With Haulage Means (e.g., Cable, Etc.) Patents (Class 414/538)
  • Patent number: 12134340
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to a motor vehicle including a load-assist roller. In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a motor vehicle, including a panel and a roller moveable between a stowed position and a deployed position. When the roller is in the deployed position, the roller projects rearward of a rear edge of the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2022
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2024
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Daveanand Singh, Ryan Mathew Sandor, Michael John Harmon, Hussain Tajmahal, Scott C. Anderson
  • Patent number: 12024082
    Abstract: A truck mountable kayak loader and carrier including a support frame having a front frame, a back frame, and a pair of side rails. Rotatably affixed to the back frame is a kayak support structure having a pair of telescoping rails, with a winch support structure secured at and between one of the ends of the telescoping rails and a pull bar secured at and between the other ends of the telescoping rails. A telescoping cylinder is provided to raise and lower the front end of the kayak support structure relative to the support frame, and a winch system is provided to pull the kayak onto the kayak support system. Also provide is a kayak support structure for mounting on a carrier or storage structure. Further, methods of loading a kayak onto a truck or kayak support structure are provided, using the disclosed technology.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2022
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2024
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. Wilson
  • Patent number: 11179282
    Abstract: An auxiliary loading device of a stretcher including a winch having a support frame rotatably supporting a spool, a tow strap wound on the spool and having a tow hook attachable to the stretcher, and a motor connected and configured to rotate the spool in a first direction for winding the tow strap on the spool and in a second direction for unwinding the tow strap from the spool. A sensor is connected to the winch to detect a value of a parameter indicative of a tension of a unwound section of the tow strap including the tow hook, and an electronic control unit operatively connected to the sensor unit and the motor of the winch to stop rotation of the spool when operated to rotate in the second direction if the value of the parameter indicative of the tension is less than or equal to a reference value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2021
    Assignee: STEM S.R.L.
    Inventors: Ezio Menna, Michele Corradi
  • Patent number: 11142266
    Abstract: A tracked vehicle, such as tracked carrier to carry and enable use of work equipment on various terrains, is provided. The tracked vehicle may comprise a frame comprising an equipment mounting area for mounting work equipment above the frame. The frame may comprise a pair of side rails that have a spacing in a widthwise direction of the tracked vehicle which corresponds to a standard truck frame side rail spacing. An operator cabin comprises a seating area which may comprise a single seat for an operator or a first seat for the operator and a second seat for a second person next to the operator. At least part of a power plant of the tracked vehicle may be mounted above the frame and behind the operator cabin. The tracked vehicle comprises a plurality of track assemblies for traction of the tracked vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2021
    Assignee: Prinoth Ltd.
    Inventors: Eric Steben, Benoit Marleau
  • Patent number: 11124358
    Abstract: A roller platform apparatus includes a rigid plate, a set of bearings mounted on the rigid plate, and a set of one or more bars attached to the rigid plate. The set of bars is configured to restrict movement of a load into a space between the set of bearings and lower than the height of the one of more bars, and the height of the one or more bars is lower than the height of the first set of bearings and higher than the rigid plate. At least one advantage in this approach is that an equipment rack can be transported without the use of casters that are permanently attached to the equipment rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2021
    Assignee: SUPER MICRO COMPUTER, INC.
