Load-receiving Portion Also Shiftable Longitudinally Patents (Class 414/477)
  • Patent number: 11267309
    Abstract: A suspension system is provided comprising at least one ride height valve, when engaged, that allows an air flow to engage a hydraulic control valve such that it initiates either extension or retraction of a hydraulic piston from a cylinder. Extension or retraction of the hydraulic piston causes a booster frame to be bias downwardly or upwardly, respectively. The ride height valve is engaged when a booster axle is at a predetermined distance from the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2022
    Assignee: Brandt Industries Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond Strelic, Brett Burke, Anneke Snow
  • Patent number: 11247600
    Abstract: A vehicle carrier mountable to a vehicle frame, and a method for using same, including a tiltable subframe pivotally attached to a rear end of the vehicle frame, and a slidable bed with a transverse hinge mounted on and slidably attached to the subframe. The subframe is tiltable, enabling a rear portion of the bed to lay generally horizontally flat along the ground, and thereby provide an essentially zero-degree loading angle for a vehicle to be transported, while the front portion of the bed remains slidably attached to the inclined subframe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2022
    Assignee: Miller Industries Towing Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald B. Nespor
  • Patent number: 11034275
    Abstract: A system for a stowable vehicle ramp including a vehicle assembly, a ramp assembly and a control assembly is disclosed. The ramp assembly includes a ramp that is automatically or manually extended out, and either stowed under or inlayed in the bed of a vehicle of the vehicle assembly such as a truck or pickup truck. It is possible to retrofit the ramp onto existing vehicles such as pickups or trucks. The stowable ramp aids in providing easy loading access to the bed of the vehicle for smaller vehicles needing transportation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2021
    Inventors: Clarence Smith, Rhonda Harper-Smith
  • Patent number: 10928001
    Abstract: A positioning mechanism for lowering a suction manifold from an operational position with respect to pump fluid end to a transit and service position includes a linkage base plate configured to be fixedly coupled with a vehicle trailer, a linkage arm pivotally coupled with the linkage base plate and the suction manifold, a primary damper pivotally coupled with the linkage base plate and the linkage arm, a secondary damper pivotally coupled with the linkage base plate and the suction manifold, and a mechanical stop removably coupled with the secondary damper and configured to maintain the secondary damper at a fixed length while the mechanical stop is coupled with the secondary damper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: KCF TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: David R. Kraige, Blake T. Bonfanti
  • Patent number: 10829027
    Abstract: A vehicle carrier mountable to a vehicle frame, and a method for using same, including a tiltable subframe pivotally attached to a rear end of the vehicle frame, and a slidable bed with a transverse hinge mounted on and slidably attached to the subframe. The subframe is tiltable, enabling a rear portion of the bed to lay generally horizontally flat along the ground, and thereby provide an essentially zero-degree loading angle for a vehicle to be transported, while the front portion of the bed remains slidably attached to the inclined subframe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: Miller Industries Towing Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald B. Nespor
  • Patent number: 10159613
