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Patent Abstract
An adjustable frame, mountable on a vehicle, for releasably securing
hand trucks of different sizes and configurations includes: a support
platform for receiving a base of a hand truck; a first and a second
side member affixed to the platform; a first bracket and a second
bracket attached to the first and second side members, respectively,
the brackets extending in parallel therewith; an elongate swing
bar pivotally connected to the first bracket and pivotal between
a first position that retains the hand truck on the platform, and
a second position, which allows access and removal of the hand truck
from the platform; and a latch mounted on the swing bar. The second
bracket may include a strike that engages the latch for releasably
securing the swing bar in the first position. Cushioned crossbars
attachable to the side members dampen vibration of the hand truck
during transportation.
Patent Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An adjustable frame for releasably retaining a hand truck, comprising:
a) a bottom support platform adapted to receive a base of the hand
truck; b) first and second side members affixed to said platform
and extending upwardly therefrom in spaced, generally parallel relation;
c) a first bracket attached to said first side member and a second
bracket attached to said second side member, said brackets extending
outwardly from said side members in spaced, generally parallel relation;
d) an elongate swing bar pivotally connected to said first bracket
and pivotal between i) a first position, in which said swing bar
extends generally between said first and second brackets for retention
of the hand truck on said platform, and ii) a second position, in
which said swing bar extends generally parallel with said brackets
for access and removal of the hand truck from the platform; and
e) a latch mounted on said swing bar for releasable securement of
said swing bar to said second bracket when in said first position.
2. An adjustable frame according to claim 1, wherein each said
side member includes a plurality of attachment locations defined
therealong at different spacings from said platform for selective
attachment of said brackets to said side members at different heights
from said platform.
3. An adjustable frame according to claim 2, wherein each said
attachment location comprises an array of openings defined by said
side member, said array of openings corresponding with an array
of openings defined by a said bracket for extension therethrough
of removable fasteners.
4. An adjustable frame according to claim 1, further comprising
a top crossbar extending between and affixed to said first and second
side members opposite said platform, and abutting said hand truck
when retained by said swing arm on said adjustable frame.
5. An adjustable frame according to claim 4, further comprising
a cushion portion affixed to the top crossbar in abutting orientation
relative to the hand truck.
6. An adjustable frame according to claim 1, wherein said first
bracket includes a plurality of connection locations defined therealong
at different spacings from said first side member for selective
pivotal connection of said swing bar to said first bracket at different
depths from said first side member.
7. An adjustable frame according to claim 6, wherein each said
connection location comprises an array of openings defined by said
first bracket and adapted to receive said swing bar in pivotal connection
therein.
8. An adjustable frame according to claim 1, further comprising
a strike mounted on said second bracket which receives a bolt of
said latch for releasable securement of said swing bar when in said
first position.
9. An adjustable frame according to claim 8, wherein said bolt
is spring-biased to engage said strike when said swing bar moves
into said first position from said second position.
10. An adjustable frame according to claim 8, wherein said latch
bolt does not extend through said second bracket when said swing
arm is secured by said strike.
11. An adjustable frame according to claim 8, wherein said second
bracket includes a plurality of connection locations defined therealong
at different spacings from said second side member for selective
connection of said strike to said second bracket at different depths
from said second side member.
12. An adjustable frame according to claim 11, wherein each said
connection location comprises an array of openings defined by said
second bracket, said array of openings corresponding with an array
of openings defined by said strike for extension therethrough of
removable fasteners.
13. An adjustable frame according to claim 1, further comprising
a backstop including a first portion mounted on said second bracket
and a second portion extending generally coplanar with said swing
bar when in said first position.
14. An adjustable frame according to claim 13, wherein said second
portion defines an opening in register with an opening in said swing
bar when in said first position for receipt through both said openings
of a bolt of a lock.
15. An adjustable frame according to claim 8, further comprising
a backstop including a first portion mounted on said second bracket
and a second portion extending generally coplanar with said swing
bar when in said first position.
16. An adjustable frame according to claim 15, wherein said first
portion of said backstop is oriented orthogonal to said second portion
and wherein said first portion extends between said strike and said
second bracket.
17. An adjustable frame according to claim 1, further comprising
a crossbar attached to said first and second side members for abutment
with the hand truck when retained on the frame, each said side member
including a plurality of attachment locations defined therealong
at different spacings from said platform for selective attachment
of said crossbar to said side members at different heights from
said platform.
18. The adjustable frame according to claim 17, wherein each said
attachment location on said first side member comprises an opening
that corresponds with an opening defining a said attachment location
on said second side member, and wherein said crossbar defines two
openings that register with said corresponding openings on said
side members for receipt therethrough of removable fasteners such
that said crossbar is attached to said side members in substantially
horizontal orientation.
19. The adjustable frame according to claim 17, wherein said crossbar
is attached at a different height from said platform than that of
said first and second brackets.
20. The adjustable frame according to claim 17, wherein each said
side member comprises a U-shaped rail having front and rear end
walls and an intermediate wall with said front and rear end walls
extending from said intermediate wall toward the other said side
member.
