Holding Means Patents (Class 182/15)
  • Patent number: 11737575
    Abstract: A collapsible folding box spring assembly comprising a first subassembly that includes top and bottom frame portions; a second subassembly that includes a top and bottom frame portions; first and second T-brackets positioned between the first and second subassemblies in a hinged configuration, wherein the top frame portion of the first subassembly and the top frame portion of the second subassembly are both attached to the T-brackets at a first axis, wherein the bottom frame portion of the subassembly is attached to the T-brackets at a second axis; and wherein the bottom frame portion of the second subassembly is attached to the T-brackets at a third axis; and a plurality of rotating Z-links located between the top and bottom frame portions of the first and second subassemblies for expanding the frame portions when in an open configuration, and collapsing the frame portions when in a closed configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2023
    Inventors: Bretton D. Cranney, Xie Zhiyong
  • Patent number: 10952537
    Abstract: The present technology generally relates to a step stool having anti-microbial protection. In particular, the present technology relates to a step stool having an anti-microbial coating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2021
    Assignee: THE GOLD KIDS TRUST
    Inventor: Mitchell K. Goldberg
  • Patent number: 10682275
    Abstract: A personal mobility device comprising a base plate having a top surface, a rotating platform having a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein a plurality of rollers are coupled to the bottom surface of the rotating platform and configured to support the rotating platform upon the top surface of the base plate, a motor coupled to the base plate and the rotating platform and configured to rotate the rotating platform with respect to the base plate, and a support structure coupled to the rotating platform and extending upward from the top surface of the rotating platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Inventor: Troy Richard
  • Patent number: 10358330
    Abstract: The invention relates to a scissor arm assembly for a scissor lift, comprising two scissor arms (124, 125) pivotally mounted about a shaft (70). Each arm is made of a tubular beam having a local reinforcement plate (80, 81, 82) welded on either side. Each arm (124, 125) has two through-holes (101, 102; 103, 104) for the shaft (70), each of which is made in a respective side of the beam and the corresponding reinforcement plate. The shaft (70) is circumferentially supported in each hole by both the wall of the beam and the corresponding reinforcement plate (80, 81, 82). The shaft is free of support inside the beam between the two through-holes (101, 102; 103, 104). This avoids having to weld, on either side of the scissor beam, a part inserted therein to house the shaft (70).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2019
    Assignee: HAULOTTE GROUP
    Inventor: Pierre Anglade
  • Patent number: 10322920
    Abstract: A scissor boom system including a scissor boom assembly having a telescopic boom section including a base-boom, a middle-boom, and a top-boom, a scissor links assembly, a chassis, and a power hoist. The chassis supports the power hoist, the power moves the telescopic boom section and the scissor links assembly between raised and lowered conditions when manipulated. The scissor boom assembly provides a stable work platform for workers. The telescopic boom section provides for horizontal-movement of a work platform, and the scissor links assembly is thus able to provide vertical-movement of the work platform, as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2019
    Inventor: DongFeng Shi
  • Patent number: 10184293
    Abstract: A ladder unit is slidably joined to an edge of or beneath a working surface by a mounting frame having a roller assembly or other slidable means. The ladder unit includes a stair assembly that is rotatably mounted to the mounting frame by a hinge, and configured to rotate between an open position, in which a support provided on the stair assembly does not contact the working surface, and a closed position, in which the support contacts the working surface. In this regard, the ladder unit may be slidably moved from location to location along the working surface when the stair assembly is in the open position with substantially low friction, and may be stabilized in a location for use when the stair assembly is in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2019
    Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: David Bruce McCalib, Jr., Jeffrey L. Weeks, Aimee Constantine
  • Patent number: 9381795
    Abstract: A surveillance module may be deployed from a vehicle. The vehicle to deploy the surveillance module includes a first portion configured to accommodate a user to operate the vehicle. A second portion includes a module configured to accommodate the user and comprising a roof and an entrance accessible through an interior of the vehicle from the first portion. The second portion also includes a lifting mechanism coupled to the module and operable to move the module vertically from a retracted position to an extended position. A third portion defines an opening to accommodate the module, wherein the roof of the module couples to a periphery of the opening in the retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Assignee: TerraHawk, LLC
    Inventors: Tom R. James, John R. Spence
  • Patent number: 9222306
    Abstract: An access system for facilitating access to an elevated deck of a mobile crane includes a staircase having a support post defining an axis of inclination. A plurality of ascending steps is connected to the at least one support post, and a mounting bracket is pivotally coupled to an upper end of the at least one support post. The staircase is pivotable about a longitudinal axis such that a lower end of the at least one support post is induced to move in a lateral direction in response to pivotal motion of the at least one support post. A caster is coupled to the lower end of the support post for supporting the staircase on a ground surface. The caster supports the staircase on the ground surface throughout longitudinal movements of the staircase and lateral movements of the staircase induced by vertical movements of the mobile crane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2015
    Assignee: TNT CRANE & RIGGING, INC.
