Who Steerably Controls Steerable Wheel Patents (Class 180/19.2)
  • Patent number: 11918537
    Abstract: A method for controlling a robotic walking assistant that includes a wheeled base having one or more wheels, two handles and a foldable seat that are coupled to the wheeled base, includes: detecting whether two hands of a user have held the two handles of the robotic walking assistant; receiving a command from the user to select an operation mode in response to detection of the two hands holding the two handles; controlling the wheeled base to move in response to a walking assistive mode being selected; providing resistance to at least one of the one or more wheels according to selection of the user, in response to a walking training mode being selected; and locking the one or more wheels in response to a static training mode being selected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2024
    Assignee: UBKANG (QINGDAO) TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yang Shen, Armen Gardabad Ohanian, Zhen Xiu, Muhammed Rasid Pac, Chengkun Zhang, Huan Tan
  • Patent number: 11806303
    Abstract: A robotic walking assistant includes a wheeled base having a base and one or more position adjustable wheels connected to the base, a body disposed in a vertical direction, positioned on the wheeled base and having a handle, and a control system that receives command instructions. Each of the one or more wheels is slidable with respect to the base between a retracted position and an extended position in a direction that is substantially parallel to a surface where the wheeled base moves. In response to the command instructions, the control system moves the one or more wheels between the retracted positions and the extended positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2023
    Assignees: UBTECH NORTH AMERICA RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER CORP, UBTECH ROBOTICS CORP LTD
    Inventors: ChengKun Zhang, Luis Alfredo Mateos Guzman, Houzhu Ding, Zhen Xiu, Huan Tan
  • Patent number: 11787458
    Abstract: A handcart may include a frame; a drive wheel rotatably supported by the frame about a rotation axis extending in a right-left direction; a prime mover configured to rotate the drive wheel; a bracket pivotably supported by the frame about a pivot axis extending in an up-down direction; and a non-drive wheel supported by the bracket about a rotation axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the up-down direction. The non-drive wheel may include a first non-drive wheel and a second non-drive wheel, and the first non-drive wheel and the second non-drive wheel may be configured to be rotatable independent of each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2023
    Assignee: MAKITA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Susumu Kato, Tomonobu Nashimoto, Shin Noji, Kohei Oishi, Yasuo Ifuku
  • Patent number: 11708252
    Abstract: Systems and methods for towing, hitching, and connecting devices are described. An autonomous guided vehicle includes an automated hitch capable of connecting to a variety of types of containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2023
    Assignee: United States Postal Service
    Inventors: Edward F. Houston, Leung Man Shiu, Michael Joseph Goldberg, Mark David Bittenbender, William Patrick McConnell
  • Patent number: 11628102
    Abstract: A patient support apparatus that is adaptable to multiple modes of transport includes a variable length base and a drive system that includes two independently drivable wheels that are responsive to inputs from a user to steer the patient support apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2023
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert M. Zerhusen, Archana Vaidyanathan
  • Patent number: 11535315
    Abstract: A trailer stand positionable by a shunt truck is disclosed. The trailer stand includes a leg assembly having a front pair of legs and a back pair of legs, the front pair of legs connected by a front cross support and the back pair of legs connected by a back cross support, a wheel assembly having a wheel assembly frame that has a first end and a second end, the first end connected to the back pair of legs, the second end retaining an axle, the axle rotatably retaining at least two wheels, a stepped assembly having a front end, a back end, a top, and a bottom, the front end connected to the front cross support, the back end connected to the back cross support, the top of the stepped assembly providing a plurality of landing areas for an end of the semi-trailer, and a lifting frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2022
    Assignee: IDEAL WAREHOUSE INNOVATIONS INC.
