AU2006236047A1 - Improvements in and Relating to Lifting Apparatus - Google Patents

Description

\O

IMPROVEMENTS IN AND RELATING TO LIFTING APPARATUS 0 S Technical Field The present invention is directed to improvements in and relating to lifting apparatus.

In particular, the invention relates to aspects of the features, manufacture and operation of an improved lifting apparatus to enable sheet materials, including metal reinforcing mesh and the like, to be lifted and moved around when the sheet materials are stacked in bundles, on pallets and so (-i INC forth.

It is envisaged the lifting apparatus will be particularly used to lift sheet materials which have a degree of inherent flexibility due to the configuration of the sheet material and where use of existing methods of lifting such sheet materials may result in buckling or distorting of the shape of the sheet materials, or effecting damage thereto.

Whilst the invention is envisaged to have particular application in relation to potentially or substantially flexible sheet materials via the lifting apparatus, it should be appreciated that this invention may be used in relation to lifting, transporting, and relocating varying quantities of a range of sheet materials, or be adapted for use where any lifting apparatus system is required to lift substantially planar goods. In addition, the invention may have applications outside this field.

Background Art A range of lifting apparatus for lifting, transporting, moving, restacking and loading on to vehicles and so forth are available on the market. Forklifts and pallet jacks are very common apparata used in a wide range of industries to move around products stacked, packed or contained whether on the ground, on pallets, on support structures, or the like.

The power operated forked platform in front of the forklift truck is inserted under loads to lift and move them or for stacking materials in warehouses, shipping depots, etc. The forks are made from steel.

1728482 1 S A pallet jack is a manual version of the forklift. The handle of the pallet jack operates as a pump mechanism and relies on the use of pneumatics or hydraulics to raise and lower the tines. The tines 0 S are lowered for insertion under or withdrawal from beneath a pallet or bundle of objects and then raised to move the pallet around.

Both the forklift and the pallet jack have become indispensable pieces of equipment in many manufacturing, transportation and warehousing operations, where finished products or materials need to be moved, stacked and un-stacked several times during such operations.

SThree components are critical in determining load material handling efficiency (and costs). These are packaging, pallets, and material handling equipment. Pallets and packaging work as a system to determine overall unit load performance. For most products, the pallet and packaging used to unitise, protect and transport the product represent a significant percentage of costs.

Therefore, most companies spend considerable resources in packaging development, or to improved pallet design, as there are many ways to modify packaging and pallet design that will save on overall unit load costs. However, the impact of the forklift should not be underestimated. Forklift accidents and damage to pallets and product are some of the less desireable factors of direct forklift use.

Where the products are sheet materials, whether they be planar wall boards, sheets of reinforcing mesh and so forth, the use of a fork lift alone creates other problems. If the planar sheet materials are not supported by a pallet-type structure, the forklift tines inserted beneath the sheet materials only support a small proportion of the load on each tine. The remaining sheet material often overhangs the forklift tines, such that the materials develop a bow longitudinally and/or laterally.

Where the sheet material is made from metal there is no inherent creep modulus in such material which allows the sheet material to recover to its original flat planar state.

Where the sheet materials are stacked the weight of the stack is dependent on the sheet material itself. For example, three bundles of steel reinforcing sheet mesh would have a weight of approximately three tonne. This weight in turn may also have a detrimental effect on the forklift in terms of wear and tear. This converts to additional costs of maintaining and repairing the forklifts.

While the present invention has a number of potentially realisable applications, it is in relation to problems associated with existing systems that the present invention was developed. More 1728482 1

NO

O specifically, it was with the problems associated with the lack of a readily available alternative system for lifting heavy, awkward sheet materials in bundles, that the present invention was

O

S developed.

In Having a simple system, capable of being easily used, adaptable to lift a range of sheet materials and minimise damage to the sheet materials would provide some benefit to industries where the stacking, storing and transportation of sheet materials is a daily operation.

NO

N It would be useful therefore, to have lifting apparatus that: Sa) Could have the benefits of being permanently fitted to or temporarily used with a forklift or other mechanical lifting devices, such as a crane, as required; yet b) Could be used to lift a range of sheet materials from substantially solid sheet materials to substantially flexible sheet materials whether of uniform construction, or random (open weave or patterned) construction, whether of metal, wood, plaster, plastic and so forth; and c) Could enable bundles of substantial weights to be lifted; and yet d) Did not cause the integrity of the sheet material to be compromised by bending or flexing of the sheet materials which might result in cracking, bowing or other damage to the materials; and e) Thereby reduce overheads of a business operation otherwise set aside for replacement of damaged goods; and f) Was securely configured; and g) Was easy to use.

It would therefore be advantageous to have an invention that offered at least some if not all of the advantages of the above proposed lifting apparatus. Ideally the present invention will also provide a system which allows for substantially trouble free installation.

1728482 1

\O

It is therefore one object of the present invention to consider the above problems and provide at least one solution which addresses a plurality of these problems.

