Abstract: Disclosed is a knuckle boom crane, for offshore application, the knuckle boom crane including a crane house, a knuckle boom carried by the crane house, a component for operating the crane house and the knuckle boom, and a controller for piloting the operating component. The controller include a active compensation module that is designed to pilot the operating means, taking into account data coming from a motion reference unit, in such a way as to stabilize a downstream end of the jib, advantageously in a horizontal plane and/or a vertical position, still preferably in all directions.

Abstract: The invention relates to a telescopic boom comprising a coupling section, on the side of which at least two luffing-cylinder mounts are provided for fastening luffing cylinders to the telescopic boom. The bearing plates of the luffing-cylinder mount transition into a metal-plate box structure, the metal-plate box structure being composed of three partial luffing-cylinder boxes.

Abstract: A gait assist apparatus having assemblies for a chassis, shock absorption, swivel wheel (casters), pivot, crutch and spring tension. The crutch is fitted onto an upper shaft of a pivot housing to pivot relative to the chassis. A pair of topside tension springs extend from a shock absorption plate to the middle of the crutch. A pair of underside tension springs extends from the bottom end of the crutch to the underside of the chassis. Suspension springs space the shock absorption plate above the chassis. One of the underside tension springs possesses a tension/compression force greater than that of the other tension springs. One of the topside tension springs possesses a tension/compression force greater than that of the other topside tension springs.

Abstract: The present invention is a self-contained mobile inspection system and method and, more specifically, improved methods and systems for detecting materials concealed within a wide variety of receptacles and/or cargo containers. In particular, the present invention is an improved method and system with a novel boom structure that reduces the weight of the boom. The single, light-weight boom of the inspection system is relatively compact in a stowed configuration and has a low height and center of gravity lending to greater maneuverability.

Abstract: A modular trailer apparatus, which in some embodiments may include a bed coupled to a frame having a length and width. A first transportation conveyance for contacting a ground surface and a second transportation conveyance for contacting a ground surface may be coupled to opposing sides of the frame. The apparatus may further include a towing arm comprising a bed element movably coupled to a tow element. The bed element may be coupled to the frame and the tow element may be coupled to a trailer coupler configured to be secured to ball hitches or any other tow hitch. In further embodiments, the tow element may be movably coupled to the bed element between an extended position and a retracted position.

Abstract: An excavation system is disclosed as having a locating device configured to generate a position signal indicative of a position of an excavation machine, a sensor configured to generate a load signal indicative of a work tool status, and a controller. The controller may be configured to determine a location of a haul truck, to determine when the work tool is filled with at least a threshold amount of material from a pile at the worksite, and to determine the position of the excavation machine. The controller may further be configured, based on operating limitations of the excavation machine, to determine a pivot point between the location of the haul truck and the position of the excavation machine; to plan a travel path for the excavation machine to the haul truck through the pivot point; and to direct an operator of the excavation machine to follow the travel path.

Abstract: A handler holds a blowout preventer (BOP) assembly (partially or fully assembled) for transport and then erects it from a transport position to a vertical position for deployment. In the transport position the BOP assembly generally rests in a horizontal position. During deployment of the BOP assembly by the handler, the handler is capable of moving the BOP assembly to a vertical position, elevating it, and moving it outward, away from the base of the handler and toward a wellhead, so that the BOP assembly may be connected to a coiled tubing injector, work may be performed underneath the BOP assembly before connection to a well head, and the BOP assembly may be placed on top of a well head for connection to the well head.

Abstract: An improved knuckle boom crane apparatus provides a supportive base with an attached frame including a cabin with an interior. A prime mover is supported upon the frame. A main boom is pivotally attached to the frame at a first boom end portion, the main boom having a second end portion. A jib boom is provided having first and second end portions, the jib boom first end portion being pivotally attached to the main boom second end portion, the jib boom second end portion being free. A main block is attached to the main boom, depending from the main boom second end portion. An auxiliary block is attached to the jib boom, depending from the jib boom second end portion. A main block parking area is provided next to the connection of main boom and jib boom that enables the main block to be parked when using the auxiliary block.

