A MOVEABLE, LOAD-SUPPORTING APPARATUS

Abstract: In the field of materials handling, there is a need for a versatile shelving/storage apparatus which also serves as a transport mechanism. The disclosure relates to a movable, storage apparatus which includes a frame (11), a plurality of load trays (14) suspended from transverse rods (19) which interconnect pairs of movable members in the form of e.g. discs (18) or oval belts (28). The discs (18) or belts (28) are supported in the frame (11) for selective movement. The trays (14) are self-levelling under gravity, in a preferred embodiment of the invention. The apparatus includes a drive means (24) and a brake (26) whereby movement of the trays can be controlled. The advantage of the apparatus is that trays may readily be moved within the apparatus to a convenient position for loading, and subsequently moved to a remote portion of the apparatus during storage and/or transportation. The disclosure also relates to an apparatus (110) for moveably supporting e.g. a plurality of chemical drums such as 60 litre drums (137).

Description: A Moveable, Load-Supporting Apparatus This invention relates to a moveable, load-supporting apparatus. Such apparatuses are required, for example, in factories, warehouses, storage areas and trans-shipment areas. It is frequently required to store products, stock, etc. on a temporary basis such that the stock, etc. is not at the front of a shelving or storage area, but such that it can be readily brought to the front of such a storage area for further processing, transportation or other operations. Hitherto, such operations have involved the use of at least two pieces of apparatus, namely a shelving unit and stacker truck fforklift truck). If an item is to be stored, it is necessary for the stacker truck driver to lift it on the forks of his stacker truck and position it at the rear of (perhaps an upper level) of a shelving unit. Other, more important items may then be placed in front of the items initially stored. Therefore, if it subsequently becomes necessary to gain access to the initially-stored item, it is necessary to remove all the subsequently-stored items before access to the desired item can be gained. Obviously, the use of a stacker truck is associated with numerous disadvantages. For instance, stacker trucks are expensive to buy. They are also expensive to operate because they generally run on batteries which require regular recharging. Moreover, the risk of accidents when using stacker trucks is high, and the range of locations in a shelving unit which the forks of a stacker truck may safely reach is frequently limited. Moreover, any shelving to be used with a stacker truck generally has to be of at least a semi-permanent nature requiring anchoring and time-consuming construction/maintenance. A solution to such problems of materials handling has been to provide a vertically and horizontally moveable lift secured tc appropriate shelving, or to provide a gantry moveable in the spaces between rows of shelving to provide access to shelves at different vertical and horizontal positions. However, such solutions involve the construction of permanent shelving together with permanent lift means or gantry assemblies. Such solutions are therefore expensive, and lack versatility as regards re-positionmg of the shelving, etc. According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a moveable, load supporting apparatus comprising: a frame means including at least one floor or ground engaging means for supporting the apparatus on a floor or the ground, said means being adapted to permit the free movement of the apparatus when supported on a floor or the ground; a load platform supported relative to the frame means; means interconnecting the frame means and the load platform whereby the load platform is simultaneously vertically and horizontally moveable relative to the frame means; and means whereby the load platform is maintained generally noπzontal or in another desired orientation, regardless of the position of the platform relative to the frame means. An aαvantage of this apparatus is that the load platform may be configured to be moveable to a first location in which it is accessible to an operator. In such a position, the load platform may readily and safely receive items to be stored or transported. The load platform may subsequently be moved to a position away from the loading position, whereby the items placed on the load platform are temporarily stored. This feature obviates the need for a stacker truck to store items in a remote region of the load supporting apparatus. The fact that the apparatus is moveable means that it doubles as a transportation mechanism, and additionally the apparatus may readily be rotated to permit access to items stored at the rear thereof without the need for further moving of the load platform. Preferably, the means interconnecting the frame means and the load platform includes a member to which the platform is attached, said member being moveable such that the locus of the point of attacnment of the platform defines an arc on movement of the member. Conveniently, the locus is generally circular. Optionally, the member itself may be generally circular. Alternatively, the locus may be generally elliptical. Optionally, the member may be generally elliptical. These arrangements provide advantages in that simple components (such as a disc or an oval or otherwise shaped belt) may be used to form part of the means interconnecting the frame means and the load platform. Optionally, the member is generally rigid. Alternatively, the member may be generally flexible. In preferred embodiments of the invention, when the member is constituted as a circular disc it is constructed from a πgiα material. When the member is constituted as an oval belt, it is constructed from a flexible material. Preferably the member includes a flexible belt, chain, or like member having an attachment point thereon for the platform, the belt being constrameα to move in a path whicn causes tne attacnment point to follow a generally arcuate locus. Conveniently, the means whereby the platform is maintained generally horizontal includes means permitting the load platform to level under gravity. This advantageously makes the apparatus cheap and simple to construct. Preferably, the apparatus includes a plurality of load platforms supported relative to the frame means. Thus, the apparatus may support and optionally transport a number of items, or different types of items. Preferably, the means interconnecting the or a load platform and the frame means includes a pair of laterally spaced members aαapted to support the or a load platform at respective points thereon. This feature allows the apparatus to be constructed as a robust item. Conveniently, the apparatus includes one or more wheel or roller means secured to the frame means, wnereby the apparatus may readily be moved. Furthermore, the apparatus may include means for controllably moving the load platform vertically and horizontally relative to the frame means. Such means may optionally include a moveable hand crank, a drive tram aαapted to transfer drive from the hand crank to the means for interconnecting the frame means and the load platform; and a brake for the drive tram. Alternatively, sucn means may include a motor means and a drive tram adapted to transfer drive from the motor means for interconnecting the frame means and the load platform. Conveniently, the frame means includes two separate parts and the apparatus includes a pair of means respectively interconnecting the or a load platform and one of the parts of the frame means. It is also preferable for the load