21. The adjustable frame according to claim 20, wherein said first
and second brackets extend outwardly from said front end walls of
said first and second side members, respectively, and wherein said
crossbar is attached to said rear end walls of said side members.
22. The adjustable frame according to claim 17, wherein a cushion
is affixed to said crossbar in abutting orientation relative to
the hand truck.
23. An adjustable frame for releasably retaining a hand truck on
a vehicle, comprising: a) a bottom support platform adapted to receive
a base of the hand truck; b) first and second side members affixed
to said platform and extending upwardly therefrom in spaced, generally
parallel relation; c) a first bracket attached to said first side
member and a second bracket attached to said second side member,
said brackets extending outwardly from said side members in spaced,
generally parallel relation, each said side member including a plurality
of attachment locations defined therealong at different spacings
from said platform for selective attachment of said brackets to
said side members at different heights from said platform; d) an
elongate swing bar pivotally connected to said first bracket and
pivotal between i) a first position, in which said swing bar extends
generally between said first and second brackets for retention of
the hand truck on said platform, and ii) a second position, in which
said swing bar extends generally parallel with said brackets for
access and removal of the hand truck from the platform; and e) a
latch mounted on said swing bar for releasable securement of said
swing bar to said second bracket when in said first position.
24. An adjustable frame according to claim 23, wherein each said
attachment location comprises an array of openings defined by said
side member, said array of openings corresponding with an array
of openings defined by a said bracket for extension therethrough
of removable fasteners.
25. An adjustable frame for retaining a hand truck on a vehicle
during transportation, comprising: a) a bottom support platform
adapted to receive a base of the hand truck; b) first and second
side members affixed to said platform and extending upwardly therefrom
in spaced, generally parallel relation; c) a first bracket attached
to said first side member and a second bracket attached to said
second side member, said brackets extending outwardly from said
side members in spaced, generally parallel relation; d) an elongate
swing bar pivotally connected to said first bracket and pivotal
between i) a first position, in which said swing bar extends generally
between said first and second brackets for retention of the hand
truck on said platform, and ii) a second position, in which said
swing bar extends generally parallel with said brackets for access
and removal of the hand truck from the platform, said first bracket
including a plurality of connection locations defined therealong
at different spacings from said first side member for selective
pivotal connection of said swing bar to said first bracket at different
depths from said first side member; and e) a latch mounted on said
swing bar for releasable securement of said swing bar to said second
bracket when in said first position.
26. An adjustable frame according to claim 25, wherein each said
connection location comprises an array of openings defined by said
first bracket and adapted to receive said swing bar in pivotal connection
therein.
27. An adjustable frame according to claim 26, further comprising
a strike mounted on said second bracket which receives a bolt of
said latch for releasable securement of said swing bar when in said
first position.
28. An adjustable frame according to claim 27, wherein said bolt
is spring-biased to engage said strike when said swing bar moves
into said first position from said second position.
29. An adjustable frame according to claim 28, wherein said latch
bolt does not extend through said second bracket when said swing
arm is secured by said strike.
30. An adjustable frame according to claim 27, wherein said second
bracket includes a plurality of connection locations defined therealong
at different spacings from said second side member for selective
connection of said strike to said second bracket at different depths
from said second side member.
31. An adjustable frame according to claim 30, wherein each said
connection location comprises an array of openings defined by said
second bracket, said array of openings corresponding with an array
of openings defined by said strike for extension therethrough of
removable fasteners.
32. An adjustable frame according to claim 27, further comprising
a backstop including a first portion mounted on said second bracket
and a second portion extending generally coplanar with said swing
bar when in said first position.
33. An adjustable frame according to claim 32, wherein said second
portion defines an opening in register with an opening in said swing
bar when in said first position for receipt through both said openings
of a bolt of a lock.
34. An adjustable frame according to claim 32, wherein said first
portion of said backstop is oriented orthogonal to said second portion
and wherein said first portion extends between said strike and said
second bracket.
35. A frame for retaining a hand truck on a vehicle during transportation,
comprising: a) a bottom support platform adapted to receive a base
of the hand truck; b) first and second side members affixed to said
platform and extending upwardly therefrom in spaced, generally parallel
relation; c) a first bracket attached to said first side member
and a second bracket attached to said second side member, said brackets
extending outwardly from said side members in spaced, generally
parallel relation; d) an elongate swing bar pivotally connected
to said first bracket and pivotal between, i) a first position,
in which said swing bar extends generally between said first and
second brackets for retention of the hand truck on said platform,
and ii) a second position, in which said swing bar extends generally
parallel with said brackets for access and removal of the hand truck
from the platform; e) a latch mounted on said swing bar for releasable
securement of said swing bar to said second bracket when in said
first position; and f) a strike mounted on said second bracket which
receives a bolt of said latch for releasable securement of said
swing bar when in said first position.
36. A frame according to claim 35, wherein said bolt is spring-biased
to engage a catch of said strike when said swing bar moves into
said first position from said second position.
