Fail-safe load support system
US5335755A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 30, 1993 |
| Grant date | Aug 9, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 30, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE04H6/065
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A structural support system for vehicle storage has two independent means to rotate a two-deck inclinable structure about a pivot on a stationary structure. The inclinable structure does not change shape when it is tilted and contains a compression member which connects the upper and lower decks. Four tension members are provided to connect the bottom of the compression member with the four corners of the upper deck. A force sensor is used to calibrate the forces in the tension rods to constrain the compression member from deflecting when the decks are loaded, enabling a significant increase in the safe dynamic load carrying capability of the inclinable structure. The system includes an automatic vehicle restraining mechanism to prevent movement of the vehicle when inclined away from horizontal. A secondary cable system operates in parallel with the primary rotation means to counteract the empty weight of the inclinable structure.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.