    Abstract: A device (1) for loading a vehicle (50) includes a platform for positioning inside the larger vehicle, a ramp having a sidewall, and a bridging member connectable between the platform and ramp, wherein the bridging member and ramp are configured to move to a deployed position in which the bridging member extends between the platform and the ramp such that the bridging member and platform are substantially coplanar, and the ramp extends at an angle from the bridging member. A mobility vehicle includes a body having a floor, wherein the floor has an upper side and a ground-facing side, at least one front wheel and a plurality of rear wheels, and a guide (53) attachable to the body and movable away from the floor to a deployed position on the ground-facing side of the floor. The mobility vehicle may ascend the ramp of the device and the guide contacts the sidewall and lifts the at least one front wheel off the floor of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Assignee: Advanced Vehicle Concepts Limited
    Inventor: Fredrick Brown
  • Patent number: 9840180
    Abstract: The present invention is a combination of tilt tray and/or dumpster assembly that is usable on a light utility vehicle. When operating as a tilt tray, the operation of loading or unloading the tray is made easier by providing a gentle slope for moving payload onto and/or off of the tray. In dumpster mode, any load may be dumped directly off the tray. When in tilt tray mode of operation, the invention uses gravity to enable the tray assembly to pivot about pivot points as the tray assembly is moved rearwardly or forwardly on the vehicle. As the centre of gravity transits one of the pivot points, the tray assembly assumes a new tilt angle, relative to the vehicle. The tray assembly can be moved rearwardly so that its rearmost end makes contact with the ground. The tray may be loaded or unloaded when the tray assembly is in any angular position when the rearmost end is in contact with the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2017
    Assignee: PIVOTTRAY PTY LTD
    Inventors: Paul Brian Alec Killgour, Barry Roy Middlebrook
  • Patent number: 9829002
    Abstract: A pump system for high pressure, high volume applications is presented. The pump system includes a turbo-shaft engine having a drive shaft and a high pressure, high RPM centrifugal pump coupled to the drive shaft. In certain embodiments the pump system further includes a second low pressure, high RPM centrifugal pump coupled to the drive shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2017
    Assignees: TUCSON EMBEDDED SYSTEMS, INC., TURBINE POWERED TECHNOLOGY
    Inventor: Elden Crom
  • Patent number: 9796318
    Abstract: A tow truck carrier with sub frame rails above the carrier chassis frame rails that also reduces platform height thereby presenting a lower center of gravity. Sub frame rails of rectangular steel tubing with the wider dimension of the tubing are used in a horizontal, low profile orientation, with the direct attachment of the lift cylinder ends to the sub frame rails or to a cross beam to lower the platform. The sub frame rails form a descending ladder frame with cross members attached via brackets so that they are lowered into the recess between the chassis side frame. A lifting bracket is welded to the underside of each sub frame rail underneath the overhang and adjacent to the chassis frame to accept the end of a lifting cylinder rod while leaving some space for sliding engagement of a platform beam which engages three edges of the sub frame rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2017
    Inventors: Pablo Nolasco, Steven Laganas
  • Patent number: 9656587
    Abstract: A device and method for moving tilt frame and transfer bed portions of a cargo transfer system are disclosed. In one embodiment, the invention may include a table and a pin secured to the transfer bed. The table may pivot on a horizontal axis allowing the transfer bed to be placed in a horizontal orientation during inclination of the tilt frame. The table may also pivot on a vertical axis so that the transfer bed may swing side-to-side, and may also pivot on a z-axis enabling the transfer bed to roll side-to-side relative to the table. An adjustable carriage with independently movable stabilizer legs may be used to level the transfer bed on uneven ground. The tilt frame may also include an extendable boom and a retractable roller system to facilitate loading and unloading of material such as flat rack platforms and pallets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2017
    Assignee: Miller Industries Towing Equipment, Inc.
