Retractable Prop, Support, Or Stabilizer Patents (Class 280/763.1)
  • Publication number: 20110101719
    Abstract: A surveillance module may be deployed from a vehicle. The vehicle to deploy the surveillance module includes a first portion configured to accommodate a user to operate the vehicle. A second portion includes a module configured to accommodate the user and comprising a roof and an entrance accessible through an interior of the vehicle from the first portion. The second portion also includes a lifting mechanism coupled to the module and operable to move the module vertically from a retracted position to an extended position. A third portion defines an opening to accommodate the module, wherein the roof of the module couples to a periphery of the opening in the retracted position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2010
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Applicant: TerraHawk, LLC
    Inventors: Tom R. James, John R. Spence
  • Patent number: 7914033
    Abstract: A method and apparatus suitable for stabilizing a two-wheeled motorcycle during operation. The apparatus is securable to a location near the front of the motorcycle engine. At least one arm assembly extends in a rearward direction relative to the motorcycle and outboard of the motorcycle's engine and operator's seat. A wheel assembly is mounted at an rearward end of the arm assembly and includes a wheel engageable with a surface supporting the motorcycle. A biasing assembly biases the arm assembly to rotate upward an adjustable limited distance at which the wheel is not engaged with the support surface. The biasing assembly applies a biasing resistance to downward rotation of the arm assembly over the limited distance for engaging the wheel with the support surface, yet allows the arm assembly to rotate upward farther than the limited distance to a raised position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Carl Rae Nethery
  • Publication number: 20110062695
    Abstract: A mobile implement, particularly an automatic concrete pump, with stability monitoring system includes an undercarriage supportable on a subsurface by two front and two rear outriggers. A respective measuring element is disposed in the telescoping support legs of the outriggers for determining the supporting force. Each support leg has an upper telescoping element connected to the associated outrigger at an upper connection point, and a support base displaceable relative to the upper element and supported on the subsurface at the lower end thereof at a lower connection point. The measuring element is disposed either directly at the upper connection point between the outrigger and the upper telescoping element, or in the region of the lower connection point between the lower telescoping element and the support base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Publication date: March 17, 2011
    Applicant: Putzmeister Engineering GmbH
    Inventors: Dieter Bergemann, Stephan Gelies, Thorsten Haefner, Michael Neubert
  • Patent number: 7900962
    Abstract: A stabilizer pad structure including a weldment formed of a metal plate material that is arranged in a generally U-shaped form including side legs and a connecting base and a resilient pad mounted to the weldment. Means are provided for forming pockets in the legs of the weldment for receiving the resilient pad. The weldment also includes a pair of grouser flanges on the opposed side of the pocket and with each grouser flange overlying the footprint of the resilient pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Inventor: Andry Lagsdin
  • Patent number: 7896366
    Abstract: A retractable wheel assembly includes a wheel frame supporting a wheel, and a pivot bracket assembly secured to the wheel frame. The pivot bracket assembly is displaceable between an extended position and a retracted position. A biasing mechanism is coupled with the pivot bracket assembly. The biasing mechanism urges the pivot bracket assembly toward the extended position when the pivot bracket assembly is in the extended position and urges the pivot bracket assembly toward the retracted position when the pivot bracket assembly is in the retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: JLG Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Geoffrey George Campbell, Hugh Lithgow Stark
  • Patent number: 7862083
    Abstract: An actuation mechanism is used with the deployment apparatus mounting a running board on an automotive vehicle for laterally outward movement to increase rollover resistance for the vehicle. The actuation mechanism includes a cup with a hollow tube attached thereto to provide a path for the movement of a ball from the cup into engagement with the latching mechanism on the deployment apparatus. The ball is retained within the cup member until the actuation mechanism and the automotive vehicle to which it is mounted tilts to a minimum roll angle, whereupon the ball is released to roll down the hollow tube into engagement with the latching mechanism of the deployment apparatus. In one embodiment, a single cup with a pair of laterally extending tubes directs the ball to the deployment apparatus that requires actuation. In other embodiments, a separate actuation mechanism is provided for each respective deployment apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: A. Mangala M. Jayasuriya
  • Publication number: 20100264635
