And Platform Elevatable Relative To Its Support Patents (Class 182/69.6)
  • Patent number: 11952251
    Abstract: A lift dolly assembly includes a lift dolly having a base plate, a handle, and a frame. The dolly includes one or more wheels to permit the frame and the base plate to carry an object or load by tilting the dolly backwards. The assembly also includes a track, a lift mechanism, and a lift plate. These components are configured to work in communication with the dolly to support and allow the elevating and orienting of an object or load. In general operation, an object is located on a base plate 105 and is secured to a lift plate. The object may then be selectively lifted and oriented to a non-vertical orientation to allow the base of the object to extend fully outward beyond the base plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2024
    Inventor: Scott James
  • Patent number: 11766586
    Abstract: An orthostatic hypotension alleviation device comprising an outer casing comprising an aperture extending therethrough; a carriage arranged within the outer casing and configured to be reciprocally displaced towards and away from the aperture along a carriage displacement axis; a spindle arranged on the carriage and configured to rotate about a spindle axis; a tether at least partially wound around the spindle, the tether comprising a distal end extending through the aperture, the tether being arranged such that it can be extended from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration in which the tether is fully extended by pulling the distal end away from the aperture so rotating the spindle about the spindle axis; a spindle biasing mechanism connected to the spindle and configured to apply a biasing torque to the spindle about the spindle axis so as to bias the tether towards the retracted configuration; and, a carriage biasing mechanism arranged within the outer casing connected to the carriage and c
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2023
    Assignee: Medicon Ireland Limited
    Inventors: Lochlainn Connolly, Neil Fawkes, Ignatius McGowan
  • Patent number: 11607619
    Abstract: A ride system for an amusement park includes a ride vehicle configured to carry one or more passengers. The ride system further includes a first evacuation platform comprising a first section configured to be moved and disposed underneath the ride vehicle, wherein in use, the one or more passengers evacuate the ride vehicle by exiting onto the first section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2023
    Assignee: Universal City Studios LLC
    Inventor: Dennis McCormick
  • Patent number: 10618786
    Abstract: The aerial lift platform includes a control station, a floor including a positioning zone for an operator maneuvering the control station, and a railing. The platform includes a protection device located on a surface of the railing. The zone and the protection device each extend on either side of a plane perpendicular to the first surface of the railing. A width of the protection device, measured perpendicular to the plane, is larger than 30 cm. The protection device is movable between: •—a retracted position, in which a protrusion height of the protection device relative to the railing, measured perpendicular to the floor, has a value below 10 cm, and •—a protection position, in which the protrusion height has a value above 30 cm. The railing includes an opening for accessing the platform, which can be at least partially obstructed by closing elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2020
    Assignee: HAULOTTE GROUP
    Inventors: Sebastien Parot, Philippe Luminet
  • Patent number: 8985275
    Abstract: A lift safety system that prevents the lifting of a support platform from a support base until all of the support legs for the support base are supporting a minimum amount of weight to ensure stability of the lift. The support base includes a plurality of legs that extend outwardly with each of the legs having an adjustment member with a pad that engages a ground surface. As the adjustment member is adjusted downwardly with respect to the leg, a first engaging member connected to the adjustment member is elevated upwardly to engage a second engaging member thereby releasing a corresponding finger member attached to the support platform from the support base. Once all of the legs are supporting a minimum amount of weight, all of the finger members are released from the support base thereby allowing elevation of the support platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Reechcraft, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason M. Solhjem, Shane L. Nickel
  • Publication number: 20150034417
    Abstract: A lift safety system that prevents the lifting of a support platform from a support base until all of the support legs for the support base are supporting a minimum amount of weight to ensure stability of the lift. The support base includes a plurality of legs that extend outwardly with each of the legs having an adjustment member with a pad that engages a ground surface. As the adjustment member is adjusted downwardly with respect to the leg, a first engaging member connected to the adjustment member is elevated upwardly to engage a second engaging member thereby releasing a corresponding finger member attached to the support platform from the support base. Once all of the legs are supporting a minimum amount of weight, all of the finger members are released from the support base thereby allowing elevation of the support platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: Jason M. Solhjem, Shane L. Nickel
