Having Elevating Load Body Patents (Class 414/495)
  • Patent number: 5205697
    Abstract: A self propelled steerable vehicle for transporting a wheelchair bound passenger between two separate locations, such as between a terminal and an aircraft parked on a ramp, includes a lift assembly mounted on said vehicle for movement from a lowermost position to an operator selectable upper position. The vehicle is provided with an operator's compartment containing steering, braking, motive and lift assembly controls. An internal combustion engine powers a hydraulic system for both moving the vehicle and powering the lift assembly. A passenger's compartment carried by said lift assembly is provided with a pair of ramps which are movable from a loading position to a traveling position. In the loading position, hand rails are automatically extended. Gas cylinders between the hand rails and the ramp assist the operator is raising the ramps. In the traveling position, the ramps act as gates for the passenger compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1993
    Assignee: Wollard Airport Equipment Company
    Inventors: Paul M. Getty, Peter J. Driver, Caner Unsal, William J. Wilcox, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5174711
    Abstract: A tilting and lifting apparatus for vehicle bodies for the ergonomically favorable preparation of batches of bodies in the series assembly of vehicles comprises a separate tilting device and a lifting device operable independently of the tilting device. The tilting device includes a swivelling frame which on the tilting side is swivellably guided on a pair of horizontally extending guide paths and on the lifting side on two vertically extending lifting pillars. The vehicle body is fastened rigidly on, and at a distance from, this swivelling frame, which is made as flat as possible. For the purpose of lifting this tilting device, two scissors-type lifting apparatus are disposed beneath the tilting device. The entire arrangement for the independent raising and lowering and the tilting of the body is mounted on a flat, rectangular platform on which it is possible to walk and which, in plan view, projects beyond the vehicle body to the extent of a gangway width.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1992
    Assignees: Mercedes-Benz AG, Aumund Fodererbau GmbH
    Inventors: Manfred Binder, Fritz Kubler, Dieter Herrigel, Fritz Mechthold
  • Patent number: 5173028
    Abstract: The invention relates to a semitrailer (1) comprising devices (6) for shifting a load, such as a container (9), to the support of the trailer (1) and away from the support thereof; as well as devices (3) for shifting the bogie (2) in the lengthwise direction of the trailer. According to the invention, the trailer (1) comprises devices (10; 12) for raising and lowering both the front end (1a) and rear end (1b) of the trailer. By employing the said devices, the front and rear ends of the trailer can be raised and lowered irrespective of each other in order to load and unload the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1992
    Assignee: Rautaruukki Oy
    Inventors: Jaakko Heikkinen, Markku Huttunen, Pentti Moilanen
  • Patent number: 5165838
    Abstract: A vehicle having a suspension control system that is especially applicable to an aircargo transport loader which is adapted for storage in a cargo hold of an aircraft. The suspension control system utilizes sensors to monitor the clearance between the vehicle and an underlying or overlying surface such as the ramp leading into a cargo hold or the roof of the cargo hold. The sensors relay information concerning clearance to a central control where the necessary suspension adjustments are made to allow the vehicle to avoid a clearance problem once travel is continued after stopping for the suspension adjustment. The system allows for suspension adjustments to be made either automatically or manually. The invention also includes an under deck support system which allows for limited pitch, yaw, roll and side to side adjustments to be made to the deck with respect to the underlying base frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1992
    Assignee: Teledyne Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: David K. Kallansrude, William C. Aiken, Dan P. Deitz, William D. Powelson
  • Patent number: 5154569
    Abstract: This invention relates to a lift device adapted to transfer wheelchair passengers to commuter aircraft. A base and optional four post system provide support for a vertically moveable platform. An apron, which can be used either as a ramp from lowered platform to ground or a bridge from elevated platform to aircraft is provided. The platform is preferably raised and lowered using ball or acme screw-bushing brackets. The platform can be used to load and unload passengers from rear and front door commuter aircraft, on either side of the fuselage. The lift can be incorporated into a wheeled chassis, which can be lowered into ground contact at the position of use. Optionally extendible stairs are present to allow other passengers to enter or leave the aircraft using said platform and apron.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1992
    Assignee: 2535701 Manitoba Limited
    Inventors: Douglas F. Eryou, Norman D. Eryou
  • Patent number: 5151004
    Abstract: A vehicle for conveying aircraft is disclosed which includes a carriage system capable of lifting, supporting and conveying an airplane. The system has alternately deployable primary and auxiliary sets of wheels mounted from the carriage chassis. The wheels of the auxiliary set are vertically displaceable relative to the primary set so that the carriage chassis can be alternatively supported by either. A mechanized steering system is provided for the primary set of wheels. A lifting system is provided to lift an airplane of interest between self-supported and carriage-supported dispositions, as required. An engine-driven hydraulic system is provided to operate the vehicle and power the wheel sets, lift mechanism and steering of the primary wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1992
    Assignee: Johnson Airspray, Inc.
