Apparatus For Moving Material To A Position In The Erection Or Repair Of A Building Patents (Class 414/10)
  • Publication number: 20090252575
    Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement for conveying concrete for the construction of multi-storey concrete buildings. The arrangement comprises a concrete-distributing mast which is height-adjustable on completed parts of the building, for example on storey floors (48?, 48?, 48??), the mast comprising a supporting column (10), a rotary unit (12) and an arm assembly (14) preferably designed as an articulated boom, and the mast being equipped with a conveying line (16) which is guided over the height of the supporting column (10) to the arm assembly (14) and which is supplied with liquid concrete.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2007
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventors: Dietmar Fuegel, Martin Mayer
  • Publication number: 20090232623
    Abstract: According to embodiments described in the specification, an apparatus and method for lifting a roof onto a dwelling. A roof hoist with hooks and a frame is provided. Each hook is configured to slide under a portion of a roof and thereby support a portion of the weight of the roof. The frame is provided with locomotion means to facilitate positioning over a roof. A portion of the frame may be removed and lifted with the roof by overhead lifting means. The hooks are attached to the removeable portion of the frame. The roof may be deposited on a dwelling, and the hooks may then be disengaged. The removeable portion of the frame, along with the hooks, may be then be lowered and recoupled with the remainder of the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2008
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Applicant: The Mattamy Corporation
    Inventors: Mark Munro, Chase David Wismer, Steven Stairs, Thomas Patrick Hanlon
  • Publication number: 20090226282
    Abstract: A truss handling apparatus has a plurality of channels and retaining devices to retain a truss for transporting and installing of trusses on building structures. The truss handling apparatus interacts with the forks of a lift. The truss handling apparatus has a base with a platform and the plurality of channels. The retaining device of the truss handling apparatus engages the sloping side rafters or top of a truss.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Inventor: Michael Starr
  • Publication number: 20090180843
    Abstract: A storage apparatus and system, especially for kitchens. The apparatus includes a stationary counter portion, a moveable island riser, a lift assembly, and a guide assembly including vertically mounted guide shafts that support guide bearings situated in a housing mounted to the moveable island riser. Electronic sensors protect against operation of the lift assembly when interfering objects are sensed, and then lift assembly operation is interrupted. The moveable island riser provides cabinet space or shelving and may be provided with electrical outlets for use with common kitchen appliances.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2008
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventors: Kathleen Jackson, Ken Jackson
  • Publication number: 20090169339
    Abstract: A placing device (1) for placing building elements (2) in constructing a multi-storey building comprises a lifting means (4) for lifting a prefabricated building element (2), a moving means (7) for moving the placing device (1) into and out of a lower storey of the multi-storey building, the lower storey being arranged under an upper storey, a rotary means (8) for rotating the building element (2) about a normal to a floor plane of the lower storey, a vertical adjustment means (20) for vertically adjusting the building element (2), and a control means (14) for controlling the placing device (1) for placing the building element (2) according to a predetermined pattern. A building system and a method of constructing a multi-storey building are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2007
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventors: Andreas Simfors, Ove Lagerqvist, Carl Jonsson, Håkan Camper, Jonas Gräslund, Jörgen Larsson, Mikael Fritzon, Per Tureson, Per-Ola Jönsson, Pertt Johansson, Rikard Espling, Roland Kindberg, Sven Junkers, Thomas Axelsson
  • Patent number: 7527466
    Abstract: A machine-liftable, open-framework, cage-like transporter for lifting and maneuvering horizontal structural beam elements, and the like, to appropriate installation elevations at and from the side of a plural-story building frame which is under construction. The transporter acts as a building-frame construction aid in the form of a worker-carrying, liftable, open-cage transporter including a volume-defining cage in which one or more worker(s) can station and ride, with this transporter possessing an overhead, fully exposed-from-below, support deck on which structural frame components, such as beam components, can be placed and supported in horizontal dispositions for lifting by the transporter to the appropriate elevation(s) in an emerging building frame which is being assembled. The open, overhead framework of the transporter promotes easy conveyance of such beam components to appropriate heights for delivery, precision aligning, locating, positioning and assembly within a building frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Inventor: Robert J. Simmons
  • Publication number: 20090038258
