Skidway Patents (Class 414/537)
  • Publication number: 20030168874
    Abstract: A cargo enclosure with removable roof panels that can be used as ramps to load and unload heavy items. Each roof panel is built such that it can support a heavy load being translated over it. The cargo shell capable of being locked with or without the roof panels installed in a variety of means known to those experienced in the art.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2002
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Inventor: Mo A. Bautista
  • Publication number: 20030170103
    Abstract: A drive over conveyor pit assembly includes a mainframe including a grain pit located between and adjacent a plurality of drive over sections. Attached to the mainframe are a plurality of entrance ramps and a pair of exit ramps. Each ramp is pivotably attached to an end of the drive over sections. The drive over conveyor pit assembly includes a drive over pit coupled to a grain conveyor in such a configuration to be transported with the main grain conveyor by a single tow vehicle. The assembly includes a drive over conveyor pit hydraulically positioned for transportation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2003
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Inventors: Steve J. Mast, Brent C. Mast
  • Publication number: 20030170102
    Abstract: A drive over conveyor pit assembly includes a mainframe including a grain pit located between and adjacent a plurality of drive over sections. Attached to the mainframe are a plurality of entrance ramps and a pair of exit ramps. Each ramp is pivotably attached to an end of the drive over sections. The drive over conveyor pit assembly includes a drive over pit coupled to a grain conveyor in such a configuration to be transported with the main grain conveyor by a single tow vehicle. The assembly includes a drive over conveyor pit hydraulically positioned for transportation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2002
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Inventors: Steve J. Mast, Brent C. Mast
  • Patent number: 6616208
    Abstract: A truck bed extension that is convertible into a pair of ramps. The truck bed extension is comprised of a left truck bed extension and a right truck bed extension, each truck bed extension comprising a back wall section, a side wall extension section and a ramp lip. The side wall extension, ramp lip and back wall section are hinged together to allow the truck bed extensions to be straightened when detached from the truck bed and used as a dual ramp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Inventor: Còrdell Eric Bauer
  • Patent number: 6612635
    Abstract: A system for storing items on a vehicle bed utilizing a platform fixed relative to the walls of the bed. The platform is spaced from the bottom of the vehicle bed to from a chamber. First and second tracks connect to the platform within the chamber. A ramp slidingly moves along the track into a first position where the ramp rests on the ground surface or into a second position where the ramp lies in the chamber. The gate connected to the ramp closes the chamber in the truck bed beneath the ramp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Inventor: Robert Scherrer
  • Patent number: 6602041
    Abstract: A wheelchair ramp assembly (20) is disclosed. The wheelchair ramp assembly includes a frame attachable to a vehicle having a floor, a platform coupled to a portion of the frame, a ramp having a weight, and a reciprocating mechanism disposed between the ramp and the platform coupled to a portion of the frame, a ramp having a weight, and a reciprocating mechanism disposed between the ramp and the platform for reciprocating the ramp between a deployed position and a stowed position in response to a force. The reciprocating mechanism counterbalancing the weight of the ramp during actuation of the ramp between the deployed and stowed positions to reduce the force required to reciprocate the ramp between the deployed and stowed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignee: Lift-U, Division of Hogan Mfg., Inc.
