Abstract: A method of providing turning path guidance for a vehicle includes determining parameters of a turn region of a roadway using a controller of the turning path guidance system. The parameters include lane data and turning angle data. Positions of objects in and around the turn region of the roadway are detected using a sensor system of the vehicle. A map of the turn region is generated based on the lane data, turning angle data and that shows the detected objects using the controller. A turning path for the vehicle for navigating the turn in the turn region that avoids the detected objects is determined using the controller. The map with the turning path is displayed on a display screen in the vehicle.

Abstract: A motorcycle transporting assembly for transporting a motorcycle includes a frame that is positionable to lie on a bed of a cargo vehicle. A frame support is coupled between the outward members and the frame support is positioned adjacent to the distal end of each of the outward members. A pair of retainers is provided and each of the retainers is slidably coupled to the frame. Each of the retainers abuts the respective wheel well thereby inhibiting the frame from is urged rearwardly out of the bed. A cradle is coupled to the frame to receive a wheel of a motorcycle thereby facilitating the motorcycle to be retained in an upright position in the bed of the vehicle for transporting the motorcycle.

Abstract: A handling device for tires having at least one extension arm, wherein the at least one extension arm is secured with a first extension arm pivot location to a receiving member in such a manner that a pivoting of the at least one extension arm relative to the receiving member is supported and the at least one extension arm has a second extension arm pivot location so that at least one gripping tool is coupled to the at least one extension arm. At least a second gripping tool is coupled to the second extension arm pivot location, and the at least two gripping tools can be pivoted relative to at least one extension arm pivot location. The invention further relates to a method for carrying out a loading and unloading cycle with tires of a tire vulcanization machine.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to a system and method for changing tires. A tire-changing device can comprise a frame and a tire holder. The frame can comprise a U-shaped frame and an L-shaped frame. The U-shaped frame can comprise a base and a pair of shafts. Each of the shafts can be connected at both ends of the base. The L-shaped frame can comprise a short beam and a long beam. One end of the short beam can be attached at the bottom of the long beam. The other end of the short beam can be connected at the middle portion of the base. The tire holder can be attachable with the L-shaped frame. The tire holder can comprise a base plate, a plurality of prongs, and an L-shaped connector. The base plate can comprise a disc and a plurality of blades. The disc can be placed at the center of the blades. Each of the prongs can be attached at the top edge portion of each of the blades. The L-shaped connector can comprise a vertical member and a horizontal member.

Abstract: A self-loading mini dolly includes a dolly frame; a front dolly arm carried by the dolly frame; a wheeled front axle carried by the front dolly arm; a front dolly platform carried by the front dolly arm, the front dolly platform selectively deployable between lowered and raised positions; a rear dolly arm carried by the dolly frame in spaced-apart relationship to the front dolly arm; a wheeled rear axle carried by the rear dolly arm; and a rear dolly platform carried by the rear dolly arm, the rear dolly platform selectively deployable between lowered and raised positions.

Abstract: A vehicle wheel dolly is provided that includes a well for positioning and capturing a tire and wheel assembly of an automobile, the well including a generally flat first plate, a first side wall, a second side wall, a rear wall, a second plate, a third plate, a plurality of casters secured to said wheel dolly and wherein a first set of casters of said plurality of casters are secured to said second plate and said third plate near said rear wall and a second set of casters of said plurality of casters are secured to said second plate and said third plate, said second set of casters configured to be positioned on said second plate and said third plate to create a fulcrum thereby enabling said vehicle wheel dolly to pivot about said second set of casters as the wheel and tire assembly enter said well.

Abstract: An agricultural system for conveying product to a holding container is provided. One agricultural system includes a hopper configured to receive product and a conveyor configured to move the product from the hopper to a holding container. The hopper is configured to fold under the conveyor into a storage position that directs an opening in the hopper toward a soil surface.

Abstract: A wheel handler for handling a wheel in a confined space, the wheel handler comprising: a connector for connecting the wheel handler to a drive vehicle; and a handling device that in use is adapted to support the wheel, wherein at least a portion of the handling device is moveable in a lateral direction relative to the connector such that a wheel supported by the handling device is moved in a lateral direction relative to the connector.

