Hoist apparatus securement system and method

A hoist apparatus assembly for a vehicle having a vehicle frame. The hoist apparatus assembly includes a hoist apparatus comprising a hoist apparatus frame. The hoist apparatus frame has a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a longitudinal axis. The hoist apparatus assembly also includes an apron plate disposed at the hoist apparatus frame first end, and the apron plate defines at least one slot therethrough. Also, the hoist apparatus assembly includes at least one first bracket including a plate and a stem disposed at a right angle to the plate. The plate of the at least one first bracket is coupled with the hoist apparatus frame at the hoist apparatus frame first end. The stem of the at least one first bracket extends through the at least one slot in the apron plate and is coupled with the vehicle frame.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to the field of material-hauling containers and vehicles comprising a hoist apparatus operative to load, unload, transport, and empty such containers. More particularly, certain embodiments of the present invention relate to improved systems and methods for securing a hoist apparatus to a vehicle frame.

BACKGROUND

In the waste and materials hauling industry, a variety of containers are used to collect, transport, and/or dump waste, bulk, and liquid materials, among others. Such containers typically are carried on vehicles, such as trucks, or on trailers. The vehicle or trailer is provided with a hoist apparatus to load a container onto and unload the container from the vehicle or trailer, transport the container, and empty the container. Examples of hoist apparatuses include hook hoists, cable hoists, winches, forklifts, and container handlers. As is well-understood, the hoist apparatus may be operated via one or more hydraulic cylinders in fluid communication with the vehicle's hydraulic system.

The containers loaded and carried by hoist apparatuses may be very heavy, especially when filled. Accordingly, and for example, hoist apparatuses may be rated for a container capacity of 20,000 or 30,000 lbs. Heavier duty hoist apparatuses can be rated for more than 30,000 lbs, in some cases up to 75,000 lbs or greater.

The process of securing currently available hoist apparatuses to a frame or chassis of a vehicle or trailer is cumbersome and complex. Among other things, this process typically involves making cuts to the frame and welding the hoist apparatus (or a sub-frame thereof) to the vehicle or trailer frame. Further, shims and/or other components may be required to help position the hoist apparatus on or align it properly with the vehicle or trailer frame. Finally, painting (or repainting) of the vehicle or trailer frame and/or hoist assembly often is necessary as a result of the cuts, welds, and other abrasions from installation.

The foregoing discussion is intended only to illustrate various aspects of the related art in the field of the invention at the time, and should not be taken as a disavowal of claim scope.

SUMMARY

Some example embodiments comprise apparatus and methods for attaching a hoist apparatus to a vehicle frame. In various embodiments, the hoist apparatus may comprise a hook hoist, a cable hoist, or a loaded container handler. Also, in various embodiments, the vehicle may comprise a trailer. Further, in various embodiments, the hoist apparatus is attached to the vehicle frame only via a non-welded connection, such as via mechanical fasteners.

According to one embodiment, the present invention provides a hoist apparatus assembly for a vehicle, the vehicle having a vehicle frame comprising first and second longitudinal rails. The hoist apparatus assembly includes a hoist apparatus mechanically fastened to and detachable from the vehicle frame, and the hoist apparatus includes a hoist apparatus frame. The hoist apparatus assembly also includes at least one first bracket. The at least one first bracket has a plate extending along a first plane and a stem coupled with the plate, the stem extending along a second plane that is perpendicular to the first plane. The plate of the at least one first bracket is mechanically fastened to the hoist apparatus frame. The stem of the at least one first bracket is mechanically fastened to the first longitudinal rail of the vehicle frame.

In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides a hoist apparatus assembly for a vehicle having a vehicle frame. The hoist apparatus assembly includes a hoist apparatus comprising a hoist apparatus frame. The hoist apparatus frame has a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a longitudinal axis. The hoist apparatus assembly also includes an apron plate disposed at the hoist apparatus frame first end, and the apron plate defines at least one slot therethrough. Also, the hoist apparatus assembly includes at least one first bracket including a plate and a stem disposed at a right angle to the plate. The plate of the at least one first bracket is coupled with the hoist apparatus frame at the hoist apparatus frame first end. The stem of the at least one first bracket extends through the at least one slot in the apron plate and is coupled with the vehicle frame.

