Abstract: A gripping and carrying device for moving a container having a longitudinal axis and a transversal axis where in the device comprises a substantially L-shaped frame extending along the longitudinal axis and connected onto a mobile crane, the frame having a distal end provided with at least one hooking device configured to engage onto at least one complementary hooking device provided on the container and a proximal end provided with a grabbing and gripping deck having grab handles rotationally mounted onto the deck and a gripping device translationally mounted onto the deck, mobile between a releasing position wherein the gripping device are disengaged from the container and a gripping position wherein the gripping device are configured to engage into the container.

Abstract: A lifting apparatus (100) for hoisting a spider (200) of a gyratory crusher has a spreader (110) spanning between two leg members (120) each having an offset arm (121a), clearing arm (121b), cradle arm (121c), and securing arm (121d). The offset arm (121a) forms a second offset distance (131) with respect to an offset axis (C). The arms (121a-121d) form an opening (123) for receiving the spider (200). The leg members (120) oppose each other such that the clearing arms (121b) of the leg members (120) are provided on opposite sides of a plane defined by the horizontal axis (D) and vertical axis (A). The lifting apparatus (100) may be lowered over the spider (200), and rotated approximately 90 degrees in a direction (B) of rotation about the vertical axis (A) to cradle and support the spider (200) from below the spider (200).

Abstract: An adapter assembly for lifting a vehicle includes an adapter defining a first pin aperture, a second pin aperture, and an adapter aperture, a first pin, a second pin, and a cross member removably received by the adapter aperture. The first pin is configured to be removably received by the first pin aperture and a first aperture defined by a frame of the vehicle to selectively couple the adapter to the frame. The second pin is configured to be removably received by the second pin aperture and a second aperture defined by the frame of the vehicle to selectively couple the adapter to the frame.

Abstract: A drive train linkage includes a drive arm having a drive arm pivot axis, a driven arm having a driven arm pivot axis, at least one first coupling member extending between and being rotatably coupled to each of the drive arm and driven arm, and at least one second coupling member extending between and being rotatably coupled to each of the drive arm and driven arm so that the at least one second coupling member opposes the at least one first coupling member, where the at least one first coupling member and the at least one second coupling member are coupled to both the drive arm and the driven arm so to form a substantially zero mechanical deadband coupling between the drive arm and the driven arm.

Abstract: Modular crane attachment device for purlins is a crane attachment jig that attaches to the hook of a crane and functions to lift a plurality of purlins in one lift to place each purlin at the precise location on the rafters of a building under construction to allow for immediate attachment of all purlins to the rafters wherein each purlin is fastened into place while held by the crane and modular crane attachment device for purlins, which functions as a giant assembly jig in this manner. Modular crane attachment device for purlins is modular so that it can be broken down by hand into a bundle of 10-20 foot long structural members, fittings, and cables. Modular crane attachment device for purlins is modular so it can be assembled in any length and width to fit any application of any number and any length of purlins required for the building.

Abstract: The invention disclosed herein is a forklift adapter comprising multiple metal bars which create a payload carriage and two insertion points for traditional forklift forks. The adapter is capable of transporting payloads over obstacles and of precisely positioning the payload at the specified drop location. The adapter redirects the forklift insertion point such that the insertion point is perpendicular to the adapter bottom supports thereby transferring the support load of the forks from the bottom of the payload to the top of the payload. The adapter allows a forklift to position a payload over railings and reverse away from the payload.

Abstract: A portable apparatus for securing an animal for field dressing comprising a base configured to be supported on a flat surface, a first upright member, a second upright member, and a horizontal member extending from the base for support. The base supports the upright members spaced apart in a manner that supports the head of an animal. The upright members include a way for fastening the legs of the animal to the upright posts to spread the animal to permit the animal to be field dressed.

Abstract: In the crane industry, there is a need to efficiently attach, move, and unattach loads to crane hooks. When the load has an asymmetrical center of gravity, two cranes are often used to move the load. In the specification and drawings a spreader bar assembly is described and shown with at least two longitudinal members having a length; a plurality of cross members each attaching to at least two longitudinal members; and a plurality of support means adjustably positioned along the length of the longitudinal members. In a preferable embodiment of the invention, a single crane uses a spreader bar assembly to move a load having an asymmetrical center of gravity.

