Vehicle Support Patents (Class 212/180)
  • Patent number: 6651968
    Abstract: A portable, collapsible engine support apparatus. The device is attachable to the fender or firewall of the vehicle and is mountable either transversely or longitudinally above the engine compartment. A pair of primary load bearing metal angles are secured on opposite sides of the open engine compartment on either the fender or firewall. A pair of upstanding posts approximately centrally positioned on the upward facing surface of the angle, each of the upstanding posts including connection means adapted to lockingly receive horizontal support bars. A central connector allows for adjustment of the spacing between the metal angles. A flexible, adjustable attachment means depends from the central connector, the attachment means adaptable for engagement with the main engine hold. Adjustment of the attachment means to a desired tension ensures a high degree of positional stability of the engine when performing major repairs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Inventor: Alfred D. Reyes
  • Patent number: 6616397
    Abstract: A portable hoist system and method of use in combination with the rear bed and ball hitch of a pick-up truck. All of the system components may be contained in a portable bag about four feet long. The system components include plural boom sections, plural cables or support lines and a chain element. Two of the boom sections contain eyelets for support and lift purposes. The top side walls of the pick-up truck bed include eyelets for upward support of the boom sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Inventor: Jimmie G. Lester
  • Patent number: 6599078
    Abstract: An assembly for positioning and removably supporting cargo on the exterior of a vehicle, wherein the cargo is preferably mounted on a mobile carrier assembly such as a hand truck. A hoist assembly includes a winch and lifting cable and is concurrently supported, along with the mobile carrier, on a base which is removably secured to a hitch structure mounted on the vehicle. A support assembly is secured to the base and is structured to independently but concurrently support both the hoist assembly and the mobile carrier, with or without the cargo thereon. Upon removal of the mobile carrier from the vehicle, the cargo supported thereon can be transported over the ground or other support surface to an intended location for use without requiring repeated loading and unloading of the cargo from the mobile carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Inventor: George Scott Elder
  • Patent number: 6588521
    Abstract: A crawler that includes a first crawler assembly and a second crawler assembly attached to the first crawler assembly so that the first crawler assembly is aligned with the direction of travel of the second crawler assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Manitowoc Crane Companies, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth J. Porubcansky, David J. Pech, Alan E. Pleuss
  • Publication number: 20030116518
    Abstract: A davit arm system includes a base that supports a davit arm and engages an underlying ground surface. The system components are preferably designed for arrangement in alternative ways to accommodate different installation environments, and/or for packaging in a bag that may be carried by a single person. The relative positions of the components are preferably adjustable relative to the base to further accommodate different applications. Yet another desirable option is to mount the davit arm on the support base in a manner that allows rotation about both a vertical axis and a horizontal axis. A winch is preferably mounted on the davit arm in a manner that counterbalances the davit arm relative to its vertical axis of rotation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Inventors: Barry J. Austin, Travis P. Betcher, Weston L. Cutter, Patrick J. Novak
  • Patent number: 6578722
    Abstract: The present invention is for a portable hoist assembly that includes a base member, an upright support member and a boom. A winch and line are attached to the hoist assembly with an engagement member for lifting objects. The base member attaches to a receiving member. The receiving member may be a trailer hitch on a vehicle. The boom and base member pivot with respect to the support member to a collapsed storage position. The boom and base member extend substantially parallel to the support member, and an end of the boom attaches to the base member. The engagement member is inserted within the base member for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Inventors: Scott Perkins, Don Hamilton
  • Patent number: 6547507
    Abstract: A scooter lift includes a post and boom made from a single piece of curved pipe. The boom further includes an arm that is rotationally adjustable about the pipe to provide small, incremental changes in elevation. Incremental rotational adjustment is achieved by a plate attached to the pipe and having a first set of holes that align with second set holes in the angular portion. The holes are drilled in a pattern that provides a vernier-like adjustment of position. The post is mounted on a base such that at least some of the post overlies a point outside the footprint of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Vantage Mobility International, LLC