    Abstract: An automated brick laying system (10) for constructing a building from a plurality of bricks (16) comprises a robot (12) provided with a brick laying and adhesive applying head (18), a measuring system (13), and a controller (14) that provides control data to the robot (12) to lay the bricks (16) at predetermined locations. The measuring system (13) measures in real time the position of the head (18) and produces position data for the controller (14). The controller (14) produces control data on the basis of a comparison between the position data and a predetermined or pre-programmed position of the head (18) to lay a brick (16) at a predetermined position for the building under construction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2007
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Applicant: Gold Wing Nominees Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Mark Joseph Pivac, Michael Barrington Wood
  • Publication number: 20080301966
    Abstract: A system for installing lap siding includes a stationary installation tool used in conjunction with a moveable installation tool to enable a single worker to efficiently and consistently achieve a high quality installation with parallel planks and a uniform exposure. The stationary installation tool features a planar face, a first stationary edge support, a second stationary edge support and an attachment component such as an aperture for receiving a nail or screw. The first stationary edge support and second stationary edge support define a determined overlap or exposure. The moveable installation tool has a planar face, a first moveable edge support and a second moveable edge support. The first moveable edge support and second moveable edge support are configured to define a determined overlap or exposure consistent with that defined by the first stationary edge support and second stationary edge support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2007
    Publication date: December 11, 2008
    Inventor: Bruce Walther
  • Publication number: 20080289287
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a facility for manufacturing non-roadable buildings. The facility includes an enclosed area having a roof, a plurality of bays for positioning the non-roadable buildings therein, each of the plurality of bays configured to have one non-roadable building positioned therein, a plurality of movable manufacturing areas configured to manufacture elements for manufacturing and a lifting device positioned within the enclosed area and configured to move the elements for manufacturing of the non-roadable building through the facility, including movement of the elements from each of the plurality of movable manufacturing areas to each of the plurality of bays.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2007
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Inventors: James Rhodes, Matthew Priddy
  • Patent number: 7422096
    Abstract: A conveyor for transporting materials or people from a first location to a second location has an elongated boom having a first end, a second end, a top surface, and a bottom surface; a conveyor mechanism such as an endless belt, chain, or ladder that is operably attached to the elongated boom; and a plank platform operably attached to the boom adjacent to the bottom surface of the boom, wherein the platform is selectively pivotable from the boom and capable of providing a walking surface for the person unloading the conveyor. The platform may additionally or alternatively be at least partially extendible from one end of the elongated boom. The conveyor may be operably attached to a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Inventor: Anthony J. Crookston
  • Patent number: 7111437
    Abstract: For producing wall panels (8) from bricks (1), a line-up path (4) on which bricks to be masoned are deposited in a row with a gripper, a transfer device (10) for transporting the brick row from the line-up path (4) to a bricklaying station (7) for masoning the wall panel, and a device for moving apart the bricks to form vertical joints (9) between the bricks (1) of the wall panel (8) are provided. The gripper depositing the bricks (1) on the line-up path (4) is formed by a depiling gripper (3) that depiles the bricks (1) of a pile (2) in rows with its two longitudinal grippers (13, 14). The device for moving apart the bricks (1) is formed by transverse grippers (21, 21a) disposed on the depiling gripper (3) between the longitudinal grippers (13, 14), said transverse grippers (21, 21a) individually holding the bricks (1) of the brick row depiled with the longitudinal grippers (13, 14) and being formed to be movable in the longitudinal direction of the depiling gripper (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Inventor: Dieter Ainedter
  • Patent number: 7112026
    Abstract: A device for lifting and supporting a cabinet during installation thereof and including elongated support legs and elongated dowels connected to the support legs for preventing the movement of the support legs and for maintaining the device at a substantially stable positioned during operating conditions. Side panels are secured to the upper end of the support legs for defining a cavity therebetween, and a moveable section is disposed substantially medially of the side panels. There is a pulley mechanism for selectively lifting the movable section in a substantially vertical direction between raised and lowered positions that is disposed within the cavity and is anchored to the moveable section and the side panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Inventor: Roy E. Foster
  • Patent number: 7101136