    Inventors: Chinghorng (Charlie) Wu, Peter Wang
  • Patent number: 10780815
    Abstract: A pickup truck loading device. The pickup truck loading device includes an elongated rod having a first end, a second end, and a central portion. A winch mount is disposed at the central portion of the elongated rod. A first end bracket and a second end bracket each include a channel and are each configured to mount to an upper rim of opposing sides of a truck bed. The first end of the elongated rod is slidably engaged within the channel of the first end bracket and the second end of the elongated rod is slidably engaged within the channel of the second end bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Inventor: Laurance Henry Delaurier
  • Patent number: 9469232
    Abstract: An attachment bracket for use with heavy machinery and adapted to releasably attach to a double wheeled bin. The attachment bracket has a plurality of spaced parallel elongated bracket frame members, an elongated wide plate member connected to each the bracket frame member forming a rigid connection therebetween, a pair of spaced main hook members removably and adjustably connected to the wide plate member in between the bracket frame members, and a pair of secondary hook members, each rotationally connected to a respective the main hook member and biased such that they will return to an initial position when not being forced to rotate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2016
    Inventor: Alain Cloutier
  • Patent number: 8961097
    Abstract: A system for transporting containers includes a trailer frame with independent hoist systems for loading and unloading multiple containers. The trailer frame supports the containers during transport, inclines to load/unload the containers, and supports a tilting sub-frame that loads/unloads a container. Thus, the system is chassis-less.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Inventors: Daniel A. Doron, Leo S. Doron
  • Patent number: 8807906
    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: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Inventor: Ronald R. Nespor
  • Publication number: 20140227070
    Abstract: A cargo truck ramp load assist system comprises a hand truck engagement device disposed in a longitudinal slot in a cargo truck ramp, a first actuator coupled to the hook operable to effect displacement of the hand truck engagement device along the longitudinal slot in the ramp, a remote controller coupled to a hand truck and equipped with a first radio transceiver, a second radio transceiver coupled to the first actuator operable to receive directional/speed control signals from the remote controller, and the hand truck engagement device operable to engage the hand truck and the first actuator effecting displacement of the hand truck engagement device up and down the ramp in response to the directional/speed control signals to facilitate the hand truck going up and down the ramp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2013
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicant: ROM ACQUISITION CORPORATION
    Inventor: John E. McLoughlin
  • Publication number: 20140119864
    Abstract: A vehicle lift and repair system includes a flatbed trailer provided with a wood-like or separate metallic surface upon a base of the trailer, the surface having recesses, and weight bearing axles beneath in a region of the recesses. Included is a hydraulic lift having a base support positioned within the recesses in the surface of the trailer, the recesses having a depth sufficient to include all components of the lift, including a top thereof substantially flush with the surface when the lift is retracted. The lift is preferably positioned in relation to a transverse mid-line between the weight-bearing axles. Ramps facilitate positioning on the lift of an auto-to-be-repaired. A generator, compressor and hydraulic fluid reservoir for the hydraulic vehicle lift are situated toward a front of the trailer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Inventor: Jacob E. Kiragu
  • Publication number: 20140093343
    Abstract: A vehicle loading apparatus with stanchions mounted on the first forward corners of a truck bed by means of saddles straddling the front rail of the truck bed and force stops in the forward stake wells of the truck bed. The (adjustably positioned) force stops are each mounted on a respective torque arm which is attached to a respective saddle. Resilient padding protects painted truck bed surfaces in contact with the stanchions as well as reduces noise and vibration. The vehicle loading apparatus can be installed as is needed, and removed as desired, simply, without tools, and without alterations to most common pickup truck beds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Inventor: James P. Donohue
  • Patent number: 8534978
    Abstract: A simplified apparatus is provided to exploit certain unique characteristics of DC winches, whereby two winches may be cooperatively joined to load and unload a light-duty truck. Since the speed and torque are linearly related in a DC motor, it possible to manipulate certain parameters, such as the resistance of the armature and the mechanical leverage applied to the load, to result in a stable dynamic between two oppositely-directed DC-motor winches. The novel concept avoids the need for controls to coordinate the winches, and no installation is required that would otherwise limit the use of the truck for other purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Inventor: David Douglas Dieziger
  • Patent number: 8500383
    Abstract: In one embodiment of a trailer and/or unloading device, a front and rear roller assembly and chock may be moved along the length of the trailer. The front and rear roller assemblies may each include two rollers that may be actuated between a first and second position. The chock may include a stop that may be actuated between a first and second position. The arrangement of front and rear rollers and chock allows the operator to unload a plurality of objects placed on the trailer deck, one object at a time, while remaining in the cab of a prime mover. The moving components of the trailer and/or unloading device may be powered hydraulically. The trailer and/or unloading device may include strategically placed cameras and a control panel for operating the various elements of the trailer and unloading device placed in the cab of the prime mover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Inventor: Hartzell H. Schmidgall
  • Patent number: 8465246
    Abstract: A container handling system and method for a wheeled transport vehicle is disclosed that is capable of loading and unloading containers, particularly in locations where the overhead height is limited. A hinged tail member at the rear end of the elongated body (a/k/a tilt frame member) is rotated to the ground allowing the containers to be loaded and unloaded without rotating the tilt frame to its maximum height. A cable reeving arrangement, such as a dual reeving arrangement, can be utilized to load and unload the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: The Heil Co.
