Static-type Antiskid Counter Weights Patents (Class 280/759)
  • Patent number: 11795657
    Abstract: A counterweight mounting device, which is installed on a frame supporting a counterweight, includes a first link of which a lower end is coupled to the frame so that the first link is rotatable about a first hinge shaft, a second link including a slot guide into which a second hinge shaft coupled to an upper end of the first link is inserted and in which the second hinge shaft slides, a hydraulic cylinder of which a lower end is coupled to the frame so that the hydraulic cylinder is rotatable about a cylinder rotation shaft and an upper end is coupled to the second hinge shaft and rotates the first link, and a connection member installed on an upper end of the second link and connected to the counterweight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Assignee: HD HYUNDAI CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jin Woo Son, Min Seok Kim
  • Patent number: 11313101
    Abstract: A cover mounting bracket (16) is provided on an upper side of a left weight part (11) and a right weight part (12) constituting a counterweight (10). The cover mounting bracket (16) is formed as a U-shaped frame with the counterweight (10) side open by a left extending member (17) extending forward from the upper side of the left weight part (11), a right extending member (18) extending forward from the upper side of the right weight part (12), and a connecting member (19) connecting the front side of the left extending member (17) and the front side of the right extending member (18). A prime mover cover (28) is supported on the connecting member (19) of the cover mounting bracket (16) rotatably in a vertical direction through a hinge (31). The prime mover cover (28) is moved between an open position where an inspection opening (15) of the counterweight (10) is opened and a closed position where the inspection opening (15) is closed around the hinge (31).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2022
    Assignee: Hitachi Construction Machinery Tierra Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yuuki Umizaki, Makoto Motozu
  • Patent number: 11059704
    Abstract: A counterweight device including a base plate having a mounted counterweight, a hydraulic cylinder that raises/lowers the counterweight mounted on the base plate, a detachable frame connecting the base plate and a cylinder rod of the hydraulic cylinder, a first pin pivotably supporting the detachable frame with respect to the cylinder rod, a guide coupling portion guiding a free end side of the detachable frame to the rear end portion side of a turning frame in response to a stretching/shrinking state of the cylinder rod, and coupled to the turning frame below an upper end of the rear end portion, and a rail (guide member) guiding the free end side of the detachable frame in a direction parallel to a stretching/shrinking direction of the cylinder rod. The mounting table and the hydraulic cylinder may be supported by a rear end portion of a machine body frame of a construction machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2021
    Assignee: SUMITOMO HEAVY INDUSTRIES CONSTRUCTION CRANES CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Kazunori Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 11000869
    Abstract: Some implementations can include a zero turn radius utility vehicle that is operated in a standing position by an operator using foot controls provided on the utility vehicle. Accordingly, the operator's hands are free to operate handheld equipment (e.g., a line trimmer, edger, blower, etc.) while the operator controls the utility vehicle via the foot controls. Further, the utility vehicle may have a single third wheel (and no mower deck or other deck or protrusion) extending from the front of the vehicle frame so as to minimize any protrusions to the front of the vehicle, which can permit the operator to work on the ground in front of the utility vehicle using handheld equipment without interference from a mower deck, while remaining in a standing position on the utility vehicle and being able to simultaneously control the utility vehicle (via foot controls) and perform work with handheld equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2021
    Inventor: David Allan Reeves
  • Patent number: 10933928
    Abstract: A support device, to be hooked up to a hitching device of a tractor: the support device includes a chassis 10 as a machine-welded metal structure which is fixed at 20 to the hitching device, and a platform extending cantilevered relative to the fixing device, the platform has an upper side 16 equipped at 160 to pre-position and center a box 40 to be supported on the platform, and a lower side 19 including at least one accommodating housing 191, 192 for cooperating with a corresponding protuberance 51, 52 of an add-on weight 50, intended to be supported under the platform to provide an anchoring in the shape of a “dovetail” type connection extending in the longitudinal direction substantially parallel to the direction of travel of the tractor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2021
    Inventor: Joseph Thoonsen
  • Patent number: 10843908