According to a further embodiment, the present invention provides a method for attaching a hoist apparatus to a vehicle frame. The hoist apparatus includes a hoist apparatus frame and the vehicle frame includes first and second longitudinal rails. The vehicle frame has a proximal end, a distal end, and a first longitudinal axis, and the hoist apparatus has a second longitudinal axis. The method includes the step of placing the hoist apparatus frame on the first and second longitudinal rails such that the first longitudinal axis is parallel with the second longitudinal axis. The method also includes positioning an apron plate at the distal end of the vehicle frame. Further, the method includes providing at least one first bracket having a plate and a stem disposed at a right angle to the plate. The method additionally includes positioning the stem of the at least one first bracket so that it is in engagement with the first longitudinal rail. The stem of the at least one first bracket extends along a plane parallel with the first longitudinal axis. The method includes positioning the plate of the at least one first bracket so that it engages the hoist apparatus frame, mechanically fastening the stem of the at least one first bracket with the first longitudinal rail, and mechanically fastening the plate of the at least one first bracket with the hoist apparatus frame.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

As used herein, terms referring to a direction or a position relative to the orientation of a vehicle or hoist apparatus, such as but not limited to “vertical,” “horizontal,” “upper,” “lower,” “front,” or “rear,” refer to directions and relative positions with respect to the vehicle's or hoist apparatus's orientation in its normal intended operation, as indicated in the Figures herein. Thus, for instance, the terms “vertical” and “upper” refer to the vertical direction and relative upper position in the perspectives of the Figures and should be understood in that context, even with respect to an apparatus that may be disposed in a different orientation. The term “substantially,” as used herein, should be interpreted as “nearly” or “close to,” such as to account for design and manufacturing tolerances of the apparatus.

Hoist apparatuses are currently available from a number of companies, such as Galbreath, LLC of Winamac, Ind. Examples of hoist apparatuses which may be modified for use with embodiments of the present invention may be found, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 10,137,819 to Franiak et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 9,896,013 to Franiak et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 9,004,842 to Downing et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,542,807 to Kruzick; U.S. Pat. No. 5,531,559 to Kruzick; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,088,875 to Galbreath et al., each of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety for all purposes. Those of skill in the art are familiar with such hoist apparatuses, which accordingly are not described in further detail herein.

Such hoist apparatuses are often sold as components or kits separate from the vehicles to which they are ultimately attached. Typically, these hoist apparatuses are not designed to fit the frame of a single specific vehicle (or a particular manufacturer's vehicles). Rather, they are designed to be attached to a variety of different vehicles, many of which have dimensions and specifications that vary from model to model and manufacturer to manufacturer. For instance, the frame of a first manufacturer's vehicle may have a certain width, and a second manufacturer's vehicle frame may have a meaningfully different width. Likewise, the length of the first manufacturer's vehicle frame may exceed the length of the second manufacturer's vehicle frame.

As a result, attaching currently available lift systems to the vehicle chassis or frame is a difficult and time-consuming process. Typically, installation will require that cuts be made to the vehicle frame. Further, at least some welding is often required to secure the lift system (or a sub-frame thereof) to the vehicle frame. Various other components and tools may be required, such as shims that help position the hoist apparatus on or align it properly with the vehicle frame. Finally, following installation, the vehicle frame and hoist assembly may need to be painted or repainted prior to delivery to a customer.

Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention relate to improved systems and methods for attaching a hoist apparatus to a vehicle frame. As described in more detail below, when installing a hoist apparatus in accordance with embodiments of the present invention, neither cutting of a vehicle chassis nor welding is required. Likewise, it is not necessary to use additional fitting components, such as shims or the like, to allow a hoist apparatus to be used with differently-sized vehicle frames. A hoist apparatus may be appropriately secured to vehicle frames of differing dimensions using only suitable fasteners, such as but not limited to bolts, and the components described herein. Further, systems in accordance with embodiments of the present invention may be sold and/or shipped to customers fully painted, and the systems can then be installed without requiring repainting or touch-up.

Although some preferred embodiments are discussed below in the context of a vehicle-mounted cable hoist comprising a sub-frame, those of skill in the art will appreciate that the present invention is not so limited. In particular, it is contemplated that embodiments of the present invention may be used with hoist apparatuses other than cable hoists, such as but not limited to hook hoists, bail hook hoists, winches, forklifts, and container handlers. Further, embodiments of the present invention may be used with hoist apparatuses that do not comprise a sub-frame, but rather which are intended to be secured directly to a vehicle frame. Likewise, embodiments of the invention also may be used with hoist apparatuses on vehicles other than trucks, or on hoist mechanisms that are not mounted on vehicles at all, such as trailers. Accordingly, as used herein, the term “vehicle” encompasses not just trucks, but any vehicle suitable for use with a hoist apparatus, including but not limited to trailers.