platform to be adapted to extend laterally of the frame means to permit said load platform to overhang e.g. a workbench or conveyor belt. Thus, the apparatus of the invention may be aαvantageously suited for use in manufacturing production lines. The apparatus defined above allows a load tray or platform to be presented at operator waist height, thereby minimising the risk of injury to operators when they put objects on and off the trays. Once a tray is full, it can be rotated on e.g. the discs to a storage position. This automatically brings further trays to a working location. Such apparatus is highly advantageous, but it is always necessary for an operator to place objects onto the load trays. Therefore, the apparatus is of limited utility when it is desired, e.g., to pick a heavy object up from the floor. According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a moveable, load supporting apparatus comprising: a load bearing structure; a securable load supporting means supported relative to the load bearing structure; means interconnecting the load bearing structure ana the load supporting means, whereby the load supporting means, and hence any load supported thereby, is simultaneously vertically and Horizontally moveable relative to the load bearing structure; and means whereby the load supporting means is automatically maintained generally horizontal, or in another desired orientation, during movement of the load supporting means, regardless of the position of the load supporting means relative to the load bearing structure, wherein the load bearing structure includes a base portion and a superstructure, the position of tne superstructure relative to the base portion being adjustable in at least a vertical direction by virtue of jack means operative between the base portion and the superstructure, the load supporting means being supported on the superstructure and the arrangement being such that the load supporting means may be secured to a load disposed at a first, lower level and may lift it to a second, higher level on operation of the jack means to raise the superstructure relative to the base portion. Using this arrangement, an object resting, e.g., on a floor can be secured to the supporting means when the superstructure occupies its lower position. Subsequently, the superstructure can be raised to its second position thereby lifting the object off the floor. Thereafter, the object can be moved on the load supporting apparatus by virtue of the interconnecting means, permitting work to be carried out on the object or the object to be stored on the apparatus. Additionally, the apparatus itself can be moved whilst carrying the object or when empty. Preferably, the apparatus includes means whereby the orientation of the load supporting means may selectively be altered to an orientation different from that which it automatically adopts. This feature is of benefit when the apparatus is configured to grip and support, e.g., open- topped drums the contents of which an operator may desire to pour. Conveniently, the means interconnecting the load bearing structure and the load supporting means includes a member to which the load supporting means is pivotably attached, the member being moveable such that the locus of the point of attachment of the load supporting means is circular. The provision of a circular locus for the point of attachment of the load supporting means ensures that, on moving of the load supporting means to e.g. a storage position on the apparatus the path followed by the load is efficient in the sense that it travels an equal distance vertically and horizontally, thereby permitting the load rapidly and safely to clear the working position. Conveniently, the load supporting means is freely rotatable relative to said member, whereby the load supporting means and any load carried thereby tend to adopt a generally horizontal orientation under gravity. This feature is advantageous particularly when the apparatus is configured to support open-topped drums containing liquids. If the drums are self-levelling, there is a reduced danger of spillage of their contents. - o - In preferred embodiments of the invention, the means whereby the orientation of the load supporting means may selectively be altered includes a further member, e.g. a wheel, in driving engagement with the load supporting means, whereby on application of force to the further member the load supporting means is rotated out of its horizontal orientation. Thus, the load supporting means and hence the load supported thereby may readily be tilted, e.g. for pouring the contents of a drum. Conveniently, the ack means includes first and second rigid links pivotably secureα at their respective ends to the base portion and the superstructure, the links being laterally spaced from one another; a member driving engagement with one of the links or the superstructure, wnereby a lifting force may be applied with mechanical advantage to raise the superstructure relative to the base portion in a curved path constrained by the pivoting motion of the links from a first, lower position in which the links lie below and to one side of their respective top dead centre positions and a second, raised position on the opposite side of said top dead centre position; and means e.g. an abutment limiting the movement of said links on said opposite side of the top dead centre position to a predetermined distance thereby to support the superstructure m its raised position. This arrangement is advantageously simple to construct and operate. Moreover, this arrangement of features may readily be operated in the reverse direction to lower the superstructure relative to the base portion. The use of an over centre arrangement means that accidental operation of the jacks (e.g. when the apparatus is carrying a heavy load) is hindered or even prevented. Preferably, the means interconnecting the load bearing structure and the load supporting means includes a pair of spaced members; and the loaα supporting means includes first and second spaced jaws secureα respectively on said members, the spacing between the jaws being selectively adjustable thereby to grip an object. This feature allows the apparatus to grip and support objects of varying sizes and shapes. It is further preferable that the apparatus includes a shaft rigidly secured relative to the second jaw and extending generally towards the first aw; and a rigid link member extending from the first jaw, the link member including an aperture or recess adapteα to receive the shaft, whereby the link member is slideable relative to the shaft to ensure mutual alignment of the jaws during adjustment of the load supporting means. This feature ensures that the object is gripped symmetrically, thereby reducing the possibility of mis-nandlmg of objects. Possible alternative load supporting means include e.g. switchable electromagnets; forks or other projections adapted to engage appropriately shaped projections or recesses in loads; tightenable gripping hoops or bands; or hooks. In preferred embodiments of the invention, the means interconnecting the load bearing structure and the load supporting means is preferably pivotably secured on the frame means. This allows an advantageously simple construction of the apparatus. In particularly preferred embodiments, the apparatus includes a plurality of load supporting means adapted to support a corresponding plurality of loads. The load supporting means are preferably distributed about the periphery of a disc-like member interconnecting the load bearing structure and the load supporting means. Preferably, the means interconnecting the load bearing structure and the load