US20050118004A1 - Removable load bed for a vehicle - Google Patents
Removable load bed for a vehicle Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20050118004A1 US20050118004A1 US11/031,131 US3113105A US2005118004A1 US 20050118004 A1 US20050118004 A1 US 20050118004A1 US 3113105 A US3113105 A US 3113105A US 2005118004 A1 US2005118004 A1 US 2005118004A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- frame
- elevatable support
- movable frame
- end portion
- chain
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60P—VEHICLES ADAPTED FOR LOAD TRANSPORTATION OR TO TRANSPORT, TO CARRY, OR TO COMPRISE SPECIAL LOADS OR OBJECTS
- B60P1/00—Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading
- B60P1/64—Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading the load supporting or containing element being readily removable
- B60P1/6418—Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading the load supporting or containing element being readily removable the load-transporting element being a container or similar
- B60P1/6454—Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading the load supporting or containing element being readily removable the load-transporting element being a container or similar the load transporting element being shifted by means of an inclined ramp connected to the vehicle
Definitions
- the present invention relates to devices for loading and unloading containers and more particularly, to a chain locking mechanism for safely loading a movable frame onto a stationary vehicle.
- a conventional cab and chassis vehicle when used to transport loads usually comprises a frame and a device for pulling a movable frame from the ground up and over onto the vehicles' stationary frame, and guiding the frame into the loaded position.
- the movable frame supports a load which is transferred from the ground to the vehicle chassis via an arrangement of elevating booms and guide systems that are controlled by an operator.
- U.S. Pat. No. 1,794,318 discloses a dumping body frame truck that is driven by a chain drive.
- the body is formed by telescopic sections that are collapsed to dump a load. While the sections are designed to slide along the chassis body, there is no bed that is removable from the chassis.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,203,788 (Marmur) discloses an apparatus for loading a container onto a truck body or trailer. This arrangement discloses the use of a pivoting arm and a cable to move the trailer.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,269,746 discloses a container loading and unloading system that is particularly suited for loading campers and cargo boxes onto a truck bed.
- the system appears to be independent of the vehicle except for a yoke and pivot bar structure that is attached to the rear bumper.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,856,869 discloses a removable load bed that includes a tiltable bed that is operated by a piston to control loading and unloading of the container.
- the system relies on a cable and bracket system to move the container. While the tiltable bed and interlocking bracket and cavity aspect of this patent appear to address deficiencies that are present in the previously described patents, it still suffers from the potential that the cable may come off the bracket, and therefore, could potentially be a safety hazard.
- the frames of common conventional loading devices are generally similar in size and construction, and thus many of the loads that are to be used with such a frame arrangement tend to rely on a smooth and easy transfer from the ground to the truck bed. It is often difficult to maintain adequate control of this maneuver, and thus inadvertent lateral movement and slippage of the pulling mechanism can occur, especially during the initial lifting procedure.
- the invention reduces the difficulties and disadvantages of the prior art by providing a guide system, a simple chain locking assembly and a device to control tilting action which can be retrofitted to most conventional truck chassis at relatively low cost.
- the device provides a secure and simple means for loading a load onto a truck, thus reducing relative movement therebetween.
- the invention provides a loading apparatus for a vehicle, the apparatus comprising:
- the invention provides:
- the invention provides the first arm member having a projection extending outwardly therefrom, the arm member having a first end portion and a second end portion, the first end portion being urged towards the chain, the second end portion being pivotally attached to the first end portion of the support; the second arm member having a first end portion and a second end portion, the first end portion being urged towards the chain, the second end portion being pivotally attached to the second end portion of the support member; and the third arm member having a first end portion and a second end portion, the first end portion, the second end portion being pivotally attached to the second end portion of the support member.
- the third arm member has a groove disposed therein, the groove being shaped to cooperate with the projection on the first arm member.
- the invention provides the first frame further comprising: a front end portion and a rear end portion, the frame being mounted on a vehicle chassis, a prime mover mounted on the chassis; and an axle connected to the drive wheel to alternatively move the drive wheel in a first and a second direction.
- the invention provides a loading frame comprising: the first frame as claimed as described above; an actuator; and an elevatable support to receive a load from the second frame and connected to the actuator.
- the loading frame further including: a guide system having a central rail shaped to cooperate with the second frame.
- the rail has a slidably resilient material fixably mounted thereupon.
- the invention provides the second frame further having: a plurality of wheels such that the second frame is movable relative to the first frame; a first rail, a second rail and a central rail, the central rail being shaped so as to cooperate with the central rail on the first frame.
- the invention provides the second frame having a front end portion and a rear end portion, the front end portion being disposed towards the rear end portion of first frame.
- FIG. 1 is a side view of a first embodiment of the invention showing a movable frame engaging a stationary frame on a vehicle via a chain;
- FIG. 2 is a top view of the vehicle showing the stationary frame attached to the vehicle;
- FIG. 3 is a rear end view of the rear block assemblies mounted on the rear of the vehicle
- FIG. 4 is a simplified side view of the first embodiment showing the relationship between a rear block assembly and a frame rail;
- FIG. 5 is a simplified view of the locking pin assembly
- FIG. 6 is a side view of the moveable frame
- FIG. 7 is a top view of the movable frame
- FIG. 8 is a simplified side view of the chain detail attached to the movable frame
- FIG. 9 is a simplified side view of the first embodiment in a locked position engaging the chain
- FIG. 10 is a simplified view of the first embodiment in a partially open position showing the frame engaging the locking system
- FIG. 11 is a simplified side view of the first embodiment in a fully open position
- FIG. 12 is a simplified end-on view of the moveable frame loaded on the stationary frame showing the interlocking of the rail systems
- FIG. 13 is a schematic rear view of the first embodiment
- FIG. 14 is a front end view of the moveable frame
- FIG. 15 is a simplified view of the internal ramp and lift tab
- FIG. 16 is a schematic view of the stationary shoe showing shape
- FIG. 17 is a side view of the front end of the moveable frame
- FIG. 18 is a detailed side view of the stationary frame
- FIG. 19 is a detailed view of the elevatable support
- FIG. 20 is a detailed top view of the front of the moveable frame rail.
- FIG. 21 is a cut away side view of the movable frame shown in FIG. 7 , balanced on the stationary frame shown in FIG. 2 .
- an apparatus is shown generally at 10 and connects a movable frame 11 to a conventional cab and chassis vehicle 13 via a chain 66 , the frame 11 having a load 100 securely mounted thereupon.
- the vehicle 13 has a chassis 9 and a stationary frame 19 securely mounted thereupon.
- the stationary frame 19 is a “skeleton body” and is secured to the chassis 9 by conventional means, and is arranged such that a front end of the frame is disposed towards the rear of the cab of the vehicle 13 and a rear end portion is disposed towards a rear end portion of the chassis 9 .
- the stationary frame 19 has a guide system mounted on the chassis 9 of the vehicle 13 and comprises a “skeleton-type” arrangement of rails 16 .
- the rails 16 are positioned parallel to each other along the side of the chassis 9 and are shaped so as to allow efficient sliding and seating of the moveable frame 11 during loading and are coated with an ultra-high molecular weight (UHMW) polymer 20 .
- UHMW ultra-high molecular weight
- polymers of this type act as a lubricant to assist the moveable frame 11 as it slides over the stationary frame 19 , as will be described below. It will be understood that there are many different types of polymeric coatings used in this type of operation.
- an elevatable support 17 is centrally and rotatably attached to an axle 14 and includes a “skeleton framework” 61 having a separate guide system 59 consisting of a forwardly disposed end and a rearwardly disposed end.
- the guide system 59 consists of a C-shaped channel 54 with an internal ramp 33 , and a slide rail 44 .
- the slide rail 44 is covered with UHMW 50 on upper and lower faces.
- the skeleton framework 61 has two ends and a center that is parallel to the axle 14 .
- the skeleton framework 61 ends are rotatably attached to the axle 14 by a pair of bushings 106 .
- the position of skeleton framework 61 on the axle 14 is maintained by a pair of cylindrical spacers 107 .
- Each spacer 107 is positioned on the axle 14 between the elevatable support bushings 106 and a pair of outer axle bearings 108 .
- bearings of different types may be used in place of the bushings 106 and spacers 107 .
- the axle 14 is rotatably mounted to the chassis 9 by the bearings 108 and a bearing 122 .
- Each bearing 108 is fixably attached to and located on the axle 14 adjacent the two end portions 21 and 55 .
- the bearings 108 are fixably attached to each of the chassis 9 frame rails.
- the bearing 122 is fixably attached and located in the center of the axle 14 and is supported by the stationary frame 19 .
- the axle 14 is driven by an electric motor 94 .
- the axle 14 has two end portions 21 and 55 that covers the first embodiment 10 .
- the motor 94 is attached to the axle 14 by a keyed sprocket and an endless roller chain 104 .
- the turning motion of the axle 14 is transferred to a pair of keyed sprockets 12 that are mounted on the ends of the axle 14 .
- the guide system 59 is aligned parallel to and between the frame rails 16 , and is fixably attached to the framework 61 such that a movable frame receiver 72 aligns and interlocks with the slide rail 44 when the frame 11 is mounted on stationary frame 19 , as will be described.
- the bottom edge of the rearwardly disposed section of the guide system 59 is fixably attached to the top edge of the center portion of the skeleton framework 61 .
- a pair of support frame members, 111 and 112 are attached to the guide system 59 , and each having first and second ends.
- the first end top edges of the support members, 111 and 112 are fixably attached to the bottom edge of the forwardly disposed end of guide system 59 , whereas the second ends are fixably attached to the corresponding ends of the skeleton framework 61 .
- the support members, 111 and 112 support the forwardly disposed end of guide system 59 , thereby ensuring the guide system 59 remains parallel with the frame rails 58 on the moveable frame 11 .
- the top and bottom surfaces of the rail 44 are covered with UHMW 50 .
- a hydraulic cylinder 46 is attached to the stationary frame 19 and is moved by a pair of arms, 15 and 37 , that are pivotally attached to the frame 19 , a cross member 53 and the forwardly disposed end of the guide system 59 .
- the hydraulic cylinder 46 acts as a shock absorber during on-loading and off-loading and also allows an operator to stop the tilting motion of the moveable frame 11 at any time thereby giving the system a greater degree of control during operation. It will be understood that other “damping” systems may be used with the elevatable support 17 .
- elevatable support 17 does not require arms 15 and 37 for the hydraulic cylinder 46 .
- Another possible method would be to use a longer cylinder thereby avoiding the use of the arms, 15 and 37 .
- the elevatable support 17 is pivotally attached to the axle 14 that is positioned at the rear end of the vehicle 13 .
- the movable frame rail 58 pivots when loading or offloading on the surface of a slide 8 with the center of the circumference of the axle 14 being the center of the arc of the slide 8 (see FIG. 4 ).
- a pair of springs 43 assist in lifting and holding the elevatable support 17 up by exerting a twisting force on a hinge pin 47 that is fixably attached to the arm 15 .