    Inventor: Joseph J. Di Biase
  • Patent number: 11389348
    Abstract: Systems for facilitating movement of a patient transport apparatus are provided and include user input control device that includes a mode switch selectable between a longitudinal transport mode and a multidirectional mode and a driving assist device actuatable between at least one engaged state and a non-engaged state. The mode switch generates signals based on the selected mode and the driving assist device generates engaged or non-engaged signals which are received by a controller. The controller is configured to generate an output signal sent to a lift actuator, swivel actuator, and/or a powered drive system to assist a user in propelling the apparatus in a desired manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2022
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: Kevin M. Patmore, Krishna Sandeep Bhimavarapu, Jeffrey S. Dunfee, II, Fanqi Meng, Christopher J. Hopper, Thomas Alan Puvogel, Gregory S. Taylor, Ryan Ross
  • Patent number: 11312201
    Abstract: Disclosed is a mobile robot including: at least three wheels; a sensing unit configured to measure a weight of the mobile robot applied to each of the three wheels; a support member connected to at least one of the at least three wheels; a length adjustment member connected to the support member so as to adjust a length of the support member; and a processor control the length adjustment member for effectively controlling a center of mass of a mobile robot. In addition, disclosed are a method implemented by the mobile robot to control a center of mass of the mobile robot, and a non-transitory computer readable storage medium in which a computer program for implementing the method for controlling the center of mass of the mobile robot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2022
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Sanghak Lee, Nakyeong Kim, Sungmin Moon, Jeongkyo Seo
  • Patent number: 11167967
    Abstract: A traction control system for a pallet truck includes a traction motor, an operator controlled input device configured to selectively accelerate the pallet truck in both a forward direction of vehicle travel and a reverse direction of vehicle travel, and an operator controlled actuation device configured to place the pallet truck in an auxiliary mode of operation. A vehicle controller may monitor a speed of the pallet truck and, in response to receiving an actuation signal, command the traction motor to maintain the speed of the pallet truck at an intermediate rate of travel without actuation of the operator controlled input device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2021
    Assignee: HYSTER-YALE GROUP, INC.
    Inventor: Matthew K. Hoffman
  • Patent number: 11142442
    Abstract: A system and method for monitoring the dynamic load moment and stabilization of a lifting vehicle is provided. The system is adapted for monitoring the stability of the vehicle on a real-time basis, and displaying the real-time dynamic load moment of the vehicle/cargo combination on a continuous scale on a user interface. The system may also include an object detection device oriented for determining the presence or absence of a floor surface within a specified distance from the vehicle in order to detect drop-offs in the floor surface surrounding the vehicle and alert the operator of same. A method for calibrating the system is also provided. The calibration method can include a series of lift and acceleration steps for collecting static and dynamic data in order to determine one or more coefficients associated with the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2021
    Assignee: ARROW ACQUISITION, LLC
    Inventors: Ross T. Gault, Terrence S. Melvin
  • Patent number: 10988163
    Abstract: A power-assisted steering mechanism of an electric pallet truck includes an operating mechanism, a power assistor assembly, a driving mechanism and a mounting bracket. A handle and a handle seat of the operating mechanism are connected. The power assistor assembly includes a power assist mechanism and a controller. The power assist mechanism is electrically connected to the controller. An input shaft at an upper end of the power assist mechanism is drivably connected to a lower end of the handle seat. The mounting bracket includes a mounting plate and a mounting seat. An outer casing of the power assist mechanism is fixedly connected to the mounting plate. The driving mechanism includes a drive connecting shaft, a reduction gearbox, a driving wheel and a driving motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2021
    Assignee: HANGCHA GROUP CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Zongping Jiang, Minglong Cai, Hao Kuang, Pengfei Pan
  • Patent number: 10974592
    Abstract: A child vehicle includes a power mechanism having a motor, at least one wheel selectively operatively coupled to the motor, and a propulsion switch coupled to the power mechanism and having a first position and a second position. The first position is from a user-initiated force. The propulsion switch automatically moves to the second position upon disengagement of the force. In the first position, the child vehicle is in the first operational mode and the wheel is being driven by the motor. In the second position, the child vehicle is in the second operational mode and the wheel is allowed to rotate substantially free from drag or resistance due to the motor. A method is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Assignee: Huffy Corporation
    Inventor: Donald K. Jessie, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10894321
