Raising Or Lowering Of Load Or Load Holder Includes Vertical, Rectilinear Movement Patents (Class 414/540)
  • Patent number: 7628408
    Abstract: A method and system are disclosed for moving material past an obstacle and/or for moving materials in areas of limited space. A user can move so that the area and space required to move an object is reduced. A user can utilize the system and method to load an object and then tilt the object to be moved so that the area needed to move an object is reduced. After the object has been tilted, a user can move the object in locations characterized by various physical restrictions such as limited height, width, and length dimensions that do not ordinarily allow for movement of larger sized objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Inventors: Timothy Kolesa, Randal Pick
  • Patent number: 7611320
    Abstract: An accessory is mounted on the rear end of an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) to pull logs and the like out of areas that are not accessible to trucks or other such vehicles. The accessory is a winch that is mounted on the ATV via the hitch attachment of the ATV. A brace extends from the rear end of the ATV to support the winch. A pulley system is attached to the winch whereby a log or the like is attached to the ATV. A counterweight is also mounted on the ATV.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Inventor: Scott D. Bell
  • Publication number: 20090257855
    Abstract: An assembly providing such as a hair care professional the ability to secure and elevate a physically challenged individual seated upon a wheelchair. A frame includes first and second spaced apart and crosswise-reinforced channels defining travel locations for receiving forward and rearward pairs of wheelchair wheels. A pair of crosswise extending locks associated with intermediate locations of the channels define spaced distances from end locations thereof to prevent relative movement of the wheelchair wheels when supported thereupon. First and second supports secure to the frame and extend upwardly relative to an open area between the channels. A pedestal includes a floor base from which vertically actuates a cylinder arranged to extend through the frame open area and between the supports, the supports mounting to the cylinder in order to secure the frame in balanced and vertically displaceable fashion upon the pedestal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Inventor: Kimberly J. Iannelli
  • Publication number: 20090202329
    Abstract: A vehicle for transporting a ride-on trowel includes a vehicle frame forming a bay sized to receive the ride-on trowel and a system for supporting the ride-on trowel from the vehicle frame. The vehicle frame includes a lower frame that surrounds the bay on three sides. The lower frame has an open rear end and a tapered front end and is configured to closely match the shape of the ride-on trowel outer frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Inventor: Scott A. Richer, SR.
  • Patent number: 7559735
    Abstract: A container handling mechanism suitable for mounting on the side of a refuse vehicle for loading material from refuse containers is disclosed that includes a lift assembly, having a pair of spaced, generally parallel lift support members, attachable to a refuse vehicle, a carriage device reciprocally operable along the lift support members of the lift assembly, a container grabbing system carried by the carriage device and further including a pair of opposed grabber fingers and an actuator system for closing and opening the grabber fingers to engage and release containers of interest, the container grabbing system being vertically pivotable on a short radius for adjusting the position of and tipping a container. A chain and cylinder drive system operates the carriage device along the lift assembly, and a control system controls operation of the container handling mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Claudiu D. Pruteanu, Brian R. Meldahl, Randall L. Bice, Jason M. Gillard
  • Patent number: 7552683
    Abstract: A lifting stroke of a platform (3), liftably/lowerably supported through a cross link (13a), of a traveling body (1) for conveyance is increased with a low floor structure of the traveling body (1) maintained. In a conveying apparatus having the lifting/lowering platform, there are laid a first cam rail (47A) working on a first to-be-operated portion (28) to lift the platform (3) to a middle height (H1) and a second cam rail (48) working on a second to-be-operated portion (29) to lift the platform (3) from the middle height (H1) to the maximum height (H2). The second to-be-operated portion (29) is provided at a middle bending fulcrum (36) of a toggle link (32) interposed between the cross link (13a) and a fixing position on the conveying traveler body (1) side. When the platform (3) is lifted to the middle height (H1), the toggle link (32) is extended such that both upper fulcrums (37, 39) are separated, relative to the middle bending fulcrum (36), to both the front and rear in the traveling direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Assignee: DAIFUKU Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Nobuhiro Hayashi
  • Patent number: 7546869
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for positioning and supporting the work platform of a mobile workover rig is disclosed. The work platform of the preferred embodiment of the present invention utilizes a unique support structure and automated positioning system for positioning the work platform at the desired height above the wellhead equipment. The preferred embodiment of the present invention utilizes a specialized automated “pinning” system that secures the work platform at the desired height. Additionally, the present invention utilizes one or more support cylinders to position and support the work platform in the horizontal position over the wellhead equipment. The automated positioning and pinning system of the present invention is a unique system that significantly reduces the time required to position the work platform of a mobile workover rig in the operating position, as well as significantly reduces the risk of injury to rig personnel assisting in the positioning operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2009
    Assignee: National-Oilwell, L.P.
