CA3162286A1

CA3162286A1 - In-vehicle tabular lifter for mobile repairs

Info

Publication number: CA3162286A1
Application number: CA3162286A
Authority: CA
Inventors: Gavin Duong
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2022-06-09
Filing date: 2022-06-09
Publication date: 2023-12-09

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a method and apparatus of a small engine machine lifter that is fitted inside a service vehicle's interior wall for conveniently repairing small engine machines or tools at the client's location. The lifter comprises: a lift carriage secured to a lifter mast; a plate and anchor that tilt along a sagittal plane with a pin switch or lever with gears; a spring-loaded pin or screw to keep the lifter secured in place; an electrically-powered winch with a steel rope and hook to lift or drop the lifter. Other embodiments can include: the lifter tilting along a frontal plane; an access hole for the plate to repair a machine's underside. The lifter raises the machine to a desired height for repairs. This lifter can improve convenience for the user during on-spot repairs, increase space utilization, increase stability, increased flexibility in repair work, and increased adaptability to aversive environments.

Description

UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
NON-PROVISIONAL UTILIYT PATENT
IN-VEHICLE TABULAR LIFTER FOR MOBILE REPAIRS
Gavin Bau Tran Duong 12715 Warden Ave Stouffville Ontario Canada L4A4L1 Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
63233395 filed on August 16, 2021.
FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure is in the field of mechanical engineering, small engine machine repair, mechanical lifts, and especially, a small engine machine tabular lifter embedded inside a service vehicle for the purpose of repairing small engine machines like snowblowers, lawnmowers, and tractors at client's location under all weather conditions.
BACKGROUND

[0002] Lawnmowers and snow blowers are examples of machines with small internal combustion engines used at home or commercially. When they require maintenance or repair work, e.g., oil changes, tire/part repairs or replacement, washing, blade changes, etc., such machines may be too heavy and/or large to be conveniently transported to a repair shop. Therefore, a means to repair those machines at the client's location (on-site repairs) is required. Hereinafter, the term 'on-site repairs' is interchangeable with 'on-spot repairs' and 'mobile repairs'.

[0003] Normal jacks may be used for portable or at-home repairs. However, they are less useful for repairing smaller lawnmowers and snow blowers since they cannot raise the machine high enough to access the engine from the underside. In the case of two-wheeled snow blowers, car jacks simply cannot be properly placed to lift the entire machine.

[0004] A lift is more suitable for this purpose; however, lifts are usually larger and are either stationary (e.g., car lift) or not designed to travel long distances (i.e., forklift).
One exception is a lift table, which is a device that employs a scissors mechanism to raise or lower goods or people;
however, it still requires an individual to initially lift the lawnmower or a different machine onto the table for repairs. Hereinafter, the term 'lift' is interchangeable with 'lifter'; the term 'user' explicitly refers to an operator of the lifter and trained mechanic technician who repairs a small engine machine.

[0005] In summary, there is a lack of lifts that can be ideally used for repairing machines at a customer's location. Existing tools or machines for on-site repairs also face several other challenges that make it less ideal for fixing machines with small engines: (1) typical on-site repairs are done outdoors, so the user is at the mercy of certain environmental conditions, mainly bad weather conditions (e.g., rain) and temperature (e.g., extreme heat). (2) tabular lifters installation and operation take up a large footprint and Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 a big deal. In other words, they take up more space within a storage container, such as the rear cargo compartment of a vehicle like a tailgate of a van. (3) existing tabular lifts have no access to the engine from underneath. This limits the repair work to a machine's top or side areas;
(4) the flexibility in repair work may be limited in less ideal conditions. For example, existing lifters cannot level a machine to be repaired if the service vehicle is on an angle or slope. (5) the user may require a non-disruptive (free from external interruptions), quiet (free from loud noises like voices or cars), or private (free from spectators) work environment for on-site repairs.

[0006] Some lifters operate with a pulley mechanism via a winch or hoist with a steel rope or chain.
Although they are considered interchangeable, those skilled in the art will find it obvious that there are key differences between the two. Mainly, a winch is used to pull objects horizontally, while a hoist is used to lift objects vertically. One factor in this difference is their braking system: a winch uses a dynamic braking system to allow the rope to spool in order to allow its gear system to hold a load. For example, if a car is towing a boat, the steel rope can move sideways to keep hold of the boat as the car moves. However, this makes most winches unstable for lifting; a hoist uses a mechanical braking system, which physically locks the rope to support the dead weight. Most pulley lifters would use a hoist;
however, there are existing winches that can double as a hoist with the use of the mechanical braking system. In any case, there is also a risk of pulley lifts swinging or rotating freely if not stabilized in place.
This puts the lifted object at risk of falling. Oftentimes, anything lifted by a pulley would need to be hand-guided. Some existing lifts have a screw or pin for extra stability;
however, they must be manually inserted into a slot, which can be hard to pinpoint when the slot is not visible. This results in wasted time.

[0007] The present disclosure provides a new mobile lifter design in the form of an in-vehicle small engine machine tabular lifter inside a service vehicle for repairing small engine machines/tools at the client's location. The tabular lifter device improves upon the following aspects: (1) improved convenience; (2) improved space allocation; (3) increased stability; (4) increased number of services; (5) increased adaptability to different weather and environments conditions.
SUMMARY

[0008] The present disclosure describes a mobile tabular lifter embedded inside a service vehicle for repairing small engine machines or other tools under all environmental conditions at a client's location.
The purpose is to provide portable on-spot repair services, especially for relatively heavy small engine machines like lawnmowers, snow blowers, tractors, and light utility vehicles.
The present disclosure manifests as the following aspects: (1) a small footprint for installation and operation within a vehicle;
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 (2) customizable adjustment of table/plate at various angles along the sagittal and frontal planes; (3) lifter stability implements like a spring-loaded locking pin/screw-based locking pin and cylindrical member; (4) a retractable and adjustable underside access hole; (5) increased flexibility in repair options; (6) protection or shelter for repairs in any area regardless of distractions such as bad weather, advert temperature, noise, and etc.

[0009] Generally, the embedded tabular lifter comprises only components that have a small footprint: a cylindrical lifter mast aligns against an interior wall of the service vehicle, which takes up a minimal amount of interior space; a very low-profile plate or table, which rests on the floor of the vehicle's interior space. This also takes up a minimal amount of useable space if the lift is not being used; the table or plate can also be lifted and rotated up to fold against the lifter mast. As a result, the floor space is freed up for other uses; a carriage and an anchor are nearly flushed to the interior wall. The carriage is connected to the cylindrical member along the lifter mast. The anchor is connected to the carriage via a joint. A winch raises the entire lifter via a steel rope and hook. A wired remote is used to control the lifter's operations.

