Patent ID: 6095531
Filing Date: 2000-08-01
Classification: B62B

Abstract:
In a hand truck apparatus having a main frame, including side handle frames and ground engaging wheels rotatably connected to the handle frames, the improvement comprising a stair tread engaging assembly connected to one of the side handle frames, the stair tread engaging assembly comprising:(a) an endless V-belt;(b) an elongated body having a central portion and a peripheral portion circumscribing said central portion, said peripheral portion having an elongated roller receiving channel having an access opening for receiving said endless V-belt, said access opening being defined by guide means provided on said body for guiding said V-belt into said access opening, said guide means comprising inwardly sloping side walls provided on said peripheral portion which are substantially parallel to inwardly sloping sides of said V-belt;(c) a plurality of spaced-apart axles spanning at least a portion of said channel; and(d) a roller rotatably carried by each said axle, said roller having a peripheral portion and a belt receiving channel formed in said peripheral portion for closely receiving a portion of said endless V-belt and for centering said V-belt relative to said access opening, said belt receiving channel having inwardly sloping side walls terminating at a base wall.