    Inventors: Jeff A. Lambert, James C. Garrett, Kenneth L. Cambern, Joel M. Ferland, Jay D. Furnish, Donald W. Johnson, Michael R. Zemanek, James R. Cirone, Calvin Blankenship
  • Patent number: 7509187
    Abstract: A wheelchair lift having a pivot and a platform. A rotary position sensor is mounted at the pivot and configured to generate an output signal. A controller is configured to receive the output signal of the rotary position sensor and determine the position of the platform based on the output of the rotary position sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Assignee: The Braun Corporation
    Inventors: John W. Hayes, Keith D. Heigl
  • Publication number: 20090074548
    Abstract: A device for mounting on a vehicle is shiftable between at least a first active position, in which it constitutes an underrun protection, and a second active position, in which it constitutes a vehicle support. Hereby, the functions of an underrun protection and vehicle support may be provided in a combined device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2004
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Applicant: VOLVO LASTVAGNAR AB
    Inventors: Benny Liljeblad, Hans Regnell, Jens Gustafsson
  • Publication number: 20080273956
    Abstract: A counterbalance for a ramp assembly includes a chain assembly and a spring assembly. The spring assembly includes a spring and first and second spring fittings. The first spring fitting restrains a first end of the spring when the ramp portion is between a neutral position and the stowed position and moves the first end of the spring toward a second end of the spring when the ramp portion moves from the neutral position toward the deployed position. The second spring fitting is spaced from the first spring fitting and restrains the second end of the spring when the ramp portion is between the neutral position and the deployed position. The second spring fitting moves the second end of the spring toward the first end of the spring when the ramp portion moves from the neutral position toward the stowed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2008
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Applicant: LIFT-U, DIVISION OF HOGAN MFG., INC.
    Inventors: Donald Morris, David Johnson
  • Patent number: 7442885
    Abstract: A mobile weight enforcement vehicle comprising a vehicle body, a hydraulic vehicle weighing scale mechanism, and a computer measurement display, wherein the hydraulic vehicle weighing scale mechanism is disposed on one side of the vehicle body, and has a hydraulic folding mechanism and a rotating mechanism connecting to a retractable scale crutch. The retractable scale crutch may be folded within the vehicle body conveniently and firmly, or be put on the ground outside the vehicle body so as to examine the weight of the loaded vehicles with the mobile scale device. The examining/monitoring results can be indicated on the computer measurement display, where the operations of catching speeding vehicles, stolen vehicles, or any vehicles that violates traffic regulations are also displayed. The invention provides a diversified and highly efficient tool for maintaining the traffic safety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Information Field Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chen-chen Hsu
  • Patent number: 7427184
    Abstract: A system and method of lifting and transporting a boat. A boat carrier has a chassis supported by wheels and a boat-carrying frame. The boat-carrying frame includes a plurality of outwardly-extending frame members for securing a boat during transit of the carrier and at least one lift assembly mounted thereon. The lift assembly includes at least one vertically moveable lift assembly arm extending away from the boat-carrying frame beyond the outwardly-extending frame members. The lift assembly arm is moveable between a lowered position whereby a boat may be placed on the lift assembly arm and a raised position aligned with one of the outwardly-extending frame members. The boat is placed on the lift assembly arm in the lowered position from a point outward of the outwardly-extending frame members and lifted with the lift assembly arm to the raised assembly arm position aligned with one of the outwardly-extending frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Assignee: Vespoli, USA
    Inventor: Michael Vespoli
  • Patent number: 7396202
    Abstract: A preferred embodiment of a lift and carrier assembly for a personal-transportation vehicle includes a deck frame, a platform, and a trolley assembly mounted on the deck frame. The trolley assembly includes a drive nut, a motor for rotating the drive nut, and a drive screw threadably coupled to the drive nut so that rotation of the drive nut causes the platform and the drive motor to translate linearly in relation to the deck frame. The lift and carrier assembly also includes an arm assembly mounted on the trolley system and comprising a first and a second arm member, and an actuator pivotally coupled to the first and second arm members for moving the first and second arm members so that first and second arm members move the platform between an upper and a lower position in relation to the deck frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: Cook Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas A. Panzarella, James B. Eldon, III, David D. McClanahan
