Towing apparatus
US6209671A · kind A · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 14, 2000 |
| Grant date | Apr 3, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 14, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S180/904
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A towing apparatus capable of moving aircraft and other workpieces about an airfield or other workspace. The present invention includes a first frame which is rotatable relative to a second frame about a common substantially vertical axis. A wheel assembly is positioned within the first frame and driven by a motor which is also mounted on the first frame. A gripper assembly for engaging the aircraft or other workpiece is attached to the second frame. In this manner, the present invention provides for the towing of aircraft or other workpieces along an axis which is proximate the axis of the wheel assembly. Additionally, it provides for a low center of gravity significantly enhancing the stability and maneuverability of the present invention in a towing attitude or a non-towing attitude.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.