    Abstract: The invention relates to a wheeled working machine, particularly a truck-mounted concrete pump, comprising a chassis (10) that is designed as a semi-trailer. The semi-trailer encompasses a tractor (12) and a multi-axle trailer (14) which is connected to the tractor (12) by means of a fifth wheel (16) and carries the working machine. A support structure (38) located in the area of the trailer (14) can be supported on a ground (40) while the semi-trailer is lifted. The support structure (38) comprises two front support booms (42?, 42?) and two rear support booms (44) which can all be swiveled relative to the trailer (14) between a transported position and at least one supporting position. Furthermore, means for lifting and blocking the tractor (12) are arranged on the trailer (14) such that the tractor (12) forms a ballast in the supporting position in order to stabilize the trailer (14) that is supported on the ground (40) with the help of the support structure (38).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2008
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: Putzmeister Concrete Pumps GmbH
    Inventor: Dietmar Fuegel
  • Patent number: 7815238
    Abstract: A closed two-wheel motorcycle including a closed cab with a door arranged around the motorcycle structure and having retractable floors for the driver's feet, separated from each the other, which can be depressed toward the ground and are resettable by spring members is presented. Each retractable floor is connected with an external rocker arm hinged at a rear section of the motorcycle and a sliding member guided by a sleeve at a front section of the cab. The spring members operate between an upper portion of the sliding members and the front section of the cab, while locking brakes cooperate, at rest, with the sliding members for holding depressed the floor portions against the action of the spring members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Inventor: Haiyang Cao
  • Patent number: 7802814
    Abstract: A stabilizer pad construction is shown in which a pair of resilient laminated pad assemblies are mounted outboard on a weldment that is pivotally supported from a stabilizer arm of a vehicle. A latch device is also illustrated in two different embodiments that prevent self-flipping of the pad, particularly from the grouser side to the resilient pad side. The latch device uses either a capture recess or a capture tab for preventing rotation and includes a handle to permit the user to manually rotate the pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Inventor: Andry Lagsdin
  • Patent number: 7789425
    Abstract: An apparatus for stabilizing a stationary trailer comprises a adjustable length leg member, which may comprise the jack stands or landing gear which come as originally installed equipment on the trailer. Alternatively, the adjustable length leg members may comprise various types of jacks which are later attached to the bottom of the trailer. The apparatus further comprises a ground engaging base plate which is attached to the end of the adjustable length leg member. The ground engaging base plate comprises attachment means for one or more stabilizer members. The first end of the stabilizing member attaches to the ground engaging base plate and the second end of the stabilizing member attaches to an attachment member depending from the bottom of the trailer. The attachment member is adapted to slidably receive the second end of the stabilizing member. The attachment member comprises locking means for engaging the stabilizing member and locking the stabilizing member with respect to the attachment member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Inventor: Paul Hanscom
  • Patent number: 7789453
    Abstract: A trailer fairing for reducing aerodynamic drag from trailer landing gear and/or wheel assembly is disclosed. The fairing may be directly connected to the forward facing structural supports of the landing gear, and an air tank may be located between the fairing and the cargo storage area. A single fairing may be used to reduce the drag from both the trailer landing gear and wheel assembly. The fairing may include a tapered front section and/or a rear section. The fairing may have rounded, oval, angled, and/or tapered sections. A plurality of fairings may also be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: Vanguard National Trailer Corporation
    Inventors: Mark A. Roush, Keith Wallace
  • Patent number: 7789426
    Abstract: An apparatus for stabilizing a stationary trailer with an adjustable length leg member. The apparatus comprises a ground engaging base plate which is attached to the end of the adjustable length leg member and has attachment means for one or more stabilizing members. The first end of the stabilizing member attaches to the ground engaging base plate and the second end of the stabilizing member attaches to an attachment member depending from the trailer. The attachment member is adapted to slidably receive the second end of the stabilizing member and comprises locking means for engaging the stabilizing member and locking the stabilizing member with respect to the attachment member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Inventor: Paul Hanscom
  • Patent number: 7779556
    Abstract: Exemplary mobile drying containers and related methods are provided. In one embodiment, the mobile drying container includes a first side wall, a second side wall, a first end wall, a second end wall having a gate, an interior bottom, an upper volume and a lower volume separated by a ventilated floor supported by support members, wheels positioned below the lower volume, and one or more support legs positioned below the lower volume to provide support between the mobile drying container and the ground. The upper volume holds the crop to be dried, and the gate of the second end wall is operable to open and provide a path to dump or remove the crop. The lower volume is operable to receive a flow of air from an opening to assist with the drying of the crop. The present invention also encompasses other embodiments and methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: APT Advanced Trailer and Equipment, LP