    Inventors: Dean T. Mullin, John M. Cullum, David W. Bannon, Christopher L. Wilcox
  • Patent number: 9359046
    Abstract: A submersible towed body deployment and recovery device is disclosed. The device can include a support structure supportable by a surface watercraft, and configured for rotational and translational movement relative to the watercraft. Additionally, the device can include a towed body interface structure supported by the support structure and configured to interface with and support a wing and a forward end of a towed body. The support structure can be movable between a deploy/recovery position in which at least a portion of the towed body interface structure extends into water about the watercraft and a stowed position in which the towed body interface structure positions the towed body out of the water. Coordinated rotational and translational movement of the support structure can utilize buoyancy of the towed body in the water to minimize loading on the deployment and recovery device when moving between the deploy/recovery position and the stowed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventor: Gregory S. Rosche
  • Publication number: 20140334904
    Abstract: A dumping cart has a chassis, a first pair of supporting wheels located at a first end of the chassis and a second pair of supporting wheels located at a second end of the chassis. The second pair of wheels is rotational about a wheel axis. A load carrying bed is supported on the chassis and is pivotable about a dumping axis, between an intermediate dumping position and a load dumping position. A tipping member is pivotally connected with the chassis along the wheel axis and is pivotally connected with the bed along the dumping axis. The tipping member pivots about the wheel axis to move the bed between a load carrying position and the intermediate dumping position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2013
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Applicant: RANKAM (CHINA) MANUFACTURING CO. LTD
    Inventors: Larry Dean Howell, Andy Ning Fan Kam, Jian Li
  • Patent number: 8882436
    Abstract: The current invention discloses a light and easy to use support ramp assembly to be attached on a pick up truck to extend the cargo bed area. The assembly has preferably two retractable ramps, each having a horizontal ramp table/housing unit and a loading ramp. The ramp table housing unit is partially supported by cargo bed and by an open tail gate and further support is provided by a support arm and optionally by an adjustable loading support. The assembly is adjustable for any pickup truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Inventor: Matthew Kramlick
  • Publication number: 20140255136
    Abstract: An adjustable headboard for a carrier vehicle includes a hoop with a first frame member having a proximal end and a distal end, a second frame member having a proximal end and a distal end, and a connecting member extending between the distal end of the first frame member and the distal end of the second frame member. The hoop is moveable between a first position and a second position. The adjustable headboard further includes a stationary base with a first receiving channel and a second receiving channel and a retainer coupled to the hoop to secure the hoop in the first position and the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Applicant: OSHKOSH CORPORATION
    Inventors: James F. Malcolm, Sanjeev T. Kuriakose, Brandon F. Tucker
  • Publication number: 20140234060
    Abstract: A deck for a truck or trailer has a base frame and a deck frame movable relative to the base frame to either one of a tilt position or a dump position. A first pivot connection between the frames defines the pivot axis of the tilt position while a second pivot connection separate and spaced from the first pivot connection defines the pivot axis of the dump position. A common lift mechanism between the frames lifts the deck frame to either one of the tilt or dump positions depending upon the operative condition of the first and second pivot connections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2014
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Inventor: Douglas Penner
  • Publication number: 20140205405
    Abstract: A movable frame is adapted to be loaded onto and unloaded from a stationary frame mounted on a vehicle. A platform is releasably mountable onto said movable frame. The platform and movable frame may be hoisted simultaneously when being loaded and unloaded from the stationary frame. The platform includes a downwardly depending support legs which are of sufficient length to maintain the platform elevated above a first portion of the movable frame which is inserted under said platform when said movable frame is resting in a lowered position when unloaded from the stationary frame. The movable frame may be raised to engage with the underside of said platform. Interlocks cooperate between said platform and said movable frame so that the movable frame centres onto and mates with said underside of said platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Inventor: Dana William Simpson
  • Publication number: 20140205406
    Abstract: A device and method for moving tilt frame and transfer bed portions of a cargo transfer system are disclosed. In one embodiment, the invention may include a table and a pin secured to the transfer bed. The table may pivot on a horizontal axis allowing the transfer bed to be placed in a horizontal orientation during inclination of the tilt frame. The table may also pivot on a vertical axis so that the transfer bed may swing side-to-side, and may also pivot on a z-axis enabling the transfer bed to roll side-to-side relative to the table. An adjustable carriage with independently movable stabilizer legs may be used to level the transfer bed on uneven ground. The tilt frame may also include an extendable boom and a retractable roller system to facilitate loading and unloading of material such as flat rack platforms and pallets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: MILLER INDUSTRIES TOWING EQUIPMENT INC.