supporting means is selectively removable from the apparatus. This feature advantageously allows the interconnecting means, the load supporting means and optionally one or more loads to be removed as a cartridge or bobbin-like assembly, e.g. for storage purposes. The cartridge or bobbin-like assembly can if desired be stored e.g. on a storage stand capable of receiving one or a plurality of bobbin or cartridge-like structures. Alternatively, the bobbin or cartridge-like assemblies can be detached from the apparatus and temporarily be installed in a stand forming part or associated with e.g. a production line. In the most preferred (but not essential) embodiment of the invention, the apparatus is configured and sized to support at least one 60 litre drum. Preferably, the apparatus is configured to support four such drums. However, embodiments may be constructed that support any number of objects of various sizes. It is further preferable, respect of either aspect of the invention, for the apparatus to include at least one laterally extending support leg or foot. Furthermore, the apparatus may optionally be adapted to support a plurality of means as aforesaid for interconnecting, and a corresponding plurality of load platforms and/or load supporting means. Thus, the invention relates to a versatile storage and/or transportation αevice, which may be constructed to virtually any size. A particular aαvantage of the invention is that it may be configured to allow the safe loading and/or transportation of light or heavy items without the need for a stacker driver and without the operator of the apparatus contravening health and safety regulations concerning lifting of heavy items. In particular, the apparatus may be configureα such that the load platform(s) may readily be presented at waist height, to allow the loading and unloading of items. There now follows a description of five preferred embodiments of the invention, by way of example, with reference being made to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a side elevational view of a first embodiment of the invention; Figure 2 is an end elevational view of the embodiment of Figure 1; Figure 3 is a side elevational view of a second embodiment of the invention; Figure 4 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the invention; Figure 5 is a side elevational view of a fourth embodiment of the invention; Figure 6 is an end elevational view of the embodiment of Figure 5; Figure 7 is a plan view of one of the load platforms of the embodiment of Figures 5 and 6; Figure 8 is a side elevational view of a fifth embodiment of the apparatus in accordance with the invention; Figure 9 is an end elevational view of the apparatus of Figure 8; Figure 10 is a top plan view of one of the load gripping arrangements of the embodiment of Figures 8 and 9; and Figure 11 is a front elevational view of the components of Figure 10 (with some of the components omitted for clarity). Referring firstly to Figures 1 and 2, a moveable, load supporting apparatus is indicated generally by the reference numeral 10. The apparatus 10 includes a frame 11. Frame 11 includes a plurality of base members 11a secured together in a ladder-form or rectangular construction; two pairs of inclineα members lib extenαmg upwardly from the assembly of base members 11a at an angle, to converge at respective apexes lie disposed on either side of the apparatus 10; a pair of upπgnt members lid disposeα respectively on opposite sides of the apparatus and interconnecting the respective apexes lie and the base assembly 11a; at least a pair of outwardly extending, horizontal members lie extending from the apex lie on at least one side of the apparatus towards the ends thereof; and respective strut members llf interconnecting the approximate mid-pomt (or optionally any other convenient attachment point) of each horizontally extending member lie and the adjacent upwardly extending member lib. Thus, it will be seen that the frame is a rigid item. In particular, the apexes lie are strongly supported. The base assembly 11a includes secured to the underside thereof a plurality of castors 12. In the embodiment shown, four castors are present. However, other configurations are possible. The castors permit movement of the frame means and hence the apparatus. The extremities of the horizontally extending members lie eacn include a respective hand grip 13, whereby the frame means and hence the apparatus may be pulled, pushed or steered on its castors 12. The handgrips may alternatively be secured to any other convenient member. The apparatus 10 of Figure 1 includes a plurality of load platforms 14 supported relative to the frame means 11. Each platform 14 consists of a generally flat tray having an optional edge lip. A pair of triangular support struts, cables or other members 16 extends mclmedly upwardly from the respective ends of each tray 14 to meet at an apex 17 from which each tray 14 may be suspended. In practice, pairs of such suspenders 16 are provided at eacn end of each tray 14, whereby each tray 14 may be suspended at either end thereof. Whilst the use of pairs of suspenders is preferred because it results in greater stability of the load platform, the apparatus can be manufactured employing either single or multiple suspenders. The trays 14 are suspended from a member which interconnects the frame means 11 and the load platforms 14. In the embodiment of Figure 1, this means is constituted as a pair of laterally spaced, equi-sized, concentric discs 18. A plurality of rods 19 interconnect the respective discs 18 in the space between them at common levels, whereby the suspenders 16 of the trays 14 may be hung over the rods 19 to suspend the trays 14. In the embodiment shown, the trays 14 are suspended loosely such that they are self-levelling under gravity when there is no other external force applied to them. It will be realised that the suspenders 16 need not adopt the triangular configuration shown. For instance, if pairs of the rods 19 are provided for each load platform, the suspenders may define a square with the rods 19 if the suspenders are respectively attached to different rods 19. The two discs 18 are rigidly joined together by a central shaft 21 extending along their common axis. Shaft 21 is supported in respective yokes, pillow blocks or bearings at the respective apexes lie. The support for shaft 21 is such that the discs 18 are simultaneously rotatable. One end of the shaft 21 has rigidly secured thereto a gear wheel 22. A further gear wheel 23 is provided in meshing engagement with gear wheel 22. Gear wheel 23 is rotatably secured on one of the frame members lie, offset a short distance from the axis of support and rotation of the discs 18. A cranked handle 24 is secured to gear wheel 23 to cause rotation thereof. The shaft of cranked handle 24 connected to gear wheel 23 passes through a non-rotatable braking disc 26 secured to the frame 11 generally parallel to the plane of rotation of handle 24. Braking disc 26 has formed therein a series of peripheral apertures 27. Handle 24 includes a spring-loaded pin sized and positioned to engage an adjacent one of the apertures 27, depending on the rotational position of handle 24 (and hence the discs 18). The pin (not snown in the drawings) is releasable from the respective aperture 27 in wnich it may be seated. Therefore, the handle 24, disc 26 and the aperture 27 constitute a braking mechanism for the drive train constituted by the gear wheels 22 and 23. It will thus be appreciated that the discs 18 may selectively be rotated by firstly releasing the pin from the apertures 27 ana secondly rotating the handle 24 a desired amount before allowing