    Inventor: Lindley C. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5145307
    Abstract: There is disclosed a cargo vehicle which includes a cargo carrying surface which is elevatable between a ground engaging or loading position and an elevated or transporting position. Also disclosed is a releasable cargo retaining mechanism for use in conjunction with the cargo carrying surface for releasably retaining the cargo on such surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1992
    Assignee: Airborne Express, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward P. Smethwick, James D. Smith, Joseph C. Martin, Thomas R. Ross
  • Patent number: 5135346
    Abstract: A maneuverable, wheeled, steerable vehicle is used for transporting helicopters of the type having landing skids. Such helicopters typically have cross bars under the body proper, with downward-curving arms to the skids. The invention includes two mutually parallel booms which extend from the vehicle body parallel and close to the ground. One of the booms is laterally movable toward and away from the other boom, which is fixed to the vehicle frame. In use, the booms are laterally spaced; the vehicle then goes forward to slide the booms under the cross bars of the helicopter body. Lift bars attached to each boom then raise the helicopter up so that the vehicle can transport it. The booms include a gang of small, hydraulically swiveled steering wheels at the ends distal the vehicle. Each lift bar swings upward on double parallel pivot arms at either end of each boom. The pivot axes are horizontal. The arms are of equal length to keep the lift bars horizontal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1992
    Inventor: William W. Roach
  • Patent number: 5129778
    Abstract: A method and assembly provide for the quick and effective one step loading and unloading of an overseas transport container, which can be accomplished by one operator and a minimum of effort. First, second, third, and fourth identical fingers each about 20' long have a plurality of air bearings associated with them, the air bearings connected up to a source of air under pressure. Inflatable load bars are provided on the tops of the fingers. At the first ends of the first and second fingers they are connected to a structural cross-member which is integral with a manifold for supplying air under pressure to the fingers for inflating the air bearings, and also mounts air-supplying structure for inflating the load bars. The third and fourth fingers are continuations of the first and second, and are utilized when loading or unloading a 40' container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1992
    Assignee: Admiralty Group Ltd.
    Inventor: James J. Harp
  • Patent number: 5123803
    Abstract: A stern drive handling device includes a wheeled lower support frame and an extensible upper support frame telescopically mounted on the lower support frame. A horizontally disposed hollow sleeve is secured to the upper end of the upper support frame and a screw jack is provided for adjusting the height of the sleeve relative to the lower support frame. A support bracket assembly is pivotally mounted in the sleeve for swinging movement about a horizontal axis and a pair of pivoted clamps adapted to engage the cavitation plates on the housing of a stern drive unit are pivotally mounted on the support bracket assembly for pivotal adjusting movement about a second horizontal axis orthogonal to the first horizontal axis. The clamps may be secured in any desired pivoted position and limit stops are provided to limit the pivoting movement of the clamps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1992
    Inventor: George F. Crabtree
  • Patent number: 5120184
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for transporting a work object including a frame adapted to be mounted on a vehicle having a supporting surface, a platform for receiving the work object in rested relation thereon disposed in overlaying relation to the supporting surface of the vehicle, an inflatable reservoir disposed between the supporting surface and the platform, and a system for selectively inflating the reservoir to move the platform and thus the work object borne thereby to a suspended position cushioned against damage during transport by the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1992
    Inventor: Daniel J. Gerawan
  • Patent number: 5118245
    Abstract: A trailer suitable for hauling farm implements along highways is expandable from a contracted, empty position to an expanded loaded position. In expanded position, the rear support wheels are outside normal highway width limits. The trailer frame has a forward section, supported at its rear with centrally located ground wheels, and a pair of rear sections each supported by an outside wheel. Each rear section has a pair of transverse telescopic beams. One set of vertical hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders lifts the forward central wheels and the rear sections off the ground. A set of transverse cylinders moves the outside wheels to expanded position. Each outer rear beam section has a loading ramp hinged thereto about a transverse axle and a wheel support hinged thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1992
    Inventor: Mark Dunkel
  • Patent number: 5118241