- the outer coils of the springs 43 are attached to a bar 64 that is attached to the arm 37 .
- This twisting action assists in opening the arms, 15 and 37 , with the hinge pin 47 as the center axis.
- the lifting and maintaining of the elevatable support 17 vertical position may be accomplished by placing the springs in other areas, for example, over the cylinder 46 or to the frame 19 and lifting under the arms, 15 and 37 , below the hinge pin 47 .
- Those skilled in the art will recognize other means of assisting the lift and holding the elevatable support.
- elevatable support 17 does not require arms 15 and 37 for the hydraulic cylinder 46 .
- Another possible method would be to use a longer cylinder thereby avoiding the use of the arms, 15 and 37 .
- the frame 19 has a pair of rear block assemblies 80 generally located at the rear end of the frame rails 16 of the vehicle 13 and fixably attached to the chassis 9 .
- Each rear block assembly 80 consists of a slide arrangement 8 that is designed to evenly distribute the load of the movable frame 11 during loading and unloading, and to distribute the overall weight of the loaded moving frame away from the sprockets 12 during the loading and unloading process.
- the axle 14 , the sprocket 12 , the elevatable support 17 and the slide arrangement 8 are co-axially arranged, ensuring the vertical alignment of the elevatable support rail 44 with the receiver 72 ( FIG. 12 ) while the slides 8 , rails 16 and the frame rails 58 assume lateral alignment.
- a locking pin assembly 82 At the front end of the stationary frame is a locking pin assembly 82 .
- the assembly 82 provides a manual positive lock system when the movable frame 11 is fully loaded on the stationary frame 19 and is a safety feature that prevents movement of the movable frame 11 into the cab of the vehicle during an accident.
- a rod 74 is attached to a first locking pin 71 and second locking pin 78 , adjacent a handle 89 .
- the first pin 71 is moveable in the same direction as the rod 74 .
- the second pin 78 is positioned away from the handle 89 and is attached to a fulcrum plate 76 which reverses the direction of the rod 74 during operation.
- the first pin 71 moves in the same direction
- the pin 78 moves in a second direction.
- a pair of stop plates 81 in the rear block assembly 80 act as collision impact buffers to prevent the movable frame 11 from damaging the vehicle body when a movable frame stop plate 67 abuts the stop plate 81 .
- the stop plates 81 and 67 allow precise location of the movable frame 11 on the frame 19 and also allows for precise alignment of the locking pin assembly 82 (see FIGS. 4, 5 and 12 ) on the frame 19 with a plurality of lock pin holes (not shown) on the movable frame 11 .
- Slide 8 on the rear block assembly 80 are coated with the UHMW 45 that acts as a lubricant to assist the movable frame as it slides over the rear block 80 .
- the rear block assembly stop plates 81 are positioned rearward of the axle 14 yet forward of the most rearward teeth of the sprocket 12 . As seen in FIGS. 1, 7 , 8 and 17 , this allows a cross member 65 and a front portion 25 of the rail 58 to be unobstructed by the stop plate 81 when lifting or lowering moveable frame 11 when tag chains 66 and or links 62 are engaged on teeth of the sprockets 12 .
- the elevatable support 17 With the moveable frame 11 tilting backward, the front of the receiver 72 tilts up, and with the receiver 72 and the slide rail 44 interlocked, the elevatable support 17 also moves up.
- the elevatable support 17 in turn pulls on the arms 15 by an arm pin 48 .
- the arm 15 pulls on the hinge pin 47 in turn pulling the lower arm 37 up with the lower end of the arms 37 connected to the sub frame cross member 1 with a hinge pin 49 .
- the arms 15 and 37 hinge open with hinging taking place on the hinge pin 47 .
- This action extends the hydraulic cylinder 46 as the ram 41 is connected to the arm 15 through the upper cylinder pin 39 and the barrel of the cylinder 42 is connected to lower arm 37 by a lower cylinder pin 51 .
- An operator can allow the moveable frame 11 to tilt without further forward and rearward movement if frame 11 is in an unbalanced condition.
- the movable frame 11 comprises a “skeleton body” type frame with a pair of longitudinal rails 58 which act as slides so as to guide the rails 16 on the frame 19 .
- the receiver 72 Disposed between, and parallel to, the rails 58 is the receiver 72 which is positioned across the under side of a plurality of cross members 77 and along a portion of the frame 11 length.
- Mounted to the frame is the load 100 and a set of removable wheels 56 to allow movement.
- the movable frame 11 has a front end portion 25 and a rear end portion 27 .
- the front end portion 25 is disposed toward the rear of the stationary frame 19 during initial maneuvering.
- the load 100 is attached to the frame 11 with the front portion 25 of the box 100 positioned rearward of the front portion 25 of the frame 11 . This positioning allows the movable frame 11 , when on or off-loading, to be lifted or lowered without the box 100 contacting the tag chains 66 or the sprockets 12 .
- the frame 11 has a tag chain 66 that is attached to a roller chain 83 .
- the roller chain 83 is fixably attached to a roller chain frame 60 , which in turn is fixably mounted to the frame 11 .
- the vertical distance between the bottom face of the portion of rail 58 that slides on the top of slide 8 and the bottom of the roller on the roller chain 83 is equivalent to the distance between the radiuses of the slide 8 and bottom of valleys, between the teeth, of sprocket 12 .
- the curved nose 123 of the front portion of the rail 58 that slides over slide 8 is curved to allow the rail 58 to slide over slide 8 when initially loading a heavily loaded frame 11 .
- a first link 62 of the chain 83 is positioned adjacent lips 52 that are supported on the frame 11 .
- the lips 52 forwardly protrude from the roller chain frame 60 and over the top of the side plates of the link 62 and prevent the over stressing of the side plates. This reduces the possibility that the side plates may break during the lifting or lowering of the front portion 25 of the frame 11 .
- the side plates are not designed for excessive force 90 degrees to the chain side plate.
- the tag chain 66 has an unattached end portion 63 that enables an operator to guide the tag chain 66 onto the sprockets 12 of the frame 19 .
- the sprockets 12 are positioned such that the unattached end portion 63 of the chain 66 can be engaged on the sprockets without hindrance from other components.
- the tag chain 66 is pulled tight in the direction of the wheels' rotation and serves to pull the loaded frame 11 toward and up onto the first frame 19 .
- the tag chains 66 are pivoted up and back on to the top of roller chain frame 60 . This advantageously protects the chain from damage.
- There is a corresponding storage track 84 on the frame 19 which also acts as a housing for the tag chain 66 when the frame 19 is fully loaded with the movable frame 11 .
- a plurality of disposed tie-down brackets 85 on the frame 19 permit locking of the movable frame 11 to the frame 19 in the final loaded position. Disposed towards each of the four corners of the movable frame 11 , the tie-down brackets 85 lock the movable frame 11 to the frame 19 to prevent vertical movement of the movable frame during motion of the vehicle over uneven ground.
- the movable frame 11 has a plurality of tie-down brackets 86 that cooperate with the tie-down brackets 85 on the frame 19 .
- the forwardly disposed frame brackets, 85 and 86 are positioned lower than the rearwardly disposed frame brackets, 85 and 86 , to allow the forwardly disposed frame brackets 86 on the movable frame 11 to slide under the rearwardly disposed brackets 85 of the frame 19 during the initial loading.
- the brackets 86 are positioned directly under the corresponding stationary frame brackets 85 .
- the brackets eliminate excessive noise between frame 11 and frame 19 when the vehicle is operating and also has the safety advantage of preventing a roll over of the movable frame 11 when loaded on the frame 19 .
- the movable frame 11 has wheels 56 on the frame 11 so that frame 11 can be moved relative to the stationary frame 19 prior to engagement.
- the wheels 56 are removable when the wheels are off the ground.
- the wheels 56 are removed by removing the hitch pin 113 from pin hole (not shown) in the wheel support tubing 114 and allowing the shaft of front wheel frame 57 to drop down out of the movable frame wheel support tubing 114 , then replacing hitch pin 113 in pin hole.
- the vehicle 13 may be maneuvered to align to the moveable frame, such that if the wheels 56 are used on the rear of the movable frame 11 , they are aligned such that they track straight and parallel to the lines of the movable frame rails 58 . This wheel alignment encourages the movable frame 11 to remain in alignment with the frame 19 when loading and off-loading.
- each of the chain locking systems 10 comprises a sprocket 12 , a movable shoe arm 22 , a movable shoe 26 , a sensing plate 32 , a locking arm 28 , a support member 88 and a pair of main springs 36 and 38 , attachment bracket 93 , slot 120 , bolt 110 , spring tensioning plate 35 and pin 119 .
- the support member 88 has a first end portion 101 and a second end portion 102 and is fixably attached by attachment bracket 93 to the chassis frame 9 .
- the first end portion has a slot 120 best seen on FIG.
- the adjustable spring tensioning plate 35 Fixably attached to the first end portion 101 by a bolt 110 is the adjustable spring tensioning plate 35 and fixably attached to the spring tensioning plate is a pin 119 .
- the pin 119 has two ends and each end projects from the side spring tensioning plate 35 .
- the first end has a slot in the pin that the spring 36 is fixably attached to and the second end is positioned as a pivot for the arm 22 with arm 22 positioned in slot 120 .
- the center portion of the support member 88 is a bushing 109 that encases the circumference of the axle 14 adjacent the outer end. The support member 88 allows axle 14 to rotate inside the bushing 109 additionally supporting the axle 14 by the chassis 9 when the front end portion 25 of the movable frame is being lifted during initial loading.
- the support member 88 allows the axle 14 to rigidly support a stationary shoe 23 .
- the roller chain frame 60 will rise up to the stationary shoe 23 thereby keeping the chain 83 engaged with the sprocket teeth 12 .
- the stationary shoe 23 is advantageously placed and shaped so that it maintains the tag chain 66 or the roller chain 83 on the sprocket. Referring to FIG. 16 , the stationary shoe 23 is positioned at an imaginary intersection point that is defined by the tangential angle of contact between the movable frame and the sprocket. This exact placement allows the movable frame 11 to maintain a maximum angle during loading, as shown by a pair of tangent lines 117 and 116 .
- the stationary shoe 23 is also shaped so that it follows these tangent lines and this allows the movable frame 11 to rotate through all desired angles on the sprocket. In all cases, the stationary shoe 23 prevents the tag chain 66 and the roller chain 83 from skipping off of the teeth on the sprocket 12 by allowing minimum clearance between the stationary shoe 23 and the sprocket 12 .
- the stationary shoe 23 with the combined strength of the axle 14 and the support 88 , the frame 11 and a frame attachment bracket 93 , prevents the movable frame 11 from rolling sideways off the vehicle should the other safeties fail.
- the sensing/locking arm shaft 40 is rotatably mounted on the second end portion 102 of the support member 88 .
- the locking arm 28 , the sensing plate 32 and the main spring 38 are co-axially and fixably attached to the shaft 40 .
- the outer coil end of spring 38 is fixably attached to an attachment bracket 93 .
