Abstract: The translation block with disengaging nut (15) comprises a translation body (4) which serves as a housing for the nut (15) and which slides along the guide element (7) surrounding the screw. The interior unit comprises the nut (15) formed of two mechanically identical pieces (29, 30) which are attached to the screw (13) and separated by an elastic restraint, and an immobilizing-release device (18) cooperating with blocking grooves (42) on the nut, comprised of two flanges (20, 21) each pivoting on an axle parallel to the screw, elastically joined to the nut and released through the action of a pneumatic force. This invention is of interest to manufacturers of storage devices, for example, screw-mounted lifting mechanisms for vehicle transport trailers.

Abstract: A trailer with expandable sides and retractable wheels used for performing on site vehicle maintenance and repair services. The trailer has a rectangular frame mounted on wheels with a conventional trailer coupler for attachment to a towing vehicle. The wheels are pivotally mounted to the frame, the wheels being locked in a ground engaging position for towing the trailer, and being unlocked so that the frame may be lowered into a ground engaging position by a plurality of hydraulic cylinders for the servicing of vehicles. The frame includes a plurality of crossbeams. A pair of side extenders telescope into the front, rear and center crossbeams so that the width of the trailer may be extended by hydraulic cylinders with the frame in a ground engaging position. The trailer includes a two-post hydraulic vehicle lift for raising the vehicle to be serviced.

Abstract: A parallelogram lift in which the deck rails are raised by lifting legs affixed to sliding members that slide within channels in the deck rails. Link arms pivotally connect to the deck rail to each leg, so that the deck rail lifts vertically. A single hydraulic actuator is used to actuate the legs supporting each deck rail, which ensures that the deck rail remains level during the lifting and lowering processes.

Abstract: A wheel engaging vehicle lift for raising a vehicle relative to the ground and for supporting the vehicle in a raised position includes first and second support columns standing vertically upward from the ground. A first carriage is movably attached to the first support column and a second carriage is movably attached to the second support column. A first pair of arms extend away from the first carriage and a second pair of arms extend away from the second carriage, wherein the first and second pairs of arms are each rotatable about a substantially vertical axis proximate to a first end of the arms. A wheel engaging adapter may be removably secured proximate to an opposite end of the first and second pairs of arms, wherein the adapters are each rotatable about a substantially vertical axis proximate to the second end. The structure of the invention enables a conventional two-post frame engaging lift to be easily and readily converted into a two-post wheel engaging vehicle lift, and vice versa.

Abstract: An uplift assembly has a first uplifter, a second uplifter, a rod enclosed by the first uplifter and the second uplifter, a first positioning plate connected to the first uplifter, a second positioning plate connected to the second uplifter, a first clamping plate clamping the first positioning plate, a second clamping plate clamping the first positioning plate, a third clamping plate clamping the second positioning plate, a fourth clamping plate clamping the second positioning plate, a first cylinder disposed between the first clamping plate and the third clamping plate, a second cylinder disposed between the second clamping plate and the fourth clamping plate, and a base plate disposed beneath the third clamping plate, the fourth clamping plate and the second uplifter.

Abstract: An apparatus for lifting furniture in place to install floor covering underneath the furniture. The apparatus comprises a plurality lifting assemblies. Each lifting assembly includes a substantially vertical piston and cylinder assembly. A piston rod is attached to each piston. The piston rod extends from the upper end of the piston and cylinder assembly and a substantially L-shaped member is attached to the piston rod. A pressurized fluid control system is constructed and arranged to uniformly supply pressurized fluid to the lifting assemblies; whereby, the lifting assemblies act together to simultaneously lift furniture in one movement when pressurized fluid is uniformly supplied from the pressurized fluid control system to the lifting assemblies.

Abstract: An improved hydraulic drive mechanism for a vertical conveyor. The conveyor comprises a pair of upright supports or columns and a carriage to support a load or cargo is guided for vertical movement on the columns. The drive mechanism includes a pair of first hydraulic cylinder units and a pair of second hydraulic cylinder units that preferably have twice the length of the first cylinder units. The first or shorter cylinder units are connected between a movable cross beam and the carriage, while the second cylinder units are connected between the movable beam and the upper end of the frame. At a lower level both the first and second cylinder units are in an extended condition, while at an upper level both cylinder units are retracted.

