Mounted For Relative Motion Patents (Class 182/131)
  • Patent number: 10267122
    Abstract: A mobile well service unit has: a structural frame such as a chassis with ground engaging members; and a telescoping platform assembly mounted at a rear end of the structural frame, the telescoping platform assembly having a lower platform mounted to slide up and down relative to the structural frame, and an upper platform mounted to the lower platform to slide up and down relative to the lower platform. A mobile well service unit has: a structural frame with ground engaging members; a platform mounted at a rear end of the structural frame to slide up and down relative to the structural frame; and a set of telescoping and self-levelling stairs with an upper end pivotally anchored to the platform, and a lower end pivotally anchored to the structural frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2019
    Inventor: Adam Toma
  • Patent number: 9555966
    Abstract: A control apparatus controls a circulating conveyor having areas each of which stores one of articles. A storage stores inventory information indicating a state of storage of each of the articles. A computer executes a program to perform a controlling process of controlling the conveyor. The controlling process includes a receiving process of receiving an instruction of storing or carrying out an article, a computing process of computing, in response to reception of the instruction by the receiving process, an amount of travel of the conveyor based on the inventory information, the amount of travel being necessary to move one of the areas of the conveyor to a predetermined position at which one of the articles is stored in or carried out of the one of the areas, and a first controlling process of controlling an operation of the conveyor in accordance with the computed amount of travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd.
    Inventor: Takeshi Ejima
  • Patent number: 8985274
    Abstract: A mobile platform has a separate and independent linear actuator pivotally connected near each opposite end of the platform where there is a contact limit switch that when triggered by contact with the side of a flatbed, stops movement of the actuator, and thus stops movement of the platform, toward the side of the flatbed. Because each of the two actuators is pivotally connected to its respective end of the platform and moves independently of the other, each end of the platform can stop moving toward the flatbed before or after, depending on how the flatbed is misaligned, the other end of the platform stops moving toward the flatbed. In this way the platform self-aligns to the alignment of the flatbed and avoids the need to reposition a flatbed that is not precisely aligned parallel to the central axis of the loading bay.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Sam Carbis Asset Management, LLC
    Inventors: Kaiwen Sun, Ray Cook, Mark Anthony Perkins, James Thomas Mays
  • Publication number: 20150060203
    Abstract: An automatic scaffold provides one to reach high building in rocesses such as construction, repair, dyeing, coating and maintenance The scaffold includes a scaffold module having multiple superimpose layers, moving columns providing it to be opened by means of a drive unit so as to generate a working distance between the said module layers, vertical and horizontal profiles located between each module layers within the working distance, and guide elements located on the carrier plates and providing the vertical carrier profiles to be fixed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2013
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventor: Abdurrahman Murat Fenerci
  • Patent number: 8800717
    Abstract: Mobile scaffolding units include a vehicle for movement across ground surface, a stationary platform rigidly fixed to the vehicle at a predetermined immovable height above the ground surface, and a gantry platform operatively connected to the stationary platform for movements between a retracted position where the gantry platform is nested adjacent to the stationary platform, and an extended position wherein the gantry platform extends laterally outwardly from one or another lateral side of the stationary platform to provide an operator on the gantry platform an extended horizontal reach laterally of the vehicle. The mobile scaffolding units allow an operator to work at elevated heights and with lateral reach in one area of a work zone (e.g., to trim roadside vegetation) and then move to another area of the work zone without requiring an operator to dismount from the gantry platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: General Tree Corporation
    Inventors: Henry K. Berry, Jr., Henry K. Berry, III
  • Publication number: 20140021708
    Abstract: A scaffold includes a central platform with a top surface defining a central area, a bottom, a first lateral side, a second lateral side, and a front side. The scaffold also includes a plurality of supports connected to and supporting the platform and at least one extendible platform connected adjacent to the central platform. The extendible platform has a top surface defining an extendible area. The extendible platform is adjustable between an opened position and a closed position, the opened position presenting the extendible area for use, the closed position stowing the extendible area from use. A vehicle incorporating the scaffold, and methods of use of the same, also are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2013