[0010] Two main embodiments are present in the present disclosure, which are defined by how they implement their plate adjustment and locking mechanism: (1) the first main embodiment, also called the preferred embodiment, has a spring-loaded locking pin that automatically goes into a pin slot on the lifter mast. Pin switches are attached to side joints connecting the anchor and carriage, allowing the table/plate and anchor to tilt at a vertical angle along the sagittal plane;
(2) the second main embodiment, also called the first alternative embodiment, has a lever on the side of the lifter that adjusts gears inside a modified carriage and anchor to adjust the lifter's angle along the sagittal plane. The first alternative embodiment has a screw-based pin that is inserted through the carriage into a continuous locking groove on the lifter mast.

[0011] An additional variant of the preferred embodiment, also called the second alternative embodiment, allows the lifter to pivot diagonally at an angle along a frontal plane; it does so along a backplane that is secured to the lifter mast. The lifter can be held in a swung position by inserting an anchor pin through the lifter's anchor and into one of the pin slots on the backplane.

[0012] The lifter in the present disclosure is a type of pulley lift. The lifter has implements for increased stability, which is achieved with the following: a hollow cylindrical member welded to the lifter, which moves along the vertical height of the cylindrical lifter mast; the spring-loaded locking pin or screw-based pin mentioned above, which is fitted into a discrete slot or continuous locking groove on the lifter Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 mast depending on the embodiment. In the second alternative embodiment, an additional anchor pin is used to secure the lifter when rotated at an angle along a frontal plane.

[0013] In an alternative version of either of the main embodiments, also known as the third alternative embodiment, the lifter plate has a repair access hole to allow the user to access the underside of a small engine machine. This access hole is protected by a sliding cover, which can be moved to open partially or completely; this makes the access hole adjustable.

[0014] The present disclosure allows for flexible repair options, which manifests in a variety of ways:(1) small engine machines of any size can be raised with the lifter: a whole snow blower or the front wheels or track of a tractor can be loaded onto the lifter; (2) the adjustable plate aspect allows for the lifter to be angled in a way that adapts to slopes or uneven surfaces so that the machine can be loaded onto the lifter at a relatively flat level.

[0015] The present disclosure also provides a protective shelter for the user and a small engine machine to form a private environment for repairing work. This shelter can be used for protection against a variety of interferences. The user can now repair a machine under adverse natural environmental conditions like bad weather (e.g., heavy rain, snow, or wind) and extreme temperatures (heat or cold). Additionally, the user can do repairs in a private and quiet environment, away from spectators and external noises (e.g., cars, voices, etc.).

[0016] By using this lifter device, the overall experience of performing on-site repairs and maintenance for small engine machines is improved greatly by achieving the following: (1) improved convenience for the customer since the repair is done at their location. Additionally, it improves convenience for the user repairing the machine; (2) increased service vehicle space utilization thanks to the minimal footprint and foldaway features (i.e., adjustable plate); (3) increase stability of the lifter thanks to the stability implements (i.e., locking pins and cylindrical member); (4) increased number of services available for repairing small engine machines. This is thanks to the general plate design and the repair access hole; (5) increase adaptability to different environments due to angling of the plate and placement of repairs inside the vehicle to protect from weather, noise, and other disruptors. This is thanks to the flexible repair options and protective shelter aspects.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this application, illustrate embodiment(s) of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principle of the invention.
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 For simplicity and clarity, the figures of the present disclosure illustrate a general manner of construction of various embodiments. Descriptions and details of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the discussion of the present disclosure's described embodiments. It should be understood that the elements of the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. Some elements' dimensions may be exaggerated relative to other elements for enhancing the understanding of described embodiments. In the drawings:

[0018] FIG. 1 illustrates side and front views showing a preferred embodiment of an in-vehicle tabular lifter in its unloaded position.

[0019] FIG. 2 illustrates side views of a first alternative embodiment of the in-vehicle tabular lifter tilting to a level position when the vehicle is situated on a slope.

[0020] FIG. 3 illustrates perspective and front views of a second alternative embodiment of the in-vehicle tabular lifter, where its carriage, anchor, and plate are tilted diagonally at an angle along the frontal plane.

[0021] FIG. 4 illustrates side views of the preferred embodiment of the in-vehicle tabular lifter from its lowered position to a raised position, then finally to a position with its plate fully folded.

[0022] FIG. 5 illustrates perspective views of the tabular lifter's spring-loaded locking pin from the preferred embodiment, as well as a side view of the screw-based pin from the tabular lifter's first alternative embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 6 illustrates side views relating to how an in-vehicle tabular lifter of the preferred embodiment raises a lawnmower and tractor machine for on-site repairs.

[0024] FIG. 7 illustrates top and side views of a third alternative embodiment of the in-vehicle tabular lifter with a retractable underside repair access hole on the plate as well as showing how a user can repair a machine from its underside.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The present disclosure describes a mobile tabular lifter embedded inside a service vehicle for repairing small engine machines or tools under all environmental conditions at the client's location.
Various examples of the present invention are shown in the figures. However, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiments. In the following description, specific details are mentioned to give a complete understanding of the present disclosure. However, it may likely be evident to a Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 person of ordinary skill in the art; hence, the present disclosure may be applied without mentioning these specific details. The present disclosure is represented as few embodiments; however, the disclosure is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments illustrated by the figures or description below.

[0026] The language employed herein only describes particular embodiments;
however, it is not limited to the disclosure's specific embodiments. The terms "they", "he/she", or "he or she" are used interchangeably because "they", "them", or "their" are considered singular gender-neutral pronouns. The terms "comprise" and/or "comprising" in this specification are intended to specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and/or components; however, they do not exclude the presence or addition of other features, steps, operations, elements, components, or groups.

[0027] Unless otherwise defined, all terminology used herein, including technical and scientific terms, have the same definition as what is commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art, typically to whom this disclosure belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having the same meaning as defined in the context of the relevant art and the present disclosure. Such terms should not be construed in an overly strict sense unless explicitly described herein. It should be understood that multiple techniques and steps are disclosed in the description, each with its own benefit. Each technique or step can also be utilized in conjunction with a single, multiple, or all of the other disclosed techniques or steps. For brevity, the description will avoid repeating each possible combination of the steps unnecessarily. Nonetheless, it should be understood that such combinations are within the scope of the disclosure. Reference will now be made in detail to some embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying figures.