O

It is therefore a further object of the present invention to at least provide the public with a useful choice or alternative system.

Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the ensuing O description which is given by way of example only. It should be appreciated that variations to the described embodiments are possible and would fall within the scope of the present invention.

S Disclosure of Invention The lifting apparatus may be defined as apparatus which is capable of taking hold of, or supporting an object or objects in order to carry the object(s). The objects may be carried for relocation for storage, stacking, use or transportation.

A particular problem with existing lifting devices is that stabilisation is not provided while lifting objects. For example, most lifting devices only provide for vertical lifting of objects, and do not provide lateral support for the object being lifted and/or the lifting device during lifting. Moreover, present lifting devices do not include a stabiliser portion that can be adjusted to accommodate and support objects of various sizes and weights during lifting.

The objects associated with the use of the present invention are broadly termed as sheet materials. It should be appreciated that this term includes a range of such objects of varying dimensions, shapes, components, weights, rigidity and so forth.

Accordingly, the sheet materials may include plaster board, wooden panels, concrete slabs, marble or granite slabs, glass, sheet metals, meshes of metal and/or thermoplastics, sheet plastics, fiberglass sheets and so forth. Sheet reinforcing metal mesh is one example of such a material with which the lifting apparatus is adapted to be used.

A conventional lifting mechanism, such as a hydraulic, pneumatic, or mechanical fork lift, provides a lifting force which is transferred to lifting tines. The lifting tines are positioned beneath an object 1728482 1 O or a stack of objects. Lifting force is applied and the objects are raised. A crane or hoist and pulley system, similarly allows for the lifting of an object or a group of stacked objects. Of course, in this S latter scenario, the lifting force is applied from above via a crane or hook attached to the load to be lifted and the lifting force effecting the raising up of the objects.

In both cases, the lifting force is applied to only a portion of the area of the object or group of objects being lifted. What is required is a means of spreading the lifting force across the objects such that as the objects are lifted there is no distortion of the shape of the objects, no undue stress N placed on the lifting machinery and for such to be achieved without having to adapt the lifting 3 apparatus.

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided lifting apparatus for use with a lifting mechanism, said lifting mechanism providing upward lifting of an object; said lifting apparatus including a frame, said frame being adapted to receive a portion of the lifting mechanism and said frame including multiple tines depending therefrom, said tines being adapted to be inserted beneath an object or a stack of objects; and said lifting apparatus characterized by said frame being adapted to move between and extended configuration and a retracted configuration.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided lifting apparatus substantially as described above wherein said lifting mechanism includes a crane, hoist and pulley system, or a forklift.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided lifting apparatus substantially as described above wherein said object includes at least one sheet material.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided lifting apparatus substantially as described above wherein the lifting apparatus provides longitudinal and lateral support for the object during lifting.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided lifting apparatus substantially as described above wherein the frame of the lifting apparatus is adapted to move between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration in a plane generally parallel to the plane of orientation of the object.

1728482 1

\O

O According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided lifting apparatus substantially as described above wherein the frame of the lifting apparatus is adapted to move in a horizontal 0 S plane along either or both its longitudinal axis, and laterally thereto.

s According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided lifting apparatus substantially as described above wherein the tines of the frame are adapted to operate between a retracted and an extended position.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided lifting apparatus substantially D as described above wherein the tines of the frame are adapted to operate between a retracted and an extended position in a plane substantially perpendicular to the horizontal plane of the frame.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided lifting apparatus substantially as described above wherein one distal end of the tines are attached to the frame and the other distal s end of the tines are substantially angled to form a hook.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided lifting apparatus substantially as described above wherein the frame is interconnectable with a movable part of the lifting mechanism.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided lifting apparatus substantially as described above wherein the frame includes stabilising apparatus.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided lifting apparatus substantially as described above wherein the stabilising apparatus is pivotally interconnected to the frame.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided lifting apparatus substantially as described above wherein the stabilising apparatus includes at least one stabilising arm.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided lifting apparatus substantially as described above wherein the at least one stabilising arm includes a piston.

1728482 1

\O

O According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided lifting apparatus substantially as described above wherein the at least one stabilising arm is separately attached to the frame.

0 z Vt According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided lifting apparatus substantially as described above wherein the piston of the stabilising arm accommodates variations in the horizontal alignment of the frame, returning the frame to true horizontal relative to at least the horizontal alignment with the portion of the lifting mechanism with which the lifting apparatus is NO used.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided lifting apparatus substantially as described above wherein the piston of the stabilising arm stabilises and supports the lifting apparatus.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided lifting apparatus substantially as described above wherein the power source to the frame, the tines, the stabilising apparatus to extend or retract or stabilise the frame, the object, the tine positioning is provided by the lifting mechanism which effects operation of hydraulic or pneumatic means.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided lifting apparatus substantially as described above wherein the power source to the frame, the tines, the stabilising apparatus to extend or retract or stabilise the frame, the object, the tine positioning is provided by a separate power source relative to the frame, such as a battery which effects operation of hydraulic or pneumatic means.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided lifting apparatus substantially as described above wherein the substantially angled distal end of the tines is tapered to allow it to be slid between the bottom surface of the object and the floor surface.

