AU712345B2

AU712345B2 - Roll bar and crane device

Info

Publication number: AU712345B2
Application number: AU33775/97A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Malcolm Duncan
Original assignee: SWIFT LIFT Inc
Current assignee: SWIFT LIFT Inc
Priority date: 1996-06-06
Filing date: 1997-06-05
Publication date: 1999-11-04
Anticipated expiration: 2017-06-05
Also published as: GB2333073B; CA2257426C; GB2333073A; AU3377597A; WO1997046419A1; WO1997046420A1; GB9900038D0; AU3477597A; CA2257496A1; AU712316B2; CA2257426A1

Description

WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 ROLL BAR AND CRANE DEVICE TECHNICAL FITED The device of the present invention generally relates to roll bars which are primarily used on vehicles such as pickup trucks. More particularly, the device of the present invention relates to a new and improved roll bar for vehicles such as pickup trucks which also functions as a crane.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVFNTION Roll bars are very commonly used in conjunction with various vehicles and especially trucks such as pickup trucks. The roll bars are mounted on the truck bed close to the passenger cab and function to help prevent the crushing of the cab in the event the truck is accidentally overturned or rolled over.

More recently, roll bars have been constructed in a manner whereby they also function as a crane for selectively lifting and moving objects on and off the truck bed. In one such prior roll bar and crane device, the upper horizontal member of the roll bar is, at one end, pivotally connected so as to turn about a vertical axis and, at its other end, is selectively detachable from the roll bar lower portion. A hydraulic cylinder is also provided and is pivotally connected to the horizontal member near the pivotable -1- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 connection for selectively raising and lowering the horizontal member.

Thus, the roll bar upper horizontal member is selectively pivotable about a vertical axis and is also selectively pivotable and movable vertically in a manner whereby various objects can be selectively attached at the other end of the horizontal member and selectively lifted and moved on and off the truck bed.

The roll bar and crane devices of the past however have shortcomings and drawbacks. One such shortcoming is that the lifting is done exclusively through the horizontal member and the hydraulic cylinder which arrangement has a disadvantage that travel of the horizontal member is limited when lifting an object with the result that objects cannot always be lifted high enough during loading. Furthermore, the hydraulic cylinder is manually operated which requires manpower. These roll bar and crane devices are also not aesthetically pleasing and, therefore, are undesirable by many typical consumers. They are also very large and bulky and are very difficult to be packed and transported to the consumer for attachment to a vehicle or truck. Prior roll bar and crane devices are also structurally inferior and are not readily, easily or safely usable as a crane.

Accordingly, a need exists for a roll bar crane device which can be easily, readily and safely used as both a roll bar and a crane, which is aesthetically -2- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) (I WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 pleasing and which is easily packable and transportable.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is the object of the present invention to overcome or reduce at least some of the above-discussed disadvantages associated with the prior roll bar and crane devices.

One such object of the present invention is to provide a new and improved roll bar and crane device which is structurally reliable and which is easily, readily and safely usable.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a new and improved roll bar and crane device which is selectively dismantable so that it may be easily packaged and transported and selectively re-assembled on a vehicle such as a truck.

A yet further such object of the present invention is to provide a new and improved roll bar and crane device which is aesthetically pleasing and desirable.

According to the present invention there is provided a roll bar and crane -3- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCTIUS97/09734 device comprising a first leg member and a second leg member both of which are attachable to a vehicle; an elongate lifting member defining a first and a second end region; the first end region being reieasably attached to the first leg member and the second end region being attached to the second leg member to allow the lifting member to pivot at that end; and an elongate flexible member extending along at least part of the lifting member, the elongate flexible member being mounted to be extended and retracted along the lifting member to thereby lift and lower a load thus allowing the device to operate as a crane when the first end region of the lifting member is released from the first leg member and allowing the device to operate as a roll bar when the first end region is attached to the first leg member.

The elongate flexible member may extend substantially along the whole length of the lifting member and preferably also at least partly along the second leg member.

In one embodiment of the invention the elongate flexible member may extend along the outside of the lifting member.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention the elongate flexible member extends along the inside of the lifting member. The lifting member may be tubular to accommodate the elongate flexible member therein. The second -4- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCTIJS97/09734 leg member may also be at least partly tubular to accommodate the flexible member therein. The lifting member and optionally also the second leg member may be lined with a low friction liner to enhance sliding of the elongate flexible member therein. Alternatively one or more pulleys may be provided whereupon the elongate flexible member in use rides.

The second end region may be attached to the second leg member to pivot about a vertical axis. Alternatively the second end region may be attached to the second leg member to pivot about a horizontal axis.

Preferably however, the second end region is attached to the second leg member to allow the lifting member to selectively pivot about both a vertical axis and a horizontal axis.

The device may include controlling means for controlling pivoting of the lifting member about the horizontal axis. The controlling means may comprise telescoping members which telescope into and out of each other as the lifting member pivots about the horizontal axis. The controlling means may include locking means for locking the telescoping members in certain positions to each other thereby locking the lifting member in certain positions as it pivots about the horizontal axis.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 In one preferred embodiment of the invention the controlling means comprises means for lifting the lifting member to pivot about the horizontal axis. In one embodiment of the lifting means may comprise a jack and preferably it comprises a hydraulic jack.

Preferably however, the elongate flexible member is employed to serve as a lifting means for lifting the lifting member. In a preferred embodiment of the invention the lifting means comprises a pulley system defining at least one first pulley located on the lifting member; at least one second pulley located on another part of the device; and the arrangement being such that the elongate flexible member in use extends about the pulleys to pull them towards each other when the elongate flexible member is retracted, thereby lifting the lifting member.

The pulleys may form a tackle system.

The elongate flexible member may comprise a rope but preferably it comprises a cable.

The device may include an attachment formation secured to the elongate flexible member at one end thereof in use to secure the elongate flexible member to an object to be lifted by the device. The attachment formation -6- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 may comprise a hook.

The device may also include means for extending and retracting the elongate flexible member. The means may comprise a winch and preferably it comprises an electrical winch.

It will be appreciated that by retracting the elongate flexible member a load attached thereto is both lifted by pulling the load towards the lifting member and by lifting the lifting member.