    Inventors: Charles A. Duell, Richard T. Williams
  • Patent number: 8444365
    Abstract: A container handling system and method for a wheeled transport vehicle is disclosed that is capable of loading and unloading containers, particularly in locations where the overhead height is limited. A hinged tail member at the rear end of the elongated body (a/k/a tilt frame member) is rotated adjacent the ground allowing the containers to be loaded and unloaded without rotating the tilt frame to its maximum height. A cable reeving arrangement, such as a dual reeving arrangement, can be utilized to load and unload the containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: The Heil Co.
    Inventors: Charles A. Duell, Richard T. Williams
  • Patent number: 8444361
    Abstract: A portable log skidder designed for towing with various vehicles comprising a self-contained battery-operated winch is herein disclosed. The skidder comprises a steel frame providing an ā€œLā€-shaped configuration. An inverted ā€œUā€-shaped structure at a rear location provides an opening and an upper pulley over the open frame. To utilize the log skidder, it is positioned in proximity to a large log. A steel cable is extended from the winch and strapped around one end of the log. Next, the winch is used to raise one (1) end of the log slightly off the ground. The log skidder, along with the log, is then pulled using a vehicle thereto a location where the log can be harvested for firewood, lumber, or other purposes. The log is centered over two (2) pneumatic rubber tires on the frame which carry the weight of the log skidder and the log. The winch is controlled by a tethered remote control unit at a safe distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Inventor: Weldon Hershey
  • Patent number: 8371798
    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 12, 2013
    Assignee: Miller Industries Towing Equipment Inc
    Inventors: David Jaeger, Ronald B Nespor
  • Patent number: 8366373
    Abstract: A fully collapsible lightweight mount to support a cargo loading apparatus. The mount has releasably attached horizontal and vertical arms, with a bracket to adjustably attach a cargo loading device on the vertical arm. In one embodiment, the horizontal arms have brackets configured to attach to ā€œstake holesā€ in the standard side walls of a pickup truck cargo bed. The vertical arm of the device may be further supported against for example, a cargo bed forward wall or floor by a floor brace. Alternatively horizontal arm may attach to a pickup truck trailer hitch by additional mounts and connecting arm components suitable for attachment to a class 3 trailer hitch. The component parts can be readily assembled and disassembled, are lightweight, and occupy little space. The disassembled device can be stored in a carrying bag in the cab or other compartment of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Inventor: Steven Wood
  • Patent number: 8215893
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a motorized device that can be operated by one person to load and unload a motorcycle onto and off of a truck bed or similar cargo area of a motor vehicle or trailer. The device taught herein may be employed to lift a motorcycle to the level of the truck bed then moved within the bed for transport and storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: George T Simpson
  • Patent number: 8166593
    Abstract: The stabilizing system has a ramp having a first end mounted within a vehicle and a second end positioned on a base surface external to the vehicle. The stabilizing system further includes a tension mechanism having a first end section, a second end section, and a tension member positioned therebetween. The first end section of the tension mechanism is releasably coupled to the vehicle and the second end section of the tension mechanism is releasably coupled to the first end of said ramp. The ramp is maintained in fixed location with respect to said vehicle and said base surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Inventors: Catharine W. Trauernicht, Mark T. MacLean-Blevins
  • Patent number: 8152435
    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: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Inventor: Ronald R. Nespor
  • Patent number: 8133000
    Abstract: A system for loading, unloading and carrying a boat, upright with motor, on a vehicle includes a raised carrying rack positioned at an incline above the vehicle and a loading arm extending rearwardly from the back of the vehicle and supported in cantilever fashion by cables. A winch, cable and pulley system pulls the boat out of the water, onto the loading arm, up onto rollers at the rear of the carrying rack, and to the forward end of the carrying rack where it is secured. The loading arm may be folded upright after the boat is loaded on the carrying rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: Rogue Otter System, LLC