37. A frame according to claim 35, further comprising a backstop
including a first portion mounted on said second bracket and a second
portion extending generally coplanar with said swing bar when in
said first position.
38. A frame according to claim 37, wherein said second portion
defines an opening in register with an opening in said swing bar
for receipt through both said openings of a bolt of a lock.
39. A frame according to claim 37, wherein said first portion of
said backstop is oriented orthogonal to said second portion and
wherein said first portion extends between said strike and said
second bracket.
40. A frame for retaining a hand truck on a vehicle during transportation,
comprising: a) a bottom support platform adapted to receive a base
of the hand truck; b) first and second side members affixed to said
platform and extending upwardly therefrom in spaced, generally parallel
relation; c) a first bracket attached to said first side member
and a second bracket attached to said second side member, said brackets
extending outwardly from said side members in spaced, generally
parallel relation; d) an elongate swing bar pivotally connected
to said first bracket and pivotal between i) a first position, in
which said swing bar extends generally between said first and second
brackets for retention of the hand truck on said platform, and ii)
a second position, in which said swing bar extends generally parallel
with said brackets for access and removal of the hand truck from
the platform; e) a latch mounted on said swing bar for releasable
securement of said swing bar to said second bracket when in said
first position; and f) a crossbar attached to said first and second
side members for abutment with the hand truck when retained on the
frame, each said side member including a plurality of attachment
locations defined therealong at different spacings from said platform
for selective attachment of said crossbar to said side members at
different heights from said platform.
41. A frame of claim 40 wherein each said attachment location on
said first side member comprises an opening that corresponds with
an opening defining a said attachment location on said second side
member, and wherein said crossbar defines two openings that register
with said corresponding openings on said side members for receipt
therethrough of removable fasteners such that said crossbar is attached
to said side members in substantially horizontal orientation.
42. A frame of claim 40, wherein said crossbar is attached at a
different height from said platform than that of said first and
second brackets.
43. A frame of claim 40, wherein each said side member comprises
a U-shaped rail having front and rear end walls and an intermediate
wall with said front and rear end walls extending from said intermediate
wall toward the other said side member.
44. A frame of claim 43, wherein said first and second brackets
extend outwardly from said front end walls of said first and second
side members, respectively, and wherein said crossbar is attached
to said rear end walls of said side members.
45. A hand truck mounting frame attachable for used with vehicular
bodies, comprising: a) a hand truck having a base and side rails;
and b) an adjustable frame mounted on said vehicular body for retaining
said hand truck thereon during transportation, said adjustable frame
including, i) a bottom support platform adapted to receive a base
of the hand truck; ii) first and second side members affixed to
said platform and extending upwardly therefrom in spaced, generally
parallel relation; iii) a first bracket attached to said first side
member and a second bracket attached to said second side member,
said brackets extending outwardly from said side members in spaced,
generally parallel relation; iv) an elongate swing bar pivotally
connected to said first bracket and pivotal between A) a first position,
in which said swing bar extends generally between said first and
second brackets for retention of the hand truck on said platform,
and B) a second position, in which said swing bar extends generally
parallel with said brackets for access and removal of the hand truck
from the platform; and v) a latch mounted on said swing bar for
releasable securement of said swing bar to said second bracket when
in said first position.
46. A hand truck mounting frame according to claim 45, wherein
each said side member includes a plurality of attachment locations
defined therealong at different spacings from said platform for
selective attachment of said brackets to said side members at different
heights from said platform.
47. A hand truck mounting frame according to claim 46, wherein
each said attachment location comprises an array of openings defined
by said side member, said array of openings -corresponding with
an array of openings defined by a said bracket for extension therethrough
of removable fasteners.
48. A hand truck mounting frame according to claim 45, further
comprising a top crossbar extending between and affixed to said
first and second side members opposite said platform and abutting
said hand truck when retained by said swing arm on said frame.
49. A hand truck mounting frame according to claim 48, further
comprising a cushion portion affixed to the top crossbar in abutting
orientation relative to the hand truck.
50. A hand truck mounting frame according to claim 45, wherein
said first bracket includes a plurality of connection locations
defined therealong at different spacings from said first side member
for selective pivotal connection of said swing bar to said first
bracket at different depths from said first side member.
51. A hand truck mounting frame according to claim 50, wherein
each said connection location comprises an array of openings defined
by said first bracket and adapted to receive said swing bar in pivotal
connection therein.
52. A hand truck mounting frame according to claim 45, further
comprising a strike mounted on said second bracket which receives
a bolt of said latch for releasable securement of said swing bar
when in said first position.
53. A hand truck mounting frame according to claim 52, wherein
said bolt is spring-biased to engage said strike when said swing
bar moves into said first position from said second position.
54. A hand truck mounting frame according to claim 52, wherein
said latch bolt does not extend through said second bracket when
said swing arm is secured by said strike.
55. A hand truck mounting frame according to claim 52, wherein
said second bracket includes a plurality of connection locations
defined therealong at different spacings from said second side member
for selective connection of said strike to said second bracket at
different depths from said second side member.
