Mechanically Actuated Patents (Class 254/124)
  • Patent number: 11192763
    Abstract: A parking lift for vehicles. The parking lift includes a platform on which a vehicle can be parked and lifted by a pair of scissor-lifts configured to raise and lower the platform to enable parking of a second vehicle beneath the platform. A deck of the platform is provided with a gradual slope throughout its length to enable vehicles with low ground clearance to travel onto the platform without contacting an underside of the vehicle with the deck. Each of the scissor-lifts includes short leg and a long leg that is longer than the short leg. Upon actuation between lowered and raised positions, the legs raise an entry end of the platform a greater vertical distance than an opposite terminal end. The platform is thus tilted upward to place a deck thereof in a substantially level or downwardly sloping orientation from the entry end toward the terminal end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2021
    Assignee: BendPak, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Kritzer, Donald R. Henthorn
  • Patent number: 10890509
    Abstract: The device described herein and the associated method relate, in particular, to a holding device for a wind tunnel test stand 1, in particular for a wind tunnel balance. The device may comprise a holding base 5a, 6a, which may be arranged outside of a conveyor belt 3 of the wind tunnel test stand 1, and a support element 7 having at least two ends 7a, 7b. Via a connection element 13, one end of the support element 7 may be connected to a wheel 22 of a test object 4. Furthermore, a support device 8 may be provided, which may be connected to the support element 7 in such a way that a change in a rotational orientation of the support element 7 can cause a lifting or lowering movement of the support device 8.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2021
    Assignee: MAHA-AIP GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Christian Hartmann, Anton Knestel
  • Patent number: 10835429
    Abstract: A platform link mechanism may include a base with a first member rotatably coupled to the base. A second member may be coupled to the first member. The second member may be moveable with respect to the first member between a first position and a second position. A lifting link assembly may be rotatably coupled to each of the base and the second member. A platform mount may be coupled to the second member. The platform mount may be rotatable about a platform pivot with respect to the second member. The lifting link assembly may rotate relative to the first member, the second member, and the base as the second member moves relative to the first member. The first member may rotate relative to the base as the lifting link assembly rotates relative to the first member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2020
    Assignee: PRIDE MOBILITY PRODUCTS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Frank Lykkegaard
  • Patent number: 10512570
    Abstract: A cot can include a support frame that extends between a front end and a back end. A front leg and a back leg can be slidingly coupled to the support frame. A front actuator can be coupled to the front leg and slide the front leg to retract and extend the front leg. A back actuator can be coupled to the back leg and slide the back leg to retract and extend the front leg. One or more processors can execute machine readable instructions to receive signals from one or more sensors indicative of the front end of the cot and the front leg. The one or more processors can actuate the back actuator to extend the back leg to raise the back end of the cot, when the front end of the cot is supported by a surface and the front leg is retracted a predetermined amount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2019
    Assignee: Ferno-Washington, Inc.
    Inventors: Nicholas V. Valentino, Matthew Palastro, Zhen Y. Shen, Timothy R. Wells, Timothy Paul Schroeder, Joshua James Markham, Robert L. Potak
  • Patent number: 10407134
    Abstract: An integrated, electro-mechanical system to distribute anchor chain relatively equally in a yacht's/boat's/ship's anchor chain locker during recovery of the anchor. One embodiment of the Chain Flaker System invention will: (1) fit a Fleming F-78 chain locker and fit other vessels' similar chain lockers with minimal changes; (2) minimally obstruct access into the chain locker; (3) well handle 600? of ½?, or more length of, smaller diameter chain in a Fleming F-78 and adapt to handle more, and/or larger diameter, chain and/or other vessels with similar access to, but different sized, chain lockers; (4) be economic, robust, reliable, and easy-to-maintain, including because intentionally simple mechanically (e.g. single hydraulic cylinder or linear servo unit of L-shaped chain distribution model or single hydraulic or electric driver of figure 8 shaped chain distribution model); and (5) be easy and safe to operate as essentially automatic with safety features to minimize risk of injury.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Inventor: Lee Stevens
  • Patent number: 10258298
    Abstract: A medical image scanning system includes a top plate on which an object is placed, a drive screw shaft, and a fall prevention unit. The fall prevention unit includes a load support nut that is threadedly engaged with the drive screw shaft and to which the load of the top plate is applied; a fall prevention nut that is arranged below the load support nut and is threadedly engaged with the drive screw shaft; a rotation prevention mechanism that prevents the rotation of the load support nut; and a detent mechanism that performs the turning stop of the fall prevention nut and releases the turning stop of the fall prevention nut when the threaded engagement between the drive screw shaft and the load support nut is disconnected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Assignee: HITACHI, LTD.
