And Carrier Or Mover Includes Means Enabling Additional Movement Having Horizontal Component Patents (Class 414/541)
  • Patent number: 11591190
    Abstract: A hydraulic crane comprising: —a rotatable column (7); —a crane boom system (10) comprising two or more liftable and lowerable crane booms (11, 13); and —an electronic control device (25), which is configured to prevent an execution of crane boom movements that would make the lifting moment of the crane exceed the maximum allowed lifting moment of the crane, and to continuously establish position information as to the prevailing position of the load suspension point (P) of the crane boom system. When the lifting moment of the crane has reached a limit value at a given level below the maximum allowed lifting moment, the electronic control device is configured to prevent the execution of any combination of crane boom movements that would increase the horizontal distance between the load suspension point and said vertical axis of rotation and at the same time allow the execution of any combination of crane boom movements that keeps said horizontal distance unchanged or reduces said horizontal distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2023
    Assignee: Hiab AB
    Inventors: Sten Sirén, Per Gustafsson, Lars Rydahl
  • Patent number: 11491059
    Abstract: A ramp assembly comprises a support defining a vertical and horizontal pivot axes and a ramp with a first ramp portion coupled at one side thereof to the support, a second ramp portion, and a hinge connecting the second ramp portion to the first ramp portion. The second ramp section is manually movable between a generally folded stowed position being disposed in a surface-to-surface facing arrangement with the first ramp section and an unfolded deployed position being disposed in an end-to-end facing arrangement with the first ramp section. The ramp is manually pivotable on the support, about the vertical and horizontal pivot axes, between a folded stowed position, an unfolded deployed position defining an inclined ramp surface, and a folded intermediate position. The ramp can be installed on a vehicle for use by non-ambulatory passengers and be disposed in a position allowing unhindered use of the vehicle by ambulatory passengers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2022
    Assignee: MPOWER MOBILITY, INC.
    Inventor: Stanton David Saucier
  • Patent number: 11107717
    Abstract: A cassette transport device is disclosed which includes a smart cart, a base expansion frame mounted on the smart cart and a cassette-loading frame fixed to the base expansion frame. The cassette-loading frame is partitioned into several segments each accommodating a plurality of cassette trays. Each of the cassette trays defines, on its surface, a first trough and a second trough in the first trough. The first trough is configured to retain a cassette of a first size, and the second trough is configured to retain a cassette of a second size. With the first and second troughs, each of the cassette trays is able to retain a cassette of either the first or second size, making the cassette transport device possible to be used in transportation of the both types of cassettes with a high yield. Moreover, the smart cart is capable of automated transportation without human intervention or track construction while enabling savings in transportation cost, time and labor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Assignee: SHANGHAI MICRO ELECTRONICS EQUIPMENT (GROUP) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Lingyu Li, Qixin Xu
  • Patent number: 11009108
    Abstract: A pulley assembly includes an elongate pulley hanger, supported at the upper end of a pillar rising from and dependently supported by a base bracket, and first and second pulleys slidingly supported by the pulley hanger. The base bracket securely mounts the pulley assembly to the top of a liquid storage tank. Each provided pulley implements, or is otherwise provided with, a clamp, whereby each pulley is readily positioned along the pulley hanger, and, when in a desired position, easily and securely fixed in the desired position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Inventor: Joshua Spencer
  • Patent number: 10940786
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to properly maneuver heavy cargo to an ergonomically correct lifting height, including for equipment stored on firefighting and rescue vehicles. Mechanically and electromechanically actuated means for raising, lowering, and storing heavy equipment in, on, and around vehicles and other structures are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2021
    Assignee: OnScene Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Ronald L. Weinmeister, Eric Martin Krug, Timothy James Bradney, Robert M. Clark
  • Patent number: 10875561
    Abstract: A transportation assembly structured and configured to facilitate the storage, transportation, and use (e.g., viewing) of a television or other display device is presented herein. The transportation assembly includes a positioning assembly structured to movably mount or support the display device to a main body. In particular, the positioning assembly includes a linear actuator as well as guide rails to selectively position the display device between a raised position and a lowered position. A plurality of collapsible legs are provided to allow the assembly to be either transported on wheels while the legs are extended or placed into a vehicle while the legs are collapsed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2020
    Inventor: Thomas M. Marker
  • Patent number: 10758433