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Inventors: Henry Kistler BERRY, JR., Henry Kistler BERRY, III
  • Patent number: 8561239
    Abstract: An articulating cage configured to raise and lower with respect to a fixed structure. The articulating cage comprises support structures affixed to the fixed structure and that include one or more springs. The articulating cage includes lifting arms that are pivotally connected to the support structures at one end and to a cage portion at the other end. A load chain connects to the springs at one end and to the lifting arm at the other near to the location where the lifting arm connects to the cage portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Safe Rack LLC
    Inventors: Robert W. Honeycutt, Charles F. Harmon, James P. Daniel
  • Patent number: 8403109
    Abstract: An apparatus for providing safe access to a top of a mobile container. The mobile container has a top, a longitudinal dimension, and a plurality of hatches arrayed along the longitudinal dimension on the top. The apparatus has a raised platform and an extended cage attached to the raised platform wherein the extended cage extends along the longitudinal dimension. A tracking gate, attached to the extended cage, is adapted to vary an effective interior size of the extended cage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Aluminum Ladder Company
    Inventor: Ronald W. Bennett
  • Publication number: 20120298450
    Abstract: A method and apparatus that consists of a Retractable Child Vanity Step. The object of this invention is designed to fit inside of a bathroom vanity lower floor compartment. A child or a short person can easily pull the Retractable Child Vanity Step, step on it to allow his or her to reach the sink faucets, soap or any other articles on the surface of the sink. When finished and stepped down on the floor, the Retractable Child Vanity Step can be pushed back into the vanity out of the way. The design allows for a very easy installation into the vanity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2011
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Inventor: ANGEL SANZ
  • Patent number: 8272479
    Abstract: A tree stand having one or two C-shaped platform sections removably and supportably positionable on one or two mounting brackets, with each platform section being foldable in half for ease of transport and storage, and including a hinged portion for enabling access to the stand from below.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Inventor: Daniel Lee Leach
  • Publication number: 20120025507
    Abstract: A scaffold includes a central platform with a top surface defining a central area, a bottom, a first lateral side, a second lateral side, and a front side. The scaffold also includes a plurality of supports connected to and supporting the platform and at least one extendible platform connected adjacent to the central platform. The extendible platform has a top surface defining an extendible area. The extendible platform is adjustable between an opened position and a closed position, the opened position presenting the extendible area for use, the closed position stowing the extendible area from use. A vehicle incorporating the scaffold, and methods of use of the same, also are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2011
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Inventors: Henry Kistler Berry, JR., Henry Kistler Berry, III
  • Publication number: 20120024629
    Abstract: Mobile scaffolding units include a vehicle for movement across ground surface, a stationary platform rigidly fixed to the vehicle at a predetermined immovable height above the ground surface, and a gantry platform operatively connected to the stationary platform for movements between a retracted position where the gantry platform is nested adjacent to the stationary platform, and an extended position wherein the gantry platform extends laterally outwardly from one or another lateral side of the stationary platform to provide an operator on the gantry platform an extended horizontal reach laterally of the vehicle. The mobile scaffolding units allow an operator to work at elevated heights and with lateral reach in one area of a work zone (e.g., to trim roadside vegetation) and then move to another area of the work zone without requiring an operator to dismount from the gantry platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2011
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Inventors: HENRY K. BERRY, JR., HENRY K. BERRY, III
  • Patent number: 8100227
    Abstract: A portable worker safety frame provides many of the benefits of a loading dock while enhancing worker safety. In one implementation, the safety frame provides a walking surface of adjustable height that may be placed adjacent to an arbitrary work surface of a transportation vehicle. The safety frame can provide a walking platform that has a similar length as the cargo bed itself, yet is portable by such conventional means as the forks of a lift truck. The portable worker safety frame also provides an overhead safety rail to which each worker may attach a safety harness cord.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Jim-N-I, Inc.