    Inventors: Wayne L. Olson, Kenneth Raymond Monroe, Charles M. McNair
  • Patent number: 8092142
    Abstract: Improvements in a vertical recreational vehicle ramp and lift that allows a recreational vehicle to be stored and transported in a vertical orientation. A cable from the lift mechanism connects to a recreational vehicle. The cable in then retracted to lift the recreational vehicle into a vertical orientation. This method of storage reduces the amount of space that is required to store a recreational vehicle. The storage method can be used in a garage, on the back or within a mobile transportation vehicle. The lifting device can be a powered or manual crank device that lifts the recreational vehicle. The ramp can be used to transport other vehicles into the truck and also provides protection of the wheels of the recreational vehicle against here the vehicle is stored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Inventor: Richard D Collins, Jr.
  • 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: 7997850
    Abstract: A small vehicle loading and transport deck for pickup trucks which includes a box-like frame which is positioned within the bed of the truck and which has a deck movably mounted thereon which is movable from an inclined and rearwardly extending loading/unloading position to a transport position wherein the deck is positioned on the top of the frame. The box-like frame provides a storage area beneath the deck so that articles or objects may be stored therein. A winch is provided for moving the deck between its loading/unloading position and its transport position and vice versa. The winch may also be used to load a disabled vehicle onto the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Inventor: Ronald G. Hutchison
  • Publication number: 20110188980
    Abstract: A luggage loading system for use with land vehicles comprising: a pulley assembly; a hinged ramp inclinable onto a back of a vehicle; and a cable assembly. The pulley assembly comprises an axle providing a rotator for at least one wheel, the wheel is used for translational rotation whereby a mechanical advantage may be applied to the luggage (or other liftable item) via a user manipulating the cable assembly. The mechanical advantage is used to load and/or unload luggage. The pulley assembly comprises a fixed class one pulley; wherein the pulley is used to change direction of an applied force permitting a user to pull-load the luggage up the slope of the hinged ramp using the mechanical advantage as opposed to lifting the luggage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2011
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Inventor: JoAnn Pumroy
  • Publication number: 20110123304
    Abstract: A laterally adjustable winch assembly for loading and unloading an associated vehicle onto or from a raised deck of an associated carrier is disclosed. The laterally adjustable winch assembly includes a first support member and a second support member slideably engaged with the first support member. The second support member includes a first attachment end and a second attachment end. The first and second attachment ends are configured to be detachably secured to a portion of the associated carrier. A retaining member is disposed between the first and second support members for selectively retaining the first support member in fixed relationship with the second support member. A winch is secured to the first support member. The winch includes a retractable winch line capable of being secured to the associated vehicle for winching the associated vehicle from a first level to a second raised level of the deck of the associated carrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2009
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Inventors: Donald Dale Thomas, Tori Katherine Thomas
  • Publication number: 20110110753
    Abstract: A simplified apparatus is provided to exploit certain unique characteristics of DC winches, whereby two winches may be cooperatively joined to load and unload a light-duty truck. Since the speed and torque are linearly related in a DC motor, it possible to manipulate certain parameters, such as the resistance of the armature and the mechanical leverage applied to the load, to result in a stable dynamic between two oppositely-directed DC-motor winches. The novel concept avoids the need for controls to coordinate the winches, and no installation is required that would otherwise limit the use of the truck for other purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Inventor: David Douglas Dieziger