Abstract: An in-place automotive vehicle servicing system for servicing vehicles while in a parking lot or the like utilizes a servicing vehicle carrying a vehicle lifting apparatus. The vehicle lifting apparatus has a telescoping central beam with two pivotal cross-beams. The lifting apparatus is collapsed for carrying in the servicing vehicle, and is extended beneath a vehicle. Jacks carried at the ends of the cross-beams are positioned at the lift points of the vehicle to be serviced, and the jacks are operated to lift the vehicle. A control device is mounted with the lifting apparatus, and includes a computer to provide servicing information about the vehicle to be serviced, and preferably for assisting in aligning the jacks with the vehicle lifting points.

Abstract: An aircraft cargo loader is provided including a platform having a plurality of rollers for supporting cargo thereon. A base member is disposed below the platform and a plurality of telescoping jacks are disposed between the platform and the base member for lifting the platform. A supply of pressurized gas is connected to the plurality of telescoping jacks. An automatic load balancing system is provided for balancing the load on the platform. The cargo loader is designed to be lightweight and portable so that it can be loaded onto the aircraft and transported therewith.

Abstract: A high pressure, low volume hydraulic lift system and a method for retrofitting a low pressure high volume lift system are provided. The lift system includes a low pressure high volume (LPHV) casing within which is mounted a high pressure ram. The ram is equipped to move a plunger in an axial direction with respect to the casing, without the need for any further reinforcement of the existing casing. The method for retrofitting is effected by removing the pre-existing structure of the LPHV system, cutting a hole in the upper portion of the pre-existing casing, and draining all hydraulic fluid. Thereafter, the pre-existing gland flange and plunger are removed. A high pressure low volume hydraulic cylinder and associated hydraulic line, are then installed in the casing of the pre-existing system. The bottom of the high pressure hydraulic cylinder is mechanically locked to the base of the pre-existing outer casing.

Abstract: A hydraulic platform lift for trucks, having hydraulic and electrical circuitry to provide automated, or automated with manual override, platform levelling capability in the event the truck is tilted. Three embodiments are claimed where levelling may be accomplished in three separate ways; a first embodiment where levelling is accomplished by stopping one side of the platform and allowing the other side to "catch up", a second embodiment where levelling is accomplished by reversing the direction of movement of one side relative to the other to allow rapid levelling, and a third embodiment where the rate of movement of one side is slowed relative to the other, to allow the other side to "catch up" and thereby level the platform.

Abstract: A method of retrofit includes the steps of removing the pre-existing superstructure of the lift system. A hole is then cut in the encasement securing the upper portion of the pre-existing casing. Thereafter, all hydraulic fluid is drained. Thereafter, the pre-existing gland flange is removed. The old plunger is also removed. After the same has been accomplished, there is then provided a high pressure low volume hydraulic cylinder and associated hydraulic line, all of which is positioned within the casing of the pre-existing system. The bottom of the high pressure hydraulic cylinder is mechanically locked to the base of the pre-existing outer casing. A new pump and hydraulic lines are then installed. A new plunger is then added to the new hydraulic cylinder and, with it, an appropriate bearing and guide mechanism which uses the pre-existing casing as an outer guide means for the new plunger.

Abstract: A compact lifter assembly having a base plate and a first intermediate plate rigidly connected by a first pair of shafts. A second intermediate plate is slidably attached on the first pair of shafts to be disposed between the base plate and the first intermediate plate. A second pair of shafts extend from the second intermediate plate, through apertures in the first intermediate plate for rigid connection to a mounting plate. A linear actuator centrally located on the base plate is actuated for lifting the mounting plate and a second intermediate plate relative to the base plate. The shafts are rigidly connected to the respective plates by a retaining ring and split taper plugged shaft retention to provide a zero clearance shaft joint connection.

Abstract: An apparatus for lifting and supporting a vehicle relative to the ground includes a base assembly and a relatively shiftable carriage assembly. The base assembly includes a base resting on the ground and an upstanding post, and the cradle assembly is supported on the post for up and down movement. A piston and cylinder assembly is connected between the base assembly and the cradle assembly for moving the cradle up and down, and a pawl and ratchet assembly permits unrestricted upward movement of the cradle assembly while preventing unrestricted downward movement. A locking assembly is provided for locking the cradle assembly in a raised position relative to the base assembly.

Abstract: A stand for the storage of two-dimensional workpieces, as parts of an automobile which are manufactured by presses, made up of individual stacking columns exhibiting movable jacks which are disposed in a stacking profile. The stacking profile is detachably connected to a protective profile.