  • Publication number: 20080101905
    Abstract: A wheelchair lift assembly is provided. The wheelchair lift assembly includes a frame, a platform, and a lift mechanism associated with the frame. The lift mechanism includes a stabilizing arm and at least one lift arm member having a first end connected to the platform. The first end of the lift arm member pivots and translates relative to the platform as the platform is reciprocated between raised and lowered positions. The wheelchair lift assembly also includes a drive assembly. The drive assembly selectively provides a driving force to the lift mechanism without directly providing the driving force to the stabilizing arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2006
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Applicant: Lift-U, Division of Hogan Mfg., Inc.
    Inventors: Donald Morris, Alan R. Cohn, Roger Young
  • Patent number: 7351027
    Abstract: A vehicle loader mechanism mountable on a vehicle having a cargo deck for lifting loads onto the cargo deck is disclosed. The vehicle loader mechanism includes a base mountable on the cargo deck of the vehicle and a lift mechanism movable between a lowered position and a raised position. A drive linkage is coupled between the base and the lift mechanism and movable between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration for lateral movement of the lift mechanism. A leveling linkage is coupled between the base and the lift mechanism for movement with the drive linkage and to prevent tilting of the lift mechanism during movement of the drive linkage between the extended configuration and the retracted configuration. A cylinder is coupled to the drive linkage for moving the drive linkage between the extended configuration and the retracted configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Inventor: Byron M. Ruch
  • Patent number: 7334776
    Abstract: An apparatus for loading an object into a vehicle, the vehicle having a trunk lid, the apparatus comprising: a line; an actuator adapted for applying a tensile force to the line in response to an actuator command, and disposed and adapted for transmitting at least a portion of the tensile force to the trunk lid; an end-effector mechanically coupled to the line and adapted for transmitting the tensile force and an operator force to the object and for generating an operator force measurement; and a controller adapted for generating the actuator command from the operator force measurement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Inventor: Homayoon Kazerooni
  • Publication number: 20080044268
    Abstract: An access system for a vehicle includes a gateway module that connects to the vehicle data bus, and an interface system coupled to the gateway module via a gateway bus. The interface system is also coupled to a ramp control subsystem that operates to stow and deploy a ramp for providing wheelchair access to the vehicle. A door control subsystem is coupled to the vehicle data bus and operates in response to data signals sent over the vehicle data bus. The gateway module is configured to relay signals relating to the status of the ramp from the gateway bus to the vehicle data bus to coordinate operation of the door and the ramp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventors: Keith D. Heigl, Justin C. Gilmore, Andrew L. Henseleit
  • Patent number: 7306421
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an inside vehicle lift for transferring a load through a rear door opening of a vehicle. The lift comprises a load platform for receiving the load. The load platform is horizontally movable between a loading position with the load platform being disposed behind a rear bumper of the vehicle and a transport position inside the vehicle. Lift actuators move vertically a lift support base with the load platform between a first vertical position with the load platform being in close proximity to ground and a second vertical position suitable for horizontally moving the load platform into the vehicle. The inside vehicle lift is highly beneficial for installation in minivans and SUVs enabling loading of a large number of different commercially available scooters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Inventor: Clifford L. Wolfe
  • Patent number: 7300238
    Abstract: A multi-function winch for interchangeably attaching to either the front of an ATV or the back of the ATV. The multi-function winch includes a front mounting assembly, a back mounting assembly, a column assembly, an elbow assembly, and a winch assembly. The front mounting assembly attaches to the front cargo rack of the ATV. The back mounting assembly attaches to the back cargo rack of the ATV and to the trailer hitch of the ATV. The column assembly is interchangeably attached to either the front mounting assembly or to the back mounting assembly. The elbow assembly is interchangeably attached to the front mounting assembly. The winch assembly is interchangeably attached to either the rear mounting assembly, the column assembly, or the elbow assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Inventor: Scott James
  • Patent number: 7293607
