Extensible Patents (Class 280/638)
  • Patent number: 7055847
    Abstract: A collapsible support structure has pairs of leg members (17) pivotally joined intermediate their length in crossed fashion by a connection member (18) that is capable of sliding longitudinally with the pivotal joint as the leg members extend in a scissors—like manner to support an object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Inventors: Mark E. Miller, Joseph C. Miller
  • Patent number: 7055834
    Abstract: A stand for coolers or insulated ice chests can be readily assembled and disassembled for transport and storage without tools. Front and rear frame members of bent tubing are joined to side members of bent tubing by threaded fasteners and wing nuts. The stand may be provided with wheels. It may be provided with a first bottle rack that is suspended from its front member. A second bottle rack may be suspended from a side frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Inventors: Richar W. White, Robert J. White
  • Patent number: 6976696
    Abstract: An undercarriage for transporting a stretcher includes a support base, which is adapted for supporting a stretcher, a first pair of legs pivotally mounted to the support base, and a second pair of legs pivotally and slidably mounted to the support base. The first pair of legs is independently pivotal about the support base from the second pair of legs. In addition, a journaled member is provided at the distal ends of each leg. The undercarriage also includes a control system that is adapted to selectively pivot the first pair of legs to a stowed position and to selectively pivot the second pair of legs to a stowed position. The control system is further adapted to selectively lengthen or shorten the legs to adjust the height of the support base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Assignee: NeoMedTek
    Inventors: Jason M. O'Krangley, David M. Kruithoff
  • Patent number: 6923419
    Abstract: An adjustable platform assembly for raising an appliance includes a platform with various spaced vertical leg members. Each of the leg members has a first mounting aperture for fixing an appliance to the platform, and a second mounting aperture for fixing an adjustable caster to the leg member. A consumer can adjust the platform assembly to a desired height by altering the height of the caster members. A decorative faceplate is provided which removably attaches to the front of the platform assembly to give the appliance a built-in look.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Assignee: Maytag Corporation
    Inventors: Evelyn M. George, Mostafa Michael Khosropour
  • Patent number: 6902022
    Abstract: A tractor having a front end and a rear end adaptable for a variety of different environments. Methods related to the conversion of the tractor are also disclosed. In one embodiment, the invention includes a front wheel assembly that is removably attached to the front end of the tractor to facilitate adaptation of the tractor a various environments. Also, a steering actuator is removably attached to the front wheel assembly and fixedly attached to the chassis of the tractor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Society for Research and Initiatives (SRISTI)
    Inventor: Shri Bhanjibhai Mathukia
  • Patent number: 6894625
    Abstract: An aircraft ground power unit (GPU) is equipped with a device that warns personnel with a flashing light and a siren when the unsafe condition exists of the GPU being connected to both the tug and the aircraft at the same time. Similar devices can be used on other towed vehicles that can cause damage to vehicles or structures if towed away while still attached to the vehicle or structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Inventors: Timothy Grant Kozma, Joseph B. Justice
  • Patent number: 6892124
    Abstract: An activating portion on one section of an adjustable wheel assembly triggers a proximity switch on a vehicle such as a field sprayer to provide a signal indicative of wheel tread. The signal is sent to a controller which controls wheel tread adjustment. Two or more assemblies may be adjusted simultaneously reduce adjustment time. The operator control is located in the vehicle cab for entering wheel spacings, providing an indication of the actual spacing and individual wheel position, and providing error and warning messages. An interlock system prevents axle telescoping unless certain vehicle conditions are satisfied, such as the vehicle speed being below a preselected point and vehicle being in the field mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Richard Allen Humpal, Jack Conan Anderson
  • Patent number: 6830253
    Abstract: A equipment dolly for transporting sporting equipment to a desired location. The equipment dolly includes a frame assembly comprising a pair of stanchion members and a handle member. The handle member extends between an upper end of the stanchion members. The handle member is designed for being gripped by a hand of the user. The frame assembly is designed for receiving the sporting equipment whereby the frame assembly permits transportation of the sporting equipment by the user. Each of a plurality of wheels is rotatably coupled to one of the stanchion members. Each of the wheels is positioned opposite the handle member of the frame assembly. The wheels are designed for rolling across a support surface whereby the wheels are for facilitating transporting the frame assembly across the support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventors: Ben Porras, III, Shauna Porras
  • Patent number: 6793248
    Abstract: An electric cart chassis includes a front unit and a rear unit. The front unit is fastened to a front wheel assembly and is formed of at least two support rods and a locating rod. The rear unit is fastened to a rear wheel assembly and is formed of at least two sleeves and a locating sleeve. The front unit is adjustably fastened to the rear unit such that the two support rods are adjustably fastened to the two sleeves, and such that the locating rod is adjustably fastened to the locating sleeve in conjunction with a locating bolt which is put through a locating hole of the locating sleeve and one of a series of locating holes of the locating rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Genemax Medical Products Industry Corp.