    Inventors: Dean T. Mullin, John M. Cullum, David W. Bannon, Christopher L. Wilcox
  • Patent number: 8777543
    Abstract: A rollback carrier includes a vehicle chassis, a truck bed assembly supported on the vehicle chassis and displaceable between a transport position and a loading position, and a front actuating arm acting between the truck bed assembly and the vehicle chassis. The front actuating arm dampens a tilt position of the truck bed relative to the vehicle chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Jerr-Dan Corporation
    Inventors: Sanjeev T. Kuriakose, Jeffrey L. Addleman
  • Patent number: 8727692
    Abstract: A movable frame is adapted to be loaded onto and unloaded from a stationary frame mounted on a vehicle. A platform is releasably mountable onto said movable frame. The platform and movable frame may be hoisted simultaneously when being loaded and unloaded from the stationary frame. The platform includes a downwardly depending support legs which are of sufficient length to maintain the platform elevated above a first portion of the movable frame which is inserted under said platform when said movable frame is resting in a lowered position when unloaded from the stationary frame. The movable frame may be raised to engage with the underside of said platform. Interlocks cooperate between said platform and said movable frame so that the movable frame centers onto and mates with said underside of said platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Inventor: Dana William Simpson
  • Publication number: 20130343846
    Abstract: A motor vehicle includes a seat arrangement, a cargo space situated behind the seat arrangement, an adjustable loading panel arranged inside the cargo space, guide rails located in the cargo space for the adjustable, laterally guided accommodation of the adjustable loading panel, and slide or roller bearings for mounting the adjustable loading panel in the guide rails. An actuating handle is mounted in the adjustable loading panel and movable through exposure to a spring action for swiveling an eccentric mounted in the adjustable loading panel out of a position that fixes the adjustable loading panel in place and into a position that releases the adjustable loading panel for adjustment purposes, and for adjusting the adjustable loading panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Ralf GAUDIG, Werner BERHARD
  • Publication number: 20130230374
    Abstract: A truck bed lift is disclosed which may be used to lift loads either into or out of the bed of a truck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2012
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Inventor: Douglas John Kerkvliet
  • Publication number: 20130149085
    Abstract: A combination cot loading and fastening system for loading and unloading an ambulance cot having a normal loading height of about 76 centimeters (about 30 inches) into an emergency rescue vehicle having a transport deck in excess of 78 centimeters (about 31 inches), the vehicle having an opening providing access to the transport deck, is disclosed. The system comprises a pair of tracks, a shuttle assembly to securely pull the ambulance cot along the pair of tracks, and a locking mechanism mounted on the shuttle assembly. The shuttle assembly is configured to position the locking mechanism a distance away from a second end of the pair of tracks and at angle below the transport deck of the emergency rescue vehicle, the angle ranging from about 10° to 25°, and the distance ranging about 22.8 centimeters (about 9 inches) to about 50 centimeters (about 20 inches).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2013
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: FERNO-WASHINGTON, INC.
    Inventor: FERNO-WASHINGTON, INC.
  • Publication number: 20130149084
    Abstract: A carrier having a platform or deck mounted on a subframe tiltable relative to the vehicle chassis. The platform is preferably slidable relative to the subframe. Sufficient clearance is provided such that the subframe is preferably located between the vehicle chassis frame and the rear wheels, and below the top of the chassis frame. The resulting carrier has a platform with a height substantially lower than that of previous carriers, providing it with a lower center of gravity, enabling a reduction in load angle, an increase in payload height, and enhanced dynamic road stability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: MILLER INDUSTRIES TOWING EQUIPMENT INC.