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for positioning and supporting the work platform of a mobile workover rig is disclosed. The work platform of the preferred embodiment of the present invention utilizes a unique support structure and automated positioning system for positioning the work platform at the desired height above the wellhead equipment. The preferred embodiment of the present invention utilizes a specialized automated “pinning” system that secures the work platform at the desired height. Additionally, the present invention utilizes one or more support cylinders to position and support the work platform in the horizontal position over the wellhead equipment. The automated positioning and pinning system of the present invention is a unique system that significantly reduces the time required to position the work platform of a mobile workover rig in the operating position, as well as significantly reduces the risk of injury to rig personnel assisting in the positioning operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Assignee: National-Oilwell, L.P.
    Inventors: Jeff A. Lambert, James C. Garrett, Kenneth L. Cambern, Joel M. Ferland, Jay D. Furnish, Donald W. Johnson, Michael R. Zemanek, James R. Cirone, Calvin Blankenship
  • Publication number: 20070258801
    Abstract: A lift suitable for use with vehicles is described. The lift allows access to a ramp stored under the vehicle, while preventing unauthorized use of the lift.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventors: Karapet Ablabutyan, Paul Bark, Levon Hambardzumyan, Brent Stratton, Maxine Stratton
  • Patent number: 7290777
    Abstract: A transportable device, such as a cart, for transporting and elevating an imaging media cartridge into a press printer may include a base platform, first and second elevation members disposed thereon, a panel disposed between the first and second elevation members, and first and second elevator platforms. The panel may include a pair of opposite vertical faces along which the elevator platforms slide to mutually exchange elevations by vertically sliding the platforms in opposite directions. The device may be used for a method of transporting and elevating an imaging media cartridge into a press printer at an installation height above a floor. Additionally, the device may be used for a method of removing and storing an imaging media cartridge from a press printer at an installation height above the floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: Todd K. Preston, Richard A. Kalb, James J. Spence
  • Patent number: 7179040
    Abstract: A luggage storage structure for an automobile includes: a storage concave portion formed so as to project downward on a floor panel and capable of storing luggage, a plate member for approximately closing an upper part of the storage concave portion, and a transfer mechanism for transferring the plate member approximately up and down in an upper part of the floor panel. The luggage structure is securely protected by the plate member and the transfer mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Assignee: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toshio Masuda, Atsushi Atake, Masahiko Inoue
  • Patent number: 7104429
    Abstract: A rack device with a height adjustable depending on the cargo carried and the size of the vehicle used. The rack device includes a pair of end portions each comprising a first bar and a second bar coupled to and extending upwardly away from the first bar. A third bar is coupled to and extends away from the second bar. A fourth bar is coupled to and extends upwardly away from the third bar. A fifth bar is removably coupled to and extends between the second bars of each of the end portions. A sixth bar is removably coupled to and extends between the first bar of each of the end portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Inventor: Zealla Flores
  • Patent number: 7083373
    Abstract: A wheelchair storage and moving assembly includes a housing having a top wall, a bottom wall, a back wall and a pair of lateral walls. A front side of the housing forms an entry into an interior of the housing. A door has a bottom edge, a top edge and a pair of side edges. A hinge hingedly couples the bottom edge the bottom wall adjacent to the entry such that the door may be positioned in a vertical position covering the entry or angled away from the housing and defining a ramp. A coupler is mounted on the door for selectively coupling the door to the housing in a closed position. A plurality of securing members selectively secures the housing to the vehicle such that one of the lateral walls faces the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Inventor: Maryann V. Boudreau
  • Patent number: 6971834
    Abstract: A wheelchair lift (20) for a vehicle is disclosed. The wheelchair lift includes a lift platform (22) coupled to a support structure (32) by an attachment assembly (74). The lift platform is reciprocal between a stowed position and an extended position, wherein the lift platform is coplanar with a first plane. The wheelchair lift also includes a redundant support assembly (80) in communication with the lift platform to provide secondary support of the lift platform when the lift platform is in the extended position and to maintain the lift platform in a second plane substantially parallel to the first plane if a portion of the attachment assembly fails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: Lift-U, division of Hogan Mfg., Inc.