    Inventor: Chung-Che Sung
  • Publication number: 20040051279
    Abstract: A mobile elevation chair apparatus includes trapezoidal shaped base that has a periphery defined by front and rear edges and side edges. The base has a lower surface fitted with at least to steerable casters as wheels and an upper surface. The base is wider at the rear edge compared to the front edge so the side edges form an acute angle. A telescoping piston is mounted to the upper surface of the base. A lever enables the piston to be elongated or shortened, the lever extending rearwardly from the piston. A chair is mounted to the top if the piston, the chair having a seat base and a seat back, the seat back portion being mounted to the piston. A plurality of wheels are mounted to the base including the front steerable casters that are mounted to the lower surface of the base at least partially at a position inside the periphery of the base and a pair of rear wheels mounted to the base at a position outside the periphery of the base. A brake mechanism is provided for braking at least one of the wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2002
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventors: William M. Grant, Paul Caronna
  • Patent number: 6705233
    Abstract: A paint wagon (10) has a base (22) having a plurality of wheels (28, 30) mounted in supporting relation thereto. A drop pin (32) is slidably mounted to the base. The drop pin (32) selectively engages with a conveyor (12) for translating the paint wagon (10) along a path. A plurality of slidably mounted mounting fixtures (26) are movable between a contracted position and an expanded position. An actuating assembly (24) slidably mounts the mounting fixtures to the base. The actuating assembly (24) has a longitudinal support (38) and a plurality of cars (52, 54, 56) in sliding engagement with the longitudinal support. The mounting fixtures (26) extend from the plurality of cars. A rotatably mounted pinion (70) drivingly engages a rack (84, 86) which is slidably mounted with the longitudinal support. The rack (84, 86) is connected to an outer car (56).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: Decoma International Corp.