    Inventors: Mike Appling, Randy Dobbs
  • Publication number: 20130327591
    Abstract: A fall arrest anchor trolley for arresting the fall of a user. In one embodiment, the invention can be a fall arrest trolley comprising: a body a brake sub-system, and a plurality of wheels rotatably coupled to the body, wherein bottoms of the plurality of wheels collectively define a rolling plane; the brake sub-system comprising a brake rod, a brake pad connected to the brake rod, a lanyard connector connected to the brake rod, and a resilient element; the brake rod slidably coupled to the body so that the brake sub-system is alterable between: (1) a free state in which the brake pad is spaced a distance above the rolling plane; and (2) an arrest state in which at least a portion of the brake pad is located within the rolling plane; the resilient element biasing the brake sub-system into the free state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2012
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: Transol Corporation
    Inventors: Arnold T. Galpin, David A. Pistti
  • Publication number: 20120298446
    Abstract: A retractable horizontal lifeline assembly includes a lifeline windable about and paid out from a rotatable drum and a housing. The housing includes a first connector and is configured and arranged to house the drum and the lifeline wound about a base of the drum. The first connector is operatively connected to a first anchorage structure, the lifeline is pulled outward from proximate the housing thereby paying out at least a portion of the lifeline from the drum, a second connector operatively connected to the lifeline is operatively connected to a second anchorage structure, and the lifeline is tensioned using a crank that rotates the drum to increase the tension in the lifeline and provides indication when the tension in the lifeline reaches a predetermined level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2012
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Inventors: Vincent G. Meillet, J. Thomas Wolner, Scott C. Casebolt, Damien de Lapeyriere, Charles C. Bryant
  • Publication number: 20120298445
    Abstract: A retractable horizontal lifeline assembly includes a lifeline, a drum, and a crank. The lifeline has an intermediate portion interconnecting a first end and a second end. The drum has a base and is rotatable. The first end of the lifeline is operatively connected to the drum and the intermediate portion of the lifeline is windable about and paid out from the base. The drum is operatively connected to a first anchorage structure. The second end is operatively connected to a second anchorage structure. The crank is configured and arranged to be releasably connectable to the drum and is rotatable to rotate the drum and tension the lifeline. The crank includes a tension indicator to provide indication when the tension in the lifeline has reached a predetermined level. The crank is capable of tensioning the lifeline to a level greater than the predetermined level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2012
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Inventors: Vincent G. Meillet, J. Thomas Wolner, Scott C. Casebolt, Damien de Lapeyriere, Charles C. Bryant
  • Patent number: 7841447
    Abstract: A modular ladder comprises a base having a back end and a front end. A vertical support is attachable to the back end of the base. The ladder also includes a stair section assembly comprising a plurality of steps. The stair section assembly has a front end and a back end. The front end of the stair section assembly is attachable to the front end of the base. The back end of the stair section assembly is attachable to the vertical support. The stair section assembly comprises a separate top step, whereby the top step is capable of being attached to the stair section and whereby the attachable nature of separate top step facilitates storing the ladder in a compact container which is smaller than the stair section and top step when placed in an assembled condition. A method of storing the ladder in a compact container is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Ballymore Company, Inc.