    Inventor: Don Morris
  • Patent number: 6887027
    Abstract: An external lift for a scooter includes a load sensor actuated by rotation of the platform as a load is applied anywhere on the platform, a lock mechanism for preventing the platform from rotating in a loaded and raised position, and a lock mechanism for preventing the platform from rotating in an unloaded and raised position. A pair of shoes on a hold down prevent a scooter from leaving the lift unintendedly. The lift includes a fixed post and a moveable post. A roller coupled to the moveable post engages a small ramp on the end of the fixed post, thereby further stabilizing the lift and increasing the lifting capacity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: Vantage Mobility International LLC
    Inventors: Neil Brendon O'Leary, William E. Gest
  • Patent number: 6884018
    Abstract: A combination sport vehicle lift and carrier apparatus for a motor vehicle includes a mounting mechanism for releasably connecting to a conventional receiver hitch, a platform with a yoke mechanism for cradling a front wheel of a sport vehicle loaded on the platform and for supporting the sport vehicle, lifting mechanism for maintaining the platform in a horizontal orientation while selectively moving the platform to and from a loading configuration and a transporting configuration, and stabilizing mechanism for stabilizing the platform in the transporting configuration. The combination sport vehicle lift and carrier apparatus may also include an auxiliary conventional receiver hitch for towing purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Inventors: Andrew L. Dugan, Paul Christiansen, William S. Wenke
  • Patent number: 6825628
    Abstract: A ramp deployment control system includes a controller, a kneeling motor operatively coupled to the controller and a ramp motor operatively coupled to the controller. The controller energizes the kneeling motor to kneel or stand a vehicle and energizes the ramp motor to deploy or stow a ramp. The controller is operatively coupled to a communication pathway, and a door control system is operatively coupled to the controller. The door control system is operable to monitor and control operation of a door. A standard control module is operatively coupled to the communication pathway and is operable to send door operation commands on the communication pathway. The controller selectively delays execution of the door operation commands by the door control system while operating the ramp motor to deploy or stow the ramp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Assignee: The Braun Corporation
    Inventors: Keith D. Heigl, Ronald W. Goodrich, Donald S. Sturm
  • Publication number: 20040156704
    Abstract: A load lifting apparatus with base frame that has elements to engage a surface which supports the load lifting apparatus. A plurality of lift posts ate attached to and extend upward from the base frame. A load platform for supporting an object being lifted can be raised and lowered with respect to the base frame. The load platform includes a motor arrangement which rotationally drives a plurality of reels. A plurality of flexible ties are connected to the plurality of lift posts and wind onto and unwind from plurality of reels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2003
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Inventor: Robert Heynssens
  • Patent number: 6769858
    Abstract: An electrically operated, compact, loader apparatus adaptable to a vehicle such as a truck bed of a cargo rack of an ATV, including a self deploying and recovery load platform and a folding telescopic mast that lies flat on the cargo rack of a truck bed or ATV allowing other cargo to be carried on top of the loader.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2004
    Inventors: Adron E. Butler, Jason Nealy
  • Publication number: 20040094365
    Abstract: A wheelchair lift (10) for a vehicle is disclosed. The wheelchair lift includes a lift platform assembly (13) coupled to a frame (18). The wheelchair lift also includes a reciprocating assembly (12) in communication with the lift platform to reciprocate the lift platform between a raised position and a lowered position. A locking mechanism (47) is coupled to the frame and lockingly engages a portion of the reciprocating assembly (34) to maintain communication between the reciprocating assembly and the lift platform if a portion of the reciprocating assembly fails.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2003
    Publication date: May 20, 2004
    Applicant: Lift-U, Division of Hogan Mfg., Inc.
