Carrier Movable To Storage Position Beneath Vehicle Patents (Class 414/558)
  • Patent number: 11358509
    Abstract: An automated cargo vehicle ramp deployment system includes a controller and a power source connected thereto, a ramp located at the existing cargo vehicle, a first automated ramp displacement mechanism for configured to selectively displace the ramp from a first position to a second position defined along a perimeter of the existing cargo vehicle while the ramp is maintained at a vertically oriented position, a second automated ramp displacement mechanism for configured to selectively displace the ramp from one of the first position and the second position to a third position, and a third automated ramp displacement mechanism for selectively adjusting a longitudinal length of the ramp while the ramp is statically disposed at a third position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2022
    Assignee: EMHIP, LLC
    Inventors: Peter Warhurst, Roy Hensler, Robert Perry Allison
  • Patent number: 11345268
    Abstract: An automated cargo vehicle ramp deployment system includes a controller and a power source connected thereto, a ramp located at the existing cargo vehicle, a first automated ramp displacement mechanism for configured to selectively displace the ramp from a first position to a second position defined along a perimeter of the existing cargo vehicle while the ramp is maintained at a vertically oriented position, a second automated ramp displacement mechanism for configured to selectively displace the ramp from one of the first position and the second position to a third position, and a third automated ramp displacement mechanism for selectively adjusting a longitudinal length of the ramp while the ramp is statically disposed at a third position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2022
    Assignee: EMHIP, LLC
    Inventors: Peter Warhurst, Roy Hensler, Robert Perry Allison
  • Patent number: 9238941
    Abstract: A vehicle access system and method with retractable access means (10) e.g. ladder or stairs and a retracting mechanism (25) therefor. Force applied to the access means is sufficient to retract the access means from a fully deployed position to a partially retracted position but not sufficient to not be physically resisted by a user during at least part of the retraction. With the access means in a fully retracted position, force exerted on the retracted access means can be sufficient to hold the access means in a retracted position without the need for auxiliary restraining means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2016
    Assignee: Barjoh Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Nathan John Ellement
  • Patent number: 8992156
    Abstract: A conveyor is arranged to be mounted underneath a hopper bottom highway transportation truck which has two longitudinally spaced dump hoppers each with a bottom discharge opening to carry the discharged material to the side of the trailer from each of the hoppers in turn. The conveyor is thus carried between the bottom discharge openings so that it can be raised up between them during transport. From the mounting point at one side between the openings the conveyor is lowered so that its loading end is lowered and then the conveyor pivots to one side or the other so that its loading end is underneath the selected bottom discharge opening. The conveyor runs in a direction so that it lifts the material from the selected discharge opening upwardly to the mounting point at the one side for discharge to the side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Haukaas Manufacturing Limited
    Inventors: Greg Haukaas, Beric Duane Haukaas, Vincent Colistro
  • Patent number: 8905703
    Abstract: A lift gate assembly for a vehicle that includes a platform assembly with a platform member. The assembly also includes a linkage assembly pivotally connected to the platform member and operably coupled to a vehicle, such that the platform member is pivotally moveable between a storage position and an in-use position. The assembly further includes a pedal opener coupled to the platform member at a location above the first pivot point when the platform member is in the storage position. The pedal opener also has a rearwardly disposed, upwardly facing surface configured to receive a generally downward applied force that assists pivotal movement of the platform member from the storage position to the in-use position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: SAF-Holland, Inc.