    Inventor: William F. Frame
  • Patent number: 7828115
    Abstract: A novel lockstep mechanism for a rolling ladder is described. The weight-releasing ladder lockstep allows a ladder to be relocated on wheels but when a person climbs the ladder, the front wheels are automatically retracted and the ladder rests firmly with its front feet on the floor. When in the climbing (stationary) position the front wheels of the lockstep are retracted and the ladder rests on the lockstep's feet. When in the rolling position, the ladder is tilted slightly back on its rear wheels and the wheels of the lockstep are pushed down to allow the ladder to roll. When in the rolling position, the lockstep wheels are held in place via a latch which is isolated from rolling vibrations through pivoting shock links and springs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Ballymore Company, Inc.
    Inventor: John Sayles
  • Publication number: 20100243374
    Abstract: An apparatus for transporting a rider between two points on a cable or rope, having a plurality of supports configured to suspend the cable or rope between two points of unequal elevation and a trolley for transporting the rider supported by a harness on the cable or rope, the trolley having a mounting plate configured with a connection point to receive the rider's harness, a pulley rotatably mounted to the mounting plate to support the plate on the cable or rope, and a friction shoe mounted on the plate forward of the pulley to contact the upper portion of the cable or rope, wherein the connection point is located beneath the cable or rope between the centers of the pulley and the friction shoe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2009
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Applicant: Adventure Holdings LLC
    Inventors: Daniel Blair Boren, Brett J. Epstein, Joel C. Haas, Jason B. Hickman, David J.W. Lovinger, Gary P. Prus, James R. Wilson, JR.
  • Publication number: 20080264722
    Abstract: A stair climbing aid comprises two slide rails, an assist member, a control mechanism and two positioning assemblies. The slide rails and the assist member are assembled to handrails at both sides of the stairs. The control mechanism is disposed on the assist member to be controlled by the user. The positioning assemblies are disposed at both sides of the assist member, each positioning assembly is provided with an engaging portion to be engaged in the respective positioning portions of the slide rail. Thereby, an anti-slide effect is produced, so as to prevent the user from falling down the stairs and to help the user move from step to step safely.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventors: Jiin-Hwa YANG, Hui-Li Weng
  • Publication number: 20080217103
    Abstract: An all directional ladder is provided having a base and a plurality of stair treads supported by and extending upwardly from the base at an angle. The ladder further includes a set of footpads, a retractable first and second set of wheels, and a third set of non-retractable wheels. The first and second set of wheels rotate 360° about a vertical axis to allow the ladder to be moved in any direction. A step lock assembly is positioned proximate the front of the base and a series of linkages are associated with this step lock assembly retracting the first and second set of wheels to change the ladder from a mobile position to a stationary position in which the ladder rests on the set of footpads and the third set of wheels. A kit and a method for retrofitting a ladder with an all directional movement system is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2008
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Applicant: TRI-ARC MANUFACTURING CO.
    Inventor: Eric S. Pucek
  • Patent number: 7044267
    Abstract: A support device for supporting the head and/or portion of the upper body of a seated person in a forward leaning semi-reclining position includes a base to be placed on a generally horizontal surface, with support legs and an upright member, an extension tube adjustably positioned parallel to the upright member, and a head or body support connected to the upper end of the extension tube. In an alternative embodiment a pair of wheels is connected to the base and the legs are adapted to be positioned for supporting a piece of luggage, allowing the device to additionally serve as a luggage cart. In an improvement to a conventional luggage cart, an adjustable head support is added to the frame of the luggage cart so the cart may be used as a support device for a seated person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Inventor: Titus S. Sigler
  • Patent number: 6962233
    Abstract: A safety ladder stand comprising a generally rectangular base having a front and rear and a center beam, a plurality of stair treads extending upward from the front of said base and means for supporting said stair treads secured to said base, front wheels mounted at the front of said base and beneath the top of said stair treads; center wheels mounted on said center beam of said base, and rear wheels mounted at the rear of said base, and a set of feet mounted on the front of said base; wherein said ladder stand has an activated position wherein said front and center wheel sets are in contact with the ground to enable said ladder stand to roll and said rear wheels and front support feet are not in contact with the ground, as well as a deactivated position wherein the front and center wheel sets are not in contact with the ground and said rear wheels and front support feet are in contact with the ground to prevent said ladder stand from being rolled; and means for moving said ladder stand from said deactivated