[0028] The tabular lifter comprises a cylindrical lifter mast embedded against the interior wall of a service vehicle and kept in place with a perpendicular support beam secured to the vehicle frame. The lifter table itself comprises multiple components: a lift carriage that moves up and down the lifter mast via a cylindrical member securely welded to the carriage; a plate that acts as a platform for holding a small engine machine in place. Hereinafter, the term 'plate' is interchangeable with `table'; an anchor that is welded to the plate. The anchor pivots with joints around the carriage or with lever-activated gears to adjust the tilting angle of the lifter, which depend on the embodiment of the present disclosure: a preferred embodiment uses pin switches attached to joints on the side of the lifter to tilt the lifter anchor and plate/table; a first alternative embodiment uses a lever on the side of the lifter to activate gears inside modified versions of the carriage and anchor to tilt the lifter anchor and plate/table.
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09

[0029] The present disclosure uses an electrical winch secured to the support beam. The winch uses a spooling steel rope with a hook that attaches to the top of the lift carriage.
The steel rope winds in or out to raise or lower the lifter, respectively. The winch is connected to a wired remote hanging from the ceiling of the vehicle's interior space. A push of a button on the remote causes the winch to activate, raising or lowering the tabular lifter.

[0030] The lifter is secured to the cylindrical lifter mast at any position, the means of which vary depending on the embodiment: the preferred embodiment uses a spring-loaded locking pin that automatically inserts into a lifter mast pin slot, while the first alternative embodiment uses a screw-based pin inserted into a continuous lifter mast locking groove.

[0031] The tabular lifter has a few notable aspects. The first aspect is the lifter's small footprint for installation and operation within a service vehicle. None of the components take up a lot of space; they are generally aligned against an interior wall of the service vehicle, mainly the wall closest to the vehicle's passenger compartment. The cylindrical lifter mast is embedded within a grooved space on the interior wall of the service vehicle. The perpendicular support beam above is also generally in line with the interior wall, with a front portion sticking out from the top of said wall.
The plate does stick out from the interior wall; however, it has a low profile, resting on the floor of the vehicle's interior space.
Furthermore, the plate only takes up the middle portion of the vehicle's interior flooring. This leaves space on the side along the internal side walls of the vehicle.

[0032] In the second aspect of the present disclosure, there is customizable adjustment of the lifter plate's tilting angle. More specifically, the plate and anchor can tilt at any angle along the sagittal plane.
Because the anchor is securely welded to the plate, plate movement in this regard also implies anchor movement. The lifter plate can tilt upward at a vertical angle along the sagittal plane, folding into itself to align with the rest of the lifter and the vehicle's internal wall. The lifter plate can be positioned along any angle between the interior vehicle floor and the perpendicular interior wall. The lifter plate can also position itself at a downward angle along the sagittal plane; the lift carriage and cylindrical member are raised at one end, and the loading end (away from the interior wall) is pointing down toward the floor of the vehicle's interior space. The way this is achieved depends on the embodiment: in the preferred embodiment, the plate and the secured anchor pivot around joints on the sides of the lifter. Pin switches attached to the joints pivot upward to allow this tilt and pivot downward to lock the lifter at the tilted position. The tilting movement in the preferred embodiment is done manually;
in the first alternative embodiment, a lever is located on one side of the lifter. The lever can be moved to one of two lever slots: an inward lever slot to lock the lifter plate and anchor in position and an outward lever slot for Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 tilting the lifter plate and anchor. Moving the lever to the outward lever slot activates gears in the anchor and carriage that allow for the tilting motion of the lifter plate. The plate adjustment in this embodiment can be made automatically or manually.