    Inventors: Kim Baechler, Timothy Writt, Steve Crosby, Tim Dejonghe
  • Patent number: 8840354
    Abstract: A retractable tow hook assembly is connected with a rectangular storage container having a vertical ramp end wall hingedly connected at its bottom edge with the container for displacement about a horizontal pivot axis from an initial vertical closed position downwardly toward an inclined loading position in engagement with the ground. The tow hook assembly includes a support plate that is externally connected with the container adjacent the hinge connection, and a hook member that is displaceable relative to the support plate between an upwardly extending towing position for engagement by the loop of a towing cable when the ramp wall is in the vertical position, and a non-obstructing downwardly-displaced retracted position when the ramp wall is in the downwardly inclined loading position. A stop arrangement prevents displacement of the tow hook member beyond the extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Weidmueller Interface GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Dennis Wayne Melancon, Jr., Christian A. Meyer
  • Patent number: 8821103
    Abstract: A lifting system for lifting and lower people between a vehicle door and ground level uses a carriage that is slid underneath and out from the undercarriage of the vehicle. A lift platform is flush with the carriage when stowed and is capable of being raised from this position up to the door and lowered down to the ground. A series of housing are located on the underside of the carriage and have a sprocket gear thereon. Extension arms are attached to each gear and rotatably to a lift platform. Rack gears mesh with the sprocket gears for rotating the arms and thus the platform up and down, the rack gears articulated via one or more hydraulic drives, with rotation of the arms resulting in articulation of the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Inventor: Dan A. Matthews
  • Patent number: 8382420
    Abstract: A cart stop suitable for use with a lift platform is described. The cart stop has a closed position which allows a cart or other wheeled device to move over it. The cart stop also has an open position which prevents the cart or other wheeled device from rolling off of the lift platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Maxon Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Karapet Ablabutyan, Aida Sahakyan
  • Publication number: 20130004276
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and system of installing a liftgate under a vehicle bed. In one implementation, the system includes a liftgate and a mounting device. The mounting device comprises at least one mounting bracket having a group of multiple substantially horizontal slots vertically stacked relative to one another so as to be at different heights relative to ground when the bracket is installed under a vehicle bed essentially parallel to ground. The slots are vertically spaced on the bracket relative to one another to accommodate different vehicle bed heights so as to maintain the liftgate within a desired vertical ground clearance when mounted in a slot on said bracket under a vehicle bed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: RS Drawings, LLC
    Inventor: Paul Bark
  • Patent number: 8282335
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and system of installing a liftgate under a vehicle bed. In one implementation, the system includes a liftgate and a mounting device. The mounting device comprises at least one mounting bracket having a group of multiple substantially horizontal slots vertically stacked relative to one another so as to be at different heights relative to ground when the bracket is installed under a vehicle bed essentially parallel to ground. The slots are vertically spaced on the bracket relative to one another to accommodate different vehicle bed heights so as to maintain the liftgate within a desired vertical ground clearance when mounted in a slot on said bracket under a vehicle bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: RS Drawings, LLC
    Inventor: Paul Bark
  • Publication number: 20110229294
    Abstract: An integral lift assembly incorporated into a storage compartment under the patient compartment of an emergency vehicle. The integral lift assembly is stored in the storage compartment until a patient is loaded onto the emergency vehicle. During the loading process, the integral lift assembly extends, under power, from the storage compartment, and is lowered to the ground to allow a stretcher or gurney to be rolled onto it. A lift arm raises the structure or gurney, under power, and automatically aligns it with the floor of the patient compartment. The stretcher or gurney is then rolled into the patient compartment. The lift arm then rotates to a storage position and is retracted to a storage compartment underneath the patient compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2011
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Inventor: Mark Gale
  • Patent number: 7963739
    Abstract: A lift having a platform with a substantially level ride is described. The lift also reduces the distance between the ground and the platform in the ground position. An extension plate having receiving portions for accommodating portions of the lift when the platform is in a bed level position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Maxon Lift Corporation
    Inventors: Karapet Ablabutyan, Akop Gasparian
  • Patent number: 7819619