  • Publication number: 20150014093
    Abstract: A hydraulic control valve, a dual-cylinder extension system and an aerial work engineering machine. The control valve comprises a flow distributing and collecting valve, and control valve body is provided with a first oil opening, a second oil opening and a third oil opening. A first oil opening, a second oil opening and a third oil opening of said flow distributing and collecting valve are respectively communicated with the first oil opening, the second oil opening and the third oil opening of the valve body. The control valve has two working states, wherein, in the first working state, the oil path between the second oil opening and the third oil opening of the valve body is blocked; and in the second working state, the oil path between the second oil opening and the third oil opening of the valve body is opened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2012
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Applicant: Xuzhou Heavy Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Xianxin Shi, Xiaodong Xu, Demei Kong, Liangwei Lu
  • Patent number: 8863899
    Abstract: A lift safety system that prevents the lifting of a support platform from a support base until all of the support legs for the support base are supporting a minimum amount of weight to ensure stability of the lift. The support base includes a plurality of legs that extend outwardly with each of the legs having an adjustment member with a pad that engages a ground surface. As the adjustment member is adjusted downwardly with respect to the leg, a first engaging member connected to the adjustment member is elevated upwardly to engage a second engaging member thereby releasing a corresponding finger member attached to the support platform from the support base. Once all of the legs are supporting a minimum amount of weight, all of the finger members are released from the support base thereby allowing elevation of the support platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Reechcraft, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason M. Solhjem, Shane L. Nickel
  • Patent number: 8813911
    Abstract: A tactical vehicle incorporates a line deployment tower adapted for use by personnel transferring between an elevated location on the vehicle and a remote target location. The line deployment tower includes a base mounted to the vehicle at the elevated location. An elongated line boom has a proximal end attached to the base, and an opposite distal end. A flexible line is secured to the distal end of the line boom, and is adapted for extending downward from the elevated location when deployed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Patriot3, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles L. Fuqua, Steven S. Kahre
  • Publication number: 20140144724
    Abstract: A self-contained portable self-supporting scaffolding kit for mounting adjacent an elevated structure and allowing a user to reach the elevated structure to work thereon. The kit includes a movable base assembly that supports a tower assembly along which a platform assembly moves, in a use configuration. In a portable configuration, the kit is partially disassembled, folded and secured on the base assembly for transportation thereof, with all required equipment pieces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2013
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Applicants: Fiducie Familiale Poulin, Fiducie Familiale Andre St-Germain
    Inventors: André ST-GERMAIN, Gilles POULIN
  • Patent number: 8678135
    Abstract: An aerial work apparatus comprising a mobile chassis having a longitudinal centerline, a lift mechanism such as a scissors lift having a lower end connected to the chassis and an upper end which supports a work platform. The work platform has a longitudinal centerline which is laterally spaced from and parallel to the longitudinal centerline of the chassis such that the platform is laterally offset relative to the chassis and lift mechanism for substantially stabilizing the apparatus when handling heavy loads positioned at one side of the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: California Manufacturing & Engineering Co., LLC
    Inventors: Gary Crook, Richard Spencer
  • Publication number: 20140053665
    Abstract: A vehicle and method for tending to an elevated livestock cage includes a support frame, a base, a drive unit, and an elevated platform. The support frame extends upward from the base, and the drive unit is operatively attached to the base for moving the base along the aisle. The elevated platform is affixed to the support frame and is positioned above the base at a height suitable to facilitate access to the elevated livestock cage. The support frame and the elevated platform are configured to support an operator while moving the operator along an aisle of a confinement facility.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2013
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Inventors: Brian Andrew Jutte, Michael Timothy McCain
  • Patent number: 8622173