    Abstract: The invention relates to a tower crane with a crane tower and a jib mounted thereon as well as a counter-jib, wherein the length of the counter-jib is defined by the number of the counterweights received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2020
    Assignee: LIEBHERR-WERK BIBERACH GMBH
    Inventor: Thomas Herse
  • Patent number: 10822212
    Abstract: A system and method for connecting a removable counterweight system to a crane including a lower assembly adapted to be connected to the counterweight system, an upper assembly adapted to be mounted to the crane, and a latch block assembly mounted to the upper assembly. The latch block assembly includes a plurality of blocks cooperating together to form a central counterbore for receiving a stud therein. The blocks are mounted within the upper assembly by at least one axle to allow for rotation of the blocks. A distal end of the stud is removably connected to the latch block assembly to attach the counterweight system to the crane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2020
    Assignee: Altec Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: William Baldwin Dodge, IV, Johnson X. Miles
  • Patent number: 10251344
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a dampening system useful for reducing the shimmying or movement of caster on suspension systems of harvesters, such as self-propelled windrowers. The suspension system utilizes hydraulic cylinders on harvesters which are operably linked to the caster and that respond to movement of the caster and/or caster wheel during operation of the harvester in a high-speed operable mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2019
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey B. Fay, II, Keith D. Myers, Nicholas Gregory
  • Patent number: 10059292
    Abstract: In an unmanned carrier (100) including a grating-shaped bumper (10) having elasticity and an LRF (15) having a light-emitting unit and a light-receiving unit, a common processing system performs first detection processing that detects existence of an obstruction based on light applied from the light-emitting unit to a surrounding irradiated object and reflected from the irradiated object and second detection processing that detects contact of the obstruction with the unmanned carrier (100) by determining, based on light applied from the light-emitting unit to the grating-shaped bumper (10) and reflected from the grating-shaped bumper (10), presence or absence of deformation of the grating-shaped bumper (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2018
    Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tohru Kuga, Masaru Ogawa
  • Patent number: 9855838
    Abstract: An engine exhaust system is accommodated in a counterweight portion while minimizing a change in an existing arrangement of an engine, a radiator, a radiator fan, and the counterweight portion. A body has a work device provided at the front and the counterweight portion at the rear. A ventilation path provided in the counterweight portion includes an elevated part formed between a bottom of a front portion and a bottom of a rear portion. An exhaust gas purification device and a muffler, both having a tube-like outer shape, are disposed in the rear portion of the ventilation path so as to be positioned one above the other with the purification device lying above the muffler. Pipes, which extend straight respectively from an end circumferential surface of the purification device and an end circumferential surface of the muffler toward each other, are connected via flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Logisnext Co., LTD.
    Inventors: Jun Kawazoe, Syunta Takahashi
  • Patent number: 9623918
    Abstract: There is provided an industrial vehicle including a frame and a counterweight connected to a rear part of the frame. The frame includes a frame body and an upright wall that extends upward from the frame body. The counterweight is fastened to the upright wall by a bolt. The counterweight has an engaging portion to cover part of the upright wall and engage with the upright wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Assignee: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOYOTA JIDOSHOKKI
    Inventors: Fumihiro Fukatsu, Takaaki Takenaka
  • Publication number: 20150097362
    Abstract: A top link for a tractor front counterweight support linkage. The link is a fixed length elongate body having at a first end a pivoting connection with a chassis of the tractor and at a second end a slot to slidably receive an attachment bolt connectable to a tractor front counterweight. The link further includes a mechanism to selectively permit or prevent sliding movement of an attachment bolt received in the slot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2014
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Inventors: Georg JUTZ, Tassilo Schulze, Matthias Gwosdz
  • Patent number: 8979125
