Gangway, Ramp, Or Dock Leveler Patents (Class 14/69.5)
  • Patent number: 12116741
    Abstract: Disclosed is a transfer system and method that enables the use of the port area and the elimination of the negative effects of traffic in the city, by making the landing or boarding operations of cruise ships underground in the cruise ports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2024
    Inventors: Ali Pusat, Figen Ayan, Necil Adiyaman
  • Patent number: 12109858
    Abstract: An autonomous electric road vehicle is transported by a railcar for automated railed travel on a railway. During automated railed travel, the railcar is powered by the autonomous road vehicle's main power source and driven by the autonomous road vehicle's driving automation control system. A driver control of the autonomous electric road vehicle allows a human driver to apply emergency braking during both road and railed travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2024
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2024
    Inventor: Mordechai Teicher
  • Patent number: 12000382
    Abstract: A platform assembly for a hub of a wind turbine is configured to provide a working surface inside the hub. The platform assembly includes a first platform coupled to a hub access structure, wherein the hub access structure extends in an axial direction between a nacelle of the wind turbine and the hub and provides access from the nacelle to the hub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2022
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2024
    Assignee: Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy A/S
    Inventor: Nicolai Kristoffersen
  • Patent number: 11767644
    Abstract: A module for construction of recreation track, especially bicycle one, having a framework on which the modules are being arranged, whereas the module has upper part intended for riding on it, constituting non-ruled surface, and in the top view it has tetragon shape with one rounded side, the first side wall and the second side wall, whereas the first side wall and the second side wall create base of the module, and the left front wall and opposite to it right front wall, located between the first side wall and the second side wall, characteristic in that, the left front wall and the right front wall form in the top view an acute angle (?), and the first side wall and the second side wall form obtuse angles with the upper part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2023
    Assignee: PARKITECT s.r.o.
    Inventor: Erik Burgon
  • Patent number: 11643288
    Abstract: An integrated shipping ramp for multi-package unit loads including a ramp portion configured to guide an upper package down from atop a lower package; and a lower package attachment portion comprising a corner board for insertion into a cavity of the lower package, wherein inserting the corner board into the cavity of the lower package secures the lower package attachment portion to the lower package, wherein in a shipping configuration the ramp portion is integrated with a multi-package unit load comprising the upper package and the lower package, and wherein in a dismounting configuration the ramp portion provides an inclined platform from a top of the lower package to a height below the top of the lower package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2023
    Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Tate T. Harnack, Kael B. Eddy, Michael J. Macpherson, Steven C. Erickson
  • Patent number: 11577923
    Abstract: A portable dock plate which includes a planar ramp that has opposing side members, the ramp also has a top end and a bottom end, the top end includes a lip portion. The dock plate has a first wheel assembly and a second wheel assembly. The first wheel assembly includes a wheel, wheel lock linkage, a first locking pin with corresponding first locking pin holes, a lip-lowering apparatus and a lip-raising apparatus. The second wheel assembly has a wheel and a second locking pin with corresponding second locking pin holes. The dock plate also includes opposing handrails which are connected to the opposing side members, each handrail includes a moveable lever-handle for movement and placement of the dock plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2023
    Assignee: Leum Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Grant Leum, Eric Demerath
  • Patent number: 11354605
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an automated cross-dock management system configured to optimize moves on a cross-dock. The automated cross-dock management system uses inbound manifest data to calculate ordered move instructions for all inbound movable platforms, inbound modular decks, and inbound freight. The ordered move instructions can be assigned to be carried out by manual conveyance vehicles or by automated guided vehicles based upon a plurality of criteria. The automated cross-dock management system is also able to detect damaged freight on the cross-dock using a combination of streams from video cameras.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2022
    Assignee: INNOVATIVE LOGISTICS, INC.
    Inventors: Patrick Sullivan, Jefferson Maldonado, Shannon Lively, Kerry Jenkins, Jonathan McCormack, Jeremy Sloan
  • Patent number: 11338738
    Abstract: A tread device for a retractable step access system for a vehicle includes a tread and at least one wiper device. The wiper device is coupled or couplable movably to the tread and configured in the form of a flap and is arranged and designed to wipe off dirt and to form a ramp by lying, under the force of gravity, on the retractable step. The wiper device is arranged and designed to lie on the retractable step both in an operating state, in which the retractable step is arranged protruding from under the tread, and also in a rest state, in which the retractable step is arranged underneath the tread.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2022
    Inventors: Johann Wilflinger, Stefan Guggenbichler, Ricarda Leimhofer
  • Patent number: 11274509
    Abstract: A pipe handling system for transporting pipe between a horizontal storage location and a rig floor, where the pipe handling system can include an adjustable length ramp assembly which can be adjusted by installing one or more extension sections between bottom and top sections The sections can include interfacing features that can align the sections with each other when they are attached together in the ramp assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2022
    Assignee: Nabors Drilling Technologies USA, Inc.