A method for stabilising an object during lifting comprising: providing a lifting apparatus, said lifting apparatus including a frame, said frame being adapted to receive a portion of a lifting mechanism and said frame including multiple tines depending therefrom, said tines being adapted to be inserted beneath an object or a stack of objects; and said lifting apparatus characterized by said frame being adapted to move between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration in a 1728482 1

\O

plane generally parallel to the object; and operating the frame to an extended position, positioning the frame over the object; effecting movement of the frame towards its retracted position adjacent 0 S the object; thereby effecting sliding of the tines of the lifting apparatus underneath a bottom surface S of the object; and activating the lifting mechanism to lift the object.

A method for stabilising an object during lifting substantially as described above wherein the frame includes stabilising apparatus, said stabilising apparatus including at least one stabilising arm NO attached to the frame, and said method further characterised by operation of the stabilising arm to (Ni N move the frame and the object to a substantially horizontal orientation to ensure effective operation 3 of the frame and prevent warping thereof.

A method for stabilising an object during lifting substantially as described above wherein either or both the stabilising apparatus and the stabilising arm is pivotally interconnected with the frame.

An apparatus for stabilising a lifting apparatus, said lifting apparatus including a frame, said frame being adapted to receive a portion of a lifting mechanism and said frame including multiple tines depending therefrom, said tines being adapted to be inserted beneath an object or a stack of objects; and said lifting apparatus characterized by said frame being adapted to move between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration in a plane generally parallel to the object: and said stabilising apparatus comprising a pivotable connection between the stabilising apparatus and the frame of the lifting apparatus; and said stabilising apparatus including a stabilising arm moveable away from, and retractable towards, the frame; and means for moving and retracting the stabilising arm, said means including a piston and said piston being operated by a power source.

A lifting mechanism for providing an upward force, for use in lifting an object using lifting apparatus substantially as described herein.

A lifting mechanism substantially as described above wherein at least one movable part of the lifting mechanism is adapted to be interconnected with the lifting apparatus.

A lifting mechanism substantially as described above wherein the means for moving the stabilising arm comprises pneumatic or hydraulic force.

1728482 1 O A lifting mechanism substantially as described above wherein the means for moving the stabilising arm further comprises a pivotable mount pivotably interconnecting an end of the stabilising arm to S the frame of the lifting apparatus.

This invention relates to lifting apparatus for raising an object to an elevated position for moving the object from one location to another, such as when putting the object into storage, for moving the object for use, when loading the object onto a vehicle for transportation and so forth. Accordingly, the lifting apparatus is capable of moving between a first position, where the object can be raised to N"1 the elevated position and a second position where the object is located substantially adjacent the surface on which it is resting.

The lifting apparatus comprises a support structure, or frame. The support structure or frame comprises at least one first member in a telescopic arrangement with at least one second member.

The first member is adapted to move relative to the at least one second member between a retracted and an extended orientation.

In the second position, the second member preferably extends from the first member horizontally in either or both a plane aligned to the longitudinal axis of the first member of the frame or laterally of the longitudinal axis of the first member, such that the frame is positioned to allow easy loading or removal of the object from the frame. In the second position, the second member may be retracted into the first member such that the frame is positioned to allow lifting of the object within the frame.

In one embodiment of the lifting apparatus, the first member and the second member extend in opposed directions. In another embodiment, there may be more than one second member and as such the first member may remain stationary whilst the second members each move relative thereto.

As the first member and second member of the frame each comprise a substantially elongate portion they include a plurality of cross-members spanning therebetween. The cross-members operate as bracing means to strengthen the lifting apparatus. The location and number of bracing means may vary depending on the actual embodiment of the invention.

In preferred embodiments, the frame includes object supporting means. The object supporting means are in the form of multiple tines depending from the perimeter, or external edge of the frame.

1728482 1 S Each tine is preferably a substantially elongate element and is adapted at its outer distal end to be bent at an angle of approximately 90 degrees to create a hook-like, or substantially L-shaped portion 0 S with the horizontal arm of the L constituting the support portion. The hook-like, or L-shaped S portion capable of being positioned under the object, between the object and the surface on which the object is sitting. Thus when the object is lifted using the lifting apparatus there are multiple support portions maintaining the substantially straight or horizontal positioning of the sheet material.

The lifting apparatus also may include object gripping means on the support portions of the tines, to form a surface engaging grip on the object to be lifted. Said object gripping means may be selected from a group including: a suction grip, an electromagnetic grip, a non-slip surface of rubber, or the like, configured to maintain the object in contact with the frame at all times.