    Abstract: On a rear part side of a revolving frame (5) constituting an upper revolving structure (3), a counterweight (7) holding weight balance with a working mechanism (4) is provided, and on the front side of the counterweight (7), an engine (9) and an exhaust gas post-treatment device (21) for applying purification treatment to an exhaust gas of the engine (9) are provided. The exhaust gas post-treatment device (21) is configured by connecting a PM trapping filter device (22) and an NOx purifying device (23), and the PM trapping filter device (22) is mounted on the engine (9), while the NOx purifying device (23) is mounted on the counterweight (7). When the counterweight (7) is to be removed from the revolving frame (5), the NOx purifying device (23) is supported by a treatment device support bracket (26) mounted on the engine (9). As a result, the counterweight (7) can be removed while the PM trapping filter device (22) and the NOx purifying device (23) are connected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kensuke Sato, Tsuyoshi Nakamura, Takahiro Kobayashi, Hiroyuki Azuma
  • Patent number: 8960460
    Abstract: A counterweight block apparatus includes a pair of interconnecting counterweight blocks having top and bottom surfaces, the counterweight blocks forming a plane of interconnection along adjacent sides thereof; and a shear bar releasably secured between the adjacent sides of the interconnecting counterweight blocks, generally perpendicular to the plane of interconnection, to provide resistance to relative vertical movement of the interconnecting counterweight blocks along the plane of interconnection. In another aspect, each counterweight block includes in at least one side thereof an indentation from a top of the counterweight block to a depth more shallow than the thickness of the counterweight block, the indentation defining a lip for hand grabbing. An aperture may be formed through the rest of the thickness of the counterweigh block at each indentation, wherein a securing strap can be run through each aperture of a stacked plurality of counterweight blocks to secure them to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Manitowoc Crane Companies, LLC
    Inventors: Trevor D. Mentink, William J. O'Neil
  • Patent number: 8925964
    Abstract: A ballast assembly for a work vehicle includes a ballast weight having a central groove. Two pairs of coupling pins extend across the central groove. A pair of support rods are attached to an underside of a frame part of the vehicle. The assembly also includes a pair of ballast bracket, each of which is releasably coupled to a corresponding pair of the coupling pins. The assembly also includes a pair of links, each having an end pivotally coupled to a corresponding ballast bracket, and having a body with a slot which slidably receives a corresponding support rod. A hydraulic cylinder has a first end pivotally coupled to one of the links and a second end pivotally coupled to the frame part. Each ballast bracket includes a latch member which releasably holds the ballast bracket to the corresponding pair of coupling pins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Steven A. Duppong, Bryan K. Buerkle, Robert David Andrew Wolsky, Lucas Aaron Laudenbach, James Gregory Johnson
  • Patent number: 8662460
    Abstract: A weight adapter bracket is provided for a drawbar support frame having a cylinder coupling member for coupling to a hydraulic cylinder. The coupling member has a slot for removably receiving an end of the cylinder. The adapter bracket includes a lug which extends from a flange. The lug is removably receivable by the coupling member, and the flange is adapted to engage and support a weight. A coupling bore extends through the lug and bracket bores extend through the coupling member. A coupling pin is insertable through the coupling bore and the bracket bores and to releasably hold the bracket in the coupling member. A pin bore extends vertically through the bracket, and a further coupling pin is removably insertable through the pin bore. The further coupling pin is adapted to engage a weight which is mounted on the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Benjamin J. Heimbuch, Deepak Bhoir
  • Patent number: 8573646
    Abstract: A mounting structure is provided for an NOx reduction system for a hydraulic excavator. The NOx reduction system includes a PM collection filter to be arranged in an exhaust passage of an engine to collect suspended particulate matter in exhaust gas from the engine, a urea SCR catalyst for reducing and purifying nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gas from the engine, a urea water spay device for spraying a urea water into the exhaust passage of the engine, a urea water feeder for feeding the urea water to the urea water spray device, and a urea water storage tank for storing therein the urea water to be guided to the urea water feeder. In the mounting structure, the counterweight is provided with a recessed section formed therein, the urea SCR catalyst is arranged in the recessed section, and the PM collection filter is arranged in the engine compartment. The urea SCR catalyst and PM collection filter are arranged to form an “L” pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shohei Kamiya
  • Patent number: 8523226