the pin to seat in a further aperture 27. In use of the apparatus, the handle 24 is rotated to position an empty tray 14 at approximately the waist height of an operator of the apparatus. Items may then be loaded onto the tray 14, whicn by virtue of its pivotable suspension from a respective rod 19 is self-levelling. It should be realised, however, that the tray need not be so configured as always to provide a horizontal load platform. For instance, if the load platform 14 includes a comparatively deep, bucket-like portion, it may be advantageous for the base of such a portion not to be horizontal when loaded. An alternative braking arrangement is tc provide a foot operated "dead man's brake" mechanism adjacent the base of the apparatus, at one end thereof. The arrangement would preferably be such that the load platforms 14 are only movable while a foot pedal is depressed. If such a braking arrangement is provided, the braking disc 26 could be dispensed with and the cranked handle 24 positioned at the same end of the apparatus as the "dead man's brake", for ease of operation. Obviously, a longer gear or other drive tram interconnecting the handle 24 and the shaft 21 would then be needed. Once the tray 14 has been filled to a desired extent, handle 24 may be further operated the manner previously described to bring a further tray 14 to waist heignt for further loading. Thus, the initially loaded tray 14 will move to a location further away from the loading position. This process may be repeated until a desired number of items has been stored on a desired number of trays of the apparatus. Unloading is a reverse of the above described procedure. It will be appreciated that any particular tray may readily be selected simply by rotation of the cranked handle 24 to bring the tray m question to a suitable height and position to permit unloading. Furthermore, since the apparatus is moveable on the castors 12, the apparatus may be parked in a row of such apparatuses for semi-permanent storage of the items on the trays 14. Additionally, the apparatus may be rotated on the castors 12 to permit access to trays on either side of tne apparatus. Therefore, the apparatus of the invention is particularly versatile. Furthermore, it is possible to configure the apparatus such that, as the pin of handle 24 seats in each aperture 27, a respective tray 14 is presented at waist height for ready loading/unloading. Therefore, the risk of back injury occasioned by attempts to lift heavy objects above waist height is virtually eliminated. The fact that rotation of the handle 24 causes simultaneous vertical and horizontal movement of the trays 14 means that stored items are automatically moved to "remote" parts of the apparatus as further trays are manoeuvred position for loading. Thus, the available storage space provided by the apparatus is useα efficiently. As shown in Figure 1, the discs 18 include a series of peπpneral, arcuate apertures 31. These are optional features which permit "fine tuning" of the positions of the trays if desired, for instance when it is required to level one of the trays to, eg., the tail gate of a vehicle. In practice, the discs 18 are constructed as spoked wheels having peripheral rims, and discs to cover the spokes except in the regions of the apertures 31. It is considered that this arrangement minimises the possibility of injury caused by accidental entrapment of body parts in the spokes. An alternative arrangement is to construct the discs 18 as one-piece items, e.g. by pressing an appropriate disc from steel. Turning now to Figure 3, there is shown a second embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, the laterally extending members lie and the handles 13 have been omitted for clarity. However, this embodiment may include such features if desired. The embodiment of Figure 3 differs from that of Figure 1 in that the vertically extending frame members lid on either side of the apparatus extend beyond the positions of the respective apexes 17 in the embodiment of Figure 1. Thus, the frame means 11 of the embodiment of Figure 3 resembles a pair of gallows-like constructions interconnected by a common base 11a. An optional modification to the apparatus of Figure 3 is to dispense with means interconnecting the base members 11a and provide one or more (preferably, but not necessarily, rigid) members interconnecting the two halves of the apparatus higher up the framework. This modification may allow the apparatus to negotiate obstacles protruding upwardly from the surface on which it travels. Instead of having a pair of disc-like members of rigid construction, as in the case of Figures 1 and 2, the means interconnecting the trays 14 and the frame 11 is constituted as a pair of flexible, drivable belts 28 constrained to run in respective guide tracks 29 secured to the frame members lib on either side of the apparatus. Alternative support means for the belts may be provided which obviate the need for guide tracks. The belts may enclose any member referred to above for interconnecting the two halves of the apparatus. A drive means (not shown) may be provided whereby the belts 28 may be rotated to manoeuvre the trays 14 to desired locations in the apparatus. The presence of the rods 19 from which the trays 14 are suspended means that the drive belts move in synchronism with one another, and only a single drive means engaged with one of the belts is required. Additional means for ensuring synchronous operation of the drive belts may be employed. As used herein, the term "belt" is intended to embrace any drivable, flexible construction such as a flexible or semi-rigid belt, a chain, a dog chain, etc. It will be appreciated that the embodiment of Figure 3 is capable of accommodating a greater number of trays 14 than the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2. This is because the greater height of the apparatus of Figure 3 may be used for storage of additional trays 14. Referring now to Figure 4, there is shown a fourth embodiment of the invention. This embodiment is similar to that of Figure 3, except that the frame 11 is separated at the base region 11a, and elongate trays 14 are provided interconnecting the two resulting parts of the apparatus. The principle of operation of the embodiment of Figure 4 is similar to that of Figure 3, although on movement of the apparatus care must be taken to ensure that the two parts of the apparatus do not induce twisting or tilting of the trays 14. Additionally, the embodiments of Figure 4 may be unstable l αependmg on the rigidity of the trays 14 and the support means therefor on the belts [not shown in Figure 4]). Additional stabiliser means may be needed to prevent the two halves of the frame 11 from falling over. In the embodiment of Figure 4 the interconnecting rods 19 are not present. Instead, the suspenders 16 are pivotably suspended from pins wnich protrude from the respective belts 28. Thus, the trays 14 are supported at either end as in the previous two embodiments. Referring now to Figures 5 and 7, there is shown an embodiment of the invention including various features that may optionally also be present in the other embodiments described herein. In the embodiment of Figures 5 to 7, the gear wheels 22 and 23 have been replaced by a gearbox 35 that is secured on member lie such that its output shaft 35 is integral with or dπvmgly connected to the support shaft 21. Gearbox 35 has an input shaft 37 generally at right angles to shaft 21, and gearbox 35 includes appropriate gear members for transferring απve from the input shaft 37 to drive at the support shaft 21. There are numerous arrangements of gearbox components for achieving this