The tines, or the object gripping on the support portions, means may be moveably mounted for allowing for accommodation of varyingly sized objects, or for repositioning the object prior to the object being held in a gripped position.

There may also be securing members adapted to releasably secure the object in a locked position within the frame, such as latches, straps and so forth.

In some embodiments, the tines may be extendable to accommodate different thicknesses of stacks of sheet materials. As can be appreciated, some sheet materials are substantially thin, such as reinforcing mesh; whilst others have greater bulk, such as plasterboard. The ability to adjust the length of the tines makes the invention more versatile for use in warehouses which stock a range of products.

Therefore, the object supporting means or tines may be telescopic in respect of either or both the elongate element and the L-shaped portion, as may be required to accommodate loads of varying stack height or width. Being able to adjust the height of the elongate element of the tines enables larger stacks of materials to be accommodated, whilst adjusting the length of the L-shaped portions enables greater support to be offered under wider or varyingly flexible loads of materials.

Pneumatic, hydraulic or any suitable means may be used to extend the telescoping portions of the tines. Alternatively, any suitable adjusting means may be used with or adapted for use with the 1728482 1

\O

O present invention to enable the length of the elongate element and/or the L-shaped portion to be adjusted.

O

In some situations, it may be potentially advantageous for the lifting apparatus to be moved independently of any lifting mechanism. In this regard, motive means, such as wheels, rollers, castors or the like may be included permanently, adjustably or removably on a portion of the tines, so that the lifting apparatus could be moved by simply being pushed from one location to another.

NO

There is also optionally provided stabilising apparatus for the lifting apparatus. Typically, the Sstabilising apparatus will be pivotally connected to the support structure/frame for stabilising the CK1 orientation of the support structure and the object in a preferred orientation. The stabilising apparatus including at least one stabilising arm adapted to move between an extended and retracted position to re-orient the level of the support structure as preferred or required.

The pivotal axis of the pivotal stabilising apparatus may be centred relative to the first member of the frame. In this embodiment, the stabilising arm is connected at one distal end to the stabilising apparatus on the first member and at the other distal end to the second member. The stabilising arm provides a connection between the stabilising apparatus and the second member. The connection between the stabilising apparatus, stabilising arm and the first and second members is designed to ensure the first and second members of the frame are aligned horizontally. Horizontal alignment is a necessity where the frame is used to carry or lift heavy sheet materials and any distortion would impede the operation of the members of the support structure between the extended and retracted positions.

A central frame member, or cross member, may be incorporated if required to provide a central pivotable axis for connection of the stabilising apparatus to ensure uniform horizontal orientation of the first member relative to the second member.

In a second embodiment, the first member may be centralized between two or more second members, each of which may move relative to the first member between retracted and extended positions. In this latter type of embodiment, the first member may be adapted to include one or more stabilising apparatus to ensure uniform horizontal orientation of the first member with the various second members.

1728482 1

\O

S The lifting apparatus may include locking means to maintain the first and second member in a preferred arrangement retracted or extended for longer periods; or for maintaining a preferred 0 S alignment resulting from operation of the stabilising apparatus. The locking means may comprise S any suitable means, even such as a retractable pin able to be biased between a locking and an unlocked position.

The locking means may be released by a release mechanism located on the first member, whereby O upon release the first and/or second member and/or stabilising apparatus may be able to move from its locked position.

CK1 In use, actuating means such as either or both a pneumatic and a hydraulic force is required to move the second member from the first position to the second position and vice versa. In addition, hydraulic or pneumatic power is used to stabilise the frame via operation of the stabilising arm relative to the pivotable stabilising apparatus. The power source to effect the movement is typically provided by connection of the lifting apparatus to the hydraulic or pneumatic system of the lifting mechanism which may be a crane or a forklift. In other embodiments a separate power source (such as one or more batteries) may be used instead of or in combination with the vehicle's power source.

The latter option would be relevant where a simple hoist and pulley system was used with the lifting apparatus.

The support structure is adapted to releasably interconnect with a lifting cable of a hoist and pulley system or crane, or the tines of a forklift for providing the lifting power for lifting the object. For example, the frame is preferably adapted at its exterior edge to accommodate the tines of a forklift through complementary configured apertures in the frame's first member. Where a hoist and pulley system, or a crane is used, there is preferably provided a guide means, such as a shackle, or loop, which is designed to accommodate the hook of the crane or hoist cable.

Where the lifting apparatus is adapted to include a guide means for attachment of a hook of a lifting cable of a crane or a hoist and pulley, the guide means is either preferably centrally located relative to the support structure, or there may be several such guide means positioned around the support structure to provide several attachment points and thereby improve movement of the lifting apparatus in a substantially horizontal plane.

1728482 1 O The support structure is adapted to support the object as it is raised. The support frame is also adapted to distribute the load of the object relative to the lifting mechanism with which the lifting 0 S apparatus is used. Accordingly, as lengths of objects may vary, the second member may be independently adjustable in length. Further, the support structure may include at least one stop, preventing a second member from disengaging with the first member of the support structure/frame.