Abstract: Large storage tanks are lifted by means of pressurized bags and support members. Tanks may easily and quickly be lifted for inspection, repair and reconstruction. Lifting the tank allows for visual inspection under the tank for corrosion to prevent leakage of environmentally hazardous chemicals stored in the tank. The lifting bags are placed under the tank, inflated, and support timbers placed under the raised tank. The bags are then deflated allowing the tank to rest on the support timbers. The deflated bags are raised by placing support timbers under the bags. The bags are again pressurized further raising the tank. The steps are repeated until the tank is lifted to the desired height. Bags may also be placed under the floor after the wall or rim of the tank is lifted. This does not require cutting holes or welding of supports on the wall or floor.

Abstract: A lift for motor vehicles using hydraulic cylinders powered by a remote electrical hydraulic pump. The hydraulic cylinders lift pistons having an upper distal area adaptable for receiving the payload vehicle. The pistons are rigidly linked to each other at their lower proximal ends by an equalizer beam. The upper distal area of each piston includes a mounting plate for accepting a lifting platform for bearing the payload vehicle. The pistons of the lift raise the payload vehicle using the hydraulic cylinders in connection with a series of chains and pulleys. The pulleys are mounted on the hydraulic cylinders. The chains are attached from an upper chain anchor at the top of the lift structure, to the pulleys on the hydraulic cylinder, and to a lower chain anchor on the equalizer beam. Each hydraulic cylinder is contained within a sleeve fixedly mounted to a cylinder mount post.

Abstract: A portable surface lift for a vehicle and a pair of manually retractable wheels respectively attached to a mid-portion of opposite sides of the lift for rolling the lift over a garage floor surface when the vehicle is not lifted on the lift. The lift has fixed pads for contact with the undercarriage of the vehicle, and a hydraulic cylinder raises and lowers the vehicle on the lift. Arms are pivotally attached to opposite sides of the lift with a wheel at the end thereof for manual movement between a wheel-retracted position and a wheel-extended position. The wheels remain in the extended position by an over-center pivoting design. Two towing mechanisms are provided for moving the lift: a towing bar that can be attached to a towing bracket on an end of the lift, or a wheeled towing dolly having a clevis and securing pin for attachment to the towing bracket. The lift has a safety locking mechanism for securing the lift in various raised positions.

Abstract: An elongate tower lifting apparatus including clamps for frictionally clamping to each leg of a tower, jacks for operably engaging and lifting the clamps and a jack control system for controlling the lifting and lowering of the tower. The clamps are connected by cross braces and include structure to snugly and nestingly engage a tower leg. A method is described using the lifting apparatus to lift a tower subsequent to loosening a nut restraining each tower leg to allow placement of a cushioning pad between a foot of each tower leg and a supporting concrete platform.

Abstract: The irradiated component (1) comprises at least one tubular wall with its axis vertical and fastened inside a well (2) in a concrete structure (3). The connecting elements between the concrete structure (3) and the component (1) are destroyed, the component (1) is displaced in successive steps in the vertical direction along its axis on the inside of the well (2), and the wall of the component is cut, so as to obtain blocks (26) of irradiated material of the wall, at the upper level of the well (2) of the concrete structure (3) after each displacement of the component (1). The cut blocks (26) are disposed of for the purpose of elimination or storage. The displacement of the component can be obtained by a pull or push on its lower bottom.

Abstract: An improved hydraulic circuit for a two-post lift having a master cylinder hydraulically connected to a slave cylinder. The master cylinder and slave cylinder are sized so fluid volume displaced at the rod end of the master cylinder is equal to the volume displaced at the piston side of the slave cylinder. The hydraulic circuit employs an automatic leveling valve assembly disposed to open when the lift reaches a fully lowered position to automatically equalize the displaced fluid volume of the master and slave cylinders so as to relevel the lift each time the lift is fully lowered. A sequence valve is positioned to pre-pressurize the slave cylinder before raising to compensate for any air in the circuit and fluid compressibility. A pilot operated check valve is designed to close and stop the descent of the lift in a level position if an obstruction is encountered under a side of the lift.