    Abstract: Apparatus for lifting and transporting drywall panels has a pair of panel-supporting legs of square tubing attachable to side rails of a lift platform. Each leg is connected to the rails by an upper bracket at the top of the leg and a lower bracket at a middle location. A panel-receiving U-shaped channel is located on the opposite side of the legs, away from the rails. The lower bracket has a standoff member projecting the bottom of the leg outward at an angle. A roller at the base of the channel provides low-friction rolling contact with an inserted panel, and a groove in this roller serves to guide the panel. Rollers at the tops of the legs and elsewhere are placed to keep panels from being damaged by contact with the legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Inventors: Charles T. Ray, David W. Peterson
  • Patent number: 7008161
    Abstract: A material transport system for delivering and dispensing a large capacity of materials at a construction site using a plurality of removable carriages, each bearing a roll of material, mounted on a movable frame. The frame comprises a pair of dual powered axles each driving either a set of drive flanged rollers, or a set of conveyors, for moving the system along purlins, or joists, of a building. The flanged rollers are used when dispensing of material to a side wall of the building is desired and the building is roofless, and when dispensing of material to an end wall of the building is desired and the building is roofed. The conveyors, which are removably mounted to the underside of the material transport system, are used for dispensing material to a side wall when the building is roofed, and when dispensing material to an end wall when the building is roofless.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: Therm-All, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Wagner
  • Patent number: 7004705
    Abstract: A wheeled dolly for transporting prefab homes or the like and having at least two outboard wheel means spaced apart a distance for normal road travel, and further having at least two inboard wheel means on opposite lateral sides of a longitudinal axis of the dolly whereby when a narrow roadway is encountered the operator can position the inboard wheel means thereon such that either or both of the outboard wheel means may actually be suspended off the sides of the roadway until the roadway regains a normal width, and wherein a steering mechanism is provided to synchronously pivot all said wheel means thru a steering angle whereby the dolly and load can be steered straight ahead or in sideways angular directions to avoid obstacles and to allow maneuvering of a long load around corners which are too sharp for conventional transport means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Inventor: Jerry W. Stanley
  • Patent number: 6966418
    Abstract: A conveyor for transporting materials from a first location to a second location has an elongated boom having a first end, a second end, a top surface, and a bottom surface; a conveyor mechanism such as an endless belt or chain that is operably attached to the elongated boom; and a plank platform operably attached to the boom adjacent to the bottom surface of the boom, wherein the platform is selectively pivotable from the boom and capable of providing a walking surface for the person unloading the conveyor. The platform may additionally or alternatively be at least partially extendible from one end of the elongated boom. The conveyor may be operably attached to a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Inventor: Anthony J. Crookston
  • Publication number: 20040197165
    Abstract: A machine-liftable, open-framework, cage-like transporter for lifting and maneuvering horizontal structural beam elements, and the like, to appropriate installation elevations at and from the side of a plural-story building frame which is under construction. The transporter acts as a building-frame construction aid in the form of a worker-carrying, liftable, open-cage transporter including a volume-defining cage in which one or more worker(s) can station and ride, with this transporter possessing an overhead, fully exposed-from-below, support deck on which structural frame components, such as beam components, can be placed and supported in horizontal dispositions for lifting by the transporter to the appropriate elevation(s) in an emerging building frame which is being assembled. The open, overhead framework of the transporter promotes easy conveyance of such beam components to appropriate heights for delivery, precision aligning, locating, positioning and assembly within a building frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventor: Robert J. Simmons
  • Publication number: 20040175256
    Abstract: A material transport system for delivering and dispensing a large capacity of materials at a construction site using a plurality of removable carriages, each bearing a roll of material, mounted on a movable frame. The frame comprises a pair of dual powered axles each driving either a set of drive flanged rollers, or a set of conveyors, for moving the system along purlins, or joists, of a building. The flanged rollers are used when dispensing of material to a side wall of the building is desired and the building is roofless, and when dispensing of material to an end wall of the building is desired and the building is roofed. The conveyors, which are removably mounted to the underside of the material transport system, are used for dispensing material to a side wall when the building is roofed, and when dispensing material to an end wall when the building is roofless.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Publication date: September 9, 2004
    Applicant: Therm-All, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Wagner
  • Publication number: 20040156698