    Inventor: Randal W. Hill
  • Patent number: 7766387
    Abstract: An anti-skid device for a vehicle for positioning a traction member beneath a vehicle wheel includes a support member that is attached to the vehicle, a pivoting swing arm with a traction wheel with traction members thereon, and a drive assembly attached to the support member and to the swing arm so as to extend and retract the swing arm. The drive assembly includes a gear-reduced electric motor that is coupled to a worm that meshes with a worm gear that is attached to the swing arm shaft. As the motor moves in a first direction, the gear mesh causes the arm to deploy and, in a reverse direction, the swing arm retracts. Spring-biasing is provided so as to maintain pressure of the traction wheel against the vehicle wheel and limit switches are provided so as to turn the drive motor on and off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Onspot of North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald D. Rosenbalm, Michael D. Gilpin
  • Publication number: 20100187782
    Abstract: A load-carrying dolly having four wheels (6, 7) adjacent the corners of its platform (1) is rendered immobile by conversion to a pallet-like condition by lowering bearers (9, 10, 11) into contact with the floor or ground (24) and then raising the platform (1) slightly to raise the wheels (6, 7) clear of the floor or ground by means of either of two pedals (25, 32), one below each end of the platform (1), with linkage (of either of two forms, not shown) to bars (23) connecting in “slave” pairs of toggle links (20, 21) by means of which the bearers are suspended through beams (33) connecting upward extensions (12, 13, 14) at the ends of the bearers (9, 10, 11), the toggle links in each pair becoming locked by mating abutments (28) coming together when the links have passed slightly beyond in-line position, the mechanical advantage of the depressed pedal (25 or 32) being amplified by that of the pairs of toggle links when passing through in-line positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2007
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Applicant: LOADHOG LIMITED
    Inventors: Hugh David Facey, Derek Boaler, John Makin, Brian Edward Shawcross, Leigh Jowett
  • Patent number: 7744106
    Abstract: A vehicle step assembly uses hinged pedestals, attitude links and an energy storage device to position step stringers and an attached step beam in a generally horizontal and elevated deployed position, while permitting a space-saving tucked-in stowed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignees: Ford Global Technologies, Multimatic, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Bryan VanBelle, Louis Matthew Caballero, Sven Sauerwein, David A Barrett
  • Patent number: 7740260
    Abstract: A vehicle step assembly uses hinged pedestals and attitude links to position step stringers and an attached step beam in a generally horizontal and elevated deployed position, while permitting a space-saving tucked-in stowed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignees: Ford Global Technologies, Multimatic, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael VanBelle, Louis Caballero, Sven Sauerwein, David Barrett
  • Publication number: 20100072737
    Abstract: A wheel segment for the pivotal mounting of a base plate to a support jack, wherein the wheel segment has a partially cylindrical jacket element having a winding surface that is curved on the underside of said jacket element, and two side walls positioned radially on the jacket element, wherein a stop point is configured in the upper section thereof. An arrangement of a wheel segment is further protected at a support jack. The aim of the invention, among others, is to produce a wheel segment in a cost-effective manner while maintaining equal stability. Said aim is attained according to the invention by a wheel segment that is produced as a one-piece casting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Applicant: JOST-WERKE GMBH
    Inventors: José Manuel Algüera, Günter Seidel
  • Publication number: 20100066068
    Abstract: A trailer jack capable of rapid gross and incremental adjustments in height adapted for attachment to a trailer. The jack is comprised of an inner member nested within an outer member, a collar, a housing and a pin. The inner member is threadably connected to the outer member with a bolt having a crank attached at one end. The bolt enables incremental adjustments in the trailer height by extension and retraction of the inner member with respect to the outer member. The connected outer and inner members are secured to the trailer with a pin inserted through the housing, a hole in the collar and one of a plurality of longitudinal holes in the outer member. To create rapid gross adjustments in the trailer height, the pin is retracted, a different hole in the outer member is registered with the hole in the collar and the pin re-inserted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventor: Dale McMahan
  • Patent number: 7654570