    Inventors: Cleatus Lewis, Alan R. Cohn, Donald Morris
  • Patent number: 6598253
    Abstract: An extendable ramp assembly includes a chassis, a first ramp slidably movable relative to the chassis and hingably connected to the chassis, and a second ramp carried by the first ramp and movable relative to the chassis and the first ramp. Separate structure is provided for extending and retracting both the first and second ramps. A first mechanism is provided for detecting whether either or both of the first and second ramps abuts an obstruction when at least one of the ramps is being extended. A second mechanism is provided for stopping the extension of at least one of the ramps or for retracting at least one of the ramps in the event of the detecting mechanism detecting the obstruction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Inventors: Robert John Allen, George David Allen
  • Publication number: 20030123967
    Abstract: An animal transporting system for efficiently loading, unloading, sorting, separating and transporting animals within an enclosed structure. The inventive device includes a frame attached to a truck, a ramp movably attached to the frame that is extendable from the frame, a plurality of holding pens within the frame defined by a plurality of partitions, and a plurality of doors pivotally attached to the partitions. Each of the doors are manipulated by an actuator such as a hydraulic cylinder. A stimulator system is positioned within each of the holding pens to humanely encourage an animal to exit the holding pen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2003
    Publication date: July 3, 2003
    Inventor: Sandie W. Bonsall
  • Publication number: 20030123966
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) is provided for elevating a watercraft out of a body of water and maintaining the watercraft at a predetermined elevation over the water or removing the watercraft therefrom for towage behind a vehicle. Apparatus (10) includes a forwardly elevated ramp (12) onto which the watercraft may propel itself. Also included is displaceable catch arms (36) which pivot between an engaged position and a released position. Each catch arm (36) is biased toward the engaged position and is constructed and arranged such that it is displaced to the released position when the watercraft is propelling itself up ramp (12). After the watercraft has passed an engagement member (44) attached at the distal end (40) of catch arm (36), catch arm (36) is urged toward the engaged position and engagement member (44) makes contact with the stem of the watercraft and prevents rearward motion thereby.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2003
    Publication date: July 3, 2003
    Inventor: Wayne Schwitters
  • Publication number: 20030099532
    Abstract: This invention is an improved vehicle body that allows development of a large storage compartment having a chassis mounted deck to assist in loading and unloading an auxiliary load to ground level in less space while maintaining proper vehicle ground clearance. The invention can have body walls in combination with a drop deck and a ceiling to define the storage compartment, at least one hatch hingedly attached to the body having means to raise, lower, and retain the drop deck in a closed position. The invention can add gas shocks on the hatch and line the storage compartment with reinforcements such as firewall rated materials. A winch device, cable and dolly can be added to assist in loading or unloading the auxiliary load. A means to prevent the vehicle from driving off when the drop deck is in a lowered position can also be included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2001
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Inventor: Timothy R. Williams
  • Patent number: 6568897
    Abstract: In a motor vehicle including a load receiving bed, a chassis .includes a generally horizontal base, from which there extends a pair of legs, and four hydraulic cylinders, associated lines, associated valves, and a flow restriction device are provided for moving the load receiving bed between a raised transport position and a lowered position against a surface upon which the vehicle is resting. A tail gate is pivotally attached to a rear portion of the load receiving bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignee: Razorback Vehicles Corporation Pty. Ltd.
    Inventor: Jeffrey Kendall
  • Publication number: 20030077155
    Abstract: A mobile passenger ramp for loading and unloading aircraft, the comprising having upper and lower frame sections connected pivotally so that the ramp can be folded for storage or movement about the tarmac and unfolded at an obtuse angle to form a wide “footprint” to provide wind or jet blast stability. An arcuate surface bridges between the ramps of the two frames when unfolded. The compact ramp remains safely clear of a “No-Go” zone while still being sufficiently long to minimize the slope of the ramp for improved ease of use by passengers, either ambulatory or in wheelchairs. A steerable wheel at one end of the ramp enables rotation of one frame about the pivoting connection for folding and unfolding the frames. Fixed wheels on the upper frame and a castored wheel positioned near the pivot point on the lower frame provide stability and easy maneuverability of the folded ramp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventor: Dave W. Smith