Abstract: Hitch Hoist system provides an effective and efficient means through which users may lift heavy objects into the backs of trucks. This innovative product preferably features four main components, including two legs, a coupling tee, and a boom containing a winch. The components are preferably held together using ordinary hitch pins, and can therefore be easily assembled and disassembled whenever necessary. Consumers may use this product to lift extremely heavy objects when help is not available, or when conserving time and labor is necessary. The present invention is convenient for home use, military use, as well as use in junkyards, farms, or construction sites.

Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle crane, especially a mobile crane, automobile crane, or track-laying crane, comprising a superstructure which is embodied as a top slewing crane and encompasses a vertical tower and a boom located on the tower.

Abstract: A mobile lift crane includes a carbody having moveable ground engaging members; a rotating bed rotatably connected to the carbody such that the rotating bed can swing with respect to the ground engaging members; a boom pivotally mounted on a front portion of the rotating bed and a mast mounted at its first end on the rotating bed and having a second end; and at least one hydraulic cylinder pivotally connected at a first end to the rotating bed. The hydraulic cylinder is positioned and configured so as to be able to raise the second end of the mast from the mast being in a near horizontal position to a position where the mast is used during crane pick, move and set operations. In a preferred embodiment, at least one arm is pivotally connected at a first end to the rotating bed and at a second end to the hydraulic cylinder. The arm and cylinder are connected together such that extension and retraction of a piston within the hydraulic cylinder causes the second end of the arm to raise and lower.

Abstract: A portable crane and trailer system is disclosed. In a particular embodiment, the system includes a trailer, a crane post, and a crane. A first pair of outriggers is secured to a rear portion of the trailer and a second pair of outriggers is configured to be swung out rearward from the trailer to further increase the stability of the trailer, where the second pair of outriggers is deployed at approximately a 45 degree angle relative to the trailer. In addition, the system includes a removable A-frame removably connected between the rear portion of the trailer and the boom, where a first end of the A-frame is mounted to the rear portion of the trailer forming a base of the A-frame and a second end of the A-frame is connected at approximately the same location on the boom forming an apex of the A-frame.

Abstract: The invention relates to a harvester crane, which includes a set of booms, which are attached by means of a pedestal and rotating device to a chassis machine, in which the set of booms includes a main boom, which is pivoted at its lower end by a lower pivot to the pedestal; and an articulated boom, which is pivoted by an upper pivot to the opposite end of the main boom and which extends its path mainly forward from the main boom; operating devices, i.e. a lift device and a transfer device, operating the booms. The lower pivot of the main boom is located low down near to the rotating device and the pedestal is fork-shaped, the lower arm and the lift cylinder being located at least partly inside it.

Abstract: The invention relates to a harvester crane, which includes a set of booms, which are attached by means of a pedestal and rotating device to a chassis machine, in which the set of booms includes a main boom, which is pivoted at its lower end by a lower pivot to the pedestal; and an articulated boom, which is pivoted by an upper pivot to the opposite end of the main boom and which extends its path mainly forward from the main boom; operating devices, i.e. a lift device and a transfer device, operating the booms. The lower pivot of the main boom is located low down near to the rotating device and the pedestal is fork-shaped, the lower arm and the lift cylinder being located at least partly inside it.

Abstract: An improved boom-mounted jib unit (10) is provided having an increased range of motion and work envelope, which allows a user to lift heavier loads an otherwise work with less jib interference, as compared with prior jib units. The jib unit (10) includes a base (12) and a mounting component (28) permitting the unit (10) to be detachable secured to the upper end of a primary boom (22). The unit (10) also has a boom arm (14) made up of upper and lower arms (16, 18). The arm (14) is articulated by a dual piston and cylinder assembly (20) having first and second piston and cylinder assemblies (84, 86) coupled between the base (12) and arm (14).