A restriction mechanism may also be provided to restrict the elongate flexible member from pulling a load towards the lifting member when the elongate flexible member is retracted but allowing the pulleys to be pulled towards each other to lift the lifting member. The restriction mechanism may comprise clamping means for clamping the elongate flexible member to at least one first pulley or to the lifting member at a position between the first end region thereof and the pulleys.

An arresting means may also be provided to stop the first and second pulleys from moving towards each other. In use this feature will allow a load to be pulled towards the lifting member without lifting the lifting member.

-7- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 The device may also include lever means for pivoting the lifting member about the vertical axis of rotation. The lever means may comprise a lever releasably attachable to the device to pivot the lifting member about the vertical axis of rotation.

The device may also include controlling means for controlling pivoting of the lifting member about a vertical axis. The controlling means may comprise a locking mechanism for locking the lifting member in certain positions as it pivots about the vertical axis.

The lifting member is shaped and sized so as to preferably not extend beyond the overall shape of the vehicle cab as viewed from the vehicle front or back.

Additionally, cover members may be provided at each end of the lifting member to effectively hide or disguise from plain view components for operating the device as a crane. The cover members may be made of materials such as metal, wood, polyurethane or plastic and may be attached to the lifting member at each end region thereof at least on one side of the lifting member and preferably, facing the back of the vehicle to which the device is operatively attached and placing the lifting member between the cover members and the vehicle cab defined by the vehicle. In another -8- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 preferred embodiment, at least two cover members are provided at each end region of the lifting member in a manner whereby the end regions are sandwiched therebetween.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Without thereby limiting the scope of the invention and by means of example only embodiments thereof will now be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein: Figure 1 is a rear view of a roll bar and crane device according to the present invention (but excluding an elongate flexible member) as would typically be seen from a rear of a vehicle upon which the device is adapted to be mounted; Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the roll bar and crane device of Figure 1 but including a winch and showing the device as would be dismantled; Figure 3 is a side view of the roll bar and crane device of Figure 1 but with a modified leg structure and without any cover members thereon; -9- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 Figure 4 is an enlarged rear view of part of the roll bar and crane device of Figure 3; Figure 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of the roll bar and crane device of Figure 1 taken along line Figure 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of the roll bar and crane device of Figure 4 taken along line 6-6; Figure 7 is a top plan view of the pivot member of Figure 6 without the lifting member; Figure 8a is a partial side view of the roll bar and crane device of Figure 4 and depicting the pivot member and cap along with the locking mechanism for selectively locking and preventing movement of the lifting member about the vertical axis; is a cross-sectional view of the portion of the device of Figure 8a taken along line 8b-8b; Figure 8b Figure 9 is a top plan view of the roll bar and crane device of Figure 3 showing possible motion of the lifting member about the vertical SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 axis in single dash lines and a vehicle upon which the device may be mounted in double-single dash lines; Figure 10 is a rear view of the device of Figure 9 showing the lifting member movable in various different positions in dash lines and a vehicle upon which the device may be mounted in doublesingle dash lines; Figure 11 is a perspective view of the roll bar and crane device shown in Figure 3 mounted on a vehicle and wherein a winch is provided on the connecting beam and shown being used for moving a log; Figure 12 is a perspective view similar to Figure 11 but wherein the lifting member has been released from the first leg member and the winch rope operating via the lifting member; Figure 13 is a rear view of a roll bar and crane device similar to that of Figure 1 but incorporating different cover members sandwiching the first and second end regions of the lifting member; is a side view of the roll bar and crane device of Figure 13 and showing the front and rear cover members sandwiching and -11- Figure 14 SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 covering an end region of the lifting member; Figure 15 Figure 16 is a top plan view of the roll bar and crane device of Figures 13 and 14; and is a side view of yet another embodiment of a roll bar and crane device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention but excluding an elongate flexible member; is a partial rear view of a roll bar and crane device according to the invention, incorporating an elongate flexible member and pulleys for causing pivotal motion of the lifting member about the horizontal axis of rotation and thereby lifting objects; Figure 17 Figure 18 is a partial rear view of the roll bar and crane device of Figure 17 and wherein the lifting member is shown pivoted upwardly; Figure 19 is a partial side view of the roll bar and crane device of Figure 17 and showing the pulley mechanism; Figure 20 is a partial rear view of another embodiment of a roll bar and crane device incorporating an elongate flexible member and -12- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 pulleys constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention; Figure 21 is a partial rear view of the roll bar and crane device shown in Figure 20 and showing the boom pivoted upwardly; and Figure 22 is a rear view of yet an alternative embodiment of a roll bar or crane device according to the invention which includes an elongate flexible member.

Corresponding reference numerals one used to denote corresponding parts.

The exemplifications set out herein illustrate preferred embodiments of the invention in one form thereof and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure or the scope of the invention in any manner.

DETAIL DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC

EMBODIMENTS

Figures 1 to 10 and 13 to 16 show roll bar and crane devices excluding an 1 5 elongate flexible member. The figures accordingly illustrate only part of the invention and the full invention is further described in Figures 12 and 17 to 22.

-13- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 Referring initially to Figure 1, a roll bar and crane device is generally designated by the numeral 10 and is illustrated and shown fully assembled and in the roll bar position. The device 10 includes a first leg member 12 and a second leg member 14 connected to each other by means of a connecting member 16 extending therebetween to brace them in an upright configuration. Each of the first and second leg members 12 and 14 includes a vertical leg 18 with a pad 20 at the lower end thereof. Each of the first and second leg members 12 and 14 also includes a bracing leg 22 which extends downwardly at an angle from the upright leg 18 to support it in an upright configuration. The bracing legs 22 are at their upper ends, affixed to the upper ends of vertical legs 18 and at their lower ends include a pad 24.

Both vertical legs 18 and bracing legs 22 are made of steel tubular sections which are cut to length and bent as may be needed. The bracing legs 22 may be affixed to the legs 18 by welding [Figure 3] or may be releasably attached to the vertical legs 18 as shown in Figures 1 and 2. Pads 20 and 24 are preferably cut from plate steel material and are welded or otherwise affixed by suitable means to the respective lower ends of vertical legs 18 and bracing legs 24. Pads 20 and 24 are provided with holes (not shown) or other means by which they may be ridgedly affixed to a vehicle bed 26 and/or a vehicle wheel well 28 as, for example, shown in Figure 3. It is noted that in Figure 3 a typical vehicle such as a pickup truck is shown in double-single dash lines -14- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

I

WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 including a cab 30, wheels 32, pickup bed walls 34 along with the pickup bed 26 and wheel wells 28.