    Abstract: A system for lifting a wheelchair into and out of a vehicle is provided. The system includes a driver side and a passenger side wheelchair supports, a driver side and a passenger side extendable lift assemblies, and a control system. The driver side extendable lift assembly is arranged to move the driver side wheelchair support between a stowed position within the vehicle and a deployed position extended horizontally outside the vehicle and lowered towards the ground. The passenger side extendable lift assembly is arranged to move the passenger side wheelchair support between its stowed position and its deployed position. The control system is configured to independently operate the driver side extendable lift assembly and the passenger side extendable lift assembly to separately or simultaneously move the driver side wheelchair support and the passenger side wheelchair support between their respective stowed positions and their respective deployed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2020
    Assignee: DIGNIFIED LIVING LLC
    Inventors: David Jeffrey Aitchison, Michael Dale Aitchison, Kris Lee Minyard
  • Patent number: 10336260
    Abstract: An exemplary vehicle assembly includes, among other things, a sensor device that detects a location of a structure outside a vehicle, a running board moveable between a stowed position and a deployed position. The deployed position is adjusted relative to the vehicle based on the location of the structure detected by the sensor. An exemplary running board deploying method includes, among other things, detecting a location of a structure outside a vehicle, and transitioning a running board from a stowed position to a deployed position. The deployed position is adjusted relative to the vehicle based on the location of the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2019
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Stuart Salter, Paul Kenneth Dellock, Terry Lobsinger, Mark Beilman, Aaron Johnson
  • Patent number: 10328837
    Abstract: A vehicular mobile storage cart, for a car having a hitch (21, 22), the cart comprising: a hitch gripping mechanism (30), connectable to the car hitch (21, 22); a lifting mechanism (40), connectable to the hitch gripping mechanism (30); and a wheel cart (10), connectable to the lifting mechanism; wherein the lifting mechanism being adapted to diminish its dimensions in a folded state thereof to allow opening a back door of a vehicle thereof when being folded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Inventor: Moshe Peles
  • Patent number: 9974702
    Abstract: A wheelchair lift (1) includes a platform assembly (10) to receive a wheelchair, the platform assembly (10) being made from aluminum, a supporting assembly (20) to moveably hold the platform assembly (10), the supporting assembly (20) being made from aluminum, and a coupling device (30) to pivotably couple the platform assembly (10) to the supporting assembly (20), the coupling device (30) being made from one of steel or high strength aluminum or titanium or magnesium or combinations thereof. The platform assembly (10) includes a number of profiles (101, . . . , 107) of aluminum. The coupling device (30) is fixed to a first one of the plurality of profiles (101) of the platform assembly (10), and is pivotably coupled to the supporting assembly (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2018
    Assignee: Autolift S.r.l.
    Inventor: Marco Gallingani
  • Patent number: 9918885
    Abstract: A scooter lift having a wireless remote control that only signals the lift to raise or lower a platform when the remote control is positioned behind the automobile. The remote control only transmit signals if it has a clear line of sight with a transmitter eye located on the back of the control box for the scooter lift. An accelerometer prevents lowering of the platform when it detects motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Inventor: Tyrone Soklaski
  • Patent number: 9545868
    Abstract: An apparatus for loading, handling and transporting waste containers includes a vehicle having a main frame and a load container handler, the load container handler including a main frame assembly having a rear and mounted to and atop the vehicle main frame; a pivot assembly pivotally connected to the main frame assembly to rotate about a first axis; a main jib assembly connected with the pivot assembly to reciprocate along a first line between jib extended and retracted positions; a carriage assembly connected with the main jib assembly to reciprocate along a second line between carriage extended and retracted positions and including container connection elements operable to rotate about a second axis and for engaging with and holding a container; and, motive elements for moving the pivot assembly, main jib assembly and carriage assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: GALBREATH LLC
    Inventor: John J. Downing
  • Patent number: 9358905
    Abstract: A hydraulic chair lift in a vehicle includes a rod that is attached to the floor and the roof of the vehicle, a piston that is arranged around the rod in a middle zone of the rod, a barrel that envelopes the piston, and two heads, each of which is arranged on an end of the barrel. Further, the two heads are provided with a channel for the passage of the rod. Additionally, a rod gland is arranged in each of the two heads surrounding the channel. Relative to the rod gland, the channel includes a first inner channel part with a first diameter and a second inner channel part with second diameter. The first diameter is smaller than the second diameter and the ratio of the length and the diameter of the first channel part is less than 3/5.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Inventor: Anne Marie Emilie Weersink
  • Patent number: 9108556
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a vertical hydraulic cylinder axle arrangement that can receive flexible power lines through the cylinder. In particular, a hollow piston rod having a longitudinally extending passage through which hydraulic hoses and electrical lines can pass is incorporated into a heavy-load transporter. A portion of the piston rod defines a splined shaft to mechanically engage a rotating slew gear drive to permit omnidirectional steering. The piston rod extends downward to form a trunnion mount on which drive wheels can articulate laterally to conform to irregularities in various surfaces and other inclinations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2015