Abstract: A robot programming device capable of reducing the operation of a robot in the field required for generating a program for palletizing operation, and shortening a time to generate the palletizing program. The robot programming device includes a storing part for storing three-dimensional models of the plurality kinds of units, a conveyor, a recognition device, a robot and a plurality of pallets; a layout making part for making a layout, in a virtual space, of the three-dimensional models stored in the storing part; a displaying part for displaying the layout made by the layout making part; an information setting part for setting information regarding each component displayed on the displaying part; and a program generating part for generating a palletizing program for the robot based on the layout of the three-dimensional models and the information set by the information setting part.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for positioning a tired wheel 14 onto an upright rotary wheel holder unit 1 of a tire changer machine. A first frame 3 is driven by a first actuator 8 to move the wheel 14 between a lower position and an upper position from which the wheel 14 is brought onto the rotary wheel holder unit 1. A second frame 2 is connected with a second actuator 9 to be driven between a lower position to an end position above the upper position to remove the wheel 14 from the first frame 3, and to support the wheel 14 with the wheel axis 15 in alignment with a rotation axis 16 of the rotary wheel holder unit 1. The second frame 2 is lowered by the action of the second actuator 9 for positioning the tired wheel 14 onto the rotary wheel holder unit 1.

Abstract: An airplane tug for receiving a landing gear of an airplane. Tug comprises a chassis for receiving the landing gear, a propulsion arrangement for moving tug, force sensor(s) for measuring a force exerted by the chassis on the gear due to a speed differential between tug and airplane, and a controller for altering movement parameter(s) of tug for maintaining the force below a value. Propulsion arrangement comprises a variable angle swash plate hydraulic pump coupled to a variable angle swash plate hydraulic motor and to a bypass path valve such that fluid circulates between the pump and motor to activate the arrangement to increase the speed and/or traction force when bypass path is in a closed state, and the fluid circulates across the motor via the valve to reduce a rotational speed and/or traction force of the tug when the path is in an opened state.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for automatically removing pieces of luggage that have different surface properties and dimensions and getting the pieces of luggage ready for further transport by means of a gripper that is hingedly connected to a robot arm is described. The method includes: a) moving the gripper and the container that is to be emptied close together; b) determining the first piece of luggage to be removed; (c) gripping the piece of luggage using a horizontal suction elements (3) and withdrawing the luggage horizontally; d) if the vertical suction elements (4) are not yet able to sufficiently grip the luggage, the vertical suction elements (4) are repositioned and turned off, the vertical suction elements (5) are repositioned, and then turned on to re-grip the piece of luggage.

Abstract: An adjustable fixture comprises a clamping board used to mount a workpiece thereon, a hollow telescopic sleeve, a latching assembly, a telescopic shaft, and a fastening seat. The clamping board is fastened to the telescopic sleeve. The telescopic sleeve slidably receives the telescopic shaft therein. The latching assembly is mounted on the telescopic shaft and resists an interior wall of the telescopic sleeve to position the telescopic shaft relative to the telescopic sleeve. The telescopic shaft is rotatably mounted on the fastening seat.

Abstract: An apparatus, system and method allows for the towing of a vehicle. Specifically, the apparatus cradles an exposed wheel hub of a vehicle having had a tire removed. The wheel hub sits within the cradle or well, while the apparatus is disposed on a tow truck or a tow dolly. The tow truck or tow dolly safely moves the vehicle without damaging the vehicle.

Abstract: A control arm skate of synthetic material facilitates movement of a disabled vehicle. A sliding block has two inclined ends facilitating sliding of the block in opposite directions with a disabled vehicle thereon without further damage to the vehicle or support surface over which it is moved. An upper block face is configured to receive a vehicle part so pulling of the vehicle draws the block with it, sliding over a surface while bearing vehicle weight.

Abstract: An adjustable carriage assembly is provided that includes a shaft assembly, a carriage section and a vertical movement section. The carriage section has a centerline and first and second lift pad assemblies operably connected to the shaft assembly. The shaft assembly is configured to translate rotational movement to synchronous movement of the lift pad assemblies. The vertical movement section is connected to the carriage section and is configured to attach to a lift system for raising and lowering the carriage section.