As best seen in Figures 1 and 2, first and second leg members 12 and 14 are each further provided with cylindrical socket formations 36. The cylindrical socket formations 36 are also made of steel tube material and are affixed as shown generally to the upper portion of each of the vertical legs 18 in a position which is generally perpendicular to or 900 from the bracing legs 22.

Below socket formations 36, each of the first and second leg members 12 and 14 are provided with leg attachment plates 38 preferably made of plate steel.

At each of the first and second legs 12 and 14, the leg attachment plates 38 are affixed by welding or other suitable means to the cylindrical socket formation 36. The cylindrical socket formations 36 and leg attachment plates 38 are also affixed to the vertical legs 22 by welding or other suitable means.

It is noted that, as best seen in Figure 5, the leg attachment plates 38 are located slightly to the left or right of a plane extending centrally through both the cylindrical socket formation 36 and vertical legs 18. Holes 40 are provided and extend through cylindrical socket formations 36 and holes 42 are provided and extend through the leg attachment plates 38.

The connecting member 16 is an elongate beam made of steel tube material having a sufficient diameter and thickness and being cut to the proper length.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 The beam 16 defines first and second ends defining, reduced diameter portions 44 having an outer diameter slightly smaller than the inner diameter of cylindrical socket formations 36 and, further, having a longitudinal length which is adapted to be substantially totally received within the cylindrical socket formations 36. Holes 46 are also provided on the reduced diameter portions 44 and are fully received within the cylindrical socket formations, 36, holes 44 and holes 40 become aligned with respect one another.

At each end of beam 16, there are also provided beam attachment plates in the form of brace members 48 which are made of plate steel material and which are generally triangularly shaped. Each brace members 48 is affixed to the central beam 16 along a portion of one leg of the triangularly shape thereof as shown by welding or other suitable means. Along the other leg of the brace member 48 triangularly shape, a plurality of holes 50 are provided and are located such that when the reduced diameter portions 44 are fully received within the cylindrical socket formations 36, the respective brace members 48 are located adjacent the leg attachment plates 38 as shown in Figure 5 and, further, the holes 50 of brace members 48 are aligned with the holes 42 of leg attachment plates 38.

As can now be appreciated, the beam 16 is selectively releasably attachable to the first and second leg members 12 and 14 to allow the device 10 to be -16- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 dismantled for easier packing packaging and transporting. Furthermore, for attachment of the beam 16 to the respective first and second leg members 12 and 14, the respective ends of the beam 16 are joined with the respective first and second leg members 12 and 14 by placing the reduced diameter portions 44 within the cylindrical socket formations 36 and the brace members 48 adjacent the leg attachment plates 38. In this position, the leg members 12 and 14 are secured to the beam 16 with locking members in the form of bolt and nut combinations 52 received through aligned holes 42 and 50 and locking members in the form of nut bolt combinations 54 received through aligned holes 40 and 46. As shown in Figure 5 and similar to leg attachment plates 38, the brace members 48 are located slightly to the left or right of a plane extending centrally along both the cylindrical socket formations 36 and vertical legs 18.

The bracing legs 22 may be welded to the vertical legs 18 as shown in Figure 3. In a preferred embodiment of the invention (as shown especially in Figure 2) the bracing legs 22 are selectively releasably attachable to the vertical legs 18. This enhances packing, packaging and transport of the device 10 and also allows different size and shape bracing legs 22 to be used for adapting the device 10 to be used with various different vehicles and truck beds. The interconnection between bracing legs 22 and vertical legs 18 can be similar to the interconnection between the beam 16 and vertical legs 18.

-17- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 In a preferred embodiment as best shown in Figure 2 each bracing leg 22 is releasably attachable to the vertical leg S1 by means of a spigot and socket attachment. As shown in Figure 2 a spigot formation 22.1 with a reduced diameter portion 22.3 is provided on each vertical leg 18 and a socket formation 22.4 is provided in the bracing leg 22 for receiving the portion 22.3 therein.

Each pad 24 is also releasably attachable to the bracing leg 22 by means of a spigot and socket attachment 22.5 to 22.7 similar to the spigot and socket attachment 22.1 to 22.4. This feature also allows the pad 24 to be rotated prior to securing it, in order that it extends generally horizontally [as shown in the drawings] or generally vertically if it is so required [not shown]. The pad 24 can thus be secured to a generaliy horizonal surface or a generally vertical surface.

Referring now more particularly to Figure 2, 4 and 6-81, the roll bar and crane device 10 includes a pivot member 56 attached or attachable to the second leg member 14. Pivot member 56 includes inner tube section 58 also made of steel tubular material and cut to length. At its upper end, inner tube section 58 is closed with a disk portion 60. As best seen in Figures 6 and 8b. inner tube member 58 has an outer diameter which is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of a vertical leg 18 of the second leg member 14.

-18- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 Accordingly, inner tube member 58 is freely rotatably about a vertical axis 62 within the vertical leg 18. At the upper end of pivot member 56 there is also provided a cap 64 including a cylindrical portion 66. Cap 64 is provided with a hole 68 through which the inner tube section 58 extends. Cap 64 is also made of steel and inner tube member 58 and cap 64 are welded together as best seen in Figures 6 and 8b thereby forming a cylindrical channel therebetween. The inner diameter of cylindrical portion 66 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of vertical leg 18 and the upper portion of vertical leg 18 is received within the channel 70. The upper annular surface or rim 72 abuts and slides on the annular surface 74 located on the cap 64 and between the inner tube section 58 and the cylindrical portion 66. As can be appreciated, annular surfaces 72 and 74 are vertically bearing so as to transfer vertical forces downwardly from the cap 64 to the vertical leg 18. Grease and/or other lubricating oil can be placed within and between channel 70 for decreasing the friction between the components as the cap 64 and inner tube section 58 are rotated about the vertical axis 62 and over the vertical leg 18.

Grease nippels [not shown] may be provided for this purpose.