- the movable shoe arm 22 has a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion of the shoe arm 22 is urged towards the chain and the second end portion is pivotally attached to the first end portion in slot 120 of the support 88 by the pin 119 .
- the moveable shoe arm 22 has a projection 103 that extends outwardly therefrom.
- the movable shoe 22 has a second projection 118 and fixably attached to this projection is the outer coil of the spring 36 .
- the locking arm 28 has a first end portion and a second end portion, the second end portion being fixably attached to the first end portion of the shaft 40 ( FIG. 13 ).
- the locking arm 28 has a groove 31 that is machined into the body. The groove 31 is shaped so that when the shoe 22 and the arm 28 are sprung into a closed position, the groove 31 co-operates closely with the projection 103 on the shoe arm 22 .
- the arm 28 also has a tab 30 that is shaped such that it pushes chain 66 off of the sprocket 12 .
- the tab 30 also redirects the chain 66 back onto the teeth of the sprocket 12 .
- the sensing plate 32 has a first end portion and second end portion.
- the first end portion of the plate 32 has a bearing 34 attached thereto and is urged upwards against the bottom side 92 ( FIG. 11 ) of the movable frame rails 58 .
- the second end portion of the plate 32 is fixably attached to the center portion of the sensing/locking plate shaft 40 .
- the movable shoe 22 spring tensioning can be adjusted by turning the bolt 110 to loosen the spring tensioning plate 35 and then swiveling the plate which in turn turns the center of the main spring 36 .
- a front release fork 24 prevents the tag chain 66 from wrapping around the sprocket 12 during the initial chain engagement.
- a rear chain release fork 18 prevents the tag chain 66 from wrapping around the sprocket 12 after the movable frame 11 is lowered to the ground but before the sprockets 12 allow the tag chain ends to drop to the ground.
- a pair of stop plates 68 at the rear end portion 27 of the moveable frame 11 abuts a pair of stop plates 81 in the rear block assembly 80 .
- the stop plate face 68 is also covered with UHMW 67 to prevent the rubbing noise of metal on metal when the vehicle is moving.
- the operation of the first embodiment will now be described.
- the tag chain 66 is placed onto the sprocket 12 .
- the tag chains 66 are aligned to the rear of the stationary shoe 23 so as to line the end portion 63 of the chains in the same clock position on the sprockets 12 .
- the operator activates the motor 94 from an electrical control box (not shown) which releases an integral motor brake and begins rotation of the axle 14 .
- the tag chain 66 tightens and the front-end portion 25 of the movable frame 11 begins lifting off of the ground.
- the weight of the movable frame 11 is distributed between both of the rear wheel assemblies 56 , the ground, the two tag chains 66 and the sprockets 12 .
- the tag chain lifting force is transferred 90 degrees to the first link 62 of the roller chain 83 .
- Each sprocket 12 has about 180° of contact with the tag chain 66 . This is sufficient contact to allow safe lifting or lowering of the movable frame 11 .
- the front release fork 24 prevents the tag chain 66 from wrapping around the sprocket 12 .
- the chain 66 begins lifting the weight of the movable frame 11 .
- the tag chain/locking process remains in place until the weight of the loaded movable frame 11 is supported by the rear block assembly slide 8 .
- the tag chains 66 are prevented from working off the sprockets 12 by the movable shoes 26 that are positioned directly above the sprocket 12 and are held in position by the locking arms 28 .
- the chain locking mechanism is a positive tag chain-to-sprocket locking device that reduces or essentially eliminates the possibility of the tag chain 66 being pulled off the sprockets 12 when the locking arm 28 is in position.
- the movable frame 11 continues being pulled up and forward towards the frame 19 with two tag chains 66 and two roller chain links 62 now in contact with sprockets 12 .
- the two frame rails 58 begin to slide over the slides 8 .
- the frame rails 58 and slide 8 take the weight of the front of the movable frame 11 , which removes the weight off the tag chain 66 , the roller chain frame 60 , sprocket 12 and drive axle 14 .
- the roller chain frame 60 moves under the stationary shoe 23 thereby preventing the movable frame 11 from tipping or rolling off sideways. Furthermore, this prevents the roller chain frame 60 from lifting up to a point where the chain links could slip a tooth on the sprocket 12 and ensures that the movable frame cannot fall back off the slides 8 .
- This guide system of 58 , 8 and 16 maintains the movable frame in a straight line with the stationary frame 19 .
- the operator removes the wheels 56 at the front of the moveable frame 11 to prevent them from interfering with the vehicle tires 29 .
- FIGS. 9, 10 , 11 and 13 As the vehicle 13 has two essentially identical locking systems 10 mounted rearwardly, only one will be described in detail.
- the front-end portion 25 of the rail 58 contacts the sensing plate 32 and pivots the sensing plate 32 forwardly and downwardly.
- the sensing plate 32 rotates the shaft 40 against the spring tension of the main spring 38 .
- Rotation of the shaft 40 also pivots the arm 28 forwardly and downwardly.
- the groove 31 in the arm 28 pivots clear of the projection 103 on the arm 22 , thereby releasing the arm 22 .
- the sensing plate 32 continues to pivot downwardly, which in turn rotates the shaft thereby moving the arm 28 further forwardly and downward and increasing the tensioning of spring 38 .
- the arm 28 pivots forward and down with the tab 30 on the arm 28 pushing the tag chain 66 forward and off the teeth of the sprocket 12 .
- Methods other than the sensing plate 32 may be used to sense the frame 11 when loading or off-loading and to activate the locking plate 28 .
- This timing and activation may be accomplished electrically by the use of limit switches that sense a lower portion of the surface 92 of the rail 58 and in turn the limit switches may control the operation of an electric or mechanical solenoid or small gear motor that closes or opens locking plate 28 .
- the arm 22 is lifted by the forward sliding action of the roller chain frame 60 and movable shoe 26 rests on the top of the frame 60 as it moves forward. With the frame rail 58 still advancing, the rail 58 slides over the plate 32 and bearing 34 . The bearing 34 rolls along the bottom side 92 of rail 58 for the remainder of the operation.
- the tab 30 on the arm 28 holds the tag chain 66 forward and away from the sprocket 12 , while the frame rail 58 advances. This prevents the chain 66 from hanging or “welding” to the sprocket 12 . With the forward movement of the frame rail 58 , the tag chain 66 is moved forward and away from the tab 30 .
- slot 31 is so machined that when the movable shoe arm projection 103 is in a locked position with the locking arm slot 31 , there is a space between the chain 66 and arm 22 to prevent excessive wear.
- the process described above is essentially reversed.
- the main springs 36 and 38 urge the arm members 22 and 28 into a closed position when the loose tag chain 66 re-engages the sprocket 12 .
- the shoe 23 that is attached to the first end portion 101 of the support member 88 prevents the chain from skipping the teeth on the sprocket 12 .
- the stationary shoe 23 prevents body rollover when off-loading the movable frame 11 from the stationary frame 19 . In the fully opened position, the shoe 23 , and the arms 22 and 28 allow the chain 83 to move freely with the sprocket 12 .
- the tag chain 66 contacts the locking arm tab 30 .
- the roller chain frame 60 begins to slide from under the movable shoe 26 and arm 22 , and the movable shoe 26 and the arm 22 pivots down and contact the top of the tag chain 66 and tag chain 66 is pressured down against the tab 30 .
- the sensing plate 32 following the contour of the rail 58
- the tab 30 pivoting down and rearward and to the closed position allows the tag chain 66 to lay onto the teeth of the sprocket 12 .
- the tag chain 66 is urged on to the teeth of the sprocket 12 by the spring-tensioned arm 22 .
- the groove 31 of the spring-tensioned locking arm 28 pivots over projection 103 on the moveable arm 22 and the locking system is again closed and locked.
- the stationary shoe 23 is positioned such that at any angle of loading, the shoe 23 acts as a secondary hold for the movable frame 11 to the stationary frame 19 and thereby positively locks the roller chain 83 to the teeth of the sprocket 12 .
- the stationary shoe 23 also acts as a secondary hold of the tag chain 66 to the teeth of the sprocket 12 during lifting and lowering of the front end portion 25 of the movable frame.
- the tag chain 66 would still be secured by the stationary shoe 23 .
- the movable frame cross member 65 moves over the elevatable support 17 .
- the slide rail 44 With the rearward portion of the elevatable support 17 rotatably attached to the axle 14 , and if the forward portion of the UHMW 50 on top of slide rail 44 is too high for the slot 75 to clear, the slide rail 44 will be pushed, in turn pivoting the elevatable support 17 down by the slot 75 and by the weight of the movable frame 11 .
- a lift plate 87 enters the rearward disposed end of the channel 54 and alignment plate 73 slides over top of the slide rail 44 .
- the alignment plate 73 pushes on the slide rail 44 and the elevatable support 17 pivots further down. If the elevatable support 17 is low, the lift plate 87 slides along the inside top lip of the channel 54 and lifts and pivots the elevatable support 17 upwardly as the movable frame moves forward. The lift plate 87 slides along and under a tapered internal ramp 33 and lifts and pivots the elevatable support 17 higher. With the elevatable support 17 height finely adjusted, the rail 44 aligns with the receiver 72 . The movable frame 11 slides further forward and the front portion of the receiver 72 slides and interlocks over the rear disposed portion of the elevatable support rail 44 , which is coated with UHMW on both sides. With further forward movement of the movable frame 11 , the receiver 72 slides further forward over the rail 44 .
- the elevatable support guide system 59 along with the slot 75 , the lift plate 87 and the alignment plate 73 allow various lengths of frames to be loaded on the same stationary frame.
- the elevatable support 17 maintains this angle.
- the angle of loading changes.
- the elevatable support may be re-adjusted by the above components allowing this new receiver to align with the elevatable support with no manual labor required.
- the movable frame 11 is balanced above the rear block assembly slide 8 whereupon only the slides 8 on the rear block assemblies 80 are in contact with rails 58 .
- the receiver 72 is interlocked with the rail 44 and the movable frame rails 58 are straddling the rear portion of the stationary frame rails 16 .
- the weight is transferred from the rear wheel assemblies 56 to the elevatable support 17 .
- the elevatable support 17 allows the weight to drop down onto the stationary frame 19 in a controlled manner by the resistance of the hydraulic cylinder 46 , flow restrictors and valves.
- the movable frame 11 is eased down onto the stationary frame 19 with the movable frame rails 58 resting on top and straddling the rails 16 , thereby preventing lateral movement of the movable frame 11 when travelling ( FIG. 12 ).
- the tag chains 66 are pulled up onto the storage tracks 84 as the movable frame 11 continues forward.
- the storage area on top of the roller chain frame 60 is only used when the movable frame 11 is off the vehicle 13 .
- the storage track 84 may be omitted.
- the top of the roller chain frame 60 along with the side bar 79 on the movable frame 11 may be used in place of the storage track 84 .
- the side bar 79 makes a storage track for the tag chain 66 .