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus, including an apparatus that includes a motorized base configured to move the apparatus; an upper portion coupled to the motorized base; one or more load-sensing devices located between the motorized base and the upper portion, the one or more load-sensing devices being configured to (i) detect forces between the upper portion and the motorized base, and (ii) provide force information based on the detected forces between different portions of the upper portion and the motorized base; and one or more processors performs operations of: obtaining the force information provided by the one or more load-sensing devices; determining a difference between the forces indicated by the force information from the one or more load-sensing devices; determining, based the difference in the forces, a movement to be performed by the apparatus; and providing control information to cause the motorized base to perform the determined movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2021
    Assignee: X Development LLC
    Inventors: Vincent Yves Michel Nabat, Philip Mullins, Justine Rembisz
  • Patent number: 10858027
    Abstract: In a method of operating a payload-carrying vehicle having a system configured to provide torque to ground contacting elements, the method includes, repeatedly measuring a force applied by a user to the vehicle; determining a direction and a magnitude of the measured force; determining a respective amount of torque to apply to each of the ground contacting elements as a function of the determined direction and magnitude; and providing the respective determined amount of torque to each of the ground contacting elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2020
    Assignee: Segway Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Casey, Kimberley A. St. Louis, Nicholas A. DeAngelis, Benjamin C. Minerd, Robert M. Bowman, Jason A. Swift
  • Patent number: 10792994
    Abstract: A casing (43) of an in-wheel motor drive device (10) includes a tubular body first casing (43g) disposed on one side in an axial (O) direction and a tubular body second casing (43a) disposed on the other side in the axial direction. Each of the body first casing and the body second casing has an annular abutting surface (43j) so that the annular abutting surfaces of the body first casing and the body second casing abut on each other in the axial direction. A hub carrier (18) has at its tip end a connecting portion (82s) for rotatable connection to a vehicle body-side member (81). The connecting portion is disposed so as not to overlap the abutting surfaces in the axial direction and so as to overlap the body first casing or the body second casing in the axial direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2020
    Assignee: NTN CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shinya Taikou, Shiro Tamura
  • Patent number: 10729066
    Abstract: A self-propelled machine includes a drive motor, a handle having two grips, an electromechanical converting device, and a speed adjusting element configured to move relative to the handle to adjust a rotational speed of the drive motor and configured to be operated by a user when the user holds one of the two grips with a single hand. The speed adjusting element is disposed between the two grips. The electromechanical converting device is configured to convert a positional change of the speed adjusting element into an electrical signal for adjusting the rotational speed of the drive motor. The speed adjusting element is movable between a first position and a second position. The rotational speed of the drive motor when the speed adjusting element is in the first position is greater than the rotational speed of the drive motor when the speed adjusting element is in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2020
    Assignee: Nanjing Chevron Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yu Yan, Toshinari Yamaoka, Fangjie Nie, Haishen Xu, Yangzi Liu
  • Patent number: 10675965
    Abstract: The speed reduction unit (31) of the in-wheel motor driving device (10) includes an input shaft (32), an output shaft (41) coupled to a wheel hub (12) and extending in parallel with the input shaft, one or more intermediate shafts (35, 38) extending in parallel with the input shaft and output shaft, an input gear (33) coupled to the input shaft, an output gear (40) coupled to the output shaft, and a plurality of intermediate gears (34, 36, 37, 39) coupled to the intermediate shaft. The input gear, intermediate gears, and output gear are engaged with one another to form a driving force transmission path connecting the input gear to the output gear through the intermediate gears. At least one intermediate gear (37) of the intermediate gears has a diameter greater than the diameter of the output gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2020
    Assignee: NTN CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shiro Tamura, Shinya Taikou
  • Patent number: 10556785
    Abstract: A system for controlling an industrial truck with a drive portion including a traction drive portion, a steering portion, and a load portion, comprises a portable transmitting unit configured to be positioned away from the industrial truck. The system further comprises at least three transmitting and receiving units positioned in a predetermined spatial arrangement with respect to one another on the drive portion. An evaluation unit is provided that is configured to determine a position of the portable transmitting and receiving unit relative to the industrial truck by measuring signal propagation times. The industrial truck further comprises a control unit configured to send a control command for traction drive and/or steering if the relative position of the portable transmitting and receiving unit is located within a predetermined spatial region relative to the industrial truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2020