    Abstract: An adjustable ceiling panel lifting apparatus for installing ceiling panels without using ladders. The adjustable ceiling panel lifting apparatus includes lift support assemblies each including a support base member and a pair of support rail members being spaced apart and extending upwardly from the support base members; and also includes wheel assemblies upon which the lift support assemblies are mounted with each of the wheel assemblies including a bracket member and a wheel being rotatably mounted to the bracket member; and further includes lift members being movably mounted upon the lift support assemblies; and also includes lift actuating members being supported upon the lift support assemblies and being engageable to the lift member for raising and lowering the lift members; and further includes elongate support members interconnecting the lift support assemblies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Inventor: Harry Mingoes
  • Patent number: 6773218
    Abstract: An adjustable ceiling panel lifting apparatus for installing ceiling panels without using ladders. The adjustable ceiling panel lifting apparatus includes lift support assemblies each including a support base member and a pair of support rail members being spaced apart and extending upwardly from the support base members; and also includes wheel assemblies upon which the lift support assemblies are mounted with each of the wheel assemblies including a bracket member and a wheel being rotatably mounted to the bracket member; and further includes lift members being movably mounted upon the lift support assemblies; and also includes lift actuating members being supported upon the lift support assemblies and being engageable to the lift member for raising and lowering the lift members; and further includes elongate support members interconnecting the lift support assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Inventor: Harry Mingoes
  • Publication number: 20040052616
    Abstract: A wheeled dolly for transporting prefab homes or the like and having at least two outboard wheel means spaced apart a distance for normal road travel, and further having at least two inboard wheel means on opposite lateral sides of a longitudinal axis of the dolly whereby when a narrow roadway is encountered the operator can position the inboard wheel means thereon such that either or both of the outboard wheel means may actually be suspended off the sides of the roadway until the roadway regains a normal width, and wherein a steering mechanism is provided to synchronously pivot all said wheel means thru a steering angle whereby the dolly and load can be steered straight ahead or in sideways angular directions to avoid obstacles and to allow maneuvering of a long load around corners which are too sharp for conventional transport means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2002
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventor: Jerry W. Stanley
  • Patent number: 6607341
    Abstract: Apparatus for facilitating the installation of a modular cabinet assembly on a wall includes two adjustable height lifting and leveling assemblies each having a base portion positionable on the floor. An upper portion of each assembly has spaced structures useable for receiving sections of two elongated, horizontally spaced apart support members which extend parallel to one another and to the wall. With the assemblies in a horizontally spaced relationship with one another and secured to the wall, and a plurality of cabinet modules resting on top side portions of the support members, the modules are secured to one another, and the resulting assembly is leveled about axes perpendicular and parallel to the wall by using leveling portions of the assemblies to vary the heights of the support member sections disposed in the receiving sections. The leveled cabinet assembly is then anchored to the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Inventor: Robert A. Wade
  • Patent number: 6575685
    Abstract: The invention pertains to a hoisting platform system which is usable in the construction of high rise buildings Included in the system are two I-beams which are mounted on a higher floor of the building under construction which has been finished already. The two I-beams are mounted in a cantilevered fashion with one section jutting forward from the higher floor and another section being attached to the higher floor by several post jacks on top of the I-beams and against the ceiling of the next higher floor. On the forward section there is mounted a pair of A-frames having a cross beam mounted at their tops which in turn has a winch mounted thereon. A movable transfer deck is located between the I's of the two I-beams and can be moved to a position interior of the building once a load is placed thereon. The winch can also be located on the higher floor and idler sheaves can be used on top of the cross beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Inventor: Kern C. A. Baxter, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6370837
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system and method for laying masonry blocks in multiple block units. The system comprises a mortar injection device, a block hoist apparatus and a mortar applying apparatus, The mortar injection device includes a mortar feed, mortar dispensing chutes and a block tamper. The mortar dispensing chutes are positioned to inject mortar into gaps between adjacent blocks in the multiple block unit, to create a mortar joint between each block. The block tamper comprises a vibratory roller and/or a series of vibrating pistons attached to the mortar injection device, and facilitates substantially uniform settling of the mortar in the block gaps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Anthony B. McMahon