    Inventors: William E. Gest, Douglas M. Eaton
  • Patent number: 6530738
    Abstract: An article loader apparatus is provided for mounting on an all terrain vehicle (ATV) and includes a vehicle mounting assembly for mounting the apparatus onto the vehicle. A strut connector is connected to the vehicle mounting assembly. A strut member is connected to the strut connector for supporting the strut member on the vehicle mounting assembly. A cable guide is connected to a distal end of the strut member. A winch assembly is connected to the vehicle mounting assembly. The winch assembly includes a winch motor and a winch cable controlled by the winch motor. The winch cable is threaded through the cable guide. A stabilizer member connector is connected to a distal end of the strut member, and a pair of stabilizer chains are connected between the stabilizer member connector and the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Inventor: Willie R. Maxwell
  • Publication number: 20030000906
    Abstract: The present invention is for a portable hoist assembly that includes a base member, an upright support member and a boom. A winch and line are attached to the hoist assembly with an engagement member for lifting objects. The base member attaches to a receiving member. The receiving member may be a trailer hitch on a vehicle. The boom and base member pivot with respect to the support member to a collapsed storage position. The boom and base member extend substantially parallel to the support member, and an end of the boom attaches to the base member. The engagement member is inserted within the base member for storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Inventors: Scott Perkins, Don Hamilton
  • Publication number: 20020168258
    Abstract: The game hanger apparatus is attachable to a tow hitch of a pickup truck. The folded game hanger can be taken to the site in the bed of the truck and speedily installed in the tow hitch for hanging, cleaning and butchering large game, such as deer and small bears. The apparatus comprises a mast and fixed boom of square cross-section, and having a winch, pulleys and a gambrel with a pair of end hooks and a pair of pins which engage a jib at the end of the boom to prevent the game from twisting. The horizontal bottom and top bars are locked in place by removable pins for operation, and unlocked by removing the pins for folding the unit for storage. The bottom bar is inserted into a tow hitch and locked in place with the hitch pin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2002
    Publication date: November 14, 2002
    Inventors: Michael L. Philipps, Terry L. Philips, Charles Robinett
  • Patent number: 6478528
    Abstract: A mobile crane apparatus for lifting and moving heavy objects as desired by the user. The mobile crane apparatus includes a base frame being adapted to securely mount to a hitch receiver mounted on a vehicle; and also includes a bearing member being mounted upon the base member; and further includes a crane base support member being mounted to the bearing member and being rotatably and lockingly mounted the base member; and also includes a lift and carry member securely mounted upon the crane base support member; and further includes base stabilizing members adjustably mounted to the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Inventor: George N. Asbury
  • Patent number: 6460908
    Abstract: A hoist is collapsible into a storage box which is preferably mounted in place of a rear bumper on a pickup truck. The hoist has a tubular base which houses the swing arm of the hoist in the collapsed mode. The base of the storage box is reinforced to support the forces of the hoist and allow it to rotate 360 degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Inventor: Robert E. Green
  • Patent number: 6435360
    Abstract: A vehicle supported lift system in which a generally horizontal lift beam is supported at each end by supports. A hand operated lift mechanism is mounted on the beam and operates a vertically movable member extending downwardly from the beam for connection with the vehicle motor. A cast aluminum handle is preferably used to operate the lift mechanism and is manually operated. The hooks are mounted parallel and in close proximity to the horizontal beam and a chain with an attachment means on the end and extend downwardly from the beam. The legs are disposed adjacent the two ends of the beam, and are relatively short to permit the motor lift to be readily and conveniently mounted on the vehicle above the engine or in the cab of van type vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventor: Steven P. Buchmeier
  • Patent number: 6425727