- the bar 79 moves through the stationary shoe groove 121 ( FIG. 13 ) when the movable frame 11 is loaded or off-loaded. This track may be necessary when loading and off-loading because when the movable frame 11 is moving on top of the stationary frame, the hanging tag chain 66 may catch, or hang up, on the vehicle suspension on parts of the chassis 9 . In loading the operator may be required to manually place the tag chain 66 into the storage track roller chain frame 60 .
- the tag chain 66 may be removed from the top of the roller chain frame 60 by the movable shoe 26 .
- the shoe 26 pushes the tag chain 66 off of the roller chain frame 60 as the movable frame moves in rearward direction.
- the stop plates 68 prevent the movable frame from being pushed forward into the cab of the vehicle 13 .
- the stationary shoes 23 , the movable shoe arms 22 , the rear upper tie down brackets 85 and the rear lower tie down brackets 86 , the receiver 72 and the elevatable supports 17 are so configured that they prevent the movable frame stop plates 68 from lifting over the stop plates 81 in an accident.
- the manual locking mechanism 82 is used to lock the movable frame 11 in the loaded position. Moving the handle 89 into the locked position causes the pins 71 and 78 to move into the locking pin holes in the movable frame 11 .
- the movable frame 11 may have fender components that hang lower and in front of the rear vehicle tires 29 .
- the ramp system for on and off-loading of a fender body comprises a pair of lower fender slide frames 95 , a pair of slide posts 69 and a pair of roller posts 91 that are located on the movable frame 11 .
- a pair of ramps 90 are correspondingly located on the frame 19 .
- the frame components protect the fenders 99 of the box 105 of the movable frame 11 when loading and off-loading.
- fender bodies for example, a standard fleet slide or step side pickup box body, a utility box body, catering truck bodies, motor home bodies and passenger bodies to name only a few.
- the lower fender slide frames 95 protect the fenders 99 of the body.
- the fender slide frames 95 is slightly lower than the fenders 99 .
- the slide frame 95 is supported and attached to the movable frame cross members 115 and the cross members 77 .
- the lower fender frames 95 shown, work as a slide system that slides across the top of the rear tire 29 when loading or off-loading.
- the balance point of the movable frame 11 at the time of loading or off-loading determines if the slides 95 contact with the tires 29 .
- the slide posts 69 slide up or down the topside of the rearward angled portion of the ramps 90 .
- the slide posts 69 are shorter than the roller posts 91 located forward therefrom on the frame 11 .
- the bottom end of the shorter slide posts 69 is high enough to contact the top side of the sloped rear section of the ramps 90 when the frames 95 are sliding forward on the tires 29 .
- the front portion 25 and the roller posts 91 of the frame 11 are raised as the slide posts 69 slides forward and up the ramps 90 .
- the longer roller posts 91 are raised to a position where they contact the top sides of the sloped rear sections of the ramps 90 .
- the short slide posts 69 allow the most rearward end of the sloped section of ramps 90 to be high above the tires 29 allowing necessary clearance from tires 29 to ramps 90 .
- roller posts 91 lifts the frame 11 high enough so as to maintain necessary clearance between the front of the wheel wells 98 and the tires 29 .
- the setting of the controls of the hydraulic cylinder 46 , plus the vehicle chassis suspension, slide post 69 may or may not be used.
- the slide posts 69 carry the movable frame 11 when the roller posts 91 roll off of the sloped rear section end of the ramps 90 to a point where either gravity tilts the movable frame 11 up or the frames 95 contacts the tires 29 .
- the slide posts 69 could also be equipped with rollers.
- the roller posts 91 carry the movable frame 11 as it rolls up and down the ramps 90 during loading or off-loading.
- the roller posts 91 carry the load weight at different times depending upon the weight, balance point and speed at which the frame 11 is on or off-loading, the setting of the controls of the hydraulic cylinder 46 , plus the vehicle chassis suspension.
- the slide post 69 and the lower fenders' slide frames 95 may be eliminated, providing the design of the vehicle chassis 9 is such that adequate clearance is maintained between the top of the tires 29 and the ramps 90 when the vehicle is loaded and in motion.
- the balance point is such that the roller posts 91 would be positioned over the ramps 90 when the center of gravity of the fender body 105 is moved over the rear block assembly slide 8 .
- the roller posts 91 come into contact, rolling rearward and upward on the top side of the front angled portion of the ramps 90 , thus lifting the front portion 25 of the movable frame 11 .
- the rearward portion 27 of the rails 58 slide and pivot on the rear block assembly slides 8 .
- the movable frame 11 and the receiver 72 lift the elevatable support 17 up as the receiver 72 slides along the slide rail 44 .
- the front of fender walls 98 clear the top of the tires 29 and the roller posts roll along the horizontal section of the ramps 90 .
- the roller posts 91 roll rearward and down the rear portion of the ramps 90 .
- the shorter slide posts 69 contacts the ramps 90 and as the movable frame 11 is moved rearward the slide posts 69 slides rearward and down the ramps 90 .
- the front-end portion 25 of the movable frame 11 continues moving rearward and down, the lower fender slide frames 95 contacts the top of the tires 29 .
- the weight of the front end portion 25 of the movable frame 11 is removed from the slide posts 69 and ramps 90 to the lower fender slide frames 95 and the top of the rear tires 29 .
- the receiver interlocked with the elevatable support rail 44 the tilting action lifts the elevatable slide support.
- the speed of lift action is controlled by the scissor arms 15 and 37 , the hydraulic cylinder 46 and its associated hydraulic flow controls and valves.
- the movable frame 11 tilting action occurs at the time the point of balance of the movable frame 11 slides over the rear block assembly slides 8 .
- the tilting action timing varies depending on the distribution of the payload weight of the movable frame 11 .
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Transportation (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Fittings On The Vehicle Exterior For Carrying Loads, And Devices For Holding Or Mounting Articles (AREA)
- Power-Operated Mechanisms For Wings (AREA)
- Body Structure For Vehicles (AREA)
- Vehicle Waterproofing, Decoration, And Sanitation Devices (AREA)
- Dowels (AREA)
- Vehicle Step Arrangements And Article Storage (AREA)
- Motor Or Generator Frames (AREA)
- Loading Or Unloading Of Vehicles (AREA)
Abstract
A loading apparatus for a vehicle, the apparatus having a first frame, a second frame having a chain mounted thereupon; and a locking system that is mounted on the first frame. The locking system has a drive wheel, a first arm member and a second arm member. The system is configured such that in a generally closed position, the chain engages the drive wheel in a first position, the drive wheel is connected to the arms; the arms are urged into the closed position. In a generally open position, the chain engages the drive wheel in a second position and the arms are urged into the open position by the second frame.
Description
- The present application is a division of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/493,478, filed Jan. 28, 2000, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates to devices for loading and unloading containers and more particularly, to a chain locking mechanism for safely loading a movable frame onto a stationary vehicle.
- 2. Description of Related Art
- A conventional cab and chassis vehicle when used to transport loads usually comprises a frame and a device for pulling a movable frame from the ground up and over onto the vehicles' stationary frame, and guiding the frame into the loaded position. During normal usage, the movable frame supports a load which is transferred from the ground to the vehicle chassis via an arrangement of elevating booms and guide systems that are controlled by an operator. This simple approach has many limitations and there are many patents disclosing devices that simplify the procedure and/or improve the safety aspects of such a maneuver.
- U.S. Pat. No. 1,794,318 (Perkins et al.) discloses a dumping body frame truck that is driven by a chain drive. The body is formed by telescopic sections that are collapsed to dump a load. While the sections are designed to slide along the chassis body, there is no bed that is removable from the chassis.
- U.S. Pat. No. 2,811,269 (Anderson) discloses a removable bed that relies on a winch assembly to draw the truck body onto the chassis.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,203,788 (Marmur) discloses an apparatus for loading a container onto a truck body or trailer. This arrangement discloses the use of a pivoting arm and a cable to move the trailer.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,269,746 (Zoromski) discloses a container loading and unloading system that is particularly suited for loading campers and cargo boxes onto a truck bed. The system appears to be independent of the vehicle except for a yoke and pivot bar structure that is attached to the rear bumper.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,856,869 (Slokum et al.) discloses a removable load bed that includes a tiltable bed that is operated by a piston to control loading and unloading of the container. The system relies on a cable and bracket system to move the container. While the tiltable bed and interlocking bracket and cavity aspect of this patent appear to address deficiencies that are present in the previously described patents, it still suffers from the potential that the cable may come off the bracket, and therefore, could potentially be a safety hazard.
- The frames of common conventional loading devices are generally similar in size and construction, and thus many of the loads that are to be used with such a frame arrangement tend to rely on a smooth and easy transfer from the ground to the truck bed. It is often difficult to maintain adequate control of this maneuver, and thus inadvertent lateral movement and slippage of the pulling mechanism can occur, especially during the initial lifting procedure.
- Thus, there is a need for a removable load bed assembly for use with a conventional cab and chassis vehicle that provides a safe method of transferring a load from the ground onto the chassis of the vehicle. This patent should not be limited to this only. Other examples are military track and rubber tired vehicles that could have the bodies changed from a gun carrier to personal carrier to an ambulance body. This system will lift any load from one level to another.
- The invention reduces the difficulties and disadvantages of the prior art by providing a guide system, a simple chain locking assembly and a device to control tilting action which can be retrofitted to most conventional truck chassis at relatively low cost. The device provides a secure and simple means for loading a load onto a truck, thus reducing relative movement therebetween.
- The invention provides a loading apparatus for a vehicle, the apparatus comprising:
- a first frame;
- a second frame having a chain mounted thereupon; and
- a locking system mounted on the first frame, the system having a drive wheel, a first arm member and a second arm member, the system being configured such that:
- in a generally closed position, the chain engages the drive wheel in a first position, the drive wheel being connected to the arms; the arms being urged into the closed position; and in a generally open position, the chain engages the drive wheel in a second position, the arms being urged into the open position by the second frame.
- In another aspect, the invention provides:
- a third arm member;
- a stationary support member fixably mounted on the drive wheel, the support member having a first end portion and a second end portion; and
- a compressing member mounted on the support, the compressing member being attached to the arms, the arms being urged towards each other in the closed position
- wherein the first arm member and the second arm member interlock with each other in the closed position.
- In another aspect the invention provides the first arm member having a projection extending outwardly therefrom, the arm member having a first end portion and a second end portion, the first end portion being urged towards the chain, the second end portion being pivotally attached to the first end portion of the support; the second arm member having a first end portion and a second end portion, the first end portion being urged towards the chain, the second end portion being pivotally attached to the second end portion of the support member; and the third arm member having a first end portion and a second end portion, the first end portion, the second end portion being pivotally attached to the second end portion of the support member. The third arm member has a groove disposed therein, the groove being shaped to cooperate with the projection on the first arm member.
- In yet another aspect, the invention provides the first frame further comprising: a front end portion and a rear end portion, the frame being mounted on a vehicle chassis, a prime mover mounted on the chassis; and an axle connected to the drive wheel to alternatively move the drive wheel in a first and a second direction.