Turning now to the figures,FIG. 1is a perspective view of a hoist apparatus10coupled with a frame, or chassis,12of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention, andFIG. 2is a rear elevation view of hoist apparatus10coupled with frame12. For the sake of clarity, the vehicle is only partially illustrated inFIGS. 1-2.

As shown, hoist apparatus10is a cable hoist comprising a main frame14pivotably connected with a sub-frame16. As described in more detail below, sub-frame16is mounted to frame12. Main frame14is pivotably mounted to sub-frame16by pivotal mounts18. In the illustrated embodiment, hoist apparatus10is actuated via a pair of linear actuators20, such as hydraulic cylinders, which are pivotably mounted at one end to brackets22coupled with frame12and sub-frame16, and at the other end to main frame14via pivotal mounts24. As is well-understood, linear actuators20serve to elevate main frame14from a lowered, generally horizontal transporting position to a raised, inclined position used for the loading, unloading, and/or dumping of containers.

Referring now also toFIGS. 3-6, in which hoist apparatus10is shown without sub-frame16or frame14, hoist apparatus10in this embodiment further includes a cable winch system26which includes a cable28. Cable28of winch system26may be connected to a container, whereupon winch system26operates to draw the container up onto main frame14of hoist apparatus10during the loading of the container and to ease the container down the main frame14of hoist apparatus10during unloading of the container. Cable28may include a container attachment element30for attaching cable28to a container.

Certain details regarding systems and methods for coupling a hoist apparatus with a frame in accordance with embodiments of the present invention are provided with reference toFIGS. 7-25. In this regard,FIG. 7is an exploded perspective view of a securement system100in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Securement system100enables a hoist apparatus sub-frame102to be mounted on a frame104. Frame104may be a vehicle frame, trailer frame, or the like in various embodiments and comprise a pair of frame rails105. Frame rails105, which define a support surface adapted to receive and support a container or other item that is rolled or slid onto main frame104, are elongate beams having a “u” shaped cross-section, though frame rails105may have a variety of additional shapes in other embodiments. Likewise, in some embodiments, sub-frame102may not be provided, and instead a main frame of a hoist apparatus may be used. In various embodiments, it is contemplated that system100may be sold as a kit or after-market assembly, though it is also contemplated that system100could be sold with a vehicle.

In this embodiment, securement system100comprises an apron plate106, a pair of first brackets108, and a pair of second brackets110. As described in more detail below, suitable fasteners112may be used with securement system100to mount a hoist apparatus on frame104without cutting frame104or welding hoist apparatus sub-frame102to frame104. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that not all of these components may be included in all embodiments, and in some embodiments these components may be arranged differently with respect to each other than the arrangement shown inFIG. 7.

FIG. 8is a perspective view of hoist apparatus sub-frame102, andFIGS. 9-11are respective rear elevation, plan, and side elevation views of hoist apparatus sub-frame102. Sub-frame102in this embodiment comprises a pair of rails114extending longitudinally between a front end116that, when the hoist apparatus is installed, is proximate the front of a vehicle (e.g., a vehicle cab or a trailer hitch) and a rear end118that, when the hoist apparatus is installed, is proximate the rear of the vehicle. Rails114are formed of a suitable metal material, such as steel, and in some cases may be formed of hollow rectangular tubing. Rails114preferably are generally parallel with one another and spaced apart by a plurality of support members120that extend generally perpendicularly to rails114and that may be welded in place, for example on the bottom side of rails114, or otherwise suitably attached to rails114. Support members120in this embodiment comprise an elongate, generally flat metal strip, but any suitable support member may be used in other embodiments.

Also, hoist apparatus sub-frame102comprises an end plate122coupled between rails114at second end118. End plate122extends generally vertically along a plane orthogonal to the horizontal plane in which rails114lie in this embodiment. Further, pairs of flanges124coupled with and projecting orthogonally from end plate122may define attachment points for the main-frame of the hoist apparatus, and about which the main-frame may pivot relative to sub-frame102in this embodiment. A plurality of apertures126are preferably defined in end plate122to facilitate attachment of sub-frame102with frame104, as described in more detail below. For instance, eight such apertures126may be defined in end plate122, with four such apertures126spaced evenly about the attachment point of each rail114with end plate122.