    Assignee: INTELLIPORT CORPORATION
    Inventor: Melvin Dean Terry
  • Patent number: 9061624
    Abstract: One variation may include a product including a vehicle including a powered lift arm connected thereto and a hand connected to the powered lift arm, and a body panel ramp, the hand being constructed arranged to capture a grab pin on a container, and wherein the powered lift arm, the hand in the body panel ramp are constructed and arranged so that the power lift arm may load and unload a container onto and off of the vehicle wherein the container rolls over the body panel ramp. One variation may include a method including providing a vehicle and a container, wherein the vehicle including at least one powered lift arm connected thereto, a hand connected to the powered lift arm, and a body panel ramp, the hand capturing a grab pin on the container, unloading the container from the vehicle comprising moving the at least one power lift arm so that the container rolls along and off of the body panel ramp and off of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2015
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Wade W. Bryant
  • Publication number: 20150139766
    Abstract: One embodiment is directed to a personal robotic system, comprising: an electromechanical mobile base defining a cross-sectional envelope when viewed in a plane substantially parallel to a plane of a floor upon which the mobile base is operated; a torso assembly movably coupled to the mobile base; a head assembly movably coupled to the torso; a releasable bin-capturing assembly movably coupled to the torso; and a controller operatively coupled to the mobile base, torso assembly, head assembly, and bin-capturing assembly, and configured to capture a bin with the bin-capturing assembly and move the torso assembly relative to the mobile base so that the captured bin fits as closely as possible within the cross-sectional envelope of the mobile base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2014
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Applicant: Willow Garage, Inc.
    Inventor: Steve Cousins
  • Publication number: 20150117996
    Abstract: A lift interface device for releasably coupling a vehicle to a container, the vehicle of the type engaging the container through a passage under the container, the lift interface device comprises a base adapted to be secured to the vehicle. A frame is positioned over the vehicle and connected to the base with at least a rotational joint adjacent to a leading end of the lift interface device, such that the frame is movable from a coupling orientation to a raised orientation, the frame comprising at least one support surface for supporting the container when the frame is rotated toward the raised configuration, and a container connector at a trailing end of the lift interface device adapted to be used for releasably connecting the container to the frame when the frame is rotated toward the raised configuration; and an actuation unit to rotate and hold the frame relative to the base at desired orientations between the coupling orientation and the raised orientation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2013
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventor: Fabien Lavoie
  • Publication number: 20150086311
    Abstract: A power lift and transfer system and method are disclosed. In one particular exemplary embodiment, the power lift and transfer system and method may be realized as a power lift and transfer system. The power lift and transfer system may move, stow, and carry a mobility device for a user with a disability, and then assist the person with the disability to transfer in and out of a vehicle. The power lift and transfer system may further transport the wheeled or other mobility device from a position in a rear or on top of the vehicle to passenger or driver areas of the vehicle, and then assist the user by means of a conveyor belt to transfer laterally into the automobile seat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2013
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventor: Thomas F. Egan
  • Patent number: 8956102
    Abstract: The vehicle with wheelchair positioning mechanism includes an automotive vehicle that is modified to assist a disabled person to enter, operate and exit the vehicle. The modification includes a wheelchair lift adjacent the rear of the vehicle. An internal rail system extends from the rear of the vehicle to the front of the vehicle adjacent the vehicle's driving controls. A remotely controlled platform is rotatably mounted on a carriage for movement on the rail system. The platform is adapted to support a wheelchair thereon. The platform can be rotated 360° so that the wheelchair moves forward when entering and exiting the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Inventor: Faisal A. O. Alasfour
  • Patent number: 8905454
    Abstract: A multi-tiered casket handling system is configured to preferably be placed in a vehicle. Because the casket handling system admits to adjustability in its mounting, a wide range of vehicles can be used. Further, because the casket handling system has a system for tilting the rear upper tier and powered movement of caskets, the system is capable of handling greater numbers of caskets than is possible with conventional systems, thereby taking full advantage of larger vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: FYDA Freightliner Cincinnati, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis K. Stock, Chadwick D. Fox
  • Publication number: 20140219757
    Abstract: A number of variations of the invention may include a vehicle having a doorframe gantry lift system for raising and lowering a cargo module in the doorframe. A number of variations of the invention may include a cargo module having at least a first lift structure constructed and arranged to mate with a first lift structure of a vehicle doorframe gantry lift system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Chet R. Wisniewski