    Abstract: A deck deployment system is adapted to facilitate transfer of personnel between spaced elevations. The deck deployment system includes a deck defining a substantially flat and continuous deck surface for supporting personnel. A convertible stairway is hinged to the deck and adapted for movement between a stowed condition and a deployed condition. The convertible stairway includes an adjustable frame assembly and a series of articulating horizontally-disposed foot treads carried by the frame assembly. The foot treads remain substantially horizontal upon movement of the stairway between the stowed condition and the deployed condition. When the stairway is in the stowed condition, the foot treads integrate with the deck to form a substantially flat and continuous portion of the deck surface. When the stairway is in the deployed condition, the foot treads cooperate to form steps extending from the deck to an elevation spaced from the deck surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Patriot3, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles Louis Fuqua, Steven Scott Kahre
  • Publication number: 20130319792
    Abstract: Methods, systems and apparatuses for providing high electrical resistance for an upper control assembly (including control handles) of an aerial lift are provided through an isolation member that is integral to the upper control assembly and interposed between fluid lines in the control assembly and a set of fluid conduits that extend from the control assembly towards other portions of the aerial lift. The isolation member is a dielectric element that comprises a manifold that is made of material that is substantially electrically non-conductive, and that has a plurality of through-holes or hoses configured to allow hydraulic fluid to flow through the isolation member into and out of the fluid lines and conduits. These methods, systems and apparatuses are preferably used in upper control assemblies of aerial platforms that can carry one or more operators in order to prevent such operators from electrocution when controlling the lift.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventors: James Randall Christian, Andrew Keith Palican
  • Patent number: 8584802
    Abstract: There is provided a mobile height-adjustable platform that includes a chassis with ground engaging wheels. A mast is pivotally connected to the chassis and is movable between a transport position where the mast is parallel to and disposed over the chassis, and an operative position where the mast is perpendicular to the chassis and extends upwards. A conveyor moves along the mast and a work platform is pivotally connected to the conveyer. The work platform is movable between a transport position where the platform is parallel to the mast and an operating position where the platform is perpendicular to the mast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Rigless Rentals Inc
    Inventors: Joseph Earl, Thomas Samuel
  • Publication number: 20130186708
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to lift vehicles that include a carriage having at least three wheels, a lift and a load carrying frame. The load carrying frame is connected to the lift, which is connected to the carriage. A selectively deployable platform is disclosed that is pivotably connected to the carriage and movable between a stowed position and a support position. At least two rollers may be spaced apart and configured to engage and slidably support a battery above the carriage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Inventors: Lili Wu, Nengwen Bao, Linjie Xu, Qichen Ma, Jin Hui He, William J. Pedriana
  • Publication number: 20130001012
    Abstract: A portable modular lift system that may be easily transported to a lifting location and compactly stored when not in use. The portable modular lift system generally includes a support base having a plurality of base wheels, a plurality of mast sections connectable to one another to form a vertical mast, a support platform movably positioned upon the vertical mast, and a drive unit connected to the support platform to elevate and lower the support platform upon the mast sections. The mast sections include a plurality of receiver apertures within a first end and a plurality of locking pins extending from a second end that are catchably received within the corresponding receiver apertures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: REECHCRAFT, INC.
    Inventors: Jason M. Solhjem, Shane L. Nickel
  • Publication number: 20130001013
    Abstract: A lift safety system that prevents the lifting of a support platform from a support base until all of the support legs for the support base are supporting a minimum amount of weight to ensure stability of the lift. The support base includes a plurality of legs that extend outwardly with each of the legs having an adjustment member with a pad that engages a ground surface. As the adjustment member is adjusted downwardly with respect to the leg, a first engaging member connected to the adjustment member is elevated upwardly to engage a second engaging member thereby releasing a corresponding finger member attached to the support platform from the support base. Once all of the legs are supporting a minimum amount of weight, all of the finger members are released from the support base thereby allowing elevation of the support platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: REECHCRAFT, INC.