    Inventors: Bradley Spiewak, Henry R. Draper
  • Publication number: 20030168832
    Abstract: A variable wheelbase personal mobility vehicle is disclosed comprising a front wheel assembly and a rear wheel assembly. A front wheel is pivotably mounted relative to the front wheel assembly for controlling the direction of movement of the personal mobility vehicle. Plural drive wheels are mounted relative to the rear wheel assembly for driving the personal mobility vehicle. A seat is connected to the rear wheel assembly for supporting an operator. A variable wheelbase mechanism varies the distance between the front wheel and the plural drive wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2003
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Applicant: Electric Mobility Corporation
    Inventors: Michael J. Flowers, Edward J. Hanker, Edward J. Dwyer, Lou Madonia, Mark J. Hoskin, Hugh C. McCall, Stephen Jarema
  • Patent number: 6612601
    Abstract: A boat wagon adapted to be pushed or moved along an underlying wagon supporting surface includes two legs and a legs interconnecting member. The horizontal distance between the legs can be adjusted. The legs interconnecting member is formed of a number of removable elements adapted to co-act with each other. The span between the legs is adapted for road transport by removing one or more of the removable elements. The legs can be adjusted to adapt to a second span for boat transport by fitting one or more of the removed elements to wagon related and leg associated sub-parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Inventor: Hans Ingmar Granlind
  • Publication number: 20030151231
    Abstract: A folding pallet cart comprises four corner adapters that lock on to respective corners of an ordinary wooden pallet. A foldable frame has four vertical posts that fit at the bottom into each of the four corner adapters. The posts has holes in them to support a system of wire-frame shelves at various parallel levels above the/pallet. The pieces can be disassembled and folded up for storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2003
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Michael J. Calleja
  • Patent number: 6601899
    Abstract: A multi-functional cargo bed liner assembly for a cargo bed of a vehicle includes a first side wall and a second side wall disposed in a transversely spaced relationship, and an integrally formed guide track in the first and second side walls. The cargo bed liner assembly also includes an end wall extending therebetween the first and second side walls at a first end, and a floor extending therebetween the first and second side walls. The cargo bed liner assembly further includes a movable divider panel supported within the guide track by a support rod, and extending transversely therebetween the first and second side walls, wherein the divider panel includes a positioning mechanism for fixedly locating the divider panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignee: PROJX
    Inventors: Lowell Kiester, Douglas Street
  • Patent number: 6575491
    Abstract: Described is a collapsible cart for transporting items from a first surface to a raised surface. The collapsible cart comprises a platform, for carrying items thereon, wherein the platform comprises a front edge and a back edge. A collapsible front leg is attached to the platform. The collapsible front leg comprises an front upper leg and a front lower leg. Connected to the front upper leg and to the front lower leg is a spring biased to rotate the front lower leg towards an extended position relative to the front upper leg. A front release mechanism persuades the collapsible front legs to be withdrawn towards the platform. A collapsible rear leg is also attached to the platform. The collapsible rear leg comprises a rear upper leg, a rear lower leg and a spring connected there between biased to rotate the rear lower leg towards an extended position relative to the rear upper leg. A rear release mechanism allows the collapsible rear leg to be withdrawn towards the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Inventor: Timothy J. Miller
  • Publication number: 20030098567
    Abstract: A collapsible tricycle for the use of young children has a front wheel, two rear wheels, a saddle, and a frame, to which the saddle is pivoted. The frame includes a front part, a stationary part secured to the front part, a rear part, and a connecting rod. The stationary part has two parallel walls at the rear portion; the front end of the saddle is pivotally connected to upper portions of the walls; the front portion of rear frame part is pivotally connected to the lower portions of the walls. The rear frame part has two parallel walls defining a space wider than the stationary part such that the stationary part can be partially received in the space when the tricycle is folded, allowing the folded tricycle to be relatively compact. The middle of the saddle is pivoted to the rear frame part. And, the connecting rod is pivoted to both the stationary part and the rear frame from two ends for preventing both from moving relative to each other when the tricycle is ridden.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2001
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Inventor: A-Chueh Chuang
  • Publication number: 20030080535
    Abstract: A two-wheel vehicle foldable to have a width equivalent to the width of a license number plate can be contained in a door, side walls, or a rear wall of a four-wheel vehicle. Handles and steps of the two-wheel vehicle can be folded so that the vehicle width becomes equivalent to the width of the license number plate. Accordingly, containing space on the four-wheel vehicle at the time of mounting the two-wheel vehicle can be made to be small. As a result, vehicle compartment space of the four-wheel vehicle can be secured, and the two-wheel vehicle can be easily mounted onto the four-wheel vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2002