Abstract: A dual-column vehicle lift having first and second lift columns, each with carriages slidably mounted thereon, and each with piggy-backed hydraulic lift cylinders. The piston rods of each column's piggy-backed lift cylinders extend in opposite directions, one attached to the carriage and the other attached to the base of the lift column. The piggy-backed construction allows a lower collapsed height of the cylinders and also allows a lower lift column height for a given lifting height, thereby allowing use within an area with reduced ceiling clearance. An interconnection tube equalizes hydraulic pressure between the piggy-backed lift cylinders, causing the two cylinders to extend their rods at the same rate. Equalizing cables are provided for ensuring that the carriages on the two lift columns rise and fall together.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for lifting tanks including supporting roof columns including the temporary installation of column support assemblies to those columns to permit cutting them at a sufficient distance from the bottom to allow a reinforced U-shaped support structures to be placed under the columns. A lifting device is placed below the U-shape support structure and in cooperation with wooden logs in criss-crossed arrangement, the structure is blocked up and down. The U-shaped support structures are interconnected to each other with rails that are soldered to the bottom of the tank thereby lifting the bottom simultaneously with the lifting of the columns and roof. The present apparatus and method is to be used in conjunction with lifting apparatus and methods associated with the outer peripheral wall of the tank.

Abstract: A vehicle and vehicle parts transportation system used for moving, positioning and manipulating a vehicle and vehicle parts primarily when a vehicle is damaged or in the need of repairs. The system consists of a power module having interchangeable legs and parts that allow the power module to be reconfigured as to its height, width and length and various tool modules. The power module becomes a different tool as required or desired by the operator by simply adding or removing a tool module. Each specific tool module provides the necessary lifting and motive force apparatus and means for maneuvering the tool module for performing the necessary operation.

Abstract: A retractable shutter for continuously covering the pit of a movable vehicle lift post which along with a fixed lift post is used to elevate vehicles of various lengths comprises two series of articulated panels positioned on one side and the other of the movable lift post at floor level in order to completely cover the pit opening. The articulated panels are horizontally guided at the opening level by horizontal guide rails mounted on the longitudinal walls of the pit and, at each end of the pit, by arcuate guide rails which then extend downwards in order to accommodate the excess of articulated panels depending on the relative position of the movable lift post along the pit. Therefore, when the movable lift post is displaced horizontally in the pit, it causes the two series of articulated panels to displace therewith, some panels emerging from the pit at one of its extremities, whereas other panels retract therein at its other extremity.

Abstract: A method of lifting storage tanks by using pressurized bags and support members. Lifting the tank allows for visual inspection under the tank for corrosion to prevent leakage of environmentally hazardous chemicals stored in the tank. The lifting bags are placed under the tank, inflated, and support timbers placed under the raised tank. The bags are then deflated allowing the tank to rest on the support timbers. The deflated bags are raised by placing support timbers under the bags. The bags are again pressurized further raising the tank. The steps are repeated until the tank is lifted to the desired height. Ground suction is broken by raising one side of the tank with the lifting bags, placing supports as far as possible under the tank rim and depressurizing the bags to rock the other side of the tank off the ground. A fulcrum method is also applied to use the partial weight of the tank as a leverage force to alternately raise opposite sides of the tank.

Abstract: Lifting apparatus for lifting equipment such as utility vehicles (e.g., three-wheeled commercial mowers, four-wheeled vehicles, outdooor power equipment, etc.) for inspection, servicing and repair purposes. The lifting apparatus includes spaced-apart tool bars and wheel lift device carried by the tool bars. The wheel lift device is movable along the tool bars and preferably are also movable transversely of the tool bars and are able to engage the wheels of the vehicle even when the vehicle is not aligned parallel to the tool bars. When the tool bars are raised, the wheel lift device causes the vehicle to be lifted. The underside of the vehicle is unobstructed to enable access to all portions of the vehicle or its components (e.g., cutting blades, etc.). The lifting apparatus preferably includes releasable locking members for preventing the tool bars from moving downwardly.

Abstract: An automotive lift system includes a longitudinal series of transverse pairs of left and right rigid lifting legs, neither any legs of said pairs of legs nor any longitudinally successive legs having any on-ground connection therebetween, each of the legs having a top and a bottom, each bottom of each leg having, pivotally secured to it, a planer base which is anchored upon an on-ground floor. The system also includes left and right longitudinal vehicle wheel support platforms, the platforms having a pivotal connection relative to the respective tops of each of the respective pairs of left and right rigid legs.