Abstract: The disclosure describes a lifting system for use with a hoist, comprising of at least one structural frame rail, attached to middle portions of cross members on the opposite ends of the frame rail, such that the two cross members are co-planar. Each end of the cross member is attached to an attachment assembly. The attachment assembly comprises of an extension link and a detachable pin member assembly. On end of extension link is attached to the cross member and the other end is provisioned to receive the pin member assembly. A lifting lug assembly is structured and arranged at the center of the frame rail towards the upper face of the rail, to connect an external hoist for lifting in vertical direction. The lifting system as described above provides an easy lifting mechanism for heavy objects, such as an alternator of the electric drive trucks.

Abstract: An end effector includes a base, a plurality of fingers extending from the base, and a plurality of pads disposed on each of said fingers to support a substrate. The fingers comprise a carbon fiber material and taper from a first diameter and first wall thickness proximate said base to a second diameter smaller than said first diameter and second wall thickness smaller than said first wall thickness distal said base. A method includes adhering a plurality of pads along a plurality of tapered fingers, and adhering proximal ends of the plurality of tapered fingers with corresponding recesses of a base. The assembled pads, tapered fingers and base are placed on a fixture such that top surfaces of the plurality of pads rest on a top surface of the fixture and the assembly is held in place on the fixture until the adhesive has cured at room temperature.

Abstract: Disclosed is an end effector apparatus including a base including a wrist coupling component. The base may be substantially triangular in shape. A plurality of fingers extends from the base. Each finger includes a plurality of wafer support pads for supporting wafers being processed. Each finger has a width dimension, a height dimension and a length dimension, wherein the height dimension tapers smaller along at least a tip portion of the finger.

Abstract: Disclosed is a wafer support and alignment apparatus. The wafer support and alignment apparatus includes a wafer support component adapted to seat, align and support a wafer. The wafer support component includes at least one flat portion to support the wafer, at least one alignment lip portion protruding upward from the at least one flat portion, and at least one recessed pocket carved out of a portion of the at least one base portion. The at least one recessed pocket is adapted to receive at least one pad.

Abstract: A spreader bar for use with a boom lift or ceiling is disclosed. The spreader bar includes at least two arms and an integral scale. Ideally, the load sensor of the scale is located within the spreader bar, preferably centrally within a cavity located between the arms. Thus, there is zero lift height loss when using the spreader bar since a separate scale need not be added between the spreader bar and the boom. Preferably, a pivoting connection member is provided to mount the spreader bar to the boom. The pivoting connection member allows tilting of the spreader bar in any direction perpendicular to the vertical axis. Ideally, 360 degrees of rotation is also provided by the connection member.

Abstract: An integrated grip arm for transfer reticles and carrier boxes is disclosed for improving throughput, yield and reliability of transport equipment. The integrated grip arm comprises a plurality of grippers to accommodate a plurality of reticles and carrier boxes without the need of separate arm or gripper changes. The integrated grip arm can further comprise sensor or means to select the right gripper for the right reticles or carrier boxes.

Abstract: A method for digital manufacturing of a jewelry item includes printing a three-dimensional wax model on a substrate and printing a three-dimensional sprue, the sprue being adapted to support the wax model. A fixture for handling wax models includes a platform, a plurality of holders, a plurality of standoffs, and a tie. A method of manufacturing a jewelry item, comprises forming a first wax model for a portion of a jewelry item, forming a second wax model for a portion of a jewelry item using a rapid prototyping process, and performing one or more lost wax processes with the first and second portion to create the jewelry item.

Abstract: A material handling system for engaging and lifting transformer coils. Four leg assemblies are provided around a transformer. The leg assemblies have extensible plates which extend underneath the transformer. The leg assemblies are secured by chains to an overhead cruciform spacer which is coupled to a crane or other device. The leg assemblies may be bound together by straps to prevent movement of the leg assemblies relative to one another. For smaller or larger transformers, a lesser or greater number of leg assemblies may be used.