    Publication date: May 1, 2003
    Inventors: Seiichi Kurohori, Hiromi Furuhashi, Masayoshi Orita, Tsutomu Harano
  • Patent number: 6530445
    Abstract: A variable wheelbase personal mobility vehicle is disclosed comprising a front wheel assembly and a rear wheel assembly. A front wheel is pivotably mounted relative to the front wheel assembly for controlling the direction of movement of the personal mobility vehicle. Plural drive wheels are mounted relative to the rear wheel assembly for driving the personal mobility vehicle. A seat is connected to the rear wheel assembly for supporting an operator. A variable wheelbase mechanism varies the distance between the front wheel and the plural drive wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Assignee: Electric Mobility Corporation
    Inventors: Michael J. Flowers, Edward J. Hanker, Jr., Edward J. Dwyer, Jr., Lou Madonia, Mark J. Hoskin, Hugh C. McCall, Stephen Jarema, III
  • Patent number: 6502657
    Abstract: The transformable vehicle comprises a central chassis assembly having first and second distal ends with an axis passing therebetween, a first wheel assembly mounted to the first distal end, and a second wheel assembly mounted to second distal end. A multifunction transformable vehicle comprising at least two configurational states: a stowed state and a transformed state. In the stowed state, the transformable vehicle comprises a compact structure suitable for storage, transport or deployment. During transition from the stowed state to the transformed state, the first and second wheel assemblies move longitudinally outward along the axis to reveal the central chassis assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter A. Kerrebrock, Robert Larsen
  • Patent number: 6474714
    Abstract: A convertible cargo body for a vehicle for allowing the user to convert cargo boxes to trailers depending upon the type of cargo being carried. The convertible cargo body for a vehicle includes a cargo body support assembly being adapted to be mounted upon a chassis of a vehicle; and also includes a cargo body assembly including a first box member being securely supported upon the cargo body support assembly and also including a second box member being hingedly attached to and removably disposed upon the first box member; and further includes a wheeled trailer assembly for supporting the second box member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Inventor: Ernest R. Stettner
  • Patent number: 6425591
    Abstract: A modular cart comprises a load carrying frame and a wheeled carriage supporting the load-carrying frame. The carriage includes a front carriage assembly pivotally coupled to a front of the frame and a rear carriage assembly pivotally coupled to a rear of the frame. The front and the rear carriage assemblies are substantially identical. Each carriage assembly comprises an axle pivotally coupled at a vertical midpoint axis to the load-carrying frame. The axle is pivotal about the vertical midpoint axis and is selectable between a first position pivotally fixed with respect to the load carrying frame and a second position freely pivotal about the axis. A caster wheel assembly is attached to each of the ends of the axle. The caster wheel assembly is pivotal about a vertical end axis and is selectable between a third position pivotally fixed with respect to the axle and a fourth position freely pivotal about the vertical end axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2002
    Inventor: Richard Ball
  • Patent number: 6419260
    Abstract: A wheelchair easy to move it wherein the burden imposed both on the user of the wheelchair and on a person who helps him is remarkably reduced. The wheelchair a chair body 5 with a seat 1 and armrests 3a, 3b, right and left large wheels 7a, 7b provided on right and left sides of the chair body, right and left front casters 9a, 9b provided in front of the chair body, each of the front casters being adapted to turn in different horizontal directions. The chair body is provided at the rear thereof with right and left rear casters 21a, 21b, each of the rear casters being adapted to turn in different horizontal directions, the position of each of the rear casters being vertically adjustable. The position of each of the large wheels is adjustable forward and backward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Inventor: Shigeru Kuroda
  • Publication number: 20020078634
    Abstract: A recreational vehicle is shown having an opening through one of the side walls to access the main room of the recreational vehicle. A slide out room is expandable through the opening, between a retracted and expanded position to increase the living space of the main room when in the expanded position. A ceiling member is positioned between the recreational vehicle and the slide out room to seal the main room when the slide out room is in the fully retracted position. A plurality of mechanisms are disclosed herein which changes the relative position of the ceiling member and a corresponding ceiling surface when the slide out room is in the retracted position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2001
    Publication date: June 27, 2002
    Inventors: Patrick W. McManus, Martin P. McManus
  • Patent number: 6409190
    Abstract: A skate cart includes a board with a rear wheel connected to a rear end of the board and a head tube connected to a front end of the board. A steerer tube rotatably extends through the head tube and a fork member is located on a lower end of the head tube. Two plates are respectively pivotably connected to two sides of the fork member and a front wheel is connected between the two plates. A spring is connected between the plate and the side of the fork member the same side of the front wheel. The front wheel together with the two plates move toward the head tube by compressing the springs so as to absorb vibration from the road.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Inventor: Shui-Te Tsai