    Inventors: Jason M. Solhjem, Shane L. Nickel
  • Patent number: 8292032
    Abstract: A platform lift for use with a vehicle includes a platform assembly having a plurality of support legs, and a lift mechanism having a support portion moveable between at least a first position and a second position. The platform assembly may be configured to be supported by the support portion when the support portion is in the first position, and further configured to be supported by the support legs substantially independent from the lift mechanism and the vehicle when the support portion is in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Inventor: Theodore Fred Knaak
  • Patent number: 8251177
    Abstract: A collapsible access tower has a chassis 10 supporting a pair of road wheels 11 and outriggers 16,17 to impart stability when in use, and a pair of extensible multi-section columns 26,50 carrying a platform 35. A section 27 of one column 26 is rigidly connected to the chassis and another section 33 of that column to the platform 35. The other column is configured as an extendible ladder 50 one section 51 of which is hinged to the chassis 10 and another section 52 of which is hinged to the platform 35. When the platform is in its lowermost setting, the hinged connections of the two sections 51,52 of the ladder 50 are co-axial so that the ladder may be pivoted to a transit setting. A winch arrangement 39 is associated with column 26 to allow raising and lowering of the platform 35.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Monkey Tower Limited
    Inventor: Alan Watt
  • Publication number: 20120205194
    Abstract: Ladder with vertical elevator for access to aircrafts, including a platform (in compliance with NBR 15.655) provided with a vertical elevator having proper size, adapted with special adjustments to ensure accessibility to the aircraft for people with special needs, being this platform attached to a ladder that enables varying the lifting height according to the access height of the aircraft. The ladder has a system that allows varying the height of the steps, so that it becomes leveled with the access to the aircraft, within the height parameters according to which it was designed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2011
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Inventor: Ricardo Hummel
  • Publication number: 20120186908
    Abstract: An aerial work apparatus comprising a mobile chassis having a longitudinal centerline, a lift mechanism such as a scissors lift having a lower end connected to the chassis and an upper end which supports a work platform. The work platform has a longitudinal centerline which is laterally spaced from and parallel to the longitudinal centerline of the chassis such that the platform is laterally offset relative to the chassis and lift mechanism for substantially stabilizing the apparatus when handling heavy loads positioned at one side of the platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2012
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: CALIFORNIA MANUFACTURING & ENGINEERING COMPANY, LLC
    Inventors: Gary CROOK, Richard SPENCER
  • Patent number: 8151935
    Abstract: A lifting and positioning apparatus (10) including a base support (14), an elevator mechanism (12) having an upper and a lower end; an actuator (21) for operating the elevator mechanism between a collapsed and a raised operating position; and a positioning component (20) mounted on the upper end of the elevator mechanism providing for horizontal linear motion backwards and forwards in a first direction (X), horizontal linear motion backwards and forwards in a second direction (Y), and horizontal rotation (Z).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Inventor: Geoff Graham
  • Publication number: 20120043159
    Abstract: A vehicle is provided with a chassis having a footprint, a load carrying structure, and a support assembly coupling the chassis and the structure. The support assembly is adapted to move the structure relative to the chassis between a stowed position and a deployed position outboard of the footprint of the chassis. A plurality of wheels is configured to roll on the support surface and a plurality of axles coupling the wheels to the chassis are provided. Each axle includes at least one spindle supporting an individual wheel for rotation on a spindle axis. A steering system is adapted to position the wheels between driving and rotation arrangements with respect to the chassis such that in the rotating arrangement each of the plurality of wheels rotate relative to the chassis whereby the chassis, the platform and the support assembly may rotate in unison about the steer axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2010
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Applicant: GENIE INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Brian M. Clark, David Reed, Jim Dean, Mark Case, Justin Stansberry
  • Patent number: 8079444
