Single Throw Lever Patents (Class 254/120)
  • Patent number: 11801176
    Abstract: A patient assisting system includes a frame having a sling assembly attachment point and a lifting arm which is movable relative to the frame and which includes a receptacle. When the sling assembly is attached to the attachment point and extends through the receptacle, a portion of the sling travels through the receptacle as the lifting arm moves relative to the frame. Another embodiment includes exactly one four bar linkage comprised of a frame having an attachment point for a sling assembly, a lifting arm having a receptacle, a lower cross arm and an upper cross arm. The lifting arm is adapted to be movable between a person-seated position and a person-standing position. The receptacle is located along the lifting arm so that motion of the lifting arm causes the receptacle to move along a curved path having a concave side which is person-facing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2023
    Assignee: Liko Research & Development AB
    Inventors: Anders Joakim Eriksson, Elin K. Dovervik, Gun Blom, Jack Barney Sing, Lars Eklof, Roger Karlsson, Ronnie Arespong
  • Patent number: 11767202
    Abstract: A transportable lifting device (10) comprising: an upright (12); an arm (13) connectable to the upper end of said upright (12); a diagonal (14) for connecting said arm (13) and said upright (12); characterized in that said arm (13) is fixed to said upright (12) by means of a first joint (30, 35); said diagonal (14) is fixed to said upright (12) by means of a second joint (32, 41); said diagonal (14) is fixed to said arm (13) by means of a third joint (36, 40); said first joint (30, 35), said second joint (32, 41) and said third joint (36, 40) are of the type with double tenon and mortise; said first joint (30, 35) comprises: two hooks (35) placed at the end of the arm (13); two vertical slots (30) placed on the upright (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2023
    Assignee: FIN GROUP S.R.L.
    Inventors: Giuseppe Lupi, Stefano Duci, Andrea Mazzoleni
  • Patent number: 10610431
    Abstract: A movement system for use with an overhead patient lift system includes a motor. A drum is operatively coupled to the motor. The drum is configured to be selectively driven by the motor to rotate in one of a clockwise direction and a counter-clockwise direction. A lifting strap is coupled to the drum. The lifting strap is extendable and retractable with respect to a carriage of the overhead patient lifting system as the drum rotates. A manual release operatively coupled to the drum is actuatable to selectively disengage the drum from the motor to allow the lifting strap to be manually extended. Also disclosed is an overhead patient lift system including the movement system and a method for manually extending a lifting strap of an overhead patient lift system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2020
    Assignee: LIKO RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT AB
    Inventors: Mattias Andersson, Roger Karlsson, Andreas Gelfgren
  • Patent number: 10011434
    Abstract: An inventory management system includes a first robotic device and a second robotic device. The first robotic device includes a first conveyor removably docked with a first head of the first robotic device. The second robotic device includes a second conveyor removably docked with a second head of the second robotic device. The first robotic device includes a first conveyor controller that communicates conveyor control signals to a second conveyor controller of the second robotic device. The conveyor control signals specify operations to activate the second motor of the second conveyor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2018
    Assignee: Amazon Technoloigies, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Anthony Messina
  • Patent number: 9770953
    Abstract: This invention relates to a tire lifting and removing tool of that facilitates shifting of tires on/off the trucks or the like, holding the tire at a place. The tool may be used for removing the spacer rings between the tires, as a pry bar. The tool allows an upper tire bead to be lifted beyond its wheel rim flange in one lever-like operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2017
    Inventor: Philip Turple
  • Patent number: 9527699
    Abstract: A control system for a lifting device and a lifting device comprising the same are disclosed. The control system includes a control unit comprising a processor with a memory communicatively coupled to the processor and having computer readable and executable instructions. A battery is electrically coupled to the control unit in addition to at least one indicator. The processor executes the computer readable and executable instructions to: determine an operating characteristic of the lifting device and an operating time of the lifting device as the lifting device is actuated; determine an accumulated load-time parameter for the lifting device based on the operating characteristic and the operating time; store the accumulated load-time parameter in the memory of the lift control system; compare the accumulated load-time parameter to a service constant; and provide an indication the indicator that a lift structural component requires service based on the comparison.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2016
    Assignee: LIKO RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT AB
    Inventor: Gunnar Liljedahl
  • Publication number: 20150048287
    Abstract: A panel lifter comprises: a first arm comprising a panel engaging element; a second arm comprising a foot pedal; and a fulcrum for engaging the ground connected between the panel engaging element and the foot pedal; wherein the panel engaging member is moveable with respect to the foot pedal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2013