56. A hand truck mounting frame according to claim 55, wherein
each said connection location comprises an array of openings defined
by said second bracket, said array of openings corresponding with
an array of openings defined by said strike for extension therethrough
of removable fasteners.
57. A hand truck mounting frame according to claim 45, further
comprising a backstop including a first portion mounted on said
second bracket and a second portion extending generally coplanar
with said swing bar when in said first position.
58. A hand truck mounting frame according to claim 57, wherein
said second portion defines an opening in register with an opening
in said swing bar when in said first position for receipt through
both said openings of a bolt of a lock.
59. A hand truck mounting frame according to claim 52, further
comprising a backstop including a first portion mounted on said
second bracket and a second portion extending generally coplanar
with said swing bar when in said first position.
60. A hand truck mounting frame according to claim 59, wherein
said first portion of said backstop is oriented orthogonal to said
second portion and wherein said first portion extends between said
strike and said second bracket.
61. A hand truck mounting frame according to claim 45, further
comprising a crossbar attached to said first and second side members
for abutment with the hand truck when retained on the frame, each
said side member including a plurality of attachment locations defined
therealong at different spacings from said platform for selective
attachment of said crossbar to said side members at different heights
from said platform.
62. A hand truck mounting frame according to claim 61, wherein
each said attachment location on said first side member comprises
an opening that corresponds with an opening defining a said attachment
location on said second side member, and wherein said crossbar defines
two openings that register with said corresponding openings on said
side members for receipt therethrough of removable fasteners such
that said crossbar is attached to said side members in substantially
horizontal orientation.
63. A hand truck mounting frame according to claim 61, wherein
said crossbar is attached at a different height from said platform
than that of said first and second brackets.
64. A hand truck mounting frame according to claim 61, wherein
each said side member comprises a U-shaped rail having front and
rear end walls and an intermediate wall with said front and rear
end walls extending from said intermediate wall toward the other
said side member.
65. A hand truck mounting frame according to claim 64, wherein
said first and second brackets extend outwardly from said front
end walls of said first and second side members, respectively, and
wherein said crossbar is attached to said rear end walls of said
side members.
66. A hand truck mounting frame of claim 45, wherein said platform
is mounted to a bumper of said vehicular body.
67. A method of adjusting a frame mounted on a body of a vehicle
for retaining a hand truck thereon during transportation, the frame
including, (a) a bottom support platform adapted to receive a base
of the hand truck, (b) first and second side members affixed to
the platform and extending upwardly therefrom, (c) a first bracket
attached to the first side member and a second bracket attached
to the second side member, the brackets extending outwardly from
the side members, each side member including a plurality of attachment
locations defined therealong at different spacings from the platform
for selective attachment of the brackets to the side members at
different heights from the platform, (d) an elongate swing bar pivotally
connected to the first bracket and pivotal between, (i) a first
position, in which the swing bar extends generally between the first
and second brackets for retention of the hand truck on the platform,
and (ii) a second position, in which the swing bar extends generally
parallel with the brackets for access and removal of the hand truck
from the platform, and (e) a latch mounted on the swing bar for
releasable securement of the swing bar to the second bracket when
in the first position, the method comprising the steps of, unattaching
each bracket from the side member at a first attachment location
and reattaching each bracket to each side member at a second attachment
location whereby the swing bar is repositioned at a different height
relative to the platform for accommodating a different hand truck.
68. A method of adjusting a frame mounted on a body of a vehicle
for retaining a hand truck thereon during transportation, the frame
including, (a) a bottom support platform adapted to receive a base
of the hand truck, (b) first and second brackets extending above
the platform outwardly from the vehicular body, (c) an elongate
swing bar pivotally connected to the first bracket and pivotal between,
(i) a first position, in which the swing bar extends generally between
the first and second brackets for retention of the hand truck on
the platform between the swing bar and the vehicular body, and (ii)
a second position, in which the swing bar extends generally parallel
with the brackets for access and removal of the hand truck from
the platform, the first bracket including a plurality of connection
locations defined therealong at different spacings from the vehicular
body for selective pivotal connection of the swing bar to the first
bracket at different depths from the vehicular body, and (d) a latch
mounted on the swing bar for releasable securement of the swing
bar to the second bracket when in the first position, the method
comprising the steps of, disconnecting the swing bar from the first
bracket at a first connection location and reconnecting the swing
bar to the first bracket at a second connection location, whereby
the swing bar is repositioned at a different depth relative to the
vehicular body for securement of the hand truck on the frame.
69. A method according to claim 68, wherein the frame further comprises
a strike mounted on the second bracket which receives a bolt of
the latch for releasable securement of the swing bar when in the
first position, the second bracket including a plurality of connection
locations defined therealong at different spacings from the vehicular
body for selective connection of the strike to the second bracket
at different depths to the vehicular body, the method further comprising
the steps of dismounting the strike from the second bracket at a
first connection location thereon and remounting the strike to the
second bracket at a second connection location thereon such that
the latch again engages the strike for securement of the swing bar
to the second bracket when in the first position.