Abstract: Carcass support frame 12 is supported by hanger support pin 38 of hanger 14. When a carcass has been mounted to the mounting hooks 32 and 33 of the carcass support frame, the hunter can move the scale connector lever 18 downwardly so that the scale tends to lift the carcass support frame 12 upwardly off the hanger support pin 38, causing the scale to bear the full weight and indicate the weight of the carcass.

Abstract: A support structure for lifting precast blocks includes a longitudinal support arm having a cable suspended therefrom at a multiple suspension points. Several cradles are connected to the cable in positions such that each cradle is positioned between and below a pair of the suspension points. Each cradle may be attached to a sheave that movably connects it to the cable. Each cradle may receive a portion, such as a handle, of a lifting tool below the support arm.

Abstract: A merchandising grapple is disclosed for removing retail items such as beverage cans, bottles, boxes, and the like from shipping containers in groups and placing them in groups on display shelves within a retail establishment. The grapple has spaced features that receive and hold the items in groups of several items and may have a handle for gripping the grapple and a slip joint for adjusting a width of the grapple. A method includes stocking display shelves by removing items in groups from shipping containers and placing them in groups on display shelves.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for removing horizontally oriented substrates from a cassette. A substrate lifter has an engagement end for engaging a substrate and an adjustment end for engaging an adjustment assembly. The engagement end includes a recess having first and second arcuate sidewalls configured to engage an OD of the substrate, and a circular protrusion positioned between the first and second arcuate sidewalls. The circular protrusion allows lateral movement of the substrate up to a predetermined amount and prevents lateral movement of the substrate in excess of the predetermined amount. Other embodiments are described and claimed.

Abstract: A material handling system for engaging and lifting transformer coils. Four leg assemblies are provided around a transformer. The leg assemblies have extensible plates which extend underneath the transformer. The leg assemblies are secured by chains to an overhead cruciform spacer which is coupled to a crane or other device. The leg assemblies may be bound together by straps to prevent movement of the leg assemblies relative to one another. For smaller or larger transformers, a lesser or greater number of leg assemblies may be used.

Abstract: A yoke for receiving, raising, and lowering a vehicle having left and right tires by engagement with the left and right tires, the yoke having a left capture frame; a right capture frame; a span member having left and right ends, and having a medial jack clearance space arch; left and right socket joints for mounting the left and right capture frames upon the span member's left and right ends; and a rotation stopping pin fixedly attached to the arch, the rotation stopping pin being fitted for engaging a socket within a distal end of a trolley jack's lift arm.

Abstract: In the crane industry, there is a need to efficiently attach, move, and unattach loads to crane hooks. When the load has an asymmetrical center of gravity, two cranes are often used to move the load. In the specification and drawings a spreader bar assembly is described and shown with at least two longitudinal members having a length; a plurality of cross members each attaching to at least two longitudinal members; and a plurality of support means adjustably positioned along the length of the longitudinal members. In a preferable embodiment of the invention, a single crane uses a spreader bar assembly to move a load having an asymmetrical center of gravity.

Abstract: A substrate transfer hand for unloading and loading a substrate with respect to a cassette and transferring the substrate, includes: a first driven roller configured to be rotated by a drive mechanism provided in the cassette when the hand is coupled to the cassette along a substrate unloading/loading direction. The substrate transfer hand further includes: a flat support bar configured to be coupled to the cassette; a second driven roller provided in the support bar; and a rotation transmitting unit for transmitting rotation of the first driven roller to the second driven roller such that the second driven roller is rotated in the same direction as the first driven roller.

Abstract: A material handling system for engaging and lifting transformer coils. Four leg assemblies are provided around a transformer. The leg assemblies have extensible plates which extend underneath the transformer. The leg assemblies are secured by chains to an overhead cruciform spacer which is coupled to a crane or other device. The leg assemblies may be bound together by straps to prevent movement of the leg assemblies relative to one another. For smaller or larger transformers, a lesser or greater number of leg assemblies may be used.

Abstract: A lifting system for lifting rotor blades of wind turbines includes a plurality of frame structures each being configured to support a rotor blade. Additionally, the lifting system includes a lifting structure which is attachable to a lifting device, and a number of lifting connectors configured to connect a pack of frame structures to the lifting structure. Furthermore, a method for lifting rotor blades of wind turbines by using a lifting device and a method for installation of rotor blades of wind turbines are provided.