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Inventor: Aliaksei Chernyshou
  • Publication number: 20150041738
    Abstract: A tire handling tool used to assist a worker in positioning a tire from the horizontal or lying position to a vertical position. The tire handling tool generally including a first member connected to a second member, the second member defines a spacing, and further includes at least one stop. The second member includes a first end attached to the first member and a second end having a first bracket with wheels. The first member defines a second end that includes a second bracket having a roller member. A tubular member is attached to the first member and passes through the spacing of the second member. Urging the tool in a forward direction causes the tubular member to travel along the spacing towards the first bracket for receiving a tire that is in the lying position, and then urging the first member in a backward direction lifts the tire to a vertical position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2013
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Inventor: Tom Raben
  • Publication number: 20140284530
    Abstract: The present invention is a shoe attachment and a method of use thereof. The shoe attachment allows a hand truck user to retrieve the hand truck more easily and efficiently after unloading boxes. The device comprises a metal plate with a hook and a pair of slots. The metal plate is to be positioned upon and strapped to the boot with the support of a belt with a buckle. In strapping the metal plate to the boot, the belt traverses through both of the slots on the plate and attaches to itself via the buckle. During use, the hook of the metal plate forms a secure connection between the top of the foot and the bottom rung of the hand truck. Upon engagement, the user may then retrieve the hand truck with a strong pull. The present invention is applicable to any wheeler with a bottom rung.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2013
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Inventor: Richard Lewis Edwin KUNIEGEL
  • Publication number: 20140261101
    Abstract: A portable and foldable lift can be attached to a surface such as a tailgate of a truck. The lift can be slid off the gate and used to lift heavy objects from the ground to the bed of the truck. The portable and foldable lift is returned in a folded position to the tailgate for easy storage. The portable and foldable lift can also be attached to a work bench, either on top or underneath, and can be folded up and stored out of the way.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Brent Hurd
  • Publication number: 20140252287
    Abstract: A lever system for actuating a plunger pin on a trailer jack includes a lever, an attachment member for attaching the lever to the plunger pin and an engagement member which limits the movement of the lower end of the lever toward the trailer jack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2014
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Inventor: Otis Young
  • Publication number: 20140231374
    Abstract: A pin puller is mounted between first and second connectors, preferably connectors on a lift crane, each of the connectors having a hole there though. The pin puller includes: a) first and second support frame members; b) a first pin with a first end located in the hole of the first connector and a second end inside the first support frame member; c) a second pin with a first end located in the hole of the second connector and a second end inside the second support frame member; d) at least one linear actuator connected to the first and second pins; and e) a length adjustment device between the first and second support frame members, with its length adjusted so as to force the first support frame member into contact with the first connector and the second support frame member into contact with the second connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Inventors: Bronson E. Foust, Kenneth J. Porubcansky
  • Publication number: 20140137328
    Abstract: A lifting apparatus includes an upper frame, a base frame, a link mechanism for connecting the upper frame and the base frame, and a linear actuator connected to the link mechanism for driving the link mechanism. The link mechanism includes at least a T-shaped first arm slidably supported on the base frame or the upper frame and provided with connections at four points, and an L-shaped second arm provided with connections at three points.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2013
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Applicant: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Akihiro OHTA, Shohei TSUKADA, Yohei KUME, Tomohiro SHIMODA, Hideo KAWAKAMI
  • Patent number: 8690134
    Abstract: An equipment support rack assembly for holding equipment during the maintenance thereof includes a base with a top wall, a bottom wall and a perimeter wall. The perimeter has an aperture to access an interior of the base. A rod is attached to the base and receives a spool of cutting line. A plurality of legs each has a top end and a bottom end. Each of the legs extends upwardly from the upper surface. A platform has a top side and a bottom side. The bottom side is attached to the top ends of each of the legs. The top side has an opening extending through the top and bottom sides. The opening is configured to receive a weed trimmer or to allow access to a bottom side of a lawn mower positioned on the top side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Inventor: Ben J. Saam
  • Publication number: 20130334481