    Inventor: Patrick Southworth
  • Patent number: 8051951
    Abstract: An apparatus for providing access to vehicles and containers on a pair of railways or thoroughfares. The apparatus is comprised of a raised walkway between the pair of thoroughfares having a tracking platform movable thereon. Pivotally attached to and carried by the tracking platform is a turret. Carried on the turret and hinged thereto is a bridge that is rotatable in a vertical plane. At the end of the bridge is a cage pivotally attached to the bridge so that the cage remains horizontal when the bridge is rotated vertically on the turret. The bridge and cage are dimensioned so that, when the turret is rotated such that the bridge is directed between and parallel to the thoroughfares and the bridge and cage are raised, the apparatus is entirely out of the clearance envelopes of the thoroughfares.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Aluminum Ladder Company
    Inventors: Ronald W. Bennett, Ellie H. MacDonald
  • Publication number: 20110024233
    Abstract: There is provided a suspendable maintenance platform for accessing a blade of a wind turbine. The platform includes arms for holding a maintenance unit, a frame onto which each arm is movably attached in a joint enabling planar movement, and means for supporting the frame in relation to the wind turbine tower. The maintenance unit is slidably attached to the arms that are configured for positioning the platform in relation to the blade, and wherein the frame is configured to be in close proximity to the turbine tower.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2009
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Inventor: Kenneth Skovbo Lott
  • Patent number: 7857097
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising a frame scaffold with a mechanically operated sliding support, as well as methods of assembling, using and disassembling a frame scaffold using the sliding support are disclosed. The apparatus provides for at least one individual to vertically ascend and/or descend along the perimeter of frame scaffold by mechanical operation. The operator of the apparatus is in close proximity to the scaffold. The apparatus does not require the support of an additional structure (i.e., it is self-supporting). The apparatus provides improved safety and efficiency in the assembly and disassembly of frame scaffold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Inventors: Patrick Evinger, Chris Long
  • Patent number: 7849637
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a fold-up scaffold system that includes multiple spaced vertical beams supported at one end on a floor of a building and scaffold sections extending across the vertical beams. The system also includes means at opposite ends of the scaffold sections for pivotally supporting the scaffold sections to the vertical beams and at least two air cylinders for each scaffold section connected between the scaffold sections and the vertical beams. In addition, each of the at least two air cylinders is adapted to be actuated between a lowered and a raised position, the scaffold sections being pivoted away from the vertical beams when the at least two air cylinders are actuated to the lowered position to provide a substantially horizontal surface and is positioned substantially vertically against the beam when the at least two air cylinders are actuated to the raised position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Inventor: Erwin Lowe
  • Publication number: 20100163339
    Abstract: A fire escape apparatus for a building is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Inventor: Yong-seob Han
  • Publication number: 20090173573
    Abstract: A device for enabling access to a structure above ground or sea level, in particular a rotor blade of a wind turbine, by lowering and/or lifting the device in relation to the structure, the device including a frame structure,—means for supporting the device in relation to the structure, and—means for lowering and/or lifting the device in relation to the structure, where at least part of the frame structure includes a track portion, the track portion being adapted to guide an, in relation to the track portion, movable object along the track portion, where the means for supporting the device in relation to the structure are configured for positioning the device in relation to the structure, and the means for supporting the device in relation to the structure are configured for facilitating a movement of the device essentially in the longitudinal direction of the structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2007
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Applicant: PP ENERGY APS
    Inventor: Paul Teichert
  • Patent number: 7520711
    Abstract: A system for collecting liquids from scrapped vehicles, suitable for completely collecting liquids remaining in a scrapped vehicle, such as fuel, engine oil, brake oil, transmission oil and the like. The system includes a floor having rails positioned in a longitudinal direction on which a bogie frame moves, a lift having posts and carriages for raising the bogie frame together with a scrapped vehicle loaded thereon, a first scaffold and a second scaffold, hydraulic cylinders installed at each corner of the second scaffold, thereby adjusting the height of the second scaffold and a control panel for controlling the operation of collection of liquids from a scrapped vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Won Bae Lee
  • Patent number: 7353817