Alternatively and more preferably, the thrust or vertical downward forces and pivotal motion about vertical axis 62 is more easily accomplished with structure such as that shown at the bottom of vertical leg 18 in Figure 4.

Here, the inner tube section 58 is provided with a cap or an otherwise disc -19- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCTUS97/09734 surface 59 at its lower end thereof. Below cap 59 there is provided a thrust bearing, washer or disc 61. Thrust bearing 61 can be made of Teflon or other similar structurally ridged low friction materials. Thrust bearing 61, in combination with the lower portion of inner tube section 58, thus allows the pivot member 56 to more easily and freely rotate about the vertical axis 62. Grease and/or other lubricating oil can be placed at this position.

Grease nippels may again be provided for this purpose.

As more fully described hereinbelow, an elongate lifting member 76 which also functions as the upper part of the roll bar is pivotally connected to the pivot member 56 and with the pivot member it is rotatable about vertical axis of rotation 62. In this regard, a controlling means in the form of a locking mechanism generally designated by the numeral 78 is provided and functions to selectively lock the pivot member 56 and elongate lifting member in a plurality of distinct positions as they pivot about vertical axis 62. Locking mechanism 78 includes a generally square channel 80 also made of steel and affixed to the vertical leg 18 by welding or other suitable means.

Square channel 80 is open at its upper end and is closed at its lower end.

Square channel 80 includes an elongate slot 82. A tongue member 84 is slidingly received within the square channel 80 and a compression spring 86 is located within and at the lower end of square channel 80 for biassing or pushing the tongue member 84 vertically upwardly. As best seen in Figure SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 8a, compression spring 86 pushes tongue member 84 vertically upwardly and within one of a plurality of slots 87 located in the cylindrical portion 66 of cap 64.

As can be appreciated, when tongue member 84 is in its upper position as shown in Figures 8a and 8b and is received within a channel 87, rotation of the pivot member 56 and lifting member 76 about vertical axis 62 is effectively prevented. For allowing such pivotal motion, a threaded rod 88 is provided and is affixed to the tongue member 84 and extends out of the square channel 80 through the elongate slot 82. A knob 90 having a threaded bore is threadingly received on threaded rod 88 and is selectively threadingly turned for frictionally engaging and sandwiching the outer wall of square channel 80 between tongue member 84 and knob 90. As should now be evident, by first turning and loosening knob 90, the knob 90 and tongue member 84 can be pushed and forced downwardly against the force of compression spring 86 and out of the slots 87 of cylindrical portion 66.

By turning and tightening knob 90 while tongue 84 is in its lowermost position, tongue 84 can be retained thereat and thereby allowing the pivot member 56 and lifting member 76 to freely rotate about the vertical axis of rotation 62. However, by turning and loosening knob 90 compression spring 86 again forces tongue member 84 upwardly and into one of the plurality of slots S7 thereby again stopping or limiting pivotal motion of the -21- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCTUS97/09734 pivot member 56 and lifting member 76 about the vertical axis of rotation 62.

As best seen in Figure 2, at the lower end of inner tube section 58, a horizontal slot 92 is provided and is adapted to receive a bolt 94 therethrough after inner tube member 58 has been fully inserted within the vertical leg 18. A threaded hole (not shown) is located through vertical leg 18 which is aligned with !orizontal slot 92 when inner tube member 58 is fully inserted into vertical leg 18. Bolt 94 is threadingly received through the threaded hole of vertical leg 18 and extends through the horizontal slot 92 of inner tube section 58.

At the upper end of pivot member 56, a pair of gussets 96 forming a bracket are provided to extend generally over cap 64. Gussets 96 are preferably made of plate steel material and are affixed to cap 64 by welding or other suitable means. For additional strength, gussets 96 are also affixed to the upper end of inner tube section 58 extending up and through the cap 64. In this regard, a pair of spacers 98 are located between each of the gussets 96 and the upper portion of inner tube member 58 and, preferably, gussets 96, spacers 98 and the upper end of inner tube member 58 are affixed to one another by welding or other suitable means. It is noted that spacers 98 are provided for locating gussets 96 apart from one another at a desired distance and different -22- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 size spacers may be incorporated or the spacers themselves can be totally eliminated if desired. As best shown in Figure apertures 96.1 are provided in each of the gussets 96 and in use a lever [not shown] can be inserted in the apertures 96.1 to rotate the pivot member 56 and lifting member 76 about the vertical axis 62. The apertures 96.1 and lever define a lever means.

The elongate lifting member 76 comprises a central region 101, a first end region 102, and a second end region 100, the end regions extending generally transversely from the central region 101 to provide the lifting member 76 with a generally U-shaped configuration. Lifting member 76 is also made of steel tubing material and is formed preferably by bending the steel tubing for forming the second and first end regions 100 and 102. The end of second end region 100 is partially located between gussets 96 and includes a hole which is aligned with holes at the upper end of gussets 96 and through which a bolt 104 extends. Bolt 104 is secured and is retained in place by a nut 106.

As should now be evident, the lifting member 76 is pivotable about bolt 104 and about a horizontal axis of rotation 108a.

The device 10 also includes a controlling means for controlling pivoting of the lifting member 76 about the horizontal axis of rotation 108a and the controlling means comprises a hydraulic jack or cylinder 108 pivotally connected between the upper portion of pivot member 56 and the lifting -23- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCTUS97/09734 member 76. Hydraulic jack 108 includes a fluid pumping mechanism 110 including a pump handle receiving cylinder 112, a pressure release valve control port, and a cylinder 116 which is selectively telescopically extendable and retractable. A pump handle (not shown) is received in a know and customary manner within pump handle receiving cylinder 112 and is selectively oscillated for pumping the hydraulic jack 108 and causing the cylinder 116 to be extended. A valve control handle 118 is received in and coupled with the valve control port 114 in a manner whereby the turning of handle 118 selectively releases the pressure within hydraulic jack 108 and causes the cylinder 116 to be retracted.

The base 120 of hydraulic jack 108 is located between a portion of the gussets 96 and is provided with a hole which is aligned with holes in the gussets 96 and which receive therethrough a nut and bolt combination 122.