    Abstract: A hoist for loading and unloading cargo from the bed of a truck includes a support member attached to the bed of the truck carrying a vertical mast for rotation about a vertical axis having a variable length boom pivotally connected at a lower end for rotation about a horizontal axis. A tie chain is connected between the upper end of the boom and mast varies the inclination of the boom member with respect to the mast member and the bed of the truck enabling the upper end of the boom to be accurately positioned with respect to select areas of the truck bed. An electric winch and cable are used for raising and lower cargo to and from the truck bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2002
    Inventor: Kyle Hood
  • Publication number: 20020074305
    Abstract: An improved lift mechanism that is portable and towable, and is attachable to a front end loader such as a skid steer™ and has a telescopic and angularly adjustable load carrying boom. The lift may be pivotable about the front end loader to allow for better positioning and use of it.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Stacia G. Davis, Bill Blanton, Aaron Fockler
  • Publication number: 20020056692
    Abstract: An articulating truss boom for use with a lifting machine is described. The articulating truss boom assembly includes an articulating truss boom frame, a stationary support member attachable to a lifting machine, and an internal pivot assembly having a vertical pivot axis interposed between and providing the connection between the stationary support member and the articulating truss boom frame. The articulating truss boom frame is capable of pivoting with respect to the stationary support member about the vertical pivot axis in a horizontal plane transverse to the vertical pivot axis. The articulating truss boom assembly includes a hydraulic assembly which includes a metering valve having a removable restrictor inserted therein. The removable restrictor has a constricted channel therethrough to limit the hydraulic fluid channeled to the hydraulic assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2001
    Publication date: May 16, 2002
    Inventors: Joseph J. Merkel, Albert jubeck, H. Peter Huttelmaier, Michael W. Wallschlaeger
  • Patent number: 6371314
    Abstract: A combination of an all terrain vehicle and a hoisting device for use therewith, the all terrain vehicle including a frame, a body mounted on the frame and wheels, the hoisting device comprising a hoisting device frame having at least one member extending rearwardly therefrom for securement to the all terrain vehicle, a boom having first and second ends with the first end of the boom being secured to the hoisting device frame, the boom being capable of being raised and lowered, and a support platform located at the second end of the boom. The combination is useful in activities such as hedge maintenance, window washing, and the like. The arrangement is relatively inexpensive and may be used with any suitable ATV.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Inventor: Patrick Boisvert
  • Patent number: 6336565
    Abstract: An articulating truss boom for use with a lifting machine is described. The articulating truss boom assembly includes an articulating truss boom frame, a stationary support member attachable to a lifting machine, and an internal pivot assembly having a vertical pivot axis interposed between and providing the connection between the stationary support member and the articulating truss boom frame. The articulating truss boom frame is capable of pivoting with respect to the stationary support member about the vertical pivot axis in a horizontal plane transverse to the vertical pivot axis. She articulating truss boom assembly includes a hydraulic assembly which includes a metering valve having a removable restrictor inserted therein. The removable restrictor has a constricted channel therethrough to limit the hydraulic fluid channeled to the hydraulic assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2002
    Inventors: Joseph J. Merkel, Al Jubeck, Michael W. Wallschlaeger
  • Patent number: 6253502
    Abstract: A conventional cargo or passenger-type van (typically about 14-24 feet in length) is fitted with a boom assembly that is readily transported with the van in a collapsed position and substantially parallel to the van roof, but can be elevated to a substantially vertical position, and quickly extended upwardly to full height. Where four booms are used, full height may be about 65 feet, or even more. A support frame is provided which substantially supports a main pedestal exteriorly of the roof and connected to the booms and an extension cylinder, to the van's main frame, including initially telescopic support posts disposed inside the van interior which do not impede access to the van interior from the side and rear doors, and which leave the center of the van interior essentially unobstructed. A pivotal connection for the first boom about which it moves from a transport to a substantially vertical position is mounted slightly to the rear of the centerline of the rear axle of the van.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Inventor: George F. Layton
  • Patent number: 6250483