Abstract: An automobile wheel-changing assistant tool, comprising a base member, a plurality of roller rails with rollers mounted thereto. The roller rails are secured to upstanding walls of the base member and have rollers mounted thereon. The rollers rotate freely about the roller rails and may slide therealong. A tunnel cutout is centrally disposed along the bottom surface of the base member such that a lever arm may be inserted under the device. Once inserted, the upper portion of the lever arm may be pushed downward to lift the device and a tire to be installed. A slider plate comprising a low-friction surface allows the assembly to slide freely when it is placed thereon, allowing easy handling of the device and associated wheel. In use, a tire is placed onto the rollers, slid into position near a vehicle wheel well, pressed forward along the rollers and rotated into position for securement.

Abstract: A device for lifting and attaching a wide-base truck tire and wheel to the frame of a road tractor. The device includes a support structure attached to the frame of the vehicle, a channel-shaped support beam attached to a frame of a tractor, a hoist comprising a lifting mechanism, and a structure for holding a wide-base truck tire in conjunction with the channel-shaped support beam.

Abstract: A pillow for towing a vehicle is provided, the pillow comprising an inflatable bladder having a top, a bottom, and sides, a valve for inflating and deflating the bladder, and the bottom of the pillow having a wheel lift conforming attachment for conforming to a wheel lift of a tow vehicle. A method of towing a vehicle comprises the steps of placing a vehicle having an undercarriage and weight on a wheel lift of a tow vehicle, inserting a resilient pillow between the wheel lift and the undercarriage of the vehicle and securing the resilient pillow to the wheel lift, transporting the vehicle to a destination, removing the resilient pillow from between the vehicle and the wheel lift once the vehicle has arrived at the destination, and removing the vehicle from the wheel lift.

Abstract: A tool for lifting truck tires from a prone position to an upright position. The tool has a frame which extends over the length of a truck tire to a leverage point at one end of the tire. The frame is attached to a plate which is adapted to slide underneath the other side of the truck tire. Two handles extend from the frame at an angle and a length to allow maximum leverage for an operator of the tool. The frame may have many shapes, but preferably is angled to exert force at a point opposite the plate.

Abstract: A motorcycle low-profile positioning creeper allows a medium to large motorcycle to be easily mounted on the positioning creeper and easily moved to any desired position on a horizontal surface such as a showroom floor or storage area. The positioning creeper comprises a low slung H-frame body and four rotatable wheels. The low slung H-frame body is a plate and comprises four corners and four protrusions. The four protrusions protrude upward and outward respectively from the corners and are separated from adjacent longitudinal protrusions a distance greater than a motorcycle tire width. The four rotatable wheels are mounted respectively under the four protrusions.

Abstract: A steering angle warning system comprising a rotation-measuring unit located on an aircraft, and an alarm unit. The rotation-measuring unit is arranged to output a first signal dependent on the steering angle between a nose landing gear of the aircraft and the longitudinal axis of the aircraft fuselage. The alarm unit is arranged to generate an alarm, in dependence on the first signal, when the steering angle is greater than a predetermined value, for example, 60 degrees. The rotation-measuring unit may also be arranged to perform a function in relation to an aircraft steering system, for example to indicate the steering angle to the pilot during ground manoeuvres.

Abstract: A motorcycle side kickstand dolly used with one or two conventional wheel dollies that allows a medium to large motorcycle to be mounted easily on the dollies and moved easily to any desired position on a horizontal surface. The motorcycle side kickstand dolly in accordance with the present invention comprises an H-frame support panel, a side kickstand brace and four wheels. The H-frame support panel comprises a low-slung panel and four protrusions. The low-slung panel has four corners. The protrusions are formed respectively on the corners and protrude up and out from the corners. The side kickstand brace is mounted on the low-slung panel between two adjacent protrusions and has an upper edge, a recess and a strengthening lip. The recess is formed downward from the upper edge. The strengthening lip is formed on and protrudes transversely from the upper edge. The wheels are mounted rotatably respectively under the protrusions.