Finally, hoist apparatus sub-frame102in this embodiment comprises a pair of support members128that extend generally parallel with rails114. As shown, support members128each extend between two support members120and are disposed adjacent to a respective rail114. Support members128may be welded in place or otherwise suitably attached to support members120and/or rails114. Again, in this embodiment support members128comprise an elongate, generally flat metal strip, but any suitable support member may be used in other embodiments. Support members128preferably define one or more slots130therein to facilitate attachment of sub-frame102to frame104. For instance, two such slots130are shown defined in each support member128in this embodiment. As described in more detail below, slots130may be elongated in a direction parallel the longitudinal axis of rails114. As a result, fasteners112may be moved to various different positions along the length thereof, as needed, depending on the dimensions of frame104and/or the dimensions and shape of frame rails105.

FIG. 12is an elevation view of apron plate106. Apron plate106, where provided, may provide strength and support to the hoist apparatus on frame104, for example as a main frame of the hoist apparatus moves relative to sub-frame102. Apron plate106may also provide a mounting structure for peripheral electronics associated with the hoist assembly. More particularly, apron plate106preferably comprises a generally flat plate, which may be rectangular in shape in some embodiments, formed from a suitable metal material. In one embodiment, apron plate106may be formed from A36 steel. Apron plate106may also have a shape other than rectangular in other embodiments. For instance, apron plate106could be oval-shaped or “u”-shaped in some embodiments. When system100is assembled, apron plate106may be disposed against the ends of frame rails105(FIG. 7) proximate the rear of the vehicle. Apron plate106may thus extend generally vertically in a plane perpendicular to a horizontal plane along which frame rails105lie in this embodiment. However, apron plate106need not be welded to frame104or sub-frame102.

Rather, with further reference toFIGS. 13-16, in one preferred embodiment, apron plate106is preferably configured to be held in place against frame rails105by first brackets108, which are described below, and by end plate122of sub-frame102. In this regard, first brackets108may be generally “T” shaped when viewed in plan and comprise a plate132from which a stem134projects. Stem134may be centered on an inner face136of plate132and may extend therefrom along a perpendicular plane, though this need not be the case in all embodiments. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that various dimensions of brackets108and the size, grade, and/or type of fasteners112used may vary in embodiments of the invention, for example depending on the intended load capacity of the associated hoist apparatus and its intended application (including the truck used, the type of hoist apparatus, etc.). In one embodiment, stem134of brackets108may be about ½″×4″×5¼″, and plate132of brackets108may be about ½″×10½″×8″, and both may be formed of A36 steel. Apron plate106preferably defines corresponding slots138that receive stems134therethrough. The height dimension of slots138preferably is about the same as or slightly greater than the height of stems134, but the width dimension of slots138preferably is greater than the width of stems134. As described in more detail herein, this permits stems134to be moved to various positions along the width of slots138, as needed, depending on the width of frame104and/or the dimensions and shape of frame rails105.

In one embodiment, one or more apertures140preferably are defined in stems134of first brackets108. Apertures140may be used to secure stems134(and thus, brackets108) to frame rails105of frame104. In particular, and for example, frame rails105may have a plurality of corresponding apertures142either pre-defined and/or formed therein during installation. In one embodiment, and given that the specifications and dimensions of frame104may vary, apertures142may be drilled into (or otherwise defined in) frame rails105to be in alignment with apertures140once first brackets108and apron plate106have been aligned with respect to frame104. Suitable fasteners112may then be inserted into apertures142,140to secure apron plate106and brackets108to frame104.

In alternative embodiment, stems134of first brackets108may be provided without pre-defined apertures140and thus may initially be “blank.” During installation, first brackets108are coupled with apron plate106and/or end plate122and, as described herein, stems134may be aligned with and disposed against frame rails105. Apertures140,142may then be defined (e.g., drilled or the like) at substantially the same time, and fasteners112may then be installed.

Additionally, in one embodiment, apron plate106may define a plurality of apertures144for receiving suitable fasteners. For example, four such apertures144are spaced about each of slots138in the embodiment shown inFIG. 12, though other suitable arrangements are contemplated. Likewise, in brackets108, a plurality of slots146may be defined in plate132. Preferably, the apertures144and slots146are equal in number to the apertures126defined in end plate122of sub-frame102. Further, apertures126and144and slots146preferably are all in alignment when a frame-facing face148of end plate122(FIG. 11) is in engagement with an outer face150of plate132of each bracket108and apron plate106is in engagement with inner face136of each bracket108. Thus, a fastener112may pass through each “set” of aligned apertures126,144, and slots146, and sub-frame102may then be secured to brackets108, apron plate106, and frame104.