    Inventor: Don Morris
  • Publication number: 20040076500
    Abstract: A portable apparatus for lifting an object, such as a wheelchair, between an upper and lower position, such as a vehicle. An electric lifting device with an independent power source, such as a battery, which is continually charged using a cigarette lighter or auxiliary power source, with a temporary connecting device, such as a quick disconnect, from said vehicle. The base is solely connected by use of temporary mechanical attachments to the vehicle seat mounting pins. The apparatus also incorporates a sliding action of the platforms which enables clearance over physical objects of the vehicle, such as a bumper. The apparatus also preferably includes a folding assembly for moving in a compact configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Applicant: Mr. Richard Loy Coppersmith
    Inventor: Richard Loy Coppersmith
  • Publication number: 20040057823
    Abstract: A wheelchair lift (20) for a vehicle is disclosed. The wheelchair lift includes a lift platform (22) coupled to a support structure (32) by an attachment assembly (74). The lift platform is reciprocal between a stowed position and an extended position, wherein the lift platform is coplanar with a first plane. The wheelchair lift also includes a redundant support assembly (80) in communication with the lift platform to provide secondary support of the lift platform when the lift platform is in the extended position and to maintain the lift platform in a second plane substantially parallel to the first plane if a portion of the attachment assembly fails.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Applicant: Lift-U, Division of Hogan Mfg., Inc.
    Inventor: Don Morris
  • Patent number: 6705821
    Abstract: The game hanger apparatus is attachable to a tow hitch of a pickup truck. The folded game hanger can be taken to the site in the bed of the truck and speedily installed in the tow hitch for hanging, cleaning and butchering large game, such as deer and small bears. The apparatus comprises a mast and fixed boom of square cross-section, and having a winch, pulleys and a gambrel with a pair of end hooks and a pair of pins which engage a jib at the end of the boom to prevent the game from twisting. The horizontal bottom and top bars are locked in place by removable pins for operation, and unlocked by removing the pins for folding the unit for storage. The bottom bar is inserted into a tow hitch and locked in place with the hitch pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Inventors: Michael L. Philipps, Terry L. Philips, Charles Robinett
  • Publication number: 20040022614
    Abstract: The invention is a handicapped lift seat which replaces a vehicle seat in a vehicle and allows a handicapped person to raise the vehicle seat up, swing it out of the vehicle, and lower it to a position near the ground for easy entry and exit. The handicapped lift seat includes a vehicle seat that is mounted to a seat plate, which is attached to a screw jack assembly. Activation of the electric motor of the screw jack causes the vehicle seat to be raised up and down. Once disengaged from a plate mounted on the vehicle floor, the handicapped lift seat can be swung in or out of the vehicle manually and can be lowered by the motor to a position for easy entry and exit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2002
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventor: Larrey Anderson
  • Patent number: 6685421
    Abstract: A hitch mounted lift assembly for loading, transporting, and unloading wheelchairs and the like from a pickup truck, in particular. The hitch mounted lift assembly includes a hitch receiver which is adapted to be securely mounted to a vehicle; and also includes a hitch assembly including a hitch member being removably and engageably received in the hitch receiver; and further includes a pivot support assembly including an elongate pivot support member being pivotally attached to the hitch member; and also includes a plurality of sleeves being spacedly attached to the elongate pivot support member; and further a platform support assembly including an elongate platform support member being pivotally received through the sleeves; and also includes a platform being securely attached to the platform support assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Inventor: Charles N. Reeves
  • Patent number: 6655895