Whilst the present invention is described herein with particular reference to the features and use of an external substantially tamper-proof lifting apparatus for keys and the like, it should be S appreciated that the invention may also be applicable to and/or be adapted for use in other situations 3 where items are required to be made available only to certain people at certain times, or security of valuables for particular periods is desirable in particular circumstances such as when property owners are absent from a property.

As can be appreciated the situations in which the lifting apparatus may be used and the range of materials it may be used for, are many and varied. Further, whilst the use of the invention has been described with reference to using the lifting apparatus to lift planar sheet materials and in particular reinforcing mesh, it should also be appreciated that variations to the invention would enable the lifting apparatus to be used for lifting a range of objects made from various materials, such as plaster sheets, glass and so forth.

As can be appreciated the dimensions of the lifting apparatus, or the first and second members of the lifting apparatus, or the tines shape and dimensions are all variable, but preferably dictated by the preferred use of the lifting apparatus.

Whilst the above options have been listed it should be appreciated that the list is not definitive and other variations to the lifting apparatus, including the stabilising apparatus and so forth that may be available in the prior art, or may be adapted for use with the present invention, are also included.

For the purposes of this specification the lifting apparatus is made of strong, durable metal. Whilst stainless steel provides a unique finish, anodized, galvanised or powder coated metals may be used.

Whilst steel may be a preferred material for manufacture, it should be appreciated that other metals may be used, such as aluminium or alloy steels, for example. There are no limitations other than 1728482 1 O those imposed for practical, aesthetic, or economic reasons on the size dimensions, profile, shape and so forth of the lifting apparatus.

O

S According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing lifting apparatus, substantially as described herein.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of a bracing lifting apparatus, substantially as described herein.

IND

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided stabilising apparatus for use with lifting apparatus substantially as described herein.

Variations to the dimensions of the lifting apparatus may be desirable depending on the objects to be lifted. Regard would of course be had to effecting the desired dimensions, such as increased height or width.

The present invention is differentiated from many existing lifting apparatus by virtue of its first and second members, bracing means, stabilising means and its adaptation for use with a variety of lifting mechanisms.

In addition, it should also be appreciated that given the emphasis on moving or lifting substantially elongate and/or wide planar objects, the present invention may be interconnected with the vehicle's electrical system, so in the event that the lifting apparatus is used a flashing light system or similar would be activated to alert individuals walking or using other machinery in the area, that the objects are being moved around. There is a range of alarm systems available in the market and prior art. The present invention may be adapted for use with said alarm systems. However, it will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art, that the adaptations and interconnections required may vary between alarm systems and whilst known to a person skilled in the art, such detail of prior art alarm systems is not the ambit of the present specification.

It should be appreciated that the present invention lends itself to more than one application. Hence, the invention may be adapted through a change to one or more, or a combination, of any dimensions, numbers of support members interacting telescopically, stabilising apparatus, 1728482 1

\O

O adaptations for use with different vehicles or operating systems, locking systems, alarmed systems, and so forth. As can be appreciated variations to and from the above described embodiments may be 0 S made without deviating from the scope of the present invention.

It should further be appreciated a variety of different embodiments, uses, and applications of the present invention therefore exist, even within the ambit of the above described lifting apparatus system. Various embodiments of the present invention will now be given by way of example only, to help better describe and define the present invention. However, describing the specified embodiments should not be seen as limiting the scope of this invention.

Brief Description of Drawings Further aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the following description, given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 Figure 2 is a side perspective view of the lifting apparatus with the sheet metal reinforcing mesh being held by the lifting apparatus in an elevated position in accordance with one preferred embodiment of the present invention; and is a top perspective view of the lifting apparatus of Figure 1 in accordance with that preferred embodiment of the present invention, but with the support structure or frame in a retracted orientation; and is a top perspective view of the lifting apparatus of Figure 1 in accordance with that preferred embodiment of the present invention, but with the support structure or frame in an extended orientation; and are a top plan, end and side views showing the lifting apparatus, with one second member of the support structure in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 3 Figure 4a-c 1728482 1 Figure 5a-c Figure 6a-c Figure 7a-c Figure 8 are a top plan, end and side views showing the lifting apparatus, with one second member of the support structure in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention; and are a top plan, end and side views showing the lifting apparatus, with one second member of the support structure in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention; and are a top plan, end and side views showing the lifting apparatus, with two second members of the support structure in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention; and is a view of stabilising apparatus relative to the support structure of a preferred embodiment of the present invention; and is a view of an alternative stabilising apparatus relative to the support structure of a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 9 Best Modes for Carrying Out the Invention With reference to the diagrams (Figures I to 9) by way of example only, there is provided lifting apparatus (generally indicated by arrow 1) for raising an object such as metal reinforcing mesh (la) to enable moving the object from one location to another.