In various embodiments, fasteners112may be bolts. Among many possibilities, suitable bolts may include hex bolts, huck bolts, carriage bolts, and shoulder bolts. In one embodiment, fasteners112may comprise ⅝″×2″ Grade 5 hex head bolts. Nonetheless, those of skill in the art will appreciate that fasteners other than bolts may be suitable in various embodiments. Also as noted above, those of skill in the art will appreciate that the type and grade of fasteners112used may vary in various applications and for various intended load capacities of the hoist apparatus. For higher load capacities, the diameter of fasteners112may be increased and the number of fasteners112used may increase.

Also, as best seen inFIGS. 13 and 15, slots146preferably are elongated horizontally, or generally parallel with a plane in which frame rails105may lie. This allows brackets108to move laterally in order to accommodate differing width dimensions of frame104and or the size and shape of frame rails105, as described above, without causing slots146to be out of alignment with apertures126,144such that a fastener112could not pass therethrough.

Finally, as shown inFIG. 12, apron plate106may comprise a plurality of apertures152defined therein. Apertures152may serve as mounting locations for peripheral electronics associated with the hoist apparatus. For instance, apertures152may be used to mount light assemblies on the hoist apparatus, such as brake light assemblies154shown inFIGS. 1-2. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that other apertures may be defined in apron plate106in various embodiments, as needed or desired, for example to install marker lights and/or light bar bumpers and/or to allow for adjustments.

Turning now toFIGS. 17-19, as noted above securement system100may also comprise a pair of second brackets110. In this regard,FIG. 17is a perspective view of a second brackets100.FIGS. 18-19are respective plan and side elevation views of one of the second brackets110. Second brackets110preferably provide additional points of attachment between frame104and sub-frame102. In some embodiments, second brackets110may further provide an attachment point for linear actuators (e.g., analogous to those shown inFIGS. 1-2).

In one preferred embodiment, each second bracket110comprises side plate156and a top plate158. Top plate158preferably is angled (e.g., at ninety degrees) with respect to side plate156. In one embodiment, side plate156and top plate158of each second bracket110may be formed from a single metal plate or sheet that is suitably bent, but those of skill in the art will appreciate that side plate156and top plate158need not be formed from a single piece of material in all embodiments.

Side plates156may be generally flat members having various shapes. As shown inFIGS. 17 and 19, for example, side plates156are pentagonal in this embodiment, but in other embodiments side plates156may be rounded, rectangular, or any other suitable shape. Also, as shown inFIG. 17, where side plates156are not symmetrical, brackets110are mirror images of each other to facilitate attachment to a respective side of frame104. Side plates156in this embodiment also comprise a connection surface160for a linear actuator, though that is not required in all embodiments. Connection surface160, which may project from side plates156, may define an aperture162that extends through side plate156. Aperture162may be sized to receive a shaft or other tubing via which one end of a linear actuator may be coupled with bracket110. Side plates110have an inner surface164configured to be disposed against frame rails105when sub-frame102is secured to frame104.

Top plates158also may be generally flat members having various shapes. As shown inFIGS. 17 and 18, for example, top plates158are rectangular in this embodiment, though again, in other embodiments top plates158may comprise any other suitable shape. Top plates158preferably are disposed beneath and in engagement with support members128of sub-frame102and disposed above and in engagement with frame rails105when system100is assembled (seeFIG. 23). In other words, in this embodiment, top plates158are disposed between sub-frame102and frame rails105when sub-frame102is secured to frame104. In other embodiments, however, top plates158may be disposed above support members128and/or may engage with a different portion of sub-frame102. Top plates158preferably define one or more slots166. For instance, as shown, two such slots166are defined in each top plate158in this embodiment. Slots166are positioned on a given top plate158to align with slots130in a corresponding support member128of sub-frame102when inner surface164is disposed against a corresponding frame rail105; sub-frame102is disposed on frame rails105; and top plate158is disposed over the corresponding support member128. In that regard, slots166may be elongated in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which slots130are elongated. The length and relative orientations of slots130,166allows these slots to remain in alignment for a variety of different frame104dimensions. Thus, a suitable fastener112may be inserted in a respective pair of slots130,166to attach brackets110to support members128of sub-frame102.