    Abstract: An interface for cargo loaders which is especially suited for use with aircraft cargo loaders. The interface is secured to a deck structure forming part of the cargo loader. The interface includes a primary interface member which can be extended or retracted with respect to the end of the deck. In addition to extension and retraction, the primary interface member can be angularly adjusted with respect to the end of the deck. A secondary interface member is stowed adjacent to the primary interface or nested within a recess formed in the primary interface. The secondary interface can be extended or retracted with respect to the primary interface member. The secondary interface can also be designed for angular adjustment. The primary interface also includes lateral extension members which can be varied in position to either decrease or increase the transverse length of the primary interface member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1992
    Inventors: Joseph W. Cochran, Victor H. Carder
  • Patent number: 5115522
    Abstract: A concealment trolley for the transportation of deceased persons which includes a bogie supporting an enclosure. The enclosure preferably has an overall outward appearance resembling a piece of mobile hospital equipment. In the enclosure there is a mechanism whereby a deceased person can be loaded on a litter or platform into the enclosure and fully concealed therewithin. A support mechanism is located within the enclosure and is adapted to support a litter or platform. The support mechanism is movable so as to be able to raise and lower the litter or platform relative to the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1992
    Inventor: Howard S. Wright
  • Patent number: 5105915
    Abstract: A wheelchair lift that consists of a horizontal platform mounted on a hydraulic elevator operable by the wheelchair occupant. A pivotable back panel of the platform provides a ramp for access to its top from ground level when the elevator frame is completely contracted and the platform is at its lowest position. The back ramp, together with a front gate and a system of lateral rails insures the stability and safety of the wheelchair on top of the platform, which can then be raised to the desired height by the occupant. The elevator arrangement is designed for fast response, so that the invention can be effectively used not only to move a wheelchair to a different plane for locomotion, but also for applications that require frequent adjustments to different heights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1992
    Inventor: Jerry M. Gary
  • Patent number: 5096358
    Abstract: An apparatus for rescuing an automatic guided vehicle comprises a pallet lift including a lift body, wheels for a rolling upon a supporting surface, and first and second elongate lift rails extending horizontally forward from the lift body and set apart a distance to allow the rails to embrace an automatic guided vehicle therebetween. First and second lifting tabs extend inward from each of the lift rails and include upper support surfaces for lifting the base of an automatic guided vehicle which lie beneath support surfaces of the first and second rail by a distance greater than a distance and the base of the automatic guided vehicle lies beneath a wheel of a cart being carried piggyback by the automatic guided vehicle. A method of rescuing an automatic guided vehicle and a piggyback cart from an elevator includes rolling the pallet lift onto the elevator to a position in which the automatic guided vehicle is between the lift rails and the rails are beneath the wheels of the cart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1992
    Assignee: FMC Corporation
    Inventors: William J. Plant, David W. Dagger, Thomas G. Abrams, Cynthia J. Quire
  • Patent number: 5096216
    Abstract: A transport trailer structure for carrying vehicles such as canoes and other elongate loads has spaced apart carrier frames supported on a vehicle frame carried on wheels or other surface engaging members. Vertically extending fore and aft guides extend upwardly from the vehicle frame, and slide bearings on the carrier frames are vertically slideable along the vertical guide members to permit the mobile carrier frames to move from positions of loading to positions of transport, and back again for unloading. Collapsable spacers connect the carrier frames, and a cable wind-up and control system connects to the upper carrier frame at fore and aft locations and is operable to draw the upper carrier frame vertically from a lowered position in which loading of the upper carrier frame takes place to a raised transport position in which the collapsable spacers are restored to control the height to which the upper carrier frame may be raised.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1992
    Inventor: William R. McCalla
  • Patent number: 5092721
    Abstract: A double drop trailer has a central storage or cargo section whose floor is at a lower level than the floors of the front and rear storage (cargo) sections. A first lift having upper and lower cargo platforms is located in the central cargo section, and a second lift is located in the rear section. The first lift is initially positioned so that its lower platform is level with the floor of the front section. Cargo is then moved through the rear door, through the rear section, across the lower storage platform of the first lift and placed on the floor of the front section. More cargo is then moved through the rear door and placed on the lower storage platform of the first lift. The first lift is then lowered. Additional cargo is then moved through the rear door onto the second lift and this lift is thereafter raised permitting this cargo to be placed on the upper storage platform of the lift. Finally, more cargo is moved through the rear door and loaded into the rear section of the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1992
    Assignee: Coterie, Ltd.