Abstract: A new apparatus for extracting water from product or sewage sludge on the spot is provided. It is characterized by a frame matched to the dimensions of a low loader and having lifting supports which can be pivoted in and out and which have multi-step vertical adjustability. Filter presses of substantially higher capacity than those on known apparatuses employing a semitrailer can be used.

Abstract: A lifting platform for motor vehicles consisting of a least one lifting cylinder arranged in a covered pit at whose upper end supporting elements for the motor vehicle are attached, a high-pressure unit for supplying pressurized oil to the lifting cylinder and a guide bushing for the lifting cylinder attached to supporting frame anchored in the foundation of the pit. A central rod mounted on the bottom of the pit projects into the lifting cylinder and is sealed with respect to the lower end of the lifting cylinder by a ring gasket and its upper end face forms a pressure face. In the inside wall of each guide bushing there is at least one lubricating channel which is in flow connection with the pressurized oil return line with each lowering stroke of the lifting cylinder or the lifting platform.

Abstract: A jack for railroad well cars has a frame comprising a central section which fits between the rails and the underside of the car frame. The central section spans the rails and extends somewhat beyond the sides of the car frame. The central frame section connects to a fixed, upright frame section at one end and a pivot section at the other end. The pivot section is movable between a horizontal setup position and a vertical operating position. A lifting beam is mounted on the frame and extends transversely to the car frame. Hydraulic actuators connected between the ends of the lifting beam and the frame are adapted to move the lifting beam between lowered and raised positions. A ratchet and pawl are provided on the upright and pivot frame sections to prevent unwanted lowering of the lifting beam.

Abstract: The invention relates to a hoist for motor vehicles, with at least two vertically displaceable columns having on their upper end a support surface for receiving the vehicle, where in a retracted state the columns are disposed below the ground in a pit and the support surface is located approximately at the level of a shop floor. In order to make do with a reduced depth of the pit while retaining the same lifting height of the columns, the columns comprise an interior, vertically displaceable lift element supporting a deflection roller for operation of a cable on its upper end. One end of the cable is attached fixed in place, while the other end of the cable is fastened to a support pipe with a support surface which is vertically displaceable in relation to the lift element, where a sleeve, displaceable in relation to the support pipe, is provided which acts as a telescopic guide when the column is extended.

Abstract: A hydraulic platform lift for use on trucks and truck trailers has two hydraulic cylinders, one on each side of a door. The cylinders are phasing cylinders in that one cylinder is larger than the other cylinder by a specific ratio. The cross-sectional area of the fluid in the rod end of the larger cylinder minus the area of the rod is equal to the cross-sectional area of the smaller cylinder. A connecting line interconnects the rod end of the large cylinder with the cap end of the small cylinder. Hydraulic fluid can be directed by a controller into the cap end of the large cylinder or the rod end of the small cylinder. For upward movement, hydraulic fluid is forced into the rod end of the small cylinder. This in turn forces hydraulic fluid through the connecting line into the rod end of the large cylinder, thereby raising both pistons.

Abstract: In a method for displacing forces, particularly loads (P), either a force (P) acting on a guide surface (23) is reduced by an opposing force and simultaneously displaced, or a pressing force (P) is caused to act on a guide surface (23) in order to produce a displacing force (P2). In order to reduce the frictional resistance of the force (P) on the base (A, B) on which it acts, this force can be reduced by an opposing force and the force then displaced. The opposing force is produced, for example, by a known self-guided membrane cell (20) or a piston. Part of the force is supported displaceably on a wedge surface (23). This method permits advantageous displacement of forces, particularly loads, in opposition to friction forces.

Abstract: An automotive lift system includes a number of longitudinal transverse pairs of left and right legs each of which legs, include a top and a bottom. Each bottom is pivotally stationed to a base which in turn is positioned upon a floor. The lift system eliminates the need for torsion bars and provides ease of front-to-back and left-to-right access beneath an automotive vehicle that has been elevated.

Abstract: A hydraulic platform and level correcting system used for a wide variety of lifting applications that require a steady, level lift in order to avoid damage to the lift and/or an object being lifted. The hydraulic platform is controlled by an electrohydraulic control system which includes a hydraulic pump under the control of an electric control circuit to provide the lifting force necessary for hydraulic platform operation as well as a device for automatically correcting the level of the hydraulic platform.

