Lightweight vertical lift device for windy conditions
US5862884A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 6, 1996 |
| Grant date | Jan 26, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 6, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64F1/315
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The present invention is an improved wheeled, light-weight lift which meets standards for airline ground support vertical lift devices, specifically being capable of use on airport tarmacs in winds up to 90 mph. On and off-loading ramps are provided which are rotatable between an upright stored position and a horizontal working position. The ramps comprise a bridge structure supporting a plurality of louvred deck plates. Each louvre is linked to the others so as to remain oriented horizontal regardless of the ramps position for minimizing their aerodynamic profile and overturning moment. Outriggers are extendible from the frame so as to increase its base dimensions and thus the moment needed to overturn the lift. The outriggers retract into the frame to minimize storage. The outriggers are horizontally movable along their longitudinal axis to minimize the deployment space required. Lastly, it is preferable to increase the effective weight of the lift by providing wind deflection surfaces or airfoils to create a downward reactive force and thereby increase lift's resistance for overturning.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.