    Assignee: Jungheinrich Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Oliver Göpner, Michael Schüler
  • Patent number: 10518622
    Abstract: An integrated power module of an electric scooter includes a motor unit and a transmission unit. The motor unit includes a motor case, in which a stator, a rotor and a shaft are provided. A board is fixed to an end of the motor case, and a holder is fixed to the board. The transmission unit has a lid connected to the board to form a lubricant chamber. The motor shaft passes through the holder to the lubricant chamber. The transmission unit further includes a transmission shaft, which is connected to the motor shaft through a pair of meshed gears. The motor shaft is provided with a spiral slot to force lubricant in the holder flowing to the lubricant room instead of flowing to the motor unit when the motor shaft is rotating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: Fukuta Electric & Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chin Feng Chang, Li Hsuan Huang, Hung Chun Ke
  • Patent number: 10493624
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus, including an apparatus that includes a motorized base configured to move the apparatus; an upper portion coupled to the motorized base; one or more load-sensing devices located between the motorized base and the upper portion, the one or more load-sensing devices being configured to (i) detect forces between the upper portion and the motorized base, and (ii) provide force information based on the detected forces between different portions of the upper portion and the motorized base; and one or more processors performs operations of: obtaining the force information provided by the one or more load-sensing devices; determining a difference between the forces indicated by the force information from the one or more load-sensing devices; determining, based the difference in the forces, a movement to be performed by the apparatus; and providing control information to cause the motorized base to perform the determined movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2019
    Assignee: X Development LLC
    Inventors: Vincent Yves Michel Nabat, Philip Mullins, Justine Rembisz
  • Patent number: 10317157
    Abstract: Provided is a crossbow safety system comprising a crossbow, a pressure sensor, and an interlock. The crossbow has a bowstring operable between a cocked and an uncocked position, a foregrip adapted for being grasped by an associated hand of an associated user, and a trigger assembly adapted to selectably retain the bowstring in the cocked position. The pressure sensor is on or in the foregrip, and is adapted to detect a pressure signature from the foregrip being grasped by an associated hand of an associated user, the associated hand having fingers. The interlock is operationally engaged with the pressure sensor and the trigger assembly, and is adapted to lock the trigger assembly from releasing the bowstring if the pressure sensor does not detect a first pressure signature sufficiently similar to a predetermined pressure signature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2019
    Assignee: Hunter's Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Drew Bowers, Cassondra Faiella, Michael J. Shaffer, Richard L. Bednar
  • Patent number: 10266223
    Abstract: An electric-powered vehicle includes a drive wheel and a coasting wheel. The drive wheel and the coasting wheel are spaced apart from each other in a vehicle traveling direction. A frame is arranged between the drive wheel and the coasting wheel and rotationally supports the drive wheel and the coasting wheel. The frame has an object mounting portion. A stay is coupled to the frame and extends upward from the frame. A seat and a handlebar are supported by the stay. The vehicle has a plurality of modes including a ride mode, in which a user uses the vehicle while being seated on the seat and holding the handlebar, and a cart mode, in which the user uses the vehicle while standing on the ground and holding the handlebar. The vehicle is selectively switched to a shape corresponding to each of the modes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2019
    Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoshihiro Shinde, Yuya Nishi, Peter Marco
  • Patent number: 10252683
    Abstract: A mounting bar assembly mounted to a materials handling vehicle includes a mounting bar extending from a body portion of the materials handling vehicle, a housing mounted to the mounting bar and supporting at least one electronic device, and cabling that extends to the housing through a hollow interior portion defined within the mounting bar. The mounting bar assembly further includes cabling for providing communication between the at least one electronic device and control structure of the vehicle. The housing is mounted to the mounting bar such that the housing can be situated in a plurality of positions along at least a portion of the length of the mounting bar while the cabling is maintained within the hollow interior portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2019
    Assignee: Crown Equipment Corporation
    Inventors: Christian Molnar, Christoph Babel, James V. Kraimer, Michael P. Gallagher, Peter Adelsperger, Marc Voelke, Luying Sun