As noted above, components of securement system100may comprise slots to account for variations in length and/or width dimensions (or other design specifications) of frames104and/or frame rails105between vehicles and vehicle manufacturers. In general, such slots (e.g., slots130,146,166) may be defined to have a width sized to be equal to or just greater than the relevant dimension (e.g., diameter) of a fastener to be inserted in the slot, and a length that is greater than the fastener dimension (e.g., diameter) by some amount. Those of skill in the art can select a suitable length and width for a given slot based on expected variation in frame104dimensions. In one embodiment, however, the dimensions of slots130and slots146may be about 11/16″ diameter×1″ center-center, and the dimensions of slots166may be about 11/16″ diameter×¾″ center-center. Similarly, slots138in apron plate106may have a height dimension sized to be equal to or slightly greater than the height of stems134, and a width dimension that is greater than the width of stems134by some amount. Again, those of skill in the art can select a suitable length and width for slots138based on expected variation in frame104dimensions. In one embodiment, however, the dimensions of slots138may be about 2⅛″ wide×6⅜″ tall. Finally, in various embodiments, slots130,146,166need not be defined as a longitudinal aperture but rather may instead be defined in other shapes, such as circular apertures, oval apertures, or others familiar to those of ordinary skill in the art.

Assembly of system100according to an embodiment of the present invention is described with reference toFIGS. 7 & 20-23. In this regard,FIGS. 20-21are respective side elevation and plan views of the hoist apparatus sub-frame102coupled with the frame104.FIG. 22is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A-A inFIG. 20, andFIG. 23is a cross-sectional view taken along the line B-B inFIG. 20.

To assemble system100according to an embodiment of the invention, the following steps may be performed, though not necessarily in the order described. First, two brackets108may each be mechanically fastened with end plate122and apron plate106. In this regard, slots146of each bracket108may be placed in alignment with respective apertures126of end plate122and with respective apertures144of apron plate106. Likewise, stems134of each bracket108may be passed through slots138of apron plate106. Also, inner face136of plate132of each bracket108may be placed into engagement with apron plate106, and outer face150of plate132of each bracket108may be placed into engagement with end plate122of sub-frame102. (In some embodiments, intermediate elements, such as spacers or the like, could be provided between any of frame rails105, bracket108, apron plate106, and/or end plate122.) Fasteners122, which preferably are bolts as noted above, then may be passed through apertures126, slots146, and apertures144. In one preferred embodiment, nuts may be provided to retain fasteners122in place but may not be fully tightened at this time. Also, although brackets108are shown as being disposed between apron plate106and end plate122in this embodiment, in other embodiments end plate122may be disposed between apron plate106and brackets108. In the latter such embodiments, end plate122may have appropriate slots defined therein, for example analogous to slots138.

With reference toFIG. 22in particular, sub-frame102may be placed on frame rails105such that the longitudinal axis of sub-frame102is generally parallel with the longitudinal axis of frame rails105. Sub-frame102may be moved or adjusted lengthwise along frame rails105until apron plate106is in engagement with the end faces of each frame rail105. At this point, each stem134of each bracket108may extend along a plane that is parallel with the longitudinal axis of frame rails105. However, because the widths of various vehicle frames may vary, as explained above, stems134of each bracket108initially may not be in engagement with a respective frame rail105, but rather may be spaced laterally therefrom by some distance. Accordingly, the respective positions of brackets108may need to be adjusted laterally relative to each frame rail105and with respect to apron plate106and end plate122of sub-frame102. If fasteners122are not fully tightened, and by virtue of slots146, brackets108may be moved laterally until each stem134engages a respective frame rail105. (In the illustrated embodiment, stems134are shown in engagement with an internal face of frame rails105, but it will be appreciated that in other embodiments, stems134could be in engagement with an external face of frame rails105.) At this point, the positions where apertures142will need to be provided in frame rails105so that fasteners112may extend through frame rails105and apertures140in stems134may be marked, and such apertures142may be defined (e.g., drilled) in each frame rail105. (As noted above, in some embodiments, apertures140may not be pre-defined in stems134, and instead apertures140,142could be defined at substantially the same time.) Fasteners112, such as bolts, may then be passed through apertures142and140, and loosely secured in place, for example by providing nuts or the like thereon. Again, fasteners112may not be fully tightened at this time.