  • Publication number: 20010045718
    Abstract: A multiple function job site work cart in which the basic component is a wheel-based cart having a base, two opposing sides perpendicular to the base, and capable of being rolled in a horizontal or vertical orientation. With the incorporation of additional components including dividers, steps, a door, frames, outriggers, stabilizing bars, brackets, and others, the cart can be configured as a materials cart, wheelbarrow, storage cart, scaffold, ladder, dolly, sheet support, and other structures useful in a work setting. When not in use, the components can be packed into or coupled to the car for storage and/or transport.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2001
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Inventor: Ron P. Boirum
  • Patent number: 6293579
    Abstract: A mobile rig on wheels with transverse motion, in particular a telescoping stacker, having a first axle mounted on a rigid vehicle frame and a second axle disposed transversely movably on the vehicle frame to describe a circular translation. Advantageously, the second axle is disposed on the vehicle frame by parallel links and the parallel links can be swivelled through vertical axes by swivel actuation device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Assignee: Karl Schaeff GmbH & Co Maschinenfabrik
    Inventor: Hans Schaeff
  • Patent number: 6247719
    Abstract: A trailer is provided for accommodating various sized watercraft thereon. The trailer includes a frame structure extending along the longitudinal axis and a wheel and axle assembly for supporting the frame structure above a supporting surface. First and second bunk elements are supported by the frame structure. The first bunk element is movable along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis to vary the distance between the bunk elements and is also movable along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the frame structure between a forward position and a rearward position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2001
    Assignee: Triton Corporation
    Inventors: Gary L. Youmans, Tony P. Priesgen
  • Patent number: 6206126
    Abstract: A carrier for lifting devices having a variable width track includes a base frame, a first wheel frame, a second wheel frame, at least four slide assemblies, at least two actuation devices, and at least four wheel assemblies. The first wheel frame is slidably attached to one side of the base frame with at least two of the slide assemblies. The second wheel frame is slidably attached to the other side of the base frame with at least two of the slide assemblies. At least one of the actuation devices moves the first wheel frame relative to the base frame. At least one of the actuation devices moves the second wheel frame relative to the base frame. At least two of the wheel assemblies are mounted to the first wheel frame and at least two of the wheel assemblies are mounted to the second wheel frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Thiermann Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel E. Thiermann, Franklin J. Bankenbush, Andrew M. Copp
  • Patent number: 6199894
    Abstract: An extendable truck frame includes extended frame rails and interconnecting members. One end of the extended rails includes a connection that can be received by and secured into the back end of truck frame. In one embodiment, the extended rails can be positioned either at the general level of the truck frame to essentially extend the truck frame in the same general plane as the truck frame, but alternatively can be secured to the truck frame at a different, for example lower, position. The extended frame is releasable by interconnecting mechanisms so that extended frame can be selectively used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Inventor: Leonard E. Anderson
  • Patent number: 6139045
    Abstract: A vehicle having a pair of front wheels coupled to a wheel assembly is provided. The wheel assembly includes a wheel-spacing mechanism, a pair of spaced-apart spindle assemblies, and a steering mechanism. The wheel-spacing mechanism includes a center axle tube, a pair of axle arms coupled to the center axle tube for axial telescoping movement relative to the center axle tube, and means for extending and retracting the axle arms relative to the center axle tube. Each of the pair of spaced-apart spindle assemblies includes a spindle shaft coupled to the respective axle arm for pivoting movement about a substantially vertical axis. Each wheel is coupled to the respective spindle shaft for rotation about a substantially horizontal wheel axis. The steering mechanism includes a pair of telescoping drive shafts and means for rotating each telescoping drive shaft about a horizontal pivot axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Land O' Lakes, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary A. Vandenbark, Kenneth E. Weddle
  • Patent number: 6065556
    Abstract: A variable wheel base vehicle includes a vehicle body having front end rear ends supporting body members one of which is capable of displacement relative to the other. Drive motors mounted to the vehicle body are linked to the body members. A carriage assembly including drive wheels provide support for the vehicle body. An extension assembly responsive to the drive motor is connected to at least one of the body members. Upon actuation of the drive motor, the extension assembly enables one body member to displace relative to the other body member to enable extension and retraction of the vehicle wheel base. Each body member includes at least one wheel of the carriage assembly and, as a result of displacement of one body member relative to the other body member, the displaced body member provides increased counterbalance in the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Assignee: Van William Concepts Pty. Ltd.