result that will be known to those skilled in the art. Input shaft 37 is dπvingly connected to a shaft extension 38 that extends to the left in the embodiment shown in Figure 5. Shaft extension 38 terminates in a rotatable handwheel 39 having an off-centre, preferably rotatable handle 40, and the arrangement is such that rotation of handwheel 39 (by means of handle 40) causes geareα rotation of the shaft 2 and hence of the discs 18. The discs 18 and frame 11 of the embodiment of Figures 5 to 7 are constructed slightly differently from their counterparts in the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, being exemplary of the many ways in which the invention may be embodied in practice. If the gearbox 35 and shaft extension 38 are present, it is comparatively important for the member lie to constitute a rigid platform for the supporting and securing thereon of gearbox 35, and for the supporting from below in bearing 41 secured on a support post 42 of the otherwise free end of shaft extension 38. Two further, optional features of the invention shown in figure 5 are: (i) a pull handle that is pivotably secured at its lower end 45a to the transverse member interconnecting the lower, side rails 11a, whereby the apparatus may be pulled along; and (n) one or more brakes such as foot operated friction brake 47 operable on the periphery of one or more of the castors 12. Yet a further, optional feature shown in the embodiment of Figures 5 to 7 is the subdivision of the load platforms 14 into a plurality of zones 14a, 14b, 14c as shown in Figure 7, by means of a plurality of spaceα, upstanding walls 48 extending from front to back on the upper surfaces of the trays 14. The presence of four such walls 48 per platform subdivides each platform into three zones, although more or fewer walls 48 may be employed if desired. Furthermore, optional front and rear upstanding lips or edge walls 50 may extend partially or wholly along the front and rear of the platforms to assist in retaining objects within the subdivided zones. As an example, the embodiment of Figures 5 to 7 is snown supporting a plurality of paint tins 51 (shown in the αotted lines) the zones of the load platforms. The modifications and optional features shown Figures 5 to 7 may be included in any of the embodiments described herein, either singly or in plural form if appropriate. It will be appreciated that in embodiments where the rods 19 extend to interconnect the two sides of the apparatus, the trays 14 may additionally be supported by further suspenders placed at intermediate points along the lengths of the trays 14. Equally, in each of the embodiments of Figures 1, 2 and 3, rods 19 extending across the entire width of the apparatus may be dispensed with and the trays 14 may be supported on pins performing a similar function. However, in such cases :t may be necessary to provide further means for ensuring that the respective discs or belts (as appropriate) move in synchronism with one another. As an alternative to the cranked handle 24 or the gearbox arrangement described above, the drive tram of the embodiments may optionally be connected to an electric, pneumatic or other kind of motor. Suitable drive transferring means may be employed. Additionally, the apparatus as a whole may be motoπsed to facilitate transportation of items from place to place whilst on the trays 14. The frame members 11 of the embodiments shown are constructed from, eg., mild steel, by welding. This provides a particularly rigid and robust construction. However, numerous fixing means well known in the art of metal fabrication may alternatively be employed. Moreover, a great variety of materials, including plastics, timber and other metals, may be used in the construction of apparatus according to the invention. Referring to Figures 8 to 11 the drawings, there is shown a further embodiment of a moveable load supporting apparatus indicated generally by the reference numeral 110 including a load bearing structure 111 constituted by a plurality of interconnected frame members 112, 113. The apparatus 110 includes four (in the embodiment shown ι load supporting, gripping assemblies in the form of adjustable clamps 114. The clamps 114 and the frame members 113 are interconnected by a pair of frameworks 116 each made up of rigidly interconnected members 116a-116f. The frameworks 116 lie vertically and are horizontally spaced from one another in a region between the top rails 113h of the load supporting structure 11. Each framework 116 is formed as a square. The two squares are maintained in register with one another and are synchronously rotatable about a horizontal axis passing through their aligned centres. As will be described below, the clamps 114 each include respective clamp jaws 125, 126. The clamp jaws 125, 126 are respectively secured laterally spaced from one another at the apexes of the square frameworks 116. The frameworks 116 are mounted on common shaft 115 which is rotatably mounted at either end in bearings such as bearing 120 shown secured to the left hand top rail 113. Thus, the frameworks 116 are rotatable relative to the remainder of the apparatus 110. The clamps 114 are rotatably mounted relative to the frameworks 116. The clamps 114 can be moved to any position on a pitch circle defined by the apexes of the frameworks 116 by virtue of rotation of the frameworks. Additionally, the clamps 114 will tend always to adopt the same orientation relative to the remainder of the apparatus 110 by virtue of their freely pivotable fixing to the frameworks 116. The ma frame is sub-divided into two portions, le. a base portion constituted by the members labelled 112 and a superstructure constituted by the members labelled 113. The base portion 112 includes three generally horizontal members 112a, 112c, 112d that are joined together at their ends at right angles to define a U-shaped member, with the base of the U at the right hand end of the apparatus as shown Figure 8. The superstructure comprises two side sub-frames spaced laterally from one another. The sub-frame visible in Figure 8 is constituted by members 113a to 113h. The sub-frame on the opposite side of the apparatus (not visible in Figure 8 but visible in Figure 9) is constituted by corresponding members. The two sub-frames are interconnected at the ends of the apparatus by transverse members 113 , 113k. The transverse members 113j, 113k interconnect the top rails 113h of the two sub-frames. Therefore, the periphery of the superstructure is defined by a series of interconnected members at approximately the waist height of an operator of the apparatus. The bearings such as bearing 20 for the shaft 115 supporting the sub-frameworks 116 are mounted on the top rails 113h approximately mid¬ way along their respective lengths. The bearing 120 visible on the left nand side of Figure 9 is simply a freely rotating bearing, such as a ball bearing race in a pillow block or a needle roller bearing. On the right hand side of the apparatus as shown in Figure 9, the shaft 115 is received within a gearbox 122, and the free end of shaft 115 has secured thereto a gear wneel (not visible in the drawings). A worm gear (also not shown) is disposed above the gear in driving engagement therewith within gearbox 122. The worm gear is rigidly secured to a further shaft 123 wnich protrudes from the gearbox 122 towarαs the left nanα end of the apparatus as vieweα m Figure 8. The extreme left hand enα of shaft 123 terminates in a rotatable hand wheel 124. Since the snaft 123 includes the worm gear in driving engagement with the gear formed at the free end of the right hand shaft 115 shown in Figure 9, rotation of hand wheel 124 causes