    Abstract: A lifting apparatus is provided having an elongated support member and an elongated lift member pivotably coupled together to move between a retracted configuration in which a distal end of the lift member is near a base end of the support member and an expanded configuration in which the distal end of the lift member is remote from the base end of the support member to support a load in an elevated position. A biasing device is coupled between the support member and the lift member to selectively move the lifting apparatus between the retracted configuration and the expanded configuration, a first end of the biasing device pivotably coupled to the base end of the support member and a second end of the biasing device pivotably coupled to the lift member. A base may be pivotably coupled to the support member to engage the ground surface during lifting operations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Inventor: Richard W. Bogert
  • Patent number: 8602388
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a manual force reduction device for reducing a force required to initiate movement of a load by a separate mechanism. The device can have an energy storage mechanism that has a compressed position and a released position, and the energy storage mechanism can be operable to store a predetermined amount of energy when it is in the compressed position. A latch can be included and be used to hold the energy storage mechanism in the compressed position. At a desired time, a latch release can release the energy storage mechanism from the compressed position such that the predetermined amount of energy is released and transferred to the load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Gustavo Esquivel Garcia
  • Publication number: 20130292616
    Abstract: A tool assists a user to open a frozen car door without causing damage to the car door or door frame. The tool can be carried on a key ring so as to be readily available to the user. The tool can be made in a hook shape with smooth edges and with a resin or plastic material that will not damage the vehicle like a conventional metal screwdriver may cause.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2012
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Inventors: Kevin Paul Kitzman, Casey Paul Kitzman
  • Publication number: 20130256616
    Abstract: The tool for handling a cover, in particular covers for sewers or vents, or for manholes, relates to the covers of sewers or vents or manholes, having a substantially planar top surface. The tool includes a holder defining a surface for engaging with the top surface of a cover, a lifting fulcrum, and a handle. The handle has one end spaced apart from the lifting fulcrum. The holder, fulcrum and handle are arranged such that a force exerted by an operator on the one end is transmitted as a force on the holder by the lifting fulcrum. The holder includes a leg connected to the handle and is rigidly configured such that, in the position for lifting a cover, the assembly formed of the cover- and the holder with the leg is rigid. The invention further relates to a method for removing or re-placing such a cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: EUROSIGN
    Inventor: Thomas Garcia
  • Patent number: 8540214
    Abstract: The present invention is a vehicle lift. In particular, the present invention is directed to a vehicle lift that can be mounted to the rear of a vehicle or used as a stand-alone lift. A preferred embodiment of the lift comprises a vehicle platform mounted to two platform saddles supported by two lifting arms and two support arms. The lifting arms and support arms are pivotally attached to a mount frame at one end and the platform saddles on the other end. A spacer sleeve is attached between the lifting arms and has a lock bar inserted through it. Lift locks are attached to each end of the lock bar and can lock the lift. Two drives are attached to the mount frame at one end and to the spacer sleeve at the other end. When the platform is in a raised position, the drives are extended.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Inventor: Brad Christian
  • Publication number: 20130214219
    Abstract: The invention relates to a positioning device for positioning an ejection device for ejecting a movably mounted part of a piece of furniture from a closed end position in relation to a body of a piece of furniture. The ejection device can be fixed in relation to the body of the piece of furniture by means of an adapter plate, said adapter plate comprising at least two guides, one of said guides being respectively connectable to a bearing part fixed to the body. The at least two guides can be used to position the ejection device in at least two different depth positions on or in the body of the piece of furniture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2013
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: JULIUS BLUM GMBH
    Inventor: JULIUS BLUM GMBH
  • Publication number: 20130200315
    Abstract: A hand tool (10), including: a handle (14) at a handle end (16) of an elongated main body (12); an arcuate shaped contact surface (20) on a base end (22) of the elongated main body opposite the handle end; a support strut (35) extending laterally from the elongated main body; and a connection structure (26) disposed at a distal end of the support strut, between the handle end and the arcuate shaped contact surface. The handle is positioned on a concave side (18) of the arcuate shaped contact surface along a line (50) perpendicular to a tangent (52) of the arcuate shaped contact surface, and the perpendicular line traverses a middle 80% of the arcuate shaped contact surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2012
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Inventor: Jimmie A. Chestnut,, JR.