Abstract: A lift assembly adapted for large vehicles includes first and second lift platforms selectively raised and lowered relative to a base member. Fluid actuated support arms are interposed between the lift platforms and the base member to define a generally trapezoidal arrangement. Segmented bearings are interposed between opposite ends of the support arms and the lift platforms and base member to accommodate tolerance stackup. The lift assembly also includes a sensing assembly that determines if a height differential exists between the lift platforms. If a height differential is sensed, movement of one of the lift platforms is altered to correct the situation. If too great a differential is sensed, further movement of the platforms is terminated. A locking arrangement maintains the lift platforms elevated relative to the base member. A sensing arrangement determines whether the locking arrangement is properly oriented and whether the load is applied from the lift platforms.

Abstract: A tri-level parking apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a frame having a pair of spaced apart vertical stanchions. First and second parking platforms are disposed between the stanchions and can be slidably moved up or down along the stanchions. Piston/cylinder assemblies are provided for independently lifting the first parking platform from a lower position, to an intermediate position and ultimately to an uppermost position. Similarly, the piston/cylinder assemblies enable independent lifting of the lower platform from a lowermost position to the intermediate position.

Abstract: A mechanism for automatically fixing a slide plate mounted on a vehicle-body support plate of a lifting apparatus of a system for lifting a motor vehicle for repair thereof comprises a rack and a stopper which are capable of engaging each other to fix the slide plate to the first support plate, or vehicle-body support plate, of an upper lifting element of the lifting apparatus when the first support plate is moved to a lowest position relative to a second support plate, or wheels support plate, of a lower lifting element of the lifting apparatus. According to one embodiment of the invention, the rack may be connected to the slide plate, and the stopper provided in the second support plate. Alternatively, according to another embodiment of the invention, the rack may be connected to the second support plate, and the stopper connected to the slide plate.

Abstract: A portable lift for lifting motor vehicles comprises a lift arm (6) the arm being pivotally articulated and lowerable into a position between lateral parts of base frame (1) which form a drive-on ramp, with lateral support arms (7) mounted on its free ends, the arms being guided by a parallelogram guide (10) parallel to the plane of the ground. To pivot lift arm (6), a hydraulic cylinder and piston assembly (3) is used which is mounted at a distance from pivot axis (5) of lift arm (6) which, at the maximum operating height of support arms (7), forms a pivot angle (alpha) of the axis of cylinder and piston assembly (3) to the plane of the ground between 75 degrees and 105 degrees.

Abstract: A self-deploying stabilizing support jack is presented which stabilizes and positions a recreational vehicle or trailer. The support jack comprises a bracket, a two-way cylinder, lift arms, a stabilizing sleeve and several electrical warning devices and safety features. The lift arms and cylinder are attached to the bracket at separate, offset first and second points so that when the ram of the cylinder contacts the foot of the lift arm, the entire apparatus is raised to a horizontal position. A stabilizing sleeve attached to the lift and surrounding the cylinder stabilizes the device from lateral movement. An intermediate third pivot point in the lift arm helps reduce stress upon raising. Several signalling devices warn the operator when the support jack is in the deployed position. A safety circuit automatically raises any support jack that is not in the horizontal safety position should the ignition be turned to the "on" position.

Abstract: An apparatus is designed to rotate a vehicle by ninety degrees for repair of the under carriage of the vehicle and other parts accessible from the bottom. The preferred vehicle is a forklift, and a mast support is provided to be secured to the mast of the forklift. Wheel supports are provided which may be rotated out of engagement with the wheels when the vehicle is vertical to allow unobstructed access to the vehicle. Removable support bars may be used in place of the wheel supports to engage the bottom of the vehicle during rotation. The apparatus sits on a flat floor and does not require approach ramps or the like. The apparatus may be moved to any location and is symmetrical so that it may be placed against a wall on the left or right by a simple interchange of parts. A jib is provided which may be used to hoist heavy parts of the vehicle.

Abstract: A carrier platform transports motor vehicles to be manufactured through assembly, test and other work stations. The platform remains with the motor vehicle at the assembly, test or other work stations and enables free access to the underside of the floor-pan of the vehicle and to the contact areas of its wheels for checking and measuring loads that actually occur at these areas. Support plates on the platform for the wheels of the vehicle are fashioned so as to simultaneously function as safety devices during the testing procedure. When horizontally positioned the support plates engagingly support the four wheels of the vehicle. During certain tests these support plates are vertically positioned and function as safety devices.