    Inventors: Yuta Inoue, Mikio Mochitate, Kenya Sakanaka
  • Patent number: 10221087
    Abstract: Apparatus for applying traction to an elongate cylindrical element produced by fusion of an end portion of a preform of glass material, in which a traction device is capable of being connected to a portion of the elongate cylindrical element to provide traction of the elongate cylindrical element along an axis. A device for the rotation of the elongate cylindrical element applies a twist to the elongate cylindrical element about the axis simultaneously with the traction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2019
    Assignee: PRYSMIAN CAVI E SISTEMI ENERGIA S.R.L.
    Inventors: Marco Antonio Caiata, Franco Cocchini, Giuseppe Ferri, Andrea Mazzotti, Alessandro Rossi, Antonio Schiaffo
  • Patent number: 10138691
    Abstract: A mobile service rig with an integrated pipe handling assembly is provided. The rig includes an elongate frame, an attached elongate mast, and an attached a pipe handling assembly. The mast base is pivotally attached to the frame for moving the mast between horizontal and vertical orientations. The pipe handling assembly includes a pipe trough and a trough lifting arm pivotally attached to frame and pipe trough to move a pipe between a horizontal orientation and a vertical orientation collinear with the mast in the vertical orientation. The pipe handling assembly may also include a pair of pipe racks pivotally attached to the frame to extend transversely away from the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2018
    Assignee: Option Technologies Corp.
    Inventors: Dustin Kos, Marlin Belanger, Preston Kurash
  • Patent number: 9943032
    Abstract: An apparatus, system and method of securing attachments to a utility vehicle, particularly a stand-on, zero-turn mower. The apparatus includes an A-shaped mounting assembly having a base with first and second ends and a tubular member extending outwardly from the first end. The tubular member defines a bore that receives a shaft extending from the attachment. The mounting assembly is positioned vertically above a mower deck but on an opposite side of the mower frame. The second end of the mounting assembly and part of the mower deck are secured to the frame using the same connectors. A hydraulic actuator engages a forwardmost end of the assembly and is actuatable to raise or lower the assembly relative to the frame, pivoting the assembly about the connectors. The attachment and mower deck are substantially simultaneously operable to perform separate landscaping tasks while the mower moves across a surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: Green Industry Innovators, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Steffon L. Hoppel
  • Patent number: 9908759
    Abstract: A rolling vehicle jack for elevating a vehicle includes a base. A spring is coupled to a top of the base and is positioned in an internal space of the base. A sphere is rollably coupled to the spring and selectively extensible through a penetration that is positioned through a bottom of the base. A lift is coupled to and selectively extensible from the top of the base. An actuator, positioned in the internal space, is coupled to the base and operationally coupled to the lift. The sphere is configured to roll on a surface such that the base is reversibly positionable under a vehicle. The actuator is positioned to motivate the lift to extend vertically from the base, wherein the sphere is retracted into the base. A vehicle that is positioned above the lift is raised and is positioned for maintenance, such as changing of tires, wheels and tracks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2018
    Inventor: Lonnie Cofield
  • Patent number: 9901500
    Abstract: A lifting assembly includes a cart that includes a first section, a second section and a third section. Each of the first section, the second section and the third section are removably coupled together. The first section may be rolled along a support surface. A lifting unit is coupled to the cart and the lifting unit is positioned on the second section. The lifting unit selectively urges the third section upwardly with respect to the support surface. The third section may be gripped by a user thereby facilitating the third section to lift the user from a seated position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2018
    Inventor: Michael Nordvik
  • Patent number: 9791349
    Abstract: An end play measurement apparatus is provided that measures end play of a tapered roller bearing of a gear unit. The gear unit supports a large-gear shaft, with which a gear is fitted, via the tapered roller bearing. The end play measurement apparatus includes a power generation unit, which is fixed to the large-gear shaft and generates power to move the gear unit backward and forward in the axial direction, a position change unit, which is interposed between the power generation unit and the gear unit and changes the axial position of the gear unit by using the power of the power generation unit, and a booster mechanism, which has a free end that receives the power of the power generation unit to boost the power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignee: MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Michinori Hashimoto, Shinsaku Maeda, Hideo Terasawa