    Abstract: A field hoist includes a support having a post extending upwardly therefrom. A base is slidably received over the post and is freely rotatable about an axis defined by the post. The base has a winch and pivot lock mounted thereto. The pivot lock engaging and disengaging the post and the base in a desired angular orientation with respect to the axis. An angled upright has a vertical portion which is telescopically received within the base. The angled upright has a sleeve extending upwardly atop the vertical portion at a preselected angle towards the side of the base having the winch mounted thereon. A support extension is slidably received within the sleeve and extends therefrom. A winch cable has a hook mounted at one end thereof, the other end of the winch cable being attached to the winch. The winch cable extending upwardly to the sleeve, upwardly along the sleeve and the support extension, and lastly extending downwardly from the end of the support extension. An animal hanger is provided on the hook.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Inventor: John C. Frommer
  • Patent number: 6155771
    Abstract: A load-bearing hoist (10) to lift and load game or other objects. The hoist (10) is particularly adapted for attachment to an ATV. The hoist (10) includes a 360 degree rotating horizontal boom (11) attached to a two-piece telescoping vertical shaft (28). The two-piece telescoping vertical shaft (28) allows the height of the boom (11) to be varied. The hoist (10) is attached to the ATV by a base plate (31) and support sleeve (13) which allows the hoist (10) to be supported in a vertical position and removes any weight load from the ATV. The base (16) of the hoist (10) can be used to carry a hunter's tree climber stand or gun case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Inventor: Andre' J. Montz
  • Patent number: 6138991
    Abstract: A hoist apparatus is provided for a vehicle, such as an all terrain vehicle (ATV) and includes a support bracket assembly for mounting on the vehicle. The support bracket assembly includes a horizontal support plate and a hoist-axle-reception channel depending downward from the horizontal support plate. A hoist assembly is provided and is supported by the support bracket assembly. The hoist assembly includes a hoist axle received in the hoist-axle-reception channel and includes a hoist base plate supported by the horizontal support plate. Game, such as a deer, can be supported by the hoist assembly and rotated around the support bracket assembly on the hoist axle and the hoist base plate. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, the support bracket assembly includes mounting plates for mounting on the rear of the vehicle. In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, the support bracket assembly is mounted on a side of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Inventor: Robert Myers, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6109855
    Abstract: A hoist and carrier apparatus for securing game to a vehicle. The hoist and carrier apparatus includes a device for connecting the apparatus to the vehicle and a vertical member having a first end connected to the connecting device, a second end and a pulley wheel disposed on the second end of the vertical member. A game hoist carrier receives the game and is releasably connected to and slideable along a length of the vertical member. A pulley is connected to and extends from the first vertical member and a cable extends from the pulley and over the pulley wheel for connecting to the game hoist carrier. When the cable is caused to be wound on the pulley, the game hoist carrier is caused to be pulled towards the vertical member and, upon being secured to the vertically extending member, slide upward along the length of the vertically extending member thereby raising any game releasably secured thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Inventor: Carlos E Vela-Cuellar
  • Patent number: 6095349
    Abstract: A knock-down portable hoist comprising a first member attachable to a support member, the first member supported substantially vertically by the support member, a second member insertable into and rotatably substantially vertically by the first member, such that the second member is rotatable about its longitudinal axis. The hoist further includes a boom member attachable to the second member, such that the boom member is supported substantially horizontally. An adjustable member is further provided which is movable along the longitudinal axis of the boom member and supported thereby. A hand-crankable winch assembly is further provided connectable to the second member for winding/unwinding a cable attached thereto. The cable is inserted through the boom member and through the adjustable for raising and lowering loads attached to the cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: ORM Consulting, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Vincent O'Meara
  • Patent number: 6082561