  • Publication number: 20030072641
    Abstract: A vehicle loading ramp (10) broadly comprises a first load-bearing platform (16), a second load-bearing platform (20) preferably substantially identical to the first platform (16), and a brace (20) that can be positioned between the platforms (16,18) in order to adjust and rigidly fix a distance between the platforms. In each of several embodiments, the brace (20) may be configured to adjust the distance between the platforms (16,18) in order to accommodate different offsets between wheels of different wheeled vehicles. The brace (20) can also fix the distance between the platforms (16,18), thereby providing rigidity and preventing the platforms (16,18) from moving with respect to one another, either laterally or longitudinally.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Gary L. Reed, Ernest Chavana
  • Patent number: 6543985
    Abstract: A snowmobile loading system for conveniently loading and unloading a snowmobile onto a trailer or pickup. The snowmobile loading system includes an elongate frame, a plurality of rollers rotatably positioned within the elongate frame traverse to a longitudinal axis of the elongate frame, a locking plate positioned within the elongate frame, a spring for applying a force upon the locking plate, and a locking pin selectively extendible within an aperture within the elongate frame for retaining the locking plate in a closed position. When an individual desires to load a snowmobile upon a bed of a trailer or vehicle, the user positions each ski with respect to a corresponding loading ramp and, then drives the snowmobile forwardly wherein the skis movably engage the rollers. When the ski engages the locking plate, the locking plate is pivoted downwardly thereby compressing the spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Inventors: Stanley A. Harstad, Konnie K. Harstad
  • Patent number: 6536064
    Abstract: A folding portable ramp is provided that includes a first platform section having a first end and a second end, and a second platform section having a first end and a second end. The first end of the second section is pivotally coupled to the second end of the first platform section, and the second section is adapted to be pivoted relative to the first section. A leg support assembly is coupled to at least one of the first and the second platform sections. The support assembly is adapted to be pivoted between a first position wherein the support assembly is oriented generally parallel to the first and the second sections and a second position wherein the support assembly extends outwardly away from the first or second section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: ROM Corporation
    Inventors: Edward A. Swink, Clayton M. Smith, Carl L. Murphy, Rick Lavelock
  • Patent number: 6537016
    Abstract: An animal transporting system for efficiently loading, unloading, sorting, separating and transporting animals within an enclosed structure. The inventive device includes a frame attached to a truck, a ramp movably attached to the frame that is extendable from the frame, a plurality of holding pens within the frame defined by a plurality of partitions, and a plurality of doors pivotally attached to the partitions. Each of the doors are manipulated by an actuator such as a hydraulic cylinder. A stimulator system is positioned within each of the holding pens to humanely encourage an animal to exit the holding pen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Inventor: Sandie W. Bonsall
  • Patent number: 6536822
    Abstract: A wheelless carrier coupled to the hitch of a vehicle for carrying loads and for expanding the cargo bed. The cargo bed expander is provided with at least one gate. When catched, the gate functions as a stop to prevent the cargo from falling out of the cargo bed. And when the gate is seated, it creates a ramp between the gate's seat and the cargo bed expander. The cargo bed expander is raised to about the level of the cargo bed by at least one lift, and is dimensioned to allow clearance of the vehicle's tailgate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: ProMax, Inc.
    Inventors: Joshua E. Vagedes, W. David Lawson
  • Publication number: 20030053900