    Inventors: Anthony Basil McMahon, Patrick James McMahon, Thomas Joseph Noone
  • Publication number: 20010016156
    Abstract: A carriage for the transport and installation of heavy doors and other construction panels includes a door-holding frame that is pivotally attached to a wheeled chassis. Independent drive mechanisms provide accurate control over the elevation, tilt, and roll of a door panel held by the frame, and effect a precisely controlled, lateral movement of the panel relative to the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Publication date: August 23, 2001
    Inventor: James E. Echternacht
  • Patent number: 6241447
    Abstract: A carriage for the transport and installation of heavy doors and other construction panels includes a door-holding frame that is pivotally attached to a wheeled chassis. Independent drive mechanisms provide accurate control over the elevation, tilt, and roll of a door panel held by the frame, and effect a precisely controlled, lateral movement of the panel relative to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Inventor: James E. Echternacht
  • Patent number: 6238159
    Abstract: A cabinet installation device includes cabinet support blocks slidably arranged on a pair of rails for providing controlled movement in either direction in the horizontal plane. The support blocks and the rails are supported on a rectangular piston that is vertically controlled by means of a hydraulic jack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventor: Steve Pappas
  • Patent number: 6226955
    Abstract: A telescopic turret crane (126) is detachably connectable to a pedestal (118) that is incorporated into a concrete building structure that is under construction. The telescopic turret crane is provided with a base (122) that is detachably connected to the pedestal (118). The same pedestal (118) is sometimes used for supporting an articulated concrete placement boom (126). This boom (126) includes the similar base that is detachably connectable to the same pedestal (118). The concrete placement boom (126) is attached to the pedestal (118) and is used to pour a new upper floor in the building. Following this use, the articulated concrete placement boom (126) is detached from the pedestal (118) and is moved away from the pedestal (118). Then, the telescopic turret crane is brought to the pedestal (118) and is connected to the pedestal (118). The telescopic turret crane is used during the performance of tasks on or above the newly poured floor, in the vicinity of the pedestal (118).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: Jerry L. Lorrigan
  • Patent number: 6062802
    Abstract: A paver installer (10) is described for receiving and carrying a paver from one location to another location. The paver installer has frame (12) comprising a pair of spaced apart frame members (18) and a longitudinal axis disposed between. To add strength, at least one brace member (24) is disposed between the frame members. Proximate the lower portion of the frame is a wheel assembly(26). So that pavers (62) can be place on pedestals (72) having varying heights above grade, the paver installer has a U-shaped platform (46) slidably mounted to the facing away from the wheel assembly. Substantially cylindrically shaped sleeves (54) are mounted to the platform which respectively slidably engage the frame members. To move the platform along the longitudinal axis, a self locking screw lift (34) is mounted to the at least one brace member and the platform. A shim (60) is provided on the platform to prevent damage to the paver and provide an adjustable fit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Inventor: Gregory L. Aenchbacher
  • Patent number: 5899650
    Abstract: An improved slab cart is disclosed for the transport of a slab including a slab of marble, granite, stone, glass, and heavy objects. A first frame assembly attaches to a first end of a slab and a second assembly attaches to a second end of a slab. The first and second frame assemblies are coupled to the slab in such a manner as to support the slab in an upright position. The first and second frame assemblies each have a pair of elongated frame members and wheels mounted thereto for further supporting the slab and allowing the slab to roll freely without damaging surfaces upon which the slab cart may roll. The slab cart of the present invention is further provided with clamps coupled to the frame assemblies for engaging the slab in clamping relation. A retaining pin couples the ends of each frame member of each frame assembly preventing the frame members from spreading when the clamps are engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1999
    Inventor: Travis L. Collins
  • Patent number: 5870872
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for applying ceiling panels to a light tunnel is provided. The applicator hereof includes a gantry, a frame, and a shifter for vertically shifting said frame relative to said gantry. The frame is presents a pair of generally arcuate spaced-apart rails each having a pair of terminal feet, with a bridge interconnecting the feet. The gantry includes a plurality of towers each having a pair of upright tower legs. The tower legs are attached to a base and preferably further supported by braces to maintain an upright configuration. A shifter is provided to operatively interconnect the gantry and the frame for raising the latter and the panel placed thereon into juxtaposition with a framework of the light tunnel. In accordance with the method, the applicator is placed within the framework of the light tunnel, a panel is placed on the platform, and the platform is shifted to place the panel in position for attachment to the framework.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1999