    Abstract: A transportable, self-erecting, battery powered, vertical lift assembly includes a wheeled frame with a towing attachment mechanism. A linear guide member with an exterior roller chain member is pivotally secured to the frame. A carriage member with attached platform member is movably mounted to the linear guide member adjacent the frame. The carriage member includes an attached drive mechanism with a battery powered DC motor driving a gear unit operatively connected to a sprocket, which engages the roller chain member on the linear guide member. The carriage member and attached platform member are movable along the linear guide member by the drive mechanism to pivot and elevate the guide member, which engages a vertical support structure, and to elevate the carriage member and attached platform member. A safety brake assembly immobilizes the carriage member with respect to the linear guide member upon relative movement between the carriage member and drive mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Elevated Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: William J. Rands, Michael S. Schumacher
  • Publication number: 20110253476
    Abstract: There is provided a mobile height-adjustable platform that includes a chassis with ground engaging wheels. A mast is pivotally connected to the chassis and is movable between a transport position where the mast is parallel to and disposed over the chassis, and an operative position where the mast is perpendicular to the chassis and extends upwards. A conveyor moves along the mast and a work platform is pivotally connected to the conveyer. The work platform is movable between a transport position where the platform is parallel to the mast and an operating position where the platform is perpendicular to the mast.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Applicant: RIGLESS RENTALS INC
    Inventors: Joseph Earl, Thomas Samuel
  • Patent number: 7735605
    Abstract: A method for erecting a platform is presented. The method includes providing a selectively liftable platform mechanism wherein the platform mechanism generally includes a platform, a trailer, at least one support bar, and a ladder. The at least one support bar and the ladder provide structural support for the platform when the platform is raised above the trailer. The at least one support bar has a proximal end pivotally connected to a first end of the trailer, and a distal end pivotally connected to the platform. The ladder has a distal end pivotally connected to the platform, and a proximal end pivotally and slidably connected to the trailer. The proximal end of the ladder is movable along a longitudinal axis of the trailer in order to level the platform in its raised position. The platform mechanism also includes a cable operatively connected to the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Inventor: Kenneth Davis
  • Patent number: 7607513
    Abstract: A hand truck having a folding platform attached to a wheeled base. The base having an arrangement of stabilizing bars and feet and vertically extensible masts that raise and lower the folding platform by operation of a motor attached to the base. The platform of the hand truck, when in the extended position, has modular removable railings attached along the perimeter of different platform sections. The platform is collapsible about pivot pins and suspended by chains attached to brackets atop the extensible masts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Inventor: Elmo Rojas
  • Patent number: 7607608
    Abstract: Ground carts to support skid equipped aircraft and to maneuver these craft safely on the ground during taxiing for take off, recovery, servicing, and transport to maintenance or storage. The ground carts provide the capability to minimize risks of damage to aircraft during towing by lifting the aircraft off the ground. Further, an embodiment of the ground cart of the invention includes the ability to rotate the aircraft on a cart platform up to 90° from the direction of forward motion of the cart to facilitate movement in and around the airport apron/hanger and to counter cross winds during take off. In addition, carts may be controlled from the aircraft, for example to provide for steering control until the aircraft is launched, cart braking, platform rotation, and other maneuvers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Russell W. Morris, Gerald D. Miller, Wesley F. Moore
  • Publication number: 20090174176
    Abstract: The safety guard mechanism for a lifting device is a mechanism that can automatically deploy a safety guard pivotally mounted to the lower surface of the frame of a portable aerial lift device when the lift is raised. By lowering the guard member, the distance between the lower surface of the base and the ground is decreased. The helical screw-based mechanical device includes a mechanical translator coupled with a rotator, the entire assembly interconnecting the guard member and a scissors-type lift so that raising the lift drives the lowering of the guard member. In the lowered position, the guard prevents tipping of the lift should one or more wheels enter a pothole or other depression. A helical screw latch is included to provide a self-locking feature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Inventor: Kan Cui