  • Publication number: 20140205410
    Abstract: One variation may include a product including a carrier having a doorway constructed and arranged so that a module or second container may be loaded into and out the carrier through the doorway, the carrier being movable, and wherein the carrier is constructed and arranged so that the doorway is in an elevated position, a bracket positioned to receive a module or second container, a lift system connected to the bracket and constructed and arranged to lift the bracket and the module or second container to a position wherein the module or second container may be inserted through the doorway and into a carrier, and to lower the bracket and the module or second container to a position wherein the module or second container is below at least a portion of the doorway and so that the second module or container may be removed from the bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Chet R. Wisniewski
  • Patent number: 8739935
    Abstract: A portable wheel chair lift device includes a lift car, a support base, and a lifting mechanism coupled thereto to selectively raise or lower the lift car while allowing the floor of the lift car to be fully-lowered to the ground surface. The lift car floor can be folded and collapsed to a reduced width allowing transport through narrow passages. Transport casters are removably mounted to the bottom of the lift car to facilitate transport. The lift device includes a height adjustment control within the lift car to repeatably raise the lift car to the height of a stage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: AGM Container Controls, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Zuercher, James T. Coble
  • Patent number: 8657310
    Abstract: The wafer box conveyer includes a chassis, a transverse moving mechanism, a longitudinal moving mechanism, a loading mechanism and a shock reduction mechanism. The chassis includes a frame and a plurality of wheels mounted under the frame. The transverse moving mechanism is movably connected to the frame. The longitudinal moving mechanism is movably connected to the transverse moving mechanism. A moving direction of the longitudinal moving mechanism is perpendicular to that of the transverse moving mechanism. The loading mechanism includes at least one tray for a wafer box. The shock reduction mechanism is disposed between the at least one tray and the frame for absorbing a load of the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Gudeng Precision Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yung-Chin Pan
  • Patent number: 8657554
    Abstract: A combination transport and load handling vehicle that includes a truck having a chassis with a cab mounted to a forward portion of the chassis and a hitch plate mounted toward the rear of the chassis and a forklift assembly pivotally mounted to the chassis intermediate the cab and the hitch plate so that arms of the forklift are movable from a stowed position above the cab to a deployed position extending rearwardly of the chassis when no trailer is connected to the hitch plate. The forklift assembly has a lift frame including a boom pivotally mounted to the chassis and which supports a forklift tower along which the arms of the forklift device are movable adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Inventor: Cory Pritchard
  • Patent number: 8591164
    Abstract: The present combination ladder rack and loader device is designed for use with pickup trucks. This device can function as a typical ladder rack, but also has the ability to lift large and heavy objects both into and out of the truck's bed. In one embodiment, the combination ladder rack and loader device can connect to the pick-up truck primarily through a receiver hitch allowing it to be easily disconnected from the truck when desired. This device can also comprise either a mechanical or an electrical winch to assist in the loading and unloading of large or heavy objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventor: James Prosser
  • Publication number: 20130259616
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for loading and offloading storage containers such as dumpsters onto and from a bed of a transport truck utilizes a mast mounted in upstanding disposition relative to the bed of the truck, and a container lifting and placement assembly configured for grasping engagement with the storage container. The lifting and placement assembly is supported on the mast for selective movement upwardly and downwardly along the mast axis and for selective movement rotationally about the mast axis between a loading position facing away from the bed and a storage position disposed over the bed to facilitate selective positioning and movement of the assembly relative to the mast and the bed for grasping, lifting, moving, lowering and placing a storage container between a ground surface adjacent the truck and the truck bed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas J. Logano
  • Patent number: 8500384
    Abstract: This invention concerns an aircraft cargo loader comprising a deck platform; a front and a rear wheel assembly units; and a scissor assembly extending under the platform for supporting it and move it between an open and close position. The scissor comprises a first and a second elongated arm pivotally connected by a swivel joint. Each of the first and second elongated members have an upper end pivotally attached to the deck platform and a lower end pivotally connected to the rear and front wheel assembly unit respectively. One of the first and second elongated members is articulated and comprising an upper segment pivotally connected to a lower segment. The loader comprises a first controllable actuator to move the scissor assembly between the open and close positions and a second controllable actuator to actuate the upper segment relative to the lower segment so as to tilt the deck platform longitudinally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: TLD (Canada) Inc.