    Inventor: William Andrews
  • Patent number: 6036219
    Abstract: An expandable cart for transporting products. The cart is comprised of a plurality of parallel, telescoping tube assemblies, with the tube assemblies being mounted in header blocks for proper orientation of the tubes of the tube assemblies. The cart is mounted on a series of wheels and includes removable handles at either end for facilitating manipulation of the cart. Flexible containment sides extend around the handles for retaining products on the cart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Assignee: EZ Lode, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl F. Oefelein, David Wm. Beebe, Craig B. Doetzel
  • Patent number: 6014853
    Abstract: The present invention entails a pull-type tobacco harvester having a mainframe, a tongue projecting from the mainframe, a defoliating unit mounted on the mainframe, and a conveyor assembly disposed adjacent the defoliating unit for conveying defoliated tobacco leaves from the defoliator unit upwardly and rearwardly to where the defoliated leaves are dumped into a trailing trailer. Disposed on one side of the mainframe is a single wheel while mounted to the opposite side of the mainframe is a pair of tandem wheels. The pair of tandem wheels are disposed so as to generally track behind a tractor that pulls the tobacco harvester through the field. In addition, the defoliator unit mounted on the harvester is a knife-type defoliator that comprises a series of bars that include knife elements thereon for cutting leaves from stalks of tobacco passing through the defoliator unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Inventors: Charles E. Gregory, Sr., Charles E. Gregory, Jr., William A. Slade
  • Patent number: 5988657
    Abstract: A multipurpose suitcase dimensioned and configured to be allowed into a passenger airplane as carry-on luggage. The suitcase includes a base compartment and a movable upper compartment. The suitcase can be quickly reconfigured to form a seat on which a child can be seated. A harness secures the child in the seat. The invention permits a parent to transport an infant or toddler easily through a busy airport, together with luggage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Inventor: Robert R. Henkel
  • Patent number: 5899467
    Abstract: A multipurpose suitcase dimensioned and configured to be allowed into a passenger airplane as carry-on luggage. The suitcase includes a base compartment and a movable upper compartment. The suitcase can be quickly reconfigured to form a seat on which a child can be seated. A harness secures the child in the seat. The invention permits a parent to transport an infant or toddler easily through a busy airport, together with luggage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1999
    Inventor: Robert R. Henkel
  • Patent number: 5879021
    Abstract: A painting wagon carries a plurality of components to be painted through a painting facility. The wagon includes a component supporting assembly having a plurality of opposed pairs of component mounting pins fixed thereto. The component supporting assembly is supported by a base structure having wheels which permit the painting wagon to be translated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Assignee: Decoma International Inc.
    Inventor: Gerd R. Papendick
  • Patent number: 5797612
    Abstract: A carrier for hockey equipment includes a generally box-shaped container body which is moulded in a high-impact plastic material, and has a pair of wheels at its bottom rear edge. Clamps are provided on the back face of the container for frictionally retaining a pair of hockey sticks that can be used to manipulate the carrier on its wheels. The container has doors at the front, a lower one of which can be folded down to form a platform on which a hockey player can stand while changing. An upper door opens laterally. The two doors provide access to a number of wire baskets within the container body, for accommodating hockey equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Inventor: Aldo Buccioni
  • Patent number: 5772233
    Abstract: A painting wagon carries a plurality of components to be painted through a painting facility. The wagon includes a component supporting assembly having a plurality of opposed pairs of component mounting pins fixed thereto. The component supporting assembly is supported by a base structure having wheels which permit the painting wagon to be translated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Assignee: Decoma International Inc.
