to rear surface areas of a forklift vehicle (11). For examples thereof, see FIGS. 1, 6D, 7, 8A-16A, and 17-18.

In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, the spool support bracket member 26 is attached or connected to an inside rear wall of portion of a cabin (or driver's area) of a forklift (11), for mounting of a spool member 31 and/or tying material (or similar or other coiled securing material) in readily accessible positional relation to such cabin or driver's area of a forklift vehicle (11); as illustrated, by example, in FIG. 12C.

Further, the types of bolts or connections 24A and 24B used to connect the spool support bracket member 26 to the first rack member 12, in reference to the installment holes 24 and the attachment holes 29, when this connection is not integral; include 2- 5/16 inch bolts having standard or course threading. However, ¼ to ½ inch bolts, as well as other sizes, can be utilized. Such bolts and corresponding nuts are utilized to register with and connect attachment holes 29 and installment holes 24; so that, in preferred embodiments, the connection shaft 28 of the spool support 26 can be securely, but releasably, or detachably, connected/attached to the side beam 16 of the first rack member 12, as shown, by example, in FIGS. 16A and 16B, and other drawing and photographic illustrations. In this regard, the present invention is so designed, and includes within the scope and spirit thereof, the ability to conveniently disconnect the spool support 26; so that the present Rack System 10 can be utilized with just its first and second rack members 12 and 36, where work requirements make this more convenient, necessary or desired. This preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated, by example, in FIGS. 17 and 18. It will be understood that the height of the rack members 12 and 36, when so desired, can be selectively varied; as illustrated by example, in FIGS. 13, 14A, 14B, 15A, 15B, 16A, 16B, 17 and 18; and that the functional and structural aspects in this regard are encompassed in the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Additionally, the threaded portion 33C of the axle member 32 can be a ½ inch standard bolt with course thread or a number of metric sizes with fine threading. Also, a ¼ inch to ⅞ inch bold can be utilized as well as a number of other sizes; metric or standard; fine or course thread. Other examples of the axle 32 are illustrated in FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E and 6F.

Further, the washer member 34 is preferably about two (2) inches in overall, or largest, diameter; and has and defines an axial center hole having a diameter of about one (1) inch; so that it can be utilized between the axle securing member 35 (such a wingnut, clip or like, or other, securing means) to more securely and uniformly retain a spool member which can be mounted on the axle member 32, with which the present invention interacts. This is illustrated, by example only, in FIGS. 3 and 6A.

Additionally, exemplar dimensions for the spool support member 26 are set forth in FIG. 6F, as an example, only, of how this member can be dimensioned in its manufacture or fabrication. Many other sizes and dimensions can be utilized within the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Also, the angle between the surface beam 14 and the side beam portion 16, of the first rack member 12; as well as the that between the surface beam 38 and side beam portion 40 of the second rack member 36; can be from about 70 degrees to about 110 degrees, though illustrative, exemplar illustrations in the drawing and photographic figures, herein, show the angles to be about, or generally at, 90 degrees; and this is for many purposes the preferred angulation thereof. It is also within the scope and spirit of the present invention to set the angle between the connection shaft 28 and the support shaft 30 of the spool support member 26 at an angle of about 80 degrees to about 110 degrees, or within a small to medium range beyond a 90 degree angle; and this is illustrated by example in FIGS. 1, 6A, 6B, 6D, 6E, 8A, 8B and 9; with a generally 90 degree angulation being illustrated by example, in preferred embodiments of the present invention, in FIGS. 2, 3, 5, 6F and 7. The angulation, in preferred embodiments of the invention with regard to the angle between the axle member 32 and the support shaft 30 is at a generally transverse angle in positional relation thereto, but along another axis in relation to the support shaft 30 and the connection shaft 28 of the spool support member 26, as illustrated in the examples set forth in the drawing and photographic figures herein. Other angles within this range can be utilized in response to mounting different sizes of spools with which the present invention interacts, or is used in connection or combination with in preferred embodiments of the present invention.

Further, as discussed in part above herein; the Rack System 10 can be positioned and secured at different levels or heights in relation to the attachment of the rack members 12 and 36 to the overhead guard 25; as illustrated, by example, in FIGS. 22 through 26, and other illustrations herein.

It will be noted in the photographic illustrations at FIGS. 6F, 8A, 8B, 9, 11, 14A, 14B, 15A, 15B, 16A, 16B, 17 and 18; that channeled metal, steel or metal alloy is utilized in the fabrication and structure of the rack members 12 and 36, and the spool support 26; using in parts the channeled, grooved or square or U-like portions of such steel or metal, etc., for the various connections described herein; for example, as shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B. Whereas, the drawing illustrations of FIGS. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, and 6E show the use of flat, more linear-shaped, surfaces for construction and connection of the elements of the present invention. It will, therefore, be understood that the spirit and scope of the present invention will include the use of various shapes of materials, and surface configurations, to construct or fabricate the elements discussed herein of the Rack System 10; with regard to the rack members 12 and 36, the spool support member 26, and the associated parts, elements and holes discussed herein with regard thereto.

It is also with the scope and spirit of the present invention to utilize a wide range of metals, metal alloys, steel, graphite, polymers, glass or polymer alloys, or composites of various substances or materials in the structure, fabrication or manufacture of the elements, and associated parts or portions, of the present invention.