    Abstract: The invention is a vehicle-mounted cargo transport apparatus and a method for mounting the cargo transport apparatus on a vehicle is such a way that increases both the loading capacity and stability of the cargo transport apparatus. At a minimum, the cargo transport apparatus comprises a lifting device and at least one load-bearing member. The lifting device is connected to the vehicle and has a cargo holding area, such as a platform, connected to the lifting device for loading cargo. The cargo holding area has at least two positions: a traveling position and a loading position. Cargo is loaded onto the cargo holding area in the loading position and then raised to a vertical position above the traveling position. At least one load beam, preferably two load beams, are then connected to the vehicle in a location where the load-supporting member can support the lifting device in the traveling position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Inventor: Gilbert L. Dahl
  • Publication number: 20030190222
    Abstract: This invention deals with a multipurpose material-handling device. It is possible to quickly modify the backbone beam dolly to perform a variety of material-handling tasks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2002
    Publication date: October 9, 2003
    Inventor: Steven Ross Riggin
  • Patent number: 6626748
    Abstract: A game hoist and carrier comprises a rack having expandable sides for transporting game from a hunting site. A hoist mast is mounted to the rack, and a vertical support shaft is attached to the rack for stabilizing the game hoist and carrier above a surface during the lifting of an animal carcass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Inventor: Paul A. Homer, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6616397
    Abstract: A portable hoist system and method of use in combination with the rear bed and ball hitch of a pick-up truck. All of the system components may be contained in a portable bag about four feet long. The system components include plural boom sections, plural cables or support lines and a chain element. Two of the boom sections contain eyelets for support and lift purposes. The top side walls of the pick-up truck bed include eyelets for upward support of the boom sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Inventor: Jimmie G. Lester
  • Patent number: 6609481
    Abstract: A game animal lift assembly for all terrain vehicles (ATVs) that is used to lift the carcass of a dead game animal from the ground up onto the carrying rack of an ATV. The game animal lift assembly includes a winch assembly having a flexible winch tether, a receiver hitch connecting assembly, a lifting mechanism horizontal support rod, two height adjustable vertical ground support bar assemblies, an adjustable length chassis support bar assembly, and a pivoting game animal lifting mechanism pivotally attached to the lifting mechanism horizontal support rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Inventor: Lane McCarty
  • Publication number: 20030156930
    Abstract: An article carrier for a vehicle is attachable to a rear mounted vehicle attachment, such as an elevatable lift attachment. The article carrier includes a tray having at least one article receiving track mounted therein for receiving an article. The tray is affixable to the vehicle attachment. A cover is movably mounted on the tray for movement between a first closed position enclosing the tray and an article mounted thereon and a second, open position wherein the cover is spaced from the tray to expose substantially all of the tray for article loading and unloading. Article tie-downs are carried on the tray for securing an article mounted on the tray in a fixed, stationary position. Latches are provided on the cover and the tray for releasably latching the cover in the first closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2002
    Publication date: August 21, 2003
    Inventor: Artie A. Ahedo
  • Patent number: 6599080
    Abstract: In a device for transfering especially a person sitting in a wheel-chair between a platform and a passenger department of a vehicle having a floor on a higher level than the platform a first floor surface (5) is arranged inside the vehicle closest to an entrance (2) into the vehicle from a platform side and arranged on substantially the same level as the platform. Power means are adapted to move a support surface (6) arranged inside the vehicle and reachable through the first floor surface (5) between platform level and the level of the floor of the passenger department so as to join a first floor surface and a second floor surface (10) leading to the passenger department or belonging thereto, respectively. A staircase (8) is arranged between the two levels beside the support surface (6) and directly reachable through the first floor surface (5) as well as the second floor surface (10) independently of the position of the support surface (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Assignee: Daimler Chrysler AG
    Inventor: Willy Karlsson
  • Patent number: 6579056