    Inventor: Gerd R. Papendick
  • Patent number: 5765871
    Abstract: A tricycle has a fourth and rear supporting wheel at a distance from and a position above the usual rear tricycle wheels so that the tricycle may be tipped to raise to simulate a wheelie. The distance between the usual rear tricycle wheels and the front wheel is adjustable, so that the maximum wheelie angle may be selected according to the child's age and proficiency. The seat may be moved to make it easier or more difficult to tip the tricycle when the child shifts his body and, therefore, the center of gravity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Assignee: Empire Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis Wyman, David Wyman, Lawrence Passick
  • Patent number: 5743545
    Abstract: A wheelchair with two facing, interconnected, adjustable sideframes having fit thereto a seat, backrest, driving wheels and guide wheels is described. The wheelchair is characterized in that each sideframe has two rigid frame parts, which are adjustably interconnected in the longitudinal direction of the wheelchair by elongated frame sections. On one rigid frame part of each sideframe can be fit one of the driving wheels and on the other rigid frame part of each sideframe one of the guide wheels. The wheelchair frame is readily longitudinally adjustable. Simultaneously with the adjustment of the seat position, there is an adjustment of the wheels so that an optimum weight distribution over the wheelchair wheels is maintained. The frame has an extremely high rigidity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Assignee: Orthopedia GmbH
    Inventors: Karl-Heinz Kunze, Peter Mackert
  • Patent number: 5678838
    Abstract: A roadable semitrailer made up of individual trailers each having a trailer frame supported on spaced apart road wheels and a towbar for towing each trailer as a separate trailer unit. Each towbar is connected to the trailer frame by opposed brace members which may be reconnected to the towbar at spaced apart points to provide for moving the towbar between a substantially normal working position with respect to the axis of rotation of the wheels and an inclined working position for connection to a dual coupler for operating the trailer units side by side as a dual trailer. Alternatively, the individual trailer towbars may be removed and replaced by a common towbar for both trailers or a dual trailer towbar with spaced couplers may be interposed between a tow vehicle and the couplers of the separate trailer units. Transverse removable beams are adapted to interconnect the frames of each trailer unit when the trailer units are disposed side by side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1997
    Inventor: John R. Taylor
  • Patent number: 5647688
    Abstract: A conventional telescoping frame on a paving tractor is provided with fixed male extension members for insertion to and attachment with a telescoping frame member. The conventional telescoping frame includes paired forward and paired rear side-by-side female tube members. Each forward and rear tube member conventionally acts for the telescoping support of male extension members which attach directly to the cylinder and crawler via a side bolster. Within the limits of expansion, the male extension members co-acting with clamps acting through the female tube members provide for both movement of the point of crawler support and expansion of the paving width of the tractor frame. Into this combination, extenders are added for attachment to the supported end of the male extension members interior of the female telescoping members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1997
    Assignee: Guntert & Zimmerman Const. Div., Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald M. Guntert, William R. Cape
  • Patent number: 5638908
    Abstract: An apparatus for adjusting spacing between a pair of crawler tracks of a working vehicle such as a backhoe. This apparatus is capable of moving the crawler tracks independently of each other. When one of the crawler tracks is moved laterally outwardly of the vehicle, the other may be maintained in an inward position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1997
    Assignee: Kubota Corporation
    Inventors: Masao Masumoto, Shizuo Shimoie
  • Patent number: 5540292