    Inventor: Dayton E. Prince
  • Patent number: 5087166
    Abstract: A handling vehicle is used for the interchanging or replacement of printed product reels and empty reel cores. The vehicle body has a substantially U-shaped frame in plan. On the frame is a structure (1), into which is integrated a working module (35) with a vertically adjustable manipulating device (4). This working module is movable at right angles to the vehicle body (2) and is arranged in the central area of the vehicle body. Longitudinally spaced from the working module (35) is a laterally movable gripping arm (12) fixed to the structure (1) on the vehicle body (2). The working module (35) is used for the handling and transportation of printing product reels (8) and the gripping arm (12) for handling and transporting empty reel cores (50).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1992
    Assignee: SFT AG Spontanfordertechnik
    Inventor: Werner Honegger
  • Patent number: 5076749
    Abstract: A material handling platform is pivotally attached to the front of the material transport vehicle. Actuator means raise and lower the platform. The platform is arranged to tilt relative to the vehicle about a horizontal pivot at the front of the vehicle. A turntable is mounted on the platform. The material handling platform positions roof supports in an underground mine adjacent a long wall mining machine. The roof supports are transported by the material transport vehicle carrying the material handling platform with the longest dimension of the roof support aligned with the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. After the roof support reaches the position where it is to be installed, the roof support is turned relative to the vehicle by turning the turntable of the material handling platform so that the longest dimension of the roof support is at right angles to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. The roof support is then removed from the vehicle by lowering and tilting the platform relative to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1991
    Assignee: Petitto Mine Equipment, Inc.
    Inventors: Angelo S. Petitto, Angelo A. Petitto, James L. Petitto, George W. Marshall
  • Patent number: 5074733
    Abstract: The universal bale shuttle includes a fram having at least one pair of wheels adapted to rollably carry the frame across terrain. The frame is provided with means capable of raising or lowering the frame in relation to the terrain surface. The frame also includes means for connecting a tractor whereby the frame may be steerably moved behind and to either side of a towing tractor. Pivotally attached to the frame is at least one bale engagement surface adapted to be controllably rotated between a bale disengagement position and a bale engagement position. A bale may be moved about by first steering the shuttle to either side of the tractor and then placing the bale engagement surface in a disengaged position. The shuttle may then be towed to a position where it surrounds a bale to be moved. The frame is then lowered and the bale engagement surface is then placed in an engaged position. Once the bale has been engaged it is lifted from the terrain surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1991
    Inventor: Emmett D. Hennig
  • Patent number: 5056977
    Abstract: Apparatus for lifting and positioning mobile homes has a slide movably mounted upon a track. An elevator is supported on the slide. Hydraulic cylinders are provided for independently raising and lowering opposite ends of an elevator platform and for sliding the slide and the elevator supported thereon. A utility vehicle is hitched to the slide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1987
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1991
    Assignee: Van L. Teems
    Inventor: Benjamin J. May
  • Patent number: 5056981
    Abstract: A self-propelled helicopter ground handling dolly (10) comprises a central framework on which are mounted two casters (16) and a fixed powered drive wheel (14), a single lifting arm (22) which lifts a lifting framework (22) designed to engage lifting points on the underside of a skid-equipped helicopter (114), a handle (24) offset from the longitudinal center of the dolly (10) to enable maneuvering said dolly (10) into position under the helicopter (114), and a hand held control (102) that permits the operator to control the forward and reverse motion of the dolly (10) and the lifting motion of the lifting arm (22) from a position near the end of the tailboom (118).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1991
    Inventor: John B. Knowles
  • Patent number: 5054578
    Abstract: A power-operated lift and presenting mechanism is disclosed which lifts an article stored on a platform member in a vehicle trunk to an upwardly lifted position. A start assist member is included to assist in the initial movement of the platform member from a lowered stored position to the upwardly lifted position. The platform member is forced upwardly at two locations when it initially begins to move. The motor has a short period of time to warm up before it begins lifting the platform member. The lift and presenting mechanism is incorporated into controls for vehicle, such that when a trunk opening switch within the vehicle cab is actuated, the lift and presenting mechanism is automatically actuated to drive the platform member to an upwardly lifted position. A switch is placed in an easily accessible position within the vehicle trunk and includes a kill switch to disconnect the automatic actuation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1991