    Abstract: A cargo carrying trailer includes a mobile body having a floor and upright wall structure mounted upon the floor such that the floor and wall structure together define at least one load compartment for hauling cargo therein. The floor has an opening extending from adjacent to a peripheral portion of the floor to an inwardly spaced location. The trailer also includes a ramp disposed in the floor opening and an arrangement for converting the ramp relative to the floor between vertically displaced raised and lowered positions to permit loading cargo over the ramp to the compartment from locations at different elevations. In the raised position the ramp extends substantially coplanar with the floor and thus at an elevated location, whereas in the lowered position the ramp has one end disposed adjacent to the floor and an opposite end disposed below the one end of the ramp and thus below the elevated location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: Richard A. Neville
  • Patent number: 6533337
    Abstract: A truck bed extender with one or more extendable ramps. The bed extender includes an extending rail having a truck end and a free end. The truck end is coupled to a trailer hitch receiver and the free end includes a bottom trailer hitch receiver. A support assembly is coupled to the extending rail receiver proximate the free end. The support assembly includes a rear T-shaped support member. The ramps are pivotally and slideably coupled to the support assembly proximate the rear T-shaped member. A locking bar is configured to secure the ramps at an angle between and including substantially horizontal and substantially vertical with respect the truck bed, and engages the support assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Inventors: Mike Harshman, Brian Harshman
  • Patent number: 6533525
    Abstract: An extendable loading floor for a motor vehicle has a supporting element which is fitted to the loading floor and can be adjusted along an associated supporting rail which extends in the pull-out direction and is connected to the vehicle. The loading floor is adjustable between a retracted position and en extended position. In order to simplify the design of a loading floor of this type, lifting apparatuses are connected to the vehicle and support the loading floor in the vicinity of the loading edge. The lifting apparatuses are designed to carry out a lift. In addition, the supporting rail rises, by a difference in level corresponding to the lift of he lifting apparatus, between a first rail section which faces away from the loading edge and in which the supporting element of the loading floor is supported in its retracted position, and a second rail section which faces the loading edge and in which the supporting element of the loading floor is supported in its extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: DaimlerChrylser AG
    Inventors: JĂĽrgen J. Haid, Horst Holzhauer
  • Publication number: 20030049112
    Abstract: A mobile ramp access system for the transport of a wheeled device over a stair barrier between upper and lower elevations comprising a mobile ramp having a base with at least one wheel and a hinged ramp plate that arctuately rotates between an upper vertical position and a lower position extending between the upper elevation and the lower elevation of the barrier when the ramp is in use. The mobile ramp is moveable to the stair barrier when needed for transit of the wheeled device over the stair barrier. The ramp is a universal design that can be carried by the wheelchair user or stowed out of the way when not needed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2001
    Publication date: March 13, 2003
    Inventor: Edwin M. Baranowski
  • Publication number: 20030049113
    Abstract: In adapting a semi-trailer for hauling ATVs, modular track segments of a predetermined length for conveniently spanning a plurality of longitudinally spaced, transversely extending E-bars that attach to the logistic posts in the side wall of the semi-trailer are arranged to provide an elevated deck structure in the trailer on which additional ATVs can be placed. In order to load both the floor level and the elevated deck level, appropriately sized and configured ramps that extend from ground level to the trailer floor, or alternatively to the elevated deck structure, permit the ATVs to be driven onto the trailer floor or its elevated deck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2001
    Publication date: March 13, 2003
    Applicant: Overbye Transport, Inc.
    Inventor: Harold L. Overbye
  • Publication number: 20030044266
    Abstract: A vehicle, such as a mini-van, is modified to include a vehicle kneel pump system and a ramp pump system. The kneel pump system lowers the rear end of the vehicle. The ramp pump system controls a rearwardly folding ramp to enable entrance and egress from the vehicle of a wheelchair bound person. A loading control system integrated into the vehicle includes a loading controller which controls the ramp pump system and the vehicle kneel pump system. In response to pushing a button of a remote controller, a powered door operating system controls the door. In response to signals received from the door operating system, the loading controller controls the kneel pump system and the ramp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Sieto Vandillen, Robert Wentworth, Todd J. Blandford
  • Patent number: 6527326