  • Patent number: 7909560
    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: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Inventor: Ronald R. Nespor
  • Patent number: 7896604
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for loading articles, such as wild game or the like, into an all terrain vehicle (ATV). The device provides a tripod-type support on the front upper part of the ATV having a pulley at its apex whereby the cable from a winch on the front of the ATV is passed over the pulley and then extends over the ATV to the rear of the ATV where a sled is placed on the rear of the ATV so that an article placed at the base of the sled can be pulled up the sled and loaded into the ATV.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Inventors: Bernard F. Donlin, Travis Leon Hanson
  • Publication number: 20100247279
    Abstract: The device includes a chassis (1) with an engine (2) associated with two side transport caterpillar tracks (3), with a vessel-housing cradle (4) in the upper part of the chassis (1), with this cradle (4) presenting a pulley (61) at its front end, on which a traction cable (62) is guided that is associated with a winch (6) and, at its rear end there is at least one telescopic element (41), defined by two longitudinal parallel rear extension stringers. The engine (2) is associated with one end of a vertical shaft (22) by a belt (21), while the other end is associated with two belts (23, 24) that provide power to the winch (6) and to a mechanical reducer (5) associated with the caterpillar track drive crown.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2008
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Inventor: Otger Robert I Boluda
  • Patent number: 7771154
    Abstract: A vehicle payload conveyance system located inside the hollow of a vehicle gate which provides ramps which deploy from the hollow by rotation about the axis of a ball slidly engaged in a track to allow the ramps to be positioned for the loading and unloading of a payload into or out of the vehicle, and further provides a line deployed from the hollow of the vehicle gate which can be attached to the payload and adjustably tensioned to facilitate transfer of a payload into or out of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Inventor: Bradley Dean Ehler
  • Patent number: 7568876
    Abstract: A portable log skidder is disclosed, having a base frame with an axle and a pair of wheels at the rear end and a trailer coupler at its front end. A winch with a motive or power source and a cable-winding drum is mounted on the base frame near its front end. A fixed pulley is mounted on the base frame near its rear end. Three support columns for a tripod-like support frame are provided above the base frame. A plurality of accessory attachment fittings are disposed around the support columns. A movable pulley is connected to one of the accessory attachment points. A log bunk is located at the rear of the base frame, to which a log chute is attached. A stabilizer is provided that articulates with the log chute. A cable wound on the drum of the winch has a free end engaging the fixed pulley, the moveable pulley and, finally, a log to be hauled aboard the portable log skidder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Inventor: Franklin R Tenney
  • Patent number: 7407149
    Abstract: A unit that includes a winch, a standard for the winch, a platform and a ramp and which can be disassembled for storage and easily and quickly set up to move a device, such as a scooter or a wheelchair or the like, onto another vehicle, such as a van or a car or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Inventor: Jan E. Zindell
  • Patent number: 7354236
    Abstract: This motorcycle loading and unloading apparatus employs a carriage to which a motorcycle can be attached and a slide body which facilitates the movement of the carriage and attached motorcycle from the ground and into the back of an open pickup truck. The carriage has an attached loading system that aids in unloading the carriage by biasing the carriage towards an unloaded position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: Springer Family Patents Limited Partnership
    Inventor: William O. Springer
  • Publication number: 20070292251