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Assignee: L&P Property Management Company
    Inventors: Donald G. Gillis, Daniel Johnson
  • Patent number: 6688426
    Abstract: A device for allowing a user to selectively extend and retract wheels at the feet of an A-frame stepladder thereby enabling the user to move the ladder from point “A” to point “B” without physically moving, lifting or dragging the ladder. The apparatus includes a gear assembly at the foot of each ladder siderail having an attached caster-style wheel. Each gear assembly is mechanically associated with a handgrip trigger mechanism located along the ladder siderail in a position convenient for the user to operate with each handgrip trigger mechanism controlling the two gear assemblies on the same side of the stepladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventor: Harry Mikros
  • Publication number: 20030075384
    Abstract: A mechanic support device includes a rigid, parallel pair of base legs having horizontal lower portions and upwardly inclined upper portions, a pair of upper arms telescopically mounted in upper ends of the upper portions of the pair of base legs, a rigid step slidably mounted to, so as to extend between for substantially vertical or inclined sliding over the upper portions of the pair of base legs, and a rigid tray having a resilient pad mounted thereon, the tray slidably mounted on the pair of upper arms. The pair of upper arms includes lower sliding sections in telescopic mounting in the upper ends of the upper portions of the pair of base legs. The pair of upper arms also includes upper cantilevered sections extending cantilevered over, and substantially vertically aligned with, the lower portions of the pair of base legs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventor: William R. Pickering
  • Patent number: 6523640
    Abstract: An undercarriage for a mobile ladder stand or other similar warehouse apparatus includes a pair of retractable wheels located at the rear of the undercarriage frame and a pair of retractable wheels located at the middle of the undercarriage frame. When the wheels are retracted, the structure is supported by a pair of legs and foot pads located at the front of the undercarriage frame and another pair of legs and foot pads located at the rear of the undercarriage frame. When the wheels are extended, the structure is supported on the ground surface for rolling by the middle and rear wheels. The rear wheels are preferably mounted on swivel casters and the diameter of the middle pair of wheels is preferably greater than the diameter of the rear pair of wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: EGA Products, Inc.
    Inventors: David T. Young, Scott E. Kaczor
  • Publication number: 20010047905
    Abstract: A mobile device for releasably and adjustably supporting structures of varying dimensions that are capable of elevating a user above a supporting surface. The mobile device includes a plurality of wheels releasably and adjustably attached to the mobile device. The wheels include at least one driven wheel. The mobile device includes a driver for driving the at least one driven wheel. The driver is controllable by the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Publication date: December 6, 2001
    Inventor: Sean Boyer
  • Publication number: 20010040069
    Abstract: An equipment support leg providing a multiplicity of functions. Static applications are addressed through a threaded shaft and foot. The improved foot is bolted into support legs in such a way as to allow swiveling desirable for conforming to grounds. Mobile applications are addressed through a modified castor. The castor may be lowered to the ground or retracted into a safe position by use of a handle attached to a bearing. Jacking or leveling needs are met by use of the leveler handle which is attached to a bearing, located near the top of threaded shaft. Therefore, one support leg converts from stationary capabilities to mobile capacities, and converts back again into the original stationary position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: James T. Trovato, James G. Novotny
  • Patent number: 6305496
    Abstract: The ladder stand employs a pair of swivable caster wheels at the front and a pair at the rear which are used in cooperation with a pair of closely located non-swivable caster wheels, thereby providing a structure which has three modes of operation, one mode for climbing, a second mode which permits the stand to be pushed in a straight line with wide turns and a third mode of operation which permits the stand to be first pushed laterally and to provide sharp turns. A front wheel support is mounted on the front end and a retractable first pair of swivable caster wheels is mounted on the front support. A rear wheel support is mounted on the rear end, with a retractable second pair of swivable caster wheels mounted on the rear support. A third pair of non-swivable rigid caster wheels are mounted at the rear end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: Material Control, Inc.