    Abstract: A tonneau cover assembly is securable to a vehicle having a cargo bed defined by a pair of opposing sidewalls extending between a fixed forward wall and a movable rear tailgate. The tonneau cover assembly includes a plurality of rigid panels. The panels are securable to the sidewalls for covering the cargo bed. An attachment bracket couples one of the panels to the tailgate to provide a loading ramp that extends between the cargo bed and ground. The tonneau cover assembly includes at least one elongated stiffener bracket that is attachable to the plurality of panels. The elongated stiffener bracket locks the panels in the ramp position during use as a loading ramp to the cargo bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Inventor: Jack V. Henderson
  • Publication number: 20030039534
    Abstract: A ramp device for loading wheeled vehicles, equipment, or articles onto a pickup truck or trailer. A ramp device, or set of ramp devices, which provides a roadway or skidway between ground level and a truck bed, and which additionally provides a solid path over the tailgate, and the gap between the tailgate and truck bed, thence into the bed. The ramp device folds to fit within a pickup truck bed for storage and transportation. The ramp device further comprises a clamping system which utilizes draw latches to clamp the ramp onto the tailgate. The clamping system is actuated by hand and is not coupled to the motion of the pivoting ramp member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2001
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Inventors: Vincent Radosevich, Joseph Gatchalian Consul
  • Patent number: 6524056
    Abstract: An apparatus for easily loading and unloading a motorcycle or similar vehicle onto and from the bed of a utility vehicle such as a pick-up truck which only requires a single operator. The apparatus comprises a guide rail subassembly secured to the bed of a utility vehicle, a main ramp subassembly detachably secured to the guide rail subassembly, a dolly subassembly which is adapted to support the motorcycle and ride on the main ramp subassembly and the guide rail subassembly, a plurality of adjustable tie down straps for detachably securing the motorcycle to the dolly subassembly, and an approach ramp subassembly which is detachably secured to the dolly subassembly. The dolly subassembly has a winch and a battery mounted thereon with the battery powering the winch which has one end of a flexible cable secured thereto and a free end of the flexible cable having a hook secured thereto which is adapted to be attached to an eye bolt secured to the guide rail subassembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Inventor: Michael Kloster
  • Patent number: 6524055
    Abstract: In adapting a semi-trailer for hauling ATVs, modular track segments of a predetermined length for conveniently spanning a plurality of longitudinally spaced, transversely extending E-bars that attach to the logistic posts in the side wall of the semi-trailer are arranged to provide an elevated deck structure in the trailer on which additional ATVs can be placed. In order to load both the floor level and the elevated deck level, appropriately sized and configured ramps that extend from ground level to the trailer floor, or alternatively to the elevated deck structure, permit the ATVs to be driven onto the trailer floor or its elevated deck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: Overbye Transport, Inc.
    Inventor: Harold L. Overbye
  • Patent number: 6514030
    Abstract: The instant invention is directed to an implement transporter having an over-the-center latching mechanism that is selectively biased between locked and unlocked positions by the mere movement of a selection arm. Before moving the empty transporter, the latching mechanism is selectively biased in the locking position so that the ramps lock in place when the operator raises them from the light side, the ground-engaging end. To lower the ramps, the latching mechanism is selectively biased to the unlocked position. The weight of the ramp keeps the latch in place until the operator raises the far end of the ramp slightly, taking the load off the latch. The latch is pulled away from the ramp by the over-the-center mechanism and the ramp can be lowered to engage the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: New Holland North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Terry A. Young, Melanie W. Harkcom
  • Patent number: 6511279
    Abstract: A transporter for use in transporting a harvesting machine having a laterally movable tongue is disclosed wherein the transporter has a jack on the forward end thereof to be deployed during the loading process for improved stability. The jack includes components that lock the jack in place when a load is applied to the jack and unlocks the jack when that load is removed, allowing it to pivot rearwardly to a transport position without manual intervention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Assignee: New Holland North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Melanie W. Harkcom, Terry A. Young