    Inventor: Patrick Quirion
  • Patent number: 8398358
    Abstract: A luggage compartment storage device for moving a heavy item from a low easy access point to a high storage surface. A base frame is rigidly mounted to the high storage surface. A slide is connected to the base frame. A sliding frame is connected to the slide. Rear swing arms and front swing arms are pivotally connected to the sliding frame. A damper is connected between the rear swing arms and the sliding frame. A platform support frame is pivotally connected to the front swing arms and the rear swing arms. A platform is supported by the platform support frame. A pull down handle is pivotally connected to the front swing arms. The position of the pull down handle is lockable. A locking device is used for locking the platform support frame in place when the platform is at the high storage surface. The user manipulates the pull down handle to move the heavy item between the high storage surface and the low easy access point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Inventor: Jerry L'Ecuyer
  • Patent number: 8398356
    Abstract: A wheelchair lift and restraining device for an automotive vehicle includes a base pivotally mounted beneath the main floor of a vehicle. First and second support arm portions extend outwardly from the base and are configured for engagement with a wheelchair frame, preferably a wheel axle. A rotating assembly selectively moves the support arm through approximately 90° of rotation and the system is raised and lowered relative to the vehicle to transport the wheelchair from outside the vehicle to the interior of the vehicle, and also position the wheelchair at a desired height in the vehicle interior. Translation movement of the support arms also positions the wheelchair occupant at a desired location. A headrest extends from the system to provide desired neck and head support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Edouard S. Sandoz
  • 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 “stake holes” 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: 8297904
    Abstract: A container carrier provided with longitudinal extension and retraction capability such that loads may be shifted forward in order to achieve optimal front-to-rear weight distribution on the supporting vehicle. Two hydraulic cylinders having the same rod and bore size are provided in an over and under configuration and act in unison and enable the fork structure to tilt as well as telescopically extend and retract about a mast assembly. The upper cylinder directly controls the angle of the forks while the lower cylinder acts on a mast assembly to extend and retract. A third cylinder is provided for vertically raising and lowering the fork structure so that containers may be picked up from and/or lowered onto elevated surfaces, as well as tilted up and raised toward the truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Stellar Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew Wendell Schroeder
  • Patent number: 8257007
    Abstract: A cargo loader operable to load cargo into an opening of an enclosed trailer. The loader has an elongated bed with a front portion and a rear open portion. The opening of the trailer is positioned adjacent to the rear open portion of the bed. A pair of sidewalls flank the rear open portion and define an interior cargo receiving area. A carriage is moveably mounted to the bed and coupled to a drive assembly operable to move the carriage between the front portion and the rear open portion. The carriage is positioned on the front portion to allow cargo to be loaded into the cargo receiving area. The carriage is configured to push a ram longitudinally along the bed to push the cargo inside the cargo receiving area into the opening of the enclosed trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Container Stuffers, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel S. Williams, Troy D. Williams
  • Patent number: 8113760
    Abstract: A secure loading system operates with a wheelchair lift attached to a vehicle, securing the wheelchair to a platform during the lifting motion and retracting the platform into the vehicle once the wheelchair has been lifted, or performing a reverse operation wherein the platform is extended to the lift for lowering the wheelchair. The secure loading system may be an after-market add-on to a lift, or may be integrated into the lift at design time. The system may also be adapted for many other embodiments wherein a secured platform is needed during a lifting motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventor: Sean Schroll
  • Publication number: 20110255943
    Abstract: A luggage compartment storage device for moving a heavy item from a low easy access point to a high storage surface. A base frame is rigidly mounted to the high storage surface. A slide is connected to the base frame. A sliding frame is connected to the slide. Rear swing arms and front swing arms are pivotally connected to the sliding frame. A damper is connected between the rear swing arms and the sliding frame. A platform support frame is pivotally connected to the front swing arms and the rear swing arms. A platform is supported by the platform support frame. A pull down handle is pivotally connected to the front swing arms. The position of the pull down handle is lockable. A locking device is used for locking the platform support frame in place when the platform is at the high storage surface. The user manipulates the pull down handle to move the heavy item between the high storage surface and the low easy access point.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2010