    Assignee: C. M. Smillie & Company
    Inventors: Charles M. Smillie, III, Anthony J. Tomac
  • Patent number: 5044866
    Abstract: Load-lifting apparatus includes a pair of elements moveable on air bearings laterally toward and away from one another. Each element carries an inflatable bladder for lifting a load. A rack is also provided for receiving various loads, for example, automotive vehicles. The elements have cutouts at longitudinally spaced positions such that, upon disposition of the elements below the rack, the elements can be moved laterally away from one another with the cutouts registering with the wheel wells. The bladders may be inflated to lift the rack and load carried thereby for movement into a container. The process may be reversed to remove the rack and load from the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1988
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1991
    Assignee: Commodity Handling Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: James J. Harp
  • Patent number: 5035462
    Abstract: A vehicle chassis is disclosed that includes a frame, front suspension, rear suspension and vertically adjustable bed. The frame includes two mirrored image side rails connected to each other by a bumper, torque box and at least one cross member. The frame structure forms an enclosed frontal section and a U-shaped back section. The front section is adapted to receive a motor, transmission, cab, and the front suspension. A roll bar support assembly is disposed above the torque box to support the U-shaped section of the frame. The back U-shaped section is adapted to receive the adjustable bed and rear suspension. The adjustable bed maintains a constant horizontal orientation when moving from a grounded loading position to a raised transporting position. The rear suspension includes two separate independently acting assemblies with one disposed on each side of the back U-shaped section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 30, 1991
    Assignee: Hynbrood Pty. Limited
    Inventors: Robert L. G. Page, William J. Honan
  • Patent number: 5033928
    Abstract: A method and transfer vehicle for the elimination of the accumulation of positioning errors of packages in storage places in a computer controlled consecutive store, where the packages are stored consecutively on the base of the rails on which the transfer vehicle travels and where in order to move a package in the center the packages in front or behind must first be removed. The transfer vehicle includes a lifting device which lifts the package off of the base and onto the transfer vehicle for transport. Known store transfer vehicles of this type cause a detrimental accumulation of errors during the positioning of the packages. According to the invention, a package is centered in the direction of the store line relative to the transfer vehicle at least once during the time it is stored on the store line. This takes place most advantageously in connection with each lift via the lifting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1991
    Inventor: Seppo K. Suominen
  • Patent number: 5031727
    Abstract: The lift is movable from site to site, and is suitable for lifting wide vehicles, such as trucks. The lift comprises a rectangular base frame (12) to which are hinged two side wings (14). The side wings fold up for transit. Corner pillars (16) for raising the vehicle are located on the side wings. Hydraulic actuators (56) are located inside the crossbeams (20) which bridge between the corner pillars. The lift includes jacklegs (25) which are used to raise the side wings, and to jack the lift for assembling road wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1991
    Inventor: Lloyd E. Clare
  • Patent number: 5024576
    Abstract: Automatic service truck with a method for moving sheet packages comprising a base frame (22) surrounded by vertical upright struts (24-30) and housing a plurality of planes or trays (34, 36, 38) for receiving the sheet packages; the truck receives the packages, along first direction (x), moving along a second direction (y) perpendicular with respect to the first direction (x) with the help of wheels (50-54) and subsequently lifting the planes or trays (34, 36, 38) along a third direction (z) perpendicular with respect to both the first directions (x) and the second direction (y) to allow subsequent loading of sheet packages on the planes or trays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 18, 1991
    Assignee: Industria Grafica Meschi S.r.l.
    Inventor: Luciano Meschi
  • Patent number: 5023534
    Abstract: An automatic guided vehicle comprising a loading table provided with positioning motors for three directions including two on a horizontal plane and a rotational one around a vertical axis and also with optical sensors for detecting positioning marks at stop positions so that positioning of the automatic guided vehicle at a stop point thereof may be ensured in high precision, and a method for positioning the automatic guided vehicle without attendant with high precision in such manner that the optical sensors detect degrees of deviation between the guided vehicle and the positioning marks, and positioning motors are driven after computing three-directional positioning correction values based on the result of detection or reducing deviation at the loading table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1991
    Assignee: Tsubakimoto Chain Co.