    Abstract: A wall saw accessory is provided for an aerial work platform, where a wall saw is movably affixed on a track secured to a wall to be sawed. The accessory includes a saw/track manipulator fixable to the aerial work platform. The saw/track manipulator movably supports the track and saw and enables positioning of the saw and track to and from a working position. A hydraulic power source is coupled with a water supply to provide hydraulic power and coolant flow to the wall saw. In one arrangement, the accessory additionally incorporates an onboard pressure washer, which serves to streamline the process and maintain a clean work area. The accessory may be attached to a lift vehicle including a chassis supporting an onboard water supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: JLG Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Korry D. Kobel
  • Patent number: 7093691
    Abstract: A lift assembly includes a first platform provided with a top surface, a pair of opposed sides, and wheels and brackets connected to one of the sides for rotating the assembly. A plurality of rectilinear support shafts have opposed end portions conjoined to the platform and extending upwardly therefrom, and are spaced at opposed corners of the platform. Inverted U-shape guide rails are telescopically engageable along a length of the support shafts and have a pair of rectilinear regions slidably positionable about the support shafts. A second platform is provided with top and bottom surfaces, and apertures formed at opposed corners thereof that are vertically registered with the support shafts. A lifting mechanism is included for vertically biasing the second platform and the guide rails along the support shafts. The lifting mechanism is connected to the top surface of the first platform and the bottom surface of the second platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Inventors: Barry Vaughan, Alvin Vaughan
  • Patent number: 6752244
    Abstract: Apparatus for draining fluids from a vehicle has an elevated platform supported on a frame, the platform being pivotable side-to-side and end-to-end, to permit complete draining of fluids from the vehicle through an opening in the platform prior to dismantling the vehicle for scrapping. A unique bracket assembly connects one end of the platform to the frame at first and second perpendicular pivots, to permit pivoting about both a longitudinal and a transverse axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Assignee: Sheppard Holdings Ltd.
    Inventors: Dean A. Sheppard, Philip J. Sheppard, Michael T. Sheppard, Gordon F. Sheppard
  • Publication number: 20040031645
    Abstract: A vehicle articulation apparatus having an elevated platform supported on a frame, the platform being pivotable side-to-side and end-to-end, to permit complete draining of fluids from the vehicle prior to dismantling the vehicle for scrapping. A unique bracket assembly connects one end of the platform to the frame at first and second perpendicular pivots, to permit pivoting about both a longitudinal and a transverse axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2002
    Publication date: February 19, 2004
    Inventors: Dean A. Sheppard, Philip J. Sheppard, Michael T. Sheppard, Gordon F. Sheppard
  • Patent number: 6659226
    Abstract: A scaffolding system for volumes of various shapes that present a bottom and end walls. The system includes at least a first scaffolding structure having a gantry with at least two interconnected vertical poles; guides secured to the bottom of the volume to guide the poles in rectilinear displacement in a longitudinal direction; a horizontal main platform defining at least a working floor, and guides for guiding the main platform in vertical translation along the poles; at least two horizontal auxiliary platforms each defining a working floor mounted to move in horizontal translation relative to the main platform; and structure for displacing each auxiliary platform separately relative to the main platform between a retracted position and an extended position in which the outer edge of the auxiliary platform is substantially in register with the outer edge of the main platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: Entrepose Echafaudages
    Inventor: Jean-Pierre Sarrazy
  • Patent number: 6390152
    Abstract: A bulk unloading station is formed by two elongated modules stacked one on top of the other. Each module has a frame with pillars and when the upper module is stacked on the lower module the pillars on the upper module align with the pillars on the lower module. The modules are sized for shipment by truck or railroad car to the bulk unloading site. The lower module contains fluid transfer equipment. Unloading arms, with fluid conduits connectable to a fluid containing vehicle at one lateral side of the station, are mounted on the upper module. Conduits extending between the lower module and the upper module include removable segments at the juncture of the modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: Aluminum Ladder Company
    Inventors: John K. Donovan, Eugene R. Brown, Ronald W. Bennett
  • Patent number: 6357550
    Abstract: An accommodation assembly for use as a temporary studio in outside broadcasting comprises a plurality of support legs (2) erectable to upstand from ground level, structural elements (7 to 9) erectable into an accommodation structure (6), and means, such as an electric hoist motor (10) and a chain (11′), arranged to cause the accommodation structure (6), when erected, to self-climb the erected support legs (2) from ground level to an elevation thereabove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Assignee: Trilogy Entertainments, PLC
    Inventor: Ronan Peter Willson
  • Patent number: 6223855
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a device for dismantling vehicles, in particular for draining the latter. The device comprises, on pillars (30), a framework on which the vehicles are placed and inspection-type work platforms (40, 50, 60, 80, 90) which can optionally be pivoted to the side. At least one tank-emptying module and/or at least one liquid-collection module and/or at least one liquid-extraction module are provided on the framework.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Itochu Corporation