  • Patent number: 9725289
    Abstract: A lifting apparatus for lifting a manhole cover includes a first frame section with a first end assembly that supports a hook to engage a lifting block on a manhole cover, and a second frame section with a second end assembly that supports a hook to engage a lifting block on the manhole cover. At least one of the first and second end assemblies is movable, via an actuator, with respect to the other to change a distance between hooks. The hooks are movable in a way that the hooks engage with the lifting blocks on an adjacent manhole cover. The first frame section is coupled to the second frame section during a lifting operation, and the first and second frame sections are selectively detachable from one another when not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: HLBP DESIGN CORP.
    Inventors: Michael T. Panio, Jeffrey Baynon
  • Patent number: 9598272
    Abstract: An apparatus for transporting a load onto a raised surface includes: a frame; and rear, middle, and front wheel assemblies coupled to the frame. Each wheel assembly includes: at least one leg, at least one wheel rotatingly coupled to the leg for rollingly supporting the frame, and at least one actuator operatively coupled to the at least one leg. The front wheel assembly is configured to extend forwardly from, and retract rearwardly toward, the frame. The actuators are configured to independently raise and lower the at least one rear, middle, and front wheel. A load support member is located below the frame and moveable between a first position where the center of gravity of the load is located rearward of an axis defined by the at least one middle wheel, and a second position where the center of gravity of the load is located forward of the axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2017
    Assignee: 2336063 ONTARIO INC.
    Inventor: Volodymyr Ivanchenko
  • Patent number: 9499377
    Abstract: An adjustable hydraulic jack with a slider locking structure that includes a chassis, hydraulic assembly, boom assembly, and handle lever. The boom assembly includes a bracket, a fore arm, and a rear arm. The bracket includes a pull handle, left and right bracket side-plates, and a bracket-fixing pin. The bracket is connected to one end of the fore arm, the other end of the fore arm is connected to one end of the rear arm, and the other end of the rear arm is connected to the chassis. The left and right bracket side-plates have left and right side-plate sockets on their respective bottoms; the fore arm has left and right sliding chutes and a spring-loaded fixing pin fixed on its upper end. A slider locking device is arranged between the bracket and the fore arm, and includes left and right sliders, a spring and at least one pin shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Assignee: CHANGSHU TONGRUN AUTO ACCESSORY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Min Shen, Xiaoming Shi
  • Patent number: 9463966
    Abstract: A movable scissor-lift device for lifting small wheeled vehicles, including, but not limited to, wheelchairs, mowers, ATVs, and the like. The scissor-lift provides a secure platform that can be raised to different heights. It can be easily moved and used to service, assemble, or build equipment in manufacturing plants, service centers, labs, hospitals, and the like. Various access openings on the lifting platform allow for easier servicing of equipment on the lift. Likewise, since the wheels of the vehicles hang free without being blocked by the body of the lift, it is easier to access and service the wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Inventor: Mehdi Mirzaie Damabi
  • Patent number: 9370978
    Abstract: A hitch adapter system with damping effect for controlling back and forth movement or bumping on the hitch receiver and the prime mover. The hitch adapter system with damping effect includes a lower support member having a planar bottom wall and adapted to be in communication with a prime mover; an upper support member having a planar main wall and disposed above and movable relative to the lower support member and adapted to be in communication with a trailer; a linkage assembly pivotably interconnecting the lower and upper support members; and a buffer assembly retarding and cushioning the movement of the upper support member relative to the lower support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2016
    Inventor: Robert C. Sagen
  • Patent number: 9301444