    Assignee: Stuppy, Incorporated
    Inventors: Robert T. Hinnen, Norman Jamison
  • Patent number: 5704755
    Abstract: There is provided a panel lifting apparatus for detachable attachment to a panel lifting hoist or trolley. The apparatus comprises a primary support member, a clamp for gripping engagement with a panel to be lifted, a control device for actuating the clamp via a cable linking the clamp and the control device. When a panel is to be lifted from a position off the apparatus and onto the hoist or trolley, the clamp is brought into engagement with the panel and the control device is actuated to draw the panel onto the hoist or trolley enabling the support and carriage of same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Assignee: Plasterboard Lifting Tools Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Thomas Francis Jesperson
  • Patent number: 5688095
    Abstract: A building and method and apparatus for making a building at a job-site location is disclosed. The roof, side walls and end walls are made of similar skin and frame panels that are roll-formed on the job site, cut to length, have holes formed therein and are crimped to form bends in the roof and side wall panels to form interfitting portions at the corner of the roof and side walls. The panels are placed on a framing jig and seamed at connecting flanges and gussets are secured at inside corners to form a roof and side wall building section. These building sections may be a single skin panel and frame panel or multiples thereof. A multiple of two is shown. A roof truss may be fastened to the roof section for wider buildings. The framing jig is adjustable in size and shape to form buildings of different heights and widths. The framing jig shown is lifted by actuating hydraulic cylinders and a formed building section is seamed to a previously raised building section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Inventor: Gary A. Knudson
  • Patent number: 5660518
    Abstract: Dolly apparatus for hauling loads on a pitched surface includes frame structure secured to wheels, with the wheels being adjustable in height so that the dolly may be moved along a pitched surface with the load maintained in a proper horizontal orientation. Different embodiments are disclosed, which embodiments may be used for different types of loads. One embodiment is a relatively simple embodiment which may be used for a relatively light load, and a second embodiment is a relatively complicated embodiment which may be used to transport heavier loads. The second embodiment includes wheels which may be oriented ninety degrees for moving in two directions, for example for moving a load to a specific location in one direction and then moving it in a second direction for specifically positioning the load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 26, 1997
    Inventor: James W. Meier
  • Patent number: 5599152
    Abstract: A multicomponent attachment apparatus for a movable working device which is detachably attached to the front end of the working device, including a device-sided adapter in order to connect the attachment to the working device, a building component-sided supporting member with holders to pick up, move, hold and deliver a building component, and intermediate pieces between the adapter and the supporting member, whereby the intermediate pieces are connected movably together and to the adapter and the supporting member and include a lifting module (1) which is connected to the working device and can be vertically adjusted and fixed in position at any desired height with respect to the working device by a lifting drive; a sliding module (4) movably mounted to opposite sides of the front of the lifting module (1) and movable by a sliding drive and stoppable in any desired side position; a spacing module (10) mounted to the front of the sliding module is movable in a longitudinal direction of the working device by m
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1997
    Inventor: Paul Lingen
  • Patent number: 5489032
    Abstract: An article manipulator system which is suitable for fixed and translative mounting at work sites including on scaffold assemblies, providing for alignment compensation for scaffold non-alignment, providing for limited movement about two vertical axes, providing movement along a trolley track in a generally horizontal direction, and a gripper for grasping heavy work objects such as masonry construction units. A control handle provides for signals for raising and lowering a lift cable and signals for locking and unlocking brakes on said pivot arms and upon said trolley track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1996
    Assignee: International Masonry Institute
    Inventors: Riley H. Mayhall, Jr., C. Paul Miller, John E. Lorenz, Riley H. Mayhall, III, Mark A. Smith
  • Patent number: 5419669
    Abstract: An automated installation for lining a wall of an enclosure with brickwork is presented. This installation comprises a brick laying robot, a depalletizing module, a lifting module, a supply module and a centering ring module. At the level of the centering module which is installed on a working platform, a device for the sequential transfer of the bricks transfers the bricks into a centering position at the periphery of the working platform. In this centering position, the bricks are centered before the brick-laying robot comes to take them up.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 30, 1995
    Assignee: Paul Wurth S.A.