    Inventor: Anton Lindner
  • Patent number: 6098352
    Abstract: A deck assembly. The deck assembly may have at least one nonmovable horizontally-oriented unit and at least one movable unit that pivotally attached to a nonmovable unit. The movable unit can be pivoted between a first position wherein it is substantially co-planar with the nonmovable unit to which it is attached to form a substantially planar deck surface. The movable unit may also be selectively pivoted to at least one position wherein it is not co-planar with the nonmovable unit to form an upstanding fence or barrier. Each movable unit may be fitted with a support brace for supporting the nonmovable unit in the non-coplanar position. The deck units may also be equipped with shock absorbers for controlling the pivotal travel of the movable deck units to a predetermined rate. In addition, the deck units may also be pivoted and retained in any non-coplanar position by fluid actuated air cylinders attached between the nonmovable units and the movable units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Inventor: Louis W. Coffen
  • Patent number: 5784835
    Abstract: A support structure for a telescoping seating system includes a wheel coupled to the underside of a foot extension, and support members coupled to the next lowest foot extension. The seat of the next lowest foot extension together with the support members provides substantially continuous support for the wheel throughout the opening and closing of the seating system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Inventor: Louis Robert McArthur, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5685392
    Abstract: A powered lift platform apparatus is disclosed having a fixed support structure and two independently operable platforms which move in both the vertical and horizontal direction, for use with transport containers, such as trailers, shipping containers or rail cars. Each platform comprises an extended work surface or walkway and two moveable end platforms which extend perpendicularly to the extended work surface. Each platform may be independently raised and lowered, and each may be moved laterally toward the opposite platform. The distance between the two platforms and the length of the end platforms, coupled with the range of lateral movement of each platform, are such that the free ends of opposing end platforms can be juxtapositioned to create a rectangular pathway for workers to completely circle the transport container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1997
    Assignee: Vertex Systems Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Garry Phillips, Dan Lee, Herbert Worm, Chris Phillips, Lewis Hardwick, Charles Altendorf, Fabian Tew
  • Patent number: 5392878
    Abstract: An upstanding support structure is provided defining an elevated horizontally elongated stationery platform extending along one side of the support structure and a horizontally elongated second platform is mounted, in cantilever fashion, from the one side of the support structure for vertical shifting relative thereto so as to be downwardly displacable over the upper portion of an elongated bulk material receiving vehicle disposed along side the one side of the support structure adjacent the lower end thereof. The second platform includes a first side fence extending along the side thereof adjacent the support structure as well as end fences extending across the ends of the second platform and appreciably outwardly beyond the outer side of the second platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1995
    Assignee: Aluminum Ladder Company
    Inventors: Ronald W. Bennett, Bruce A. Pech
  • Patent number: 5118101
    Abstract: A platform for plyometric (jumping) exercises includes two horizontal platforms or steps of individually adjustable height. The steps are adjustably attached to a pair of uprights which extend upward from a base. The two uprights are parallel, about five feet long and one and a half feet apart. The uprights are formed of square section steel tubing. The steps include brackets which slide on the tubing and lock into various height positions by means of pins passed through holes in the tubing and brackets. A user may jump onto or off of the steps, or stand on them and exercise while holding a pair of handles which also attach to the uprights with pins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1992
    Inventor: Raymond N. Belli
  • Patent number: 5067587
    Abstract: The mobile scaffolding unit has a tower, a work platform and a service platform. The work platform can be resupplied by the service platform so as to maintain the work platform at a working elevation. The work and service platforms are located on the vertically orientated tower. Each platform is provided with electric motors to propel the platforms along the tower. The service platform is located below the work platform. The work platform has hatches in its deck for receiving cargo. The hatches are covered with doors. Cargo is located on raised platforms on the deck of the service platform. The service platform then moves up the tower to a position immediately beneath the work platform. The cargo is received by the hatches on the work platform as the service platform moves up the tower, wherein when the service platform is immediately below the work platform, the cargo is at the same level as the work platform deck. The cargo is then moved onto the work platform deck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1991
    Assignee: William F. Mims, Jr.