    Abstract: A rotary cutting deck height of cut adjustment mechanism includes a front pair of height of cut arms and a rear pair of height of cut arms, each height of cut arm pivotably mounted at an angle to a rotary cutting deck. A height of cut rod extends between a front height of cut arm and a rear height of cut arm on each side of the deck. A height of cut adjustment screw is rotatable to extend or retract each height of cut rod. A linkage is provided between the pair of height of cut adjustment screws, so that the angle of the height of cut arms may be adjusted from a single point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventors: Chad W. Campbell, Chad C. Steen
  • Patent number: 9199297
    Abstract: The invention relates to a drive device for multiaxial transport of workpieces through successive machining stations of a machine tool, in particular of a multistage forming press, wherein the drive device comprises two gripper rails, wherein the two gripper rails are transversely displaceable independently of each other by a first transverse drive assigned to the first gripper rail and a second transverse drive assigned to the second gripper rail for the execution of a closing movement. The gripper rails are here vertically displaceable independently of each other for the execution of a lifting movement, and/or the gripper rails are longitudinally displaceable independently of each other for the execution of a transport movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Assignee: Schuler Pressen GmbH
    Inventors: Christian Müller, Anton Lendler
  • Patent number: 9151012
    Abstract: A thumb body is pivotally connected to a first mount, and a stiff-arm anchor is connected to and extends between the first mount and a second mount. The stiff-arm anchor is selectively removable from the first and second mounts. A stiff-arm support link includes a first end connected to the thumb body and a second end connected to the stiff-arm anchor. The thumb can be converted from a hydraulic mode to a stiff-arm or fixed mode by disconnecting the first end of a hydraulic cylinder actuator from the thumb body and disconnecting the second end of the hydraulic cylinder actuator from the second mount, and by installing the stiff-arm anchor and stiff-arm support link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Assignee: Paladin Brands Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony G. Seda, James J. Crook
  • Publication number: 20140271092
    Abstract: A lift efficiency improvement mechanism is provided for use with a service wedge configured to be removably installed in an access slot of a turbine casing. The lift efficiency improvement mechanism includes a connector element, which is connectable with the turbine casing proximate to the access slot and a manually transportable lift efficiency improvement device, which is supportably coupled to the connector element and movably coupled to the service wedge. The lift efficiency improvement device is configured to urge the service wedge to move relative to the access slot responsive to corresponding operator control movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Michael Alan Davi, Thomas James Batzinger
  • Patent number: 8832911
    Abstract: A lace tightening apparatus including a handle and a gripping platform. The gripping platform is adapted to travel up into the interior of the handle upon a compression force being applied thereto. An anvil is rigidly attached to the handle projecting downward from the underside. One or more springs are disposed within the interior, with the first end of the spring anchored to the handle within the interior and the second end connected to the gripping portion. A stylus is attached to the gripping portion having a post and an L-shaped portion including a lip. The lip is exposed outside of the anvil and projects downward away from the anvil. Therefore, when the compression force is applied to the gripping platform, the lip travels upward toward the bottom surface of the anvil such that a lace can be pinched between the lip and the bottom surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Inventor: James L. Strong
  • Publication number: 20140246637
    Abstract: An improved jack assembly includes multiple handle attachment positions. The jack assembly includes an outer tube and an inner tube moveable with respect to the outer tube. The outer tube includes a first handle attachment position to engage inner gearing and a second handle attachment position to engage inner gearing. A handle may be removably connected to the first attachment position or second attachment position. The outer tube may be connected to a mounting fixture and adjustable with respect to the mounting fixture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2013
    Publication date: September 4, 2014
    Applicant: CEQUENT CONSUMER PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: Derek Anderson
  • Patent number: 8714524