Accordingly, hydraulic jack 108 may pivot about the nut and bolt combination 122. At the other end of hydraulic jack 108, cylinder 116 is pivotally connected to gussets 124 through the use of a nut and bolt combination 126. Gussets 124 are generally triangularly shaped and preferably made of plate steel and are affixed to the lifting member 76 by welding or other suitable means. In this regard, the upper part of cylinder 116 is provided with a hole which is aligned with holes located on the gussets 124 and the nut and bolt combination 126 is received therethrough -24- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 for securing and allowing pivotal motion between cylinder 116 and gussets 124.

In yet another alternative preferred embodiment, as shown in Figure 16, the horizonal axis of rotation is located on the central region 101 of lifting member 76. In this embodiment, the pivot member 56 is constructed with the second end region 100 of the lifting member 76, directly affixed to the gussets 96 thereby forming part of the pivot member 56. Second end region 100 is affixed to both gussets 96 and cap 64 by welding or other suitable means. At its upper end the second end region 100 is cut away from the central region 101 and pivot gussets 125 are provided on both sides of the second end region 100 and central region 101. Pivot gussets 125 are affixed to the central region 101 by welding or other suitable means. Pivot gussets 125 are also pivotally connected to the hydraulic cylinder 116 via nut and bolt combination 126 and are also pivotally connected to second end region 100 via a nut and bolt combination 123. As can be appreciated, in this embodiment the pivot member 56 is effectively lengthened and the horizontal axis of rotation of the lifting member 76 extends coaxially through the nut and bolt combination 123. Thus, by selectively extending or retracting the cylinder 116 of hydraulic jack 108, lifting member 76 is selectively pivoted about nut and bolt combination 123.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 The device of Figure 16 also includes a controlling mechanism in the form of a locking mechanism 123 which is an alternative to the locking mechanism 78. In this case a flange formation 123.1 with apertures 123.2 therein is provided on the vertical leg 18. A sleeve 123.4 with a pin 123.5 is slidingly received through the sleeve 123.4 to engage and disengage the apertures 123.2. The pin 123.5 includes a transverse arm 123.6 which in use engages a hook formation 123.7 to retain the pin 123.5 in a upward position wherein it is disengaged from the apertures 123.2 thereby allowing the lifting member 76 to freely rotate about the vertical axis. To arrest rotation of the lifting member 76 about the vertical axis the pin 123.5 is inserted into a suitable aperture 123.2.

Referring again to the device 10 of Figures 1 and 2 the first end region 102 of the lifting member 76 is provided with an eyelet 128 which is received within the vertical leg 18 of the first leg member 12 whenever the lifting member 76 is attached to the first leg member 12 as shown in Figure 1.

Alternatively [not shown] a hook formation may be provided in stead of the eyelet 128. Additionally, the first end region 102 of the lifting member 76 is releasably secured to the vertical leg 18 of first leg member 12 by a latch 103.

From the foregoing, it should now be evident that lifting member 76 can be -26- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) 0 WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 placed in a roll bar position by attaching the first end region 102 to the first leg member 12 as shown in Figure 1. In the alternative, the first end region 102 can be released from the first leg member 12 allowing the lifting member 76 to be used for lifting objects as may be needed or desired. The lifting member 76 can be placed in various different positions as may be needed and the versatility and some of the various positions are depicted and shown in Figures 9 and 10 in dash lines.

Referring now to Figures 2, 11 and 12 a means such as a winch 30 for winding up or paying out an elongate flexible member is provided and is located and mounted either on the lifting member 76 or the beam 16.

Winch 130 is preferably operated by an electric motor although is it also contemplated that hand operated winches can also be used. The winch 130 is affixed to the beam 16 or lifting member 76 by welding, bolts, and/or with other suitable means. Winch 130 includes an elongate flexible member such as rope or steel cable 132 which is extendable and selectively retractable in a known and customary manner. As shown in Figure 11, the rope or steel cable 132 can be extended and used while the roll bar and crane device is operating as a roll bar. In the alternative, when the roll bar and crane device 10 is used as a crane, the rope or steel cable 132 can be extended through eyelet 128 for pulling and lifting objects such as a log 134.

-27- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 So as to provide a more aesthetically pleasing roll bar and crane device and provide for greater safety during operation of the device as a crane, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, there are provided first and second cover members 136 and 138. Cover members 136 and 138 are shaped generally as mirror images of one another and having curvilinear outer portion 140 having a shape quite similar that of lifting member 76 near its respective end regions 100 and 102.

Cover members 136 and 138 also include an inner arm portion 142. An opening 144 is provided and is located between the curvilinear outer portions 140 and the inner arm portion 142. The cover members 136 and 138 may be made of wood, polyurethane, plastic or other suitable materials and are affixed to one side of the lifting member 76 as best shown in Figure 1. The cover members 136 and 138 are affixed by fasteners such as screws, adhesives and/or other suitable means. The inner arm portion 142 of cover member 138 functions to generally cover or disguise the hydraulic jack 108 from plain view while the inner arm portion 142 of the cover member 136 functions for aesthetics with respect to the overall appearance of the roll bar and crane device The inner arm portion 142 of the cover member 138 is also provided with a slot 146 wherethrough the valve control handle 118 extends for interconnection within the valve control port. It is noted that he pump handle (not shown) is also inserted through the slot 146 when placing within -28- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

M-

WO 97/46419 PCTIUS97/09734 the pump handle receiving cylinder 112 of the hydraulic jack 108. The slot 146 is located and is sized so that the pump handle and the valve control handle 118 extend through the slot 146 and move therein relative to the motion of cover member 138 as the cylinder 116 is extended retracted. In the alternative, hydraulic jack 108 can be provided with the fluid pumping mechanism 110 and the pump handle receiving cylinder 112 on the opposite side of the hydraulic jack 108 shown in Figure 2. In such an embodiment, only the valve control handle 118 extends through the slot 146 and the pump handle is inserted into the pump handle receiving cylinder 112 through the cover opening 144. This embodiment is best seen in Figure 1 where the pump handle receiving cylinder 112 is slightly visible through the cover opening 144.

An additional cover member 148, also made of the same materials as the cover members 136 and 138, is also provided but is generally kidney shaped.