    Abstract: A retractable ramp system mounts a slideable ramp between lateral rail members which extend the length of a truck chassis and a container mounted thereon. The ramp is slideably suspended from a guide rail running parallel to the lateral rail members by means of a carriage component, itself slideably mounted within the guide rail. It is readily and easily extended and retracted by one person. When positioned directly on a truck chassis, the rail system is located above the hydraulic, electrical, and other mechanical systems positioned within the well of the truck chassis, such that the ramp is slideably moveable over these system components without interfering with them or any other part of the truck chassis. The ramp system is conveniently used for loading and off-loading containers which rest on the truck chassis or which are elevated above the chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Inventors: Rustin Arthur Cassway, Francis Joseph Fisher, David John Fisher, Albert Stephen Perry
  • Patent number: 7762756
    Abstract: The invention provides a moveable underride system that may be used with lifts such as stow lifts. The underride system includes an underride member and a linkage mechanism for coupling the underride member to a support frame, wherein the linkage mechanism moves the underride member between an extended position and a retracted position. In the extended position the underride member is at a first distance from the frame, and in the retracted position the underride is at a second distance from the frame, such that the first distance (for the extended position) is larger than the second distance (for the retracted position).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: Maxon Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Karapet Ablabutyan, Akop Gasparian
  • Patent number: 7367770
    Abstract: A retractable tail-lift for a vehicle comprises a lifting mechanism (30) for lifting and lowering a platform (50), and guiding rails (21) in which the lifting mechanism (30) with one vertical carriage (32) each is suspended and can be slidably displaced between a working position located behind the vehicle and a travelling position located below the vehicle, wherein each carriage (32) has a front guiding element (40a) with an upper sliding member (42a) and rear guiding element (40b) with a lower sliding member (42b). The front guiding element (40a) is attached from above onto the carriage (32) and is arrested on the carriage (32) at right angles to the direction of attachment, and the rear guiding element (40b) is attached from below onto the carriage (32) in an opening (32.3) of the carriage (32) and is arrested on the carriage (32) at right angles to the direction of attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Inventor: Gerd Bär
  • Patent number: 6948903
    Abstract: The invention is a unitary cantilever liftgate that attaches to the vehicle body instead of the vehicle chassis. The liftgate may be fully assembled and tested prior to installation on the vehicle body. This greatly reduces installation time while improving performance and reliability. Various features such as steps, bumpers and brackets are integrated into the liftgate. Further, the liftgate is preferably configured so that multiple units can be stacked together for shipping and ease of unloading and loading. The stackability of the liftgates simplifies storing as well, by removing the necessity of storing several components separately.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignee: Maxon Lift Corporation
    Inventors: Karapet Ablabutyan, Paul Bark
  • Patent number: 6846150
    Abstract: A trailer hitch assembly adapted for use with a foldable liftgate assembly on a truck. The trailer hitch assembly is able to be pivoted out of the way of the liftgate assembly as the liftgate is deployed from a stowed position beneath the truck chassis. The liftgate assembly may include a foldable platform including a main platform member and a platform extension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: Waltco Truck Equipment Co.
    Inventor: Wayne L. Krause
  • Patent number: 6739825
    Abstract: An underfloor lift assembly (1) includes a saddle member (3) fully mounted in an underfloor cavity (3a) and adapted slidably to receive a stowage box (4). The stowage box (4) provides a further location for a lifting mechanism (5), in a stowed condition. In use, the lifting mechanism (5) is extended in a telescopic manner from the stowage box (4). Concomitantly, the stowage box (4) is extended in a telescopic manner from the saddle member (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: Passenger Lift Services Limited
    Inventors: Adam Beck, Alan James Ford
  • Patent number: 6688835
    Abstract: A combination trailer and ramp assembly (20) is provided. The combination trailer and ramp assembly includes a trailer (24) having a floor assembly (30) including an upper surface, a lower surface, and a length. The trailer further includes first and second sidewalls (32) extending from the floor assembly, and a side door (34) located in at least one of the first and second sidewalls. The combination trailer and ramp assembly further includes a ramp assembly (26) slidably disposed on the lower surface of the trailer for reciprocating movements between a stowed position, where the ramp assembly is stowed underneath the floor assembly, and a deployed position, where the ramp assembly extends along an axis substantially parallel to the length of the floor assembly to permit access to the side door of the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventor: Robert Buher