    Abstract: A belt-driven transportation system including a first set of pulleys rotatably attached to a first member and a second set of pulleys rotatably attached to a second member. The first and second members have relative movement to each other. The system further includes a unitary belt that is guided through a path defined by the first and second sets of pulleys. A plurality of flange members maintain a proper positioning of the belt on the pulleys.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Herkules Equipment Corporation
    Inventor: Todd J. Bacon
  • Patent number: 8701791
    Abstract: There is disclosed a post extractor comprised in a post-pounder, the device having a length and a crosswise extraction hole. The hole may be sized to accept an exposed portion of the post and may have an engaging edge for engaging an exposed portion of the post. Methods of using the extractor to extract a post are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Inventor: Justin Page
  • 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: 20140084227
    Abstract: The invention relates to a motorized vertically adjustable lifting table, for example for use in body work construction in the motor vehicle industry. It is shown how a lifting table of this kind can be designed to be operationally reliable in the case of a correspondingly designed configuration for the corresponding movement profile of the load pick-up body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: SOPAP AUTOMATION SAS
    Inventors: Andre TUNKERS, Francois ROTA
  • Patent number: 8662477
    Abstract: A belt-driven transportation system including a first set of pulleys rotatably attached to a first member and a second set of pulleys rotatably attached to a second member. The first and second members have relative movement to each other. The system further includes a unitary belt that is guided through a path defined by the first and second sets of pulleys with the path substantially lying in a stationary plane, and a plurality of retention rollers. A retention roller is disposed adjacent each pulley, with the belt extending about the pulley and between the pulley and the retention roller. The positioning of the belt substantially on the path is maintained by the plurality of retention rollers, and the first and second members are moved relative to each other with changes in the length of the path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Herkules Equipment Corporation
    Inventor: Todd J. Bacon
  • Patent number: 8646125
    Abstract: A transport apparatus includes a base, a sling, a support frame mounted to the base. The support frame extends over the base and is configured to move from a first position spaced above the base at a first height wherein the support frame may be extended over and proximate a support surface for engaging the sling when placed on the support surface to a second position spaced above a second height greater than the first height once engaged with the sling wherein when the support frame and the sling are raised to the second position the sling is raised above the support surface so that a person supported on the sling may be lifted off the support surface with the sling and moved away from the support surface by the base. Further, the sling may be rotatably mounted to the support frame to facilitate reorientation of the person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: Martin W. Stryker, Jeffrey L. Lewandowski, Jason James Wroblewski
  • Patent number: 8628061
    Abstract: A jack assembly including a base for contacting a support surface and a shaft having a first end coupled to the base and a second end, wherein the shaft includes a power screw disposed therein; and a coupling head pivotally coupled to the second end of the shaft, wherein the coupling head is adapted to be coupled to an object to be lifted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Inventor: E. Bruce Bibbee
  • Patent number: 8602392
    Abstract: The various embodiments herein provide a jack assembly for raising and lowering the vehicles. The assembly comprises a base sheet mounted with two lower arms, a retentive sheet mounted with two upper arms and two shafts. The two upper arms are pivotably connected to the lower arms respectively through the two shafts. A wire rope is passed over a groove provided on a plurality of pulleys rotatably mounted on one of the two shafts. A spanner and a jack handle are provided respectively on the two shafts. When the jack handle is pulled up, the two ends of wire ropes move towards each other to make the two shafts to approach towards each other thereby displacing the lower arms and upper arms to lift the retentive sheet for raising the vehicles with a single pull movement of the jack handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Inventor: Hossein Arghami Nia
  • Patent number: 8602391