    Inventors: Andre Kremer, Victor Kremer, Jeannot Konsbruck, Jean-Jacques Willieme
  • Patent number: 5383758
    Abstract: Apparatus for positioning a load in any orientation. The apparatus includes a base with an attached lift arm that has a plurality of members slidably interconnected. At least one of the plurality of members is pivotally attached to the base, and a rotatable connector is attached to at least one other of the plurality of members opposite the base. A carriage is provided at the distal end of the lift arm. The carriage includes a carrier pivotally attached to the rotatable connector and a track slidably connected to the carrier. Straps and clamps secure a load such as a pipe to the carrier. The apparatus also includes a hydraulic power system to position the lift arm and the carriage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1995
    Assignee: Lift Mates, Inc.
    Inventor: William E. Patrick
  • Patent number: 5378103
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a swing-type door transporting and elevating apparatus. In particular, the present invention relates to an apparatus employed to facilitate the transporting of a swing-type door to a door jamb in which the door is to be hung, and is then employed in elevating the door to a desired height level to the jamb to interfit and pivotally connect hinge leaf knuckles between the door and jamb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1995
    Inventors: Gregory R. Rolnicki, Joseph M. Rolnicki
  • Patent number: 5312218
    Abstract: Apparatus for lifting objects into preformed openings in buildings. These openings can be recessed. The apparatus has a frame which has a head section and a tail section. The head section and tail section are rotably mounted to each other. A backstand is provided which is attached to the head section for preventing the objects to be lifted from moving as the objects are transported. Supports or forks are also provided which protrude from the head section and are used to support the objects to the transported. The apparatus has a leveling system which includes movable counterweights attached to chains. The movable counterweights balance the effect of the objects that the apparatus supports, keeping it level in the horizontal direction. The backstand can be folded down into the head section and the tail section folded onto the head section. Prior to or after use, as the apparatus is a lightweight, compact system, it can be transported in a pickup truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 17, 1994
    Inventors: Rodger D. Pratt, Michael J. Sparling
  • Patent number: 5265742
    Abstract: A hoist apparatus for lifting objects up the side of a building or the like and swinging the objects onto the roof or other surface. The hoist can be erected and operated by one person and can be folded into a compact, easily moved, package. A pair of spaced triangular leg assemblies are typically clamped to the edged of the roof parapet in a spaced relationship. Each triangular assembly when installed for this use is made up of a first leg formed by one beam that is a vertical portion of the clamp and a flexible extension, such as a chain, extending from the lower end of the beam, a second leg secured at one end to the free end of the extension and a third leg pivotally connected between the second ends of the first and second legs, forming a triangle with an acute angle between the second and third legs. A cross beam extends between the second and third leg connections and is adapted to carry a hoist, typically a block and tackle arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1993
    Inventors: Donald D. Stenger, Fred E. Stenger
  • Patent number: 5197847
    Abstract: The device mounted at the end of an operating arm comprises one or more suckers for supporting objects, for example refractory bricks for the brick-lining of a metallurgical converter, means for linear and angular displacement of the suckers, sensors for monitoring and controlling automatically the means of displacement in order to grip and position the objects in a predetermined location, after immobilization of the operating arm. The suckers are provided on a sucker-carrying plate which in its turn is supported by a pair of blocks which can slide in transverse slide bars of a carriage which comprises a pair of longitudinal slide bars, perpendicular to the transverse slide bars and housed in sliding fashion in a central support attached to the end of the operating arm with a degree of angular freedom and a degree of linear freedom orthogonal to the axes of the longitudinal and transverse slide bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1993
    Assignee: Paul Wurth S.A.