    Inventors: Satoshi Ueda, Masahiro Sudare, Yasuyuki Suyama, Kazuhiko Kishimoto, Kenshi Suzuki, Shiroh Inoue, Shunji Sakura
  • Patent number: 5022810
    Abstract: A transfer device is provided for moving an object from a first location to a second location, in particular a gurney for transporting a hospital patient. The device includes a litter mechanism for carrying the object to be transported thereon and a support structure for supporting the litter mechanism and for transporting the litter mechanism between the first location and the second location. In one embodiment, the litter mechanism is pivotable with respect to the support structure to aid in transferring the object/patient thereto and therefrom. In a second embodiment, the litter mechanism is also moveable laterally and transversely with respect to the support structure. Underneath the support structure are outriggers which are extendable outwardly from the device to stabilize the device and prevent it from tipping over when the litter mechanism is extended transversely with respect to the support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1991
    Assignee: Lavelle Aircraft Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Lionel Sherrow, Harold Rosenthal, Joseph M. Spitz, Stephen W. Haines
  • Patent number: 5020961
    Abstract: The invention relates to a transfer car for heavy loads, a car which has a chassis frame (1) moving on wheels (2) and having a raisable flatbed (3) on top of it, in which an axle (4'), mounted with bearings to the chassis frame and locked to one of the two wheel pairs, is coupled by power transmission means (5") to a transfer motor (6'), for transferring the car, and which additionally has a lever mechanism (7), connected to the flatbed (3), turning on transverse axles primarily in the forward and back ends and coupled to a raising motor (6') by a power transmission (5'), for raising and lowering the flatbed (3). In prior-art transfer cars it has not been possible to exploit the car-transfer mechanism in any way in the load-raising mechanism. Thus the transfer cars for loads such as paper rolls have so far been of a complicated structure and expensive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1991
    Assignee: Insinooritoimisto Pesmel Oy
    Inventors: Jari Maki-Rahkola, Juhani Kononen, Jorma Surakka
  • Patent number: 5018931
    Abstract: Apparatus for handling transport incubators for infants and adaptable for handling any hospital patient conveyance having a wheeled base. The apparatus includes a carrier having a wheeled undercarriage, a hoistable elevator platform affixed to the undercarriage and a handle for steering and propelling the carrier. The undercarriage and the elevator platform are interconnected by a pair of cross-linked X-shaped lazy tongs that are interconnected by a cross member that is connected to the ram of a hydraulic cylinder for raising and lowering the elevator platform. The elevator platform is provided with a loading guide and locking mechanism to ensure that a patient conveyance cannot be inadvertently disembarked therefrom. A brake mechanism is also provided on the wheeled undercarriage to prevent unintentional movement thereof. The apparatus is used for moving heavy or heavily laden patient conveyances to and from ambulances of other raised surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1991
    Assignee: Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario
    Inventor: Derek Uttley
  • Patent number: 5018924
    Abstract: A farm utility wagon for carrying round or cylindrical bales with a wagon frame, wheels and axles and a superstructure, the superstructure running from the front to the rear of the wagon and centered on the center longitudinal axis of the wagon frame. The superstructure has two parallel channels running from front to rear which are formed by a center raised portion or A-frame structure and adjacent wedge shaped structures fixedly attached to the A-frame structure. The superstructure is pivotally attached to the rear of the wagon and can be raised or lowered by a hydraulic element attached to the top front of the wagon frame and the front bottom of the superstructure. When the superstructure is in a lowered position, two parallel rows of round or cylindrical bales can be loaded onto two parallel channels. When the superstructure is raised, the bales are ejected off to the rear of the wagon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1991
    Inventor: Karl Palmer
  • Patent number: 5013203
    Abstract: An electrically driven self-propelled truck having at least one electrically driven wheel guidable along a rail on a floor, an article lift table mounted on the upper side of the truck body, a work space provided around the lift table, and an adjacent truck coupling provided on all four side edge portions of the truck body. At an intersection of truck guide rails on the floor, a rail segment rotating mechanism is provided which has a rail segment for changing the course of the wheel. A truck orientation changing turntable is provided on a floor portion where the orientation of the truck is to be changed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1991
    Assignee: Nakanishi Metal Works Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takao Wakabayashi
  • Patent number: 5013204
    Abstract: Interface control for controlling the altitude of two roll planes of a deck surface relative to each other and providing cooperation with a stop that precludes the lowering of one of the roll planes when a load is in position on the deck surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1991
    Assignee: FMC Corporation
    Inventor: Michael A. Leon
  • Patent number: 5012879