70. A method of adjusting a frame mounted on a body of a vehicle
for retaining a hand truck thereon during transportation, the frame
including, (a) a bottom support platform adapted to receive a base
of the hand truck, (b) first and second side members affixed to
the platform and extending upwardly therefrom, (c) a first bracket
attached to the first side member and a second bracket attached
to the second side member, the brackets extending outwardly from
the side members, (d) an elongate swing bar pivotally connected
to the first bracket and pivotal between, (i) a first position,
in which the swing bar extends generally between the first and second
brackets for retention of the hand truck on the platform, and (ii)
a second position, in which the swing bar extends generally parallel
with the brackets for access and removal of the hand truck from
the platform, (e) a latch mounted on the swing bar for releasable
securement of the swing bar to the second bracket when in the first
position, and (f) a crossbar attached to the first and second side
members for abutment with the hand truck when retained on the frame,
each side member including a plurality of attachment locations defined
therealong at different spacings from the platform for selective
attachment of the crossbar to the side members at different heights
from the platform, the method comprising the steps of, unattaching
the crossbar from the side members at respective first attachment
locations thereon, and reattaching the crossbar to the side members
at respective second attachment locations thereon, whereby the swing
bar is repositioned at a different height relative to the platform
for accommodating a different hand truck.
71. A method for mounting an adjustable frame used for releasably
retaining a hand truck to a vehicle having a vehicular body and
the adjustable frame having (a) a bottom support platform adapted
to receive a base of the hand truck; (b) first and second side members
affixed to said platform and extending upwardly therefrom in spaced,
generally parallel relation; (c) a first bracket attached to said
first side member and a second bracket attached to said second side
member, said brackets extending outwardly from said side members
in spaced, generally parallel relation; (d) an elongate swing bar
pivotally connected to said first bracket and pivotal between (i)
a first position, in which said swing bar extends generally between
said first and second brackets for retention of the hand truck on
said platform, and (ii) a second position, in which said swing bar
extends generally parallel with said brackets for access and removal
of the hand truck from the platform; and (e) a latch mounted on
said swing bar for releasable securement of said swing bar to said
second bracket when in said first position. the method comprising
the steps of, attaching the platform to said vehicular body; and
connecting the side members to said vehicular body.
72. A method according to claim 71, wherein the step of attaching
the platform to the vehicular body includes the step of welding
said platform to the vehicular body.
73. A method according to claim 72, further characterized in that
the vehicular body includes at least one bumper and the step of
attaching the platform to the vehicular body includes the step of
welding the platform to the bumper.
74. A method according to claim 71, wherein the step of connecting
the vehicular body to said side members includes the steps of (a)
welding gussets to the vehicular body in a spaced relation corresponding
to said side members; and (b) welding said gussets to said side
members.
75. A method according to claim 74, wherein the vehicular body
has at least one bumper and the method of connecting the vehicular
body to said side members includes the step of welding the gussets
to the bumper.
76. A method for releasably retaining a hand truck to a vehicle
having an adjustable frame, the hand truck having a base and side
rails and the adjustable frame having (a) a bottom support platform
with an opening for receiving the base of said hand truck; (b) first
and second side members affixed to said platform and extending upwardly
therefrom in spaced, generally parallel relation; (c) a first bracket
attached to said first side member and a second bracket attached
to said second side member, said brackets extending outwardly from
said side members in spaced, generally parallel relation; (d) an
elongate swing bar pivotally connected to said first bracket and
pivotal between (i) a first position, in which said swing bar extends
generally between said first and second brackets for retention of
the hand truck on said platform, and (ii) a second position, in
which said swing bar extends generally parallel with said brackets
for access and removal of the hand truck from the platform; (e)
a latch mounted on said swing bar for releasable securement of said
swing bar to said second bracket when in said first position; and
(f) a crossbar extending between and attached to said first and
second side members for abutment with the hand truck when retained
on the frame, the method comprising the steps of: (a) placing the
base of said hand truck within the opening in the platform; (b)
positioning the side rails of the hand truck between the first and
second side members such that the hand truck is abutting said crossbar;
and (c) moving the elongate swing bar pivotally to the first position,
thereby releasably securing the hand truck to the adjustable frame.
Patent Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. No. 60/238,191, filed Oct. 5, 2000, incorporated
herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a frame mounted on a vehicular
body for transporting a hand truck and, in particular, to such a
frame that is adjustable for accommodating hand trucks of different
sizes and configurations, and to a method of adjusting such a frame.
BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0003] A frame mounted on a vehicular body for transporting a hand
truck is well known in the art. Such frames are disclosed, for example,
by U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,522,530 to Boettcher; 5,236,342 to Pellettier;
and 3,443,730 to Meusel, each patent of which is expressly incorporated
herein by reference.
[0004] Hand trucks (or "dollies") are often carried on
the vehicular bodies of delivery trucks for convenience. At each
stop of the delivery truck, the hand truck is readily available
to assist the driver in unloading and transporting the cargo to
be delivered like, for example, boxed cans of beverages including
soda and beer.