What is essentially claimed is lifting apparatus for use with a lifting mechanism, said lifting mechanism providing upward lifting of an object; said lifting apparatus including a frame, said frame being adapted to receive a portion of the lifting mechanism and said frame including multiple tines depending therefrom, said tines being adapted to be inserted beneath an object or a stack of objects; and said lifting apparatus characterised by said frame being adapted to move between and extended configuration and a retracted configuration.

The lifting apparatus is a substantially rectangular frame comprising multiple members able to be operated to extend the frame's width, depth and length dimensions as required.

1728482 1

\O

O The lifting apparatus moves the object between a first elevated position as shown in Figure 1, and a second position where the object is located substantially adjacent the surface on which it is

O

S resting as substantially shown in Figures 2 and 3.

The frame of the lifting apparatus operates as a support structure. As shown in the various embodiments of Figures 4-7c, the support structure or frame comprises at least one first member (4) in a telescopic arrangement with at least one second member The first member is adapted to move relative to the at least one second member between a retracted and an extended orientation N Each of the first or second members may include a plurality of bracing cross-members spanning there-between. The support structure may include at least one stop preventing a second member from disengaging with the first member of the support structure/frame.

Whilst the embodiments illustrated are made from lengths of box metal, the cross-sectional configuration of the support structure's first and second members may vary.

In one embodiment as shown in Figures 4-6c of the lifting apparatus, the first member and the second member extend in opposed directions. In another embodiment, as shown in Figures 7a-c Sthere may be more than one second member and as such the first member may remain stationary whilst the second members each move relative thereto.

The frame includes object supporting means in the form of multiple tines depending from the perimeter, or external edge of the frame. Each tine is a substantially elongate element adapted at its outer distal end to be bent to create a substantially L-shaped portion with the horizontal arm of the L constituting the support portion (10) maintaining the substantially straight or horizontal positioning of the object, being sheet material.

There is also optionally provided stabilising apparatus (11) for the lifting apparatus, pivotally connected (at la) to the support structure/frame for stabilising the orientation of the support structure and the object in a preferred orientation.

1728482 1

\O

The stabilising apparatus includes at least one stabilising arm (12) adapted to move between an extended and retracted position to re-orient the level of the support structure as preferred or required

O

as shown in Figures 8 and 9.

The pivotal axis (13) of the pivotal stabilising apparatus may be centred relative to the first member of the frame as shown in Figure 8. In this embodiment, the stabilising arm is connected at one distal end to the stabilising apparatus on the first member and at the other distal end may be connected to NO the first or second member designed to ensure the first and second members of the frame are aligned N horizontally.

Horizontal alignment is a necessity where the frame is used to carry or lift heavy sheet materials and where any distortion could impede the operation of the members of the support structure between the extended and retracted positions.

A central frame member or a cross-member, may be incorporated if required to provide a central pivotable axis for connection of the stabilising apparatus to ensure uniform horizontal orientation of the first member relative to the second member.

In a second embodiment, the first member may be centralized between two or more second members, each of which may move relative to the first member between retracted and extended positions.

In this latter type of embodiment, the first member may be adapted to include one or more stabilising apparatus to ensure uniform horizontal orientation of the first member with the various second members, or the stabilizing apparatus may be elongated to apply greater corrective force to the frame to correct its orientation, as shown in Figure 9.

The lifting apparatus may include locking means (not shown) to maintain the first and second member in a preferred arrangement retracted or extended for longer periods; or for maintaining a preferred alignment resulting from operation of the stabilising apparatus.

1728482 1

\O

O In use, actuating means such as either or both a pneumatic and a hydraulic force is required to move the second member from the first position to the second position and vice versa. A post (15) is provided to feed the hudraulic or pneumatic hoses (16) to the frame.

In addition, hydraulic or pneumatic power is used to stabilise the frame via operation of the stabilising arm relative to the pivotable stabilising apparatus.

The power source is typically provided by connection of the lifting apparatus to the hydraulic or pneumatic system (17) of the lifting mechanism which may be a forklift (18) as shown in Figures 1- 8 3, or may be a crane and as such a guide means or lifting portion (19) is provided on or in relation to the stabilizing apparatus as shown in Figures 8 and 9.

The support structure is adapted to releasably interconnect with a lifting cable of a hoist and pulley system or crane, or the tines of a forklift for providing the lifting power for lifting the object.

For example, the frame is preferably adapted at its exterior edge (at 20) to accommodate the tines of a forklift through complementary configured apertures in the frame's first member. Where a hoist and pulley system, or a crane is used, there is preferably provided a guide means such as a shackle, hook, or loop, which is designed to accommodate a complementarily configured hook, shackle and so forth, of the crane or hoist cable.

The first member of the support structure, or frame also preferably includes a mesh upper surface as shown in the various Figures.