rotation of the sub-frame 116 disposed on the right hand side of the apparatus as shown in Figure 9, by virtue of transmission of the drive via the gearbox 122. Since the two frameworks 116 are linked together, rotation of hand wneel 124 will cause simultaneous rotation of both the frameworks 116 in the same direction. The components supported on the shaft 115 may in preferred embodiments of the invention be removed as a cartridge or bobbin-like assembly as indicated heremabove. This may be achieved by the inclusion of quick release couplings the preferred portions of which are indicated by reference numerals 120a and 122a allowing the shaft 115 to be released respectively from the bearing 120 and the gearbox 122. Alternatively, as shown, a semi-permanent fixing such as set screws may be employed to permit the releasable mounting of bearing 20 and the gearbox 22 with the snaft 115. Set screws or bolts may readily be released using e.g. a pneumatic wrench, thereby permitting rapid removal of the shaft 115. This arrangement has the advantage that the gearbox and shaft 23 may be removed with the shaft 115 and its associated components, thereby permitting actuation of the gearbox 22 to rotate the frameworks 116 while they are stored on e.g. a storage stand. Similar arrangements may be devised e.g. for the embodiments of Figures 1 to 7. When arranged as a cartridge or bobbin-like assembly, the said components may readily be carried on e.g. the forks of a forklift truck. Such forks may if necessary be modified e.g. by the inclusion of stops to prevent the said components from rolling off the forks during transit. The superstructure defined by the members 113 is secured to the base portion by means of four rigid, pivotable link members 117a, 117b, 117c, 117d. The link members 117a, 117b, 117c, 117d constitute jacks by wnich the superstructure may be raised and lowered relative to the base portion 112. The base portion is supported the emoodiment shown by castors 118 that are disposed at the corners of the U-shape referreα to above. (Other means of supporting the base portion 112 in moveable manner may equally well be employed and will be evident to those skilled the art of manually operated goods handling apparatus. Skids, roller bearings and uni-directional wheels can equally easily be employed, for example. Alternatively, the base portion 112 of the frame 111 may be constituted as part of a larger machine, such as a forklift truck or a freely moveable or track mounted factory vehicle.) In the embodiment shown, and in the majority of practical embodiments, the base portion 112 is disposeα a few mcnes above the floor or ground 119 on which the apparatus stands. The jacks constituted by link members 117a-117d permit raising and lowering of the superstructure 113 relative to the base portion 112, and by judicious manoeuvring of the clamps 114 on the apparatus 110, the apparatus can be used to pick up an object initially positioned on the floor or ground 119 ana raise it off the floor or ground. The object may then subsequently either be transported on the apparatus to a remote location, or moved by virtue of rotation of the frameworκs 116 to a working or storage position on the apparatus. Indeed, it is possible for an object picked up from the floor by the apparatus to be manoeuvred by virtue of rotation of the frameworks 116 whilst the apparatus 110 is being pushed or pulled to a remote location. The links 117a, 117b, 117c, 117d are pivotably secured respectively at one end thereof to respective corners of the lower part of the superstructure 113. The other ends of the links 117a, 117b, 117c, 117d are respectively secured at points on the side rails 112a, 112d of the base portion 112 such that the superstructure 113 can selectively either be lowered to rest with the members 113b, 113f of the superstructure resting on the side members 112a, 112d; or raised with the members 113b, 113f of the superstructure clear of the side members 112a, 112d as shown in Figure 8. This is achieved by virtue of the link members 117a, 117b, 117c, 117d pivoting at their respective ends to constrain the movement of the superstructure relative to the base portion to an arcuate movement. When the superstructure occupies its lower position, the link members 117a, 117b, 117c, 117d lie generally parallel to the side members 112a, 112d outside the side members (when the apparatus is viewed in end elevation or plan view). Thus, the link members are, when the superstructure occupies its lower position, disposed below and to one side of the top dead centre position of the links. During movement of the superstructure to its raised position, the link members 117 move in an arcuate path towards their respective top dead centre positions. The arrangement of the components is such that the link members 117 are permitted to travel beyond their top dead centre positions so that the weight of the superstructure and any components and load carried thereby acts downwardly via the links and the frame members 112 on the opposite side of the top dead centre position from that originally occupied by the links 117. To prevent the weight of the superstructure from forcing the links simply to continue rotating after they have passed the top dead centre positions during raising of the superstructure and return the superstructure to the same level as that from which it started, a pair of abutments 112b, 112e are shown secured to the side members 112a, 112d at the extreme left hand ends (Figure 8). Thus, the two link members 117a, 117c disposed at the left hand end of the apparatus are permitted only a limited range of arcuate movement beyond the top dead centre position before engaging the respective abutments 112b, 112e. This prevents further movement of the link members 117a, 117c (and hence the other two link members 117b, 117d) in the same direction. Thus, part of the load formed by the superstructure 113 is transmitted to the base portion 112 via the abutments 112b, 112e, and the remainder is transmitted via the link members 117a, 117b, 711c, 117d. Since in the raised position of the superstructure 113 the link members 117a, 117b, 117c, 117d occupy a position "beyond" their top dead centre position but such that the link members 117a, 117b, 117c, 117d are prevented from falling to a position of lowest energy, the superstructure 113 can only be returned to its lower position by reversal of the direction of movement of the link members. As is apparent from Figure 8, this requires a conscious and positive effort and therefore the possibility of the superstructure accidentally reverting to its lower position is eliminated. The precise positioning of the abutments 112b, 112e and the lengths of the link members 117a-117d determine the force required to initiate reversal of the movement of the link members. When the apparatus carries heavy loads, it will be difficult for an individual to raise the superstructure on the link members 117a, 117b, 117c, 117d without assistance. Therefore, means may be included in the apparatus 110 to provide a mechanical advantage wnereby the superstructure 113 may readily be raised by a single operator towards and away from the top dead centre position of the link members 117a, 117b, 117c, 117d. Examples of such means include a handle having a long extension that is rigidly securable either to one of the links or to the superstructure 113, whereby an operator may readily raise and lower the superstructure 113. Alternatively, screw, bottle, hydraulic and scissor jacks may be considered as alternatives for raising and lowering the superstructure. A further possibility is the provision of one or more cams operable on the links or the frame