    Abstract: Pneumatically actuated horizontal drilling apparatus includes a base frame with a plurality of horizontally extending drills adjustably secured thereto, and the base frame and the drills are pneumatically actuated on a selective basis. Horizontal movement of the apparatus is accomplished by a pneumatic motor, and movement of the drills, both outward from the apparatus for drilling, and inward from the work for retraction, as well as rotation of the drills themselves, is also accomplished pneumatically and selectively. The drill apparatus is maintained at a predetermined distance from the work while drilling operations are taking place and while horizontal movement of the apparatus is taking place by means of canted wheels rotating in the vertical plane and by horizontally rotating wheels disposed against the work to be drilled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 30, 1996
    Inventor: Robert N. Behrens
  • Patent number: 5501500
    Abstract: An elongated plate, shaped to fit within a pick up truck bed, extends past the end of a opened tailgate on the truck. The plate serves to extend the usable length of the truck bed. The plate is supported at a front end by two stabilizer bars, telescoping adjustable tubular supports, which extend from the forward sides of the plate up to the inner lip of the truck bed. The rear of the plate is supported by an undercarriage which is attached to the bumper by a speed connection, which locks the undercarriage to the truck bumper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1996
    Inventor: Paul W. Cannon
  • Patent number: 5498011
    Abstract: A self contained portable device for use on the roof of a building for retrieving a lifeline from along the side of the building. A motor and drum drive assembly is mounted on a movable cart. An adjustable davit arm is pivotally mounted on the cart and is adapted to extend over the edge of the roof. The lifeline extends around a sheave mounted on the outer end of the davit arm and through a rope grab clamp and then about the take-up drum of the drive assembly. The davit arm is formed by telescopically joined tubular arm sections. The motor is controlled by a foot operated switch for rotating the drum to retrieve the lifeline. A safety line is adapted to secure the cart to rigid structure on the roof in addition to a wheel brake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1996
    Assignee: American Safety Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Ashraf N. Kilada, Michael J. Burlingame, Steven D. Belaney
  • Patent number: 5489114
    Abstract: A tie rod extendable and retractable telescopic axle assembly wherein a pair of axle beams are slidably mounted in a box beam integral with a vehicle chassis. Steering linkage and associated wheel assemblies are mounted on the outer ends of the axle beams, and the inner ends of the axle beam within the box beam are telescopically mounted relative to each other which provides an increased wheel base when the axle beam are moved outwardly of the box beam. A hydraulic cylinder and piston rod assembly is mounted between the box beam and wheel assemblies so that the hydraulic cylinder and rod assembly function not only as an actuator for extending and retracting the axle beams but also as a tie rod for the wheel assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1996
    Assignee: Kidde Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Wayne L. Ward, Robert D. Backer, Jeffrey L. Spidel, Donald C. Hade, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5489113
    Abstract: A tie rod assembly for a steering wheel structure for an agricultural vehicle such as a row crop applicator uses hydraulic cylinders to set the track width of the vehicle. The track width may be modulated between a minimum and a maximum track setting and modified until a desired track width is achieved while the vehicle is in motion and negotiating a turn without affecting toe-in settings. Toe-in settings are maintained by a closed loop series hydraulic system which further has the capability to reinitialize any toe-in setting to a preset condition in the event any hydraulic cylinder experiences cylinder drift.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1996
    Assignee: Ag-Chem Equipment Company, Inc.
    Inventor: David H. Torborg
  • Patent number: 5468008
    Abstract: A low deck trailer comprising of a rigid frame adapted to be towed by a motor vehicle, the frame having a front, back and sides with upper and lower surface. Tires are secured to and disposed under the frame, each tire having a diameter of between about 14 and 15 inches with its center beneath the frame and its upper extent beneath the upper surface of the frame, the tires being located closer to the rear end than the front end. An axle has two ends coupled beneath the sides of each end having a tire coupled thereto the frame for supporting the axle. A step has a horizontal long leg coupled to the rear end of the frame extending away from the frame at an elevation beneath the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1995
    Inventor: Michael R. Hecht