    Abstract: A dock trailer for animal dog jumping and associated method, including one or more of the following: placing a pool on a pallet; securing the pool to the pallet; aligning the pallet with the trailer; extending a boom from the trailer; extending a tether from the trailer or the boom; attaching the tether to the pallet; starting to pull the tether towards the trailer; pulling the pallet up a ramp of the trailer; raising the pallet to a level wherein a bottom surface of the pallet is above a top surface of the trailer; retracting the boom into the trailer; aligning the pallet with a receptacle in the trailer; lowering the pallet into the receptacle of the trailer; receiving the pallet in the receptacle of the trailer; stopping to pull the tether towards the trailer; securing the pallet in the trailer receptacle; and securing the pallet to the trailer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2007
    Publication date: December 20, 2007
    Inventor: Tony Reed
  • Publication number: 20070177964
    Abstract: A loader is releasably mounted to an associated vehicle rack. The loader has a first generally horizontal position for transporting an associated boat and a second position inclined downwardly at an angle of inclination to the generally horizontal first position for launching and loading the associated boat in a predominately upright position. The loader comprises an outer frame assembly and an inner frame assembly. The outer frame assembly is configured for pivotal engagement with the associated vehicle rack. The inner frame assembly is at least partially telescopically received in the outer frame assembly. In the first position, the inner frame assembly is releasably secured within the outer frame assembly. In the second position, the outer frame assembly is at least partially rotated about a horizontal transverse axis defined by the associated vehicle rack and the inner frame assembly at least partially extends telescopically outwardly from the outer frame assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2007
    Publication date: August 2, 2007
    Inventor: Paul A. Bosela
  • Patent number: 7186069
    Abstract: A vehicle payload conveyance system located inside the hollow of a vehicle gate which provides ramps which deploy from the hollow by rotation about the axis of a ball slidly engaged in a track to allow the ramps to be positioned for the loading and unloading of a payload into or out of the vehicle, and further provides a line deployed from the hollow of the vehicle gate which can be attached to the payload and adjustably tensioned to facilitate transfer of a payload into or out of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Inventor: Bradley Dean Ehler
  • Patent number: 6916056
    Abstract: Bariatric gurney and process including a winch mounted in an ambulance for pulling the gurney up removable rails. The gurney includes extenders for increasing the patient support surface of the gurney and may include a removable patient safety bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Assignee: Godby Enterprises, LLC
    Inventors: Donald E. Mitchell, Thomas Godby, Steve Nelson
  • Patent number: 6869094
    Abstract: A personal watercraft stand and tote device comprising a frame member, a control assembly associated with the frame member, a powertrain assembly associated with the frame member and the control assembly, a handle assembly associated with the frame member, and, a loading assembly associated with the frame member. The control assembly includes a motor and an control unit positioned within a housing. The device is capable of powered operation in a fully submerged condition, such as, for example five feet below the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Inventor: Michael T. Fogg
  • Publication number: 20040202533
    Abstract: There is provided a bed containment system disposed in a vehicle for convenient loading, securing, and unloading of a bed such as those used in the hospital or nursing home industries. A winch with a cable is provided to attach to the bed and to pull the bed up a loading ramp and onto a support surface. The bed is positioned on the support surface while the bed is within the vehicle. The cable remains attached to the bed while the bed is within the vehicle to secure against longitudinal movement of the bed during transport. The support surface inclines downward from a forward edge to an aft edge. A securing member within the vehicle includes at least one arm that is laterally moveable against a side of the bed to secure the bed against lateral movement. The bed is removed by disengaging the arm and reversing the winch such that the bed rolls rearward down the inclined support surface and down the loading ramp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2003
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Inventor: A. Ralph Haire
  • Patent number: 6698996
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a specialized truck bed wherein the bed is divided into two areas or deck sections connected by a transverse hinge. The invention is also directed to a winch system for use on a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Up-N-Atom, Inc.