    Abstract: A support leg assistant for use with a support jack having a telescoping support leg comprises an elongated housing member having a first end attached to the stationary outer tube of the jack and a second end extending outwardly from the jack. Preferably, housing member is generally horizontal and the second end thereof is at or near the edge of a trailer supported by the jack. An elongated pin extends through the housing member with a first end passing through a portion of the support leg in the outer tubing to hold the leg in position and a second end extending outwardly of the housing member to a handle. A elongated member, such as a cable, wire or rope, interconnects a crank with the bottom of the support leg so that the operator may raise, lower and secure the leg without crawling, bending or reaching under the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Inventor: Barciliso Jerry Giralde
  • Patent number: 7654800
    Abstract: A mobile concrete pump including a building frame (22) arranged on the structure (12) of a truck chassis (10). The building frame (22) includes two longitudinal side members (50) mutually spaced apart by a free space (52) and resting on the chassis structure (12). The mobile concrete pump further comprises a driving assembly (42) for actuating the functional units, which are arranged with the core pump (24) in the free space zone (52) located between the two longitudinal side members (50). At least the core pump can be easily mounted and dismounted from the building frame (22). For this, the building frame (22) is provided with a floating bearing (54) which links the side members across the free space, as well as a fixed bearing (56) arranged at the rear end of the building frame and serving to support releasably the core pump (24) which is pre-assembled in modular manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Putzmeister Concrete Pumps GmbH
    Inventors: Joachim Leibbrand, Dieter Schneider, Hellmut Hurr
  • Patent number: 7648152
    Abstract: An accessory adapted to be affixed to a motorcycle kickstand comprising a pad and at least one bracket removably attachable to the pad at a top of each channel wall by at least one fastener. The pad comprises a channel formed between opposing channel walls extending vertically from either longitudinal side of the pad, and a bottom side. The bottom side comprises a tread and provides support and a barrier that prevents the kickstand from marring a surface when a force is applied to the deployed kickstand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Inventor: Matt Litter
  • Patent number: 7648154
    Abstract: The subject invention pertains to a method and apparatus for providing a trailer jack mount. The subject invention also pertains to a method and apparatus for providing a trailer jack mount for use with towable trailers. The subject invention is advantageous for use with trailers, such as utility trailers, which are frequently moved between various locations. The subject apparatus can also enable the mounting of a trailer jack to a trailer such that the trailer jack can quickly transition up or down relative to the trailer. In a specific embodiment, the subject invention includes a first piece mountable to a trailer and a second piece to which a trailer jack can be secured. In this embodiment, the subject apparatus also includes means for securely attaching the second piece to the first piece and allowing the second piece to pivot relative to the first piece. Advantageously, the subject invention can either be retrofitted to an existing trailer with jack, or installed at original manufacture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Inventor: E. Paul Green
  • Patent number: 7611160
    Abstract: A lever actuated jack may be mounted to a trailer. An inner jack tube slidably engages the outer jack tube. A lever is attached to the upper end of the inner jack tube, or to an inner support bracket that communicates with an upper portion of the inner jack tube. The lever is pivoted, applying a downward force to the inner jack tube, which pushes the tongue of the trailer up to elevate the tongue of the trailer as required. The lever is sufficiently long to provide adequate mechanical advantage to force the tongue of a loaded trailer upwardly the required distance. The lever may be pivoted in the opposite direction to lower the tongue of the trailer by pulling the inner jack tube within the outer jack tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Inventor: Roy M. Ignacio
  • Patent number: 7604207
    Abstract: A tripod has an extensible strut for improving the stability thereof by tying the strut to a sturdy object. In another aspect of the invention, a method of using a tripod includes attaching the tripod to a sturdy object. In another aspect of the invention, a novel caster wheel mechanism permits easy relocation of the tripod. In another aspect of the invention, a multi-function support is provided. In yet another aspect of the invention, a tool rack is provided supported by the tripod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: Faro Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth J. Hasloecher, Simon Raab
  • Publication number: 20090243532
    Abstract: Systems and methods for a vehicle mounted articulator are described. A vehicle conveniently allows an articulator to be moved to various remote work sites. In one embodiment, the articulator can be mounted on a movable base, thereby increasing the flexibility of use and/or reach of the articulator. Such vehicle-mounted articulators can be subjected to various potentially damaging situations due to motion of the vehicle. Various features that allow safe operation of the vehicle and the articulator are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2009
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Applicant: ROMER INC.