    Inventors: David Jaeger, Ronald B. Nespor
  • Patent number: 8376439
    Abstract: A deck assembly for use with a transporter vehicle is provided. The deck assembly includes a fastener, a first deck panel including an upper support surface, a first side wall and a second side wall, the first side wall defining at least one first opening, the second side wall defining at least one second opening and a second deck panel coupled to the first deck panel, the second deck panel including an upper support surface, a first side wall and a second side wall, the first side wall defining at least one first opening, the second side wall defining at least one second opening. The second side wall of the first deck panel is supported adjacent to the first side wall of the second deck panel such that the at least one first opening of the first deck panel is at least partially aligned with the at least one second opening of the second deck panel to define a through hole for the fastener. The fastener is received within the through hole and secures the first deck panel to the second deck panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Jerr-Dan Corporation
    Inventors: Sanjeev Kuriakose, Joseph G. Smitka
  • Patent number: 8376683
    Abstract: A carrier having a platform or deck mounted on a subframe tiltable relative to the vehicle chassis. The platform is preferably slidable relative to the subframe. Using Super Single rear wheels and an airbag suspension, for example, sufficient clearance is provided such that the subframe is preferably located between the vehicle chassis frame and the rear wheels. The resulting carrier has a platform with a height lower than that of previous carriers, providing it with a lower center of gravity, enabling a reduction in load angle and an increase in payload height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Miller Industrial Towing Equipment Inc
    Inventors: David Jaeger, Ronald B Nespor
  • Patent number: 8348586
    Abstract: A carrier having a platform or deck mounted on a subframe tiltable relative to the vehicle chassis. The platform is preferably slidable relative to the subframe. Sufficient clearance is provided such that the subframe is preferably located between the vehicle chassis frame and the rear wheels, and below the top of the chassis frame. The resulting carrier has a platform with a height substantially lower than that of previous carriers, providing it with a lower center of gravity, enabling a reduction in load angle, an increase in payload height, and enhanced dynamic road stability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Miller Industries Towing Equipment Inc
    Inventors: David Jaeger, Ronald B Nespor
  • Publication number: 20120321421
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for conveying granular and powered bulk materials is provided. The apparatus can include a trailer having a trailer bed that can tilt or rotate from a substantially horizontal position to an inclined position. The apparatus can further include a container that can be placed on the trailer bed for transport. The container can include a gate at one end to allow bulk material contained therein to exit the container when the gate is opened and the trailer bed is tilted or rotated to the inclined position. The apparatus can further include a pneumatic conveyor having a feed hopper to receive bulk material and to move the bulk material into a fluidizing chamber wherein pressurized air or gas flowing through the chamber conveys the bulk material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Inventor: CLAUDE LAVOIE
  • Patent number: 8303240
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a towing device which utilizes a towing base, wheels, and a plurality of movable tracks, a tongue hitch attachment, and a vehicle locator swivel plate. The invention can be supplied with hydraulic surge brakes or electric brakes, as well as brake and turn lights. Tie down straps are used for securing the vehicle to the dolly. The invention features an adjustable car locator swivel plate. This allows the adjustment of the weight distribution to “fine tune” the load. The tongue weight can be adjusted to comply with the RV hitch's requirements. Using the loading ramps supplied with the invention, the automobile and the golf cart can be ready for transport quickly and easily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Inventor: Robert Stidd
  • Patent number: 8297904
    Abstract: A container carrier provided with longitudinal extension and retraction capability such that loads may be shifted forward in order to achieve optimal front-to-rear weight distribution on the supporting vehicle. Two hydraulic cylinders having the same rod and bore size are provided in an over and under configuration and act in unison and enable the fork structure to tilt as well as telescopically extend and retract about a mast assembly. The upper cylinder directly controls the angle of the forks while the lower cylinder acts on a mast assembly to extend and retract. A third cylinder is provided for vertically raising and lowering the fork structure so that containers may be picked up from and/or lowered onto elevated surfaces, as well as tilted up and raised toward the truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Stellar Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew Wendell Schroeder
  • Publication number: 20120195722
    Abstract: A flatbed vehicle carrier assembly comprising a carrier body subassembly including a carrier floor supported by a carrier body slide enabling sill frame. An intermediate subframe subassembly is capable of sliding and being pivotally integrated with a slide enabling tilt and pivotal control subassembly, which is pivotally secured therebetween to a mounting platform support assembly. A pivot control device provides a means to rotate and rearwardly transfer and posture the intermediate subframe. The carrier body sill frame is slideably assembled to the intermediate subframe, being driven by a longitudinal control actuator. A ramp can be pivotally integrated into a loading end of the carrier body subassembly. The carrier and ramp floors are fabricated of a series of interlocking extrusion members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2012
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Inventor: Ronald R. Nespor