    Abstract: The invention provides apparatus for precise, well controlled positioning and levelling of factory constructed buildings. The apparatus comprises units used in pairs, one near each end of a building being installed. Each unit is a four wheeled vehicle with a jack at each end. Each wheel is independently driven and the units are remotely controlled, using cables, hydraulic or pneumatic hoses or wireless apparatus. In use the units are moved under the building under their own power and adjusted and maneuvered so that the jacks can engage the longitudinal beams used in factory manufactured buildings. The jacks are then operated to raise, lower and level the building and the wheels are driven to move the position the building desired. The jacks support pivotally mounted jack plates which can remain in secure engagement with the beam while the units are maneuvered such that the building can be moved lengthwise or sidewise or turned about an axis essentially perpendicular to the terrain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1991
    Inventors: Richard J. Bienek, Henry E. Ford
  • Patent number: 5013056
    Abstract: A trailer having a tiltable main deck and a shiftable undercarriage includes an undercarriage assembly having a deck support structure mounted thereon for supporting the deck. The deck support structure includes lifting arms for lifting the elongated deck assembly relative to the undercarriage independently of the undercarriage shifting mechanism so that the deck may be lifted relative to the undercarriage without simultaneouly shifting the undercarriage along the deck. The trailer may include a hitch assembly that permits the trailer to be pivotally connected to a towing vehicle to permit the forward deck to be tilted away from the main deck to increase the angle between the main deck and the forward deck when the trailer is in the unloading position. Further, a deck angle adjustment assembly is disclosed for adjusting the relative positions of the decks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1991
    Assignee: Landoll Corporation
    Inventors: Donald R. Landoll, Kelly Williams, Ted Peck
  • Patent number: 5009563
    Abstract: A mobile vehicle is provided with a cradle that can be tilted or rotated. The cradle can also be raised and lowered. The cradle has leaves which are upwardly and outwardly sloping to handle a large cylindrical paper roll by allowing the roll to roll down and center itself in the cradle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1991
    Assignee: Haines & Emerson, Inc.
    Inventors: Marvin L. Case, Robert E. Sturm, David P. Herigstad
  • Patent number: 5006031
    Abstract: A transporting and elevating device (10,12) according to the invention for containers (20) has carrying device (122) attached to the upper part of a two-part carrying frame (30) for the container (20). The parts of the carrying frame (30) may be mutually displaced by internal hydraulic cylinders, which makes it possible for two devices (10,12) according to the invention placed along sides of a transport vehicle to reach up above a container (20) resting on the platform of the vehicle and thereafter pull its lower part upwards to the level of the platform, whereafter carrying device like chains (122) together with braces (126) and push-rods (68) makes it possible to elevate and lower the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1991
    Assignee: Danish Container Supply ApS
    Inventors: Michael Fossing, Bent T. Jensen
  • Patent number: 5000645
    Abstract: The invention concerns an apparatus (10) for handling containers, load pallets or similar load units comprising an auxiliary body (12) on which the container or similar load object can be disposed to be movable, the auxiliary body being turnable relative to a body or chassis (11). The apparatus comprises a coupler connected to the auxiliary body (12), by the aid of which coupler the container or equivalent can be moved higher on the auxiliary body and off of the auxiliary body. The coupler comprises a tilting cylinder (17) between the body or chassis (11) and the auxiliary body (12) and a lifting cylinder (16) between the body or chassis (11) and the auxiliary body (12), and an intermediate lever (13). The intermediate lever (13) is at one end with a pivot (21) turnably connected to the auxiliary body (12) and at the other end with a pivot (20) to the body (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1991
    Assignee: Orion-Yhtyma Oy Normet
    Inventor: Raimo J. Polojarvi
  • Patent number: 4998858
    Abstract: An industrial truck for picking up a laterally disposed load from the ground or from racks comprises at least one chassis beam, which extends transversely to the longitudinal direction of the track, an extending and retracting drive for laterally moving a load carrier subassembly including load carrier arms. A lifting drive is provided for vertically moving the load carrier subassembly relative to at least chassis beam. The load carrier arms of the forked load carrier or corresponding roller-carrying arms, which are transversely movable, are provided with downwardly extensible load-supporting rollers, which are adapted to support the load during a transverse movement of the load carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1991
    Assignee: Firma Jungheinrich Unternehmensverwaltung KG
    Inventor: Ernst-Peter Magens
  • Patent number: 4997335
    Abstract: A double drop trailer has a central storage or cargo section whose floor is at a lower level than the floors of the front and rear storage (cargo) sections. A first lift having upper and lower cargo platforms is located in the central cargo section, and a second lift is located in the rear section. The first lift is initially positioned so that its lower platform is level with the floor of the front section. Cargo is then moved through the rear door, through the rear section, across the lower storage platform of the first lift and placed on the floor of the front section. More cargo is then moved through the rear door and placed on the lower storage platform of the first lift. The first lift is then lowered. Additional cargo is then moved through the rear door onto the second lift and this lift is thereafter raised permitting this cargo to be placed on the upper storage platform of the lift. Finally, more cargo is moved through the rear door and loaded into the rear section of the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1991