Similarly, two brackets110may be coupled with a respective frame rail105and with a respective support member128of sub-frame102. In this regard, and with reference toFIG. 23in particular, each top plate158may be disposed above a respective frame rail105and below a respective support member128and positioned such that slots166are generally aligned with corresponding slots130in support members128. Fasteners112may then be passed through slots130,166and secured with nuts or the like, though again the nuts may not be fully tightened at this time. As explained above, due to variations in the widths of frame rails105on various vehicles, side plates156of each bracket110initially may not be in engagement with a respective frame rail105. Accordingly, the respective positions of brackets110may need to be adjusted laterally relative to each frame rail105. Again if fasteners112are not fully tightened, and by virtue of slots166,130, brackets110may be moved laterally until each side plate156engages a respective frame rail105. (In some embodiments, intermediate elements, such as spacers or the like, could be provided between any of brackets110, frame rails105, and/or support members128.) Apertures168then may be defined (e.g., drilled) in each side plate156, and corresponding aligned apertures170may be defined (e.g., drilled) in each frame rail105. In various embodiments, apertures168and170may either be pre-defined or drilled at substantially the same time. Fasteners112, such as bolts, may then be passed through apertures168and170, and secured in place, for example by providing nuts or the like thereon. At this point, all other fasteners112that have not yet been fully tightened may be fully tightened. Thus, sub-frame102may be secured to frame rails105.

In various embodiments, and depending on the type of hoist apparatus involved, linear actuators may then be provided. For instance, if the hoist apparatus is a cable hoist as described above, a length of tubing may be provided through apertures162in side plates156, and one end of a respective linear actuator may be coupled with each end of the length of tubing. The main frame of the cable hoist may then be pivotably coupled with sub-frame102, and the other end of each respective linear actuator may then be coupled with suitable attachment points on the main frame. Of course, as noted above, in various embodiments, the hoist apparatus may be a hook hoist, loaded container handler, or any other suitable hoist apparatus, and such linear actuators may not be provided in all embodiments.

As noted above, many other securement system embodiments are contemplated and within the scope of the invention. Referring now toFIGS. 24-25, for example, a system200for securing a hoist apparatus sub-frame202to a vehicle frame in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. In this regard,FIG. 24is a perspective view of system200.FIG. 25is an exploded perspective view of system200. In this embodiment, the hoist apparatus having sub-frame202may also be a cable hoist, and sub-frame202may be analogous to sub-frame16of hoist apparatus10discussed above with reference toFIGS. 1-2. Sub-frame202may also be similar in many respects to sub-frame102discussed in detail above, and thus only certain differences between sub-frames102,202are explained below.

As shown inFIGS. 24-25, in this embodiment, sub-frame202may comprise an apron plate204, rather than apron plate204being a separate component. Also, an end-plate206may be separately coupled with sub-frame202during installation, rather than being part of sub-frame202. More particularly, in this embodiment apron plate204is generally rectangular in shape, but defines an angled cut-out portion208to allow for clearance of cables210used with the hoist apparatus. End plate206similarly is generally rectangular in shape but also defines an angled cut out portion212. Sub-frame202may comprise two longitudinal sub-frame rails214, and apron plate204may depend from sub-frame rails214. In this embodiment, apron plate204may extend along a plane that is perpendicular to a plane in which sub-frame rails214lie.

System200in this embodiment also comprises brackets216, which generally may be analogous to brackets108described above. In this embodiment, however, the plates218of brackets216may be modified as shown to have a shape the outline of which corresponds to the cutout portions208,210of apron plate204and end-plate206when system200is assembled. It will also be appreciated that plates218of brackets216may have other shapes in other embodiments.

In this embodiment, end plate206may be coupled with brackets216and apron plate204of sub-frame202via suitable fasteners220. Fasteners220may be analogous to fasteners112described above. As with apron plate106above, apron plate204in this embodiment defines slots220therein to receive stems of brackets216. Likewise, brackets218in this embodiment preferably define a plurality of slots that correspond to apertures defined in apron plate204and end plate206, through which fasteners220may pass to couple end plate206, brackets218, and apron plate204together. Accordingly, and as with system100described above, in system200brackets218may be adjusted laterally relative to apron plate204and end plate206to accommodate various width vehicle frames.