[0005] Each manufacturer of the vehicular body commonly includes
a frame for transporting a hand truck in the design of the vehicular
body. In doing so, however, the manufacturer must either predetermine
the size and configuration of the hand truck that will be used with
the frame by contacting the customer for the vehicular body, or
the manufacturer must make a "best guess" of the size
and configuration of the hand truck that will be used with the frame.
Unfortunately, most often the hand truck that is ultimately used
with the frame is either not the hand truck that is initially specified
by the customer, or it is not the hand truck that was guessed by
the manufacturer. In any event, to accommodate the customer in the
interests of customer care, the manufacturer defacto will send,
at the manufacturer's expense, the customer a differently sized
frame specifically customized for the actual hand truck used.
[0006] Accordingly, a specific need exists by which a manufacturer
can build a vehicular body including a frame which is adjustable
and which accommodates a variety of hand trucks which the customer
ultimately might use.
SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0007] Generally, the present invention relates to an adjustable
frame for accommodating different hand trucks (i.e., hand trucks
having a different size and/or configuration), and a method of adjusting
such a frame. Briefly summarized, the frame of the present invention
includes: (a) a bottom support platform adapted to receive a base
of a hand truck; (b) first and second side members affixed to the
platform and extending upwardly therefrom in spaced, generally parallel
relation; (c) a first bracket attached to the first side member
and a second bracket attached to the second side member, the brackets
extending outwardly from the side members in spaced, generally parallel
relation; (d) an elongate swing bar pivotally connected to the first
bracket and pivotal between (i) a first position, whereat the swing
bar extends between the first and second brackets for retention
of the hand truck on the platform, and (ii) a second position, whereat
the swing bar extends generally parallel with the brackets for access
and removal of the hand truck from the platform; and (e) a latch
mounted on the swing bar for releasable securement of the swing
bar to the second bracket when in the first position.
[0008] In accordance with a first feature of the present invention,
each side member includes a plurality of attachment locations defined
therealong at different spacings from the platform for selective
attachment of the brackets to the side members at different heights
from the platform. Preferably, each attachment location comprises
an array of openings defined by the side member, with the array
of openings corresponding with an array of openings defined by a
bracket for extension therethrough of removable fasteners.
[0009] In accordance with a second feature of the present invention,
the first bracket includes a plurality of connection locations defined
therealong at different spacings from the first side member for
selective pivotal connection of the swing bar to the first bracket
at different depths from the first side member. Preferably, each
connection location comprises an array of openings defined by the
first bracket and adapted to receive the swing bar in pivotal connection
therein. The attachment locations and the connection locations provide
a method of adjusting, respectively, the height and depth of the
frame for accommodation of different hand trucks.
[0010] A third feature of the present invention includes a strike
mounted to the second bracket for engagement with the latch carried
on the swing bar whereby the swing bar is securely retained on the
frame during transportation. In particular, the strike preferably
engages a latch bolt of the latch for releasable securement of the
swing bar when in the first position. Moreover, the latch bolt preferably
is spring-biased to engage a catch of the strike when the swing
bar moves into the first position from the second position. The
frame also preferably includes a backstop including a first portion
mounted on the second bracket and a second portion extending generally
coplanar with the swing bar when in the first position and defining
an opening in register with an opening in the swing bar for receipt
through both of the openings of a bolt of a lock for protection
of the band truck from theft. The first portion of the backstop
preferably is oriented orthogonal to the second portion, and the
first portion preferably extends between the strike and the second
bracket. In accordance with this third feature and an aforesaid
adjustability feature of the frame, the second bracket includes
a plurality of connection locations defined therealong at different
spacings from the second side member for selective connection of
the strike to the second bracket at different depths from the second
side member. Preferably, each connection location comprises an array
of openings that corresponds with the array of openings defined
by the strike.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] Further features, embodiments, and advantages of the apparatus
and method of the present invention will become apparent from the
following detailed description with reference to the drawings, wherein:
[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the front of a frame for
retaining a hand truck on a vehicular body in accordance with the
present invention;
[0013] FIG. 2 is another perspective view of the front of the frame
of FIG. 1;
[0014] FIG. 3 is an elevational view of the front of the frame
of FIG. 1;
[0015] FIG. 4 is an elevational view of a side of the frame of
FIG. 1;
[0016] FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the frame of FIG. 1;
[0017] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the frame of FIG. 1 mounted
on the bumper of a first vehicular body;
[0018] FIG. 7 is an elevational view of the frame of FIG. 6 taken
along the line 7-7;
[0019] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the frame of FIG. 1 mounted
on the bumper of a second vehicular body;
[0020] FIG. 9 is an elevational view of the frame of FIG. 8 taken
along the line 8-8;
[0021] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a bracket, strike and backstop
of the frame of FIG. 1;
[0022] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the swing bar and latch
of the frame of FIG. 1;
[0023] FIG. 12 is an elevational view of the front of the swing
bar and latch of the frame of FIG. 1;
[0024] FIG. 13 is a plan view of the top of the swing bar and latch
of the frame of FIG. 1;
[0025] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a crossbar of the frame
of FIG. 1;
[0026] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the other bracket of the
frame of FIG. 1; and
[0027] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the backstop of the frame
of FIG. 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0028] Referring now to the drawings, a preferred frame 20 of the
present invention generally is shown in perspective view in FIGS.