    Inventors: David Do, Travis Burke, Geoffrey Fletcher
  • Patent number: 11273999
    Abstract: A modular loading dock that includes a planar ramp member with lower and upper ends. The upper end abuts a preexisting structure and the lower end has a lower edge with a lip, the lip is able to be activated between an extended/engaged position to contact a truck bed. The ramp member has an at least thirteen foot long hydraulically-adjustable ramp section with an integrated dock leveler, the entire length of the ramp section is able to be moved between an upward and downward position. The loading dock also includes a base with top and bottom surfaces, the top surface has an opening to receive a dock leveler into the opening and a dock housing consisting of a modular frame mounted onto the base in sections. The length and adjustability of the planar ramp member allows accommodation of large-sized trailers as well as smaller-in-size delivery trucks and vans.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2022
    Assignee: Leum Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Grant Leum, Eric Demerath
  • Patent number: 11117044
    Abstract: A ramp system includes a ramp unit, a sliding rod, and a connecting unit. The ramp unit includes a first ramp having an upper edge and a lower edge spaced from the upper edge in a vertical direction. The sliding rod includes a sliding portion, a first leg, and a second leg. The sliding portion extends from an end of the sliding rod to another end of the sliding rod. The first leg and the second leg are connected to two different locations of the sliding portion. The connecting unit includes a column and a connecting member. The column is connected to the lower edge of the first ramp. The connecting member is connected to the upper edge of the first ramp. The connecting member includes a coupling ring mounted around the first leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2021
    Inventor: Wang-Chuan Chen
  • Patent number: 11040609
    Abstract: An electric vehicle includes a vehicle cabin, a battery, a drive unit, and an end doorway. The vehicle cabin is provided with a floor having a flat floor surface, and configured such that an occupant is able to be in the vehicle cabin in any one of a seated position and a standing position. The battery is accommodated under the floor of the vehicle cabin. The drive unit is provided on one of a front side and a rear side with respect to the battery in a vehicle longitudinal direction. The end doorway is provided in a longitudinally-end wall of the vehicle cabin, and provided on the other one of the front side and the rear side with respect to the battery in the vehicle longitudinal direction. The end doorway is configured such that the occupant is able to get on and off the electric vehicle through the end doorway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2021
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Hara, Ayano Tsuruta
  • Patent number: 11035135
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates systems and methods involving movable/adjustable guardrails. An example system includes a frame weldment and a rail assembly attached to the frame weldment. The rail assembly includes a first post and a second post. The base portion of the first post is rotatably coupled to a first pivot point of the frame weldment and the base portion of the second post is rotatably coupled to a second pivot point of the frame weldment. The system also includes a top rail rotatably coupled between a top portion of the first post and a top portion of the second post. The system yet further includes an actuator configured to controllably adjust a configuration of the rail assembly between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration with respect to the frame weldment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2021
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Tuan-Vu T. Phan, Tyler J. Shelton, Scott L. Rost
  • Patent number: 11001397
    Abstract: A modular ramp for creating a ski jump on a modern naval vehicles is provided. Generally, the system allows a user to manipulate a ramp surface in a way that best suits the needs of the user at that time. The system generally comprises a framework, interlinking tracks, and control arm. The control arm manipulates the position of the framework, which in turn manipulates the surface created by the interlinking tracks. The modular ramp may also comprise mechanical joints and a hinge, which may allow the surface to be manipulated in multiple directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2021
    Inventor: Larry Utt
  • Patent number: 10988937
    Abstract: A method or system for constructing a non-slip ramp having at least two sloped ramp stringers and a starter wedge having a sloped side and an open side. A non-slip deck board is slid into the open side of the starter wedge and at least two tread plates, each providing spacing between two adjacent non-slip deck boards, each tread plate having a flat top section with a substantially L-shaped section attached perpendicular to the flat top section, with the bottom of the L fitting below one of the adjacent deck boards. The at least two tread plates are attached to the at least two sloped ramp stringers and an end-cap attached to a last non-slip deck board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2021