Abstract: Various endeffector designs are disclosed for handling semiconductor wafers. For instance, an endeffector for handling wafers at a relatively low temperature is disclosed along with an endeffector for handling wafers at a relatively high temperature. Both endeffectors include uniquely designed support members that are configured to only contact a wafer at the wafer's edge. The endeffectors may also include a wafer detection system. The endeffector for handling wafers at relatively low temperatures may also include a pushing device that is used not only to position a wafer but to hold a wafer on the endeffector during acceleration or deceleration of the endeffector caused by a robot arm attached to the endeffector. As designed, the endeffectors may have a very slim profile making the endeffectors easily maneuverable.

Abstract: A sling system comprises a plurality of sling units each including a synthetic fibrous sling and a roller unit which has one or more spool-shaped rollers. The system provides for lifting a load in equilibrium and maintaining the load in that position or be rotated or tilted between horizontal and vertical positions. The system provides for a plurality of attachment points of the sling units to the load, and the sling units and may be set up as a single array or a multiple array depending on the type of load being lifted, transported and positioned. Endless and continuous loop synthetic slings and multiple roller units are used in sling units and provide for uniform and equal distribution of the load throughout the sling system. The spool-shaped rollers may be molded of a rigid plastics material with each roller having end flanges to confine the synthetic sling.

Abstract: The cargo spreader bar (100) is a rectangular frame with longitudinal sides (120) that are longer than the lateral sides (118e). Hooks (102) are attached to the frame along the longitudinal sides (120). The hooks (102) hold cargo hoisting chains (CH) and include actuator (206) controlled, pivoting safety locks (208) that close to secure the chains (CH) to the hooks (102). A tubular chain lifter (104) pivotally mounted to the frame extends along one of the longitudinal frame members (120). A second chain lifter (104) extends along the remaining longitudinal frame member (120). Inside sections of the tubular chain lifters (104) are pivotally coupled to a chain lifter actuator (400). When safety locks (208) are disengaged, an actuator arm (401) can be commanded to pivot the outside sections of the lifters (104) to swing upward to release the chains (CH) from the hooks (102).

Abstract: A hollow crane spreader beam incorporates at least one radio-controlled load-release assemblies. Each assembly includes a slidable bolt that is coupled to the plunger of an electric-motor-driven, radio-controlled door lock unit that is installed within the beam. When in a first position, taken in response to application of first polarity voltage to the door lock motor, the bolt traps a free end of a load-supporting chain or cable between a pair of eye blocks, each having an aperture through which the bolt slides. When in a second position, taken in response to application of a second polarity voltage, the bolt releases the free end. The spreader beam also incorporates a radio receiver/controller unit and a battery that is coupled to both the radio receiver/controller unit and the multiple door lock units.

Abstract: The present invention provides a substrate holding mechanism capable of assuredly holding a substrate and delivering/receiving it: a substrate holding mechanism including a substrate holding unit for holding a rectangular substrate, comprising: a plurality of substrate holding rollers provided at positions corresponding to two opposite sides of the substrate on the substrate holding unit and pivotally supported by the substrate holding unit; and a roller driver for rotating the substrate holding rollers, wherein: the substrate holding roller comprises a cylinder part and a holding flange provided along a portion of a circumference of each end of the cylinder part; and each of the substrate holding rollers is rotated by the roller driver so that a state of holding edges of the substrate by the holding flange and a state of releasing the edges can be switched in accordance with a rotation angle of the substrate holding rollers.

Abstract: An active rigging system, using multiple lines to support a load, places a constant tension on at least one of the lines. The constant tension allows a resistance to slack in the line, which in turn allows the line to maintain support of the lines' respective share of the load. This configuration allows a reduction of stress in the load and an enablement of support of loads having an unequal weight distribution. Additionally, the invention includes a method for relieving stress from a load, supported by multiple lines generally susceptible to slack. The method includes placing a constant tension on at least one of the lines to allow that line to resist slack. The resistance to slack involves utilizing a tension force and an adjustment of the line via a pulley.

Abstract: A spreader bar assembly includes an end cap having a shackle connection part and an insertion part adapted for detachable connection to a spreader pipe. A connection sleeve may include multiple insertion ends for respective connection to respective spreader pipes. Where so configured, the pipes may have different diameters.