  • Patent number: 8215892
    Abstract: A method and an arrangement for moving a cargo-carrying apparatus on a vehicle from a first position to a second position. The vehicle has a longitudinal center line and includes a hook arm having a pivot end and a hook end, with the hook end coupled to the cargo carrying apparatus. The arrangement comprises a plurality of rollers mounted on one of the vehicle and the cargo-carrying apparatus. A pivot joint is positioned in the hook arm between the pivot end and the hook end. The hook end maintains engagement with the cargo-carrying apparatus on the vehicle in both the first position and the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Oshkosh Corporation
    Inventor: David S. Calliari
  • Publication number: 20120121368
    Abstract: A rollback carrier includes a vehicle chassis, a truck bed assembly supported on the vehicle chassis and displaceable between a transport position and a loading position, and a front actuating arm acting between the truck bed assembly and the vehicle chassis. The front actuating arm dampens a tilt position of the truck bed relative to the vehicle chassis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2010
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Inventors: Sanjeev T. Kuriakose, Jeffrey L. Addleman
  • Publication number: 20120051876
    Abstract: A movable frame is adapted to be loaded onto and unloaded from a stationary frame mounted on a vehicle. A platform is releasably mountable onto said movable frame. The platform and movable frame may be hoisted simultaneously when being loaded and unloaded from the stationary frame. The platform includes a downwardly depending support legs which are of sufficient length to maintain the platform elevated above a first portion of the movable frame which is inserted under said platform when said movable frame is resting in a lowered position when unloaded from the stationary frame. The movable frame may be raised to engage with the underside of said platform. Interlocks cooperate between said platform and said movable frame so that the movable frame centres onto and mates with said underside of said platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: Dana William Simpson
  • Publication number: 20120045305
    Abstract: A loading device for incorporation into a vehicle, such as an ambulance, for loading and unloading a stretcher. The loading device has a retracted configuration and an extended configuration. The loading device being predisposed to the extended configuration. The loading device may include a hoist assembly to counteract the predisposition to the extended position and move the loading device to the retracted configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2011
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Applicant: AM GENERAL LLC
    Inventors: Charles E. Nims, Arthur D. Dybowski
  • Publication number: 20120039695
    Abstract: A carrier having a platform or deck mounted on a subframe tiltable relative to the vehicle chassis. The platform is preferably slidable relative to the subframe. Using Super Single rear wheels and an airbag suspension, for example, sufficient clearance is provided such that the subframe is preferably located between the vehicle chassis frame and the rear wheels. The resulting carrier has a platform with a height lower than that of previous carriers, providing it with a lower center of gravity, enabling a reduction in load angle and an increase in payload height.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2011
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Applicant: MILLER INDUSTRIES TOWING EQUIPMENT, INC.
    Inventors: David Jaeger, Ronald B Nespor
  • Patent number: 8075239
    Abstract: A cargo handling device lifts a cargo to and from a cargo floor. A linear track mechanism is mounted on the cargo floor and has an extended position projecting through a vehicle opening. A cargo platform is mounted on the linear track mechanism so that the cargo platform moves between a horizontal stored position overlying the cargo floor and a horizontal extended position deployed through the vehicle opening. A pivot acts between the cargo platform and the linear track mechanism so that upon the cargo platform reaching the horizontal extended position the cargo platform can be pivoted between the horizontal extended position and a generally vertical position in which one end of the cargo platform is adjacent the ground so that a cargo resting on the ground can be positioned against the cargo platform. A restraint is provided for restraining the cargo on the cargo platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Andrew J. Hanzel
  • Patent number: 8070411
    Abstract: A carrier having a platform or deck mounted on a subframe tiltable relative to the vehicle chassis. The platform is preferably slidable relative to the subframe. Using Super Single rear wheels and an airbag suspension, for example, sufficient clearance is provided such that the subframe is preferably located between the vehicle chassis frame and the rear wheels. The resulting carrier has a platform with a height lower than that of previous carriers, providing it with a lower center of gravity, enabling a reduction in load angle and an increase in payload height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Miller Industries Towing Equipment Inc
    Inventors: David Jaeger, Ronald B Nespor
  • Publication number: 20110286823
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention can have one or more of the following features for a vehicle lifter: (a) a floor, (b) a frame operably coupled to the floor, the frame having a support extending from one end of the frame to an opposite end of the frame, (c) a trolley frame located between the frame and the support, (d) a support bar capable of being coupled to a vehicle, (e) a hydraulic lifter operably coupled to the support bar and the trolley frame, (f) a wheel operably coupled to the trolley frame, (g) a winch operably coupled to the trolley frame, (h) a winch line operably coupled to the winch at one end and to the frame at another end, (i) a housing coupled to the trolley frame, (j) a hydraulic motor within the housing, and (k) a hydraulics container within the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Applicant: U-Seelift, Inc.
