Patent ID: 6488434
Filing Date: 2002-12-03
Classification: B66C,Y10S,Y10T

Abstract:
Overload indicator apparatus for use in connection with a force generator used to apply a force to a load, and for indicating that the force applied to the load is greater than a predetermined amount, comprising:a. a first support member connectable to at least one of the force generator and the load, and a second support member connectable to at least one of the load and the force generator and spaced away from said first support member; b. a tensile member connected to said first and said second support members, adapted to support at least part of the force when the force is less than substantially the predetermined amount of force; c. an overload retainer comprising at least one beam having a first end connected to said first support member and a second end moveably connected to said second support member, said overload retainer adapted to support at least part of the force when the force is greater than substantially the predetermined amount of force; wherein a far end of said second end comprises a stop member, and wherein when the force is less than substantially the predetermined amount of force said second support member is in an underload position, and when the force is greater than substantially the predetermined amount of force said second support member is in an overload position, wherein the second support member is closer to said stop member when in the overload position than when in the underload position.