Abstract: A lifting apparatus includes an I-beam having a lower flange and an upper flange; a plurality of hoist connectors positioned on the I-beam extending upwardly from the upper flange; a center load connector positioned on the I-beam extending downwardly from approximately a midpoint along the lower flange; and at least two movable load connectors positioned on the I-beam extending downwardly from the lower flange, each movable load connector engaged with the I-beam by a plurality of support members having one or more wheels positioned to roll along upper surfaces of the lower flange, the center load connector being positioned between the at least two movable load connectors. An associated method includes providing the lifting apparatus; connecting a lifting machine to at least one of the hoist connectors; connecting a load to at least one of the load connectors; and lifting the load by using the lifting machine.

Abstract: A method and apparatus suspend a load on an arcuate shaped lift arm, which is attached to a body of a lifting apparatus in such a manner that the lift arm is movable with respect to the body of the apparatus along an arc, for selectively engaging and disengaging the load. The lift arm is locked against movement while the lift arm is supporting the load, and a remote release apparatus is provided for moving the lift arm along the arc. A second locking apparatus selectively locks the lift arm in place along the arc at an open position of the apparatus. The lifting apparatus may also include one or more remote release apparatuses, in combination with other elements such as a spreader bar, slings, and control elements.

Abstract: A lifting spreader for an irregular object such as a helicopter. In order to adapt a standard container frame to lift an irregular object, a pair of spreader bars containing slings is provided. Each bar has a central pipe welded to a container box at each end. An L-shaped padeye having a hole in an outer corner is welded to each box and an end stand is welded transversely to the padeye for stability. An extra thickness of material is mounted on either side of the padeye around the hole to provide extra strength where the sling and shackle arrangement is hooked to the spreader bar.

Abstract: A lifting apparatus for use in lifting a trailer from a railcar, wherein the trailer includes a tandem rear axel with wheel assemblies having tires coupled thereto, for use in combination with an overhead crane having a plurality of lifting shoes for engaging the trailer at a plurality of lifting points. The lifting apparatus includes a connector member for connecting the lifting apparatus to a lower portion of particular ones of the plurality of lifting shoes and a retaining member for engaging the tandem rear axel and a particular one of the wheel assemblies in order to secure the particular one of the wheel assemblies in a fixed position and to bear the weight of the tandem rear axel and the wheel assemblies. The lifting apparatus also includes an adjustment member for determining an amount of engagement between the retaining member and the tandem axel and the particular one of the wheel assemblies.

Abstract: A multifunction drum lifter includes a saddle and a plurality of lift arms pivotally connected to the saddle. Each arm includes a working end having at least one lift finger for engaging the chime of a drum to lift the drum. Preferably the lift arms are three in number and each includes a second lift finger for lifting different sized drums. Each lift arm also includes a plug wrench head and an open end wrench head at its working end so that the lift arms can be used as drum wrenches when removed from the saddle. Preferably each arm has a different plug wrench head and open end wrench head from the other lift arms providing an assortment of drum working tools for the user.

Abstract: An active rigging system, using multiple lines to support a load, places a constant tension on at least one of the lines. The constant tension allows a resistance to slack in the line, which in turn allows the line to maintain support of the lines' respective share of the load. This configuration allows a reduction of stress in the load and an enablement of support of loads having an unequal weight distribution. Additionally, the invention includes a method for relieving stress from a load, supported by multiple lines generally susceptible to slack. The method includes placing a constant tension on at least one of the lines to allow that line to resist slack. The resistance to slack involves utilizing a tension force and an adjustment of the line via a pulley.

Abstract: The present invention is characterized by a multipurpose spreader attachment that cooperates with a cargo cage to perform each of the aforementioned loading operations without the need to change riggings. The multipurpose spreader attachment includes in a first preferred embodiment projections on an underside that define sockets to be engaged with complimentary bosses located on the upper surface of a cargo cage. A latching mechanism is provided to effect a locked arrangement between the spreader and the cargo cage to couple to the cargo cage reliably and securely. The cargo cage is adapted to accommodate both the heavy lifting equipment as well as the pallets of goods to be unloaded, such that the need to change riggings for moving the fork lift and moving the cargo is eliminated. Moreover, the multipurpose spreader is equipped with cables that preferably include actuable hooks that suspend from the spreader and can be opened and closed via an actuator on the spreader.