    Abstract: Disclosed is a novel jib crane for panel trucks, or vans wherein the crane pivots along a common axis between opposing fixed bearing mounts. In practice, one attaches a lifting apparatus ratus to a trolley of the jib. A payload is hoisted off the floor of the vehicle, and after pulling the locking pin, the jib/mast is manually rotated until the payload is clear of the vehicle. The payload is then lowered to the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: Lawrence G. Bembas
    Inventor: Lawrence Bembas
  • Patent number: 6045320
    Abstract: An arm attachment for an arm of a backhoe. The arm attachment attaches directly to a shovel to permit large objects to be picked up. A boom includes a support portion resting against the shovel and an extending portion. A cross member extends transversely from the support portion and stabilizers extend from the cross member to the extending portion. A lifting assembly is attached to a free end of the extending portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Inventor: Michael J. Cullen
  • Patent number: 6042328
    Abstract: A lifting device for attachment to a vehicle trailer hitch or the like. The device includes a hitch bar for attachment to the trailer hitch. A lateral extension arm is mounted on the hitch bar and a riser arm is rotatably mounted to the lateral extension arm. A boom arm is mounted on the riser arm, the boom arm having load attachment elements for attaching a load thereto. Also provided is a rotating element attached to the lateral extension arm and the boom arm for rotating the riser arm about the lateral extension arm to raise and lower the riser arm relative to the hitch bar. Raising and lowering of the riser arm moves the boom arm to transcribe a predetermined arc lying in a vertical plane. It is preferred to have the hitch bar centered on a platform centerline wherein the vertical plane intersects the centerline. The predetermined arc may be from about 130 degrees to about 150 degrees, and preferably 140 degrees, with respect to the bed of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Inventor: Arthur K. McVaugh
  • Patent number: 6010080
    Abstract: The device is for mounting on a self-propelled vehicle which hydraulically operate the device. The device includes an articulated boom, a boom support on which the articulated boom is mounted, the articulated boom being fixed to the boom support. The equipment is mounted at the end of the articulated boom to be raised or lowered. A hydraulic system including also a rack and pinion is used to rotate the boom support about a vertical axis, which means that the equipment such as a spray nozzle may be positioned at selected locations by simultaneously or alternately raising or lowering the equipment and pivoting it around the vertical axis of the boom support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Assignee: Plamondon Campquip LTEE
    Inventors: Alain Marchand, Raymond Hetu
  • Patent number: 5975831
    Abstract: A game hoist for mounting to the cargo rack of an all-terrain vehicle (ATV). The game hoist is mounted to the cargo rack using a base plate which has one or more sets of angle brackets mounted to the underside of the base plate. The sets of angle brackets form pockets or receptacles to slidably receive respective rods of the cargo rack. The base plate has an upward facing cylindrical post which receives a cylindrical column. A telescoping boom is provided with a cylindrical collar which fits over the top end of the column. The telescoping boom has an inner cylindrical member which is slidingly received in an outer cylindrical member. The inner cylindrical member may be telescoped outward from the outer cylindrical member. The outer end of the inner cylindrical member is provided with a manually operated winch. The winch is desirably provided with a ratchet mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Inventor: John W. Martin
  • Patent number: 5971177
    Abstract: A portable truck crane which mounts in the hitch receiver of a vehicle, and lifts objects. The crane is guyed so that the crane beam is subjected only to compressive forces, not rotational forces. A support leg allows the lifting of heavier loads, and a winch on the crane or the front bumper winch of the vehicle can be used to lift objects. The truck crane assembles without the use of tools, and stores either the seat of a pickup, in the bed of a pickup, in a tool box, or in a suitcase sized storage container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Inventor: E. Dan Carter
  • Patent number: 5862926
    Abstract: A pickup loading hoist for loading and unloading heavy cargo to and from a bed of a pickup without requiring physical exertion by the user and which can be easily disassembled into a compact storage position. The inventive device includes a front frame and a rear frame vertically aligned parallel to one another and removably attachable to the bed of the pickup, an I-beam secured traversely to the front and rear frames and extending a finite distance beyond the rear frame, a sliding member attached to the I-beam, and a winch for manipulating a chain with a hook.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1999
    Inventor: Clint Johnson
  • Patent number: 5853282