  • Patent number: 10252794
    Abstract: The invention provides methods and systems for controlling speed of an aircraft during an autonomous pushback manoeuvre, i.e. under the aircraft's own power without a pushback tractor. The method includes applying a torque to at least one landing gear wheel of the aircraft, the torque being in a direction opposite to the backwards rolling direction of rotation of the landing gear wheel. The torque applied does not exceed a limit for ensuring aircraft longitudinal stability. For longitudinal stability the torque applied should not cause the aircraft to risk a tip-over event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2019
    Assignee: AIRBUS OPERATIONS LIMITED
    Inventors: James Morris, Antonio Colosimo
  • Patent number: 10179624
    Abstract: A golf trike that has a slot between two storage compartments between its rear wheels. The slot fits and holds the front tire of a towed golf trike. A bag rack on the front golf trike articulates forward out of the way of the slot on the front trike to allow the front tire of the rear trike to fit into the slot. When the golf trike is not towing another trike the bag rack articulates rearward to hold a golf bag for routine play.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2019
    Inventor: Edward O'Donnell
  • Patent number: 10155149
    Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle having a deck, a plurality of wheels mounted to the deck, a drive system mounted underneath the deck, an energy storage system that provides power to the drive system, and a frame configured to secure a load mounted to the deck. Particularly, the vehicle is an electric vehicle in the form of an electric skateboard for us in golf environments. The frame of the vehicle is adapted to secure and carry a golf bag, as well as various accessories, and enables an operator to traverse a golf course together with their golfing equipment on the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2018
    Assignee: Fuel Limited
    Inventors: Mathew Quinn, Daniel Quinn
  • Patent number: 10093336
    Abstract: The present invention provides an electric pullet truck in the technical field of land transportation equipment. The electric pullet truck comprises a frame including two forks; a steering drive assembly including i) a drive wheel component disposed behind the frame; ii) an oil cylinder component to drive the forks up, which includes a cylinder body and a plunger which could telescopically move within the cylinder body, wherein the cylinder body is fixedly connected with the drive wheel component; iii) a supporting seat component including an annular sleeve and two support arms extending from both sides of the annular sleeve, wherein the annular sleeve is covered outside of a lower portion of the oil cylinder body; and iv) a handle seat component fixedly connected with an upper portion of the cylinder body. The electric pullet truck of the invention has advantages like a high degree of integration and smooth steering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Assignee: Ningbo Ruyi Joint Stock Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Zhenyu Pan, Zhenli Feng, Ji Chen, Feng Tian
  • Patent number: 10086929
    Abstract: The invention provides methods and systems for controlling speed of an aircraft during an autonomous pushback maneuver, i.e. under the aircraft's own power without a pushback tractor. The method includes applying a torque to at least one landing gear wheel of the aircraft, the torque being in a direction opposite to the backwards rolling direction of rotation of the landing gear wheel. The torque applied does not exceed a limit for ensuring aircraft longitudinal stability. For longitudinal stability the torque applied should not cause the aircraft to risk a tip-over event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: AIRBUS OPERATIONS LIMITED
    Inventors: James Morris, Antonio Colosimo
  • Patent number: 10014141
    Abstract: The disclosure provides a non-contact switch device for use on material handling equipment, including a reed switch and a magnet, wherein the non-contact switch device has on and off positions achieved by the presence or absence of magnetic induction between the magnet and the reed switch. The non-contact switch devices are disclosed in the form of a main power switch, an interlock switch, a limit switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2018
    Assignee: BIG LIFT, LLC
    Inventors: Wang Zheng, Yang Yanfeng, Qi Xiaobin
  • Patent number: 9963330
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a truck, comprising a frame, forklifts connected with the frame, driven wheels mounted on the forklifts, a battery unit, an operating handle, a hydraulic pump station system and a top cover permanently connected with the frame; a driving wheel unit intended for driving the truck, wherein the hydraulic pump station system comprises a driving mechanism and a pump body with a case, the top of the pump body is permanently connected with the top cover and the bottom is connected with the driving wheel unit, a handle mounting portion is provided on the pump case and connected with the operating handle, the driving mechanism is located on the side of the handle mounting portion opposite to the pump body and away from the forklifts. The present invention has the advantages of low cost, simple and compact structure and steady operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignee: NOBLELIFT INTELLIGENT EQUIPMENT CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Sebastian Alexander Huether, Haihong Tang