[0033] The second aspect also allows the lifter plate to pivot at an angle along the frontal plane, which manifests a second alternative embodiment. More specifically, the second alternative embodiment is a variant of the preferred embodiment. Here, the lifter plate, anchor, and carriage can rotate at any angle along the frontal plane. The components are mounted on a backplane; this backplane takes the form of a rectangular board secured onto the cylindrical lifter mast. The hook of the winch is attached to the top portion of the backplane. To secure the lifter at such angles, the backplane has four backplane slots:
three lower backplane slots to adjust the frontal angle of the lifter, respectively known as the first, second, and third backplane slots. When positioned in the desired spot, an anchor pin is inserted through the anchor into one of the three lower backplane slots; one upper backplane slot, respectively known as the fourth backplane slot, for the insertion of the lifter's spring-loaded locking pin. The lifter in this embodiment rotates along the spring-loaded pin inside the fourth backplane, so the anchor pin needs to be inserted into one of the other three backplane slots prior to removing the spring-loaded pin for vertical movement along the lifter mast. [0034] In the third aspect of the present disclosure, stability implements are used for the tabular lifter. The tabular lifter ¨ specifically, its carriage ¨ is securely welded onto a hollow cylindrical member. The member is fitted onto the lifter mast, moving with the rest of the lifter along the lifter mast's vertical height. Generally, the cylindrical member keeps the lifter in place as it is raised or lowered. The aspect also relates to the locking pins that hold the lifter at certain vertical positions. As noted before, this can manifest differently depending on the embodiment: the preferred embodiment uses a spring-loaded pin that inserts into discrete pin slots on the lifter mast, also known as lifter mast pin slots. Each time the lifter moves, the user pulls an external handle of the locking pin to free it from its current lifter mast pin slot. The associated spring is held in a loaded position. Upon aligning with a new (upper or lower) lifter mast pin slot, the spring is released, and the pin is automatically inserted into the new lifter mast pin slot; the first alternative embodiment uses a screw-based pin that is inserted at the base of the carriage and screwed into a continuous locking groove on the lifter mast. The screw-based pin is inserted manually when the lifter is in the desired position; the second alternative embodiment incorporates the spring-loaded locking pin, as well as an additional anchor pin that is inserted into one of three backplane slots upon adjusting its frontal angle. Ultimately, these stability implements help keep the lifter steady when it moves up or down like a pulley.
[0035] In the fourth aspect of the present disclosure, an adjustable underside repair access hole is present in a third alternative embodiment. This access hole is a rectangular hole in the middle of a Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 modified plate. This modified plate holds the wheels of a small engine machine. Hereinafter, the term 'wheels' is interchangeable with 'track' when referring to the front pair of wheels, back pair of wheels, or both. An access hole cover protects the sliding hole, which allows a machine to load onto the lifter without the risk of a wheel falling into the access hole. The cover is primarily accessed from underneath the plate of the lifter. The access hole cover slides outward from the loading end of the plate to partially or completely open the access hole for repairing a machine's underside. In other words, adjustments to the open portion of the access hole can be made.
[0036] In the fifth aspect of the present disclosure, there is increased flexibility in repair options. This manifests in two ways: (1) the lifter can accommodate small engine machines of various sizes. It can lift an entire lawnmower or snowblower or a track of a tractor or utility vehicle;
(2) the lifter can be angled in such a way so that the machine can be loaded and positioned onto the lifter at a relatively level position, particularly when the service vehicle is situated on a sloped or uneven surface. This can be done using the second aspect of the present disclosure, where the lifter can be angled along a sagittal plane or frontal plane.
[0037] In the sixth aspect of the present disclosure, a protective shelter is formed within the service vehicle containing the lifter. Since the repair is done inside the vehicle, the user and the small engine machine are protected from a myriad of environmental conditions that could hinder the repair process.
The most obvious example of protection would be from poor weather conditions such as rain, snow, or strong winds. The present disclosure also protects against extreme temperatures. For example, if it is too hot outside, the user may get heatstroke, and the small machine will be too hot to touch. The protective shelter can provide air conditioning for better working conditions. The protective shelter can also free the user from external distractions that may hinder the repair work. The service vehicle can provide privacy to shield the user from unwanted spectators or external noises such as traffic or people's voices.
[0038] The lifter addresses problems previously found in existing lifts and on-spot repair machines.
First, the device improves convenience for both the customer and the user.
Because the lifter is inside the service vehicle, it can be brought to a customer's location at any time.
The customer does not have to bring a small engine machine to the shop, effectively saving time. The improved convenience also eases the entire operational process. First, the user presses a button on the wired remote to lower or raise the lifter. The user then moves one end of the small engine machine onto the plate of the lifter. In another sense, the convenience is improved for the user since they can also adjust the lifter to a vertical level that is comfortable for them using these aspects of the present disclosure. Overall, there is no need to bring the machine to a shop or even a different location for on-spot repairs.
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 [0039] Second, there is increased space utilization within the accommodating vehicle. In the first aspect of the present disclosure, the lifter has a small footprint. All components of the lifter are practically aligned with an interior wall of a service vehicle, particularly the wall closest to the vehicle's passenger compartment. Furthermore, the column practically lines up with the interior wall rather than protrude from it. The plate has a very low profile along the floor of the vehicle's interior space. The plate does not take up the entire width of the floor within the vehicle's interior space. This leaves some extra space for the user to move around to access the sides of a small engine machine. Additional space can also be saved thanks to the second aspect of the present disclosure. The adjustment of the plate along the sagittal plane allows for extra floor space inside the vehicle. The space saved in this regard can be acquired regardless of whether the plate is angled upward or downward;
however, this increased space is more obvious when the plate is angled upward to be in line with the rest of the lifter and the interior wall. Improving the space utilization also improves the convenience of repair since additional tools can be stored inside the service vehicle for repairs equivalent to that of a typical brick-and-mortar setup.
[0040] Third, the stability of the lifter is improved, primarily thanks to the third aspect involving stability implements. As noted before, winches are generally not suited for lifting and support the dead weight of objects such as small engine machines. While some winches have a mechanic braking system, lifting applications are better suited for hoists. Therefore, the selection of devices used for pulling the lifter is normally more limited. Using the third aspect, the cylindrical member is practically secured onto both the lifter and the lifter mast. In other words, the cylindrical member holds the lifter in place when the lifter is stationary or moving along the lifter mast. The locking pins also stabilize the lifter, holding it in place when they are inserted into discrete pin slots or a continuous locking groove on the lifter mast (depending on the embodiment). If the lifter needs to pivot in a diagonal direction at an angle along a frontal plane, an anchor pin in the second alternative embodiment is inserted into a backplane pin slot to stabilize the lifter. Therefore, the stability implements help the lifter support the dead weight, and the steel rope of the winch merely moves the lifter vertically. The lifter and the machine on it would not swing around or rotate when being lifted up, so the steel rope does not spool in a different direction. In other words, a standard winch can be used because the entire lifter is essentially fixed onto the lifter mast, and therefore, does not have to entirely support the weight of the lifter and a small engine machine. Using the stability implements also improves convenience for the user. In the preferred embodiment, the spring-loaded pin automatically locks into the intended slot without the need to pinpoint the slot's location. In the first alternative embodiment, improved convenience is also present Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 since the groove on the lifter mast is one continuous slot. Therefore, the user just needs to insert the screw-base pin through the slot at the bottom of the carriage.