- In another aspect the invention provides a loading frame comprising: the first frame as claimed as described above; an actuator; and an elevatable support to receive a load from the second frame and connected to the actuator. The loading frame further including: a guide system having a central rail shaped to cooperate with the second frame. The rail has a slidably resilient material fixably mounted thereupon.
- In another aspect, the invention provides the second frame further having: a plurality of wheels such that the second frame is movable relative to the first frame; a first rail, a second rail and a central rail, the central rail being shaped so as to cooperate with the central rail on the first frame.
- In yet another aspect, the invention provides the second frame having a front end portion and a rear end portion, the front end portion being disposed towards the rear end portion of first frame.
- In drawings which illustrate embodiments of the invention,
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FIG. 1 is a side view of a first embodiment of the invention showing a movable frame engaging a stationary frame on a vehicle via a chain; -
FIG. 2 is a top view of the vehicle showing the stationary frame attached to the vehicle; -
FIG. 3 is a rear end view of the rear block assemblies mounted on the rear of the vehicle; -
FIG. 4 is a simplified side view of the first embodiment showing the relationship between a rear block assembly and a frame rail; -
FIG. 5 is a simplified view of the locking pin assembly; -
FIG. 6 is a side view of the moveable frame; -
FIG. 7 is a top view of the movable frame; -
FIG. 8 is a simplified side view of the chain detail attached to the movable frame; -
FIG. 9 is a simplified side view of the first embodiment in a locked position engaging the chain; -
FIG. 10 is a simplified view of the first embodiment in a partially open position showing the frame engaging the locking system; -
FIG. 11 is a simplified side view of the first embodiment in a fully open position; -
FIG. 12 is a simplified end-on view of the moveable frame loaded on the stationary frame showing the interlocking of the rail systems; -
FIG. 13 is a schematic rear view of the first embodiment; -
FIG. 14 is a front end view of the moveable frame; -
FIG. 15 is a simplified view of the internal ramp and lift tab; -
FIG. 16 is a schematic view of the stationary shoe showing shape; -
FIG. 17 is a side view of the front end of the moveable frame; -
FIG. 18 is a detailed side view of the stationary frame; -
FIG. 19 is a detailed view of the elevatable support; -
FIG. 20 is a detailed top view of the front of the moveable frame rail; and -
FIG. 21 is a cut away side view of the movable frame shown inFIG. 7 , balanced on the stationary frame shown inFIG. 2 . - Referring to
FIGS. 1 and 2 , an apparatus according to a first embodiment of the invention is shown generally at 10 and connects amovable frame 11 to a conventional cab andchassis vehicle 13 via achain 66, theframe 11 having aload 100 securely mounted thereupon. Thevehicle 13 has achassis 9 and astationary frame 19 securely mounted thereupon. Thestationary frame 19 is a “skeleton body” and is secured to thechassis 9 by conventional means, and is arranged such that a front end of the frame is disposed towards the rear of the cab of thevehicle 13 and a rear end portion is disposed towards a rear end portion of thechassis 9. - The
stationary frame 19 has a guide system mounted on thechassis 9 of thevehicle 13 and comprises a “skeleton-type” arrangement ofrails 16. Therails 16 are positioned parallel to each other along the side of thechassis 9 and are shaped so as to allow efficient sliding and seating of themoveable frame 11 during loading and are coated with an ultra-high molecular weight (UHMW)polymer 20. One skilled in the art will understand that polymers of this type act as a lubricant to assist themoveable frame 11 as it slides over thestationary frame 19, as will be described below. It will be understood that there are many different types of polymeric coatings used in this type of operation. - Referring to
FIGS. 1, 2 , 3, 12 and 18, anelevatable support 17 is centrally and rotatably attached to anaxle 14 and includes a “skeleton framework” 61 having aseparate guide system 59 consisting of a forwardly disposed end and a rearwardly disposed end. Theguide system 59 consists of a C-shapedchannel 54 with aninternal ramp 33, and aslide rail 44. Theslide rail 44 is covered withUHMW 50 on upper and lower faces. Theskeleton framework 61 has two ends and a center that is parallel to theaxle 14. Theskeleton framework 61 ends are rotatably attached to theaxle 14 by a pair ofbushings 106. The position ofskeleton framework 61 on theaxle 14 is maintained by a pair ofcylindrical spacers 107. Eachspacer 107 is positioned on theaxle 14 between theelevatable support bushings 106 and a pair ofouter axle bearings 108. Those skilled in the art will recognize that bearings of different types may be used in place of thebushings 106 andspacers 107. Theaxle 14 is rotatably mounted to thechassis 9 by thebearings 108 and abearing 122. Each bearing 108 is fixably attached to and located on theaxle 14 adjacent the twoend portions bearings 108 are fixably attached to each of thechassis 9 frame rails. Thebearing 122 is fixably attached and located in the center of theaxle 14 and is supported by thestationary frame 19. Theaxle 14 is driven by anelectric motor 94. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other types of motors may be used to implement aspects of the invention. Theaxle 14 has twoend portions first embodiment 10. Themotor 94 is attached to theaxle 14 by a keyed sprocket and anendless roller chain 104. The turning motion of theaxle 14 is transferred to a pair of keyedsprockets 12 that are mounted on the ends of theaxle 14. - The
guide system 59 is aligned parallel to and between the frame rails 16, and is fixably attached to theframework 61 such that amovable frame receiver 72 aligns and interlocks with theslide rail 44 when theframe 11 is mounted onstationary frame 19, as will be described. The bottom edge of the rearwardly disposed section of theguide system 59 is fixably attached to the top edge of the center portion of theskeleton framework 61. A pair of support frame members, 111 and 112, are attached to theguide system 59, and each having first and second ends. The first end top edges of the support members, 111 and 112, are fixably attached to the bottom edge of the forwardly disposed end ofguide system 59, whereas the second ends are fixably attached to the corresponding ends of theskeleton framework 61. The support members, 111 and 112, support the forwardly disposed end ofguide system 59, thereby ensuring theguide system 59 remains parallel with the frame rails 58 on themoveable frame 11. The top and bottom surfaces of therail 44 are covered withUHMW 50. - As best seen in
FIGS. 1, 2 , 3 and 19, ahydraulic cylinder 46 is attached to thestationary frame 19 and is moved by a pair of arms, 15 and 37, that are pivotally attached to theframe 19, across member 53 and the forwardly disposed end of theguide system 59. Thehydraulic cylinder 46 acts as a shock absorber during on-loading and off-loading and also allows an operator to stop the tilting motion of themoveable frame 11 at any time thereby giving the system a greater degree of control during operation. It will be understood that other “damping” systems may be used with theelevatable support 17. - Also, those skilled in the art will recognize that the
elevatable support 17 does not requirearms hydraulic cylinder 46. Another possible method would be to use a longer cylinder thereby avoiding the use of the arms, 15 and 37. - As best seen in
FIG. 21 , theelevatable support 17 is pivotally attached to theaxle 14 that is positioned at the rear end of thevehicle 13. Themovable frame rail 58 pivots when loading or offloading on the surface of aslide 8 with the center of the circumference of theaxle 14 being the center of the arc of the slide 8 (seeFIG. 4 ). This creates a common pivot point for both thereceiver 72 on themovable frame 11 and theelevatable support 17 thereby ensuring both alignment and non-binding movement between theelevatable support 17 and the receiver 72 (seeFIG. 6 ) prior to interlocking and when interlocked. As best illustrated inFIGS. 2 and 19 , a pair ofsprings 43 assist in lifting and holding theelevatable support 17 up by exerting a twisting force on ahinge pin 47 that is fixably attached to thearm 15. The outer coils of thesprings 43 are attached to abar 64 that is attached to thearm 37. This twisting action assists in opening the arms, 15 and 37, with thehinge pin 47 as the center axis. The lifting and maintaining of theelevatable support 17 vertical position may be accomplished by placing the springs in other areas, for example, over thecylinder 46 or to theframe 19 and lifting under the arms, 15 and 37, below thehinge pin 47. Those skilled in the art will recognize other means of assisting the lift and holding the elevatable support. - Also, those skilled in the art will recognize that the
elevatable support 17 does not requirearms hydraulic cylinder 46. Another possible method would be to use a longer cylinder thereby avoiding the use of the arms, 15 and 37. - As seen in
FIGS. 2, 3 and 4, theframe 19 has a pair ofrear block assemblies 80 generally located at the rear end of the frame rails 16 of thevehicle 13 and fixably attached to thechassis 9. Eachrear block assembly 80 consists of aslide arrangement 8 that is designed to evenly distribute the load of themovable frame 11 during loading and unloading, and to distribute the overall weight of the loaded moving frame away from thesprockets 12 during the loading and unloading process. As best seen inFIGS. 3 and 4 , theaxle 14, thesprocket 12, theelevatable support 17 and theslide arrangement 8 are co-axially arranged, ensuring the vertical alignment of theelevatable support rail 44 with the receiver 72 (FIG. 12 ) while theslides 8, rails 16 and the frame rails 58 assume lateral alignment. - At the front end of the stationary frame is a locking
pin assembly 82. As best seen inFIG. 5 , theassembly 82 provides a manual positive lock system when themovable frame 11 is fully loaded on thestationary frame 19 and is a safety feature that prevents movement of themovable frame 11 into the cab of the vehicle during an accident. Arod 74, is attached to afirst locking pin 71 andsecond locking pin 78, adjacent ahandle 89. Thefirst pin 71 is moveable in the same direction as therod 74. Thesecond pin 78 is positioned away from thehandle 89 and is attached to afulcrum plate 76 which reverses the direction of therod 74 during operation. As the rod moves in a first direction, thefirst pin 71 moves in the same direction, whereas thepin 78 moves in a second direction. - As best seen in
FIGS. 3, 4 and 6, a pair ofstop plates 81 in therear block assembly 80, act as collision impact buffers to prevent themovable frame 11 from damaging the vehicle body when a movableframe stop plate 67 abuts thestop plate 81. Furthermore, thestop plates movable frame 11 on theframe 19 and also allows for precise alignment of the locking pin assembly 82 (seeFIGS. 4, 5 and 12) on theframe 19 with a plurality of lock pin holes (not shown) on themovable frame 11.Slide 8 on therear block assembly 80 are coated with theUHMW 45 that acts as a lubricant to assist the movable frame as it slides over therear block 80. - The rear block
assembly stop plates 81 are positioned rearward of theaxle 14 yet forward of the most rearward teeth of thesprocket 12. As seen inFIGS. 1, 7 , 8 and 17, this allows across member 65 and afront portion 25 of therail 58 to be unobstructed by thestop plate 81 when lifting or loweringmoveable frame 11 whentag chains 66 and orlinks 62 are engaged on teeth of thesprockets 12. - With the