  • Patent number: 7546902
    Abstract: Accordingly, embodiments of the inventive disclosures made herein comprise a personnel lift apparatus for raising or lowering a standing person between two or more elevations or from a base elevation to a raised elevation. A moveable lift platform rides within a track provided on a pair of substantially upright side rails. The platform is connected by a flexible metallic cable to an electrically operated winch. The personnel lift eliminates steps and ladders on recreational items or any equipment requiring climbing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2009
    Inventor: Larry Victor Schwertner
  • Publication number: 20090100614
    Abstract: A device for a gangway construction is described, which is characterised in that it is composed of a number of sections, each comprising a polygonal frame, one connected to the frame formed as a landing, and a gangway, the one end of which is hinge-connected to the frame/landing while the other end is set up to rest against the frame/landing of an underlying frame, and the construction is arranged to be readjusted between a folded position where the sections are lying on top of each other, as in a stack of frames, with each gangway inserted in the frame, and an active, using position where the frames are set up a distance apart so that the gangways form a suitable angle between adjoining landings/frames. Also described are a section for building a gangway construction, a railing construction and also applications of the invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2006
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventors: Leiv Andre Dale, Lars Bjoland, Bjorn T. Akselsen
  • Patent number: 7513333
    Abstract: A selectively liftable platform mechanism is first provided. The platform mechanism generally includes a trailer, a platform, and a support structure on the trailer for pivotally raising the platform from a lowered position to an elevated position. The support structure includes a ladder having a distal end pivotally connected to the platform and a proximal end pivotally and slidably connected to the trailer. The proximal end of the ladder is movable along the longitudinal axis of the trailer in order to level and stabilize the platform into a viewing position. A method for erecting a shooting house is also provided. The shooting house is positioned onto the liftable platform mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Inventor: Kenneth Davis
  • Publication number: 20090078502
    Abstract: A working platform (1) for aircraft maintenance has two chassis (3a, 3b), a working stage (5) and two height-adjustable support means (4a, 4b) connecting the working stage (5) to the chassis (3a, 3b). The working surface of the working stage (5) is assembled from at least two mutually separable segments (_b 5a, 5b, . . . ), wherein a first (5a) of the segments is supported by the first chassis (3a) and the first height-adjustable support means (4a) and a second (5b) of the segments is supported by the second chassis (3a) and the second height adjustable support means (4b).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2008
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Inventor: Frank Knurr
  • Patent number: 7448470
    Abstract: A wheeled maintenance stand for aircraft has a worker platform elevated by a pair of double scissor linkages, which have track and follower connections with a mobile base frame and the worker platform. A staircase with self-leveling steps is connected to a laterally outer side of one of the double scissor linkages. A power unit supplies fluid power for propelling the stand, operating the scissor linkages and steering. The upper worker platform has left, right and center rolling sections. A manually operated brake is provides for each of the rolling sections. Electric power, compressed air and cooling air are supplied to the upper work platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: Aluminum Ladder Company
    Inventors: Eugene R. Brown, Eugene R. Nelson
  • Patent number: 7383923
    Abstract: An elevating load platform comprising a base member and a load supporting member interconnected by a linkage means that facilitates vertical movement of the load supporting member generally parallel to the base member, and a plurality of coil springs positioned to urge the load supporting member upwardly relative to the base member so that when the load supporting member is laden the coil springs are compressed, and as the load is progressively removed the coil springs urge the load supporting member upwards to thereby maintain the load supporting member at a desired height, the linkage means comprising a pair of spaced scissor linkages interconnected by a central cross-member, the plurality of compression springs being positioned in a spaced array interposed between the base member and the cross-member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: Amiata Holdings Pty Ltd.