[0041] Fourth, it increases the number of services available for repairing small engine machines. The plate itself generally has a length that can accommodate both tracks of a smaller machine or one track (typically the front) of a larger tractor machine. Thanks to the fourth aspect involving the underside repair access hole. Because of this access hole, a user can access the underside of a small engine machine for even more repair options. For example, a typical lawnmower with a top engine can be repaired from the top. Thanks to the repair access hole, the user can, for example, do an oil change or blade change for a lawnmower. Furthermore, the cover can slide out from the plate at any length to provide partial or total access to the machine's underside, depending on the type of repair required.
[0042] Fifth, there is increased adaptability for repair work under less-than-ideal environments and conditions. This is mainly thanks to the second and sixth aspects. With the second aspect, the lifter plate can tilt at any vertical angle along a sagittal or any angle along a frontal plane. If a service vehicle is parked on a sloped or uneven surface, the lifter plate can tilt to allow a small engine machine to be loaded at a relatively level position. For example, the service vehicle is on a downward hill. Thanks to the second aspect, the lifter can be raised to a position where the plate can tilt at a downward angle. As a result, the small engine machine can go into the service vehicle, load onto the lifter plate, and be raised for repairs without the risk of the machine falling off. In the second alternative embodiment, the same concept can be applied if the uneven surface is along the frontal plane. The lifter can pivot and be secured on the backplane via an inserted anchor pin.
[0043] Thanks to the sixth aspect relating to protective shelter, the user can do on-spot repairs at a given location regardless of the environmental conditions or surroundings. The protection provided can be seen in a myriad of repair scenarios. For example, in one scenario, the protective shelter provided by the service vehicle can protect from poor weather conditions like rain, snow, or strong winds. In another example, the user wants to repair something on a hot or cold day. In this case, the user can do repair work inside the service vehicle with the air conditioning or heat turned on. In another example, the user wants to privately repair a machine without any distractions. The service vehicle itself shields the user and machine from prying eyes. The service vehicle can also serve as a soundproof barrier from surrounding noises such as voices, traffic, or construction work.
[0044] FIG. 1 illustrates side and front views showing a preferred embodiment of an in-vehicle tabular lifter in its unloaded position. Sub-figure (a) illustrates a side view of the in-vehicle lifter (100) in its unloaded position. The lifter (100) is situated along an interior wall of a service vehicle (102). Looking at Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 the sub- figure, the rear end of the vehicle (102) is on the left side, and the lifter is on the right side. A
lifter mast (104) is situated within the wall of the vehicle's (102) interior, particularly the wall closest to the vehicle's (102) passenger compartment. The top edge of the associated interior wall of the vehicle (102), also considered the ceiling, is below a support beam (106) that is secured to the vehicle (102) frame. A winch (108) is installed in front of the support beam (106). A steel rope (110) winds in or out whenever the winch (108) is activated. The lower end of the steel rope (110) has a hook (112); the rope (110) and hook (112) are the components that raise or lower the lifter (100).
The hook (112) latches onto the upper section of a lift carriage (114).
[0045] The carriage (114) is securely welded to a hollow cylindrical member (116). The cylindrical member (116) is slidably-secured onto the lifter mast (104) behind the carriage (114), moving along the vertical height of the lifter mast (104) as the lifter (100) is raised or lowered. The front side of the upper section of the carriage (114) has a spring-loaded locking pin (118) that protrudes away from the rest of the lifter (100). An anchor (120) is secured to the carriage (114) and can tilt along the component with joints (128). One joint (128) is located on each side of the anchor (120). The plate (122) is situated along the floor of the vehicle's (102) interior space and is securely welded to the anchor (120).
[0046] A remote (126) controls the lifter's (100) movements along the lifter mast (104) via a power cable (124) connected to the winch (108). When a button on the remote (126) is pressed, it triggers the winch (108) to wind the steel rope (110) in or out, moving the attached lifter (100) up or down as a result.
[0047] The sub-figure illustrates how the increased space utilization inside the vehicle (102) is achieved thanks to the small footprint aspect. None of the components take up a significant amount of space. All components are practically aligned against the innermost wall of the vehicle's (102) interior space. The lifter mast (104) is installed behind the interior wall of the vehicle (102).
More specifically, there is a groove in the middle of the interior wall where the lifter mast (104) is held in place; this will be shown in the next sub-figure. The support beam (106) is above the top section of the vehicle's (102) interior wall, aligned with the ceiling. The plate's (122) length takes up a bit of space along the length of the vehicle (102), but it is mainly on the floor of the vehicle's (102) interior space.
The power cable (124) attached to the remote is aligned with the ceiling of the vehicle's (102) interior space, dropping slightly so the user can access the remote (126). [0048] The hook (112) shown in the sub-figure is a general representation. It is obvious to those skilled in the art that the hook (112) would include a latch so that the hook (112) securely attaches to the carriage (114) of the lifter (100).
[0049] Sub-figure (b) illustrates a front view of the in-vehicle lifter (100) in its unloaded position. All descriptions of the lifter (100) and its components in the previous sub-figure also apply here. The front Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 view of the lifter (100) is shown from the rear of the vehicle (102). In this sub-figure, most of the steel rope (110) is wound within the center portion of the winch (108). The left side of the winch (108) has an electric motor (130) that triggers the winch (108) to wind or unwind the steel rope (110), moving the lifter (100) in the process. The motor (130) activates through its connection with the power cable (124).
[0050] In this sub-figure, increased space utilization is achieved with the small footprint aspect since the lifter mast (104) is situated within a groove opening on the interior wall of the vehicle (102). The small footprint is also demonstrated with the size of the lifter (100) shown in comparison to the rest of the vehicle's (102) interior space. The lifter (100) is shown mainly with its width limited to the middle of the vehicle's (102) interior space. As a result, there is still floor space within the vehicle (102) for the user to move around in order to repair the sides of a small engine machine. This extra space may be used to store additional tools and even a workbench in an alternative embodiment. In doing so, the present disclosure can achieve an increased number of services provided for mobile repairs since the user can provide repair services equivalent to that of a brick-and-mortar shop.
[0051] The winch (108) in the sub-figures is a general representation, with certain alterations being possible in different embodiments. In one embodiment, the winch (108) may have a clutch that determines the direction of the lifter's (100) movement. In another embodiment, the motor (130) can be protected by a housing cover. In yet another embodiment, the winch (108) may be handled manually with a winch handle. This embodiment would eliminate the need for a remote (126) and power cable (124).
[0052] The winch (108) is one means of moving the lifter (100) up or down. As noted before, those skilled in the art may find it obvious that standard winches (108) are not normally suited for lifting applications. One main reason for this is that most winches (108) use a dynamic braking system, which is suitable for moving the steel rope (110) around to horizontally pull an object but not for lifting dead weight. A hoist or a winch with a mechanical braking system would be needed to properly lift and support an object (i.e., small engine machine); the steel rope (110) of such a device locks in place rather than spool in a different direction. Thanks to the aspect relating to stability implements, however, the cylindrical member (116) and locking pin (118) hold the lifter (100) in place, preventing it from swinging around when supporting a machine. In another sense, the stability implements help reduce the weight that the lifter (100) needs to support. Thanks to this, a standard winch (108) can be used because the winch is merely guiding the lifter (100) rather than holding the weight on the lifter (100). Furthermore, the steel rope (110) does not spool in a different direction during lifting.