Abstract: The present invention relates to a mobile crane boom having a self-sufficient energy supply arranged on it for supplying hydraulic energy to at least one hydraulic load arranged on the mobile crane boom. The supply of the hydraulic load arranged on the mobile crane boom is therefore not carried out by means of a hydraulic unit arranged on the revolving superstructure of the crane, which provides the hydraulic energy to each hydraulic load via hoses, but by means of a hydraulic unit which is arranged in the upper reaches of the mobile crane boom or in the area of the linkage of any second boom section. By arranging the hydraulic unit directly on the boom, the hoses normally required for supplying the hydraulic loads can be eliminated.

Abstract: The invention concerns a material transloading equipment unit with an undercarriage and a turntable connected with this undercarriage by means of a track ring, on which an arm that can be pivoted by means of at least one hoisting cylinder is pivot-mounted. According to the invention, on the one hand at least one additional pivot point for the arm is provided on the turntable and/or on the boom foot, and at least one additional pivot point is provided in the arm or in a pivot plate on the arm. This allows a number of possible combinations for the kinematics of the arm.

Abstract: A trailer-mounted crane apparatus includes a trailer supported from a ground surface on at least two wheels. A hydraulically operated crane arm is mounted to the trailer and is extendable outwardly. A crane hydraulic power unit is mounted to the trailer and supplies pressurized hydraulic fluid to the crane arm. A vibrational sheet piling driver can be supported by the crane arm. A vibrational hydraulic power unit for supplying power to the driver is mounted on the trailer. A control panel for the crane hydraulic power unit and the vibrational driver hydraulic power unit, and an associated operator's seat, are also mounted on the trailer. The crane apparatus includes wide tires for reducing the surface pressure under the apparatus. This allows the apparatus to be transported across and used on delicate surfaces such as golf course greens and other groomed surfaces.

Abstract: A vehicle is provided having a lift device comprising: a carrier; a swing arm with one end fixed to a shaft and another end coupled the carrier; and a drive for swinging the swing arm on top of the vehicle. The carrier is lowered from the top of the vehicle at an inclination with the point at which the carrier is attached to the swing arm raised. The swing arm comprises a first arm fixed to the shaft and a second arm mobile along the first arm that is coupled to the carrier. Telescoping means displace the second arm along the first arm when the swing arm swings, so that the carrier is retracted when the swing arm is upright. A support device supports the carrier, and support position displacement means cause it to project horizontally from the top of the vehicle when the carrier is lowered.

Abstract: A trailer-mounted crane apparatus includes a trailer supported from a ground surface on at least two wheels. A hydraulically operated crane arm is mounted to the trailer and is extendable outwardly. A crane hydraulic power unit is mounted to the trailer and supplies pressurized hydraulic fluid to the crane arm. A vibrational sheet piling driver can be supported by the crane arm. A vibrational hydraulic power unit for supplying power to the driver is mounted on the trailer. A control panel for the crane hydraulic power unit and the vibrational driver hydraulic power unit, and an associated operator's seat, are also mounted on the trailer. The crane apparatus includes wide tires for reducing the surface pressure under the apparatus. This allows the apparatus to be transported across and used on delicate surfaces such as golf course greens and other groomed surfaces.

Abstract: A loader includes a base equipped with a turning device, for attaching the loader to a carrier machine, a telescopic main boom including a frame pivoted on the base, and a telescopic component arranged to move linearly in relation to it and pivoted on the base, a hinged boom pivoted on the main boom, a lifting cylinder pivoted at its first end to the base and at its second end directly or indirectly to the main boom to operate it, an arm directly or indirectly attached to the hinged boom, pivoted to the main boom, a maneuvering cylinder disposed about the main boom between the frame and the telescopic component, the telescopic component is pivoted to the arm operating the hinged boom by the first pivot, the loader includes a link rod pivoted at one end to the frame of the main boom and at the other end to the second pivot of the said arm, which is at a distance from the said first pivot.

Abstract: A boom arrangement for moving a work head, which boom arrangement comprises a pillar mounted on a bearing around the vertical axis in a rotating manner, with mounting and rotational members; a lifting boom; a transfer boom; a lifting cylinder arranged between the pillar and the lifting boom; an intermediate lever mounted on the lifting boom; a tow bar, a transfer cylinder arranged between the lifting boom and the tow bar; an intermediate arm; and an arm. The lifting cylinder is mounted by the end on the side of the lifting boom on the intermediate lever, which is mounted on a bearing on the lifting boom in the zone between the end on the side of the lifting boom pillar and the middle of the lifting boom. The tow bar is mounted on one end of the intermediate lever. The arm is mounted on the tow bar by its one end and on the transfer boom by its other end.