1-5. The frame 20 includes a bottom support platform 22 comprising
an elongated U-shaped ledge 24 and a flat bar 26 welded at its ends
28,30 to the ledge 24 to thereby form a generally rectangular opening
32 adapted to receive the base of a hand truck (not shown). In particular,
the opening 32 is dimensioned to receive therethrough a plate of
the base of the hand truck as is conventional. Upturned end walls
34,36 of the U-shaped ledge 24 each includes a recess 38 designed
to conform to a surface configuration of a bumper of a vehicular
body for mounting of the platform 22 thereto, all as will be more
fully described below with references to FIGS. 6-9.
[0029] With continued reference to FIGS. 1-5, the frame 20 includes
first and second side members 40,42 that are affixed to the platform
22 by welding. The two side members 40,42 extend upwardly from the
upturned end walls 34,36 of the platform 22 in spaced, parallel
relation to each other. The first side member 40 comprises a U-shaped
rail having front and rear end walls 44,46 and an intermediate wall
48 and, in similar manner, the second side member 42 comprises a
U-shaped rail having front and rear end walls 50,52 and an intermediate
wall 54. Each front wall 44,50 includes a plurality of openings
56,58 respectively which define a plurality of attachment locations
for selective attachment of first and second brackets 60,62, as
will be more fully described below. Likewise, each rear wall 46,52
of the side members 40,42 also includes a plurality of openings
64,66 respectively which define a plurality of attachment locations
for selective attachment of a crossbar 68 to the side members 40,42,
also as will be more fully described below.
[0030] The side members 40,42 are joined at their upper ends by
the welding of a top crossbar 70 to the rear walls 46,52 thereof
resulting in great rigidity of the side members 40,42 and the frame
20 overall.
[0031] The first and second brackets 60,62 referred to above serve
to support a swing bar 72 which retains the hand truck on the frame
20 during transportation. The first bracket 60 is shown in detail
in FIG. 15, the second bracket 62 is shown in detail in FIG. 10,
and the swing arm is shown in detail in FIGS. 11-13.
[0032] In particular, each bracket 60,62 respectively includes
a U-shaped channel portion 74,76 and a right-angle mounting portion
78,80 welded to an end thereof. The first bracket 60 is attached
to the first side member 40 at one of the plurality of attachment
locations defined by two adjacent openings 56 disposed along the
first side member 40. In this respect, each attachment location
thereof includes an array of openings 56 formed in the front wall
44 of the first side member 40, which array corresponds with an
array of openings 82 formed in the mounting portion 78 of the first
bracket 60 whereby removable fasteners, such as bolts 84, attach
the first bracket 60 to the first side member 40. For further support
of the first bracket 60, an additional opening 86 is defined by
the intermediate wall 48 of the first side member 40 as part of
the array of openings for an additional point of attachment of the
mounting portion 78 of the first bracket 60 with another removable
fastener 88. The second bracket 62 is attached to the second side
member 42 in like fashion with attachment locations on the second
side member 42 corresponding at the same height from the platform
22 with attachment locations on the first side member 40. Accordingly,
the first and second brackets 60,62 are attached to the side members
40,42 at the same height from the platform 22.
[0033] The first and second brackets 60,62 extend from the side
members 40,42 in spaced, generally parallel relation to each other.
The first bracket 60 includes a plurality of connection locations
defined therealong for the pivotal connection thereon of a hinge
90 of the swing bar 72 at different spacings from the first side
member 40. Each connection location preferably includes an array
of opposed openings 92 having a common axis through which the ends
of the hinge 90 of the swing bar 72 are received.
[0034] The swing bar 72 itself is elongate and includes the hinge
90 on one end and a latch 94 on the other end. The swing bar 72
pivots between a first position extending between the first and
second brackets 60,62 and a second position extending generally
parallel to the first and second brackets 60,62. The second bracket
62 includes an array of connection locations defined by openings
96 disposed therealong for the mounting of a strike 98 thereon at
different spacings from the second side member 42. Preferably, each
connection location on the second bracket 62 includes an array of
openings 96 which correspond with an array of openings on the strike
98 for mounting thereof to the second bracket 62 with removable
fasteners 100. In the preferred embodiment, the spacing of the strike
98 from the second side member 42 is substantially the same as the
spacing of the hinge 90 from the first side member 40.
[0035] The strike 98 is adapted to receive a latch bolt 102 of
the latch 94 when the swing bar 72 moves into the first position
from the second position. Specifically, the strike 98 includes a
catch 104 that pivots to permit passage of the latch bolt 102 in
the direction from the second position toward the first position,
but which does not permit passage of the latch bolt 102 in the opposite
direction.