    Inventor: Homer Eaton
  • Patent number: 7594679
    Abstract: A three-section outrigger for a boom truck or the like which may be pivotally moved with respect to the boom truck so that the outrigger may be extended outwardly, forwardly and downwardly with respect to the boom truck to eliminate the need for an outrigger at the front end of the boom truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Assignee: Westchester Captial, LLC
    Inventor: William D. Schneider
  • Patent number: 7594555
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for moving a portion of a vehicle hood away from a portion of the vehicle, the apparatus comprising: a first portion; a second portion, comprising; a fixed portion and a slidable portion slidably mounted to the first portion for movement between a first position and a second position, the fixed portion comprising a first opening at one end and an elongated opening, the slidable portion comprising a second opening juxtaposed to the first opening when the slidable portion is in the first position; a first connecting member being pivotally secured to the first portion at one end and releaseably secured to the second portion at another end by a pivot pin that is rotatably secured within the first opening and the second opening when the slidable portion is in the first position; a second connecting member being pivotally secured to the first portion at one end and slidably secured to the second portion at another end by a pin that is slidably received within the elongated opening of the fixe
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerhard Lutter, Daniel Hahn, Minoo J. Shah, James L. Webber
  • Publication number: 20090212532
    Abstract: A side stand attaching structure for a motorcycle includes a stand attaching part of a body of the motorcycle, a stand bracket, and a connector. The stand bracket rotatably connects a base end part of a levelable side stand to the stand attaching part. The side stand is provided on one side at a lower part of the body. The connector connects the stand bracket to the stand attaching part. The connector is inclined to extend upward as the connector extends outwardly in a width direction of the motorcycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Takashi KUDO
  • Patent number: 7578524
    Abstract: A land based recreation and utility vehicle lift and anti-theft device and system. The device includes an elongated support post including a ground-engaging fulcrum connected to, and laterally offset in one direction from, the lower end of the support post. A first pivotal connection of the support post is positioned laterally therefrom in the opposite direction from the fulcrum and adapted for pivotal connection to a drawbar or tubular member of the PRV. A locking bar is also pivotally connected at one end to the support post and preferably connectable at the other end to the drawbar or frame member at a point spaced from the first pivotal connection after the corresponding end of the vehicle is lifted from contact with the support surface by pivotal movement of the support post about the fulcrum whereby the lifted end of the vehicle is maintained in a lifted position for service and as a theft deterrent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Inventor: William J Matthews
  • Publication number: 20090205908
    Abstract: A powered omni-directional aircraft and ordinance handling vehicle which, in one embodiment, includes a circular frame and two drive wheels capable of independent powered forward and rearward rotation about a horizontal axis. The drive wheels are adapted to allow the vehicle to spin in place about a vertical axis which intersects the horizontal axis midway between the drive wheels and which is generally centered in the circular frame. A turret is rotatively mounted to the frame such that it is capable of rotation about the vertical axis, and an articulated ordinance handling arm is mounted to the turret. A castor is mounted to the frame for supporting the frame on the ground. A control system enables the vehicle to rotate in place to change headings while maintaining ordinance carried by the arm motionless with respect to the ground and to perform repetitive precise multi-axis motion control of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2006