  • Publication number: 20130192040
    Abstract: A tool for manipulating an article includes an operative portion. The operative portion includes a convex surface defined by a first curved segment extending substantially from a first end having a radius greater than at least one further subsequent curved segment, and a concave surface opposite the convex surface. In use, one of the convex and concave surfaces is engageable with an article and the other of the convex and concave surfaces is engageable with a work-piece such that the convex and concave surfaces are cooperable to establish a fulcrum point between the work-piece and the other surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventor: Richard Townsend
  • Patent number: 8480058
    Abstract: Sheet material lifts including an elongate body extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end, a foot extending transverse the longitudinal axis from the second end of the elongate body, a support element disposed on the foot distal the elongate body, a base defining a fulcrum coupled to the foot, and an arm extending transverse the longitudinal axis from the elongate body at a position intermediate the first end and the second end. In some examples, the arm includes a sleeve, and a shaft slidingly mounted within the sleeve, the shaft being configured to slide along a path between a retracted position proximate the elongate body and an extended position distal the elongate body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Inventor: William Matthews
  • Patent number: 8474159
    Abstract: A land-clearing implement configured to be attached to a small earth-moving machine, such as a skid loader. The land-clearing device has a pusher assembly with telescopically extendable actuator arms that are operated by a hydraulic auxiliary source accessible from the interior of the earthmoving machine. When the actuator arms are extended, the forward end of the pusher assembly applies a pushing force on the trunk of a tree, pushing the tree until uprooted. The pusher assembly is supported by a mounting bracket that rests on the ground and provides stability to the pusher assembly. A pair of opposing grabber arms with C-shaped hooks is secured to the pusher assembly by pivoting securing rods. The grabber arms partially encircle and the C-shaped hooks dig into the root ball of the tree to provide stability as the pusher assembly is engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventor: Vincent A. Molino
  • Patent number: 8474794
    Abstract: A control system for a lifting device and a lifting device comprising the same are disclosed. The control system includes a control unit comprising a processor with a memory communicatively coupled to the processor and having computer readable and executable instructions. A battery is electrically coupled to the control unit in addition to at least one indicator. The processor executes the computer readable and executable instructions to: determine an operating characteristic of the lifting device and an operating time of the lifting device as the lifting device is actuated; determine an accumulated load-time parameter for the lifting device based on the operating characteristic and the operating time; store the accumulated load-time parameter in the memory of the lift control system; compare the accumulated load-time parameter to a service constant; and provide an indication the indicator that a lift structural component requires service based on the comparison.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Liko Research & Development AB
    Inventor: Gunnar Liljedahl
  • Publication number: 20130161579
    Abstract: A method and a tool for remotely pivoting an element mounted in a structure is provided. The method includes exerting a lever effect on the element by way of a control bearing on the structure coupled to a connection engaged with the element to cause it to pivot in a pivoting plane. The method also includes applying an angular offset to this connection in a plane different from the pivoting plane, in which the lever effect is produced, in order to render the control remotely operable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2011
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicants: Airbus S.A.S., AIRBUS OPERATIONS S.A.S.