    Inventor: Raymond E. Smith, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6698994
    Abstract: An apparatus for loading and unloading objects, particularly motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and the like, on a carrying vehicle. The apparatus typically includes at least one vehicle attachment mount arm for engaging the carrying vehicle. A slide bracket is pivotally carried by the vehicle attachment mount arm, and a support having front and rear ends is slidably carried by the slide bracket. A first winch engages the support for selectively sliding the support forwardly or rearwardly on the slide bracket. A carriage is slidably carried by the support for receiving the object. A second winch operably engages the carriage such that the carriage slidably traverses the support toward the front end of the support responsive to a forward operation of the second winch, and the carriage slidably traverses the support toward the rear end of the support responsive to a reverse operation of the second winch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Inventor: William C. Barrett
  • Patent number: 6695566
    Abstract: The vehicle is provided with a loading platform (5) behind the driver's position, and with longitudinal structures which may be raised and retracted, on which are provided a number of rollers (8) with horizontal, parallel shafts which are transverse to the vehicle, on which loads may slide when these rollers are raised. It is also provided with a pair of multi-purpose plates (11), which when not needed are placed in the rear, lower area of the vehicle or behind the roll bar, and which may be coupled to either of the vehicle's sides or to its rear, so that they rest on the ground and provide loading and unloading ramps, while when they are placed on top of the platform they can increase its useful surface, or a lateral wall, depending on the position of these plates. In the center of the loading platform is also provided a large receptacle (16), closed by a pair of doors which have padding (27) on their inner surface, thereby providing seats for when persons must be carried.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Equipos Industriales de Manutencion S.A. (EINSA)
    Inventor: Carlos Javier Rodriguez Navio
  • Patent number: 6634849
    Abstract: A device for loading and unloading a motorcycle onto and from a transport surface of a vehicle includes a dolly assembly that has a plurality of spaced apart wheels. The wheels carry a frame structure that is adapted to support a front wheel of the motorcycle. The device also has a ramp assembly with a pivotable section. The ramp assembly has a loading surface, a first end disposed near the transport surface, and an opposite second end. The pivotable section can be pivoted about the first end so that the second end can be selectively raised and lowered. The device also has a winch mounted on a part of the vehicle. The winch is operable to selectively load and unload the dolly assembly and motorcycle along the loading surface between a ground surface and the transport surface. The pivotable ramp section can be pivoted as the motorcycle and dolly transfer between the ramp assembly and the transport surface to prevent the motorcycle from bottoming out while transferring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Inventor: Charles Clary
  • Patent number: 6616396
    Abstract: A motor vehicle mounted ramp for loading and unloading a personal mobility vehicle such as a wheelchair or a three-wheel scooter. A storage platform is removably attached to a floor of the motor vehicle, e.g., a van, and provides both a support surface for the personal mobility vehicle and a storage area for a ramp used during loading and unloading. The ramp is pulled from its storage area and pivots along an axis formed by its connection with the storage platform, such that the leading edge of the ramp rests against a ground surface. A winch attached to the storage platform is then used to move the personal mobility vehicle up or down the ramp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Inventor: Gerd Sternberg
  • 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: 6561746
    Abstract: A loading/unloading system designed to easily load and unload wheeled vehicles from the bed of a larger vehicle. The loading/unloading system generally includes a vertically flexible support surface on wheels, U-shaped loading tracks for receiving the wheels of the support surface, a winch with accompanying cable assembly for pulling the support surface onto the loading tracks and into the bed of a vehicle, and a set of offloading springs with accompanying cable assemblies for pushing the support surface out of the bed of the vehicle when desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Inventors: Cresward Broussard, Robert E. Borison
  • Patent number: RE41126
    Abstract: A frame configuration that is particularly adaptable for use on a trailer such that the frame configuration is operable in both a tilt mode of operation and a dump mode of operation. An actuating mechanism includes a linear actuator that is supported on the frame by a bracket and a yoke that connects to a load bed to power the vertical movement of the load bed in both tilt and dump functions. The linear actuator is pivotally mounted to permit a re-positioning of the actuator into an inoperative position. The frame configuration is provided with an articulated tilt frame in which the tongue is pivoted thereto allowing the load bed to pivot about a tilt axis which can coincide with the wheel axis of the trailer. The bed frame can be locked to the tilt frame for tilting upon articulation with the tongue, while a disconnection of the bed frame from the tilt frame enables the bed frame to pivot about the dump axis to provide a dump function in addition to the tilt function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Innovations By Contract, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph C. Hurlburt