    Inventors: Norbert Kremer, Georges Beck, Andre Bock, Charles Hennico
  • Patent number: 5184929
    Abstract: A material handling apparatus for transferring a load of material to a work-in-storage position and unloading the material onto a floor such as in an opening of a building under construction is disclosed. The apparatus includes a platform. Extension members are supported by the platform and protrude forwardly and outwardly from the front side of the platform for protruding in an opening such as a building under construction. A material transfer is mounted to the platform for supporting a load of material thereon and is moveable on the platform onto the extension members to an extended unloading position where the material transfer is supported by the extension member to permit the unloading of a load of material supported thereon without the necessity of entering onto the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1993
    Inventor: Jay G. Reynolds
  • Patent number: 5184934
    Abstract: A gripping device for use in combination with a front-end loader for lifting and transporting heavy objects, comprising a slot-entering jaw means, second jaw means, jaw adjusting means to effect movement of one of said slot-entering jaw means and said second jaw means relative to other of said jaw means, and loader cooperation means by which said device is adapted to cooperate with the loader. The device is particularly useful for removing slabs of concrete from a pre-cut concrete floor, such as found in multi-storey parking garages, during demolition or rehabilitation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1993
    Inventor: Antonio Gallo
  • Patent number: 5127791
    Abstract: An attachment to the boom of a boom-type vehicle is for lifting and supporting a panel assembly of the type having a panel and a purline. The purline is securely attached to the panel and disposed at an angle thereto. The attachment comprises an attachment connectable to a forward end of the boom of the vehicle for supporting at least a portion of the purline and at least a portion of the panel. The attachment provides selective movement between the purline, the panel, and the boom for permitting the panel assembly to be maneuvered in the desired manner at the construction site. A panel handler assembly is connectable to a forward portion of a mast assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1992
    Inventor: Carl P. Attman
  • Patent number: 5118247
    Abstract: A rack for attachment to the backboard of a forklift has a very long laterally extended beam with forwardly extended, adjustable tangs, the rack being designed primarily for use in engaging wide sections of roof ordinarily having a truss along one long ede with the purpose being to safely and conveniently lift each roof section into place adjacent the previous roof section which was similarly put in place, and so forth, during the construction phase of a building such as a warehouse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1992
    Inventor: Mathew N. Royden
  • Patent number: 5088874
    Abstract: A transporter for a length of highway barriers includes a series of barrier transporting units, each having at least one pair of wheels positioned to straddle a length of highway barriers, at least one engaging device configured to engage one of the barriers, and at least one lifting device coupled to the engaging device to lift the engaging device and the engaged barriers. Articulating couplings interconnect axially adjacent transporting units to form a train configured to straddle the length of highway barriers such as the train can be moved over a length of highway barriers to be transported. Two tractors are connected to the train, one at each end of the train in line with the train to move the train. This transporter can be used by driving it over a length of highway barriers, using the engaging and lifting devices to lift the barriers, and then driving the transporter and the engaged barriers to a new location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1992
    Assignee: Energy Absorption Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: John P. Quittner
  • Patent number: 5044858
    Abstract: A lift vehicle for moving mine roof supports has a main drive section with a forward lift platform and a rearward articulated battery section. The articulating connection between the main section and the battery section has a clevis and pin assembly and a rotatable sleeve bearing connection. The sleeve bearing is rigidly connected to the clevis and pin assembly and rotatably connected to the battery section. The lift platform is rotatable about a horizontal axis to give it a tilting capability and is rotatable about a vertical axis to assume angled positions to either side of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1991
    Assignee: Simmons-Rand Company
    Inventors: Melvin E. Scott, Alfred D. McCue
  • Patent number: 5042222
    Abstract: Drywall sheets and other construction materials may be more easily transferred into and within a partially completed building shell by the use of a drywall slideboard. The drywall slideboard consists of upper and lower hinge plates separated by a horizontal hinge. The upper hinge plate supports a removable top plate, which in turn supports a slide plate of a relatively low friction coefficient material. The lower hinge plate is supported by retaining members which permit the drywall slideboard to be temporarily installed upon a section of lumber stock such as a two by four for use, or alternatively the top plate and slide plate may be easily removed from the remainder of the slideboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1991
    Assignees: C. John Rew, Rick J. Rew
    Inventor: John F. Guthrie
  • Patent number: RE35942
    Abstract: A brick placing machine consisting of a horizontally disposed substantially rectangular rectangle the length of which corresponds approximately to the maximum width or height of any brick panel to be formed, a substantially horizontal mould on which a brick panel can be formed arranged adjacent to the receptacle the receptacle being constructed to receive bricks constituting part of a panel, the bricks being arranged in the receptacle in a configuration in which they are to be placed on the mould, the receptacle having in it clamps for clamping the bricks in their correct relative positions with appropriate spaces between bricks and between courses of bricks for the reception of mortar, the receptacle being movable to a position over the mould in which position the clamps are released to leave the bricks on the mould in the desired position, the receptacle then being moved clear of the bricks placed on the mould and moved relative to the mould so that the receptacle can be suitable refilled with bricks and th
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: Panelbrick Industries Pty. Ltd.
    Inventors: Phillip Boot, Dare Hurst, Robert Lasseter