Abstract: An inverted pedestal crane has a base mountable to an underside of a horizontal support structure, such as for example a rig floor. A crane pedestal extends downwardly from the base, and a boom connects pivotally to the pedestal. The pedestal and the crane base rotate about a vertical axis, while the boom moves pivotally in relation to the pedestal. The crane has one main and a pair of auxiliary hydraulic rams for moving the boom during load handling operations. A robust slew bearing assembly mounted above the crane pedestal allows rotation of the base and the pedestal. The slew bearing assembly has a pair of parallel plates, a plurality of centering rollers and a plurality of stabilizing rollers mounted adjacent to an outer circumference of the parallel plates, between the plates. A winch assembly is mounted on top of the base, the winch assembly carrying a cable that extends over a pulley secured to a free end of the boom.

Abstract: A boom mechanism that is cooperable with a lift vehicle or base structure includes a tower boom and an upper boom liftable in a dependent relationship by a single lifting mechanism. The tower boom and the upper boom are respectively pivotally secured to an upright having a fixed orientation by a tower link or the like. A timing link is secured between the tower boom and the upper boom, and a lifting mechanism is secured between the upright and the upper boom. As the upper boom is driven by the lifting mechanism, the timing link secured to the tower boom causes the tower boom to pivot about a tower boom nose pivot, thereby raising both the upper boom and the tower boom in a dependent relationship. The construction helps to minimize the need for tail and frame counterweight by controlling a position of the platform in configurations of both forward and rearward instability. As a consequence, the gross vehicle weight can be considerably reduced.

Abstract: Load-bearing apparatus, such as a boom lift, including first and second arm portions, in which at least one element, such as a hydraulic cylinder, is provided for selectively imparting a predetermined dependent relationship as well as a predetermined independent relationship between the first and second arm portions. The manufacture of such load-bearing apparatus can be customized by preselecting the dependent and independent relationships by altering given parameters.

Abstract: A crane vehicle comprising a telescopic main boom which can be hydraulically configured by means of an assembly comprising a plunger cylinder and to which a derrick mast can be secured is provided with a plunger cylinder configured as a supply and discharge line for hydraulic fluid so that it can be used for conveying hydraulic fluid into a telescopic derrick mast which is mounted on the telescopic boom. Furthermore, a derrick cylinder which can be secured to the main boom is provided for hydraulically adjusting the inclination of the telescopic derrick mast.

Abstract: Unit cranes consist of three jointed arms (13-15), the middle arm (14) being in the form of a polygon comprising a number of units jointed together, the mobility of the units being arranged by influencing the units internally. The object of the invention is to achieve improved traction curves and speed curves, and this is effected by influencing the movement of the units from the outside by means of a hydraulic mechanism.

Abstract: In connection with a pair of pivotally connected articulating booms there is a pair of double-acting hydraulic cylinders which control the vertical pulling of well pipe, such that a boom assembly in conjuction with an improved winch assembly willgenerate at least a 1500 pound perpendicular pulling force to a vertical height of at least 23.5 feet. This is done with a mini hoist, releasably mounted upon a hydraulically self-propelled 4.times.4 vehicle. The entire weight of the mini hoist is less than 1500 pounds and in the collapsed stage can fit within a box truck or on a pickup truck.