In an alternative embodiment, Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 an actual hoist or winch with mechanical braking can be used in place of the standard winch (108). As they are designed to support dead weight, the lifter's (100) stability may be further increased.
[0053] In another alternative embodiment, a hydraulic system may be used to move the lifter (100).
This may incorporate the use of hydraulic cylinders and rods to influence the movement of the lifter (100). More specifically, hydraulic oil would be distributed to the cylinders to extend or retract the rods and cause the lifter (100) to move. Hydraulic systems generate a large amount of pressure. This makes it better suited for heavy-duty applications like lifting heavy objects. However, the use of a hydraulic system may affect the small footprint aspect since more components need to be set up within the vehicle's (102) interior space. Furthermore, any spillage of hydraulic oil may be considered a safety hazard for the user.
[0054] The remote (126) achieves improved convenience since the user only needs to press a button to activate the winch (108) and move the lifter (100). The remote (126) in this figure is a general representation. In this figure, the remote (126) is illustrated with a single button. An additional button may be used to define the direction of the lifter's (100) movement. Another additional button may be used to lock the lifter (100) in place, so the user would not be able to activate the lifter's (100) movement even when pressing the activation buttons. It should also be noted that the remote (126) in the present disclosure is wired with a power cable (126) connected to the motor (130) of the winch (108). Those skilled in the art may find it obvious that the power source of the lifter (100) is linked to an electric source like a car battery. In another embodiment, the remote (126) is wireless. The remote (126) would activate the winch (108) to move the lifter (100) via a terminal or sensor.
[0055] FIG. 2 illustrates side views of a first alternative embodiment of the in-vehicle tabular lifter tilting to a level position when the vehicle is situated on a slope. Sub-figure (a) illustrates a first alternative embodiment of the in-vehicle tabular lifter (200) tilting to a level position when the vehicle (102) is situated on a downward slope. All general descriptions of the lifter mast (104), cylindrical member (116), winch (108), steel rope (110), hook (112), and plate (122) in FIG. 1 also apply here. The alternative in-vehicle tabular lifter (200) is located inside a service vehicle (102) that is situated on a downward slope. The alternative lifter (200) has a modified alternative carriage (202) and alternative anchor (204) with bottom portions that appear to somewhat protrude from the interior wall of the vehicle (102). A screw-based pin (206) is present at the base of the alternative carriage (204). A lever (208) is located on one side of the alternative anchor (204). This lever (208) can be moved to one of two slots: an outward lever slot (210) and an inward lever slot (212).
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 [0056] In this sub-figure, the alternative lifter (200) starts in an initial position that is lined up with the base of the alternative carriage (202). Therefore, this initial lifter position can be termed the initial carriage position (214). It is also noted that the plate (122) starts in an initial plate position (220) near the floor of the vehicle's (102) interior space. At this time, the winch (108) is activated to wind in the steel rope (110) with its hook (112) attached to the top portion of the alternative carriage (202). The alternative carriage (202) and cylindrical member (116) move along the lifter mast (104) within the interior wall of the vehicle (102). The alternative carriage (202) and cylindrical member (116) move upward with a vertical carriage movement (216) to a raised carriage position (218). These components (116, 202) can also move downward to the initial carriage position (214) with a vertical carriage movement (216).
[0057] The lever (208) is situated in the outward lever slot (210). Because of this, the plate (122) and the alternative anchor (204) tilt at a downward angle when the alternative carriage (202) moves upward: the loading end of the plate (122) is touching the vehicle's (102) interior floor, while the ends of the plate (122) and alternative anchor (204) are raised up. As the plate (122) is securely welded to the alternative anchor (204), both components move simultaneously. From the initial plate position (220), the plate (122) and alternative anchor (204) tilt to an angled plate position (224) with a tilting plate movement (222). Because the vehicle (102) is on a downward slope, the plate (122) is at a level position to load a small engine machine. The plate (122) and alternative anchor (204) can also tilt back to the initial plate position (220) with a tilting plate movement (222).
[0058] The alternative lifter (200) in this sub-figure shows how increased adaptability can be achieved using the aspect relating to customizable tilting of the plate's (122) position along the sagittal plane. The tilting of the plate (122) and alternative anchor (204) at an angle along a sagittal plane means that on a sloped surface, like the one shown in this sub-figure, a small engine machine can still be moved into the service vehicle (102) and loaded onto the tilted plate (122) at a level position. As a result, there is a reduced risk of the machine falling during the alternative lifter's (200) operation. In a way, it improves convenience since the user does not have to move to a flat location or shop to do repair work.
[0059] The plate (122) and alternative anchor (204) in this sub-figure are shown to be angled downward. In another embodiment, the plate (122) and alternative anchor (204) can be positioned at an upward angle, with the loading end of the plate (122) pointing upward. This position may be used if the service vehicle (102) is situated on an upward sloped surface. The lever (208) would still need to be in the outward lever slot (210) to allow the movement of the alternative anchor (204) and plate (122) along the alternative carriage (202).
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 [0060] The screw-based pin (206) is one of the stability implements that secures the alternative in-vehicle tabular lifter (200) in place, particularly when it is stationary. It is manually inserted through the alternative carriage (202) into a continuous locking groove on the lifter mast (104); this will be further demonstrated in FIG. 5.
[0061] Sub-figure (b) illustrates a side view of the alternative tabular lifter's carriage (202), anchor (204), and plate (122) tilting downward. All descriptions of the alternative anchor (204), alternative carriage (202), plate (122), lever (208), and lever slots (210, 212) in the previous sub-figure also apply here. The lever (208) is pointing outward toward the loading end of the plate (122) due to its placement in the outward lever slot (210). As a result, two gears (226) move simultaneously, meshing against each other: one gear (226) in the alternative carriage (202) and another gear (226) in the alternative anchor (204). As the gears (226) mesh against each other, the plate (122) and alternative anchor (224) tilt at a downward angle. Once the plate (122) and alternative anchor (204) have tilted to the desired angle, the lever (208) is switched to the inward lever slot (212). This locks the gears (226) in place, preventing them from meshing against each other. As a result, the plate (122) and alternative anchor (204) are locked in place and cannot tilt any further. [0062] The gears (226) in the present disclosure are allocated to one side of the alternative anchor (204) and alternative carriage (202). In another embodiment, another lever (208) and set of gears (226) can be installed on the other side of the alternative anchor (204) and alternative carriage (202). A set of axles can be used to connect the upper and lower gears (226) of each side together so that they can move simultaneously as the alternative carriage (202) moves.
[0063] The gears (226) allow the plate (122) and alternative anchor (204) to automatically tilt as the alternative carriage (202) is raised. In another embodiment, this tilting motion can be manually adjusted.
For example, when the alternative carriage (202) of the alternative lifter (200) goes from the raised carriage position (218) to the initial carriage position (214), an object can be placed underneath the plate (122). In this scenario, the vehicle (102) is situated on an upward slope, so this object is placed under the loading end of the plate (122). As the alternative carriage (202) drops, the object pushes up on the plate (122), causing the plate (122) and the alternative anchor (204) to tilt at an upward angle.