    Inventors: William F. Mims, Jr., Richard T. Bramlett, Kenneth G. Oatman
  • Patent number: 5042612
    Abstract: An upstanding support structure is provided defining an elevated horizontally elongated stationary platform extending along one side of the support structure and a horizontally elongated second platform is mounted, in cantilever fashion, from the one side of the support structure for vertical shifting relative thereto so as to be downwardly displaceable over the upper portion of an elongated bulk material receiving vehicle disposed along side the one side of the support structure adjacent the lower end thereof. The second platform includes a first side fence extending along the side thereof adjacent the support structure as well as end fences extending across the ends of the second platform and appreciably outwardly beyond the outer side of the second platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1991
    Assignee: Aluminum Ladder Company
    Inventors: Ronald W. Bennett, Bruce A. Pech
  • Patent number: 5029671
    Abstract: A compact foldable mechanic's walk for facilitating servicing of motor vehicles by improving access to the engine compartment. The mechanic's walk includes a pair of relatively narrow elongated planar mirror image platform members hingedly connected together along abuttable acute angular ends. The platform members are supportable by a plurality of pivotally supported legs adapted to be folded in against the bottom surfaces of the platform members. The platform members preferably are flanged so that in folded condition the in-folded support legs are enclosed within a box-like enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1991
    Inventor: Robert L. Larson
  • Patent number: 4782917
    Abstract: An adjustable scaffold having a generally rectangular frame including a pair of clamp sections associated with one side of the frame and a first step section associated with the other side of the frame, pairs of legs pivotly mounted to the frame and said generally rectangular platform having vertically downwardly extending support arms complementary to the clamp sections to support the platform in an offset position closer to one side of the frame than the other, the platform being removable from the clamp sections and storable between the clamp sections and the first step section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 8, 1988
    Inventor: Richard H. Schulz
  • Patent number: 4712647
    Abstract: A portable and collapsible platform (10) designed to be hung to a set of attachment hooks (30) that are attached to a stationary structure such as a wall, beam or building eaves. The platform (10) includes a pair of inward vertical members (12), and a pair of outward vertical members (14) that are rotatably connected by a plurality of horizontal members (16) and a pair of angular support members (18). On top of the horizontal member pairs is placed a utility platform (20) that allows a worker to stand or sit. The collapsible feature of the invention is easily performed by pressing inwardly against the outward vertical members (14) until all the outward members (14), (16), (18)are nested within the inward vertical members (12). Once collapsed, the inward and outward vertical members (12), (14) are locked in place by a locking means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1987
    Inventor: Richard A. Romine
  • Patent number: 4690246
    Abstract: An improved work platform suitable for mounting on a vehicle mounted telescoping boom. The work platform includes a fixed platform section mounted on the tip of the boom in conjunction with a leveling mechanism. Two movable side platform sections are pivotally fastened at one of their ends to the fixed platform section for independent movement on either side of a centerline. The side platform sections may be moved apart in a scissors-like motion so that the platform may be maneuvered to straddle the object being worked on. Bumpers and troughs are provided along the inner edge of the side platform sections to protect the object being worked on and to prevent articles from rolling off the platform. When the side panel sections are moved into abutment to use the platform as a conventional unitary platform, a hinged flap on one of the side platform sections covers the abutting edges of the side platform sections, the bumpers and the troughs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1985
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1987
    Assignee: Simon Aerials, Inc.