Abstract: A loader composed of: a turntable (2) for connecting said loader to a machine base; a mounting plate (2a) connected to the turntable; a main arm (3) having a first end connected to the turntable; a secondary arm (4) articulated to the main arm (3); a lift cylinder (5) and a maneuvering cylinder (6) for controlling the arms, each of the cylinders having first and second ends, with the first end of the lift cylinder (5) being connected to the mounting plate (2a) and the first end of the maneuvering cylinder (6) being connected to the main arm (3) at a location proximate to the first end of the main arm (3); and a common link plate (9) to which the second end of the lift cylinder (5) and the second end of the maneuvering cylinder are connected in order to control the loader, wherein: the main arm (3), the lift cylinder (5) and the maneuvering cylinder (6) are situated substantially in the same shear plane; and the main arm (3) is positioned between each of the lift cylinder (5) and the maneuvering cylinder (6) a

Abstract: A hoist for raising and lowering objects may be attached to a vehicle. The hoist includes a support column and a boom attached thereto; the boom can be raised and lowered by a hydraulic double action cylinder or otherwise. Both the support column and cylinder attach to a bracket, the bracket in turn being rotatably connected to a base unit so that the boom can be rotated as well as raised and lowered. The support column and boom can be adjusted with respect to one another and to the bracket, to balance loads and to adjust the reach of the hoist. Critical sections of the hoist, such as the portion of the boom that attaches to the support column, are reinforced with plates welded to the exterior of a rectangular tube. The connection between the support column and the bracket includes a nut to tension the column to the bracket. The base unit includes outriggers to support and stabilize the hoist, preferably three outriggers in a triangular configuration.

Abstract: An upper boom compensation system for an aerial device having an articulating boom assembly. The lower boom is raised and lowered by a special double cylinder having two pistons and a common piston rod. A hydraulic circuit is arranged to transfer fluid between the lower boom cylinder and the upper boom cylinder in a manner to raise and lower the upper boom correspondingly to raising and lowering of the lower boom. The upper boom can also be controlled independently of the lower boom.

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.

Abstract: A crane, particularly a track-bound mobile crane, having a luffing jib located on a vehicle frame so as to be slewable upward and downward around a horizontal axis and rotatable around a vertical axis. In order to transport long and heavy loads in narrow areas, especially during the construction of bridges or tracks, the luffing jib is supported on at least one swivel bearing located on a vehicle frame end and is slewable upward and downward or liftable by a lifting drive arranged between the ends of the vehicle frame.

Abstract: A system for and method of monitoring the operation of a boom are disclosed. A first parameter is sensed, the first parameter being indicative of a load on a first boom component. It is determined from the sensed first parameter when a load supported by the first boom component exceeds a predetermined value. Information, indicative of one or more occurrences of loads on the first boom component which exceed the predetermined value, is stored. Based upon the stored information, an output is provided which is indicative of whether a boom warranty is in effect.

Abstract: A system for monitoring the operation of a boom is disclosed. The boom has at least one boom section, with each boom section being supported by an actuator assembly such that a load supported by a particular actuator assembly is representative of operation of a corresponding boom section and of a total load experienced by that boom section. A first parameter is sensed, the first parameter being indicative of a load supported by a first actuator assembly. It is determined from the sensed first parameter when a total load supported by the first actuator assembly exceeds a predetermined value. Information, indicative of one or more occurrences of total loads exceeding the predetermined value, is stored. Based upon the stored information, an output is provided which is indicative of a cause of boom failure.

Abstract: A modular, readily assembled crane for mounting on a vehicle trailer hitch drawbar and reconfigurable for stand alone, rollabout operation. A receptacle rotatably supports a vertical column, boom arm, and lifting device, which may be a hydraulic jack or a winch. The receptacle has a lateral projection cooperating with the drawbar and two lateral projections to engage outriggers to steady the device and to support weight. The outriggers may be omitted. The same three projections, when reconfiguring the crane to rollabout operation, cooperate with a readily built up frame riding just above a floor, supported on casters. Rollabout frame length, boom arm angle, boom arm length, and outrigger height are adjustable. A non-lubricated PTFE washer serves as a rotating bearing. Optional parts include a receiving unit mountable to a vehicle in the absence of a trailer hitch, and a similar unit mountable to a wall surface.

Abstract: An aerial lift for use with a vehicle for positioning the nozzle on the outer end of an upper boom coupled at its inner end to the outer end of a lower boom with selectively raising and lowering the lower boom in a plane from and above the horizontal and rotating the lower boom about a vertical axis, and independently articulating the upper boom about its inner end with respect to the lower boom such that the upper boom is selectively movable above and below the horizontal plane.