  • Publication number: 20040013507
    Abstract: An access system for passenger boarding of a vehicle is provided. The access system includes a frame mounted to the vehicle. A ramp is movably mounted in the frame. The ramp is movable with respect to the frame between a stowed position and a deployed position with respect to the vehicle. The ramp includes side barriers extending therealong between an inboard end and an outboard end of the ramp. The side barriers are movable between a stowed orientation and a raised safety barrier orientation by an actuator. The vehicular access system includes a frame positioned below the floor level of a vehicle to which a carriage is moveably mounted. The ramp or transfer member is attached to the carriage by a pivoting rocker assembly. A drive assembly deploys and stows the ramp from the frame. An actuator is moveable between a raised safety barrier orientation and a stowed low-profile orientation with a side barrier that is pivotably mounted and spring biased toward the stowed low-profile orientation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: Aaron Kiser
  • Publication number: 20040009056
    Abstract: A lift gate used for vehicles such as a truck. The lift gate has a platform which is pivotally mounted to what constitutes a vertical link at the rear end of a parallelogram linkage. In the stored position, the platform is folded to overlie the parallelogram linkage. The bottom of the platform is provided with a pair of surfaces that provide the appearance of a bumper when the lift gate is in the stored position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2002
    Publication date: January 15, 2004
    Inventor: William E. Kreutinger
  • Publication number: 20030170106
    Abstract: A trailer hitch assembly adapted for use with a foldable liftgate assembly on a truck. The trailer hitch assembly is able to be pivoted out of the way of the liftgate assembly as the liftgate is deployed from a stowed position beneath the truck chassis. The liftgate assembly may include a foldable platform including a main platform member and a platform extension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2003
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Inventor: Wayne L. Krause
  • Patent number: 6589006
    Abstract: A trailer hitch assembly adapted for use with a foldable liftgate assembly on a truck. The trailer hitch assembly is able to be pivoted out of the way of the liftgate assembly as the liftgate is deployed from a stowed position beneath the truck chassis. The liftgate assembly may include a foldable platform including a main platform member and a platform extension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Waltco Truck Equipment Co.
    Inventor: Wayne L. Krause
  • Patent number: 6558106
    Abstract: Lifting device (1) for disabled people in wheelchairs and children's pushchairs, comprising a supporting frame (2), permanently applied to a motor vehicle or a fixed installation, and a sliding foldaway platform (3) moving between a retracted position and an extracted position, with respect to said supporting frame (2). The platform (3) can also move in said extracted position, between a lowered position and a raised position, by means of an articulated parallelogram linkage system (17). The movements of the platform (3) are achieved by means of electrical actuators (9, 20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Rollon S.p.A.
    Inventor: Gennaro Sardonico
  • Publication number: 20030053895
    Abstract: A mounting system for mounting a container handling device on a refuse gathering vehicle accomplishes the mounting in a manner which enables translation of the device between deployed and stowed positions so that the container handling device is protected and out of the way when not in use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Applicant: McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Tracy L. Schrafel
  • Patent number: 6398479
    Abstract: A wheelchair lifting platform for transporting a wheelchair passenger into and out of the rear door of a vehicle such as a van. The platform may be folded and stowed beneath the floor of the van behind the rear axle. The platform further includes rollstops pivotally coupled to the ends of the platform and adapted to automatically deploy when the platform is unfolded. A pivoting housing cover is also included that is adapted to open upon deployment of the platform and close upon stowage of the platform in its housing beneath the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: The Braun Corporation
    Inventors: James R. Dupuy, Fred William Malchow
  • Publication number: 20010048872
    Abstract: Lifting device (1) for disabled people in wheelchairs and children's pushchairs, comprising a supporting frame (2), permanently applied to a motor vehicle or a fixed installation, and a sliding foldaway platform (3) moving between a retracted position and an extracted position, with respect to said supporting frame (2). The platform (3) can also move in said extracted position, between a lowered position and a raised position, by means of an articulated parallelogram linkage system (17). The movements of the platform (3) are achieved by means of electrical actuators (9, 20).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Publication date: December 6, 2001
    Applicant: ROLLON S.p.A.