    Abstract: Disclosed is a counterweight which is filled with a heavy-weight concrete containing, instead of currently used iron ores, a heavy-weight aggregate that scarcely causes the material segregation from cement paste and which can be produced at a low cost and is effectively enhanced in the filling factor of heavy-weight concrete into a case. A counterweight 6 comprises a case 62 and heavy-weight concrete filled therein, wherein the heavy-weight concrete contains a heavy-weight fine aggregate containing 20 mass % or more of aggregate particles having particle diameters of less than 0.15 mm and 20 mass % or more of aggregate particles having particle diameters of 2.5 mm to less than 5 mm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventors: Minoru Yoshimoto, Yasuhide Higo, Eichi Manabe, Wataru Kataoka, Kazuya Kuriyama
  • Patent number: 8434787
    Abstract: A counterweight attachment and removal system includes a machine mounting bracket and a link having two spaced apart arms. A proximal end of the link is pivotably coupled with the machine mounting bracket. A rotate cylinder has a proximal end pivotably coupled with the machine mounting bracket and a distal end pivotably coupled with a distal end of the link. A slide cylinder has a proximal end pivotably coupled with the link and a distal end pivotably coupled with a lift pin. The lift pin is positioned through slots defined by the two spaced apart arms. The counterweight attachment and removal system includes a first configuration in which the link is pivoted away from the machine mounting bracket, the rotate cylinder is retracted, the slide cylinder is extended, and the lift pin is positioned through distal portions of the slots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Praveen Halepatali, Ha-Rok Bae, Kazushige Okamoto, Hiroaki Ando, Yozo Nakamoto, Chris Ha
  • Patent number: 8430427
    Abstract: An improved counterweight apparatus for vehicles includes a counterweight support structure, a set of separately installable and removable counterweights and a retaining plate. Each counterweight is shaped to be received by the counterweight support structure and each counterweight has at least one retaining plate surface. The retaining plate is retained adjacent to the counterweight support structure and can be moved between a retracted position and an advanced position. The retaining plate has a first surface located to register with the retaining plate surface of each counterweight. When a counterweight is placed in the counterweight support structure and the retaining plate is moved to the advanced position, the first surface of the retaining plate engages the retaining plate surface of the counterweight to secure the counterweight support structure. A counterweight can be removed from the counterweight support structure if the retaining plate is moved to the retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Excel Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Gaeddert, Derek Jordan Christophel
  • Patent number: 8419064
    Abstract: An apparatus for adding weight to a work vehicle includes a receptacle and at least one arm projecting from the receptacle. The receptacle and the at least one arm are configured to receive weights. The apparatus for adding weight to a work vehicle also includes at least one connecting point configured to attach the apparatus to a three-point hitch of the work vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations, LLC
    Inventor: Edward N Erhardt
  • Patent number: 8414052
    Abstract: Various enhancements to the capabilities of vehicles in general, and particularly light-duty utility vehicles, which can advantageously enhance the cargo-carrying capabilities of such vehicles. The present invention provides a cargo bed insert, as well as an insert system, for removable attachment to a vehicle's existing cargo box. Improvement to a light-duty utility vehicle, where the improvement is in the form of a cargo box for the vehicle which includes one or more features of the described cargo bed insert and/or system is disclosed. The invention contemplates methods for enhancing the cargo-carrying capability of a light-duty utility vehicle. In particular, methods for enhancing the cargo-carrying capacity of such a vehicle beyond a manufacturers specified cargo weight capacity are provided. Lastly, the invention includes a mounting assembly for a removable attachment to a vehicle's frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Vertanen Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Vertanen
  • Patent number: 8201849
    Abstract: A balancing system for an agricultural vehicle includes a balance weight which has take-up pins at its sides. The pins are oriented coaxially to a common pivot axis so that the balancing weight can be taken up by the lower links of a three point implement hitch. When the balance weight has been taken up, it can be moved from a position of the center of gravity (S) of the balance weight close to the vehicle to a position distant from the vehicle. In order to attain a balance as optimal as possible, the position of the center of gravity of the balance weight in its position close to the vehicle is located below the pivot axis. Pivoting devices are provided so that the balance weight can be pivoted about the pivot axis so that it can also be brought from a position close to the vehicle to a position distant from the vehicle, where the balance weight occupies a lower position of the center of gravity in the position close to the vehicle than in the position distant from the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Wolfgang Bauer, Paul R. Smith