    Inventors: John T. Hornagold, Paul Pezewski
  • Patent number: 4679657
    Abstract: An elevated platform is provided including one longitudinal marginal portion alongside which an elongated tank body of a vehicle may be disposed. The marginal portion of the platform pivotally mounts a pair of extension panels therefrom in slightly spaced relation therealong for movement between raised inoperative positions and downwardly and outwardly inclined operative positions and a step ramp has one end pivotally mounted from the platform between the panels for swinging movement between a raised inoperative position and a downwardly and outwardly inclined inoperative position. The outer margins of the panels and the outer end of the step ramp are generally coterminous when in the operative positions for engagement with and support from the near side of the top of a tank body and an upstanding railing assembly is swingably mounted from the platform and positionable for engaging and the support from the far side of the top of a tank body with which the panels and the ramp are engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1986
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1987
    Assignee: Aluminum Ladder Company
    Inventors: Ronald W. Bennett, Ellie H. MacDonald
  • Patent number: 4630708
    Abstract: An adjustable service platform apparatus for a gantry crane having an elongated base frame which includes a pair of horizontally sliding beams which are laterally extendible outboard in opposite directions from the base frame. Detachable towers with work platforms at the tops are secured to the ends of the sliding beams. The platforms can be raised and lowered and moved inboard and outboard along the crane by the hoist and trolley motions of the crane and can be laterally extended and retracted independently from the hoist and trolley motions of the crane. Operators standing on the work platforms can readily move them to provide access to and permit inspection of the structural elements of the crane's supporting structure from the top of the boom to part way down the base structure of the crane by means of work platform controls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1986
    Inventor: George J. Thompson
  • Patent number: 4624342
    Abstract: A side rail system for interconnecting layered sections of elongated scaffold staging with the sections respectively spanning pairs of opposing upper and lower support arms of pump jacks which respectively ride on spaced apart pump jack poles. The side rail system includes upright posts which are spaced along the staging. A pair of rods are associated with each of the posts. The rods confrontingly project from the respective staging sections. The posts are pivotally coupled to the rods and are secured to the rods by quick adjust pins to prevent separation of the rods and posts. A mid-rail as well as a toe board can be interconnected between the rails. An end rail system can also be included. The scaffolding arrangement can be used exteriorly with a brace onto a wall. It can also be used interiorly between roof and floor with appropriate height adjustment arrangement provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1986
    Inventor: Carl E. Anderson
  • Patent number: 4576249
    Abstract: A device for fighting fires in highrise buildings and towers is disclosed, whereby a pair of parallel arranged platforms are provided for alternative ascension up the side of the building in stepwise fashion. The upper platform is first released from fixed connection with the upper story to which it is attached and raised relatively to the lower platform still fixedly attached the story of the building below. After raising the upper platform to a higher story, it is fixedly attached to that story, whereupon the lower platform is released and raised toward the upper platform until it is positioned adjacent the story previously having the upper platform attached thereto. At this point, the lower platform is fixedly attached to that story. The process repeats a series of times to climb up the side of the building to the upper floors where a fire is burning to put out the fire and save lives. To descend, the process is simply reversed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1984
    Date of Patent: March 18, 1986
    Inventor: John P. Zima
  • Patent number: 4570751
    Abstract: An adjustable-height scaffolding comprises a plurality of telescoping variable height adjustable supports each having an outer pipe and an inner pipe slidably mounted inside the outer pipe of the supports and two scaffolding platforms pivotally attached to the top portion of the telescoping supports with horizontal pivot axes. The scaffolding is structured so that each of the scaffolding platforms has an upright resting position for storage, transport, and the like and a collapsible horizontal working position. Four of the telescoping supports are provided as central supports for the scaffolding. The central supports form the corner posts for a substantially rectangular frame supporting the scaffolding platforms. Two of the telescoping central supports are pivotally attached to each one of the scaffolding platforms adjacent the other one of the scaffolding platforms. The top portion of the inner pipes of the corner posts are attached pivotally to the scaffolding platforms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1985
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1986
    Inventor: Gerhard Kleu
  • Patent number: 4492501
    Abstract: A platform positioning system for a drilling device of the type which includes a support structure and a transfer arm pivotally connected to the support structure to rotate about a first axis is disclosed. This platform positioning system includes a platform which is pivotally connected to the support structure to rotate about a second axis, and a rod which is mounted between the transfer arm and the platform. The position of the arm and platform axes and the length of the rod are selected such that the transfer arm automatically and progressively raises the platform to the raised position by means of the rod as the transfer arm moves to the raised position, and the transfer arm automatically and progressively lowers the platform to the lowered position by means of the rod as the transfer arm moves to the lowered position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1983
    Date of Patent: January 8, 1985
    Assignee: Walker-Neer Manufacturing Company Inc.