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a wafer transfer robot mount/demount cart for simply mounting and demounting a wafer transfer robot which is linearly, substantially horizontally reciprocated in a wafer transfer apparatus to transfer wafers. A pair of mount/demount cart-side rails 9 which can be connected to a pair of wafer transfer apparatus-side guide rails mounted inside a wafer transfer apparatus D is mounted on a raised portion 5 of the mount/demount cart A. A joint rail S is mounted in a gap between the pair of wafer transfer apparatus-side rails and the pair of mount/demount cart-side rails 9 so as to slide a wafer transfer robot R onto the pair of mount/demount cart-side rails 9 via the joint rail S.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Assignees: Tokyo Electron Limited, Shinko Electric Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshiaki Sasaki, Takaaki Hirooka, Shuji Hagihara
  • Patent number: 6579055
    Abstract: A frame apparatus engages a pair of hitch members permanently attached to the undercarriage structure of a motor home. Brackets containing guide rollers attach a left and right upright movable rail to the frame. An electrically driven set of gears drive a vertically positioned threaded rod attached to a gear housing connected to a transverse portion of the frame apparatus. A bottom of the threaded rod is attached to a transverse rod connecting the left and right movable rails. The bottom portion of such movable rails are attached to rearwardly directed support arms which support a transverse track adapted to transport a motorcycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Inventor: Richard Williams
  • Publication number: 20030099531
    Abstract: A frame apparatus engages a pair of hitch members permanently attached to the undercarriage structure of a motor home. Brackets containing guide rollers attach a left and right upright movable rail to the frame. An electrically driven set of gears drive a vertically positioned threaded rod attached to a gear housing connected to a transverse portion of the frame apparatus. A bottom of the threaded rod is attached to a transverse rod connecting the left and right movable rails. The bottom portion of such movable rails are attached to rearwardly directed support arms which support a transverse track adapted to transport a motorcycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2001
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Inventor: Richard Williams
  • Patent number: 6530738
    Abstract: An article loader apparatus is provided for mounting on an all terrain vehicle (ATV) and includes a vehicle mounting assembly for mounting the apparatus onto the vehicle. A strut connector is connected to the vehicle mounting assembly. A strut member is connected to the strut connector for supporting the strut member on the vehicle mounting assembly. A cable guide is connected to a distal end of the strut member. A winch assembly is connected to the vehicle mounting assembly. The winch assembly includes a winch motor and a winch cable controlled by the winch motor. The winch cable is threaded through the cable guide. A stabilizer member connector is connected to a distal end of the strut member, and a pair of stabilizer chains are connected between the stabilizer member connector and the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Inventor: Willie R. Maxwell
  • Publication number: 20030002969
    Abstract: A telescoping bridge crane system arranged to be mounted over a floor of a structure, e.g., a vehicle trailer. The system includes a pair of enclosed mounting tracks for slidably supporting a runway frame. Trucks are located within the mounting tracks to move therein. Each truck includes a hanger. The runway frame also includes two enclosed tracks which are directly supported by the hangers so that they are located beside and parallel to the mounting tracks. A bridge section is mounted between the enclosed tracks of the runway frame by another pair of trucks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2001
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Inventor: Philip E. Risser
  • Patent number: RE39646
    Abstract: The invention is a vehicle-mounted cargo transport apparatus and a method for mounting the cargo transport apparatus on a vehicle is in such a way that increases both the loading capacity and stability of the cargo transport apparatus. At a minimum, the cargo transport apparatus comprises a lifting device and at least one load-bearing member. The lifting device is connected to the vehicle and has a cargo holding area, such as a platform, connected to the lifting device for loading cargo. The cargo holding area has at least two positions: a traveling position and a loading position. Cargo is loaded onto the cargo holding area in the loading position and then raised to a vertical position above the traveling position. At least one load beam, preferably two load beams, are then connected to the vehicle in a location where the load-supporting member can support the lifting device cargo in the traveling position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Inventor: Gilbert L. Dehl