    Inventor: Russell Erickson
  • Patent number: 10975528
    Abstract: A roundabout for vehicular traffic is provided from a plurality of modular blocks arranged in a generally circular roundabout pattern and affixed to a roadway or ground surface at an intersection of vehicle roadways. Roundabouts can be formed in any desired diameter. In some embodiments, the modular blocks can have a trapezoidal plan shape laid out in concentric rings. The trapezoidal shaped blocks can be cut from a length of board having a constant width and thickness. The modular blocks can be provided as a kit of parts delivered to worksite at an intersection of vehicle roadways where a roundabout is desired. Splitter islands, sidewalks, and curbing of blocks having appropriate shapes can also be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Assignee: ZKxKX, LLC
    Inventors: Jerome P. Fanucci, Aram Stepanian, Adam Lanik
  • Patent number: 10947068
    Abstract: A telescopic plate includes a sliding rail structure (10), a rotation structure (20), a drive structure (30) including a motor (31), a circulation structure (40) including an upper connection member (41) and a lower connection member (42), and a support frame (50) mounted on the telescopic sliding rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: SHENZHEN FULONG INTELLIGENT TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Fulai Lv, Wenlong Lv
  • Patent number: 10912528
    Abstract: A positron emission tomography (PET) detector configuration for a combined PET and computed tomography (CT) imaging system, wherein the CT system includes an annular cavity. The configuration includes a backplane having a neutral axis and an aperture. In addition, the configuration includes at least one PET detector located about the aperture, wherein a center of mass of the at least one PET detector is in-line with the neutral axis and wherein a portion of the at least one PET detector is located in the annular cavity thereby reducing a footprint of the combined PET and CT imaging system. Further, the location of the at least one PET detector reduces the strength needed for maintaining structural integrity of the backplane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2021
    Assignee: Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc.
    Inventor: James L. Corbeil
  • Patent number: 10724181
    Abstract: A roundabout for vehicular traffic is provided from a plurality of modular blocks arranged in a generally circular roundabout pattern and affixed to a roadway or ground surface at an intersection of vehicle roadways. Roundabouts can be formed in any desired diameter. In some embodiments, the modular blocks can have a trapezoidal plan shape laid out in concentric rings. The trapezoidal shaped blocks can be cut from a length of board having a constant width and thickness. The modular blocks can be provided as a kit of parts delivered to worksite at an intersection of vehicle roadways where a roundabout is desired. Splitter islands, sidewalks, and curbing of blocks having appropriate shapes can also be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Assignee: ZKxKZ, LLC
    Inventors: Jerome P. Fanucci, Aram Stepanian, Adam Lanik
  • Patent number: 10718690
    Abstract: Provided is a target driving object for carrying out a crash test with a colliding object for a crash prevention system test, and more particularly, a target driving object in which a sloped skirt is provided on the outside of a main body including a drive module and a communication module, thereby blocking a substantial impact and preventing occurrence of a breakdown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2020
    Assignee: Kookmin University Industry Academy Cooperation Foundation
    Inventors: Jay Il Jeong, Yeong Geol Park
  • Patent number: 10710824
    Abstract: A ramp system includes a rail with an outer wall that defines an extent of the ramp in a width dimension. The rail includes an inner wall that is connected to the outer wall at a curb head. The inner wall extends away from the curb head at an angle relative to the outer wall. A side wall is oriented parallel to the outer wall. A lower end of the side wall is connected to a lower end of the outer wall by a bottom wall. A shelf is connected between an upper end of the side wall and a lower end of the inner wall. The shelf extension is connected between the lower end of the inner wall and the outer wall. A deck is secured to the shelf.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2020
    Assignee: Discount Ramps.com LLC
    Inventors: Robert Krolski, Richard Beilstein, Lawrence Marmon
  • Patent number: 10577754
    Abstract: Described herein is a modular skate system that includes at least one modular skate component comprising a major surface, a core comprising a body formed from a first material, an outer layer formed from a second material, the outer layer surrounding at least a portion of the core, wherein the first material is different from the second material, and wherein the major surface comprises the outer layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2020