  • Patent number: 6511278
    Abstract: The instant invention is directed to method and apparatus for securing an implement to a transporter. The transporter has rigid hooks affixed thereto adjacent the platforms upon which the wheels of the implement rest during transport. The implement has horizontally protruding cross pins that rise as the header on the implement is lowered to the transport position. By directing the wheels of the implement onto the transporter, the cross pins are moved into the mouths of the hooks and then, upon lowering of the implement header, the pins are directed into the throats of the hooks, securing the implement to the transporter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Assignee: New Holland North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Melanie W. Harkcom, Terry A. Young
  • Publication number: 20030017039
    Abstract: The instant invention is directed to an implement transporter having an over-the-center latching mechanism that is selectively biased between locked and unlocked positions by the mere movement of a selection arm. Before moving the empty transporter, the latching mechanism is selectively biased in the locking position so that the ramps lock in place when the operator raises them from the light side, the ground-engaging end. To lower the ramps, the latching mechanism is selectively biased to the unlocked position. The weight of the ramp keeps the latch in place until the operator raises the far end of the ramp slightly, taking the load off the latch. The, the latch is pulled away from the ramp by the over-the-center mechanism and the ramp can be lowered to engage the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Publication date: January 23, 2003
    Inventors: Terry A. Young, Melanie W. Harkcom
  • Publication number: 20030017038
    Abstract: A transporter for use in transporting a harvesting machine having a laterally movable tongue is disclosed wherein the transporter has a jack on the forward end thereof to be deployed during the loading process for improved stability. The jack includes components that lock the jack in place when a load is applied to the jack and unlocks the jack when that load is removed, allowing it to pivot rearwardly to a transport position without manual intervention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Publication date: January 23, 2003
    Inventors: Melanie W. Harkcom, Terry A. Young
  • Publication number: 20030007854
    Abstract: An animal transporting system for easily loading, unloading, sorting, separating and transporting animals within an enclosed structure. The inventive device includes a frame attached to a truck, a ramp attached to the frame that is extendable from the frame, a pair of first doors pivotally attached to the frame adjacent the ramp, a pair of second doors pivotally attached to the first doors, a rear door, and a rear ramp structure telescoping rearwardly and downwardly for the loading of animals at ground level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2002
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Inventor: Sandie W. Bonsall
  • Publication number: 20030007853
    Abstract: A ramp assembly (20) for mounting in a low floor bus (22) or other vehicle. The ramp assembly (20) includes a rectangular enclosure (24) that fits underneath the chassis of the low floor bus (22). The ramp assembly (20) includes a reciprocating mechanism (26) for moving a ramp platform (28) between a fully deployed position and a fully stowed position. During this movement, the reciprocating mechanism (26) raises the trailing end of the ramp platform (28) in one translational movement with the extension of the ramp platform, such that the trailing end of the ramp platform, when deployed, is raised to the floor level of the low floor bus (22).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2002
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Applicant: Lift-U, Division of Hogan Mfg. Inc.
    Inventors: Alan R. Cohn, Cleatus A. Lewis, Curtis J. Simon
  • Publication number: 20020197141
    Abstract: A ramp assembly (20) having a frame attachable to a vehicle having a floor is disclosed. The ramp assembly further includes a platform coupled to a portion of the frame, a ramp having a weight, and a reciprocating mechanism disposed between the ramp and the platform coupled to a portion of the frame. The ramp assembly also includes a reciprocating mechanism disposed between the ramp and the platform for reciprocating the ramp between a deployed position and a stowed position in response to a load. The reciprocating mechanism counterbalancing the weight of the ramp during actuation of the ramp between the deployed and stowed positions to reduce the load required to reciprocate the ramp between the deployed and stowed positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2002
    Publication date: December 26, 2002
    Applicant: Lift-U, Division of Hogan Mfg., Inc.