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventor: Carl L. Hammonds
  • Patent number: 7575249
    Abstract: A height adjustable support comprising a stationary outer support tube, an inner support tube arranged in a longitudinally displaceable manner in the outer support tube, a gearbox output shaft mounted for rotational movement in the outer support tube, a bevel gear fixed to the gearbox output shaft, a spindle drive engaged with the bevel gear for displacing the inner support tube within the outer support tube, a gearwheel fixed to the gearbox output shaft and engaging a pinion of a drive motor, for driving the gearwheel, the gearbox output shaft, the bevel gear and the spindle drive for moving the inner support tube, and a switch off device which deactivates the drive motor when an end of the inner support tube abuts a surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: Georg Fischer Verkehrstechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Reinhold Riedl
  • Publication number: 20090200782
    Abstract: An apparatus for stabilizing a towed vehicle when stationary, such as a fifth wheel trailer. A pair of independent stabilizing legs is attached to the pin box for towed vehicle, each of the leg being attached to an opposite side of the pin box by means of a universal joint. When deployed, a fine adjustment extends between the legs for altering the leg spacing. When stowed, each of the leg is located in a bracket shaped to engage and retain the leg.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2008
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Applicant: LIPPERT COMPONENTS, INC.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Albrecht, Charles J. Dietz
  • Patent number: 7559398
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a lifting device (1) to be mounted in a motor vehicle and intended, in case the vehicle is involved in an accident, to be activated by putting a lifting element (5) being spring-tensioned in the lifting device in motion, wherein the lifting device comprises a locking device (7) intended to cooperate with the lifting element (5) for locking it in a spring-tensioned position, and a release mechanism (9) intended to release the locked lifting element (5) so it can be put in motion under the influence of the spring tension. The invention is characterised in that the release mechanism (9) comprises a striking element (37) intended to release the locked lifting element (5) by means of striking-pin action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: Mikael Karlsson
  • Patent number: 7543851
    Abstract: A mobile concrete pump comprising a structural frame (14) mounted on the undercarriage (10) of a truck chassis (12), a boom stand (22) that is provided on the structural frame (14) and that is rotatable about a vertical axis (20) and a concrete distribution boom (24) configured in the form of multi-arm articulated boom (24). The concrete distributing boom consisting, for example, of six arms, which arms can rotate with respect to one another. In order to make possible the use of a distributing boom with a longer reach, a trailer (32) having its own undercarriage (34) is provided, said trailer being connected to the truck undercarriage (10) by a coupling member (36) in the transport condition. The trailer (32) has a pivot member (40) rotatable about a vertical axis (38) for receiving an arm set (42) that projects beyond the rear end of the truck undercarriage (10) in the transport condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Putzmeister Concrete Pumps GmbH
    Inventors: Markus Wolfram, Dieter Alwes, Michael H. Clement, Bernhard Raschke
  • Patent number: 7525276
    Abstract: Systems and methods for a vehicle mounted articulator are described. A vehicle conveniently allows an articulator to be moved to various remote work sites. In one embodiment, the articulator can be mounted on a movable base, thereby increasing the flexibility of use and/or reach of the articulator. Such vehicle-mounted articulators can be subjected to various potentially damaging situations due to motion of the vehicle. Various features that allow safe operation of the vehicle and the articulator are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Assignee: Romer, Inc.
