Fluid operated transport device, and method
US4832168A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 13, 1987 |
| Grant date | May 23, 1989 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 13, 2007 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65G35/00
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A cargo handling device is provided. In a preferred embodiment, the device comprises a substrate having at least one motivation mechanism mounted thereon. In other embodiments, the substrate may include more than one motivation mechanism. The motivation mechanism comprises a plurality of pairs of oppositely directed foot members; each pair of foot members comprising a first hinged member and a second hinged member. The first hinged member of each pair is selectively actuatable independently of the second member of each pair of foot members. Each hinged member generally comprises a hinge-shaped member having one hinged side mounted to the substrate and the other hinged side movable with respect thereto. For the preferred embodiment movement is generated by means of fluid bladder positioned between the two hinge member sides. When operated according to a preferred sequence, the device may be utilized in a first mode to move a substrate across a surface, such as a warehouse floor or a truck bed. When operated according to a second mode, with the foot members directed upwardly and against the under side of cargo, the cargo may be selectively moved according to a selected path. In one e…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.