moveable frame 11 tilting backward, the front of thereceiver 72 tilts up, and with thereceiver 72 and theslide rail 44 interlocked, theelevatable support 17 also moves up. Theelevatable support 17 in turn pulls on thearms 15 by anarm pin 48. In turn, thearm 15 pulls on thehinge pin 47 in turn pulling thelower arm 37 up with the lower end of thearms 37 connected to the subframe cross member 1 with ahinge pin 49. Thearms hinge pin 47. This action extends thehydraulic cylinder 46 as theram 41 is connected to thearm 15 through theupper cylinder pin 39 and the barrel of thecylinder 42 is connected tolower arm 37 by alower cylinder pin 51. An operator can allow themoveable frame 11 to tilt without further forward and rearward movement ifframe 11 is in an unbalanced condition. - Referring now to
FIGS. 1, 6 , 7, 12 and 14, themovable frame 11 comprises a “skeleton body” type frame with a pair oflongitudinal rails 58 which act as slides so as to guide therails 16 on theframe 19. Disposed between, and parallel to, therails 58 is thereceiver 72 which is positioned across the under side of a plurality ofcross members 77 and along a portion of theframe 11 length. Mounted to the frame is theload 100 and a set ofremovable wheels 56 to allow movement. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other means for moving theframe 11 are available to implement aspects of the invention, for example, skid plates. Themovable frame 11 has afront end portion 25 and arear end portion 27. Thefront end portion 25 is disposed toward the rear of thestationary frame 19 during initial maneuvering. Theload 100 is attached to theframe 11 with thefront portion 25 of thebox 100 positioned rearward of thefront portion 25 of theframe 11. This positioning allows themovable frame 11, when on or off-loading, to be lifted or lowered without thebox 100 contacting thetag chains 66 or thesprockets 12. - As best illustrated in
FIGS. 1, 6 , 8, 17, 20 and 21, theframe 11 has atag chain 66 that is attached to aroller chain 83. Theroller chain 83 is fixably attached to aroller chain frame 60, which in turn is fixably mounted to theframe 11. With the movable frame resting on level ground, the vertical distance between the bottom face of the portion ofrail 58 that slides on the top ofslide 8 and the bottom of the roller on theroller chain 83 is equivalent to the distance between the radiuses of theslide 8 and bottom of valleys, between the teeth, ofsprocket 12. These equivalent measurements allow the frame rail to slide over theslide 8 and therail 58 support the heavier loads. Thecurved nose 123 of the front portion of therail 58 that slides overslide 8 is curved to allow therail 58 to slide overslide 8 when initially loading a heavily loadedframe 11. Afirst link 62 of thechain 83 is positionedadjacent lips 52 that are supported on theframe 11. Thelips 52 forwardly protrude from theroller chain frame 60 and over the top of the side plates of thelink 62 and prevent the over stressing of the side plates. This reduces the possibility that the side plates may break during the lifting or lowering of thefront portion 25 of theframe 11. One skilled in the art will recognize that the side plates are not designed forexcessive force 90 degrees to the chain side plate. Thetag chain 66 has anunattached end portion 63 that enables an operator to guide thetag chain 66 onto thesprockets 12 of theframe 19. Thesprockets 12 are positioned such that theunattached end portion 63 of thechain 66 can be engaged on the sprockets without hindrance from other components. When thesprockets 12 are turned by theaxle 14, thetag chain 66 is pulled tight in the direction of the wheels' rotation and serves to pull the loadedframe 11 toward and up onto thefirst frame 19. When not in use, thetag chains 66 are pivoted up and back on to the top ofroller chain frame 60. This advantageously protects the chain from damage. There is acorresponding storage track 84 on theframe 19 which also acts as a housing for thetag chain 66 when theframe 19 is fully loaded with themovable frame 11. - Referring now to
FIGS. 2, 3 , 7, 14 and 17, a plurality of disposed tie-down brackets 85 on theframe 19 permit locking of themovable frame 11 to theframe 19 in the final loaded position. Disposed towards each of the four corners of themovable frame 11, the tie-down brackets 85 lock themovable frame 11 to theframe 19 to prevent vertical movement of the movable frame during motion of the vehicle over uneven ground. Themovable frame 11 has a plurality of tie-down brackets 86 that cooperate with the tie-down brackets 85 on theframe 19. The forwardly disposed frame brackets, 85 and 86, are positioned lower than the rearwardly disposed frame brackets, 85 and 86, to allow the forwardlydisposed frame brackets 86 on themovable frame 11 to slide under the rearwardly disposedbrackets 85 of theframe 19 during the initial loading. In the final loaded stage, thebrackets 86 are positioned directly under the correspondingstationary frame brackets 85. Advantageously, the brackets eliminate excessive noise betweenframe 11 andframe 19 when the vehicle is operating and also has the safety advantage of preventing a roll over of themovable frame 11 when loaded on theframe 19. - The
movable frame 11 haswheels 56 on theframe 11 so thatframe 11 can be moved relative to thestationary frame 19 prior to engagement. Thewheels 56 are removable when the wheels are off the ground. Thewheels 56 are removed by removing thehitch pin 113 from pin hole (not shown) in thewheel support tubing 114 and allowing the shaft offront wheel frame 57 to drop down out of the movable framewheel support tubing 114, then replacinghitch pin 113 in pin hole. Thevehicle 13 may be maneuvered to align to the moveable frame, such that if thewheels 56 are used on the rear of themovable frame 11, they are aligned such that they track straight and parallel to the lines of the movable frame rails 58. This wheel alignment encourages themovable frame 11 to remain in alignment with theframe 19 when loading and off-loading. - Referring now to
FIGS. 1, 9 , 10, 11 and 13, a pair ofchain locking systems 10 are rearwardly mounted on theframe 19 and adjacent the rear wheel of the vehicle as each of thechain locking systems 10 comprises asprocket 12, amovable shoe arm 22, amovable shoe 26, asensing plate 32, a lockingarm 28, asupport member 88 and a pair ofmain springs attachment bracket 93,slot 120,bolt 110,spring tensioning plate 35 andpin 119. Thesupport member 88 has afirst end portion 101 and asecond end portion 102 and is fixably attached byattachment bracket 93 to thechassis frame 9. The first end portion has aslot 120 best seen onFIG. 13 . Fixably attached to thefirst end portion 101 by abolt 110 is the adjustablespring tensioning plate 35 and fixably attached to the spring tensioning plate is apin 119. Thepin 119 has two ends and each end projects from the sidespring tensioning plate 35. The first end has a slot in the pin that thespring 36 is fixably attached to and the second end is positioned as a pivot for thearm 22 witharm 22 positioned inslot 120. The center portion of thesupport member 88 is abushing 109 that encases the circumference of theaxle 14 adjacent the outer end. Thesupport member 88 allowsaxle 14 to rotate inside thebushing 109 additionally supporting theaxle 14 by thechassis 9 when thefront end portion 25 of the movable frame is being lifted during initial loading. - The
support member 88 allows theaxle 14 to rigidly support astationary shoe 23. Should themovable frame 11 rise, theroller chain frame 60 will rise up to thestationary shoe 23 thereby keeping thechain 83 engaged with thesprocket teeth 12. Thestationary shoe 23 is advantageously placed and shaped so that it maintains thetag chain 66 or theroller chain 83 on the sprocket. Referring toFIG. 16 , thestationary shoe 23 is positioned at an imaginary intersection point that is defined by the tangential angle of contact between the movable frame and the sprocket. This exact placement allows themovable frame 11 to maintain a maximum angle during loading, as shown by a pair oftangent lines stationary shoe 23 is also shaped so that it follows these tangent lines and this allows themovable frame 11 to rotate through all desired angles on the sprocket. In all cases, thestationary shoe 23 prevents thetag chain 66 and theroller chain 83 from skipping off of the teeth on thesprocket 12 by allowing minimum clearance between thestationary shoe 23 and thesprocket 12. Thestationary shoe 23, with the combined strength of theaxle 14 and thesupport 88, theframe 11 and aframe attachment bracket 93, prevents themovable frame 11 from rolling sideways off the vehicle should the other safeties fail. - Referring now to
FIG. 13 , the sensing/locking arm shaft 40 is rotatably mounted on thesecond end portion 102 of thesupport member 88. The lockingarm 28, thesensing plate 32 and themain spring 38 are co-axially and fixably attached to theshaft 40. Those skilled in the art will recognize that thesensing plate 32 and lockingarm 28 could be manufactured from a single plate. The outer coil end ofspring 38 is fixably attached to anattachment bracket 93. Themovable shoe arm 22 has a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion of theshoe arm 22 is urged towards the chain and the second end portion is pivotally attached to the first end portion inslot 120 of thesupport 88 by thepin 119. - Referring now to
FIGS. 9, 10 and 11, themoveable shoe arm 22 has aprojection 103 that extends outwardly therefrom. Themovable shoe 22 has asecond projection 118 and fixably attached to this projection is the outer coil of thespring 36. The lockingarm 28 has a first end portion and a second end portion, the second end portion being fixably attached to the first end portion of the shaft 40 (FIG. 13 ). Furthermore, the lockingarm 28 has agroove 31 that is machined into the body. Thegroove 31 is shaped so that when theshoe 22 and thearm 28 are sprung into a closed position, thegroove 31 co-operates closely with theprojection 103 on theshoe arm 22. Thearm 28 also has atab 30 that is shaped such that it pusheschain 66 off of thesprocket 12. Thetab 30 also redirects thechain 66 back onto the teeth of thesprocket 12. Thesensing plate 32 has a first end portion and second end portion. The first end portion of theplate 32 has abearing 34 attached thereto and is urged upwards against the bottom side 92 (FIG. 11 ) of the movable frame rails 58. The second end portion of theplate 32 is fixably attached to the center portion of the sensing/locking plate shaft 40. - The
movable shoe 22 spring tensioning can be adjusted by turning thebolt 110 to loosen thespring tensioning plate 35 and then swiveling the plate which in turn turns the center of themain spring 36. Afront release fork 24 prevents thetag chain 66 from wrapping around thesprocket 12 during the initial chain engagement. A rearchain release fork 18 prevents thetag chain 66 from wrapping around thesprocket 12 after themovable frame 11 is lowered to the ground but before thesprockets 12 allow the tag chain ends to drop to the ground. - Referring to
FIGS. 3, 4 and 7, during final engagement of themovable frame 11 with theframe 19, a pair ofstop plates 68 at therear end portion 27 of themoveable frame 11 abuts a pair ofstop plates 81 in therear block assembly 80. Advantageously, thestop plate face 68 is also covered withUHMW 67 to prevent the rubbing noise of metal on metal when the vehicle is moving. - Operation
- With reference to
FIGS. 1, 8 and 9, the operation of the first embodiment will now be described. With themovable frame 11 positioned on the ground the operator may back thevehicle 13 up to themovable frame 11. Thetag chain 66 is placed onto thesprocket 12. Thetag chains 66 are aligned to the rear of thestationary shoe 23 so as to line theend portion 63 of the chains in the same clock position on thesprockets 12. The operator activates themotor 94 from an electrical control box (not shown) which releases an integral motor brake and begins rotation of theaxle 14. - As the sprockets turn, the
tag chain 66 tightens and the front-end portion 25 of themovable frame 11 begins lifting off of the ground. At this point, the weight of themovable frame 11 is distributed between both of therear wheel assemblies 56, the ground, the twotag chains 66 and thesprockets 12. The tag chain lifting force is transferred 90 degrees to thefirst link 62 of theroller chain 83. Eachsprocket 12 has about 180° of contact with thetag chain 66. This is sufficient contact to allow safe lifting or lowering of themovable frame 11. At this stage, thefront release fork 24 prevents thetag chain 66 from wrapping around thesprocket 12. - The