    Inventor: Lawrence Rogge
  • Patent number: 8029228
    Abstract: A cable hoisting apparatus for loading and unloading of containers with respect to vehicles including a modular assembly allowing the apparatus to be easily attached or detached with respect to the vehicle. This modular assembly includes a subframe directly attachable detachably to the vehicle which includes a reeve cylinder and a lifting cylinder mounted therewithin. A top frame is included which is pivotally movably mounted to the subframe. The lifting cylinder powers pivotal movement of the top frame. Loading and unloading of the container is powered by the reeve cylinder. The reeve cylinder moves a shoe within a shoe track which extends or contracts a cable attached to a container which is positioned about a plurality of sheaves one of which is attached to the slideable shoe. A positively engaging locking construction is included defined between the subframe and the top frame for positively retaining the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Omaha Standard, Inc.
    Inventor: Lazar Marmur
  • Patent number: 8021096
    Abstract: A truck bed is disclosed which is movably mounted on the frame of a truck so as to be selectively movable from a transport position on the truck frame to a loading/unloading position rearwardly of the truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventor: Dan Railsback
  • Patent number: 7914082
    Abstract: An apparatus generally includes a dump frame pivotably coupled to a vehicle's chassis, and a slide frame slidably coupled to the dump frame. The apparatus further includes at least one slide frame actuator for causing sliding movement of the slide frame, and at least one dump frame actuator for causing pivotal movement of the dump frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: David G. Kraenzle
  • Publication number: 20110044790
    Abstract: A truck bed is disclosed which is movably mounted on the frame of a truck so as to be selectively movable from a transport position on the truck frame to a loading/unloading position rearwardly of the truck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2009
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Inventor: Dan Railsback
  • Publication number: 20100266376
    Abstract: A device and method for moving tilt frame and transfer bed portions of a cargo transfer system are disclosed. In one embodiment, the invention may include a table and a pin secured to the transfer bed. The table may pivot on a horizontal axis allowing the transfer bed to be placed in a horizontal orientation during inclination of the tilt frame. The table may also pivot on a vertical axis so that the transfer bed may swing side-to-side, and may also pivot on a z-axis enabling the transfer bed to roll side-to-side relative to the table. An adjustable carriage with independently movable stabilizer legs may be used to level the transfer bed on uneven ground. The tilt frame may also include an extendable boom and a retractable roller system to facilitate loading and unloading of material such as flat rack platforms and pallets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: MILLER INDUSTRIES TOWING EQUIPMENT INC.