    Inventor: Homer Eaton
  • Publication number: 20090102176
    Abstract: A stabilizing rod for a retractable stabilizing support for a vehicle, such as a recreational vehicle, a trailer, or the like, the stabilizing rod comprising: a longitudinally extendable and retractable member having a first end and a second end, the first end being configured to attach to one of a vehicle and a stabilizing support and the second end being configured to attach to the other of the vehicle and a stabilizing support, wherein one of the first and second ends includes a first rotation means that configured to rotate in more than one plane and the other of the first and second ends includes a second rotation means that rotates in at least one plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2007
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventor: Bernard F. Garceau
  • Publication number: 20090072525
    Abstract: A pad for positioning between a surface and an outrigger plate of the vehicle. The pad includes a polymeric shell and a foam core is contained within the polymeric shell to provide a lightweight pad which is able to withstand the forces provided when securing a vehicle in a raised position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2007
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Applicant: Strike Tool, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert S. Banks
  • Patent number: 7497417
    Abstract: An embodiment of the invention is directed to camper having a four point jack system with a brace stabilization system. Typically, the camper includes four jacks anchored at four anchor points on the camper. The camper further includes one or more stabilization braces that provide an attachment between the base of the camper and one of the four jacks. In one embodiment, the stabilization braces may be anchored at a brace anchor point on the base of the camper such that the anchor point includes a tie rod with a swivel end. The braces may swivel to attach to a respective jack at any point along the jack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Inventor: Walt Perham
  • Patent number: 7494154
    Abstract: A powered maneuverable and retractable trailer jack adapted for attachment to a tongue of a trailer has an external sleeve, a gear rack on an exterior of the external sleeve, a housing containing at least one gear engaged with the gear rack and operative to move the external sleeve relative to the housing, the housing including a mount configured for attachment to the tongue of a trailer whereby the external sleeve is laterally offset relative to the tongue of a trailer, an internal rod within the external sleeve, the internal rod extending through a wheel fork at a lower distal end of the internal rod and the external sleeve and attached to a drive gear which is engaged with a shaft gear upon a drive shaft rotationally mounted in the wheel fork, and a drive sprocket attached to the drive shaft, a wheel mounted upon an axle rotationally mounted within the wheel fork, and a wheel sprocket attached to the axle proximate to the wheel, and a chain which extends continuously from the wheel sprocket to the drive sp
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Inventors: Robert E. Richards, Mark J. Quintile
  • Patent number: 7481285
    Abstract: A lifting and steering assembly for permitting a vehicle to be turned in a small area. The lifting and steering assembly includes at least one turning assembly for being coupled to the vehicle. The turning assembly comprises a shaft member is selectively extended from the vehicle whereby the turning assembly selectively engages the support surface to lift a portion of the vehicle off of the support surface. The turning assembly comprises an engaging means for engaging the support surface when shaft member of the turning assembly is extended from the vehicle. The engaging means is coupled to the shaft member. The engaging means is for advancing along the support surface to rotate the portion of the vehicle lifted off the support surface around a portion of the vehicle still in contact with the support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Inventor: Bobbie Savage
  • Patent number: 7478834
    Abstract: A movable concrete pump comprising a structural frame (14) that is mounted on a truck undercarriage (10) of a truck chassis (12), a boom stand (22) which is disposed on the structural frame (14) and can be rotated about a vertical axis (20), and a concrete distribution boom (24) embodied as a multi-member articulated boom. In order to be able to use a distribution boom having a great range, a trailer (34) is provided that has its own undercarriage (34) and is connected to the truck undercarriage (10) via a coupling member (36). The trailer (32) comprises a prop (40) which is rotatable about a vertical axis (38) and accommodates the set of arms that protrude from the rear end of the truck undercarriage (10) while driving on the road. The set of arms forms the coupling member (36) and encompasses a first boom arm (1) and additional boom arms (2 to 4) that are in a folded position relative to the first boom arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: Putzmeister Concrete Pumps GmbH
    Inventor: Karl Schlecht
  • Patent number: 7478835
    Abstract: The invention relates to a mobile unit for mobile machines having extensible support devices comprising a first, continuous rigid support on which travel devices and some of the support devices are arranged and on which a further continuous support or divided support arms, which support the remaining support devices, are outwardly pivotably linked. In accordance with the invention, the first, continuous rigid support is aligned at an angle to the imagined longitudinal axis of the mobile unit and the further continuous support or the divided support arms are aligned with point symmetry to a real or imagined pivot point on the continuous rigid support, with them likewise supporting travel devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: Liebherr-Hydraulikbagger