  • Patent number: 9849972
    Abstract: The invention provides methods and systems for controlling speed of an aircraft during an autonomous pushback maneuver, i.e. under the aircraft's own power without a pushback tractor. The method includes applying a torque to at least one landing gear wheel of the aircraft, the torque being in a direction opposite to the backwards rolling direction of rotation of the landing gear wheel. The torque applied does not exceed a limit for ensuring aircraft longitudinal stability. For longitudinal stability the torque applied should not cause the aircraft to risk a tip-over event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Assignee: AIRBUS OPERATIONS LIMITED
    Inventors: James Morris, Antonio Colosimo
  • Patent number: 9834242
    Abstract: A smart dolly includes a running mechanism and a body, the running mechanism comprises an equipment box and a rear axle housing, the equipment box is disposed on the rear axle housing, a battery, electric motor and control computer are provided in the equipment box, the battery and the electric motor are both electrically connected to the control computer, the equipment box has a charging plug thereon, the charging plug is electrically connected to the battery, the rear axle housing is provided with a differential clutch and an axle therein, the differential clutch and the axle form a transmission, the differential clutch is driven by the electric motor, the electric motor is provided with an electromagnetic braking device and a heat dissipation fan, and the external ends of the axle are connected to wheels; the body comprises an upper, middle and lower support rods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Inventors: Guangwei Wang, Zhoumin Ni
  • Patent number: 9738501
    Abstract: Industrial truck with a drive part and a load part with two wheel arms that is height-adjustable relative to the drive part, wherein each of the wheel arms has a wheel arm lever, which has at least one load roller and is pivotably articulated on the wheel arm, and a rod, via which a height adjusting movement of the load part is coupled with a pivoting movement of the wheel arm lever, wherein the rod has a hydraulic cylinder, with which a length of the rod is adjustable and which has an operating volume, characterized in that the two rods are push rods, and the industrial truck has a pressure accumulator, which is connectable with the operating volumes of the two hydraulic cylinders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: Jungheinrich Aktiengesellschadt
    Inventors: Dirk Wendt, Klaus-Peter Badura
  • Patent number: 9656671
    Abstract: An example method of controlling an electrified vehicle includes activating a coast switch to a place an electrified vehicle in a coast mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2017
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Douglas Raymond Martin, Kenneth James Miller, William Perkins, Derek Hartl
  • Patent number: 9611109
    Abstract: A method of leveling a parked freight trailer at a loading dock, the method comprising: (a) positioning a portable stabilizing device at least partially underneath a forward portion of the parked freight trailer; (b) positioning a lift associated with the portable stabilizing device to bear weight of the forward portion of the parked freight trailer; (c) reorienting the parked freight trailer so a floor of the parked freight trailer goes from a substantially non-parallel orientation to an approximately parallel orientation with respect to a floor of the loading dock by repositioning at least one of the jack and a landing gear of the parked freight trailer; and, (e) maintaining the lift in a weight bearing position while goods are at least one of unloaded from or loaded onto the parked freight trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2017
    Assignee: Stabilock, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas Terrance Kimener
  • Patent number: 9458001
    Abstract: A powered pallet truck with a selectable effective reduced turning radius, and an intermediate roller assembly for mounting on the powered pallet truck, are provided. The intermediate roller assembly can include a base, a linear actuator pivotably connected at a base end to the base, a linkage pivotably connected to the base, and at least one roller having an axis pivotably connected to an actuating end of the linear actuator and to the linkage, the at least one roller thus being movable between a retracted and an engagement position. The assembly can be mounted to the underside of a pallet truck fork having a load wheel. A turning radius effectively defined by a drive wheel of the pallet truck and the intermediate roller, or a turning radius effectively defined by the drive wheel and the load wheel, can be selected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Assignee: RYDER MATERIAL HANDLING LLC
    Inventors: Mark Keen, Michael Novak, Thomas Ryder
  • Patent number: 9376154
    Abstract: A vehicle capable of preventing the vehicle from making any movement that is not intended by a rider without performing any complicated control is provided. A vehicle includes a step plate on which a rider puts his/her feet to get on the vehicle, and a handle that extends upward from a front of the step plate and is grasped by the rider, the vehicle being configured to move by performing inversion control, in which the vehicle further includes a power-on operation section for instructing the vehicle to at least start the inversion control, the starting operation section being disposed on a surface on the side opposite to a step plate side of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2016