    Assignee: KRYPTON DESIGN LLC
    Inventors: Michael Christopher Grobinski, Daniel Slade Lykens
  • Patent number: 10561899
    Abstract: The present invention is a responsive exercise device comprising a base having a first end and a second end, wherein the base has a plurality of compartments, a plurality of measurement sensors, a plurality of support panels secured to the base over the first set of the plurality of compartments, a plurality of positioning rails secured to the plurality of support panels, wherein the positioning rails have a plurality of openings sized to fit a bearing, a plurality of bearings positioned within the openings of the plurality of rails and between the support panels, wherein the plurality of bearings are retained in the openings and freely rotate; a first spring assembly positioned distal to the first end of the base, a second spring assembly positioned distal to the second of the base comprising, a plurality of plates positioned over the plurality of bearing assemblies and mechanically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2020
    Inventors: Tiffaney Florentine, Eugene Ernest Javier
  • Patent number: 10518990
    Abstract: An outdoor mobile loading dock having a frame and a planar ramp member. The frame including two opposing side rails and support beams, the support beams having a first end and a second end, the first end secured to one of the opposing side rails and the second end secured to the second opposing side rail. The planar ramp member having a lower end and an upper end, the upper end including an upper edge having a lip and an upper ramp portion adjacent the upper edge. The upper ramp member being substantially parallel to the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Inventor: Grant Leum
  • Patent number: 10513351
    Abstract: A passenger boarding bridge comprises: a walkway section which is provided at an outer tunnel of adjacent tunnels, and is movable between a walkway position and a non-walkway position located under the walkway position; and a plurality of rotary members arranged along the lengthwise direction of the outer tunnel, each of the plurality of rotary members being rotatable around a vertical rotation axis between a first rotation position at which the rotary member supports an end portion of the walkway section while at the walkway position and a second rotation position at which the rotary member does not support the end portion. In a case where at least one of adjacent rotary members of the plurality of rotary members is at the second rotation position, the adjacent rotary members partially overlap with each other when viewed in the width direction of the walkway section or in the vertical direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2019
    Assignee: SHINMAYWA INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventors: Kenji Matsumoto, So Hirohata, Shoichi Kawabata, Takahiro Yoshimoto
  • Patent number: 10501002
    Abstract: A vehicle accessory including a platform, first and second sidewalls, first and second eaves, first and second pluralities of receivers, a plurality of canopy-supports, a canopy, and canopy fasteners able to affix the canopy to the plurality of canopy-supports. In an undeployed configuration, the vehicle accessory may function as a support for a payload. The first sidewall and first eave may be pivotably attached to the left edge of the platform, while the second sidewall and second may be pivotably attached to the right side of the platform. In a deployed configuration, the sidewalls and eaves may be pivoted outwards and affixed by attaching the plurality of canopy-supports to the first and second pluralities of receivers, thereby forming a camper configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2019
    Inventor: John Glenn Graul
  • Patent number: 10500470
    Abstract: Systems and methods to practice putting are provided. In one embodiment, the system includes a framework, actuators mounted to the framework, a control system, a computing device, and an artificial green. The control system is coupled to the actuators and controls actuation of the actuators. The computing device includes a display for viewing mapped green profiles and is configured to communicate with the control system. The artificial green includes a putting surface with a cup defined therein, wherein the artificial green is positioned over the actuators. With this arrangement, a user can select a putting region, after which, the computing device can translate and transfer the mapped data of the putting region to the controllers to actuate the actuators to, therefore, adjust the putting surface of the artificial green to correspond to the mapped green profile of an actual green.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 1, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2019
    Assignee: DERON, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey G. Flammer
  • Patent number: 10494770