    Inventors: Cédric Rodrigues-Morgado, Jean-Marc Heral
  • Patent number: 8453993
    Abstract: A post removal device (10), including a support (11), and a lever (12) which is rotatable about a fulcrum (13). The lever (12) extends on either side of the fulcrum (13) to define a first portion (14) and a second portion (15), whereby downward movement of the first portion (14) results in upward movement of the second portion (15). The second portion (15) is connected to a gripping arrangement (19) which includes a pair of post grippers (23), which are movable during rotation of the lever (12), from an open condition to a gripping condition. The extent of rotational movement of the lever (12) is sufficient for the grippers (23) to move from the open condition to the gripping condition and for the gripping arrangement (19) to be lifted with the grippers (23) in the gripping condition for lifting a post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Inventor: Graeme Davis
  • Patent number: 8448921
    Abstract: A novel hydraulic jack kit is disclosed comprising a specialized jack configured to be compatible with selectively interchangeable components. The specialized jack on its own is configured to lift vehicles such as motorbikes and snowmobiles completely off the floor, so that the only support is the jack itself. The specialized jack is also configured to receive a platform component that converts the jack into one suitable for lifting automobiles with a large wheel base that will have two wheels remaining on the floor when lifted. It is further configured to receive a platform component that converts the jack into one suitable for lifting a vehicle with a short wheel base, where the elevated vehicle adopts a large angle of elevation. In all configurations, a novel stabilizing structure is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Alltrade Tools LLC
    Inventor: Hector R. Hernandez
  • Patent number: 8413959
    Abstract: A probe bar remover (10) for loosening and removing probe bars from the ground includes an elongated member (12) with an engagement end and a handling end. The elongated member (12) also includes a foot plate (18) along the elongated member (12) oriented toward the handling end. A bar engagement member (20) is coupled to the elongated member (12) at the engagement end and can include an engagement gap (22) for engaging a probe bar (15). A fulcrum (24) can be oriented along the elongated member (12), which contacts a ground surface, and a handlebar (26) is removably coupled to the handling end of the elongated member. To remove probe bars from a ground surface, the probe bar remover (10) can be engaged with an exposed portion of a probe bar (15) and a downward force is exerted on the foot plate (18) so as to at least loosen the probe bar (15) from the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: University of Utah Research Foundation
    Inventors: Donald S. Bloswick, Duane A. Ferkovich, Richard F. Sesek, Bruce Campbell
  • Patent number: 8413963
    Abstract: A dirtbike maintenance apparatus (DMA) (10) having a dirtbike ramp (12); a dirtbike support assembly (42) with a lower horizontal member (44), a right vertical telescoping member (54), a left vertical telescoping member (78), an frame engagement plate (98); and an assembly attachment member (128); a front tire engagement assembly (134) with a hingedly attached tire plate (138); a right telescoping member (164) and a left telescoping member (194). The DMA (10) is placed on a level surface and a dirtbike (240) is directed onto and along the ramp (12). Once the dirtbike's front tire (242) contacts the tire plate (138), the engagement assembly (134) pivots forward, thereby pulling forward the right and left telescoping members (164,194). At the opposite end the telescoping members (164,194) are attached to the dirtbike support assembly (42).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Inventor: Deolvin N. Pacheco, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8393597
    Abstract: A control system for a lifting device and a lifting device comprising the same are disclosed. The control system includes a control unit comprising a processor with a memory communicatively coupled to the processor and having computer readable and executable instructions. A battery is electrically coupled to the control unit in addition to at least one indicator. The processor executes the computer readable and executable instructions to: determine an operating characteristic of the lifting device and an operating time of the lifting device as the lifting device is actuated; determine an accumulated load-time parameter for the lifting device based on the operating characteristic and the operating time; store the accumulated load-time parameter in the memory of the lift control system; compare the accumulated load-time parameter to a service constant; and provide an indication the indicator that a lift structural component requires service based on the comparison.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Liko Research & Development AB
    Inventor: Gunnar Liljedahl
  • Publication number: 20130047569