members. Moreover, the presence of the links 117a-117d is not in itself essential. It is simply important to be able to raise and lower the superstructure 113 relative to the base portion 112 a controlled manner. Thus, any of the alternative means of jacking the superstructure relative to the base portion that will occur to those skilled in the art may conceivably be useα without the link members 117a-117d being present. Each clamp 114 comprises a pair of jaws 125, 126. One, 125, of the aws is secured against axial movement in the corresponding apex of one of the frameworks 116. The jaw 125 is freely rotatable in its mounting in the apex of the sub-frame 116. The other jaw, 126, is moveable in an axial direction towarαs and away from the jaw 125 as well as being fully rotatable in the apex of the otner framework 116 in wnich it is mounted. The axial movement of aw 126 can be achieved, e.g., by virtue of a hanα wheel 128 (Figure 8) απvmgly securable to the free end 127' of the shaft 127 on which the jaw 126 is mounted, with the shank of shaft 127 being threadedly engageable with the corresponding thread in a sleeve constituting the inner race of the bearing supporting the aw 126 in the framework 116. Using this arrangement, rotation of such a hand wheel would cause the jaw 126 to move in an axial direction relative to the framework 116 whilst still being freely rotatable relative to the framework 116. The jaws 125, 126 of each clamp have forwardly projecting link members 130 and 131. The link members 130, 131 are rigidly secured to the respective jaws 125, 126. The link member 130 has rigidly secured thereto and extending at right angles therefrom a bar 132 which extends towards the vicinity of the other aw 126. The link member 131 has an aperture adapted to receive the bar 132 so that as the jaw 126 is moved axially towards and away from the aw 125, the link member 131 slides on bar 132 between the positions 131 and 131 ' shown in Figure 10. The link members 130, 131 and the bars 132 may serve a function in syncnromsmg the movement of the frameworks 116 m embodiments lacking a common support shaft for the frameworks. Figure 10 shows an additional, rotatable handle 135 which is rigidly secured in a cranKed manner to the free end of the stub shaft 34 supporting jaw 125. The mounting of handle 135 is achieved by virtue of an extension piece 136 which is secured e.g. by welding at one end to the handle 135 and at the other end has an aperture designed to receive the free end of the stub shaft 134 in a dπvmgly engaged relationship. Thus, rotation of handle 135 will cause rotation of the stub shaft 134 and hence of jaw 125 in its bearing in sub-frame 116. The presence of bar 132 transmits any sucn rotation to jaw 126 (which is also freely rotatable), and if the aws 125, 126 are in gripping engagement with an object (such as a chemical drum 137), tilting of the object occurs. Thus, the contents of e.g. an open-topped drum may be poured by virtue of rotation of handle 135. Figure 11 shows a front elevational view of e.g. a chemical drum 37 being gripped by the jaws 125 and 126. In the view shown in Figure 11, some of the components visible in Figure 10 have been omitted for clarity. A further, optional feature is the presence of stops indicated approximately at the position 140 on the side members 112a, 112d of the base portion 112. Such stops or abutments would serve a purpose in ensuring that the superstructure 113 does not drop below a predetermined height when it is being lowered to pick up, e.g., floor-mounted objects. In use of the apparatus, an operator will manoeuvre the apparatus so that the U-shaped base portion 112 substantially surrounds e.g. a drum positioned on the floor or ground 119. If the superstructure 113 is not already in its lower position, the superstructure 113 can be lowered by operation of the links 117a-117d to occupy such a position. The jaws 125 and 126 can then be separated from one another as necessary to allow them to pass to either side of the drum 137 on further manoeuvring of the apparatus 110. Rotation of the handle 128 of the appropriate jaw 126 can then be effected to cause clamping of the drum 137 between the jaws 125 and 126 of one of the clamps 114. Once the drum 137 (or other object, as desired) is securely gripped between the jaws 125, 126 the superstructure can be raised relative to the base portion 112 in the manner described above. This serves to lift the drum 137 clear of the floor. The handle 124 may then be operated to cause rotation of the frameworks 116, thereby manoeuvring the drum 137 on the apparatus 110. If the frameworks 116 are square as shown with a clamp 114 at eacn apex, rotation through 90° results in a further clamp 114 being presented in the generally U-shaped portion of the base portion 112 for picking up of a further drum 37 or a different object, by repetition of the steps indicated above. These steps may be repeated until all four clamps 114a, 114b, 114c, 114d are in gripping engagement with respective oil drums 137. The apparatus may then be manoeuvred to a further site for, e.g., filling of the drums or tilting of the drums by operation of handle 135 to pour their contents out. Many variants on the basic design disclosed herein are possible within the scope of the invention. For example, the frameworks 116 need not have a square shape but may be any shape that permits the mounting of a plurality of clamps such as clamps 114a-114d. Moreover, it is not essential that the locus of the clamps is circular when the handle 124 (or such other drive means as may be provided) is operated. Possibly, there will be occasions when an elliptical path for the clamps is more desirable. This may lead to the construction of an elongate version of the apparatus which has a greater carrying capacity than the one shown in the drawings. Moreover, there need not be provided a pair of frameworks 116. The moveable components of the apparatus may be motorised, by means of electric, hydraulic or other motors. Moreover, the castors or other ground engaging means can be otorised to facilitate locomotion of the apparatus e.g. within a factory. Another possibility is for the apparatus to run along fixed tracks, either in the manner of e.g. a railway or monorail or by virtue of a sensor following a magnetic path on a factory floor. Numerous other arrangements concerning the possible means of providing motive power to the apparatus will occur to those skilled in the art. It is not essential that the base portion 112 is mounted above floor or ground level. However, the problems of locomotion of the apparatus are more readily solved in an arrangement which allows for the supporting of the base portion 112 a short distance above ground level, thereby leaving room below the base portion 112 for, e.g., castors, skids or other ground engaging members. All embodiments of the invention thus far described are steerable, by virtue of the use of castors for supporting the frame means. However, other support means may be used instead. For instance, in certain applications there may be no need for steerability (for instance if the apparatus is intended to move along guide tracks between selected locations). In certain applications, it is even envisaged that the apparatus may include skids or walking feet. The apparatus of the invention is extremely versatile, and indeed the construction may take a number of forms. In particular, it should be noted that the construction of the frame portions need not be limited to the forms shown in the drawings, nor to sizes that tend to present stored objects at the waist height of an operator. The apparatus may be constructed in a great range of sizes.