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventor: Jerry L'Ecuyer
  • Publication number: 20110170996
    Abstract: A universal lift for transporting a load into and out of a vehicle (100) comprises: a) a first tubular member (101) attachable to roof rails (121, 122) on the vehicle (100); b) a second tubular member (102), telescopically movable in and out of the first tubular member (101); c) a carrying arm (106), displaceable along the second tubular member (102); and d) a hinging support (103, 104, 105), telescopically movable in and out of the second tubular member (102).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2009
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Inventor: Gert Albert Louis Vrijens
  • Patent number: 7963734
    Abstract: A handling apparatus is provided that attaches to a three-point hitch of a farm implement/tractor. The apparatus allows for engaging multiple bales in a field while the tractor is driven in a forward direction. The bales are engaged while they are disposed beside the tractor such that they are in view of the operator. Once bales are engaged, the apparatus allows for rotating the bales from a position beside the tractor to a position behind the tractor. This allows, inter alia, the tractor to pass through openings (e.g., gates or doors) while carrying multiple bales.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Inventors: Ernest Robert Bruha, Greggory Thomas Cooper
  • Patent number: 7862287
    Abstract: A multi-motion lifting and transferring apparatus and method are disclosed. The multi-motion lifting and transferring apparatus and method may be realized in primarily two versions, the first being referred to as the single linkage arm version, and the second being referred to as the dual linkage arm version. In one particular exemplary embodiment, a multi-motion lifting and transferring apparatus in accordance with the single linkage arm version may be realized as having a first pivot point for rotating an intermediary support member about a first substantially vertical axis, a second pivot point for rotating an electrically or hydraulically powered up/down extension arm about a second substantially vertical axis, and a seat support member for supporting a seat for accommodating at least one person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Inventor: Thomas F. Egan
  • Patent number: 7810198
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a wheelchair lift apparatus (1) for mounting to a vehicle, e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Huber Transportation GmbH
    Inventors: Christian Sahr, Alexander Heckel
  • Publication number: 20100183412
    Abstract: The powered hand truck has a chassis supported at one end by a single axle with two independently operable drive wheels. A prime mover is provided generally medially on the chassis, driving the drive wheels and powering the forklift mechanism. An operator console extends from the end of the chassis opposite the wheels, with an operator platform extending beyond the base of the operator console. The forklift mechanism has a pantograph arrangement supported by a pivotally mounted column. The forklift mast remains parallel to the column at all times and includes a manually or power actuated upper extension. A storage rack and dolly may be installed upon a suitable transport vehicle for transporting the powered hand truck. The hand truck forks engage the storage rack dolly, with the dolly translating along the rack to allow the truck to be deployed from, or loaded onto, the transport vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2010
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Inventors: Steven Borntrager, James Borntrager
  • Publication number: 20100178144
    Abstract: Loading device using a pendular movement for the displacement of cargo. The loading device consists of a pole (2) and a cable (6), which may be attached to a winch (5). The pole may be telescopic enabling the loading device to obtain different heights.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2008
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Inventor: Martin Vestergaard
  • Patent number: 7756601
    Abstract: A vertical control mechanism for a vertical lift assist device is provided in which a rotational twist grip element is in direct communication with a control signal that generates analog input signals corresponding to an operator's intended vertical destination of an end-effector. A vertical lift mechanism is thereby controlled to provide a vertical assist lifting force that assists an end-effector in the manipulation of a load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: R.P. Gatta, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd Van Dyke, Marc W. Yanko
  • Publication number: 20100054900
    Abstract: The invention relates to a lifting apparatus for use in a transport vehicle to lift a load at a height of a loading space of the vehicle, wherein the lifting apparatus comprises: a guide member provided with rails, wherein a movable displacement unit is mounted, a rack of a rack-and-pinion arrangement provided within the guide section and wherein the rack-and-pinion arrangement engages with the displacement unit, a carrier section that extends along a main axis and wherein said carrier section is connected at its first end to the displacement unit, a positioning surface connected to an opposite end of the carrier section to position a load for lifting a force compensator which exerts a force on the carrier section, essentially in the direction of the longitudinal axis thereof in order to bear at least a portion of the weight load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: HOUTVEEN BEHEER ACHTERVELD B.V.