    Inventor: Gennaro Sardonico
  • Patent number: 6299403
    Abstract: A spare tire carrier having a housing fixed to the automobile body, a roller assembly rotatably mounted at a rotary shaft of the housing and constructed with a plurality of closely-adhered roller plates to allow a wire to wind and unwind therebetween, and a gear plate fixed to one side of the roller assembly and formed with a first gear having a predetermined length of diameter, the carrier comprising: a plurality of split-constructed contact gears respectively meshed to a part of the first gear; an eccentric cam formed at the rotary shaft; and a resilient member mounted between the eccentric cam and the plurality of contact gears to apply a pressure to the plurality of contact gears towards the first gear, such that the wire is prevented from being squeezed in a gap of the roller assembly and the carrier is prevented from being inoperable, while the carrier swiftly operates to prevent the first and second gears from being broken down when an excessive force is applied and strength of an accommodation plate w
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Ok-Seok Lee
  • Patent number: 6244608
    Abstract: A movable subframe or slider for a semi-trailer is modified to provide a storage bay between the slider and semi-trailer for accommodating a walk ramp and its carrier hardware. A reinforced elongated spacer cap is mounted on the uppermost surface of each main member and associated cross members of the slider. The spaced-apart parallel caps provide sufficient clearance between the bottom surface of the trailer body and the uppermost surface of the slider cross members, for mounting a walk ramp and its carrier hardware on the underside of the trailer body. The pins and coil springs of the retractable locking pin mechanism of the slider are relocated upwardly into the spacers. Rail guides and low frictions strips also are relocated from the slider main members to the spacer caps. This relocation enables the modified slider to be mounted on standard body rails of a semi-trailer, which are mounted on and depend from the underside of the trailer body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Assignee: The Boler Company.
    Inventor: Timothy V. Hess
  • Patent number: 6190112
    Abstract: A lifting device that can be installed in the frame of a motor vehicle is disclosed. A portion of the frame is removed to accommodate the lifting device and the motor vehicle has a subframe attached under the existing frame across the location where the lifting device is installed to structurally support the motor vehicle. In order to fit within the space provided by removal of a portion of the frame, and provide clearance for the van underneath, the lifting device has a movable frame and a platform having a telescoping movable portion. A single driving unit is used to move the telescoping portion out from the stationary portion of the platform and then extend the movable frame from a stored configuration to an extended configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: 1244754 Ontario Ltd.
    Inventor: Zoran Danilovic
  • Patent number: 6183187
    Abstract: A integrated lift gate and hitch system, configured to be secured to a vehicle chassis, includes two support brackets, a cross brace extending between and secured to the support brackets, and a tow hitch secured to the cross brace. The cross brace and tow hitch are positioned such that the tow Lite L is recessed no more than six inches from the rearmost extremity of either the vehicle chassis or the lift gate when the latter is stowed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Assignee: Maxon Lift Corporation
    Inventor: Karapet Ablabutyan
  • Patent number: 6179546
    Abstract: The present invention provides a robust, highly stable and vertically compact when folded-up wheelchair lift suitable for placement on a variety of vehicles such as vans and mini-vans. The lift has an elongate horizontal support member that is pivotally attached to a post fixed to the undercarriage of a vehicle. The horizontal support member supports the lifting mechanism and the wheelchair platform and is powered to swing the platform and lifting mechanism between a use position and a storage position. The lifting mechanism uses a pair of connecting links spaced lengthwise on the support member and connecting to the wheelchair platform in a four bar linkage arrangement generally in the form of a parallelogram. Both connecting links are rotated by bell cranks both of which are powered by the same hydraulic cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: RC Sales and Manufacturing
    Inventor: Richard J. Citrowske
  • Patent number: 6102648
    Abstract: A vehicle lift for use in conjunction with a vehicle to facilitate passengers boarding and leaving the vehicle. The vehicle lift has an improved driving mechanism for moving a platform between a stowed position to a deployed position. The driving mechanism includes a bidirectional motor which is mechanically coupled to a gear box which in turn is coupled to a pinion that is connected to a main sprocket. A longitudinal bracket is affixed to the underside of a top panel of the mounting enclosure and is located parallel to a longitudinal guide bar. At both ends of the longitudinal bracket are sprockets which are coupled by a loop chain. Accordingly, engaging the main sprocket with the loop chain moves the traveling assembly inward or outward with respect to the vehicle. The chain is immobilized by a manual spring biased locking mechanism to prevent the chain from moving linearly along the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: Ricon Corporation