    Inventor: Todd Anthony Bieszczad
  • Publication number: 20010013444
    Abstract: A safety ladder stand comprising a generally rectangular base having a front and rear and a center beam, a plurality of stair treads extending upward from the front of said base and means for supporting said stair treads secured to said base, front wheels mounted at the front of said base and beneath the top of said stair treads; center wheels mounted on said center beam of said base, and rear wheels mounted at the rear of said base, and a set of feet mounted on the front of said base; wherein said ladder stand has an activated position wherein said front and center wheel sets are in contact with the ground to enable said ladder stand to roll and said rear wheels and front support feet are not in contact with the ground, as well as a deactivated position wherein the front and center wheel sets are not in contact with the ground and said rear wheels and front support feet are in contact with the ground to prevent said ladder stand from being rolled; and means for moving said ladder stand from said deactivated
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2000
    Publication date: August 16, 2001
    Inventors: Donald G. Gillis, Daniel Johnson
  • Patent number: 6230841
    Abstract: A track ladder that includes a ladder frame, plurality of steps secured to the ladder frame and a carriage assembly secured to the ladder frame. The ladder frame rides on an upper track and a lower track and adapted to move in a horizontal direction and pivot about a vertical axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Assignee: Melfred Inc.
    Inventor: Nicholas J. Valore
  • Patent number: 6179087
    Abstract: A default-immobile ladder (10) includes mobility means (12) displaceable between a ladder immobile position and a ladder mobile position in which the mobility means extends downwardly beyond the foot of the ladder and manually actuable means (32) for displacing the mobility means from the ladder immobile position to the ladder mobile position. When the manually actuable means is released, the mobility means returns to the ladder immobile position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Custom Ladder Company Pty. Ltd.
    Inventor: William Moffat
  • Patent number: 6039147
    Abstract: A safety ladder stand comprising a generally rectangular base having a front and rear and a center beam, a plurality of stair treads extending upward from the front of said base and means for supporting said stair treads secured to said base, front wheels mounted at the front of said base and beneath the top of said stair treads; center wheels mounted on said center beam of said base, and rear wheels mounted at the rear of said base, and a set of feet mounted on the front of said base; wherein said ladder stand has an activated position wherein said front and center wheel sets are in contact with the ground to enable said ladder stand to roll and said rear wheels and front support feet are not in contact with the ground, as well as a deactivated position wherein the front and center wheel sets are not in contact with the ground and said rear wheels and front support feet are in contact with the ground to prevent said ladder stand from being rolled; and means for moving said ladder stand from said deactivated
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Assignee: TNT Steel Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald G. Gillis, Daniel Johnson
  • Patent number: 6026931
    Abstract: A support frame assembly including at least one pair of generally vertical spaced uprights joined together by transversely extending structural members and having caster wheel support members for supporting a rotatably mounted caster wheel mounted axle and a pedal actuatable lever engaging the axle to allow selective movement of the caster wheel mounted axle between "mobile" and "use" mode conditions--the invention further including a joined second pair of generally vertical spaced uprights each having a caster wheel support member for yieldably supporting a caster wheel arrangement for selective movement between "mobile" and "use" modes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventor: Paul R. Swiderski
  • Patent number: 5941341
    Abstract: A safety ladder stand comprising a generally rectangular base having a front and rear and a center beam, a plurality of stair treads extending upward from the front of said base and means for supporting said stair treads secured to said base, front wheels mounted at the front of said base and beneath the top of said stair treads; center wheels mounted on said center beam of said base, and rear wheels mounted at the rear of said base, and a set of feet mounted on the front of said base; wherein said ladder stand has an activated position wherein said front and center wheel sets are in contact with the ground to enable said ladder stand to roll and said rear wheels and front support feet are not in contact with the ground, as well as a deactivated position wherein the front and center wheel sets are not in contact with the ground and said rear wheels and front support feet are in contact with the ground to prevent said ladder stand from being rolled; and means for moving said ladder stand from said deactivated
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Inventors: Donald G. Gillis, Daniel Johnson
  • Patent number: 5937967
    Abstract: A mobile scaffolding apparatus having wheel support means which can be moved out of engagement with the ground. The wheel support means are mounted to a conventional scaffolding frame made of at least three, preferably four, vertical posts rigidly connected by bracing members. A foot pad is rigidly connected to the lower end of each of the vertical posts. When the wheel support means are moved into engagement with the ground, the mobile scaffolding apparatus rests upon the wheel support means and can travel. When the wheel support means are moved out of engagement with the ground, the mobile scaffolding apparatus rests stationary on the scaffolding frame foot pads. The wheel support means are moved into and out of engagement with the ground through either pivoting or retracting the wheel support means. There are two embodiments for pivoting the wheel support means. In both embodiments, the wheel support means have a wheel and axle assembly, a pivoting rod, and a brace member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Inventor: Frank O. Morgan
  • Patent number: 5791434
    Abstract: A mobile ladder arrangement including base, ladder and linkage and caming assemblies therebetween to provide a foot actuated ladder assembly secured "use mode" and a hand actuated ladder assembly "mobile mode".