    Abstract: A scooter lift includes a base assembly for mounting on a surface of the storage area of the transport vehicle. A frame is rotatably mounted on the base assembly to rotate about a substantially vertical axis. A boom is pivotally mounted to the frame for rotation between a lowered and a raised position. A cable has a first end connected to a spool shaft and a second end for attachment to the scooter. The cable is guided by the boom to selectively raise or lower the scooter upon rotation of the spool shaft. The boom may be operated to its raised position to enable movement of the scooter into and out of the storage area, and the boom may be operated to its lowered position to permit storage of the scooter and lift in the vehicle storage area. A lock selectively locks the boom in its lowered and raised positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1998
    Assignee: Ranger All Season Corporation
    Inventors: Ronald F. Bechler, Kary D. Conaway
  • Patent number: 5848715
    Abstract: A roll bar and crane device for use with vehicles such as a truck is adapted to be mounted to the truck bed. The device includes left and right leg members and a central beam extending therebetween and being selectively detachable thereto. A U-shaped boom extends over the left and right leg members when used as a roll bar. The boom, at one end, is pivotally connected to a pivot member about a horizontal axis of rotation and the pivot member is pivotally connected to one of the leg members and is pivotable about a vertical axis of rotation. A hydraulic jack selectively lifts and lowers the boom when used as a crane. Covers are provided on the boom left and right legs and hide from plain view working components including the hydraulic jack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1998
    Inventor: Malcolm Duncan
  • Patent number: 5829605
    Abstract: In the present invention, there is provided a mobile crane for hoisting movable articles and for being towed to and from an article hoisting site behind a pickup truck having a hitch attachment. The mobile crane comprises a frame having a front end, a rear end, a pair of front wheels and a pair of rear wheels. The mobile crane also has a mast extending vertically from the frame and a boom support bracket affixed to the mast. A telescopic boom having a far end and a near end is movably cantilevered in the boom support bracket. A tow bar is removably connected to the far end of the boom. The tow bar has a hook-up member mounted thereon and is connectable to the hitch attachment of the pickup truck. A double-acting hydraulic cylinder is connected between the boom support bracket and the boom for raising the front wheels off the ground when the hook-up member is connected to the hitch attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Inventor: Hermel G. Poitras
  • Patent number: 5810547
    Abstract: An improved vehicle lift assembly for loading and unloading objects into and from a vehicle includes a base configured for being mounted to the vehicle, a vertical post extending from the base, an extension boom extending outward from a centerline of the post, a swing arm rotatably coupled to the extension arm, extension boom, an engaging mechanism supported by the swing arm for releasably engaging the object, and an actuator for raising and lowering the engaging mechanism to raise and lower the engaged object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Assignee: Michael Roman Bruno
    Inventors: Michael Roman Bruno, William Walter Belson, III, Robert Monroe Boyd
  • Patent number: 5788095
    Abstract: A boom and mast apparatus includes a transverse support member which has a proximal portion and a distal portion. A longitudinal mast assembly is connected to the distal portion of the transverse support member. The longitudinal mast assembly includes a support-member-connected end and a boom-member-connected end. The longitudinal mast assembly also includes a lower segment connected to the transverse support member, an upper segment, and a connector assembly for selectively connecting the upper segment to the lower segment. A first bearing ring is connected transversely to a topmost portion of the lower segment. A second bearing ring is connected transversely to a bottommost portion of the upper segment. The second bearing ring is placed in registration with the first bearing ring when the boom and mast apparatus is assembled. A boom member is connected to the boom-member-connected end of the longitudinal mast assembly. A winch assembly is connected to the upper segment of the longitudinal mast assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Inventor: Sammy Watson
  • Patent number: 5730304