  • Patent number: 8186716
    Abstract: Modular weight systems for improving tire traction of automobiles on road surfaces affected by inclement weather are disclosed. The modular weight systems include a plurality of tiles that are configured to releasably mate to one another, and to fit within the cargo space of a vehicle without significantly reducing utility or becoming dislodged during movement. The tiles generally weigh between twenty and two-hundred pounds each, and they may be filled or doped with heavy filler materials, such as sand, stone or shot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Inventor: Michael R. Connolly
  • Patent number: 8136839
    Abstract: An apparatus for providing counterweight to a vehicle on an inclined surface. In one embodiment, a control unit may engage a motor, which rotates a weight such that it is positioned to act as a counterweight for a vehicle on an inclined surface. In another embodiment, when an inclinometer detects the vehicle is positioned on an inclined surface, logic circuitry engages motor, causing a weight to rotate to a position such that it acts as a counterweight for the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Inventor: David Bourn
  • Patent number: 8118326
    Abstract: Coupling systems and methods enable adjustable utilization of counterweights and other components on vehicles, such as riding lawn mowers. A mounting bracket and pivoting locking plate are operable to releasably secure a component, such as a counterweight, to a vehicle without the use of tools. Responsive to insertion of the component into the mounting bracket, the locking plate pivots to secure the mounting bracket to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Husqvarna Professional Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Nickolas T. Moore
  • Publication number: 20120007349
    Abstract: Coupling systems and methods enable adjustable utilization of counterweights and other components on vehicles, such as riding lawn mowers. A mounting bracket and pivoting locking plate are operable to releasably secure a component, such as a counterweight, to a vehicle without the use of tools. Responsive to insertion of the component into the mounting bracket, the locking plate pivots to secure the mounting bracket to the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Applicant: HUSQVARNA PROFESSIONAL PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: Nickolas T. Moore
  • Publication number: 20110308870
    Abstract: A flat plate nose frame design for a tractor in which a thick, flat structural plate is connected to and forwardly extends from the conventional frame rails of the tractor. The flat plate nose frame design increases vertical clearance under the hood without raising the hood height or reducing ground clearance. The nose plate is contoured to match the exterior contours of the tractor grill and hood eliminating the need for a separate aesthetic component covering the nose plate. The nose plate features a pair of vertically aligned short-height frame plates extending forwardly along the axis from the deep-section frame rails to increase strength in the flat nose plate without significantly increasing vertical height of the nose plate assembly. The flat plate nose frame is capable of withstanding operational loads as well as supporting a weight package or front-mounted implements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2010
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Inventors: John T. Rasset, Russell V. Stoltman, David S. Booth, Bryan J. Garberg, Carl J. Hagele, Chad A. Bautz, Landon J. Fries
  • Publication number: 20110266783
    Abstract: An apparatus for adding weight to a work vehicle includes a receptacle and at least one arm projecting from the receptacle. The receptacle and the at least one arm are configured to receive weights. The apparatus for adding weight to a work vehicle also includes at least one connecting point configured to attach the apparatus to a three-point hitch of the work vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2010
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Applicant: BRIDGESTONE AMERICAS TIRE OPERATIONS, LLC
    Inventor: Edward N. Erhardt
  • Patent number: 8011692
    Abstract: A system to provide ballast weight and to secure accessories on a vehicle load bed includes a plurality of hollow planks placed on the load bed adjacent to each other with end edges of the planks substantially aligned with each other and with side edges of the planks adjacent to each other such that top surfaces of the planks form a substantially flat load surface. At least one plank includes a filling orifice with a removable cap to allow filling with ballast. Recesses at corners of the planks are configured to form a substantially horizontally oriented lobe on each corner of the planks, and adjacent planks are connected at right and left ends thereof by a clip extending into the corresponding recesses of the adjacent planks, and fastened to the lobes on the adjacent planks. At least one clip is fastened to the load bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Bourgault Industries Ltd.