    Abstract: A scissor car jack includes a spindle, a base, a support head, a cross-member, and a spindle support with a threaded bore for holding the spindle. The base and support head are rotatably connected to the crossmember and the spindle support by way of a respective support arm, and wherein the support arms are connected with one another in the area of the base and the support head and/or in the area of the crossmember and the spindle support, and the spindle is coupled to the crossmember and the spindle support so that when the spindle is rotated, the distance between the spindle support and the crossmember can be changed. The length of the support arms can be changed telescopically and can be locked in the extended state by way of locking pins so that the scissor jack can be collapsed into a smaller volume, in particular for purposes of stowage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Audi AG
    Inventor: Dragan Milicic
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8511644
    Abstract: Device that uses the force of one or several persons to help a stuck vehicle get free. It comprises a set of chains of blocks (2) to put in front of the wheels and that are connected by straps (3.6) to a system that will pull them under the wheels while pushing the car by reaction. The forces come from a lever system consisting of a main bar with a triangular part fixed underneath and near its front end. When the operator lifts the bar, the displacement of the extremities of the triangular part away from the wheels creates a pull on the straps while the front end of the bar pushes the car. The blocks become the fulcrum of this lever system. Alternately, a winch fixed on the car bumper pulls on the straps via deviation rollers or rings, transmitting the reaction pushing forces to the car rear part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Inventor: Philippe Biesse
  • Patent number: 8505877
    Abstract: The invention describes a rescue apparatus (1) with prising arms (4, 5) on a support housing (3) mounted in at least one pivot bearing arrangement (20) with a drive system (2) so as to be displaceable in pincer-like movement about a pivot axis (17) extending perpendicular to a longitudinal mid-axis (18) of the support housing (3). Surface regions (41) with a higher resistance to wear than the resistance to wear of adjacent regions (42) are provided on at least mutually facing internal surfaces (26, 27) of the prising arms (4, 5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Weber-Hydraulik GmbH
    Inventor: Kurt Strohmeier
  • Patent number: 8500098
    Abstract: An elevation mechanism includes a platform, a base assembly, a scissor lift assembly and a sliding assembly. The base assembly includes a threaded rod having two threaded portions and two threaded members threadedly engaging with the threaded rod. Rotation directions of the two threaded portion are opposite to each other. The scissor lift assembly includes a plurality of articulated first scissor legs and a plurality of articulated second scissor legs pivotedly coupled to the respective second scissor legs. The sliding assembly includes two fixing members fixed to the platform, a sliding rod fixed between the two fixing members, and two sliding members slidablely connected to the sliding rod. The two sliding members are correspondingly pivotedly connected to the upmost first and second scissor leg. The two threaded members are pivotedly connected to the lowermost first and second scissor legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hai-Yuan Li
  • Patent number: 8465004
    Abstract: A post removal system having a base plate, a vertical support plate extending upwardly from a top surface of the base plate, and a handle pivotally attached to a top edge of the vertical support plate via a pivot pin, the handle is positioned atop the vertical support plate such that the vertical support plate is at a point between the midpoint and the first end of the handle, the pivot pin is perpendicular to the handle, the handle can pivot upwardly and downwardly about the pivot pin, and a stake gripping component pivotally attached to the first end of the handle via a hinge, the stake gripping component can pivot upwardly and downwardly about the hinge with respect to the handle, the stake gripping component having a slot in a side adjacent to the hinge, wherein the slot is adapted to temporarily accept a stake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Inventor: David L. Fly
  • Patent number: 8382068
    Abstract: A scissor jack for handling heavy duty work includes four arms hingedly arranged to provide two opposite elbows between a base and a load support, a pair of trunnions, one at each elbow connected by a threaded shaft. One end of the threaded shaft is rotatably engaged in a threaded bush anchored to one elbow on a trunnion to extend beyond the outer corner of the elbow. The jack further includes a movable brace comprising a block slidable on the threaded shaft and carried between a pair of plates which are pivotally secured to the connectors and bent to provide stops for simultaneous location of the arms with spacers on the trunnions to determine the extended position of the jack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Quaddro Technologies Pty., Ltd.