    Inventors: Sidney A. Patten, David M. Munro
  • Patent number: 7370725
    Abstract: A device supported by a ground surface and a structure for at least one of elevating and descending a user. The device includes a first guide rail having a first channel extending along a length thereof and a second guide rail having a second channel extending along the length thereof. At least one connector connects the first guide rail with the second guide rail at a predetermined location along a length thereof so that said first channel and said second channel face inwards towards each other. A platform for supporting the user having a predetermined amount of weight is connected within each of the first and second channels and between the first guide rail and second guide rail. The device further includes means for moving the platform along the length of each of the first channel and the second channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Inventor: Gary R Dornfeld
  • Patent number: 7281736
    Abstract: A pothole protection mechanism provides additional support for the vehicle in the event a wheel is driven into a hole while the platform is elevated. The mechanism includes an extendible and retractable pothole protection bar. A mechanism serves to actuate the pothole protection mechanism based on a position of the vehicle lifting section. The construction of the mechanism serves to prevent a crushing hazard while deploying the bar and tolerates fixed objects on the ground while raising the bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Assignee: JLG Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Muhammad Sannah, Joan LaSalle
  • Patent number: 7225898
    Abstract: A lift between lower and upper levels of a house includes a cabin and an essentially horizontal platform which is essentially vertically movable by actuating elements arranged thereunder. The actuating elements include at least one pair of rotatably mounted arms pivotally arranged around an axis in the middle part thereof. The free ends of the first arm of one pair are pivotable around a fixed axis and respectively around an axis sliding along the platform. The free ends of the second arm are pivotable around a fixed axis connected to the platform and respectively around a sliding axis. An actuating unit interacts with at least one of the arms such that the pivot axis of the second arm for the platform, the middle pivot axis of the arms of the pair and the pivot axis of the first arm are never aligned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Inventor: Alain Bourgeois
  • Patent number: 7096998
    Abstract: A combination elevator and stairway may be installed beneath a set of stairs and includes a lift mechanism which raises and lowers a platform or enclosed car and a pivoting stairway. The lift may be hydraulically or electrically actuated and may include a telescoping lift mechanism or scissor mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Inventor: Todd M. Edmunds
  • Patent number: 7093691
    Abstract: A lift assembly includes a first platform provided with a top surface, a pair of opposed sides, and wheels and brackets connected to one of the sides for rotating the assembly. A plurality of rectilinear support shafts have opposed end portions conjoined to the platform and extending upwardly therefrom, and are spaced at opposed corners of the platform. Inverted U-shape guide rails are telescopically engageable along a length of the support shafts and have a pair of rectilinear regions slidably positionable about the support shafts. A second platform is provided with top and bottom surfaces, and apertures formed at opposed corners thereof that are vertically registered with the support shafts. A lifting mechanism is included for vertically biasing the second platform and the guide rails along the support shafts. The lifting mechanism is connected to the top surface of the first platform and the bottom surface of the second platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Inventors: Barry Vaughan, Alvin Vaughan
  • Patent number: 6925760
    Abstract: Stackable modular arena seating risers include permanently attached high quality fold down seats that are the equal of normal arena seats. Stacking of the riser modules is facilitated by the use of quick lock stacking tubes fit into locator cups permanently attached into each corner of the deck of each module. Fork lifting channels of the proper size and spacing are provided on three sides of each module to facilitate movement of the entire stack and the stacking, unstacking, and movement of individual modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Inventor: Scott Suprina
  • Patent number: 6802391
    Abstract: The invention is a loading system, which is a combination adjustable height stairway and a landing platform at one end that can be elevated to the level of the aircraft loading door and a lifting portion for loading articles to and from the landing platform. Both the lifting portion and the adjustable height stairway are side by side and are adapted to move in unison to and from the aircraft and further adapted to independently elevate or descend. The stairway and lifting portion may each be independently operated by at least one hydraulically driven motor. The system can moved to and from the aircraft using a combination of independent drive wheels and swivel wheels in order to provide tight maneuverability of the combined stairway and lifting portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Inventor: Jeff Ganiere
  • Patent number: 6702064