FIG. 26is a perspective view of a hoist apparatus sub-frame300of a hoist apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention. Sub-frame300preferably is analogous in some respects to sub-frame102described in detail above, and like parts are indicated with like reference numerals. In various embodiments of the invention, where slots or apertures are provided, any number of such slots or apertures may be provided as needed or desired to accommodate a variety of different vehicle dimensions. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, four apertures130are defined in each support member128. Additionally, in this embodiment, sub-frame300comprises a pair of support members302disposed at front end116and which extend generally parallel with rails114. Support members302, which may comprise a generally elongate, flat metal strip, project laterally outwardly from rails114in this embodiment. Support members302may be used as mounting brackets for a variety of components, such as a valve assembly304associated with a vehicle's hydraulic system and/or a hydraulic oil tank306(seeFIGS. 30-31).

FIG. 27is a perspective view of an apron assembly308according to an embodiment of the invention. Apron assembly308comprises an apron plate310that is preferably analogous in some respects to apron plate106described in detail above, and thus like parts are indicated with like reference numerals. In this embodiment, apron assembly308comprises a pair of tabs312. Tabs312, which are preferably welded or otherwise suitably attached to apron plate310along an upper edge314thereof, project from apron plate310along a plane that is generally perpendicular with a plane on which apron plate310lies. Tabs312may be at the same height as upper edge314or may be above or below than upper edge314in various embodiments. In this embodiment, apron plate310may also define a pair of apertures316to allow passage of wiring, e.g., associated with light bars that may be coupled with apron plate310.

As those of skill in the art will appreciate, tabs312may facilitate installation of a securement system in some embodiments. In this regard, tabs312preferably are spaced along upper edge314such that they may rest on each frame rail during and after apron assembly308is installed on a vehicle frame. Tabs312thus may serve to locate apron plate310and to hold it in place relative to the vehicle frame while the other components of the securement system are installed.

FIG. 28is a perspective view of a first bracket318in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. First bracket318preferably is analogous in some respects to one of first brackets108described in detail above, and thus like parts are indicated with like reference numerals. As noted above, in some embodiments, first brackets108may not have pre-defined apertures140, and such apertures140may be drilled simultaneously with apertures in the frame rails during installation. Thus, as shown inFIG. 28, first bracket318comprises a “blank” stem134in which no apertures are pre-defined.

FIG. 29is a perspective view of a pair of second brackets320in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Second brackets320preferably are analogous in some respects to second brackets110described in detail above, and thus like parts are indicated with like reference numerals. As with other components of securement assemblies in various embodiments, the second brackets may be modified in various ways to accommodate varying dimensions between vehicles. Thus, for example, in the illustrated embodiment second brackets320comprise side plates156that are rounded. Here, side plates156comprise an indented portion322that may better fit certain vehicle frames. Also, top plates158in this embodiment may each define four slots166to accommodate various vehicle frames. Further, the interior, or frame-facing, faces of side plates156of each second bracket320may comprise a tab324projecting therefrom. Tabs324may be used to facilitate installation of a shaft that extends between second brackets320. As a final example, second brackets320may each comprise a hoist prop326coupled therewith. Hoist props326preferably comprise prop bars328pivotably coupled with side plates156via a mounting bracket330. Those of skill in the art are familiar with hoist props and other similar hoist apparatus safety devices. Typically, such devices may be welded to the vehicle frame or another component during installation of the hoist apparatus. However, providing hoist props326on second brackets320in this embodiment ensures that an operator or installer does not have to perform any welding, even with respect to safety devices, during installation of a hoist device using this securement system.

FIGS. 30-31are perspective and rear elevation views of a hoist apparatus350coupled with a frame352of a vehicle354according to an embodiment of the invention. For the sake of clarity, the vehicle is only partially illustrated in these figures. Vehicle354as shown is used with the sub-frame300ofFIG. 26, the apron plate310ofFIG. 27, the first brackets318ofFIG. 28, and the second brackets320ofFIG. 29. In some respects, vehicle354is analogous to the vehicle shown inFIGS. 1-2, and thus other like parts are indicated by like reference numerals.

Based on the foregoing, it will be appreciated that embodiments of the invention provide improved systems and methods for securing a hoist apparatus to a vehicle frame. Indeed, in the past, hoist apparatuses used for lifting and transporting waste containers weighing thousands of pounds were secured to vehicle frames at least in part by welding, if not also using other means. It was believed that welding was necessary for the hoist apparatuses to be adequately secured to the vehicle frame while handling such heavy containers. However, embodiments of the present invention, which do not require welding, may be used in not only “typical duty” applications (e.g., those involving containers weighing up to 30,000 lbs), but also heavy duty applications, including those that require loading, unloading, transporting, and emptying containers weighing up to 75,000 lbs.