chain 66 begins lifting the weight of themovable frame 11. The tag chain/locking process remains in place until the weight of the loadedmovable frame 11 is supported by the rearblock assembly slide 8. This advantageously eliminates the opportunity of thetag chain 66 slipping off thesprocket 12 and dropping the loadedmovable frame 11. Thetag chains 66 are prevented from working off thesprockets 12 by themovable shoes 26 that are positioned directly above thesprocket 12 and are held in position by the lockingarms 28. The chain locking mechanism is a positive tag chain-to-sprocket locking device that reduces or essentially eliminates the possibility of thetag chain 66 being pulled off thesprockets 12 when the lockingarm 28 is in position. - Referring to
FIGS. 2, 7 , 8, 9 and 10, during the mounting phase of the operation, themovable frame 11 continues being pulled up and forward towards theframe 19 with twotag chains 66 and two roller chain links 62 now in contact withsprockets 12. The twoframe rails 58 begin to slide over theslides 8. The frame rails 58 andslide 8 take the weight of the front of themovable frame 11, which removes the weight off thetag chain 66, theroller chain frame 60,sprocket 12 and driveaxle 14. - Advantageously, as the
movable frame 11 moves further forward, theroller chain frame 60 moves under thestationary shoe 23 thereby preventing themovable frame 11 from tipping or rolling off sideways. Furthermore, this prevents theroller chain frame 60 from lifting up to a point where the chain links could slip a tooth on thesprocket 12 and ensures that the movable frame cannot fall back off theslides 8. This guide system of 58, 8 and 16 maintains the movable frame in a straight line with thestationary frame 19. - At this stage, the operator removes the
wheels 56 at the front of themoveable frame 11 to prevent them from interfering with thevehicle tires 29. - Referring to
FIGS. 9, 10 , 11 and 13. As thevehicle 13 has two essentiallyidentical locking systems 10 mounted rearwardly, only one will be described in detail. - The front-
end portion 25 of therail 58 contacts thesensing plate 32 and pivots thesensing plate 32 forwardly and downwardly. Thesensing plate 32 rotates theshaft 40 against the spring tension of themain spring 38. Rotation of theshaft 40 also pivots thearm 28 forwardly and downwardly. Thegroove 31 in thearm 28 pivots clear of theprojection 103 on thearm 22, thereby releasing thearm 22. As themovable frame 11 continues advancing, thesensing plate 32 continues to pivot downwardly, which in turn rotates the shaft thereby moving thearm 28 further forwardly and downward and increasing the tensioning ofspring 38. Thearm 28 pivots forward and down with thetab 30 on thearm 28 pushing thetag chain 66 forward and off the teeth of thesprocket 12. - Methods other than the
sensing plate 32 may be used to sense theframe 11 when loading or off-loading and to activate the lockingplate 28. This timing and activation may be accomplished electrically by the use of limit switches that sense a lower portion of thesurface 92 of therail 58 and in turn the limit switches may control the operation of an electric or mechanical solenoid or small gear motor that closes or opens lockingplate 28. - As the
chain 66 is being pushed forward off thesprocket 12, thechain 66 contacts thearm 22 which is still in a closed position. The forward advancement of thechain 66 pushes themovable arm 22 forward and open, which overcomes the force of thespring 36. Thetab 30 of lockingarm 28 has now pushed thetag chain 66 forward and off the teeth ofsprocket 12 andtab 30 holds the chain forward and away from thesprocket 12, and in turn thechain 66 holdsarm 22 forward and up. With the front ofmovable frame rail 58 still moving forward, thearm 22 is lifted by theroller chain frame 60 on the side of theframe rail 58 as theroller chain frame 60 slides under thearm 22. Thearm 22 is lifted by the forward sliding action of theroller chain frame 60 andmovable shoe 26 rests on the top of theframe 60 as it moves forward. With theframe rail 58 still advancing, therail 58 slides over theplate 32 andbearing 34. The bearing 34 rolls along thebottom side 92 ofrail 58 for the remainder of the operation. - The
tab 30 on thearm 28 holds thetag chain 66 forward and away from thesprocket 12, while theframe rail 58 advances. This prevents thechain 66 from hanging or “welding” to thesprocket 12. With the forward movement of theframe rail 58, thetag chain 66 is moved forward and away from thetab 30. - Advantageously,
slot 31 is so machined that when the movableshoe arm projection 103 is in a locked position with the lockingarm slot 31, there is a space between thechain 66 andarm 22 to prevent excessive wear. - For operation of the
chain locking system 10 in reverse, the process described above is essentially reversed. During rearward movement of theframe 11, for example in the off-loading procedure, themain springs arm members loose tag chain 66 re-engages thesprocket 12. Theshoe 23 that is attached to thefirst end portion 101 of thesupport member 88 prevents the chain from skipping the teeth on thesprocket 12. Furthermore, thestationary shoe 23 prevents body rollover when off-loading themovable frame 11 from thestationary frame 19. In the fully opened position, theshoe 23, and thearms chain 83 to move freely with thesprocket 12. As themovable frame 11 moves rearward with thetag chain 66 approaching thesprocket 12, thetag chain 66 contacts thelocking arm tab 30. Theroller chain frame 60 begins to slide from under themovable shoe 26 andarm 22, and themovable shoe 26 and thearm 22 pivots down and contact the top of thetag chain 66 andtag chain 66 is pressured down against thetab 30. With thesensing plate 32 following the contour of therail 58, thetab 30 pivoting down and rearward and to the closed position allows thetag chain 66 to lay onto the teeth of thesprocket 12. Thetag chain 66 is urged on to the teeth of thesprocket 12 by the spring-tensionedarm 22. With thetag chain 66 engaging on thesprocket 12, thegroove 31 of the spring-tensionedlocking arm 28 pivots overprojection 103 on themoveable arm 22 and the locking system is again closed and locked. - The
stationary shoe 23 is positioned such that at any angle of loading, theshoe 23 acts as a secondary hold for themovable frame 11 to thestationary frame 19 and thereby positively locks theroller chain 83 to the teeth of thesprocket 12. Thestationary shoe 23 also acts as a secondary hold of thetag chain 66 to the teeth of thesprocket 12 during lifting and lowering of thefront end portion 25 of the movable frame. Advantageously, if thelocking system 10 were to fail or a load was loaded or off-loaded with the system unengaged, thetag chain 66 would still be secured by thestationary shoe 23. - Referring to
FIGS. 14, 17 , 18 and 19, with theframe 11 still moving forward and therear wheels 56 still on the ground, the movableframe cross member 65 moves over theelevatable support 17. With the rearward portion of theelevatable support 17 rotatably attached to theaxle 14, and if the forward portion of theUHMW 50 on top ofslide rail 44 is too high for theslot 75 to clear, theslide rail 44 will be pushed, in turn pivoting theelevatable support 17 down by theslot 75 and by the weight of themovable frame 11. Alift plate 87 enters the rearward disposed end of thechannel 54 andalignment plate 73 slides over top of theslide rail 44. If theslide rail 44 is still too high, thealignment plate 73 pushes on theslide rail 44 and theelevatable support 17 pivots further down. If theelevatable support 17 is low, thelift plate 87 slides along the inside top lip of thechannel 54 and lifts and pivots theelevatable support 17 upwardly as the movable frame moves forward. Thelift plate 87 slides along and under a taperedinternal ramp 33 and lifts and pivots theelevatable support 17 higher. With theelevatable support 17 height finely adjusted, therail 44 aligns with thereceiver 72. Themovable frame 11 slides further forward and the front portion of thereceiver 72 slides and interlocks over the rear disposed portion of theelevatable support rail 44, which is coated with UHMW on both sides. With further forward movement of themovable frame 11, thereceiver 72 slides further forward over therail 44. - The elevatable
support guide system 59 along with theslot 75, thelift plate 87 and thealignment plate 73 allow various lengths of frames to be loaded on the same stationary frame. When theframe 11 is off-loaded theelevatable support 17 maintains this angle. When a different length offrame 11 is on-loaded the angle of loading changes. The elevatable support may be re-adjusted by the above components allowing this new receiver to align with the elevatable support with no manual labor required. - As best seen in
FIG. 21 , themovable frame 11 is balanced above the rearblock assembly slide 8 whereupon only theslides 8 on therear block assemblies 80 are in contact with rails 58. Thereceiver 72 is interlocked with therail 44 and the movable frame rails 58 are straddling the rear portion of the stationary frame rails 16. As themovable frame 11 is moved forward so that the center of gravity and weight is passed over theslides 8, the weight is transferred from therear wheel assemblies 56 to theelevatable support 17. Theelevatable support 17 allows the weight to drop down onto thestationary frame 19 in a controlled manner by the resistance of thehydraulic cylinder 46, flow restrictors and valves. Themovable frame 11 is eased down onto thestationary frame 19 with the movable frame rails 58 resting on top and straddling therails 16, thereby preventing lateral movement of themovable frame 11 when travelling (FIG. 12 ). Thetag chains 66 are pulled up onto the storage tracks 84 as themovable frame 11 continues forward. The storage area on top of theroller chain frame 60 is only used when themovable frame 11 is off thevehicle 13. - One skilled in the art will understand that the
storage track 84 may be omitted. The top of theroller chain frame 60 along with theside bar 79 on themovable frame 11 may be used in place of thestorage track 84. Theside bar 79 makes a storage track for thetag chain 66. Thebar 79 moves through the stationary shoe groove 121 (FIG. 13 ) when themovable frame 11 is loaded or off-loaded. This track may be necessary when loading and off-loading because when themovable frame 11 is moving on top of the stationary frame, the hangingtag chain 66 may catch, or hang up, on the vehicle suspension on parts of thechassis 9. In loading the operator may be required to manually place thetag chain 66 into the storage trackroller chain frame 60. In off-loading, thetag chain 66 may be removed from the top of theroller chain frame 60 by themovable shoe 26. With themovable shoe 26 on the top ofroller chain frame 60 theshoe 26 pushes thetag chain 66 off of theroller chain frame 60 as the movable frame moves in rearward direction. - As best illustrated in
FIGS. 2, 5 , 6, 11, 12 and 21, thestop plates 68 prevent the movable frame from being pushed forward into the cab of thevehicle 13. Advantageously, thestationary shoes 23, themovable shoe arms 22, the rear upper tie downbrackets 85 and the rear lower tie downbrackets 86, thereceiver 72 and the elevatable supports 17, are so configured that they prevent the movableframe stop plates 68 from lifting over thestop plates 81 in an accident. Themanual locking mechanism 82 is used to lock themovable frame 11 in the loaded position. Moving thehandle 89 into the locked position causes thepins movable frame 11. - In order to remove the
movable frame 11 same procedure is used except that themotor 94 is activated in the reverse direction. - Referring to
FIGS. 2, 6 , 7, 14, 17 and 18, themovable frame 11, may have fender components that hang lower and in front of therear vehicle tires 29. The ramp system for on and off-loading of a fender body comprises a pair of lower fender slide frames 95, a pair of slide posts 69 and a pair of roller posts 91 that are located on themovable frame 11. A pair oframps 90 are correspondingly located on theframe 19. The frame components protect thefenders 99 of thebox 105 of themovable frame 11 when loading and off-loading. One skilled in the art will recognize that there are many types of fender bodies, for example, a standard fleet slide or step side pickup box body, a utility box body, catering truck bodies, motor home bodies and passenger bodies to name only a few. - The lower fender slide frames 95 protect the