Cover member 148 is affixed to the upper portion of pivot member 56, namely to one of the gusset members 96 or cap 64 with fasteners such as screws, adhesives and/or other suitable means. Thus, cover member 148 remains stationary while cover member 138 and lifting member 76 may be pivoted.

In an alternative embodiment as shown in Figures 13, 14 and 15, a first -29- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 forward cover member 150 is provided on the other side of the lifting member 76 and the first cover member 136. Similarly, a second forward cover member 152 is provided on the other side of lifting member 76 and the second cover member 138. First forward cover member 150 is essentially a mirror image of first cover member 136 and second forward cover member 152 is essentially a mirror image of a second cover member 138. In this embodiment, however, cover members 136, 138, 150 and 152 are most preferably made of plastic by injection molding or vacuum forming and/or forming a polyurethane. When assembled to the lifting member 76, cover members 136 and 150 sandwich and enclose at least a part of the first end region 102, and cover members 138 and 152 sandwich and enclose at least a portion of the second end region 100. Here, the covers are affixed to the lifting member 76 and/or the opposing cover members with fasteners such as screws, adhesives and other suitable means.

Finally, it is noted that the overall shape of the lifting member 76 and the cover members 136, 138, 150 and 152 are shaped as generally shown, similar to, and at least somewhat smaller than the vehicle cab adjacent thereto.

In Figure 9 there are depicted pads 20 at the lower end of vertical legs 18 of a substantially larger size. These pads 20 provide a greater surface area and distribute the forces of the roll bar and crane device 10 over a larger surface SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 area of the vehicle bed 26.

Referring now to Figures 17 to 21, the embodiments shown of the roll bar and crane device 10 incorporate a lifting means in the form of a pulley system generally designated by numeral 200 which is used for both rotating lifting member 76 about the horizontal axis of rotation and lifting objects towards the lifting member 76. In the embodiment shown in Figures 17 to 19, the second end region 100 is pivotally connected to gussets 202 via a nut and bolt combination 204. Gussets 202, similar to the embodiment shown in Figure 2, are affixed to cap 64 and form a part of the pivot member 56.

Essentially, the pair of gussets 202 sandwich the end region 100 of lifting member 76 and the bolt of the nut and bolt combination 204 extend through aligned holes in both of the gussets 202 and the end region 100. Lifting member 76, is thus, rotatable about a horizontal axis of rotation which is coaxial with the nut and bolt combination 204. Gussets 202 are preferably made of plate steel and are attached to cap 64 by welding or other suitable means.

At the gussets upper end 206, a nut and bolt combination or pulley shaft 208 extends between the gussets 202 generally perpendicularly. Although a nut and bolt combination is shown and depicted, it is contemplated that a simple shaft can be located thereat and welded or otherwise affixed thereat by other -31-- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97109734 suitable means. Pulleys 210 and 212 are rotatably mounted on the pulley shaft 208 so as to rotate therearound and around the horizonal axis of rotation 108.

At the lowermost end of end region 100, there are provided a pair of lift arms 214 which are affixed to the end region 100 of lifting member 76 and extend away therefrom as shown. Lift arms 214 are also preferably made of plate steel and are affixed to the end region 100 by welding or other suitable means. Generally, at the outer end of the lift arms 214 furthest away from the end region 100, there is also provided a nut and bolt combination or a pulley shaft 216 similar to the pulley shaft 208. Here, pulleys 218 and 220 are rotatably mounted on the pulley shaft 216 and are freely rotatable therearound.

A winch which is diagrammatically depicted by the numeral 222 is mounted on the pivot member 56 so as to be rotatable therewith about the vertical axis of rotation 62. Preferably, a platform 224 made of plate steel is affixed to the cap 64 by welding of other suitable means and the winch 222 is mounted or otherwise affixed on platform 224. Winch 222 is preferably electrically driven, although a hand operated winch would also suffice.

At the lift end 226 of lifting member 76, which preferably but not necessary -32- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCTIUS97/09734 includes the first end region 102, there is provided a pulley 228 which is rotatably connected to the lift end 226 via a nut and bolt combination or pulley shaft 230. The rope or braided steel cable 132 extends over pulley 228 and through a slot or hole (not shown) in the end region 102 and back along the outside of lifting member 76 toward pulley system 200. The rope 132, as best seen in Figures 17 to 19 extends out of the winch 222 and up and over pulley 218, pulley 210, pulley 220 and finally over pulley 212 and out toward the lift end 226 and pulley 228.

In an alternative embodiment [not shown] the rope 132 may be located within the tubular lifting member 76 which may be lined with a low friction liner to enhance sliding of the rope 132 therein.

Accordingly, the rope 132 is selectively retracted or extended from the winch 222 and an object to be lifted is attached to the end thereof beyond pulley 228.

Winch 222 is used for retracting or pulling the rope into the winch and placing the rope 132 in tension. This tension provides a pulling force between pulley shafts 208 and 216 and thereby causing the lift arm 214 to be pivoted about the horizontal axis of rotation 108 and nut and bolt combination 204 and thereby causing lifting member 76 to be lifted as shown -33- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 in Figure 18. The pulleys 210, 212, 218 and 220 form a tackle system for multiplying the effective pulling force between the pulley shafts 208 and 216.

Further, additional pulleys may be added on pulley shafts 208 and 216 and the rope 132 may also be wrapped therearound for further multiplying the effective pulling force.

As should now be appreciated and be evident to one skilled in the art, various factors can bet set and/or modified as may be needed for varying and providing the necessary tension for lifting objects via rope 132 and causing the lifting member 76 to be pivoted upwardly about the horizontal axis or rotation 108. These include, for example, the length of the lifting member 76 between pulley shaft 230 and nut and bolt combination 204, the length between the nut and bolt combination 204 and the pulley shaft 216, the number of pulleys on the pulley shafts 208 and 216, the potential tension that may be created by winch 222, and the various frictional forces between the various components. Further yet, depending on the weight of the object that is to be attached at the end of rope 132 and lifted and these various factors, the object will either first be pulled up to the lift end 226 or the lifting member 76 will be caused to pivot upwardly about the horizontal axis of rotation 108.