    Inventors: Timotheus Gregorius Hendrikus HOUTVEEN, Albert KNOL
  • Patent number: 7651313
    Abstract: An electrically-actuated lifting and transferring apparatus designed to facilitate the lifting and transfer process of a disabled person into and out of a vehicle. In a preferred embodiment, an apparatus in accordance with the present invention is realized as having a vertical or semi-vertical electric or hydraulic extension arm, a mounting apparatus, a seat belt interlock system or foldaway safety arm, a support member along a plane having a horizontal component with option to pivot from its end point from a horizontal to a substantially vertical axis, and a seat surface with locking device pivoting about a substantially horizontal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Inventor: Thomas F. Egan
  • Publication number: 20090317220
    Abstract: A hybrid trailer with a built in retractable hydraulic crane to handle different configurations of platform surface bodies. It will raise the platform surface body vertically away from the chassis frame placing the platform surface body in the desired location. Two telescoping arms extend out to lift and retract into a recessed area in the bed of the trailer for storage. It is operated by remote voice control. A solar collector enables operation in remote locations and use of the crane for external lifting operations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2009
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald Lynn Brown
  • Patent number: 7563065
    Abstract: A system for transporting and maintaining a storage container is shown and described. The system comprises a vehicle including a frame capable of receiving a storage container. The system also includes a winch, a container-conveyor, and a lift. The storage container is sized for being removably received by the frame and includes a winch-interface, a container-conveyor-interface, and a lift-interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Inventor: Evron Ray Bennett
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20090016866
    Abstract: A manual wheelchair loader design to lift and place an article, such as a collapsible wheelchair, into the cargo area of a vehicle. The loader includes a base adapted to rest on a substantially flat surface within the vehicle. At least one support arm is connected to the base to hold a carriage. The carriage is adapted to rotate between a first position and a second position. The carriage further has a lower support surface adapted to support the article being loaded when the frame is in a first position. The carriage also has a lateral support surface adapted to support the article being loaded when the carriage is in a second position. A ramp is hingedly connected to lower support surface for wheeling the article thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2007
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Applicant: UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA
    Inventors: David Zaragoza, Pedro Romero, Patrice Waller, Josh Stuart, Michael Perez Cabezas
  • Publication number: 20080317571
    Abstract: A lift apparatus for a motor home or recreational vehicle is provided having a generally vertical slide rail attached to the cabin floor and interior wall adjacent the doorway to the motor home. A trolley is slidably engaged with the slide rail and is configured for vertical movement through the selectively motorized rotation of pulleys about which is engaged a line attached at each end to the trolley. A riser is hingedly connected to the trolley, and a swing arm is hingedly connected to the riser. The distal end of the swing arm is configured to have a chair removably mounted to it.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2007
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventor: Garlin Cheatham, JR.
  • Patent number: 7465144
    Abstract: Provided is a lifting system. The lifting system consists of pulleys mounted to moveable, perpendicular shafts that allow the pulleys to be adjustably positioned in horizontal plane. In this way the pulleys can be properly positioned to lift a variety of loads. The system may be powered either manually or by a motor. Further provided is a lifting system, comprising a track and a lifting carriage movable along said track, said lifting carriage including a pulley, a drive shaft for turning said pulley, a support shaft, and a slide assembly connecting said drive shaft to said support shaft, wherein said slide assembly is movable along said drive shaft and the support shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Inventor: Ronald M. Studer