fenders 99 of the body. The fender slide frames 95 is slightly lower than thefenders 99. Theslide frame 95 is supported and attached to the movableframe cross members 115 and thecross members 77. The lower fender frames 95 shown, work as a slide system that slides across the top of therear tire 29 when loading or off-loading. The balance point of themovable frame 11 at the time of loading or off-loading determines if theslides 95 contact with thetires 29. - The slide posts 69 slide up or down the topside of the rearward angled portion of the
ramps 90. The slide posts 69 are shorter than the roller posts 91 located forward therefrom on theframe 11. The bottom end of the shorter slide posts 69 is high enough to contact the top side of the sloped rear section of theramps 90 when theframes 95 are sliding forward on thetires 29. Thefront portion 25 and the roller posts 91 of theframe 11 are raised as the slide posts 69 slides forward and up theramps 90. The longer roller posts 91 are raised to a position where they contact the top sides of the sloped rear sections of theramps 90. - The short slide posts 69 allow the most rearward end of the sloped section of
ramps 90 to be high above thetires 29 allowing necessary clearance fromtires 29 toramps 90. - The longer roller posts 91 lifts the
frame 11 high enough so as to maintain necessary clearance between the front of thewheel wells 98 and thetires 29. Depending on the weight, the balance point and the speed at which theframe 11 is on or off-loading, the setting of the controls of thehydraulic cylinder 46, plus the vehicle chassis suspension, slidepost 69 may or may not be used. - For off-loading, the slide posts 69 carry the
movable frame 11 when the roller posts 91 roll off of the sloped rear section end of theramps 90 to a point where either gravity tilts themovable frame 11 up or theframes 95 contacts thetires 29. The slide posts 69 could also be equipped with rollers. - The roller posts 91 carry the
movable frame 11 as it rolls up and down theramps 90 during loading or off-loading. The roller posts 91 carry the load weight at different times depending upon the weight, balance point and speed at which theframe 11 is on or off-loading, the setting of the controls of thehydraulic cylinder 46, plus the vehicle chassis suspension. - By eliminating the rear sloped section of the
ramps 90 and extending the horizontal section of theramps 90 rearwardly away from the rear oftire 29, theslide post 69 and the lower fenders' slide frames 95 may be eliminated, providing the design of thevehicle chassis 9 is such that adequate clearance is maintained between the top of thetires 29 and theramps 90 when the vehicle is loaded and in motion. One skilled in the art would recognize that the balance point is such that the roller posts 91 would be positioned over theramps 90 when the center of gravity of thefender body 105 is moved over the rearblock assembly slide 8. - If the fully loaded
movable frame 11 begins to off-load, the roller posts 91 come into contact, rolling rearward and upward on the top side of the front angled portion of theramps 90, thus lifting thefront portion 25 of themovable frame 11. Therearward portion 27 of therails 58 slide and pivot on the rear block assembly slides 8. Themovable frame 11 and thereceiver 72 lift theelevatable support 17 up as thereceiver 72 slides along theslide rail 44. - Referring to
FIGS. 6, 17 and 18 with thefront portion 25 of themovable frame 11 moving up, the front offender walls 98 clear the top of thetires 29 and the roller posts roll along the horizontal section of theramps 90. The roller posts 91 roll rearward and down the rear portion of theramps 90. With the roller posts 91 rolling to the end of theramps 90 the shorter slide posts 69 contacts theramps 90 and as themovable frame 11 is moved rearward the slide posts 69 slides rearward and down theramps 90. The front-end portion 25 of themovable frame 11 continues moving rearward and down, the lower fender slide frames 95 contacts the top of thetires 29. The weight of thefront end portion 25 of themovable frame 11 is removed from the slide posts 69 and ramps 90 to the lower fender slide frames 95 and the top of therear tires 29. The frame sliding rearward with the weight of thefront portion end 25 of themovable frame 11 onrear tires 29 and the weight of therear end portion 27 ofmovable frame 11 on the rear block assembly slides 8 and with thereceiver 72 sliding on theelevatable support rail 44, the point of balance of the movable frame slides over the rear block assembly slides 8 and thefront end portion 25 of themovable frame 11 tilts upward and rearward. With the receiver interlocked with theelevatable support rail 44 the tilting action lifts the elevatable slide support. The speed of lift action is controlled by thescissor arms hydraulic cylinder 46 and its associated hydraulic flow controls and valves. Themovable frame 11 tilting action occurs at the time the point of balance of themovable frame 11 slides over the rear block assembly slides 8. The tilting action timing varies depending on the distribution of the payload weight of themovable frame 11. - In on-loading of the
moveable frame 11, the procedure is reversed.
Claims (7)
1. A loading apparatus for mounting a movable frame on a stationary frame, wherein;
there is an elevatable support member mounted on the stationary frame, the elevatable support member having a first end portion and a second end portion, the second end portion of the elevatable support being mounted to the stationary frame for pivotal movement with respect to the stationary frame about an elevatable support axis to provide an adjustable angle of the elevatable support; and
a lift action control mechanism mounted on the stationary frame cooperates with the elevatable support member to modulate movement of the elevatable support about the elevatable support axis;
characterized in that:
a drive is co-axially arranged with the elevatable support about the elevatable support axis; the drive is adapted for connection with the moveable frame, so that the drive may slidably move the moveable frame onto and off of the elevatable support and the stationary frame, while the lift action control mechanism permits the angle of the elevatable support to adapt about the elevatable support axis so that the elevatable support slidingly engages the movable frame.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein movement of the movable frame powered by the drive adapts the angle of the elevatable support so that the elevatable support slidingly engages the movable frame.
3. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the drive is a sprocket powered by an axle, and the elevatable support is rotatably attached to the axle.
4. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein there is an interconnection between the elevatable support and the moveable frame, during sliding movement of the movable frame, so that the movable frame adapts the angle of the elevatable support through the interconnection.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the drive is a sprocket powered by an axle, and the elevatable support is rotatably attached to the axle.
6. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 through 5, wherein the lift action control mechanism comprises a damping element to controllably resist the movement of the first end portion of the elevatable support member towards a raised position and to control movement of the first end portion of the elevatable support towards a lowered position.
7. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the damping element is powered to control the movement of the first end portion of the elevatable support member towards a raised position and to control movement of the first end portion of the elevatable support towards a lowered position.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US11/031,131 US20050118004A1 (en) | 2000-01-28 | 2005-01-05 | Removable load bed for a vehicle |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US09/493,478 US6857840B2 (en) | 2000-01-28 | 2000-01-28 | Removable load bed for a vehicle |
US11/031,131 US20050118004A1 (en) | 2000-01-28 | 2005-01-05 | Removable load bed for a vehicle |
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US09/493,478 Division US6857840B2 (en) | 2000-01-28 | 2000-01-28 | Removable load bed for a vehicle |
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US20050118004A1 true US20050118004A1 (en) | 2005-06-02 |
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US11/031,131 Abandoned US20050118004A1 (en) | 2000-01-28 | 2005-01-05 | Removable load bed for a vehicle |
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US09/493,478 Expired - Lifetime US6857840B2 (en) | 2000-01-28 | 2000-01-28 | Removable load bed for a vehicle |
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US20140093342A1 (en) * | 2012-10-02 | 2014-04-03 | Sonoco Development Incorporated | Trailer loading ramp |
US11404805B2 (en) | 2018-04-19 | 2022-08-02 | The Research Foundation For The State University Of New York | Solderless circuit connector |
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US7887281B2 (en) * | 2004-06-01 | 2011-02-15 | Marrell Haney | Transport vehicle with lifting devices |
US20080056873A1 (en) * | 2006-09-06 | 2008-03-06 | Miller Industries Towing Equipment, Inc. | Meshing wheel for transferring cargo |
US20090272953A1 (en) * | 2008-04-30 | 2009-11-05 | Roland Wolf | Lift apparatus |
US9919754B2 (en) * | 2008-08-07 | 2018-03-20 | T.C. Development & Design, Inc. | Loading ramp and trailer |
US20100086387A1 (en) * | 2008-10-02 | 2010-04-08 | Fought Scott C | Trash receptacle loading frame |
US9945753B2 (en) * | 2009-01-13 | 2018-04-17 | United Aeronautical Corp. | Cargo loading trailer |
US8727692B2 (en) * | 2010-08-27 | 2014-05-20 | Dana William Simpson | Removable platform and load bed for vehicles |
US8870517B2 (en) | 2011-12-08 | 2014-10-28 | Sean Jones | Container loading and unloading system |
EP3129246B1 (en) * | 2014-04-09 | 2018-06-20 | CNH Industrial Italia S.p.A. | Roll angle stop arrangement for a suspension system in an off-road vehicle |
CN111942256A (en) * | 2020-08-12 | 2020-11-17 | 上海凯速物流有限公司 | Logistics carriage capable of unloading goods automatically |
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- 2001-01-29 AU AU2001228241A patent/AU2001228241A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2001-01-29 EP EP01946819A patent/EP1252039B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-01-29 CA CA2434792A patent/CA2434792C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-01-29 AT AT01946819T patent/ATE393055T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2001-01-29 WO PCT/CA2001/000078 patent/WO2001054943A1/en active IP Right Grant
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Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US20140093342A1 (en) * | 2012-10-02 | 2014-04-03 | Sonoco Development Incorporated | Trailer loading ramp |
US11404805B2 (en) | 2018-04-19 | 2022-08-02 | The Research Foundation For The State University Of New York | Solderless circuit connector |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2001054943A1 (en) | 2001-08-02 |
US20030129046A1 (en) | 2003-07-10 |
DE60133718D1 (en) | 2008-06-05 |
EP1252039B1 (en) | 2008-04-23 |
ATE393055T1 (en) | 2008-05-15 |
US6857840B2 (en) | 2005-02-22 |
EP1252039A1 (en) | 2002-10-30 |
AU2001228241A1 (en) | 2001-08-07 |
CA2434792C (en) | 2010-04-13 |
CA2434792A1 (en) | 2001-08-02 |
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Owner name: SIMPSON TRANZFORMER, CANADA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:SIMPSON, PATRICK DANA;SIMPSON, TERRY EDWARD;SIMPSON, DANA WILLIAM;REEL/FRAME:016822/0454 Effective date: 20040504 |
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