    Inventors: David W. Bannon, Dean T. Mullin, John M. Cullum, Christopher L. Wilcox
  • Publication number: 20100215465
    Abstract: An improved vehicle carrier assembly for use with carrier vehicles to secure four wheels of a vehicle to be transported includes at least two beams, at least four wheel carriers, and a drive assembly. The two beams are comprised of a first beam and a second beam. The first beam is substantially parallel with the second beam, both the first beam and the second beam comprise an inboard side and an outboard side. The inboard side comprises an elevated shim for the purpose of enabling one wheel carrier to cross-over the other wheel carrier for the purpose of engaging all four wheels of a vehicle to be transported. The wheel carriers are in communication with the drive assembly. The drive assembly is comprised of a motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventor: Carl Lewis
  • Patent number: 7740265
    Abstract: A tractor dolly assembly is disclosed for use with a semi tractor or other vehicle to be towed in either a forward or reverse direction. The tractor dolly assembly is configured to be coupled to the rear frame of a semi tractor or other vehicle and lift the rear wheels off the ground for towing. In a forward tow direction, a conventional tow truck with a hydraulically operated boom for lifting the front of the semi tractor off the ground. In a reverse direction, virtually any truck with a pintle or other means for connection to a tow bar can be used for towing the disabled vehicle. In accordance with an important aspect of the invention, the tractor dolly assembly is provided with self steering wheels which allow the disabled vehicle to be towed in a reverse tow direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Lundin Recovery Equipment LLC
    Inventor: Richard E. Lundin
  • Publication number: 20100129185
    Abstract: A loading apparatus having a base frame mounted to a vehicle. The loading apparatus has a first frame system connected to the base frame and a second frame system having a carriage slidably connected to the first frame system and a pivot frame connected to the carriage. The loading apparatus has a cable assembly having a stationary pulley mounted to the carriage and a pulley bracket mounted to the pivot frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2009
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Inventor: Howard H. Hanson, JR.
  • Publication number: 20100086386
    Abstract: A slider assembly for loading and unloading a vehicle from a trailer includes a frame assembly movable between retracted and extended positions, a drive system including a drive motor and a linkage assembly operably coupling the drive motor with the frame assembly, wherein the drive system moves the frame assembly between the retracted and the extended positions thereof, and a wheel assembly movable between an extending position, wherein the wheel assembly extends away from the frame assembly and supports the frame above a ground surface and an angular ramp extending rearwardly of the trailer, and a retracted position, wherein the wheel assembly is retracted to a position proximate the frame assembly, and wherein the wheel assembly supports the frame assembly at a substantially constant height above a ground surface as the frame assembly is moved between the retracted and extended positions, and a controller adapted to control the drive system and move the frame assembly between the retracted and extended pos
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2009
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Inventor: Brint D. Freeman
  • Patent number: 7690879
    Abstract: The invention is a towing device which utilizes a towing base, wheels, and a plurality of movable tracks, a tongue hitch attachment, and a vehicle locator swivel plate. The invention can be supplied with hydraulic surge brakes or electric brakes as well as brake and turn lights. The invention can use tie down straps for securing the vehicle to the dolly. The invention features an adjustable car locator swivel plate which allows the adjustment of the weight distribution to fine tune the load by moving the weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Inventor: Robert Stidd
  • Publication number: 20100068020
    Abstract: A snowmobile loader having a base having generally opposed side members and at least one cross member that is disposed between the side members, the cross member including a first portion having a first surface adapted to rest on a tailgate when the tailgate is in a down position and a second surface generally opposed the first surface, the second surface having a base roller disposed thereon and a second portion depending from the first portion, such that when the cross member rests on the tailgate the second portion prevents the tailgate portion from shifting with respect to the tailgate. The snowmobile loader further includes a ramp having a track portion and a pair of ski portions on opposing sides of the track section, the ramp being selectively engageable with the base such that the ramp is slidable on the roller between a ramp position and a transport position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventor: Robert P. Asfeld
  • Publication number: 20100047046
    Abstract: A carrier having a platform or deck mounted on a subframe tiltable relative to the vehicle chassis. The platform is preferably slidable relative to the subframe. Sufficient clearance is provided such that the subframe is preferably located between the vehicle chassis frame and the rear wheels, and below the top of the chassis frame. The resulting carrier has a platform with a height substantially lower than that of previous carriers, providing it with a lower center of gravity, enabling a reduction in load angle, an increase in payload height, and enhanced dynamic road stability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2009
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Applicant: MILLER INDUSTRIES TOWING EQUIPMENT INC.
    Inventors: Ronald Nespor, David Jaeger