    Abstract: A paving element includes upper and lower surfaces and one or more drainage channels extending through the paving element between the upper and lower surfaces. The drainage channels include a substantially concave or cupule shaped upper portion, provided on the upper surface of the paving element, and a channel from the concave portion through to the lower surface of the bottom surface of the paving element. The drainage channels can be complete, when provided in the interior of the paving element, or partial, when provided along the sides or perimeter of the paving element. The partial channels are completed when the paving element is placed adjacent another paving element when forming a pavement. The drainage channels are adapted to facilitate the cleaning process of the channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2019
    Assignee: F. von Langsdorff Licensing Limited
    Inventors: Harald von Langsdorff, William James
  • Patent number: 10470950
    Abstract: A retractable ramp system for facilitating mobility-challenged individual's entrance to and exit from a structure, particularly, from a motorized vehicle. The ramp system includes a frame having a front member, a first side member, a second side member, a rear member, and a floor. The rear member is pivotally coupled to the frame between an open position and a closed position. The ramp system includes a first track coupled to the first side member and defining a longitudinal channel therein, and a second track coupled to the second side member and defining a longitudinal channel therein. A ramp is pivotably coupled to the first and second tracks about a pivot axis, and includes a ramp floor, a first side panel, and a second side panel. The system includes a latch to maintain the ramp in a stowed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2019
    Assignee: The Braun Corporation
    Inventors: Aaron Kiser, James Stoner
  • Patent number: 10458080
    Abstract: A gangway comprising a fixed platform. A support structure is connected to the fixed platform in a manner that allows the support structure to rotate with respect to the fixed platform. A releasable position locking assembly that inhibits rotation of the support structure in a raising direction is also provided. The releasable locking assembly includes a closed-loop fluid arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2019
    Assignee: Safe Rack LLC
    Inventors: Jeff W. Reichert, Jeffrey David Scott
  • Patent number: 10415254
    Abstract: The invention relater to a device (1) for helping a wheeled vehicle pass over an obstacle, in particular for a person with impaired mobility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Assignee: MYD“L”
    Inventors: Pierre Belman, Frederic Engler
  • Patent number: 10370207
    Abstract: An outdoor mobile loading dock having a frame and a planar ramp member. The frame including two opposing side rails and support beams, the support beams having a first end and a second end, the first end secured to one of the opposing side rails and the second end secured to the second opposing side rail. The planar ramp member having a lower end and an upper end, the upper end including an upper edge having a lip and an upper ramp portion adjacent the upper edge. The upper ramp member being substantially parallel to the ground and having an open-grate section to facilitate drainage of water through the open-grate section to the ground below, thereby improving vehicle mobility and traction on the planar ramp member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2019
    Inventor: Grant Leum
  • Patent number: 10280637
    Abstract: The load carrying platform shuttle has a static frame that defines a cam surface. A carriage is arranged to telescope into the static frame. A ramp has an outboard edge rotatably connected to the carriage. A cam follower is disposed on the ramp so as to engage with the cam surface. The cam surface and the cam follower cooperate such that an inboard edge of the ramp is automatically maintained at an elevated height whilst the carriage is disposed intermediate of an extended position and a retracted position and such that the inboard edge of the ramp is automatically maintained at a lowered height whilst the carriage is at the retracted position. The static frame is constructed from I-beams that are reinforced to increase their resistance to the bending moment applied by the carriage whilst it is in the extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2019
    Assignee: Gumboots Moninee Pty Limited
    Inventor: Allan Sydney McKeon
  • Patent number: 10202725
    Abstract: A wave-shaped ramp has two ascending platforms and a curved platform. Each ascending platform has a ground end, a tip end, and a slope. The tip end is higher than the ground end. The slope connects the ground end and the tip end. The curved platform is mounted between the two ascending platforms. Two ends of the curved platform are higher than a middle of the curved platform. With the curved platform forming a cavity shape between the two ascending platforms, the wave-shaped ramp provides more varieties in height, and thereby the player can perform more fancy stunts on the wave-shaped ramp. Besides, the wave-shaped ramp is a combination of the ascending platforms and the curved platform, so the wave-shaped ramp is separable and is capable of being stacked for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2019
    Assignee: T. K. CHIN COMPANY LTD.