    Abstract: A lifter includes a beam tiltably secured on top of an elevator for supporting an object to be elevated. A base is secured on top of the elevator, and a seat secured to the beam and having one end rotatably secured to the base with a shaft. A bracket and a spring may resiliently support the shaft in the seat. A plate is secured on the seat, a board secured to the beam and rotatably secured on the plate, and a spring biased pin may position the board to the plate at the required angular position. One or more posts and arms may be attached to the beam for supporting the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Inventor: Chin Piao Huang
  • Publication number: 20040035636
    Abstract: A ground-movable load-lifting vehicle for lifting a load over ground. The vehicle comprises a platform bed, a ground-movable carriage, and an extendible scissor linkage assembly supporting the platform bed spacedly over the carriage. A hydraulic ram system enables power extension of the scissor linkage assembly against the bias of a load supported by said platform bed. The carriage further includes peripheral ground-engageable pivotal casters, rotatably mounted to the carriage in spaced apart fashion, and a pair of ground-engageable drive wheel assemblies, mounted for relative movement to a central portion of the carriage, wherein the drive wheel assemblies provide omnidirectional displacement capability for this load-lifting vehicle. A power unit, controlled by an electronic circuit, powers both the hydraulic rams of the scissor linkage assembly and the drive wheel assemblies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2002
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Inventor: Romain Julien
  • Publication number: 20030217891
    Abstract: The invention is a loading system, which is a combination adjustable height stairway and a landing platform at one end that can be elevated to the level of the aircraft loading door and a lifting portion for loading articles to and from the landing platform. Both the lifting portion and the adjustable height stairway are side by side and are adapted to move in unison to and from the aircraft and further adapted to independently elevate or descend. The stairway and lifting portion may each be independently operated by at least one hydraulically driven motor. The system can moved to and from the aircraft using a combination of independent drive wheels and swivel wheels in order to provide tight maneuverability of the combined stairway and lifting portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2002
    Publication date: November 27, 2003
    Inventor: Jeff Ganiere
  • Patent number: 6464037
    Abstract: A reconfigurable work platform for an aerial work platform system includes at least one outwardly tiltable portion on which an occupant of the work platform can lean so as to extend his or her lateral reach. This is useful when the work platform itself cannot be moved closer to a desired location. An aerial work platform system using such a reconfigurable work platform, and a method for reconfiguring a work platform are also contemplated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Assignee: Delta Manlift S.A.S.
    Inventors: Jean-Luc Baldas, Jean-Claude Albert
  • Patent number: 6439635
    Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses a hydraulic seat lift 20 for an all-terrain vehicle 26 having the driver's seat 16 located on a top portion of a platform 20 and the superior end of the hydraulic scissor-lift mechanism 44 fastened to a side portion of the platform 20 in a manner that would raise the driver seated on the platform as the hydraulic scissor-lift mechanism 44 is extended and would lower the operator as it retracts. The hydraulic scissor-lift mechanism comprises two hydraulically powered scissor-lifts 44 located on opposing sides of the seat lift platform 20 with each scissor-lift comprising inversely paired diagonal cross-members that are medially connected to one another with the distal ends of each pair of cross-members pivotably connected to the distal ends of the next pair of cross-members which can be repeated to form a vertically stacked series of interconnected cross-members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Inventors: Robert B Hardy, David G Patterson, Richard Smith
  • Publication number: 20020074186
    Abstract: A reconfigurable work platform for an aerial work platform system is provided with at least one outwardly tiltable portion on which an occupant of the work platform can lean so as to extend his or her lateral reach. This is useful when the work platform itself cannot be moved closer to a desired location. An aerial work platform system using such a reconfigurable work platform, and a method for reconfiguring a work platform are also contemplated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Jean-Luc Baldas, Jean-Claude Albert
  • Patent number: 6390233
    Abstract: A method of operating a lifting apparatus for moving an arm structure is disclosed. The lifting apparatus includes a first arm structure and a second arm structure pivotally connected to the first arm structure. The apparatus further includes a moving device and a displacing link for displacing the moving device relative to at least the first or second arm structures. The displacing link provides the moving device with a mechanical advantage whereby work required to move the second arm structure is substantially reduced while lifting capacity of the second arm structure and the moving device is substantially increased, and the range of motion of the second arm structure relative to the first arm structure is also increased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: Grove U.S. LLC
    Inventor: Henry David Barthalow