    Abstract: A lifting device lifts and lowers the working unit with respect to an axis of wheels as a center and can move the wheels of the working unit aloft. The lifting device applies to a lawn mowing vehicle comprising a lawn mowing unit and a main body. The lawn mowing unit includes drum wheels that are rotatable about an axis Ax1 extending in a vehicle width direction. The main body is connected to the lawn mowing unit so as to be rotatable about the axis Ax1 and immovable in the axis Ax direction, and can travel with the lawn mowing unit. The lifting device includes a first support member at the lawn mowing unit, a second support member at the main body, and a linear actuator that includes a retractable rod having a front end portion and a main body part having a rear end portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: MAMIYA-OP Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Koji Takahashi, Tomoji Utsugi, Yasumasa Fujita
  • Patent number: 8366074
    Abstract: An illuminative jack is described; the jack contains a pair of side walls spaced apart from one another. Each side wall has a front portion, an intermediate region, and an end portion. The jack includes a lift arm which has a first end which is pivotally connected to the intermediate regions of the side walls and a second end close to the front portions. A lifting plate is connected to the second end of the lift arm, the plate is designed to engage a lifting location of an object to be lifted. Finally, the jack includes several lights recessed within the plate and a shield material for the lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Inventor: Lai-Shun Lin
  • Patent number: 8347475
    Abstract: A handle structure suitable for disposing on a surface of a carrier is provided. The carrier has a locating part is assemble to a case. The handle structure includes a holder, an elastic element and a fastening element. The holder has a rotating axis and a locating element, and has a first end and a second end opposite thereto. The rotating axis connecting to the carrier is disposed on the first end, and the holder is pivoted on the surface. The locating element disposed on the first end interferes with the locating part. The elastic element has a first fixing part fixed to the carrier and a pushing part connected to the first fixing part and pushing against the holder. The fastening element has a second fixing part fixed to the carrier and a fastening part connected to the second fixing part and fastened to the second end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Inventec Corporation
    Inventors: Shi-Feng Wang, Ji-Peng Xu, Tsai-Kuei Cheng
  • Publication number: 20130001487
    Abstract: Electrically-insulated utility devices and methods for using the same are described. In particular, this application discusses systems and methods for making and using electrically insulated pinch bars. Generally, each insulated pinch bar includes a pinch bar, which has a longitudinal body, a distal tip and a proximal head, and an electrically insulative material disposed circumferentially about a portion of the longitudinal body of the pinch bar. In some embodiments, the electrically insulative material also abuts the proximal head of the pinch bar. The insulated pinch bar can therefore provide safety for the pinch bar user or operator when the pinch bar is used in a variety of utility or construction applications and comes in contact with an electrical current. The insulated pinch bar can be part of a system which further includes a cover adapted to protect the electrically insulative material when the insulated pinch bar is not in use. Other embodiments are described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventors: Joseph Fiorini, Anthony Liguori
  • Patent number: 8322688
    Abstract: Referring to the figures, a landing jack lift 100 is shown having an upright lever portion 105 which is pivotally connected to a base plate 130. Base plate 130 allows landing jack lift 100 to be used in soft soil conditions and provides a stable support in use. A lifting arm 120 is pivotally connected to upright lever portion 105 using a pivot 150. Pivot 150 is a bolt, but other pivoting means may be used such as pins, rivets, etc. as is known in the art. A lifting plate 125 is provided to fit under a landing jack 165 attached to a trailer 160 to allow a user to move landing jack 165 without having to bend over or lie on the ground. Lifting plate 125 is pivotally mounted so the as the angle changes with respect to lifting arm 120, lifting plate 125 maintains level contact with landing jack 165. Additionally, lifting plate 125 telescopically fits within lifting arm 120 in order to allow a user to adjust the length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Inventor: William Hebert
  • Publication number: 20120300415
    Abstract: A releasing apparatus for a subscriber identity module (SIM) card includes a bracket, a rack received in the bracket for manipulating the SIM card, a pivot pole pivotably received in the bracket, and a movable member pivotably attached to the bracket. The movable member includes a biasing portion and an engaging portion formed from opposite ends of the movable member. A tab and a biasing protrusion are formed from opposite ends of the pivoting member. The engaging portion is operated to rotate the movable member. The biasing portion presses the tab of the pivot pole to rotate the pivot pole. The biasing protrusion biases the rack and SIM card away from the bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD.