    Inventor: Oliver Autenrieth
  • Patent number: 7451994
    Abstract: A method and apparatus and for stabilizing a motorcycle or similar two wheeled, single tread vehicle during turning maneuvers incorporating at least one support member connected laterally and extending outwards from a side of the motorcycle frame. The distal end of each support member comprises a type of contact point for providing contact with the road surface. The length and angle from the motorcycle of each support member may be adjustable in order to control the lean angle of the motorcycle for more safe and confident turning maneuvers at various speeds and corner radii. In addition, the support members are non-cumbersome allowing normal operation of a motorcycle, and provide safety features that reduce both the possibility of having an accident and the seriousness of certain “unavoidable” crashes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Inventor: Nevin Heitner
  • Patent number: 7447585
    Abstract: A system for providing enhanced stability, control, and management for a tow-vehicle towing a trailer assembly with trailer sensors is disclosed. The system includes a tow-vehicle with an electronic stability enhancing system in communication with a processor with memory and computer instructions. The system includes sensors located on the tow-vehicle and the trailer for detecting engagement with the trailer when communicating with an integrated circuit system and for detecting force, motion, and combinations thereof, when communicating with the processor. Computer instructions instruct the processor to identify specifications representing the tow-vehicle and trailer assembly and to calculate force values and motion values affecting the tow-vehicle and trailer assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: Tandy Engineering & Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald Frank Tandy, Jr., Donald Frank Tandy, Sr.
  • Patent number: 7445240
    Abstract: The present invention includes a hydraulic source (28), at least a plurality of work hydraulic cylinders (11) of a single type, that are to be driven with pressure oil from the hydraulic source (28), a control valve (22) that controls a flow of pressure oil from the hydraulic source (28) to the work hydraulic cylinders (11), an operating means for (26) issuing a command for drive of the control valve (22), a selector switch (41, 42) that selects at least an independent operation of the work hydraulic cylinders (11), and a pressure oil control means (12a, 12b, 34 to 37) for allowing the pressure oil to flow to a work hydraulic cylinder (11) selected with the selector switch (41, 42) and disallowing flow of pressure oil to other work hydraulic cylinders (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuhiro Ichimura, Katsuaki Kodaka, Hidetoshi Satake
  • Patent number: 7434838
    Abstract: A system for automatically moving a stabilizer of a work vehicle is disclosed. A joystick is connected to an electronic controller, which in turn, is connected to valve drivers to drive stabilizer raising and lowering valves. In one mode of operation, the controller is programmed to move the stabilizers up or down at a rate that is proportional to the deflection of the joystick from a neutral position. If the operator holds the joystick in a certain position or range of positions, the controller enters a second mode in which it automatically raises the stabilizers even if the joystick is released. The stabilizer can be placed in a third mode of operation by moving the joystick rapidly back and forth. When the operator does this, the controller is configured to reduce the ramp rate or damping of its response to joystick movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventors: Peter J. Dix, Dennis J. Heyne
  • Patent number: 7429061
    Abstract: A drive mechanism for a trailer support system secured to a trailer, the drive mechanism being operable to move the trailer support system relative to the trailer and including a gear box secured to the trailer support system, a motor supported adjacent to the gear box and having a drive shaft defining an axis, and a coupler positioned between the gear box and the motor shaft and facilitating movement a drive shaft relative to the gear box along the axis and in a direction substantially normal to the axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Assignee: Ingersoll-Rand Company
    Inventor: John T. Perkins
  • Patent number: 7425012
    Abstract: A trailer with an improved jack stand to selectively allow the stand to rest on the ground with either a foot pedestal or a ground engaging roller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2008
    Inventor: Andrew E. Sease
  • Publication number: 20080217898
    Abstract: An apparatus for stabilizing a stationary trailer with an adjustable length leg member. The apparatus comprises a ground engaging base plate which is attached to the end of the adjustable length leg member and has attachment means for one or more stabilizing members. The first end of the stabilizing member attaches to the ground engaging base plate and the second end of the stabilizing member attaches to an attachment member depending from the trailer. The attachment member is adapted to slidably receive the second end of the stabilizing member and comprises locking means for engaging the stabilizing member and locking the stabilizing member with respect to the attachment member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Inventor: Paul Hanscom