Abstract: A cover for a heat exchange element basket assembly includes a metal sheet and at least one lifting lug. A vertical groove extends inward from the outer surface of the metal sheet. Each lifting lug is a horizontal plate having an opening extending vertically there through, an outer edge, and a shape which is substantially complementary to the cross-sectional profile of the groove. The lifting lug is mounted within the groove, such that the outer edge of the lifting lug does not extend beyond the outer surface of the metal sheet.

Abstract: A handling yoke for clasping a removable vehicular hardtop, comprising,

Abstract: A multifunction drum lifter includes a saddle and a plurality of lift arms pivotally connected to the saddle. Each arm includes a working end having at least one lift finger for engaging the chime of a drum to lift the drum. Preferably the lift arms are three in number and each includes a second lift finger for lifting different sized drums. Each lift arm also includes a plug wrench head and an open end wrench head at its working end so that the lift arms can be used as drum wrenches when removed from the saddle. Preferably each arm has a different plug wrench head and open end wrench head from the other lift arms providing an assortment of drum working tools for the user.

Abstract: The invention relates to a hoist arrangement (10) for a dragline rigging. The hoist arrangement includes a triangular framework comprising a hollow fibreglass spreader bar (14) and two fibreglass ties (12) which are attachable to the spreader bar. The fibreglass ties (12) are connectable to a pick-up link on a dragline rigging, and a pair of lower hoist members in the form of wire-reinforced, synthetic rubber belts (16) depend from the spreader bar (14) and include attachment formations (42) at lower ends thereof for attaching the hoist arrangement (10) to trunnions on a dragline bucket.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a load-bearing traverse, especially for conveying big bags. The present invention also relates to a method of conveying big bags.

Abstract: The invention relates to a carrying device to be coupled to a forklift truck for picking up two containers placed one on top of another, which are provided near their corner points with coupling pieces. Coupling devices of the carrying device are arranged in pairs, wherein an insert part of a first coupling device can be inserted into a coupling piece present near the upper side of the lower container, and two insert parts disposed one above another of a second coupling device of the pair in question, which is capable of pivoting movement with respect to the frame of the carrying device, can be inserted into a coupling piece of the first container and into a coupling piece present on the bottom side of the upper container, respectively.

Abstract: An automated load handling apparatus is provided for handling loads fastened to a spreader having corners and a load suspension mechanism. The load handling apparatus includes a lifting yoke having a horizontal supporting framework that may be suspended at its comers to the spreader, four axially displaceable pendulum supports arranged between the lifting yoke and the spreader for supporting the lifting yoke, a rigid load guide including a lifting mechanism having ropes corresponding to comers of the lifting yoke that may be fastened to the load suspension mechanism of the spreader, and a cylinder pair 7.1, 7.2 arranged toward an end of the lifting yoke. The cylinder pair 7.1, 7.2 provides torque support to the lifting yoke relative to the load guide and is capable of displacing and/or pivoting the lifting yoke relative to the load guide. A sensor mechanism is arranged in the cylinder pair for detecting relative orientation of the lifting yoke relative to the spreader and/or the load guide.

Abstract: A spreader bar includes an elongated bar member having end portions that support a flexible lifting member that is supported below the bar. The flexible lifting member is preferably comprised of a plurality of link sections that are pinned together, load carrying links depending from the flexible member, preferably at pinned connections that join the additional links.

Abstract: A spreader bar apparatus of improved configuration is comprised of a plurality of bar sections including at least a pair of bar sections that are connectable end-to-end to form a lifting bar with a central longitudinal axis and with left and right bar end members, each removably attachable to the lifting bar that is comprised of the two bar sections. A plurality of transverse annular faces are provided respectively on the bar sections and on the bar end members for transferring axial load along the bar central axis and in between the various bar sections and end members during a lift. A plurality of connecting portions provided on the bar sections and bar end members form detachable connections between the bar sections and between each bar end member and a bar section. The apparatus of the present invention is so configured that a majority of load is carried by the annular faces as opposed to the connecting portions.