This upper surface potentially serves a number of functions, for example: such as adding reinforcing to the frame; protecting the power linkages (such as the hydraulic or pneumatic linkages from the lifting mechanism as attached to the connectors on the frame); protecting the stabilising apparatus in some embodiments; minimizing objects falling from above on to the sheet materials being carried; or serving as an additional platform for carrying other objects.

The invention may be adapted through a change to any particular feature. As can be appreciated a variety of different embodiments, uses, and applications of the present invention therefore exist, even within the ambit of the above described lifting apparatus system.

1728482 1 0 It should also be understood that the term "comprise" where used herein is not to be considered as being used in a limiting sense. Accordingly, 'comprise' does not represent nor define an exclusive 0 z set of items, but includes the possibility of other components and items being added to the list.

This specification is also based on the understanding of the inventor regarding the prior art. The prior art description should not be regarded as being an authoritative disclosure of the true state of the prior art but rather as referring to considerations in and brought to the mind and attention of the inventor when developing this invention.

",N

Aspects of the present invention have been described by way of example only and it should be appreciated that modifications and additions may be made thereto without departing from the scope thereof, as defined in the appended claims.

1728482 1

Claims (27)

1. 2. Lifting apparatus as claimed in Claim I wherein said lifting mechanism includes a crane, hoist and pulley system, or a forklift.
2. 3. Lifting apparatus as claimed in Claim I wherein said object includes at least one sheet material.
3. 4. Lifting apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 wherein said frame is adapted to move between and extended configuration and a retracted configuration. Lifting apparatus as claimed in Claim 4 wherein the frame of the lifting apparatus is adapted to move between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration in a plane generally parallel to the plane of orientation of the object.
4. 6. Lifting apparatus as claimed in Claim 5 wherein the frame of the lifting apparatus is adapted to extend in a horizontal plane along either or both its longitudinal axis, and laterally thereto.
5. 7. Lifting apparatus as claimed in Claim 6 wherein the frame includes tines arranged to depend from the frame in a plane substantially perpendicular to the horizontal plane of the frame. 1728482 1
6. 8. Lifting apparatus as claimed in Claim 7 wherein the tines are adapted at one distal 0 end to attach to the frame and adapted at the other distal end to slide between the bottom surface of the object and the supporting surface for lifting of the object.
7. 9. Lifting apparatus as claimed in Claim 8 wherein the tines of the frame are optionally adapted to operate between a retracted and an extended position. Lifting apparatus as claimed in Claim 9 wherein the frame includes stabilising apparatus. ,Ic
8. 11. Lifting apparatus as claimed in Claim 10 wherein the stabilising apparatus is pivotally interconnected to the frame.
9. 12. Lifting apparatus as claimed in Claim 11 wherein the stabilising apparatus includes at least one stabilising arm.
10. 13. Lifting apparatus as claimed in Claim 12 wherein the at least one stabilising arm is separately attached to the frame.
11. 14. Lifting apparatus as claimed in Claim 13 wherein the at least one stabilising arm includes a piston means. Lifting apparatus as claimed in Claim 14 wherein the piston means of the stabilising arm extends and retracts to accommodate variations in the horizontal alignment of the frame, returning the frame to true horizontal relative to at least the horizontal alignment with the portion of the lifting mechanism with which the lifting apparatus is used.
12. 16. Lifting apparatus as claimed in Claim 15 wherein the piston means of the stabilising arm stabilises and supports the lifting apparatus. 1728482 1 \O
13. 17. Lifting apparatus as claimed in any one of Claims 6, 9 and 15 wherein the frame, 0 the tines depending therefrom and the piston of the stabilising apparatus extend or retract via operation of a power source.
14. 18. Lifting apparatus as claimed in Claim 17 wherein operation of the power source effects operation of either or both hydraulic or pneumatic means associated with Sthe frame, the tines and the stabilising apparatus to effect movement of the frame, the tine positioning and stabilization of the object. 10o 19. A method for lifting an elongate and/or flexible object using lifting apparatus including the steps of: a) providing said lifting apparatus, said lifting apparatus including a frame, said frame being adapted to receive a portion of a lifting mechanism and said frame including multiple tines depending therefrom, said tines being adapted to be inserted beneath an object or a stack of objects; and said lifting apparatus characterised by said frame being adapted to move between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration in a plane generally parallel to the object; and b) operating the frame to an extended position; and c) positioning the frame over the object; and d) effecting movement of the frame towards its retracted position adjacent the object; thereby effecting sliding of the tines of the lifting apparatus underneath a bottom surface of the object; and e) activating the lifting mechanism to lift the object. A method for stabilising an object during lifting using lifting apparatus, said lifting apparatus including a frame, said frame being adapted to receive a portion of a lifting mechanism and said frame including multiple tines depending therefrom, said tines being adapted to be inserted beneath an object or a stack of objects; said lifting apparatus characterised by said frame being adapted to move between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration in a plane 1728482 I \O generally parallel to the object; and including stabilising apparatus comprising a 0 pivotable connection between the stabilising apparatus and the frame of the lifting apparatus; and said stabilising apparatus including a stabilising arm moveable away from, and retractable towards, the frame; and means for moving and retracting the stabilising arm, said means including a piston and said piston being operated by a power source, and said lifting apparatus characterised by providing Seither or both lateral and longitudinal support for the object being lifted during r, lifting via said frame; and said method including the step of: a) operating the stabilising arm to move the frame and the object to a I 10 substantially horizontal orientation to ensure effective operation of the frame and prevent warping thereof.