    Inventor: Alan Cohn
  • Publication number: 20020187021
    Abstract: A hay bale pick-up device having a trailer with a deck, side wall, side bar, front wall, and tail gate; a powered track with a front end terminating in an inclined ground engaging track for transporting hay bales onto the deck; and a means for laterally moving the side bar across the track to laterally move hay bales onto the deck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2001
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventor: Duane A. Drost
  • Patent number: 6485246
    Abstract: A transporter for use in transporting a harvesting machine having a laterally movable tongue is disclosed wherein the transporter has transversely extending loading ramps pivotally connected to the main frame of the transporter to permit the harvester to be elevated from the ground onto the transporter. The force of the loading tractor, acting through the wheels of the implement, causes each ramp to move to the transport position. As the wheels of the implement reach a platform, separate from the ramp, and engage a cross bar on each ramp, they exert a generally horizontal force on the cross bar that causes the ramp to pivot upwardly to the transport position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: New Holland North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Melanie W. Harkcom, Terry A. Young
  • Publication number: 20020172584
    Abstract: A pickup truck tailgate and loading ramp is formed by a main frame dimensioned to be hingedly received by a given pickup bed. Two pairs of hingedly interconnected frames are rigidly secured to the top rail of the tailgate section and form a pair of ramp tracks when in tailgate lowered position. When not in use the track forming frames are disposed rearwardly of the closed tailgate section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2000
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Inventor: George M. Huggins
  • Publication number: 20020164239
    Abstract: A tiltable cargo box assembly for mounting on a vehicle, supporting a load, and transporting the load into and out/of the vehicle and includes a cargo box adapted for receiving the load therein. An attachment assembly is connected to a rear end of the box for pivotally mounting the box to the vehicle adjacent a rear axle thereof. A ramp assembly for carrying the load is slidably mounted to a floor of the box for reciprocating movement between extended and retracted positions relative to the floor. An actuator is mounted toward a forward end of the box intermediate the attachment assembly and a forward axle of the vehicle for being operatively connected to a power source of the vehicle and cooperates with the attachment assembly for moving the forward end between a lowered position and an elevated position wherein the floor is tilted at an angle relative to the lowered position for permitting the load to be transported into and out of the box.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2001
    Publication date: November 7, 2002
    Inventor: Gregory Robert Angermeier
  • Publication number: 20020159871
    Abstract: A drive mechanism under the floor of a minivan is coupled to the folding ramp by a rotating arm linkage, also located beneath the floor. The extension of the folding ramp is partially controlled by dynamic braking, i.e. using the electric motor as a generator and coupling the motor to an electrical load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2001
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Applicant: Vantage Mobility International, LLC;
    Inventors: Steven P. Ungetheim, William E. Gest, David H. Eaton
  • Publication number: 20020136623
    Abstract: A system is set forth for locating a handicapped individual in a vehicle compartment. In one embodiment, a seat is mounted on telescoping rails to telescope outside of the vehicle to seat the individual. The seat is thereafter pushed as guided by the rails to the stowed position inside the vehicle. In another embodiment, a ramp is provided for rolling a wheelchair-bound individual onto a turntable in the vehicle. The individual while still in the wheelchair is secured to the turntable and the turntable is fixed inside the compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2001
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventor: William Bauers
  • Patent number: 6447237
    Abstract: A pivoting bed trailer to be towed behind a motor vehicle for transporting a wheeled vehicle includes a main frame having a trailer hitch at a front end for coupling with the motor vehicle and a rearward end that engages the ground in an inclined loading condition and supported horizontally above the ground in a transporting condition. The main frame includes longitudinally extending guide rails for laterally aligning the vehicle. A pivot frame frontally and laterally bounds the main frame and the guide rails and is connected to said main frame at a transverse pivotal connection. The pivot frame includes pair of laterally spaced wheel assemblies carried by leaf spring below the pivot frame forward of the pivotal connection whereby rotation of the pivot frame about the wheels raises and lowers the transverse pivotal connection and moves the main frame between the loading condition and the transporting condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Inventor: Ralph William Haynes
  • Patent number: 6447040
    Abstract: A combination tailgate/ramp apparatus for a pickup truck for incorporating the tailgate of a pickup truck also into a ramp eliminating the need to have separate components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Inventor: Christopher W. Young, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6439825