    Inventor: Howard Chin
  • Patent number: 10179979
    Abstract: A bridge span assembly can include multiple bridge spans, each of which can include a frame, a stabilizing member for engaging with construction equipment, and a coupling joint for attaching the frame to construction equipment with an elongate member. By attaching the bridge span assembly to construction equipment with the stabilizing member and coupling joint, an operator can place the bridge span assembly over an obstacle using only the construction equipment. The construction equipment or other equipment can then safely traverse the obstacle without causing damage to the obstacle or the construction equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2019
    Assignee: Tidy Site Services, LLC
    Inventor: Reid Tamisiea
  • Patent number: 10166459
    Abstract: A modular ramp system includes a ramp component and a connector releasably joined to the ramp component. The ramp component has first and second inclined surfaces and a connecting portion positioned between the first and second inclined surfaces. The connector has a bottom side formed with first and second coupling sections connectible to the connecting portion. The connector is positionable in a first position in which one of the first and second coupling sections is releasably joined to the connecting portion of the ramp component, and the other of the first and second coupling sections is adapted to releasably couple to a ramp or an external structure, and is positionable in a second position in which the first and second coupling sections are releasably joined to the connecting portion of the ramp component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2019
    Inventor: Wang-Chuan Chen
  • Patent number: 10130859
    Abstract: This disclosure presents a training device and return for practice or game play so that when a ball is directed toward the target, the ball can either impact the target face or pass through one of a plurality of holes in the target face. The training device may be adjustable for use with different sized balls and the return may be automated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Inventor: Russell Riley
  • Patent number: 10125459
    Abstract: A telescopic access bridge includes a unit provided therewith, and a method therefor. The telescopic access bridge comprises a base unit, an elevating unit having a first end with a first hinged connection to the base unit and a second end, and a bridge comprising a main bridge part and a telescopic bridge part. The bridge has one end with a second hinged connection to the second end of the elevating unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2018
    Assignee: U-SEA BEHEER B.V.
    Inventor: Hendrik Hessels
  • Patent number: 10118764
    Abstract: A transporting device for transporting a laboratory diagnostic vessel carrier from a first line portion to a second line portion of a conveying line is disclosed. The first line portion is above the second line portion with respect to gravity. The transporting device comprises first and second transporting portions. The first transporting portion is connected to the first line portion and the second transporting portion is connected to the second line portion. The first transporting portion extends in a first direction and the second transporting portion extends in a second direction different from the first direction. The first and second transporting portions transport the laboratory diagnostic vessel carrier by gravity. The first direction comprises at least a first component and the second direction comprises at least a second component. The second component is opposite to the first component. Further, a conveying line comprising such a transporting device is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2018
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Rolf Schnarwiler, Beat Jaeggi
  • Patent number: 10048169
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a climbing test bench for scooters, comprising a middle bridge arranged horizontally and above the ground and a first skew bridge and a second skew bridge which are arranged at both ends of the middle bridge; an upper end of the first skew bridge is hinged with one end of the middle bridge, an upper end of the second skew bridge is hinged with the other end of the middle bridge, a lower end of the first skew bridge and a lower end of the second skew bridge are in contact with the ground, respectively; and a lifting device is arranged below the middle bridge, and the lifting device may drive the middle bridge to rise and fall so that the first skew bridge and the second skew bridge form different tilt angles. Due to light weight of a scooter, it is not desired to provide a truss-frame structure. The arrangement of a lifting device can ensure the stability of the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2018
    Assignee: ZHEJIANG LINIX MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Jin Yao
  • Patent number: 10036550
    Abstract: The traffic cross-guard reflective mat is adapted for use by traffic officers. The traffic cross-guard reflective mat is a highly visible reflective mat that is designed to attract attention from a distance. The traffic officer stands on the traffic cross-guard reflective mat in order to benefit from the attention drawn by the traffic cross-guard reflective mat. The traffic guard reflective mat comprises a mat, a plurality of reflective surfaces and a plurality of lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2018
    Inventor: Derrick Reid
  • Patent number: 10011955
    Abstract: A transport system includes: a pair of first traveling rails (R1) affixed to and laid on a floor (F1); a pair of second traveling rails (R2) laid on another floor (F2) to be able to move in a laying direction thereof; a pair of intermediate traveling rails (RM) each including a first end and a second end, the first end being rotatably connected to an end portion of each of the first traveling rails (R1), the second end being rotatably connected to an end portion of each of the second traveling rails (R2); and a transport dolly (D) which travels on the first traveling rails (R1), the intermediate traveling rails (RM), and the second traveling rails (R2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2018