    Inventor: Colin Christie
  • Patent number: 8365875
    Abstract: A tire chock having an at least partially threaded rod; a first trunnion having an aperture therethrough that receives the rod; first and second locking members, one locking member being rotatably fixed relative to the rod, the other locking member being rotatably fixed relative to the first trunnion. A tire chock may alternatively have an at least partially threaded rod; an upper trunnion rotatably attached to the rod; a lower trunnion threadedly attached to the rod, the lower trunnion translating axially relative to the rod upon rotation of the rod relative to the lower trunnion; a pair of linkage arms, the pair of linkage arms forming an X-shape, each linkage arm being connected to the lower trunnion by a drive arm and being connected to the upper trunnion by a support arm, wherein, as the rod is rotated relative to the lower trunnion, the linkage arms expand or contract.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Norco Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Bernard F. Garceau
  • Patent number: 8313089
    Abstract: A lift apparatus for lifting a structure includes a base, a bell crank pivotably coupled to the base, a coupling member for engaging a portion of the structure, pivotably coupled to the bell crank device via at least one lift member, and a longeron assembly having a pivoting apex and configured to pivot about the base. The apparatus also includes a biasing device having a first end pivotably coupled to the bell crank device for applying a force thereto, the bell crank device converting the first force to a second force and applying the second force to the coupling member via the lift member for lifting the structure. A movement of the structure is compensated by rotation of portions of the longeron assembly which repositions the apex, the bell crank, and lift arm to maintain the structure in the lifted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Inventor: Richard W. Bogert
  • Patent number: 8308134
    Abstract: A mobile jack is provided for a vehicle the where the mobile jack includes a movable base with a plurality of rollers adapted for moving the jack upon a generally horizontal support surface and positioning the jack under a load. The mobile jack may lift loads using a scissor assembly lying in a vertical plane where the scissor assembly connected between the movable base and an upper platform. Additionally, the mobile jack may include at least one hydraulic cylinder for actuating the scissor assembly. The mobile jack may include a safety lock for locking the upper platform in a lifted position where the lock is movable between at least one locked and unlocked position. When the upper platform is in the lifted position, the lock automatically moves to the locked position so that it cooperates with the scissor assembly to prevent the scissor assembly from lowering independent of the cylinders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Stan Design, Inc.
    Inventors: Branimir Stanimirovic, Alec Stanimirovic
  • Patent number: 8286944
    Abstract: A motor vehicle lift includes two parallel runways, each provided with at least two elevating devices each having first and second uprights hinged to each other, to the floor (runway) and to the runway (floor) respectively; first and second arms hinged together, the second arm being further hinged to the second upright along a hinging axis equidistant from the axis on which the second upright is hinged to the runway (floor) and from the end of the second arm, which is slidable along a guide provided in the runway (floor), the first arm being also hinged to the first upright; and an actuator device securable selectively to two elements of the quadrilateral formed from the first/second uprights and the first/second arms, at least one of the parts of the quadrilateral being provided with elastic means to vary the dimension between the two hinged ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: O.ME.R. S.p.A.
