Patent ID: 6296288
Filing Date: 2001-10-02
Classification: B66C

Abstract:
A spreader bar apparatus comprising:a) a pair of bar sections that are connectable end-to-end to form a lifting bar with a bar central longitudinal axis;b) left and right bar end members each removably attachable to the lifting bar;c) a plurality of transverse mating annular faces provided on both the bar sections and the bar end members for transferring axial load along the bar central axis in between bar sections and bar end members;d) a plurality of longitudinally extending interlocking connecting portions provided respectively on the bar sections and bar end members for forming detachable connections between bar sections and between the bar end member and the bar section;e) wherein said connecting portions are defined by correspondingly shaped projecting portions and socket portions, a projecting portion mating with a socket portion when the bar section is connected to said another section or to the bar end member, the projecting portion having an outwardly facing and longitudinally extending surface having one of said interlocking connecting portions thereon that extends longitudinally a distance, and the socket portion having an inwardly facing, longitudinally extending surface having one of said interlocking connecting portions thereon that extends longitudinally a distance; andf) wherein load transfer occurs at the transverse mating faces to define a means for protecting the interlocking connecting portions.