    Abstract: A roll bar and crane device for use with vehicles such as a truck is adapted to be mounted to the truck bed. The device includes left and right leg members and a central beam extending therebetween and being selectively detachable thereto. A U-shaped boom extends over the left and right leg members when used as a roll bar. The boom, at one end, is pivotally connected to a pivot member about a horizontal axis of rotation and the pivot member is pivotally connected to one of the leg members and is pivotable about a vertical axis of rotation. A rope and pulley system is provided between the pivot member and the boom. A rope extends from the boom lift end to the pulley and rope system and to a winch that is located on and is rotatable with the pivot member. By pulling the rope via the winch, objects attached to the end of the rope are drawn up and to the boom lift end and the boom is also caused to pivot about the horizontal axis of rotation for lifting the boom lift end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Inventor: Malcolm Duncan
  • Patent number: 5725112
    Abstract: A portable crane for use on a pickup or utility truck is disclosed. The crane has a mounting base rotatably mountable to a tray of the motor vehicle. The crane includes a post connectable to a base frame which is welded to the mounting base. A lifting arm and a brace are telescopically arranged for different use configurations. The post, the brace and the lifting arm are able to be folded together to be substantially parallel when the crane is in its folded configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Inventor: Donald Frederick Thorby
  • Patent number: 5720400
    Abstract: A portable hoist is provided for lifting and moving heavy loads a short distance. The hoist has a rectangular frame which supports a movable carriage containing a winch and pulley. The rectangular frame is adjustable along corner legs which allows individual leg adjustment. Parallel longitudinal side frame members include tracks and channels for rollers to support and direct the carriage along the frame. The winch can be operated by an electric hand drill to enable an individual to move and lift several hundred pounds without assistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 24, 1998
    Inventor: Joseph W. Altizer, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5690240
    Abstract: A portable crane assembly is disclosed including a support that can be selectively coupled to and decoupled from a transport dolly. The support includes a plurality of legs that can support a crane boom independently of the dolly. The transport assembly is used to transport the support and boom independently of other items that require movement such as a transformer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1997
    Assignee: Thiermann Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William E. Thiermann, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5662451
    Abstract: A hoist for lifting or hanging game animals. The hoist is particularly adapted for attachment to an ATV. The hoist includes a horizontal boom attached to a vertical support shaft. The vertical support shaft is telescoping to allow the height of the boom to be varied. The hoist is attached to the ATV by a base which allows the hoist to be supported in a vertical position for lifting game, and in a horizontal position for travelling. A bracing leg is also provided to prevent the ATV from tipping when heavy weights are being lifted using the hoist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1997
    Assignee: Pa-Paw's, LLC
    Inventors: Vincent Muzzi, Joe Muzzi, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5645179
    Abstract: A multiple implement equipment boom which allows a plurality of working implements of different configurations to be used with a single vehicle is disclosed. The multiple implement equipment boom has a boom body with at least one telescoping shaft with a hollow outer beam and an inner beam slidably fit within the outer beam, and a connecting link with a receiving box that slidably fits over one end of the inner beam and a locking mechanism to secure the receiving box to the inner beam. The working implements can be exchanged by hand without tools and without removing the boom from the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1997
    Inventor: Donald A. Mohar
  • Patent number: 5615785
    Abstract: An in-vehicle device for lifting objects into and out of the storage areas of the vehicle in which it is installed. The device is attached to the inside wall, floor, or ceiling area of the vehicle in which it is installed. It is fixedly attached to the vehicle by a mounting element which is connected to a swivel base element containing, in one embodiment, a winch with a cable running through a telescoping arm protruding from the base. The arm telescopes into and out of the base. The cable has a hook on its end to enable it to hook onto handles or ropes on objects to be stored in the vehicle and removed therefrom to a desired location. The winch is operated manually or by an electric motor or other mechanical means. The mounting element is attached to the vehicle by bolts, rivets, adhesives and the like. The base can be connected to the mounting element by a ball and socket joint to enable it to swivel in all directions, or it can be connected by a joint which enables it to swivel horizontally only.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 1, 1997
    Assignee: AGC Research and Development Corp.