    Inventor: Nolan Friesen
  • Patent number: 7971906
    Abstract: Device for facilitating the control of the weighting of an agricultural tractor and for improving its productivity, includes a support member (A) designed to run transversely to the direction of travel of the tractor, this support member having a central part with a member (B) for coupling to a front or rear three-point lift of the tractor and, on each side of this central part, a lateral extension (Aa, Ab) equipped with a unit of attachment (Ea, Eb) of a weight, a load or a tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: Hubert Defrancq
  • Patent number: 7841423
    Abstract: A road grader having the components or assemblies of a rear counterweight, lights and a bumper. This rear frame should consist of few individual parts, render possible a simple assembly for the rear counterpoise weight and offer sufficient options for building on different pieces of rear-mounted equipment. That is achieved if the bumper and the rear counterweight consist of a rear end plate vertically aligned and extending across the entire width of the grader, which represents the rearmost part of the rear frame and onto which the lighting is attached in the region of its outer ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: CNH Baumaschinen GmbH
    Inventors: Jurgen Damm, Harald Schwartz
  • Patent number: 7717486
    Abstract: A truck bed accessory for accommodating weights and stored articles. At least one panel is adapted to be situated between the wheel wells of the truck and over the rear axle of the truck. A receptacle is defined within the interior of the main panel over the rear axle. A weight holder for disposition in the receptacle includes a plurality of weight receiver bins adapted to secure weights therein so that the weight over the rear axle can be varied to increase traction. When the weight holder is not in use, the accessory can store other articles for covered transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Inventor: Shawn P. Kokladas
  • Publication number: 20100059976
    Abstract: Device for facilitating the control of the weighting of an agricultural tractor and for improving its productivity, includes a support member (A) designed to run transversely to the direction of travel of the tractor, this support member having a central part with a member (B) for coupling to a front or rear three-point lift of the tractor and, on each side of this central part, a lateral extension (Aa, Ab) equipped with a unit of attachment (Ea, Eb) of a weight, a load or a tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2007
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Hubert DEFRANCQ
  • Patent number: 7669898
    Abstract: A proximal portion of a first link is pivotally supported by a rear end portion of a frame. A second support shaft is provided in a distal portion of the first link. A first cylinder and a second link to which a counterweight is connected are supported by the second support shaft. A second cylinder is connected to the second link. Through pivoting of the second link by the second cylinder, the counterweight is selectively raised and lowered between a mounting position defined on the frame and a separating position above the mounting position. Through pivoting of the first link by the first cylinder, the counterweight moves between the separating position and the ground surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventors: Masahiko Hamaguchi, Akinobu Iwasaki
  • Patent number: 7618062
    Abstract: A working machine includes a rear mounted 3 point hitch and a ballast assembly. The ballast assembly includes a housing and a metal frame positioned within the housing. The frame includes a 3 point coupler connected with the 3 point hitch. Concrete ballast is within the housing in contact with the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Nicholas Hamm, Peter Sutherland Sharpe
  • Patent number: 7607692
    Abstract: An automobile ballast device includes a bladder member configured to hold various amounts of matter and having an inlet for selectively allowing the matter to enter the bladder member. The automobile ballast device further includes a plurality of lower panels configured to collectively form a unitary platform below the bladder member, each lower panel having an interlocking member complementary to an interlocking member of another respective lower panel. Similarly, the automobile ballast device includes a plurality of upper panels configured to collectively form a unitary platform atop the bladder member, each upper panel having an interlocking member complementary to an interlocking member of another respective upper panel. The ballast device also includes a plurality of spacers, each spacer being coupled to respective lower upper panels for maintaining a selected distance therebetween. Each spacer includes indicia indicative of a volume or weight of ballast matter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Inventors: Edie A. Adams, Caren M. Wiersema
  • Patent number: 7552944
    Abstract: A vehicle ballast system for providing added weight over the wheels of a vehicle for increased traction and to also serve as a storage container. The system also acts as a storage or utility container when the internal bladder is removed. The vehicle ballast system includes a base container, a liner removably positioned within the base container and a bladder unit removably positioned within the liner. The bladder unit includes a nozzle and is able to retain a volume of a liquid substance. The vehicle ballast system also includes a cover that is removably attached to an upper end of the base container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Assignee: Chaden L.L.C.