Abstract: The invention provide a restraint in the form of an attachment for connection to a free end of an angled arm body of a self loading, style tow truck wheel lift with the attachment being positioned adjacent to a lower, outer side wall of a wheel suspected of being unstable. A damaged ball joint or axle can allow an unstable wheel to pivot outwardly at its lower side wall, and in some cases, to collapse. The wheel keeper attachment restrains the wheel from such pivoting thereby allowing a successful lifting and towing of the vehicle front end.

Abstract: A dolly is particularly adapted to lift, support and maneuver a four-wheel vehicle. The dolly comprises an adjustable, generally U-shaped frame assembly for each vehicle tire. The frame assembly has pairs of reciprocally opposed first and second frame members adapted to be positioned adjacent opposite sides of a tire and to lift the vehicle by way of the tires. A castering wheel assembly supports the vehicle on a ground surface. The frame assembly is pivotably mounted on a tractor.

Abstract: An apparatus (1) for transporting an article (2). The apparatus (1) includes a frame (3) and an article support (4) operatively coupled to the frame (3). The article support (4) is movable relative to the frame (3) such that the apparatus (1) provides a first configuration for retaining the article (2) and a second configuration for receiving or unloading the article (2). The apparatus (1) includes a plurality of wheels (9) for movement over a substrate surface, and, a stabilising means (6) to engage the substrate surface and stabilise the frame (3) when the apparatus (1) is in the extended position. In use, the apparatus (1) may be used to support a wheel, tyre or other vehicular component (2) during installation, for example, in a confined space such as a mine.

Abstract: The tire-handling device (10) is a compact, lightweight tool for carriage within a motor vehicle trunk or storage compartment to facilitate handling of a tire (T) during a tire change or similar operation. The device includes a tire support cradle (30) supported by opposed vertically adjustable handles (32). The handles (32) and cradle (30) therebetween may be adjusted to position the cradle (30) beneath a tire (T) on a raised axle during a tire change, or for aligning a fresh tire with the wheel mounting studs of the wheel hub. Two mutually opposed tire support belt rollers are disposed within the cradle (30). A tire support belt extends between the rollers, allowing a tire (T) resting thereon to be rotated for alignment with the mounting studs of the vehicle wheel hub.

Abstract: A trailer 10 includes a frame (12) having a central axis (14) spaced between rear wheels. A plurality of storage supports (20) are supported on the trailer frame, with each storage support supporting a plurality of objects thereon. A carousel assembly (24) rotates the plurality of storage supports, and may be raised and lowered. A locking mechanism (180) is provided for engaging the carousel to prevent the carousel from inadvertently moving to the lowered position. A tire support mechanism (210) includes an elongate restraint engaging an upright tire when a ratchet mechanism renders a flexible member taut.

Abstract: A tire handling apparatus comprises a structural body composed of a hydraulically actuated scissor lift assembly for adjusting the height of a tire receiving platform; a movable plank that can be stowed away when not in use but is protruding off the side of the body so that it can receive a tire removed from a vehicle. The plank slides longitudinally across the length of the receiving platform so as to be in line with an empty receiving niche. The structural body is on wheels so that the tire handling apparatus can be moved from location to location as required.

Abstract: An embodiment of an assist device for maneuvering a tire and wheel assembly is provided. The device comprises a base member, a support frame configured to support a tire and wheel assembly thereon, and a sliding mechanism disposed between the base member and support frame, wherein the sliding mechanism is configured to move the support frame sideways, forward, and backward relative to the base member.

Abstract: An aircraft tug includes a tow bar which extends from a chassis, the tow bar operable to autonomously attach with an aircraft main landing gear assembly.

Abstract: A trailer (10) or container (11) includes a frame (12) having a central axis (14) spaced between rear wheels. A plurality of storage supports (20) are supported on the trailer frame, with each storage support supporting a plurality of objects thereon. A carriage assembly (24) rotates the plurality of storage supports. A powered drive (110) rotates the carriage assembly. A powered restrictor (120) limits rotational movement of a respective carriage support during transit. Flexible members 142 and 144 interconnect the drive member and driven members each mounted with respect to a storage support. The container may be transported on a motorized vehicle. A preferred tire support mechanism is provided for use when transporting tires.