[0064] FIG. 3 illustrates perspective and front views of a second alternative embodiment of the in-vehicle tabular lifter, where its carriage, anchor, and plate are tilted diagonally at an angle along the frontal plane. The second alternative embodiment is considered a variant of the preferred embodiment in FIG. 1, so the general description of the components in this figure is similar to that of FIG. 1. In this figure, the carriage (114), anchor (120), and plate (122) may be collectively described as 'tilting lifter components'. Because the aforementioned lifter components (114, 120, 122) appear to be swinging in Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 this figure, the term 'tilt' is interchangeable with 'swing' when describing this type of lifter adjustment in this figure. Sub- figure (a) illustrates a perspective view of the in-vehicle tabular lifter's second alternative embodiment, where its carriage (114), anchor (120), and plate (122) are tilted diagonally at an angle along the frontal plane. The lift carriage (114), anchor (120), and plate (122) all tilt diagonally at an angle along the frontal plane. These components (114, 120, 122) are supported by a backplane (302), which is secured against the lifter mast (104). Because the carriage (114) tilts along with the anchor (120) and plate (122), the hook (112) attaches to the lifter via a connection at the top of the backplane (302) to raise or lower the lifter.
[0065] Looking at the sub-figure, the carriage (114), anchor (120), and plate (122) are tilted to the left side. More specifically, the top of the carriage (114) is tilted to the upper right side, while the plate (122) appears to be positioned at the lower left side. This tilting motion is done along the position of the spring- loaded locking pin (118). The anchor (120) in this embodiment uses an anchor pin (304) that secures the aforementioned components (114, 120, 122) in place as they are tilted along the frontal plane. A first backplane slot (306) is revealed when the lifter tilts to the left.
[0066] The spring-loaded locking pin (118) in this sub-figure is shown with a right-angle handle, which allows the user to pull the locking pin (118) in order to move the lifter vertically along the lifter mast (104). The locking pin (118) is actually one single component. This will be further shown and explained in FIG. 5.
[0067] Sub-figure (b) illustrates a front view of the in-vehicle tabular lifter's second alternative embodiment, where its carriage (114), anchor (120), and plate (122) are tilted diagonally at an angle along the frontal plane. All descriptions of the components in sub-figure (a) also apply here. The backplane (302) is shown with multiple backplane slots (306, 308, 310, 312). Three lower backplane slots (306, 308, 310) are shown where the anchor pin (304) is inserted to support the tilting lifter components (114, 120, 122) when they are tilted at an angle along the frontal plane: a first backplane slot (306) is shown on the right for securing the tilting lifter components (114, 120, 122) when they are tilted to the right; a second backplane slot (308) is shown in the center for securing the tilting lifter components (114, 120, 122) in an upright position; a third backplane slot (310) is shown on the left for securing the tilting lifter components (114, 120, 122) when they are tilted to the left, as shown in the sub-figure. There is also a fourth backplane slot (312) above the second backplane slot (308). This slot allows the tilting lifter components (114, 120, 122) to tilt in any direction along the frontal plane when the spring-loaded pin (118) is inserted. In a sense, the swinging motion of the tilting lifter components (114, 120, 122) revolve around the spring-loaded pin (118) and the fourth backplane slot (312).
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 [0068] The sub-figure also shows how the tilting lifter components (114, 120, 122) swing to the left.
The tilting lifter components (114, 120, 122) initially start at an initial lifter position (314), marked at the bottom of the plate (122), as well as in the middle of the lifter mast (104).
The tilting lifter components (114, 120, 122) are initially upright with the anchor pin (304) into the second backplane slot (308). When the tilting lifter components (114, 120, 122) move, the anchor pin (304) is removed from the second backplane slot (308). The tilting lifter components (114, 120, 122) then swings to the diagonal lifter position (318) with a frontal swinging lifter movement (316). The anchor pin (304) is then inserted into the third backplane slot (310). The tilting lifter components (114, 120, 122) can also swing back to the initial lifter position (314) using the frontal swinging lifter movement (316).
[0069] The figure shows how increased adaptability can be achieved using a variation of the aspect relating to customizable plate (122) positioning. A sloped or uneven surface can also affect the horizontal side of the vehicle and lifter. In other words, the unevenness is along the frontal plane. This may be due to bumps or any other factors. By tilting the carriage (114), anchor (120), and plate (122) along the frontal plane rather than a sagittal plane, a small engine machine can still be moved into the service vehicle and loaded onto the tilted plate (122) at a level position. As a result, there is a reduced risk of the machine falling during the lifter's operation. In a way, it improves convenience since the user does not have to move to a flat location or shop to do repair work.
[0070] The aspect relating to stability implements is also applied in the second alternative embodiment. Mainly, the spring-loaded pin (118) and anchor pin (304) help secure the lifter along the backplane (302), which stabilizes the lifter during operation. It should also be noted that although the cylindrical member is not present in this figure, it is obvious to those skilled in the art that it is presumably welded behind the backplane (302). The cylindrical member still envelops the lifter mast (104), allowing the entire lifter to move vertically. The use of the pins (118, 304) and the cylindrical member in this embodiment can support much of the dead weight and keep the lifter and the machine stationary. As a result, a standard winch can be used to merely guide the lifter.
[0071] The backplane slots (306, 308, 310, 312) are shown as discrete slots.
It is one example of how the slots (306, 308, 310, 312) can be implemented to adjust the tilted position of the tilting lifter components (114, 120, 122). In another embodiment, there can be more backplane slots (306, 308, 310, 312) for additional locking positions along the frontal plane. By using this particular embodiment, further adaptability may be achieved since the tilting lifter components (114, 120, 122) can be placed in a position along the frontal plane with greater precision.
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 [0072] It may be obvious to those skilled in the art that either the anchor pin (304) or the spring-loaded locking pin (118) has to be inserted into the respective backplane slots (306, 308, 310, 312) for the tilting lifter components (114, 120, 122) to securely move along the frontal plane. In another embodiment, an extra stability implement may be used to stabilize the lifter in the event that both pins (118, 304) are removed from the backplane slots (306, 308, 310, 312).
[0073] FIG. 4 illustrates side views of the preferred embodiment of the in-vehicle tabular lifter from its lowered position to a raised position, then finally to a position with its plate fully folded. Sub-figure (a) illustrates a side view of the preferred embodiment of the lifter (100) in its lowered or unloaded position.
All descriptions of the lifter and its components in FIG. 1 also apply here.
The lifter (100) starts at an initial position; this is considered the initial plate position (220), which is marked along the bottom of the plate (122). Since the plate (122) moves with other components of the lifter (100), any mention of the plate (122) position in this figure also implies the general lifter (100) position. Hence, the initial position is considered the initial plate position (220). A joint (128) on the anchor (120) has a pin switch (402), which is angled downward at an initial locked pin switch position (408). It should be noted that the sub-figure shows one joint (128) and pin switch (402) on one side of the anchor (120); it is obvious to those skilled in the art that another joint (128) and pin switch (402) are located on the other side of the anchor (120). As the lifter (100) prepares its vertical ascent, the user pulls the spring-loaded pin (118) away from the carriage (114). [0074] Sub-figure (b) illustrates a side view of the preferred embodiment of the lifter (100) in a raised position. The user presses a button on the remote (126) to activate the tabular lifter (100). More specifically, the remote (126) sends an electric signal to the winch (108) via the attached power cable (124). The winch (108) then winds in the steel rope (110) and attached hook (112) to pull the carriage (114) up, which also lifts the anchor (120) and plate (122). During this movement, the cylindrical member (116) welded to the carriage (114) moves along the lifter mast (104). As the lifter (100) moves up, the lifter (100) moves from the initial plate position (220) to the raised plate position (406) with a vertical lifter movement (404). Once the lifter (100) reaches the raised plate position (406), the spring-loaded locking pin (118) is then automatically inserted into the lifter mast (104) to secure the lifter (100) in place. The lifter can also move from the raised plate position (406) back to the initial plate position (220) with a vertical lifter movement (404).