15. 21. A method for stabilising an object during lifting substantially as claimed in Claim wherein either or both the stabilising apparatus and the stabilising arm is pivotally interconnected with the frame.
16. 22. An apparatus when used with lifting apparatus for stabilising said lifting apparatus, said lifting apparatus including a frame, said frame being adapted to receive a portion of a lifting mechanism and said frame including multiple tines depending therefrom, said tines being adapted to be inserted beneath an object or a stack of objects and provide a lifting support during lifting of the object; and said lifting apparatus characterised by said frame being adapted to move between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration in a plane generally parallel to the object; and said stabilising apparatus comprising a pivotable connection between the stabilising apparatus and the frame of the lifting apparatus; and said stabilising apparatus including a stabilising arm moveable away from, and retractable towards, the frame; and means for moving and retracting the stabilising arm, said means including a piston and said piston being operated by a power source. 1728482 1 \O
17. 23. A lifting mechanism when used with lifting apparatus for providing an upward 0 force, for use in lifting an object using, said lifting apparatus including a frame, said frame being adapted to receive a portion of the lifting mechanism and said frame including multiple tines depending therefrom, said tines being adapted to be inserted beneath an object or a stack of objects; and said lifting apparatus characterised by providing either or both lateral and longitudinal support for the NO object being lifted during lifting via said frame and said lifting apparatus further I characterised by said frame being adapted to move between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration in a plane generally parallel to the ,I 10 object; and including stabilising apparatus comprising a pivotable connection between the stabilising apparatus and the frame of the lifting apparatus; and said stabilising apparatus including a stabilising arm moveable away from, and retractable towards, the frame; and means for moving and retracting the stabilising arm, said means including a piston and said piston being operated by a power source.
18. 24. A lifting mechanism as claimed in Claim 23 wherein the lifting mechanism includes at least one movable part adapted to be interconnected with the lifting apparatus. A lifting mechanism as claimed in Claim 24 wherein the lifting mechanism provides the power source for moving the stabilising arm via pneumatic or hydraulic force.
19. 26. A lifting mechanism as claimed in Claim 25 wherein the means for moving the stabilising arm further comprises a pivotable mount pivotably interconnecting an end of the stabilising arm to the frame of the lifting apparatus.
20. 27. A method of manufacturing lifting apparatus, said lifting apparatus adapted for use with a lifting mechanism, said lifting mechanism providing upward lifting of an object, said method including the steps of: 1728482 1 \O a) manufacturing a frame, said frame being adapted to receive a portion of 0 the lifting mechanism and said frame including multiple tines depending therefrom, said tines being adapted to be inserted beneath an object or a stack of objects; and b) adapting said frame to move between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration in a plane generally parallel to the object; and cO including stabilising apparatus, said stabilising apparatus including a N stabilising arm moveable away from and retractable towards, the frame; and further including a pivotable connection between the stabilising C 10 apparatus and the frame of the lifting apparatus; and d)including means for moving and retracting the stabilising arm, said means including a piston and said piston being operated by a power source; and said lifting apparatus characterised by providing either or both lateral and longitudinal support for the object being lifted.
21. 28. A frame when used with lifting apparatus as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 18.
22. 29. Stabilising apparatus when used with lifting apparatus as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 18. Lifting apparatus substantially as described herein with reference to the included examples and accompanying drawings.
23. 31. A method of manufacture of lifting apparatus substantially as described herein with reference to the included examples and accompanying drawings.
24. 32. A method for lifting an elongate and/or flexible object using lifting apparatus Lifting apparatus substantially as described herein with reference to the included examples and accompanying drawings. 1728482 1 NO
25. 33. A method of stabilizing and object during lifting using lifting apparatus 0 substantially as described herein with reference to the included examples and z accompanying drawings.
26. 34. A lifting mechanism when used with lifting apparatus for providing an upward force, for use in lifting an object using lifting apparatus substantially as described Sherein with reference to the included examples and accompanying drawings. A frame when used with lifting apparatus substantially as described herein with 10 reference to the included examples and accompanying drawings.
27. 36. Stabilising apparatus when used with lifting apparatus substantially as described herein with reference to the included examples and accompanying drawings. Dated this 15th day of November 2006 ALLAN JOHN LAWRENCE SCOTT By his attorney Ian Stanley Rose MIDDLETONS 1728482 1