Abstract: This invention is about a system that holds spare tire in heavy and light weight vehicles, and when it is activated, detaches it from where it is fastened horizontally, and delivers it outside to the driver in vertical position in relation to the ground by using an automatic mechanism consisting of mechanical arms and joints.

Abstract: A combination apparatus for weighing an aircraft has a plurality of weight scales, each scale being adapted to be supported by a support surface in a position for receiving landing gear of an aircraft thereon. At least one riser supports at least one scale above the support surface, and the height of each riser is selected to position an aircraft on the scales in a level attitude while a weight of the aircraft is being supported by the landing gear on the scales. At least one scale may be recessed in the support surface, and the height of each riser may be adjustable.

Abstract: A small vehicle jack, having the ability to lift vehicles having a variety of wheel bases, and axle configurations. A support frame provides stability for a vertical bar, which supports a winch means. The winch means raises a lifting frame using a strap means, and the lifting frame which follows the vertical bar using an improved sleeve means, in which rollers are used on either side of the vertical bar. The jack may have adjustable and detachable wheel support means, in which the wheels of the vehicle are used as the contact points to raise the vehicle. The jack may also be used without wheel support means, but instead use hook means to attach to an axle.

Abstract: In a method and system for depalletizing tires using a robot, wherein the tires are randomly located on a carrier, the position and orientation of outer tires on the carrier are detected using a sensor, and a processor, using a signal from the sensor, determines a tire that can be gripped by a gripping tool of an industrial robot, and calculates a movement path for the gripping tool for that tire. If the calculated path is not collision-free, another tire from among the outer tires is selected, and a movement path for depalletizing that tire is determined. The procedure is repeated until a collision-free movement path for a tire from among the outer tires is established. The gripping tool is then guided according to this collision-free movement path to depalletize the tire having the collision-free path associated therewith.

Abstract: A vehicle display includes a base and a platform. A bearing between the base and the platform mounts the platform on the base for rotation about an upright axis. A rotator drive is provided for rotating the platform on the base. The apparatus also includes a base mounting column mounting the base on the ground. The column includes a lifting device for varying the height of the column between a lowered position with the platform substantially at ground level and a raised position with the platform positioned above ground level. With the column lowered, a vehicle may be driven onto the platform, tied down as necessary, lifted to the raised position and rotated for display purposes. This provides a simple drive on-drive off display that is visually very effective, easy to use and unobtrusive when not in use.

Abstract: The present invention, a tire mounting device, is a lifting and transporting device for the facilitating the removing and replacing of a tire. The tire mounting device comprises a cross assembly, handle assembly, left fork assembly, and right fork assembly. The handle assembly is perpendicularly rigidly attached to the cross assembly. The left fork assembly and right fork assembly are rigidly attached to opposing ends of cross assembly which extends horizontally. An obtuse angle is disposed in an intermediate position with each fork assembly. Tire supports the underside of each fork assembly to allow for the transporting the tire upon the tire mounting device.

Abstract: A wheel handling apparatus includes a wheel engaging arrangement for holding a wheel assembly that is to be removed from a vehicle. The wheel engaging arrangement includes a first and a second wheel support arm, each of which is curved to follow the circumference of the wheel assembly to define a cradle in which the wheel assembly can rest as it is removed from the vehicle. The wheel handling apparatus further includes a wheel pivoting arrangement whereby the wheel engaging arrangement can be moved between a first orientation and a second orientation thus causing the wheel assembly held by the wheel engaging arrangement to be moved between a first and second orientation.

Abstract: The tire-handling device (10) is a compact, lightweight tool for carriage within a motor vehicle trunk or storage compartment to facilitate handling of a tire (T) during a tire change or similar operation. The device includes a tire support cradle (30) supported by opposed vertically adjustable handles (32). The handles (32) and cradle (30) therebetween may be adjusted to position the cradle (30) beneath a tire (T) on a raised axle during a tire change, or for aligning a fresh tire with the wheel mounting studs of the wheel hub. Two mutually opposed tire support belt rollers are disposed within the cradle (30). A tire support belt extends between the rollers, allowing a tire (T) resting thereon to be rotated for alignment with the mounting studs of the vehicle wheel hub.