Abstract: A posture adjusting mechanism according to the present invention is used for a cargo handling device for a cargo truck in which an arm member is mounted in such a manner that it can swivel about a vertical shaft provided on an upper end portion of a pole member, such as a pole, mounted on a bed of the cargo truck upright and above a cab of the truck and in which a cargo supporting member, such as a hook, hangs from the distal end of the arm member in such a manner that it can be raised or lowered freely. The vertical shaft provided on the upper end portion of the pole member so as to swivel the arm member thereabout is made pivotal relative to a vertical axis.

Abstract: An improved locomotive crane boom generally indicated at 10 has of a first member 11, second member 12, and third member 13 each pivotally connected at various pivot points to one another and to locomotive crane 14. A series of pistons and cylinders, 19, 20 and 21, powered by hydraulic pump 23 and fluid source 34, may be selectively extracted or retracted thereby permitting the improved boom to be positioned at any point along the length of a typical gondola car 17 to be unloaded. In operation, locomotive crane 14 with the included improved boom 10 does not need to be uncoupled from gondola car 17 for unloading since the improved boom may be articulated such that unloading magnet 24 or any other appended appliance may be positioned across the entire length of car 17 through the selected extraction and retraction of the pistons and cylinders and pivoting of the boom members 11, 12 and 13.

Abstract: A device is provided for tiltably connecting the boom section of a backhoe unit to the dipper section of the backhoe unit. The device includes a first member mountable to the dipper section so as to be rotatable about a first pivot axis transverse to the dipper section. The first member is connectable to the boom cylinder of the backhoe which pivots the first member about the first axis. A second member is provided which is attachable to the boom section of the backhoe. Respective coupling brackets extend from the first and second members to pivotably couple the first and second members and enable them to rotate about a second pivot axis generally orthogonal to the first pivot axis. Fluid cylinder mounting brackets extend from the first and second members adjacent the edges thereof to mount a pair of fluid cylinders in a diagonal crosswise configuration between the first and second members for tilting the first and second members relative to each other about the second axis.

Abstract: An apparatus for lifting a large tractor wheel includes a frame defined by feet and a post, which carries a bracket for rotation around the longitudinal axis of the post; a boom pivotally connected at one end to the bracket for rotation around a horizontal axis; a plate on the bracket for supporting a jack in engagement with the boom so that the latter can be raised and lowered; and a clamp suspended from the outer free end of the boom for raising and lowering a wheel, the clamp being defined by (i) a pair of scissor jaws with roller bearings on the bottom opposing ends thereof for engaging the opposite sides of a wheel rim or (ii) a fixed C-shaped jaw with roller bearings on the bottom and side thereof for engaging one side and rim of a wheel, and an inverted L-shaped jaw adjustably connected to the top arm of the fixed jaw for straddling the top of a tire, with a bearing on the bottom free end thereof for engaging the other side of the tire and holding the wheel in the C-shaped jaw.

Abstract: An apparatus for handling and positioning building components of the type which are used in retaining walls or the like includes a vehicular support having an articulatable boom extending therefrom, and a gripper assembly at the end of the boom. The vehicle and boom are operatable through a remote control assembly by a worker who may be standing near the structure which is being constructed. Several species of gripping assemblies are included for attachment to the boom.

Abstract: An apparatus for supressing vibration and quaky movements of a pivotally mounted boom on a mobile crane. The boom is supported for pivotal movement by a hydraulic cylinder which is subjected to abrupt forces when the crane is in motion. A hydraulic circuit is constructed to prevent such forces from damaging the hydraulic cylinder and vehicle body of the crane. The circuit is selectively operative to place the hydraulic cylinder in either a working or travel made. The circuit includes an accumulator and three change-over valves to control the flow of fluid in the hydraulic cylinder during the work and travel modes of operation.