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Makoto Mori
  • Patent number: 9365228
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a coast control system, or dead-man brake inhibitor, is associated with a tiller arm that is used for steering a vehicle. A spring acts upon the tiller arm when an operator releases a control handle attached to the tiller arm to move the tiller arm to a braking position which causes an electronically or mechanically actuated brake to be applied. Before releasing the control handle, the operator may actuate the coast control system to inhibit movement of the tiller arm towards the braking position when the control handle is released. The operator may vertically reposition the tiller arm while the coast control system remains actuated by overcoming the inhibiting force applied by the coast control system when the tiller arm is moved toward the braking position and by overcoming the spring acting on the tiller arm when the tiller arm is moved away from the braking position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: Hyster - Yale Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Clay Dunigan, Jeff Monico, Alex Evans, Allen Brock, Lisa French
  • Patent number: 9248063
    Abstract: A device for turning over and transferring the patient comprises a base, a lifting mechanism, an extension arm, a cantilever beam, and a turn driving device. The lifting mechanism comprises a lifting post and a lift driving device. The lifting post is fixed to the base; the lift driving device is fixed to the lifting post. The extension arm has a first end and a second end. The lift driving device is operatively connected to the first end for driving the extension arm to move up and down along the lifting post. The cantilever beam is connected to the second end and extending away from the lifting post. The turn driving device comprises a motor reducer, a revolutionary shaft, and two turning shafts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2016
    Inventor: Yi-Long Wang
  • Patent number: 9205882
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a handle is attached to a vehicle tiller arm. The handle includes a first pair of gripping portions and a second pair of gripping portions. A first throttle actuator is configured and located such that it is operable by either hand of an operator while the operator grasps each of the first pair of gripping portions while the tiller arm is substantially vertical. A second throttle actuator is configured and located such that it is operable by either hand of an operator while the operator grasps each of the second pair of gripping portions and the tiller arm is not substantially vertical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2015
    Assignee: NACCO Materials Handling Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew K. Hoffman
  • Patent number: 8991529
    Abstract: One variation may include a module including a body and a control arm; the control arm being constructed and arranged to allow a user to direct, steer, or move the module in a plurality of modes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Wade W. Bryant, Gael Buzyn
  • Publication number: 20150075880
    Abstract: An electric cart for facilitating the harvesting of berries and other crops comprising a steering side wheel assembly with a front steering wheel and a rear drive wheel connected by a first connecting member and a caster side wheel assembly comprising a front caster wheel and a rear drive wheel connected by a second connecting member. Both drive wheels are connected to battery-powered motors. A main cross-bar connects the castor side wheel assembly to the steering side wheel assembly and maintains an adjustable distance between the first and second connecting members. The invention preferably includes a plurality of solar panels that charge the batteries that supply power to the first and second battery-powered motors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2013
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Applicant: GK Machine, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary Grossen, Scott Grossen, Nathan Keeley
  • Patent number: 8915318
    Abstract: A shifting machine structure contains a base unit, a seat unit, a hydraulic unit, a cushion support unit, a rod unit, and a control handle unit. Thereby, a pressing pedal and a releasing pedal of the hydraulic unit are pedaled to move the elderly or patients toward a desired position by using the base unit, the seat unit, the hydraulic unit, the cushion support unit, the rod unit, and the control handle unit, thus obtaining delivery safety and convenience. In addition, a copper sleeve and a copper piece of each of plural shafts of the seat unit rub with each other to enhance rigidity and durability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Inventor: Jin-Liang Lin
  • Patent number: 8783403
    Abstract: An electrically powered self propelled transfer accessible vehicle having a chair which can be vertically positioned by a lifting frame on the vehicle controlled by an operator of the vehicle to permit a disabled person to move from a wheelchair onto the vehicle chair and then repositioned for the disabled person to enter a ride or attraction at an amusement park or to receive physical therapy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Inventor: Llyod L. Robbins
  • Patent number: 8752657