    Inventors: Percy Fretwell, Dante Vincent DeLeo
  • Patent number: 6089817
    Abstract: A wheelchair lift having a single piston and cylinder mechanism for both raising and lowering the wheelchair lift and for pushing the wheelchair lift out to an operating configuration from underneath the vehicle and pulling the wheelchair lift back to a storage configuration underneath the vehicle. The wheelchair lift includes a lift mechanism having a first arm hingedly engaged to a wheelchair platform and a second arm hingedly engaged to a base. The single piston and cylinder mechanism draws these first and second arms up and down into operating and storage positions. A third arm is pivotally engaged between the first and second arms and a fourth arm is pivotally engaged between the platform and the base. The third and fourth arms swing parallel to each other to raise and lower the platform. The lift further includes a lock for locking the platform to the base for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Inventor: Kenneth Tauer
  • Patent number: 6062805
    Abstract: A vehicular wheelchair step lift for persons who are physically challenged or otherwise have limited mobility. The lift includes a platform structure which is mounted to an elevator frame which is then mounted to an elevator housing for vertical movements of the platform structure. The platform structure includes a plurality of individual plates which are rotatably connected at their transverse adjacent edges for manually folding and unfolding the platform, wherein the individual plates are manually folded from an outermost individual plate against an adjacent individual plate to an innermost individual plate for stowing the platform structure into a step position of the vehicle and manually unfolded inversely such that the individual plates are substantially horizontal and in fully coplanar alignment to each other for use in an entry level position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: Ricon Corporation
    Inventors: Jules Tremblay, Raymond Arnold Reynolds
  • Patent number: 5853150
    Abstract: A system for conversion of existing boarding bridges which are adapted for large aircraft for additional and/or alternating use with small aircraft. The invention is useful for allowing passengers to enplane and deplane between an airport terminal and either type of aircraft without leaving a protected environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1998
    Assignee: Flight-X Products Corporation
    Inventor: Gary W. Kuchenbrod
  • Patent number: 5725348
    Abstract: The present invention provides a dumpster and a lifting arm for lifting the dumpster and dumping the contents of the dumpster into a storage box. The dumpster includes an open top and is for storing garbage or some other material and is supported on the ground. The articulated lifting arm is usually mounted beneath a vehicle or other transportation apparatus having an open topped storage box. The articulated lifting arm is arranged for lifting the dumpster from the supporting surface to a position above the storage box for dumping any material stored in the dumpster into the storage box. The articulated lifting arm comprises hydraulic devices, a base member, and arm member, first positioning means, an attachment member, lifting devices, and dumping.backslash.positioning devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Inventor: William K. Drake
  • Patent number: 5556250
    Abstract: A vehicle lift, as for wheelchairs, incorporates a horizontally disposed load platform pivotally affixed to a laterally spaced-apart parallelogram elevating frame which is in turn pivotally affixed to a carriage, allowing a composite travelling assembly (platform, elevating frame and carriage) to be stowed in a mounting enclosure. A hydraulic ram actuates the parallelogram elevating frame mechanisms to position the platform at different terminal positions. At the stowing level, a pair of laterally spaced-apart rack-and-pinion mechanisms actuate the aligned platform, elevating frame and carriage inboard, on laterally opposed guide rails to be stowed in a mounting enclosure. A roll stop mechanism is affixed to the outboard end of the platform and is automatically actuated to move from a ramp position at ground level to a vertical safety stop position when the platform is elevated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1996
    Assignee: Ricon Corporation
    Inventors: Percy Fretwell, Stanton D. Saucier, Bernard G. Doucet
  • Patent number: 5257894