[0036] The latch bolt 102 itself is spring-biased so that the latch
bolt 102 prevents the swing bar 72 from moving out of the first
position when engaged by the strike 98. In order to unlatch the
swing bar 72, the latch bolt 102 must be moved against the biasing
of the spring 106 toward the first bracket 60 and, thereby, withdrawn
from the strike 98, whereat the swing bar 72 is then able to pivot
from the first position toward the second position.
[0037] A backstop 108 is provided for inhibiting movement of the
swing bar 72 away from the second position past the first position.
The backstop 108 is shown in detail in FIG. 16 and preferably comprises
two planar portions 110,112 joined together orthogonal to one another.
A first planar portion 110 includes an array 114 of openings corresponding
to the array of openings 96 of the connection locations of the second
bracket 62, whereby the first planar portion 110 is mounted to the
second bracket 62 inbetween the second bracket 62 and the strike
98. The second planar portion 112 extends parallel to the backside
of the end of the swing bar 72. The end of the swing bar 72 and
the second planar portion 112 each includes respectively a coaxial
opening 116,118 through which the bolt of a lock 120 is extendable
for locking of the swing bar 72 in the first position for protection
from theft of a hand truck retained on the frame 20.
[0038] The frame 20 also includes a crossbar 68 provided for abutment
with the hand truck when retained on the frame 20 though engagement
with the swing bar 72 when closed in the first position. The crossbar
68 includes a cushion portion 122 formed of rubber for engagement
with the hand truck for dampening of any vibration or rattling that
otherwise might occur during transportation of the hand truck. As
set forth above, the rear walls 46,52 of the side members 40,42
each respectively include a plurality of attachment locations each
comprising an opening 64,66. Each end of the crossbar 68 includes
a respective opening 124,126 that is spaced from the other to correspond
with the spacing between the pairs of attachment locations on the
side members 40,42 having the same height from the platform 22.
Accordingly, the crossbar 68 is removably mounted to the rear walls
46,52 of the side members 40,42 in a generally horizontal orientation
therebetween and at a selected height by removable fasteners such
as bolts 128.
[0039] The frame is mounted in conventional manner to the bumper
128 of a vehicular body 130 as shown, for example, in FIGS. 6-7,
and to a different bumper 132 of another vehicular body 134 as shown,
for another example, in FIGS. 8-9. In each instance, the platform
22 is welded to the bumper 128,132 along the recesses 38 thereof.
Additionally, gussets 136 are welded to the bumper 128,132 and to
the side members 40,42 of the frame 20. It is understood that the
frame may also be mounted on structures other than vehicles.
[0040] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the first and second brackets
are mounted at first attachment locations on the side members in
order for the swing bar to have a predetermined, desired height
from the platform which will accommodate a hand truck of a certain
size and configuration. In order to accommodate a new hand truck
of a different size and configuration, the removable fasteners are
removed from the brackets and side members, the brackets are repositioned
at different attachment locations along the side members at the
desired height, and the removable fasteners are reinserted through
the corresponding arrays of openings to reattach the brackets to
the side members at the new, desired height for the new hand truck.
In similar manner, the frame is also adjustable to accommodate the
depth of a new hand truck. In this regard, the place of the releasable
mounting of the hinge of the swing bar and the strike can be selected
at one of a plurality of connection locations along the first and
second brackets, respectively, with each connection location of
the plurality on a respective bracket having a different lateral
spacing from the respective side member. Likewise, the crossbar
is removably mounted to the rear walls of the side members in a
generally horizontal orientation therebetween and at a selected
height by removable fasteners such as bolts. The frame thereby is
even further adjustable for accommodating hand trucks of different
sizes and configurations.
[0041] In view of the aforesaid written description of the present
invention, it will be readily understood by those persons skilled
in the art that the present invention is susceptible of broad utility
and application. Many embodiments and adaptations of the present
invention other than those herein described, as well as many variations,
modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be apparent from
or reasonably suggested by the present invention and the foregoing
description thereof, without departing from the substance or scope
of the present invention. Accordingly, while the present invention
has been described herein in detail in relation to preferred embodiments,
it is to be understood that this disclosure is only illustrative
and exemplary of the present invention and is made merely for purposes
of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention. The
foregoing disclosure is not intended nor is to be construed to limit
the present invention or otherwise to exclude any such other embodiments,
adaptations, variations, modifications and equivalent arrangements,
the present invention being limited only by the claims appended
hereto and the equivalents thereof.
[0042] Thus, for example, the side members are not necessarily
required for practicing certain features of the present invention.
For example, the platform, brackets, and crossbar each can be affixed
to the vehicular body without interconnection thereof with side
members. Of course, in this embodiment of the present invention,
the frame could be adjustable with respect to the depth of a hand
truck that could be accommodated, but the height would not necessarily
be adjustable. Furthermore, the frame could also include the mounting
of the strike to the second bracket for secure retention of the
swing arm without any features of adjustability and still fall within
the scope of the present invention as claimed, a feature of the
claimed invention including the mere mounting of a strike to the
second bracket.
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