    Inventor: XIN YANG
  • Publication number: 20120280191
    Abstract: A lift assist device for assisting a user in lifting an item includes a base having a center portion and a side portion that is angled relative to said center portion, a support shaft extending upward from the center portion of the base, and a support platform rotatably attached at an upper end of the support shaft and rotatable about an axis that is generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the support shaft. The lift assist device is tiltable between a loading position, where the side portion of the base rests on a floor or support surface and the support shaft is in a tilted orientation, and a lifting position, where the center portion of the base rests on the floor or support surface and the support shaft is in a generally vertical orientation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2012
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventor: Robert J. Siebelink
  • Publication number: 20120228838
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods allow the wheels of a camera dolly to be quickly and easily changed by a single person. A dolly jack may have a leg attached to a foot and pivotable relative to the foot about a first axis. A jack rod is attached to the leg spaced apart from the first axis. An arm may be pivotally attached to the leg as desired, to provide greater mechanical advantage in lifting the camera dolly. Dolly wheels may be changed by inserting a jack rod into a receptacle on one side of the camera dolly, with the foot of the jack on the ground and with the jack leg substantially in a non-vertical position. The jack leg rotated into a second position wherein the jack leg is substantially vertical, with the dolly rolling slightly in the direction of the rotation. This lifts the side of the dolly sufficiently so that the front and back wheels, or wheel pairs, on the one side of the dolly are lifted off of the ground, allowing the wheels to be changed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Inventor: Leonard T. Chapman
  • Publication number: 20120223278
    Abstract: A window opener that assists a user in raising the sash of a single hung or double hung window includes a base, a plurality of fulcrum pivot bars mounted on the base, each fulcrum pivot bar having a different height, and a lever arm. The lever arm is placed on an exposed end of one of the fulcrum pivot bars, and has a first axial end which is used for engaging the sash of the window, and an opposite second axial end which is grasped by the user. The user pushes down on the second axial end of the lever arm, and by a pivoting action on the fulcrum pivot bar, the second axial end which engages the sash raises the sash of the single hung or double hung window through mechanical advantage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2012
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Inventor: Arnold Kagan
  • Patent number: 8220780
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an assembly having in combination an apparatus and a smooth and rigid plane on which the apparatus moves. The assembly allows, when activated by the foot of the user acting as a drive and directive force, the door to be raised and movements from bottom to top, front to back, right to left and vice versa to be executed, while the hands of the user no longer carry the load and are free to intervene.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Inventors: Jean-Noel Guillore, Paul Janin
  • Publication number: 20120056142
    Abstract: The present invention is a vehicle lift. In particular, the present invention is directed to a vehicle lift that can be mounted to the rear of a vehicle or used as a stand-alone lift. A preferred embodiment of the lift comprises a vehicle platform mounted to two platform saddles supported by two lifting arms and two support arms. The lifting arms and support arms are pivotally attached to a mount frame at one end and the platform saddles on the other end. A spacer sleeve is attached between the lifting arms and has a lock bar inserted through it. Lift locks are attached to each end of the lock bar and can lock the lift. Two drives are attached to the mount frame at one end and to the spacer sleeve at the other end. When the platform is in a raised position, the drives are extended.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2010
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Inventor: Brad Christian
  • Patent number: 8128066
    Abstract: A door and board lifting device comprising a foot operated lever and locking means wherein said locking means is operative to releasably secure the lever in a substantially fixed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Inventor: Ian Durrant
  • Patent number: 8127387
    Abstract: A manually held firefighting tool has an elongated staff section having a first working member at one end and a second working member at the other end. The first working member has a claw element and a spike element, each extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the staff section and protruding from the staff section in opposite directions. The second working member extends from the second end of the staff section and has a U-shaped yoke element supporting an arcuate cross bar element positioned parallel to the longitudinal axis of the staff section. The second working member has its own claw element at one end and a spike element at the other end. A flat bar element is affixed perpendicularly to the cross bar element between its two ends. The firefighting tool is configured to be used in a variety of firefighting applications, allowing the firefighter to carry a single tool rather than a multitude of tools performing different functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Inventor: Daniel P. Tygh