Additionally, in preferred embodiments, the rack members 12 and 36, and the spool support 26, are provided with backup support members 50A and 50B; as shown, by example, in FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 6B, 6D, 6E, 7, 8A, 8B, and 9, and other figure illustrations herein.

Accordingly, when the claims are presented in this case in the non-provisional application to be filed in relation to this matter; they will be intended to cover all changes, modifications and alternative options and embodiments falling within the true breath, scope and spirit of the present invention. The reader will, therefore, be requested, at the time of such claim presentation in relation to this matter, to determine the scope of the present invention by such presented claims and their legal equivalent, and not by the examples which have been given.

Claims

1. A transport rack system for use in interaction with a forklift vehicle, said transport rack system comprising:

a rack member;

said rack member being attached to an overhead guard support position located on a fork lift vehicle in positional orientation and relation to a back portion of such a fork lift vehicle with which it interacts.

2. The transport rack system of claim 1, wherein: said rack system further comprises means for supporting a dispenser of tying material in proximate positional orientation and relation to the rack member.

3. A transport rack system of claim 2, wherein, said rack system further comprises:

a spool support member;

said spool support member being attached to said rack member.

4. The transport rack system of claim 3, wherein: said spool support comprises:

a first shaft member;

a second shaft member; and

an axle member;

said first shaft member being attached to said second shaft member at an angle in relation to one another; and said axle member being attached in positional relation to the first and second shaft members.

5. The transport rack system of claim 1, wherein: the rack member comprises a surface portion and a side portion, connected and attached to one another along an angular positional orientation.

6. The transport rack system of claim 4, wherein: the rack member comprises a surface portion and a side portion, connected and attached to one another along an angular positional orientation.

7. The transport rack system of claim 6, wherein the surface portion of the rack member further comprises:

first and second ends,

a base member, attached to the first end of said surface portion, and

means, defined by the side portion of the rack member, for attachment of the surface portion thereof.

8. The transport rack system of claim 7, wherein the base member of the first end of said rack member further comprises means, cooperating therewith, for removably attaching the rack member to a preselected position on a portion of an overhead guard area of a forklift vehicle.

9. The transport rack system of claim 8, wherein said means for attaching the rack member to a preselected position on a portion of an overhead guard area of a forklift vehicle, being a coupling member attaching to such an overhead guard area without the requirement of defining or drilling holes in such an overhead guard area;

said coupling member further being attached to such an overhead guard area, such that it can be released and moved to one of a plurality of positions in relation to such an overhead guard.

10. The transport rack system of claim 4, wherein:

the first shaft having first and second ends,

the first end thereof defining means for complementing attachment of the rack member,

and the second end thereof being attached to the second shaft.

11. The transport rack system of claim 8, wherein:

the axle member is attached to a connection portion of said first and second shaft members, such that it extends along a positional axis different from that of the first shaft member and the second shaft member as connected.

12. The transport rack system of claim 4, wherein the first shaft member is attached or connected to the second shaft member at a substantially transverse, perpendicular or 90 degree angle, such that the first shaft member and the second shaft member, when so connected, represent an imaginary x-axis and y-axis in positional relationship to one another, on imaginary Cartesian coordinates.

13. The transport rack system of claim 12, wherein the axle member is attached to a portion along the first and second shaft members, as connected, such that said axle member is placed in a position in relation to the imaginary x-axis and y-axis of the first and second shaft members, so as to positionally represent a z-axis in relation thereto, thereby constituting a position along a different plane or axis in relation thereto.

14. The transport rack system of claim 9, wherein said means for attaching the rack member to a preselected position on a portion of an overhead guard area of a forklift vehicle, being a U-bolt, or plurality of such U-bolts, each having at least two end members, respectively receptive of a nut or other such securing member.

15. A rack system for use in interaction with a forklift vehicle having an overhead guard structure and a cabin or driver's area, said rack system comprising:

a first rack member;

a second rack member; and

a spool support member;

each of said first and second rack members having at least a surface member.

16. The rack system of claim 15, wherein, at least one of each of said rack members, further comprises a side member, attached to the surface member at an angle of from about 45 degrees to about 90 degrees.

17. The rack system of claim 16, wherein, said surface member having a base plate at an end thereof for attachment in interaction with a forklift overhead guard structure, the base plate defining a plurality of holes for receiving a bolting member therethrough,

the rack member defining and further comprising a means for attachment of the spool support member.

18. The rack system of claim 15, wherein, said spool support member having a connection shaft and a support shaft, attached to one another, the connection shaft defining and comprising complementing means for attaching said connection shaft to at least one of the rack members.

19. A rack and dispenser support system for use in combination with a forklift vehicle having an overhead guard structure, said overhead guard structure having and being supported by at least one overhead guard support member, the overhead guard structure being oriented in positional relationship to a driver's area of said forklift vehicle, said rack and dispenser support system comprising a first rack member; a second rack member; and a dispenser support member attached to at least one of said first and second rack members; each of said rack members being positionably attached to a respective portion of the least one overhead guard support member.

20. The rack and dispenser support system of claim 19, wherein, at least one of said first and second rack members further comprises a surface portion and a side portion being attached to one another; said dispenser support member further comprising a first member, a second member and means for mounting a dispenser of typing or binding material in positional relation to the first and second members thereof.