    Abstract: A pallet jack power assembly upgrades a manually powered pallet jack to provide a motor-driven drive wheel. In one example, the manually powered pallet jack includes left and right steering wheels separated by a narrow distance. A frame of the pallet jack power assembly may be adapted for attachment to the pallet jack. The frame supports a drive axle, which in turn supports a drive wheel. Attachment of the frame of the pallet jack power assembly locates the drive wheel between the left and right steering wheels. The drive axle and a steering axle, supporting the left and right steering wheels of the pallet jack, may be located in a same vertical plane. A biasing device, such as a spring, may be used to provide a downward force on the drive wheel, thereby increasing friction between the drive wheel and the floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Power Handling, Incorporated
    Inventor: Greg Newell
  • Patent number: 8746377
    Abstract: An electric utility cart to assist in transportation and hauling various items is disclosed. The utility cart includes a handle with a throttle to control the speed of the cart during use. A single 360° rotatable front wheel in combination with a pair of wide rear wheels which are joined to a differential allows the cart to turn in tight circles. A directional switch proximate the handle allows the user to drive the cart in either a forward or rearward direction. An auxiliary rack can be mounted on the cart as needed for carrying surf boards or other large items. A hitch rod allows the cart to be suspended and transported by a conventional vehicle such as a car, SUV or pickup truck having a typical tubular hitch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Blue Comet Ventures, LLC
    Inventor: Chris T. Dunbar
  • Patent number: 8701802
    Abstract: A multi-functional transport system is disclosed having a plurality of mobile transport units, which each have a coupling device in a front and a rear region. In this manner the transport units can be coupled to each other and/or to a lead vehicle. In one configuration, the individual transport units equipped with drives follow the lead vehicle defining the path in a directionally stable manner by an independent path control system. The transport units themselves can also be removed or decoupled from the transport system as independent units. At least one handle, in addition to the couplings, can be used by an operator when in the decoupled state, so that the mailings to be transported can remain on the transport unit until delivery without manual transferring or transporting. This manual guiding of the individual transport unit takes place in a virtually force-free manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Foerderung der Angewandten Forschung E.V.
    Inventors: Werner Schonewolf, Matthias Bruning, Eckart Uhlmann
  • Publication number: 20140102814
    Abstract: A tiller guided industrial truck having a steered wheel, a tiller arm, a travel speed controller, an actuating unit, a hold device, and a high speed travel switch. The tiller arm is pretensioned toward a vertical or near vertical position. The hold device limits a maximum travel speed to a walk along speed when activated and provides a snap-in position for the tiller arm in which the tiller arm is held. Further, the industrial truck has a circuit that initializes a breaking process when the travel speed controller is not actuated while the high speed travel switch is activated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: Jungheinrich Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Monte Grison, Scott Tosten, Carsten Harnisch
  • Publication number: 20140076644
    Abstract: Powered patient support apparatuses—such as beds, cots, stretchers, or the like—include a plurality of user controls that allow a caregiver to control the steering and/or driving of one or more powered wheels from multiple different locations around the patient support apparatus (e.g. head end, foot end, and/or the sides). The control is carried out by force sensors that detect both an orientation of the applied forces and a magnitude of the applied forces. Translational and/or rotational movement is effectuated, depending upon the magnitude and direction of the forces, as well as the physical location of the applied force relative to a reference point on the support apparatus, such as the center. One or more object sensors may also be included in the support apparatus to assist in steering and/or navigating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: STRYKER CORPORATION
    Inventors: Richard A. Derenne, Richard Thomas DeLuca, Thomas Joseph Newport, II, Kevin Mark Patmore
  • Patent number: 8668053
    Abstract: Ground conveyor with a drive part with a frame, a load part, which is attached to the frame of the drive part and the height of which is operated on the, if applicable, one load pickup means that can be actuated by a lifting device, furthermore with parallelly distanced wheel arms, which are attached with their rear ends on the frame or the load part and each support a load-bearing wheel with means for changing the distance of the wheel arms (wheel-arm width), wherein a bearing arm is fastened on the rear end of the wheel arms, which extends almost perpendicular to the wheel arm and is received fittingly and moveably in at least one bearing opening of the frame or the load part and fixing means are provided on the frame or load part, with which the axial and pivot position of the bearing arms can be releasably retained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Jungheinrich Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Olaf Rath