    Abstract: A stowable loading ramp assembly for small vehicles, such as pickup trucks, vans and trailers, which includes a stowing chamber and an extendable loading ramp. The assembly is installable in a truck bed, or the like, with the stowed loading ramp access positioned toward the rear or tail gate of the vehicle. The loading ramp is locked in the stowed position by a floating locking plate, which is raised to permit the loading ramp to be withdrawn from the stowing chamber. The floating locking plate rides on a wheel on the top surface of the loading ramp until the ramp is fully withdrawn and, at that point, the wheel drops from the top surface loading ramp, locking the ramp in position. The floating locking plate also serves as a transition surface between the loading ramp and the top surface of the stowing chamber. Additionally, the loading ramp has attached thereto support legs, which provide support during the loading operation and, table legs which position the ramp at a height to be used as a table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1993
    Inventor: Howard K. Grant
  • Patent number: 5253973
    Abstract: A lift for attachment to a vehicle for moving mobility-impaired passengers between lowered and raised positions for entry and exit. A platform (27) is affixed to an unequal modified parallelogram structure (20), the combination being supported on movable rails (40,41) and carried by rollers (90, 91) for movement by an electric motor (52) between extended and retracted positions in relation to the vehicle. The rails (89) may define a curved portion (89b) to change orientation of the platform combination for storage to an inclined position. The unequal modified parallelogram structure (20) is actuated by a hydraulic ram (34) acting through pivot plates (17, 18) on a common transverse axis (34a) with the upper members of the parallelogram structure (20) to raise and lower the platform (27) so as to incline slightly downward when raised and slightly upward when lowered. The platform may be sectioned with a pivoted part affording a step for the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1993
    Assignee: Ricon UK Limited
    Inventor: Percy Fretwell
  • Patent number: 5122026
    Abstract: A cargo platform system particularly structured for use with, e.g., a truck body's cargo opening. The system includes a mast asembly with a mast guide and a mast movably supported by the guide, the mast assembly being fixed to one vertical side edge of the cargo opening. A cargo platform is pivotally connected to the mast, the platform being swingable relative to the mast between a horizontal elevator position and a vertical storage position. A latch system partially carried by the mast guide and partially carried by the mast allows the mast and mast guide to be latched together so that substantially no relative movement therebetween is possible in a first latched position when the platform is in its storage position and located entirely below the truck body's cargo floor and also in a second latch position when the platform is in the storage position and located substantially above the cargo floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1992
    Assignee: Leyman Manufacturing Corp.
    Inventor: Douglas H. Kent
  • Patent number: 5007794
    Abstract: A load-carrying attachment for a vehicle to unload cargo from or load cargo onto the vehicle. The attachment includes a pair of spaced horizontal support beam assemblies having first and second ends. A cross beam connects the first ends of the beam assemblies to form a fixed frame with the beam assemblies. The cross beam is attachable to the vehicle such that the assembly is movable along the periphery of the vehicle. The attachment includes a pair of leg members, one of the leg members being attached to one of the support beam assemblies. The leg members include hydraulic cylinders for raising and lowering the support beam assemblies and wheel assemblies which can be employed as wheels when moving the attachment or as bases when the attachment is being employed to load or unload cargo. The attachment further includes a mast which is slidably attached to the beam assemblies such that it is movable along the beam assemblies. The mast is positioned between the beam assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1991
    Assignee: Luis A. Figueroa
    Inventor: Jose O. Lombard
  • Patent number: 4978271
    Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicular apparatus for use in handling recycleable material which includes a pair of end-to-end first containers supported on each side of the vehicle and each having a side opening into which such material may be loaded at a place of connection, and a pair of second and larger containers supported on the vehicle above and intermediate the pairs of first containers and each having a top opening to receive material from a first container. Each pair of first containers are adapted to be moved together between their loading positions and unloading positions in which the side opening in each is arranged to dump material therefrom into the top opening in a second container, and each of the second containers is adapted to be moved independently of the other between its loading position and an unloading position in which its top opening is arranged to dump material therefrom onto a place of disposal at the side of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 18, 1990
    Assignee: Western Disposal, Inc.