So as to first cause the boom 76 to be pivoted about the horizonal axis of -34- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 rotation 108, a restriction mechanism is provided on pulley 212 for effectively restricting or preventing the rope 132 from moving thereover. In this fashion, tension placed on the rope 132 by winch 222 is prevented from pulling the rope 132 over pulley 228 and pulley 212 to pull an object to the lifting member 76 so that the rope and pulley system 200 function to only pull together pulley shafts 208 and 216 and the pulleys thereon and only cause lifting member 76 to be lifted and pivoted upwardly about the horizontal axis of rotation 108.

In Figure 19, the restriction mechanism includes an outer U-shaped member 232 secured to bolt 208 and pulley 212 is located within the U-shaped member 232. Outer U-shaped member 232 can be rotatable with bolt 208 as shown or affixed to one or both of the gussets 202 (not shown). A bolt 234 extends through a threaded hole in the outer U-shaped member 232 and forces the inner U-shaped member 236 and the friction member 238 toward pulley 212. Accordingly, the rope 132 is sandwiched between the friction member 238 and the pulley 212 and is thereby effectively prevented from slipping over pulley 212 by means of a clamping action. Friction member 238 is made of a rubber or other suitable material for providing the necessary clamping frictional force but not damaging the rope 132. A spring 240 may be provided around bolt 234 and between the inner U-shaped member 236 and the outer U-shaped member 232. Referring now to the embodiment SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 shown in Figures 20 and 21, a pair of gussets 242 are provided and are affixed to the pivot member 56 quite similar to gussets 202. Gussets 242 extend upwardly and have an upper end 244 generally in line with the lifting member 76. Lifting member 76 is pivotally attached to gussets 242 via a nut and bolt combination 246 at a location on the lifting member 76 between the lift end 226 and the other end or pivot end 248. Thus, the horizontal axis of rotation in this embodiment extends through and is coaxial with the nut and bolt combination 246.

An arresting means [not shown] may also be provided to stop the shafts 208 and 216 with the pulleys thereon to move towards each other. The arresting means may comprise a bar which may be provided to extend from the shaft 208 to the shaft 216. This feature will allow a load to be pulled towards the lifting member 76 without lifting the lifting member 76.

The pivot end 248 of lifting member 76 is generally open so as to allow access to the interior of that tube member and the pulleys 210 and 212 are rotatably mounted near that opening so as to rotate about a nut and bolt combination or pulley shaft 250. The pulleys 218 and 220 in this embodiment are rotatably mounted on a nut and bolt combination or pulley shaft 252 located on and extending between the gussets 242. The winch 222 is mounted on the platform 224 which, along with the gussets 242, are part -36- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 of the pivot member 56 and are adapted to rotate about the vertical axis of rotation 62. The rope 132 extending out of winch 222 extends up and over pulley 210, pulley 220 located on pulley shaft 252 (not shown) pulley 212 located on pulley shaft 250 (not shown) and then through the lifting member 76 on the inside thereof toward the lift end 226. At the lift end 226 there is provided a pulley 254 rotatably mounted on nut and bolt combination or pulley shaft 256 which is located substantially at the bend between end region 102 and the central portion 101 of lifting member 76.

In operation of the embodiment shown in Figures 20 and 21, retracting or pulling the rope 132 by winch 222 after an object has been attached at the end of rope 132 creates a pulling force between pulley shafts 250 and 252 thereby causing lifting member 76 to pivot about the horizontal axis of rotation at nut and bolt combination 246 and lifting the lift end 226 as depicted in Figure 21. Similarly in this embodiment, various factors must be considered and can be modified or set as needed by one skilled in the art for lifting various objects and causing the lift end 226 to be first lifted or the object attached to the end of rope 132 to be first pulled up toward the lift end 226. These factors include, for example, the distance between pulley shaft 230 and nut and bolt combination 246, the distance between the nut bolt combination 246 and pulley shaft 250, the location of pulley shaft 252 on gussets 242, the number of pulleys located on the pulley shafts 250 and -37- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) N __M WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 252, the weight of the object that is being lifted, and the tension that can be created by winch 222.

It is further noted that, with respect to the embodiments shown in Figures 17 to 21, the lift end 226 is also selectively detachably attachable to the other of the roll bar and crane device legs 18 (not shown) similar to the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 16. For example, a latch 103 or other similar mechanical latching device can be incorporated for selectively releasably attaching the lift end 226 to the other vertical leg 18 of the roll bar and crane device. Also, the cover members 136 and 138 can be incorporated with the embodiments of Figures 16 to 21 for hiding from plain view the rope and pulley system 200 and the other components and making these roll bar and crane devices more aesthetically pleasing and safe to use.

The embodiments of Figures 17 to 21 as should now be appreciated incorporate only a single winch and a rope and pulley system which together function to both pull objects to be lifted up to the lifting end 226 of lifting member 76 and, also, to cause the pivotal motion of lifting member 76 about the horizontal axis of rotation. This is accomplished without any need for a hydraulic jack and is, thus, relatively cost effective and less manual labour is required while providing a reliable and safe roll bar and crane device.

-38- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 Referring now to Figure 22 a roll bar and crane device is provided similar to that of Figure 1. In this case controlling means in the form of telescopic members 301 and 302 are pivotally connected to gussets 96 and gussets 124 respectively to control pivoting of the lifting member 76 about the horizontal axis. The telescoping member 301 telescopes into the member 303 to allow the lifting member 76 to pivot about a horizontal axis. In use a pin [not shown] or other locking means is inserted through registering holes 303 in the members 301 and 302 to prevent the members 301 and 302 from telescoping thereby preventing pivoting of the lifting member 76 about the horizontal axis.

A winch 304 [preferably an electrical winch] is provided and a rope [or cable] 305 extends therefrom through the tubular vertical leg 18 and the tubular lifting member 76 both of which may be lined with a low friction liner [not shown] to enhance sliding of the rope 305 therein. A hook 306 and swivel joint 307 is provided on one end of the rope 305. The end of the lifting member 76 at that end is also releasably attached to the leg member 12 to serve as a roll bar.

To use the device as a crane the lifting member 76 is released from the leg member 12 and rotated by hand about the horizontal axis to the desirable height. The telescopic members 301 and 302 are then locked to each other -39- SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) WO 97/46419 PCT/US97/09734 to retain it in that position. The lifting member may also be rotated about a vertical axis to a desired position as shown by the broken lines. The winch 304 may then be operated to extend the rope 305 and a load may than be engaged. The load may be lifted by operating the winch 304 to retract the rope 305 and the lifting may then be pivoted about the vertical axis of rotation to provide the load on the position at which it has to be placed.