    Abstract: An animal transporting system for easily loading, unloading, sorting, separating and transporting animals within an enclosed structure. The inventive device includes a frame attached to a truck, a ramp attached to the frame that is extendable from the frame, a pair of first doors pivotally attached to the frame adjacent the ramp, and a pair of second doors pivotally attached to the first doors. When the ramp is fully extended, the first doors and the second doors are extended from the frame along side the ramp for retaining animals being loaded and unloaded from the frame. The frame is formed for receiving one or more animals within having a plurality of partitions and inner doors. A side door and a rear door are positioned within the frame for allowing loading and unloading animals from heightened areas such as a dock or ground level with the use of a level loading attachment. A catwalk attached to the upper portion of the frame for allowing an individual to view the interior portion of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Inventor: Sandie W. Bonsall
  • Patent number: 6435588
    Abstract: A truck bed extension that is convertible into a pair of ramps. The truck bed extension is comprised of a left truck bed extension and a right truck bed extension, each truck bed extension comprising a back wall section, a side wall extension section and a ramp lip. The side wall extension, ramp lip and back wall section are hinged together to allow the truck bed extensions to be straightened when detached from the truck bed and used as a dual ramp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventor: Cordell Eric Bauer
  • Publication number: 20020110444
    Abstract: An access system for passenger boarding of a vehicle is provided. The access system includes a frame mounted to the vehicle. A transfer member is movably mounted in the frame. The transfer member is movable with respect to the frame between a stowed position and a deployed position with respect to the vehicle. A first drive assembly is positioned along a first side of the frame and a second drive assembly is positioned along a second side of the frame. A linking member extends between and connects the first drive assembly with the second drive assembly. There is further provided a control assembly that is engageable to at least one of the linking member, the first drive assembly, and the second drive assembly to allow operator selection of a manual or automatic mode for deploying and stowing the transfer member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2002
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Inventor: Sebastian Garcia Navarro
  • Patent number: 6431815
    Abstract: The present invention is a loading ramp assembly for loading objects onto a floor of a vehicle. The loading ramp assembly includes a multi-sectioned, foldable ramp capable of being stored in a compact enclosure located under the vehicle floor. The loading ramp assembly also includes a telescopic ramp supporting frame that alone slidably supports and retracts the ramp between an unfolded loading position, inclined from the rear of the vehicle floor to the ground, and a folded storage position within the compact underbody enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: Bustin Industrial Products, Inc.
    Inventors: James Zarzecki, Charles McMenamy, Richard Roberts
  • Publication number: 20020102153
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus and associated method for moving livestock from a lower level to an upper level of a storage or transport container. The apparatus preferably includes a hinge attached to the upper level and a ramp assembly connected to the hinge. As such, the ramp assembly is configured for pivotal movement about the hinge from a raised position to a lowered position in closer proximity with the lower level. Preferably, the ramp assembly includes a cleaning chute that is exposed when the ramp assembly is moved to the raised position. The present invention may also be embodied in a livestock transport that includes a loading floor and a cargo floor elevated above the loading floor. In such an embodiment, the ramp assembly is preferably connected to the cargo floor and configured for pivotal movement about a hinge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Publication date: August 1, 2002
    Inventor: Johnny R. McElroy
  • Publication number: 20020098071
    Abstract: A vehicle comprises a passenger cab and a pickup truck cargo bed that extends outward from the passenger cab. The cargo bed comprises two opposing sidewalls, a front wall and a movable rear tailgate. A ramp assembly comprises panels, hinges, retainer brackets, and stiffeners and is stored in the cargo bed. The hinges rotatably interconnect the panels to each other and a single panel to the tailgate. The stiffeners reinforce the panels when in use and are otherwise stowed in the cargo bed. The retainer bracket holds the panels against the tailgate when in the stowed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2001
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Inventor: Jack V. Henderson
  • Publication number: 20020094261
    Abstract: A motor vehicle, particularly a passenger car, includes a storage compartment, closable by at least one gate, which is delimited on its bottom by an essentially horizontal bottom plate fixed to the vehicle. At least one loading ramp is located in the storage compartment below the bottom plate which is mounted in a horizontal guide and is adjustable when the gate is open between an inserted position, in which the loading ramp is completely accommodated in the storage compartment, and an extended position, in which the loading ramp extends from the vehicle and rests on a ground on which the vehicle stands. An end section of the loading ramp facing the storage compartment is pivotable around a pivot axis which extends transverse to the lengthwise axis of the loading ramp. This pivot axis is positioned in this case so that in the extended position an end edge of the ramp facing the bottom plate sits approximately flush with an end edge of the bottom plate facing the loading ramp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventors: Ute Fischer, Mathias Lenz