Abstract: A hoist is provided for facilitating the loading and unloading of a vehicle. The hoist comprises a mounting for mounting to an underlying structure, an upright post connected to the mounting, a column rotatably seated on the post and having a boom pivotally connected thereto, a drive connected between the boom and column to raise and lower a free end of the boom, a sheave carried at the free end of the boom, a hoist cable looped over the sheave, an eye affixed to the column near its lower end, a chain threaded through the eye and secured at one end to the hoist cable, and an anchor located upwardly above the eye for the releasably securing the other end of the chain to the column.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for a recovery vehicle of the type comprising rear, lowerable supporting stifflegs (5) and a crane boom (1) which turns about a horizontal axis (11) and has a boom foot (2) and a folding boom (3) with an extension (4) thereon. According to the invention the crane boom is placed on a turntable or the like on the vehicle. The turntable and consequentially the crane boom can be turned about a vertical axis of rotation. In order that the boom foot, which during transport preferably is arranged between a pair of lowerable rear stifflegs, should be unobstructed by these stifflegs or other obstacles, the crane boom is longitudinally displaceable relative to the turntable, according to a preferred embodiment.

Abstract: A lightweight, self-powered, transportable crane assembly is disclosed which includes a frame that can be selectively coupled to and uncoupled from the bed of a transport vehicle or carrier, such as a pick-up truck or trailer. The frame assembly also includes stabilizing legs which can be extended laterally from the frame assembly to stabilize the crane during use and further to allow the crane assembly to be self supporting apart from the truck or trailer. The crane assembly also can be coupled to a ballast structure such as a water tank or the like, to permit its use apart from the transport vehicle.

Abstract: An articulated arm-type excavator machine has a boom which has a trolley track affixed onto its underside. A trolley member from which a pulley block can be suspended travels along this track, and is urged into an operator-selected position by a double-acting hydraulic cylinder. A power winch is mounted on the overcarriage of the machine and a lifting cable runs from the winch, over the pulley block, to a lifting hook or other device.

Abstract: A rough terrain vehicle comprises a vehicle chassis, wheel assemblies enabling vertical and angular deflection of the chassis relative to the terrain during vehicle movement, a telescopic crane boom pivotally mounted on the chassis and capable of limited reciprocable angular deflection relative to the chassis as the vehicle moves a hydraulic boom hoist cylinder to raise and lower the boom when the vehicle is stationary, and a deflection reduction system connected between the chassis and the boom to reduce or eliminate bouncing and porpoising of the chassis relative to the terrain as the vehicle moves. The deflection reduction system includes a resilient spring and a damping system in the form of a piston/cylinder for compressed gas to reduce the speed of spring motion as rapidly as possible.

Abstract: A mobile crane comprises a vehicle chassis mounted on balloon tires, a crane boom pivotally mounted on the chassis, and a double-acting boom hoist cylinder connected between the chassis and the boom for raising and lowering the boom. As the mobile crane traverses rough terrain or accelerates or decelerates, its mass causes the chassis to deflect (bounce or porpoise) relative to the terrain. A deflection reduction system, which presupposes that the boom is unrestrained and free to pivot (deflect) relative to the chassis, comprises a deflection reduction module mechanically mounted on the outside of the boom hoist cylinder and selectively operable valves for hydraulically connecting the module thereto.

Abstract: This invention relates to an articulated boom structure (10) which comprises a pedestal (11) mounted for rotation on a main frame (12) mounted in turn on a vehicle (13), with a first boom (14) articulately mounted on the pedestal (11) and adapted to be raised and lowered relative to the pedestal (11), a platform (16) mounted on the outer end of the first boom (14) and adapted to be held in a horizontal plane at all times, a sweep arm (17) connected to the platform (16) above a ring gear (18) rotatably mounted on the platform (16), the sweep arm (17) movable in a horizontal plane at all times, a second boom (19) articulately connected to the outer end of the sweep arm (17) and adapted to be raised and lowered relative thereto, a third boom (21) articulately connected to the outer end of the second boom (19) and adapted to be raised and lowered relative thereto, and a personnel carrier mounted on the third boom (21), which carrier may be either a bucket (22) or a work platform (23); and with a bucket (22) movab