Claims: CLAIMS 1. A moveable, load supporting apparatus comprising: a frame means including at least one floor or ground engaging means for supporting the apparatus on a floor or the ground, said means being adapted to permit the free movement of the apparatus when supported on a floor or the ground; a load platform supported relative to the frame means; means for interconnecting the frame means and the load platform whereby the load platform is simultaneously vertically and horizontally moveable relative to the frame means; and means whereby the load platform is maintained generally horizontal or in another desired orientation, regardless of the position of the platform relative to the frame means. 2. An apparatus according to Claim 1 wherein the means for interconnecting the frame means and the load platform includes a member to which the platform is attached, said member being moveable such that the locus of the point of attachment of the platform defines an arc on movement of the member. 3. An apparatus according to Claim 2 wherein said locus is generally circular. 4. An apparatus according to Claim 2 or Claim 3 wherein said member is generally circular. 5. An apparatus according to Claim 2 wherein said locus is generally elliptical. 6. An apparatus according to Claim 2 or Claim 3 wherein said member is generally elliptical. 7. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein said member is generally rigid. 8. An apparatus according to any of Claims 1 to 6 wherein said member is flexible. 9. An apparatus according to Claim 8 wherein said member includes a flexible belt having an attachment point thereon for said platform and which is constrained to move in a path which causes said attachment point to follow a generally arcuate locus. 10. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the means whereby the load platform is maintained generally horizontal includes means permitting said load platform to level under gravity. 11. An apparatus according to any preceding claim including a plurality of load platforms supported relative to the frame means. 12. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the means for interconnecting the or a load platform and the frame means includes a pair of laterally spaced members adapted to support the or a load platform at respective points thereon. 13. An apparatus according to any preceding claim including one or more wheel or roller means secured to the frame means, whereby the apparatus may be moved. 14. An apparatus according to any preceding claim, including means for controllably moving the load platform vertically and horizontally relative to the frame means. 15. An apparatus according to Claim 14 wherein the means for controllably moving includes a moveable hand crank, a drive train adapted to transfer drive from the hand crank to the means for interconnecting the frame means and the load platform; and a brake for the drive train. 16. An apparatus according to Claim 14, wherein the means for controllably moving includes a moveable hand crank, a drive train adapted to transfer drive from the hand crank to the means for interconnecting the frame means and the load platform, and a brake for said means for interconnecting. 17. An apparatus according to Claim 16, wherein the brake is a dead man's brake located at or near one end of the apparatus, the hand crank being located such that the brake and the hand crank can be operated by one person. 18. An apparatus according to Claim 14 wherein the means for controllably moving includes a motor means and a drive train adapted to transfer drive from the motor means to the means for interconnecting. 19. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the frame means includes two separate parts and the apparatus includes a pair of means respectively interconnecting the or a load platform and one of the parts of the frame means. 20. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the load platform is adapted to extend laterally of the frame means to permit said load platform to overhang e.g. a workbench or conveyor belt. 21. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the means for interconnecting the frame means and the load platform is removably secured in the frame means, whereby the load platform is removable from the apparatus on said means for interconnecting. 22. An apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the load platform includes one or more upstanding wall means thereby to subdivide the load platform into a plurality of zones. 23. A moveable load supporting apparatus comprising: a load bearing structure; a securable load supporting means supported relative to the load bearing structure; means for interconnecting the load bearing structure and the load supporting means, whereby the load supporting means, and hence any load supported thereby, is simultaneously vertically and horizontally moveable relative to the load bearing structure; and means whereby the load supporting means is automatically maintained generally horizontal, or in another desired orientation, during movement of the load supporting means, regardless of the position of the load supporting means relative to the load bearing structure, wherein the load bearing structure includes a base portion and a superstructure, the position of the superstructure relative to the base portion being adjustable in at least a vertical direction by virtue of jack means operative between the base portion and the superstructure, the load supporting means being supported on the superstructure and the arrangement being such that the load supporting means may be secured to a load disposed at a first, lower level and may lift it to a second, higher level on operation of the jack means to raise the superstructure relative to the base portion. 24. An apparatus according to Claim 23 including means whereby the orientation of the load supporting means may selectively be altered to an orientation different from that which it automatically adopts. 25. An apparatus according to Claim 23 or Claim 24, wherein the means for interconnecting the load bearing structure and the load supporting means includes a member to which the load supporting means is pivotably attached, the member being moveable such that the locus of the point of attachment of the load supporting means is circular. 26. Apparatus according to Claim 25 wherein the load supporting means is freely rotatable relative to said member, whereby the load supporting means and any load carried thereby tend to adopt a generally horizontal orientation under gravity. 27. An apparatus according to Claim 26 wherein the means whereby the orientation of the load supporting means may selectively be altered includes a further member, e.g. a wheel, in driving engagement with the load supporting means, whereby on application of force to the further member the load supporting means is rotated out of its horizontal orientation. 28. An apparatus according to Claims 23 to 27 wherein the jack means includes first and second rigid links pivotably secured at their respective ends to the base portion and the superstructure, the links being laterally spaced from one another; a member in driving engagement with one of the links or the superstructure, whereby a lifting force may be applied with mechanical advantage to raise the superstructure relative to the base portion in a curved path constrained by the pivoting motion of the links from a first, lower position in which the links lie below and to one side of their respective top dead centre positions and a second, raised position on the opposite side of said top dead centre position; and means e.g. an abutment limiting the movement of said links on said opposite side of the top dead centre position to a predetermined distance thereby to support the superstructure in its raised position. 29. An apparatus according to any of Claims 23 to 28, wherein the means for interconnecting the load bearing structure and the load supporting means includes a pair of spaced members; and wherein the load supporting means includes first and second spaced jaws secured respectively on said members, the spacing between the jaws being selectively adjustable thereby to grip an object. 30. An apparatus according to Claim 29 including a shaft rigidly secured relative to the second jaw and extending generally towards the first jaw; and a rigid link member extending from the first jaw, the link member including an aperture or recess adapted to receive the shaft, whereby the link member is slideable relative to the shaft to ensure mutual alignment of the jaws during adjustment of the load supporting means. 31. An apparatus according to any of Claims 23 to 30, wherein the means for interconnecting the load bearing structure and the load supporting means is pivotably secured on the load bearing structure. 32. An apparatus according to any of Claims 23 to 31 including a plurality of load supporting means adapted to support a corresponding plurality of loads. 33. An apparatus according to any of Claims 23 to 32, wherein the means interconnecting the load bearing structure and the load supporting means is selectively removable from the apparatus. 34. An apparatus according to any of Claims 23 to 33 adapted to support at least one 60 litre drum. 35. An apparatus according to Claim 21 or Claim 33 wherein the means for interconnecting is adapted to be received in a stand, remote from the apparatus, for the storage of at least one said means for interconnecting. 36. An apparatus according to any preceding claim including at least one laterally extending support leg or foot. 37. An apparatus according to any preceding claim adapted to support a plurality of means for interconnecting and a corresponding plurality of load platforms and/or load supporting means.

Inventors: JEPHCOTT DAVID LYNTON, JEPHCOTT, DAVID, LYNTON
Applicants: JEPHCOTT DAVID LYNTON, SCOOTABOUT INT LTD, JEPHCOTT, DAVID, LYNTON, SCOOTABOUT INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
Application year: 1993
Main classification: B65G1
IPC codes: B65G1