Abstract: An apparatus for lifting tanks where several hydraulic jack assemblies are positioned adjacent to the external peripheral wall of the tank and, if the tank has large dimensions, additional hydraulic jack assemblies are positioned inside the tank. After the jack assemblies are secured to the tank structure, the lifting operation is begun. The jack assemblies provide the necessary lifting force from a substantial hydraulic pressure and relatively small displacement. The jack assemblies are inverted so that the housing is lifted while the rod stays stationary. After complete distension, log members are inserted below the lowermost end of the jack housing and the rod retracted. Then, an additional log member is inserted below the retracted rod and the lifting operation renewed.

Abstract: An attachment is set forth which can be removably attached to a standard vehicle lifting platform. The lifting platform attachment includes a scissors support formed from two parallel pairs of scissors. The attachment also includes a support plate having an air spring bellows arranged beneath it. The scissors support and air spring bellows are mounted on a base plate. The base plate may then be fixed on the driving track of a vehicle lifting platform. The support plate is stepped on both sides to permit the vehicle to drive onto the attachment.

Abstract: A portable automotive jack is provided having a generally triangular configuration defined by first and second pairs of pneumatic cylinders. Specifically, the cylinders of one of the pairs of are spaced apart from one another and straddle the cylinders of the other pair so that the pairs of cylinders define the legs of a triangle. A lift plate is mounted to the upper ends of the hydraulic cylinders at the apex of the triangle whereby actuation of the cylinders moves the lift plate relative to the base member to permit jacking of a vehicle therewith. The jacking assembly, by virtue of a common source of air pressure and flexible mounts, adjusts in angle and position to accommodate changes in angle of the vehicle as it is bieng jacked thus providing a device which has an inherent stability and relative insensitivity to the hardness and flatness of the jacking surface and the construction of modern cars.

Abstract: The low-pressure hoisting air cushion has an airtight chamber the walls of which (20) consist of a coated fabric which is elastic. Inserted into a hole (22) of the wall is a nozzle (24) of a valve. It consists of a tube socket accessible from the outside (26) and a ring-fastener (28) fitted internally. A compensation ring (34) is fitted between the ring-fastener (28) and the wall (20). It has a greater diameter than the ring-fastener (28) and is joined on one side to the ring-fastener (28) and to the wall on the other side (20) in such a way via a ring shaped joining area that there is created between both of them a circular shaped compensation zone (36) to which the compensation ring (34) is not attached on either side (FIG. 1).

Abstract: A fluid operated circuit for controlling the movement of pistons contained in the drive and idler cylinders of a conventional dual post vehicle lift assembly of the type wherein the cylinders are hydraulically connected in tandem so that movement of the idler cylinder piston is dependent upon movement of the drive cylinder piston and wherein the pistons, while operative to lift and lower movable article supporting structures, are not fixedly connected thereto.

Abstract: A vehicle lift of the type which is installed in a pit includes at least two vertically expanding and contracting jacks disposed in the pit in a mutually juxtaposed relation and each comprising a pair of vertically disposed parallel link mechanisms which can be vertically expanded and contracted together. A pair of rollers are provided on each jack. A pair of rails are provided at the bottom of the pit in that area thereof in which each jack is situated, and the rollers are rollably supported on the rails, respectively. A vehicle supporting table is horizontally supported on each jack. A hydraulic cylinder is provided on each jack and has a piston rod connected to the link mechanisms for expanding and contracting them and thereby the jack to thereby raise and lower the table. At least one of the jacks is provided with another pair of rollers supported rollably on the rails, and a system for moving the jack horizontally along the rails toward and away from the other jack.

Abstract: A self-deploying stabilizing support jack is presented which stabilizes and positions a recreational vehicle or trailer. The support jack comprises a bracket, a two-cylinder, lift arms and a stabilizing sleeve. The lift arms and cylinder are attached to the bracket at separate, offset first and second points so that when the ram of the cylinder contacts the foot of the lift arm, the entire apparatus is raised to a horizontal position. A stabilizing sleeve attached to the lift and surrounding the cylinder stabilizes the the device from lateral movement. An intermediate third pivot point in the lift arm helps reduce stress upon raising. Also provided is an automatically released pressure valve for the cylinder and a signalling device to warn the operator when the support jack is in the deployed position. A safety circuit also automatically raises any support jack that is not in the horizontal safety position should the ignition be turned to the "ON" position.