The winch 304 is then again operated to let the load down.

The rope 305 and winch 304 improves the height at which objects can be lifted since the lifting is not limited by the travel of the lifting member 76 when pivoting about a horizontal axis. The use of a winch also makes the lifting easier compared to a jack or the like which has to be operated manually.

While the invention has been described as having specific embodiments, it will be understood that it is capable of further modifications. This application is therefore, intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention following the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains and fall within the limits of the appended claims.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

Claims

1. A roll bar and crane device comprising: an elongate lifting member defining a first and a second end region; said second end region being adapted to be mounted to a vehicle and to be selectively pivotable about both a vertical axis of rotation and horizontal axis of rotation; wherein said first end region is selectively releasably attachable to the vehicle whereby, when said first end region is attached to the vehicle, said device functions as a roll bar; and, pulley and rope means for selectively pivoting said lifting member about said horizontal axis of rotation and selectively moving said lifting member first end S region vertically up and down.

2. The device of claim 1 further comprising a lift arm fixed to said lifting member, said pulley and rope means applying a force on said lift arm for selectively pivoting said lifting member about said horizontal axis rotation.

3. The device of claim 2 further comprising a gusset rotatable with said lifting member about said vertical axis of rotation and extending vertically above said lift arm, said pulley and rope means including a pulley on said lift arm and a pulley on said gusset, rope extending around said pulleys for selectively pulling together said lift arm and said gusset thereby pivoting said lifting member about said horizontal axis of rotation and selectively moving said lifting member first end region vertically up and down.

4. The device of claim 3, further comprising a pulley on said lifting member first end region, said rope further extending over said lifting member first end region pulley for attaching to and lifting objects.

The device of claim 4 further comprising a winch rotatable with said lifting member about said vertical axis of rotation, said winch selectively retracting and extending said rope, whereby said lifting member is selectively pivoted about said horizontal axis of rotation and objects may be lifted by said rope and lifting member.

6. The device of claim 5 further comprising a pivot member adapted to be mounted to the vehicle and be rotatable about said vertical axis of rotation, said lifting member being pivotally attached to said pivot member so as to be rotatable about said horizontal axis of rotation and wherein said gusset and said winch are mounted on said pivot member and are rotatable therewith.

7. The device of claim 6, further comprising a restriction mechanism for selectively restricting movement of said rope over said pulley located on said gusset.

8. The device of claim 3 further comprising a winch rotatable with said lifting member about said vertical axis of rotation, said winch selectively retracting and extending said rope, whereby said lifting member is selectively pivoted about said horizontal axis of rotation.

9. The device of claim 8 further comprising a restriction mechanism for selectively restricting movement of said rope over said pulley located on said gusset. S.

10. The device of claim 1 comprising a pivot member adapted to be mounted to the vehicle and to be rotatable about said vertical axis of rotation, said lifting member 0 being pivotally attached to said pivot member at a location between a first end defined by the first end region of the lifting member and a second end defined by the said second end region of the lifting member for rotating about said horizontal 0. axis thereat, said pulley and rope means extending between said pivot member and said lifting member second end. *o p

11. The device of claim 10 wherein said pulley and rope means includes a pulley on said pivot member and a pulley on said lifting member second end and rope extending therearound for selectively pulling together said lifting member second end and said pivot member and thereby rotating said lifting member about said horizontal axis of rotation and selectively moving said lifting member first end region vertically up and down.

12. The device of claim 11 further comprising a pulley on said lifting member first end, said rope further extending over said lifting member first end pulley for attaching to and lifting objects.

13. The device of claim 12 further comprising a winch on said pivot member and being rotatable therewith, said winch selectively retracting and extending said rope, whereby said lifting member is pivoted about said horizontal axis of rotation and objects may be lifted by said rope and lifting member.

14. The device of claim 13 further comprising a restriction mechanism for selectively restricting movement of said rope over said pulley on said lifting member second end.

15. The device of claim 11 further comprising a winch on said pivot member and being rotatable therewith, said winch selectively retracting and extending said rope, whereby said lifting member is pivoted about said horizontal axis of rotation and objects may be lifted by said rope and lifting member.

16. A roll bar and crane device comprising a first leg member and a second leg member which are attachable at opposite sides respectively defined by a vehicle; an elongate lifting member defining a first and a second end region, said first end region being releasably attached to the first leg member, and the second end 0 region being pivotally mounted to the second leg member to selectively pivot about both a vertical axis of rotation and a horizontal axis of rotation, the arrangement being such that the device is operable as a crane when the first end region is detached from the first leg member allowing the lifting member to pivot about the vertical and horizontal axis of rotation, and the device operating as a roll bar when the first end region is attached to the first leg member in use causing the lifting member to extend transversely across the vehicle from one leg member to the other; and, an elongate flexible member such as a rope mounted to the device to be extendable and retractable along the lifting member to pull objects to the second end region.

17. The device of claim 16 including pulley and rope means for selectively pivoting the lifting member first end region about the horizontal axis of rotation and selectively moving said lifting member first end region vertically up and down.

18. The device ofclaim 17 further comprising a lift arm affixed to said lifting member, said pulley and rope means applying a force on said lift arm for selectively pivoting said lifting member about said horizontal axis of rotation.

19. The device of claim 18 further comprising a gusset rotatable with said lifting member about said vertical axis ofrotation and extending vertically above said lift arm, said pulley and rope means including a pulley on said lift arm and a pulley on said gusset, said rope extending around said pulleys for selectively pulling together said lift arm and said gusset thereby pivoting said lifing member about said horizontal axis of rotation and selectively moving said lifting member first end region vertically up and down. The device of claim 19 further comprising a pivot member adapted to be mounted to the second leg member and to be rotatable about said vertical axis of rotation, said lifting member being pivotally attached to said pivot member at a location between a first end defined by the first end region of the lifting member and a second end defined by the second end region of the lifting member for rotating about said horizontal axis thereat, said pulley and rope means extending between said pivot member and said lifting member second end. S**