    Inventor: Keith M. Haney
  • Patent number: 4397374
    Abstract: An automobile mechanic's body support including a T-shaped mobile frame and rectangular tube members supported thereon. The support includes a platform for the mechanic to stand on and also a platform for the mechanic to lie on. Adjustments interconnect the platforms with the remainder of the support for adjusting both platforms for optimum positioning of the mechanic so that his body weight can be distributed between the standing platform and the chest-rest platform. Also, the stem of the T-shape permits the support to be positioned immediately adjacent the automobile front wheel for optimum accessibility to the engine compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1982
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1983
    Inventors: Donald V. Rumage, Terry L. Biarnesen
  • Patent number: 4293054
    Abstract: Scaffolding including at least: two posts (1), a lifting working bridge (2) and a lifting platform (3), said scaffolding being made of modular elements, connectable to each other in disassemblable manner, each post (1), which is triangular in cross section, being formed; by a base lattice element (7) which can rest on the ground selectively by means of wheels (15) or by feet (16) of adjustable height; and by other lattice elements (7a), each bridge (2) platform (3) having a carrying structure including; at least a carrying framework (31) supporting a motor unit (4) and a braking unit (5) mounted in correspondence of each post (1); and end lattice elements (46) and intermediate lattice elements (47a, 47b) triangular in vertical cross section, said carrying structure also supporting a front and a rear parapet (149 and 150), each made of modular elements (56), at least the parapet (150) being mounted so as to be moved to and from the other parapet (149) so as to vary the width of the walk surface (148) of the br
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1980
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1981
    Assignee: PIAT Impalcature Automatiche S.p.A.
    Inventor: Antonio Pieri
  • Patent number: 4237661
    Abstract: A support stand for use with an above ground pool which includes a pair of collapsible, spaced, support standards and a platform spanning the support standards and supported by an arm pivotally connected to each of the two support standards, the arms being braced by a support system of pivotally interconnected brace members; and the standard may include a seat above the platform and a tray below the platform, the latter being to support articles. For shipment and storage, the stand is adapted to collapse into a compact unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1978
    Date of Patent: December 9, 1980
    Inventors: George F. Adams, Sr., Mary L. Adams
  • Patent number: 4188069
    Abstract: In a cutting machine having a cutter arm which is mounted at one end for universal pivotal movement and which carries at its free end a cutting tool: a walk-on platform covering at least part of the cutter arm, said platform being box-shaped in cross-section and having a width greater than the width of the cutter arm so as to protrude beyond the sides of the cutter arm and said platform having a generally planar top wall and a bottom wall which conforms to and rests on the exterior surface of the cutter arm; and at least one walk-on plate hinged to the platform at a side edge thereof for swinging movement about an axis which is approximately parallel to the axis of the cutter arm, said plate having a width less than the width of the upper wall of the platform movable from a position in which it lies on the top wall of the platform to an extended position in which it is approximately co-planar with the top wall of the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1978
    Date of Patent: February 12, 1980
    Assignee: Vereinigte Osterreichische Eisen- und Stahlwerke - Alpine Montan Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Arnulf Kissich, Florian Sussenbacher
  • Patent number: 4121693
    Abstract: An arrangement for assisting access to a high rise building in the event of fire within the building in which chains are secured to a movable frame so that when the apparatus is in an extended position, the chains hang well away from the face of the building, and a cabin can engage the chains which can be held stabilized by downward tension, and the cabin being self-climbing, can provide the said access to the building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1976
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1978
    Inventor: Philip W. Fry