    Inventor: Dennis M. Breidenstein
  • Patent number: 7523961
    Abstract: A truck bed ballast system for providing incremental amounts of extra weight over the rear drive wheels of a pick-up truck that doubles as a storage container for traction-enhancing media, such as salt, sand, gravel, and the like. One example of the truck bed ballast system comprises at least one elongated cylindrical body member that is permanently capped at one end and may either be permanently capped or removably and resealably capped at the other end. At least one cylindrical body member is positioned in the bed of a pickup truck that is expected to need extra traction (such as in icy weather) between the rear wheel wells and the tailgate. If the truck were to lose traction and become stuck, despite the presence of the extra ballast weight, one or more cylindrical body members may be removed from the truck bed and their contents applied under the drive wheels to enhance traction and allow the truck to become unstuck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Inventor: Travis R. Watkins
  • Patent number: 7513529
    Abstract: A single-piece tractor weight (M) comprising an upper surface (1), a base (2) , two surface oriented transversely relative to the advancing direction of the tractor and two side surfaces having a transverse eye bolt or pin (7, 8) constituting an engagement element for lifting the tractor; the weight (M) includes at least one housing (L1, L2) emerging on the outside and oriented so as to receive at least one lifting branch (B1, B2) of a load handling device and to enable the weight to be lifted and handled through co-operation between the housing and the lifting branch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Inventor: Hubert Defrancq
  • Publication number: 20080309059
    Abstract: A vehicle traction enhancement system for use in a vehicle storage compartment such as a trunk or truck bed, to add weight or ballast above the driven wheels to improve traction, especially during times of inclement weather. The system includes an elongated carrier and retention devices or compartments for the weights.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Inventor: Aaron Clements
  • Publication number: 20080246262
    Abstract: An automobile ballast device includes a bladder member configured to hold various amounts of matter and having an inlet for selectively allowing the matter to enter the bladder member. The automobile ballast device further includes a plurality of lower panels configured to collectively form a unitary platform below the bladder member, each lower panel having an interlocking member complementary to an interlocking member of another respective lower panel. Similarly, the automobile ballast device includes a plurality of upper panels configured to collectively form a unitary platform atop the bladder member, each upper panel having an interlocking member complementary to an interlocking member of another respective upper panel. The ballast device also includes a plurality of spacers, each spacer being coupled to respective lower upper panels for maintaining a selected distance therebetween. Each spacer includes indicia indicative of a volume or weight of ballast matter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2007
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Inventors: Edie A. Adams, Caren M. Wiersema
  • Publication number: 20080197614
    Abstract: A ballast apparatus adds ballast above or adjacent to the driven wheels of a vehicle, wherein the ballast can be easily loaded and unloaded without taking up valuable cargo space of the vehicle. The ballast apparatus is preferably integrated with the structure of the vehicle and includes at least one ballast container located within a body cavity of the vehicle, wherein the ballast container includes at least one inlet and at least one outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2007
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Inventors: Andrew P. Connors, Marc A. Rossi
  • Publication number: 20080197615
    Abstract: Modular weight systems for improving tire traction of automobiles on road surfaces affected by inclement weather are disclosed. The modular weight systems include a plurality of tiles that are configured to releasably mate to one another, and to fit within the cargo space of a vehicle without significantly reducing utility or becoming dislodged during movement. The tiles generally weigh between twenty and two-hundred pounds each, and they may be filled or doped with heavy filler materials, such as sand, stone or shot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2008
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Inventor: Michael R. Connolly
  • Publication number: 20080129028
    Abstract: A working machine includes a rear mounted 3 point hitch and a ballast assembly. The ballast assembly includes a housing and a metal frame positioned within the housing. The frame includes a 3 point coupler connected with the 3 point hitch. Concrete ballast is within the housing in contact with the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2006