  • Patent number: 8118279
    Abstract: An illuminative jack is provided, having a plurality of lights recessed within a top plate to provide illumination directed to a lifting location. The jack includes transparent material positioned disposed below the contact surface of the top plate and disposed above the plurality of lights to protect the lights, while allowing light to emanate on the lifting location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Kai Hsiang Traffic Appliances Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Lai-Shun Lin
  • Publication number: 20110278524
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a lift assembly for lowering and elevating rod holders on a fishing boat. The lift assembly includes first and second horizontal positioning beams parallel to one another. Affixed to the positioning beams are a first pivoting assembly and second pivoting assembly. The first pivoting assembly has a stationary vertical beam having a first and second end (attached to both horizontal positioning beams). A first pivoting beam attaches via a first hinge to the first end of the vertical stationary beam, while a second pivoting beam attached to the second end of the vertical stationary beam via a second hinge. The first pivoting assembly includes a second vertical beam that attaches to both distal ends of the first pivoting beam and the second pivoting beam. The lift assembly may include a power train (a hydraulic position) to lower and elevate the first and second pivoting assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventor: Hector Paredes
  • Publication number: 20110272652
    Abstract: An apparatus for moving an elongate component within or through a sidewall of a pit, including a frame, a lever arm pivotably attached to the frame and comprising a handle at a first end, a gripping arrangement pivotably attached to the lever arm at a second end at a gripping pivot point, allowing the gripping arrangement to pivot about the gripping pivot point to assume a first and a second installation position, wherein in a first installation position during use the gripping arrangement grips the elongate component as the lever arm pivots in a first direction and releases the elongate component as the lever arm pivots in a second, opposite, direction, and wherein in a second installation position during use the gripping arrangement releases the elongate component as the lever arm pivots in a first direction and grips the elongate component as the lever arm pivots in a second, opposite, direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2009
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Applicant: BRITISH TELECOMMUNICATIONS PUBLIC LIMITED COMPANY
    Inventors: Mark Edward Scopes, Christopher Nigel Munnings
  • Publication number: 20110255944
    Abstract: A lifting apparatus has a support structure, a frame pivotally connected to the support structure, an actuating means connected to the frame so as to move the frame between a retracted position and an extended position, a lifting bar pivotally connected to the frame, and a linkage having one end pivotally connected to the support structure and an opposite end connected to the lifting bar. The lifting bar has a first strut with one end pivotally to the frame, a second strut with the one end pivotally affixed to the frame, and a cross member affixed adjacent to opposite ends of the first and second struts and extending thereacross. The linkage includes a first link and a second link each having fixed lengths.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2010
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventor: Helmut GROLLITSCH
  • Patent number: 8033526
    Abstract: A land clearing device that is sized and configured to be attached to a small earth moving machine, such as a skid loader. The land clearing device has a pusher assembly with telescopically extendable actuator arms that are operated by a control unit accessible from the interior of the earthmoving machine. When the actuator arms are extended, the forward end of the pusher assembly applies lateral force on a trunk of a tree, pushing the tree until uprooted. The pusher assembly is supported by a pair of upright legs that rest on the ground and provide stability to the pusher assembly, which cantilevered from the upright legs. A Y-shaped grabber assembly has a front hook that partially encircles and holds the tree below the location of contact with the pusher assembly. A mounting assembly is secured to the pusher assembly and the grabber assembly by a common securing rod about which the pusher assembly and the grabber assembly can pivot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Inventor: Vincent A. Molino
  • Publication number: 20110197357
    Abstract: A bed lifting system for lifting a bed comprises a bed lifting mechanism and a switch remotely located from the bed lifting mechanism. The switch is adapted to enable selective and remote actuation of the bed lifting mechanism. The mechanism can be provided in kit form through the use of frame connectors which can also improve the interconnection and interoperability of frame members of the mechanism. The mechanism may also comprise adjustable lands to accommodate varying bed types.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2011
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Inventor: John Koorey