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventor: Paul R. Swiderski
  • Patent number: 5653307
    Abstract: The ladder system is located adjacent the front face of a storage rack. The ladder is carried by a cantilever supported carriage assembly having a pair of pivotally mounted frames. The ladder is connected to one frame and may move longitudinally along the front face of the storage rack. The ladder and its frame may also be moved laterally in an arc up to 90.degree. in a direction extending perpendicular to the front face of the storage rack. The carriage assembly includes a horizontal ladder support arm on the first frame upon which the ladder is mounted. A user can quickly and easily position the ladder at any position along the storage rack for accessing items stored on the shelves. This ladder system is particularly useful in crowded warehouse-type retail outlets which are now in popular use across the country.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 5, 1997
    Assignee: Material Control, Inc.
    Inventor: James F. Kerr
  • Patent number: 5653306
    Abstract: A ladder system comprising a ladder having side rails and a plurality of steps disposed between the side rails. The ladder system also is comprised of at least one corner brace for supporting a bottom step of the ladder. The corner brace is attached to a side rail of the ladder and the bottom step. Additionally, the ladder system is comprised of at least one caster assembly integrally attached to the corner brace for allowing the ladder to roll. Preferably, the caster assembly and corner brace are disposed on the ladder such that a predetermined weight placed on the ladder prevents the ladder from rolling. The corner brace is preferably comprised of a first portion, a second portion connected to the first portion and a third portion connected to the second portion. The first portion is attached to a bottom of the ladder. The second portion is attached to the caster assembly. Additionally, the third portion is attached to a rail of the ladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 5, 1997
    Assignee: Werner Co.
    Inventors: Roy B. Bendickson, Jay P. Smith
  • Patent number: 5228534
    Abstract: A portable scaffold has a frame with a pair of spaced apart, longitudinal members which are essentially parallel to the direction of forward travel of the frame. The frame has a plurality of wheel assemblies attached to each corner thereof with pneumatic tires thereon so that the frame can travel over public roads or the like. A scaffold structure is attached to the longitudinal members by an attachment structure which will telescope between a narrow length which is within legal limits for highway travel. Similarly, transverse members connecting the longitudinal frame members together are provided which also can be telescoped between a narrow distance for legal travel down a public highway and a wider distance which provides the necessary base of a platform for the scaffold so that the scaffold can extend higher than would otherwise be permissible if the portable platform could not be widened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1993
    Inventor: Acey A. Haroldson, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5086522
    Abstract: A drain plug apparatus includes securement to an associated fluid reservoir, wherein the apparatus further includes a pressure nut mounted to the reservoir, with a discharge screw directed through the pressure nut, wherein the discharge screw includes a central conduit cooperative with and in fluid communication with a through-extending head conduit arranged orthogonally relative to the through-extending conduit to direct fluid from the reservoir exteriorly thereof. The discharge screw includes a conical head to be received within a conical seat formed within the pressure nut. The pressure nut may include a boss directed exteriorly of the pressure nut and integral therewith to receive a tube thereabout to permit directing of discharge fluid through an associated flexible tube to be received within an associated container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1992
    Inventor: George D. Stofko, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5005667
    Abstract: An extensible and retractable step assembly for a floor cabinet having an open rectangular base slidably mounted in an interior space at the bottom of the cabinet immediately above the floor and selectively positionable in the cabinet or in front of the cabinet, a step which fits inside this base, and slidable pivoted linkages connecting the step to the base and permitting the step to be raised up from the base when the base is extended in front of the cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1991
    Inventor: Eddy Anderson
  • Patent number: 4883282
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus used by the handicapped, feeble or elderly sepecially in the process of dressing. An upright wheel support structure is provided and includes a handle about an upper portion thereof. A suction device is disposed about the lower part of the structure and acts to grip the floor so as to anchor the entire apparatus. While anchored an individual can grasp the handle and support him or herself while being dressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1989
    Inventors: Isobel T. Wolf, Clifton Baldwin
  • Patent number: 4807719
    Abstract: Apparatus for ascending scaffolding (10). The apparatus includes a ladder (24) having an inner upright (26) which is pivotally mounted with respect to an upright (20) of an end frame (12) of the scaffolding (10). The ladder (24) is disposed for pivoting between a retracted position, wherein the latter (24) overlies the end frame (12) of the scaffolding (10) to which it is attached, and an extended position, wherein the ladder (24) is pivoted, typically, 180.degree. relative to the retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1989
    Assignee: Side Step Inc.