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Inventors: Nicholas Hamm, Peter Sutherland Sharpe
  • Patent number: 7354066
    Abstract: A counterweight device comprises a first engaging groove formed at a counterweight, a second engaging groove formed at a body frame, a first engaging member projecting at the counterweight, which engages at the second engaging groove when mounting the counterweight, a second engaging member projecting at the body frame, which engages at the first engaging groove when mounting the counterweight. A locking device that locks the counterweight to the body frame when the first engaging member is engaged at the second engaging groove and the second engaging member is engaged at the first engaging groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: Hitachi Sumitomo Heavy Industries Construction Crane Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kazunori Yamamoto
  • Publication number: 20070284865
    Abstract: A truck bed ballast system for providing incremental amounts of extra weight over the rear drive wheels of a pick-up truck that doubles as a storage container for traction-enhancing media, such as salt, sand, gravel, and the like. One example of the truck bed ballast system comprises at least one elongated cylindrical body member that is permanently capped at one end and may either be permanently capped or removably and resealably capped at the other end. At least one cylindrical body member is positioned in the bed of a pickup truck that is expected to need extra traction (such as in icy weather) between the rear wheel wells and the tailgate. If the truck were to lose traction and become stuck, despite the presence of the extra ballast weight, one or more cylindrical body members may be removed from the truck bed and their contents applied under the drive wheels to enhance traction and allow the truck to become unstuck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2006
    Publication date: December 13, 2007
    Inventor: Travis R. Watkins
  • Patent number: 7281737
    Abstract: A unitary ballast device for attachment to the rear portion of a pickup truck cargo bed using mounting pins, chain links, shackles and affixed eyelets in the interior of the vehicle cargo bed. The ballast device is composed of steel or other heavy metal, and the surface coated in rubber to reduce damage to the cargo bed and any cargo present in the cargo bed. The device is positioned laterally at the rear of the vehicle bed and is releasable by detaching from affixed eyelets in the cargo bed and can be modified to include a second metal base for increased dampening effect. The device can remain in place with cargo loads present with little risk of damage to the load due to the beveled edges and rubber coating of the base, thereby increasing ease of use and efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Inventor: William Gregory Ellis
  • Patent number: 7264273
    Abstract: A ballast system for use in a cargo bed of a vehicle, such as a pick-up truck, provides generally even weight distribution over rear or powered wheels of the vehicle. The ballast system provides additional weight to the cargo bed of the vehicle, thereby improving stability, handling, and rear wheel traction, especially during inclement weather, such as in snow or rain. The ballast system may be rolled-up into a compact roll during non-use for convenient storage. The ballast system has a plurality of weighted cross-members laminated, attached, or bonded between two generally pliable mats. The cross-members are, preferably, equally spaced apart from each other along widths of the mats and transverse to a longitudinal direction of the cargo bed of the vehicle. The ballast system is readily rolled-up into a compact roll for convenient storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Inventors: James Joseph Ryan, III, Jennifer Anne Ryan
  • Patent number: 7204499
    Abstract: An axle supporting structure for supporting an axle beam for an industrial vehicle includes a center pin, a pair of axle supporting units and a counterweight. The center pin protrudes from the axle beam. Each axle supporting unit has formed therethrough an insertion hole in which the center pin is inserted. The axle supporting unit has an upper axle supporting member and a lower axle supporting member which is detachably connected to the upper axle supporting member. The pair of axle supporting units is spaced from each other in a traveling direction of the vehicle. The center pin is rotatably supported between the pair of axle supporting units. The upper axle supporting members of the axle supporting units are cast in the counterweight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toyota Jidoshokki
    Inventors: Takahito Miyake, Hiroshi Kobayashi, Shuo Uematsu, Tomomichi Miura, Kenichi Katae