    Inventor: Jack G. Seader
  • Patent number: 4958979
    Abstract: Arrangement for a lift adapted to a motor vehicle, comprising a lifting platform capable of moving between the vehicle and a floor. The invention provides a simple device for achieving a reliable and efficient lift arrangement, for example, for use by individuals in wheelchairs who wish to move between the inside and the outside of a vehicle without the help of an assistant, and without additional ramp or lift arrangements. The platform is attached via a scissor mechanism to a source of power for the platform, so that the platform, upon actuation of the power source, moves between a lower and an upper position, one of which at least is situated at a different level with respect to that of the attachment of the scissor mechanism to the source of power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 25, 1990
    Inventor: Ingemar Svensson
  • Patent number: 4909700
    Abstract: The lift is installed under the cargo floor proximate to the side door of the van. In the retracted position it is entirely concealed and does not obstruct the normal van usage. Stationary track members are attached to the van. Slidably mounted within the track members are frame members which may be extended or retracted from the van by use of a pair of worm gears. A pair of hydraulic cylinders interconnect the platform and the frame using four links which raise and lower the platform equalangularly. The equalangular motion of the links maintains the platform in a substantially horizontal position as it is lowered from its raised position level with the floor of the van to its lower position with the street or sidewalk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 20, 1990
    Assignee: Invercan, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce E. Fontecchio, Adolf Spiegelhalter
  • Patent number: 4836736
    Abstract: A main frame pivotally supports the forward ends of a laterally spaced apart pair of parallelogram linkage systems. Each linkage system comprises an upper link and a two section lower link, rear ends of which are pivotally interconnected to a rear shackle, the lower end of which has a ground engageable roller. A load platform is pivotally connected along its forward edge to the rear ends of the upper links. The rear sections of the lower links are rigidly interconnected by a lift frame that is fitted at its opposite ends with upstanding crank members. A hydraulic piston cylinder mechanism is mounted adjacent each linkage system with its butt end pivotally connected to the main frame and the piston rod of each cylinder is pivotally connected to one of the upstanding crank members. The forward and rear sections of each lower link are pivotally interconnected by a knuckle pin and each lower link includes stops to bidirectionally limit relative angular displacement of the two sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1989
    Assignee: Maxon Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Alexandru Neagu
  • Patent number: 4763487
    Abstract: A refrigerated mobile cargo container having side and rear platforms for loading and unloading cargo and hydraulic control valves for regulating the raising and lowering of the platforms. Fluid to the control valves can be supplied from either a primary pump system powered by the refrigeration unit prime mover or by a secondary pump system powered by a twelve volt power supply. Each pump system has its own fluid reservoir. Check valves are provided which prevent the fluid from one pump system from being passed into the other pump system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1988
    Assignee: Ralph W. Earl Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert G. Wicks
  • Patent number: 4741658
    Abstract: A lifter for emptying a container into a cavity of a vehicle. The lifter has a first plate pivotally connected to the vehicle, and a second plate extending at an angle from the first plate. The lifter has a third plate slidably mounted on the second plate, with the third plate having a pair of hooks to grasp bars on the container. The lifter moves between a first lower position beneath the truck to a second upper position with the container located above the cavity to empty the container into the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1986
    Date of Patent: May 3, 1988
    Assignee: Perkins Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Robert F. Zelinka, John W. Redding
  • Patent number: 4722651
    Abstract: A device for attachment to the rear of a pickup truck as a replacement for the rear bumper includes a transverse frame member which is pivotally mounted on brackets carried on the chassis. The frame member carries a pair of arms each of which is pivoted at an outer end of the frame member and extends across the frame member in a folded position with an outer stub portion extending outwardly and around the end of the frame member to define ends of the bumper. Hydraulic rams can pivot the frame member about a horizontal axis and can pivot the arms about vertical axes at the outer ends of the frame member. Flanges extending from the rear face of the frame member confine and receive the arms and define a compartment for a hitch pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1987
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1988
    Inventor: Dean L. Antal
  • Patent number: 4711613
    Abstract: A vehicle lift device comprises structure 23 which is fixed to the chassis beneath the vehicle floor 11, a parallel linkage 21 carrying a platform 50 and connected to the structure 23 for movement at a level beneath floor 11 about vertical axis 22 so that the linkage and platform can be moved between an operative position extending from the vehicle and a stowed position beneath the vehicle floor 11. A single ram 40 can move the linkage up and down for raising and lowering a load, for example a wheel-chair, to permit the load to be moved on to the floor through a doorway which is not obstructed by the lift device. The platform can be collapsed for storage and the linkage has nesting members 35a, 37 for resisting possible injury.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1984
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1987
    Assignee: Henderson Doors Limited
    Inventor: Percy Fretwell