Abstract: A device for changing a vehicular component on a first vehicle. The device includes a frame for releasably receiving a vehicular component. The frame is configured to facilitate the frame being positioned in a component changing position with respect to the first vehicle. The device also includes a first actuator for moving the frame to a first position and a second position to thereby mount the vehicular component on the first vehicle or receive the vehicular component from the first vehicle.

Abstract: A tool for lifting truck tires from a prone position to an upright position. The tool has a frame which extends over the length of a truck tire to a leverage point at one end of the tire. The frame is attached to a plate which is adapted to slide underneath the other side of the truck tire. Two handles extend from the frame at an angle and a length to allow maximum leverage for an operator of the tool. The frame may have many shapes, but preferably is angled to exert force at a point opposite the plate.

Abstract: A trailer 10 includes a frame 12 having a central axis 14 spaced between rear wheels. A plurality of storage units 20 are supported on the trailer frame, with each storage unit supporting a plurality of objects thereon. Each storage support has a support axis 22 substantially parallel to the frame central axis. A carriage assembly 24 rotates the plurality of storage supports, and a lift mechanism 30 raises and lowers the carriage assembly.

Abstract: A wheel dolly is disclosed that is suited to serve as both an automobile jack, capable of holding large loads aloft for extended periods, relying on only mechanical systems and eliminating hydraulic systems. In a further aspect, the wheel dolly of the present invention does not include extended arms, handles, or levers for pumping or rotating the lifting mechanisms. Each lifting element terminates in only a single nut exposed to the user. Preferably, each nut of each lifting system has the same plan dimensions as the other, thus providing the advantage of allowing the user to operate the dolly with a driver and only one socket.

Abstract: A trailer 10 includes a frame 12 having a central axis 14 spaced between rear wheels. A plurality of storage units 20 are supported on the trailer frame, with each storage unit supporting a plurality of objects thereon. Each storage support has a support axis 22 substantially parallel to the frame central axis. A carriage assembly 24 rotates the plurality of storage supports, and a lift mechanism 30 raises and lowers the carriage assembly.

Abstract: An article handling apparatus for gripping and moving an article such as a large tire or other vehicular component of a mining, earthmoving or like vehicle. The article handling apparatus includes a base frame for movement of the apparatus over a substrate surface, and a handling frame for gripping the article, such as a tire. The apparatus has a pair of moveable arm members on the base frame, and a pair of moveable arm members on the handling frame. The apparatus can be compactly stored by contraction of the arms, can be manipulated through tight spaces, and is extremely stable while handling large and heavy articles.

Abstract: An automatic tire transfer apparatus using a traverser comprises: a vertical lift adapted to lift and lower a tire from a tire storage place; a tire charge section adapted to be supplied with the tire from the vertical lift and adapted to automatically push the supplied tire in the progress direction of the tire; a traverser unit disposed at an outlet of the tire charge section and adapted to automatically transfer the tire supplied from the tire charge section in the progress direction of the tire while fixedly supporting the tire; a tire loader adapted to be supplied with the tire from the traverser unit and adapted to transfer the supplied tire to a tire assembling unit; and a controller adapted to control the overall operation of the tire charge section, the traverser unit and the tire loader.

Abstract: An automobiles dolly is provided for connecting to a disabled vehicle in order to facilitate moving the vehicle. The dolly includes a base and a plurality of types of vehicle supports that are selectively attachable to the base. Each type of vehicle support is configured to attach to a disabled vehicle at a different support location, or is configured to accommodate a unique construction of a vehicle make or model. As such, a single dolly base can selectively be used with a plurality of different types of vehicle supports.

Abstract: The invention is a tow bar adapter which is attached to the existing fittings of the commonly used tow bar used to tow a vehicle behind a motor coach and selectively elevate the front end of the towed vehicle. The invention is a also a method for providing a tow bar adapter attached to the existing fittings of a standard tow bar used to tow a vehicle behind a motor coach and selectively elevate the front end of the towed vehicle.

Abstract: A non-form fitting fabric pouch for protecting flat screens from damage white moving or shipping. A method for protecting flat screens from damage white moving or shipping, comprising placing a pouch of fabric over a flat computer monitor, and alternatively additionally comprising placing the covered screens on the shelf of a cart.