    Inventor: Dayton E. Prince
  • Patent number: 4997195
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a pallet loader which can be used for carrying and unloading pallets on which goods are loaded. The pallet loader of the present invention includes an initial wheel-turning driving mechanism which enables a wheel disposed between both side wheels to turn; a jack plate where a control mechanism is provided to control opening and closing of a fluid passage which is provided to pass a fluid between a pump and a hydraulic jack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1991
    Inventor: Seung-Choon Lee
  • Patent number: 4995783
    Abstract: A material handling platform is pivotally attached to the front of the material transport vehicle. Actuator means raise and lower the platform. The platform is arranged to tilt relative to the vehicle about a horizontal pivot at the front of the vehicle. A turntable is mounted on the platform. The material handling platform positions roof supports in an underground mine adjacent a long wall mining machine. The roof supports are transported by the material transport vehicle carrying the material handling platform with the longest dimension of the roof support aligned with the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. After the roof support reaches the position where it is to be installed, the roof support is turned relative to the vehicle by turning the turntable of the material handling platform so that the longest dimension of the roof support is at right angles to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. The roof support is then removed from the vehicle by lowering and tilting the platform relative to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 26, 1991
    Assignee: Petitto Mine Equipment, Inc.
    Inventors: Angelo S. Petitto, Angelo A. Petitto, James L. Petitto, George W. Marshall
  • Patent number: 4995772
    Abstract: A computer automated hydraulic hauling unit for transporting precast concrete bridge segments from a casting site to an erection site. The apparatus includes a transportable chassis having computer controlled hydraulic members with means to elevate precast bridge segments from casting forms. The operator sets the lifting and transport parameters in the computer controller from the control panel for elevation and lift control. Each segment is rolled into place on a trailer bed and through automated electronic circuits the hydraulic cylinders apply force to raise the segments onto a movable and uniform beam structure. After elevation to a preselected height each segment is anchored by means of pinning vertical interlocking beams made of high strength structural steel. This computerized hydraulic beam trailer can accommodate one or two segments per load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 26, 1991
    Inventor: Richard R. Biggio
  • Patent number: 4986716
    Abstract: A refuse collection vehicle (10) supports an interchangeable refuse collection container (14), the rear wall (38) of which is pivotable between an unloading position and a closed position by means of a swivel device (41). On the chassis (12), a support plate (16) is pivotable about a horizontal transverse shaft (18) between a horizontal interchange position for the refuse collection container (14) and a vertical loading or pressing position, the pressing device (26) and the lifting and tipping device (22) being integral with the support plate (16). The support plate (16) is also provided with a locking device (114), which, dependent upon the swivelling of the pressing device (26) from its rest position into the pressing position, can be locked with two locking shafts (90, 91) on the rear wall (38) of the refuse collection container (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 22, 1991
    Assignee: Kellner AG
    Inventor: Erich Winter
  • Patent number: 4984962
    Abstract: A method for the formation of a transport unit which includes a bed assembly and a cargo thereupon comprises the following steps of placing a cargo on a first bed of a plate-like structure; positioning a second bed, which has a grid-like structure with a plurality of openings and defines a floor structure for a transport container, on top of a handling mechanism; positioning a transfer device connected with a handling mechanism above the top surface of the second bed inside the interior of the container; carrying the cargo placed on the first bed by transfer mechanisms above the second bed inside the interior of the container; and displacing the transfer device relative to the second bed below its top surface, whereby the first bed along with its cargo is set upon the second bed to be supported and the container is provided with a unitary bottom defined by the first and second beds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 15, 1991
    Assignee: Onninen Oy
    Inventor: Pekka Jarvinen
  • Patent number: 4978272
    Abstract: The present invention has to do with aircraft cargo handling and loading equipment and specifically with a type of roller deck surface employed thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 18, 1990
    Assignee: FMC Corporation
    Inventor: Michael A. Leon
  • Patent number: 4969794
    Abstract: A knock-down pallet truck utilizes a tubular construction as its fork assembly (43) such that each fork is separately removable from the carriage. Each light-weight fork (43) includes a pair of spaced apart tubular members (39) joined at a tip (41) and affixed to a pair of rigid connection splines (36) which are detachably affixed to a receptacle unit (18, 19) on the body (14) of the pallet truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 13, 1990
    Inventor: Kurt K. Larsen