    Inventors: George W. Burkstrand, Lowell E. Burkstrand
  • Patent number: 4727958
    Abstract: An automobile mechanic's body support includes a H-shaped mobile frame with an attached upstanding support platform. The support platform includes knee rests and a chest support with appropriate adjustment means being provided for positioning the various rests at selected heights. The chest support is mounted to a curved rod which allows the mechanic to position his body over a vehicle's engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 1, 1988
    Inventor: Roger N. Botello
  • Patent number: 4652003
    Abstract: A service cart assembly including a cart having a lower base equipped with a plurality of rollers or wheels thereunder and a plurality of posts erected standing upright from the lower base with a top plate installed thereupon, and a stepladder built in the cart having a rear leg element fixed rigidly to the rear end portion of a top plate of said stepladder and having a front leg element connected pivotally to the front end portion thereof. The step ladder further includes a connecting arm assembly connected pivotally at the rear end thereof to the lower base of the cart and at the front end thereof to the rear leg element of the stepladder, and a latch mechanism for engagement with the top step of the stepladder mounted on the front pair of the posts standing upright from the cart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1985
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1987
    Inventor: Masashi Karashima
  • Patent number: 4646876
    Abstract: A walking ladder is provided and consists of a spring loaded tripod suspended from a step ladder which converts the step ladder into a self moving support. A person standing on the step ladder can shift their weight from the ladder to the tripod and then back onto the ladder while always remaining on the ladder so as to reposition the ladder anywhere in the immediate area of the tripod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1987
    Inventor: Robert S. Grawi
  • Patent number: 4624341
    Abstract: An extensible foot stool apparatus (10) comprising a generally conical housing unit (11) having retractable roller units (12), and adapted to slideably and releasably receive a generally cylindrical primary weight supporting unit (13) in both a retracted and extended mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1985
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1986
    Inventor: David B. Lee
  • Patent number: 4610454
    Abstract: An improvement in the form of an attachment to a conventional shopping cart comprises a platform to which is secured a pivot bar, the length of which is proportioned to extend beyond the ends of the platform in a position to be pivotally connected to transversely spaced frame members of the cart. The platform is secured to the top portion a frame in the form of transversely spaced, identically formed, metal loops, having reinforcing or bracing bars extending therebetween. The attachment, in one extreme position to which it is pivotally swingable, becomes wholly recessed within the space beneath the basket of the shopping cart, while in another extreme position, the platform is disposed horizontally and is extended rearwardly from the shopping cart, thus to provide a step on which one can stand to reach articles on higher shelves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1985
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1986
    Inventor: William H. Gill
  • Patent number: 4456095
    Abstract: A levelling device for ladders has a pair of locking bars (24, 32, 51, 52) pivotally mounted on the ladder (28, 31, 42). A support arc (16, 33, 48), having feet (19, 34) at each end, passes through apertures (50) in the locking bars (24, 33, 51, 52). Springs (25, 46) interconnecting each locking bar (24, 32, 51, 52) and the ladder (28, 31, 42) urge the locking bars (24, 32, 51, 52) to an unlocked position where the support arc (16, 33, 48) is free to pass through the apertures (50). When weight is applied to the ladder (28, 31, 42), the locking bars (24, 32, 51, 52) are urged to a locked position, against the springs (25, 46), where the sides of the apertures (50) engage the support arc (16, 33, 48) to lock it against further movement. By adjustment of the support arc (16, 33, 48), the feet (19, 34) may be raised or lowered to accommodate any irregularities in the support surface so that the ladder (28, 31, 42) will stand vertically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1982
    Date of Patent: June 26, 1984
    Assignee: Milba Properties Pty. Ltd.