    Inventor: Albert Kaner
  • Patent number: 5542812
    Abstract: A truck mounted crane assembly includes a turntable lock, a boom rest which interacts with the piston and cylinder device, and a swing away hoist mount. The turntable lock includes a pin which is manually retractable upon rotation of a handle from a position preventing relative rotation between a turntable and a pedestal to a position allowing such relative rotation and which can be secured in the first and second positions. The boom rest is mounted on the boom and rests on the cylinder of the piston and cylinder device when the boom is lowered to a predetermined position, thus taking much of the pressure off the piston. The boom rest is movable from a position in which it is capable of supporting the boom to a position in which it is incapable of supporting the boom and in which the boom is thus lowerable below the predetermined position. The provision of the turntable lock and boom rest obviates the need for a cradle rest for the boom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1996
    Assignee: JLG Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: John L. Grove, Gerald E. Lute
  • Patent number: 5540537
    Abstract: A hoist which mounts to a trailer hitch drawbar of a vehicle includes a post connected to a tongue. The post includes an angle which defines a boom extending from a central column. The tongue includes a pivot member connected to a securing member which includes holes to allow the hoist to be secured to the trailer hitch drawbar. A brace connected between the boom and central column supports the boom, while a brace connected between the central column and the securing member supports the central column. The boom includes an eye utilized to support a block and tackle or, alternatively, a pulley utilized to support the cable of a winch mounted to the central column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 30, 1996
    Inventor: Wilmer M. Welch
  • Patent number: 5520498
    Abstract: A lightweight, portable hoisting apparatus which is easily securable into a standard receiver hitch of a truck or other vehicle which can be used for hoisting heavy objects such as motor vehicle engines and the like, a vertically extendable main support member preferably formed of box tubing is included which is obliquely oriented with respect to the ground at 70-90 degrees. A mounting head is slidably engageable with respect to the lower portion of the main support member and includes a mounting housing defining a vertical channel therein for receiving the main support member and a mounting arm extending outwardly to engage the vehicle hitch. A boom arm is pivotally mounted to the upper end of the main support member and includes a load attachment means preferably at the outermost end thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Inventor: John DiBartolomeo
  • Patent number: 5511929
    Abstract: A portable winch system for use with truck bodies having a bed including raised opposed side walls. The system includes a winch comprising a drive motor, a transmission, a cable spool and a mounting bracket carried on a support bar for longitudinal movement. The support bar comprises first and second portions which are telescopically engaged to allow longitudinal adjustment thereof. The opposite ends of the support bar mount depending legs which are adapted to be removably engaged with the opposed side walls of the truck body to secure the winch system against rotational or longitudinal movement while allowing easy removal. With the support bar in position, the winch may be adjusted transversely of the truck bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Inventor: Steven R. Loftus
  • Patent number: 5478191
    Abstract: A vehicle tilting apparatus for rotating a vehicle for servicing or repair is disclosed. A support assembly is pivotally mounted on a base frame assembly. The support assembly includes a lifting assembly having a pair of spaced lift members. Support platforms for supporting the vehicle are pivotally mounted on one of the lift members. An over center locking assembly is mounted on the other lift member to releasably lock the support platform to the lift member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 26, 1995
    Assignee: Tilt-Tech Corp.
    Inventor: Dennis J. Rober
  • Patent number: 5460472
    Abstract: A cartop hoist and carrier apparatus has a crane rotatably mounted on a frame that is adapted to be secured to the top of an automotive vehicle. The crane has two spaced apart suspension points for two respective hoisting lines that are led to a winch for simultaneous hauling in or paying out. The two hoist lines provide stability to an elongated load against both tilting and twisting. When the frame is mounted on a vehicle roof, the crane can be swung outboard to raise an elongated load, such as a canoe, from alongside the vehicle. The crane can then be swung inboard and the load lowered to rest on the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Inventor: Ronald Bamber
  • Patent number: 5456371
    Abstract: The lifting bridge is used to install and remove motor vehicle parts and is provided with a support frame (1), which has support straps (7) with support feet (5, 6), by which the support frame can be supported at the edges of an engine space opening (43) of the car body, at both ends of a telescopically extendable support rail (8, 18). The support frame is provided with two lifting devices (10), which are guided individually displaceably on the support frame (8, 18) and each has a lifting member (12), which can be raised and lowered by a rotating actuation and can be stopped in its position by automatic interlocking. The support frame (1) consists of two telescopically extendable support rails (8, 8', 18, 18'), which extend in parallel to and at laterally spaced locations from one another, and on which the lifting devices (10) are guided by means of guide tubes (11) in a positive-locking manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 10, 1995
    Inventor: Horst Klann