    Assignee: IHI CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoshihiro Matsuo, Mitsunori Yamane
  • Patent number: 9987542
    Abstract: A green simulation apparatus having a configurable upper surface with a changeable contour may comprise a covering forming the upper surface and a covering support assembly configured to support the covering. The support assembly may comprise a plurality of movable positioning elements having the covering resting thereon and positioned in an array extending in a reference plane and movable along axes extending substantially perpendicular to the reference plane. The support assembly may comprise a movement actuator configured to move at least one of the positioning elements independently of other positioning elements in the array. The plurality of positioning elements may include active positioning elements and passive positioning elements, with the active positioning elements being associated with a movement actuator and the passive positioning elements not being associated with a movement actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2018
    Assignee: VG Buyer, LLC
    Inventor: Sean Coffman
  • Patent number: 9957121
    Abstract: Example dock leveler safety systems for vertically storing dock levelers are disclosed herein. An example dock leveler safety system disclosed herein may be used at a dock platform in a pit having a pit floor, where the pit floor is at a lower elevation than the dock platform and the dock platform and the pit floor define the pit. The dock leveler safety system comprises a deck to pivot relative to the dock platform between an upright position and a lowered position such that the deck extends farther over the pit floor when the deck is in the lowered position than when the deck is in the stored upright position. A sensor monitors a sensed region within the pit when the deck is in the upright position and the sensor provides a reaction signal in response to a body being detected within the sensed region. The deck enters a state of restricted movement in response to the reaction signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: RITE-HITE HOLDING CORPORATION
    Inventors: Matthew Sveum, Timothy Muhl
  • Patent number: 9943454
    Abstract: A wheelchair lift arrangement configured to be installed in a preexisting structure includes a lift base assembly including a lift base plate and two supports attached to the lift base plate; and at least one installation bracket connected to each of the supports, respectively. Each installation bracket includes a horizontal portion and a vertical portion. The horizontal portion and the vertical portion of each installation bracket are each configured to connect the respective installation bracket and the lift base assembly to the preexisting structure at a separate location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: Ricon Corp.
    Inventors: Stanton D. Saucier, Dante V. DeLeo
  • Patent number: 9878652
    Abstract: A cargo bed tailgate may include an extension configurable between a plurality of positions to enable oversized cargo to be securely carried on a cargo bed as well accommodate a deployable set of loading ramps which are storable within the tailgate and deployable to attach to the cargo bed extension after the cargo bed extension is moved and locked for the loading and unloading of a payload into or out of the cargo bed of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2018
    Inventor: Steve DeSimone
  • Patent number: 9809987
    Abstract: A seating system according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, a riser including a tiltable deck. Another seating system according to the present disclosure includes, among other things, a drive system for moving a riser. The drive system includes a sprocket configured to engage a belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: ROGERS ATHLETIC COMPANY, INC.
    Inventors: Joshua William Koch, Brian Staten, Todd Alan Swarts, Timothy John Hockemeyer
  • Patent number: 9790038
    Abstract: Bumpers for use at loading docks include a housing defining a lip-engaging surface to engage a lip of a deck when the lip is in a retracted position, and a RIG-engaging surface positioned adjacent the lip-engaging surface. The RIG-engaging surface is movable relative to the lip-engaging surface. The RIG-engaging surface is to move relative to the lip-engaging surface when a RIG of a vehicle imparts a force to the RIG-engaging surface when the vehicle is at a loading dock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignee: RITE-HITE HOLDING CORPORATION
    Inventors: John A. Kish, Joseph Manone
  • Patent number: 9765536
    Abstract: A load carrying platform shuttle (10) has a static frame (12) and a movable carriage (14). The frame is securable to a mounting location, such as a given working level of a multi-storey building under construction, and the carriage is arranged to telescope into the static frame between an extended position outboard of the mounting location and a retracted position inboard of the mounting location. The movable carriage can move between the extended position and the retracted position while carrying a load. The shuttle includes a motor (76) and gear assembly (72, 74, 78) for driving the movement of the carriage between the extended position and the retracted position while carrying the load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2017
    Assignee: Gumboots Nominees Pty Limited
    Inventor: Allan Sydney McKeon
  • Patent number: 9751640
    Abstract: A stopping system for a cab of boarding bridges for accessing aircraft and ships, which boarding bridge comprise a round structure (1) to which the cab (2) is attached with rotational capabilities, having stopping means made up of a cab rotation blocking mechanism, formed by a linearly movable lance (12), and of a coupling part (11) for said lance, that is integral to and rotates with the cab (2). The movement of the lance is controlled by a sensor that detects the operations of the cab drive mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Assignee: THYSSENKRUPP AIRPORT SYSTEMS, S.A.
    Inventors: Manuel Hernandez Espina, Julian Fernandez Diaz, Antonio Vazquez Hernandez, Antonio Murias Bermejo