    Inventor: Baden L. Hodson
  • Patent number: 4431080
    Abstract: A portable auctioneer's podium assembly movably supported on casters that may occupy either a first or second position, which assembly when in the first is defined by a vertically disposable elongate structure that supports a shelf on which the auctioneer may rest papers and the like, and an elevated platform rearwardly of the structure on which the auctioneer may stand to look down on a crowd to spot bidders. The platform is hingedly connected to the structure and may be pivoted into the latter when the assembly is disposed in a second position to occupy less space than in the first position to facilitate the transportation of the assembly from one auction site to another. Fastening means are provided to removably secure the platform in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1981
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1984
    Inventor: James E. Everhart
  • Patent number: 4167286
    Abstract: A multi-passenger vehicle such as a bus has a lateral entry and exit door which opens a stairwell. One or more passenger seats are arranged immediately adjacent to the stairwell. The passenger seat is oriented in such a manner relative to the longitudinal axis of the bus that the passenger either faces in the travel direction or in the opposite direction. A foot rest plate covers the stairwell when the door is closed. The foot rest plate is hinged about a horizontal axis extending across the longitudinal axis of the bus. In the upwardly tilted position the foot rest plate does not interfere with the free use of the stairwell for its purpose and in the closed position the foot rest plate makes the particular seat adjacent to the stairwell as comfortable as any other seat in the bus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1978
    Date of Patent: September 11, 1979
    Assignee: Maschinenfabrik Augsburg-Nuernberg Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Ludwig Geyer
  • Patent number: 4166516
    Abstract: A spring loaded, adjustable caster is disclosed which is used in combination with a rolling ladder. The adjustable caster comprises a wheel, a wheel mount for mounting the wheel, a longitudinal adjustable shank including a connecting rod having a threaded bore and a threaded shaft disposed in screwthreaded engagement with each other, whereby the length of the longitudinal adjustable shank may be varied. A jam nut is disposed in threadingly fitted engagement on the threaded shaft intermediate to the connecting rod and the wheel mount, whereby the jam nut may be rotated into a biasing relationship to the connecting rod. The caster further includes a sleeve adapted for sliding support of the connecting rod and with a spring disposed within the sleeve to provide a compressed relationship between the sleeve and the connecting rod. The sleeve is then mounted on a rolling ladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1978
    Date of Patent: September 4, 1979
    Assignee: Equipment Company of America
    Inventor: Elmer T. Thurmond, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4155423
    Abstract: A step stool comprising a base having a top surface adapted to be located upwardly from the ground; an aperture through the top surface; an elongated support; a platform on the support, the support being movable longitudinally through the aperture between a collapsed position in which the platform lies on the top surface and an extended position in which the platform is spaced upwardly from the top surface; and engagement means on the support operative to engage the surround of the aperture on one side of the aperture with the support bearing against the surround of the aperture on the opposite side of the aperture, to retain the support in its extended position against downward force exerted on the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1977
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1979
    Inventor: George C. Miller
  • Patent number: 3997024
    Abstract: A portable collapsible scaffold ladder has a pair of upright caster-mounted end members joined together by a horizontal platform member. A pull-out ladder for ascending to the platform is connectable at its upper end and slidable along its connected end member for movement between a nested position within that end member and a diagonally extending operative position. The platform member is joined to the two end members by T-shaped glide members pivoted to each of the four corners of the platform member. Each glide member has a glide portion slidable along one side of a connected end member and a pivot portion pivoted to an adjacent side portion of the platform member. Each glide member has a resilient leaf-type spring which carries two locking pins, one for interlocking with the platform and the other for interlocking with one of a series of pin-receiving openings in the upright.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1975
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1976
    Inventors: Anthony T. Fredricks, Paul F. Smith