    Inventors: Eride Rossato, Alberto Comand
  • Patent number: 8191862
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a spring compression apparatus for compressing a coil spring and a related method of making this apparatus. A top plate is provided that engages and supports a first end of a coil spring. A middle plate engages and supports a second end of the coil spring, so that the coil spring is supported between these two plates. A base plate is disposed on an opposite side of the middle plate from the top plate. A frame is formed that fixedly supports the top plate and the base plate. The frame also slidably supports the middle plate. A jack, which is positioned between the base plate and the middle plate. The jack urges the middle plate toward the top plate, so as to compress the coil spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Christopher Arabian
  • Patent number: 8186651
    Abstract: A conveyor belt lifting device for use on a belt-type conveyor comprising a conveyor belt supported by a support structure includes an inflatable bag and is operable between a retracted condition in which the inflatable bag is deflated and an operative condition in which the inflatable bag is inflated and its operably upper surface adopts a shape generally to conform to an underside of the conveyor belt. The invention extends to a method for providing access to components of a belt-type conveyor comprising a conveyor belt supported by a support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Inventor: John Dowling
  • Patent number: 8162159
    Abstract: The modular garage storage system includes a geared retraction system that allows a storage platform of the modular garage storage system to be lowered for easy access to loading and loading the storage platform, and that allows the storage platform to be raised up to be completely out of the way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Patent number: 8160475
    Abstract: This involves a cart that can be used in changing a marking module in a xerographic color marking system. The cart has a lifting mechanism securely attached to its upper surface. When the marking module is to be changed and a new replacement module installed, the lifting mechanism is used to support the marking module during each of these procedures. Since the marking modules are relatively heavy (30-35 lbs.), to prevent accidental damage to the module, the cart and its attached lifting mechanism are conveniently used by the customer. The lifting mechanism is made up of an upper cradle, a bottom plate attached to the cart and a movable linkage. The module securely rests in the cradle in both removal and installing operations. It is not uncommon for a customer to want to change a color or colors in one or more modules. This cart and its attached lifting mechanism makes it relatively easy to accomplish this change.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: Mark A. Atwood, James J. Spence
  • Patent number: 8141851
    Abstract: A portable lift including a pair of elongate rails adapted for being located underneath corresponding lift points associated with a vehicle to be elevated. A pair of cross members fixedly securing at opposite ends to spaced apart locations associated with the rails and in order to construct a frame. Scissor jacks are associated with end location of the first and second rails. A drive shaft communicates to one or more of the scissor jacks, and responsive to a converted rotary input, actuates the jacks, separately or in unison, thereby causing the rails to vertically displaced for elevating and/or lowering the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Inventors: Boytcho Manev, Eric B. Manev
  • Publication number: 20120043515
    Abstract: The invention relates to a lifting device for lifting loads, in particular vehicles, comprising load receiving means which can be raised and lowered by means of at least one lifting element, and a drive device which is controlled by a drive control. Said lifting device is characterised in that an energy accumulator, which supplies the drive control and the drive device with energy, is provided on the lifting element, the load receiving means or inside a working area of the load receiving means or the lifting element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2010
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Inventors: Gerhard Finkbeiner, Josef Femböck
  • Patent number: 8081901
    Abstract: This invention provides a xerographic marking module that has a built-in lifting mechanism that is useful in installing a new module in a xerographic marking system. The lifting mechanism forms the bottom portion of the marking module and comprises an upper cradle to hold the remaining module portion, a lower plate that constitutes the bottom of the module when in a collapsed position, and a movable linkage that connects the cradle to the lower plate. When in installation mode, the linkage creates a vertical force which will upwardly push the cradle (holding the module) away from the lower plate into an installation elevation. After slides in the module and in the color marking system are mated, the lifting mechanism is collapsed and the module pushed into the color marking system or apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: Mark A. Atwood, James J Spence
  • Publication number: 20110272657
    Abstract: A lift apparatus for lifting a structure includes a base, a bell crank pivotably coupled to the base, a coupling member for engaging a portion of the structure, pivotably coupled to the bell crank device via at least one lift member, and a longeron assembly having a pivoting apex and configured to pivot about the base. The apparatus also includes a biasing device having a first end pivotably coupled to the bell crank device for applying a force thereto, the bell crank device converting the first force to a second force and applying the second force to the coupling member via the lift member for lifting the structure. A movement of the structure is compensated by rotation of portions of the longeron assembly which repositions the apex, the bell crank, and lift arm to maintain the structure in the lifted position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventor: Richard W. Bogert