Lift actuator

US7559533B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Gorbel, Inc. · US

Inventors

• James G. Stockmaster · Sodus, US
• Jim Alday · Honeoye Falls, US
• Brian G. Peets · Fairport, US
• Peter Liu · Brighton, US
• Robert DeVoria · Penfield, US
• John Pembroke · Farmington, US
• Blake Reese · Honeoye Falls, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jan 16, 2007
• Grant date: Jul 14, 2009
• Expiry date: Mar 27, 2027

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B66D1/56
• WIPO field: Handling
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

An improved electric lift actuator for use on a variety of lift systems, includes various improvements that enable a universal design with interchangeable parts across several load ranges. The universal design further enables additional features and functionality (e.g., improved load cell location, improved operator sensing and electrical signal/air channel in operator pendant, improved reliability and reduced cost for operator force sensing, etc.) In addition the universal design is incorporated with a rotational drive assembly wherein the load sensing and wire rope slack sensing, as well as cable limits may be achieved using improved components and techniques—such as non-contact sensors, etc. Many of the improvements described are believed to reduce cost and improve the performance and expand the capacity and reliability of the actuator in addition to making the actuator a common design across several applications and load ranges.