[0075] The plate (122) in the preferred embodiment and the first alternative embodiment in FIG. 2 are the same. Since they both start out flat along the floor of the vehicle's interior space, the initial plate position (220) is considered interchangeable between embodiments.
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 [0076] The raised plate position (406) is one example of a vertical position of the lifter (100). In actuality, the lifter (100) can be raised to any position along the lifter mast (104) up the bottom of the winch (108). The height is determined by the user depending on the type of machine on the lifter (100) and the type of repair needed. In a sense, this improves convenience for the user.
[0077] Sub-figure (c) illustrates a side view of the preferred embodiment of the lifter (100) in a raised position, particularly with its plate (122) fully folded in line with the lifter (100). The pin switches (402) and associated joints (128) pivot around the anchor (120) with a pivoting pin switch movement (410) from the initial locked pin switch position (408) to an unlocked pin switch position (412). This unlocked pin switch position (412) is parallel to the floor of the vehicle's interior space. The anchor (120) pivots with the joints (128) around the carriage (114). In the rotated state, the anchor (120) is perpendicular to the carriage (114). The plate (122) and anchor (120) move from the raised plate position (406) to the upright plate position (416) with a rotating anchor movement (414). At the upright plate position (416), the plate (122) is parallel to the other lifter (100) components, and the anchor (120) is parallel to the floor. The plate (122) and anchor (120) are then locked into the upright plate position (416) when the pin switches (402) and associated joints (128) pivot from the unlocked pin switch position (412) to the locked pin switch position (408) with a pivoting pin switch movement (410).
[0078] Using the customizable plate (122) adjustment and small footprint aspects, the present disclosure achieves increased vehicle space utilization. The plate (122) in the upright plate position (416) protrudes slightly from the vehicle's interior wall, taking up little space.
Extra space inside the vehicle's interior becomes available, primarily the floor space. In this case, the extra floor space can be used to store additional tools or goods.
[0079] The user is required to tilt the plate (122) and anchor (120) manually to achieve the upright plate position (416). In another embodiment, this can be done automatically.
The remote (126) may be modified to accommodate the rotating anchor movement (414). This will improve convenience for the user because they can save time and effort; however, such a setup may need additional electrical components, which may affect the footprint aspect of the lifter (100).
[0080] FIG. 5 illustrates perspective views of the tabular lifter's spring-loaded locking pin from the preferred embodiment, as well as a side view of the screw-based pin from the tabular lifter's first alternative embodiment. Sub-figure (a) illustrates a perspective view of the tabular lifter's spring-loaded locking pin (118) from the preferred embodiment, where the spring-loaded locking pin (118) is released from a first lifter mast pin slot (504). The lifter starts at a given position along the lifter mast (104). More specifically, the sub- figure shows the cylindrical member (116) and top portion of the carriage (114) at Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 an initial locking position (502), marked at the center of a first lifter mast pin slot (104). The spring-loaded locking pin (118) is initially inserted in the first lifter mast pin slot (504) and is stored within a carriage drawer (508) at the top portion of the carriage (114). A spring (506) coils around the locking pin (118) inside the carriage drawer (508). The locking pin (118) protrudes outside the carriage drawer (508), forming a right-angled handle.
[0081] The carriage drawer (508) starts in a closed drawer position (510);
this position is marked along the top edge of the carriage drawer (508) in line with the front of the carriage (114). For the lifter to vertically move, the user pulls the external handle portion of the spring-loaded locking pin (118). The opening drawer movement (512) brings the spring-loaded locking pin (118) and the carriage drawer (508) out to the open drawer position (514). At the same time, the spring (506) enveloping the spring-loaded locking pin (118) extends out in a stretched state, with each loop becoming farther apart. Once brought out to the open drawer position (514), the spring-loaded locking pin (118) and carriage drawer (508) are locked in place.
[0082] Sub-figure (b) illustrates a perspective view of the tabular lifter's spring-loaded locking pin (118) from the preferred embodiment, where the spring-loaded locking pin (118) is inserted into a second lifter mast pin slot (520). The carriage (114) and cylindrical member (116) move up the lifter mast (104) with a vertical cylindrical member movement (516) from the initial locking position (502) at the first lifter mast pin slot (504) to a final locking position (518) at a second lifter mast pin slot (520). When the carriage (114) and the spring-loaded locking pin (118) are aligned with the second lifter mast pin slot (520), the carriage drawer (508) in the open drawer position (514) automatically moves to the closed drawer position (510) with a closing drawer movement (522). At the same time, the spring (506) retracts back to an unstretched position with the loops touching one another. The spring-loaded locking pin (118) is then inserted into the second lifter mast pin slot (520).
[0083] The process above is also applicable if the carriage (114) and cylindrical member (116) were to move back from the final locking position (518) at the second lifter mast pin slot (520) to the initial locking position (502) at the first lifter mast pin slot (504).
[0084] Sub-figure (c) illustrates a side view of the alternative tabular lifter's screw-based pin (206) from the first alternative embodiment. The user manually inserts a screw-based pin (206) at the base of the alternative carriage (202). The pointed tip of the screw-based pin (206) is inserted into a continuous locking groove (524) on the lifter mast (104).
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 [0085] All sub-figures show how increased stability is achieved thanks to the spring-loaded and screw-based locking pins (118, 206) acting as stability implements. The locking pins (118, 206) in both embodiments work with the cylindrical member (116) on the lifter mast (104) to hold the lifter in place as it moves. Since the lifter is not swinging around during movement, either a standard winch or hoist can be used since the support of dead weight is shared with the stability implements (116, 118, 206). In some ways, this provides flexibility and convenience when it comes to the installation of components for the lifter. [0086]
The locking pins (118, 206) also improve convenience for the user since there is no need to blindly pinpoint slots for the locking pins (118, 206). In other words, it saves time. In the preferred embodiment, the spring-loaded locking pin (118) acts automatically upon reaching a new lifter mast pin slot (504, 520). In the second embodiment, the slot on the lifter mast (104) is one long continuous lifter mast locking groove (524), so the user just needs to put the screw-based pin (206) inside the slot on the alternative carriage (202). In a sense, the lifter mast locking groove (524) is better for placing the lifter at more precise positions along the lifter mast (104).
The screw-based pin (206) is also considered more secure because it is considered better at holding loads.
[0087] FIG. 6 illustrates side views relating to how an in-vehicle tabular lifter of the preferred embodiment raises a lawnmower and tractor machine for on-site repairs. Sub-figure (a) illustrates a side view of a lawnmower (604) loaded into a service vehicle (102) for on-site repairs with the tabular lifter.
The user opens the rear door of the service vehicle (102) and loads a ramp (602) at the base of the vehicle's (102) rear opening. The ramp (602) is sloped diagonally to make a connection between the ground and the vehicle's (102) interior. A lawnmower (604) with an external top engine (606) moves in a direction (608) toward the vehicle (102). In this sub-figure, the front mower track (610) is loaded onto the ramp (602), while the rear mower track (612) is on the ground.
[0088] The ramp (602) in this sub-figure is a general representation that can vary depending on the embodiment. In one embodiment, the ramp (602) is a single sheet of metal with an attachment portion connecting to the base of the vehicle's (102) rear opening. In another embodiment, there are two thinner ramps (602), each of which accommodates an individual wheelbase of an entire small engine machine. In yet another embodiment, the ramps (602) can have telescoping segments for better space utilization when stored in the vehicle (102). In yet another embodiment, the ramp (602) is an integrated part of the vehicle (102), such as a ramp door at the rear of the vehicle (102).
[0089] Sub-figure (b) illustrates a side view of a lawnmower (604) loaded onto the tabular lifter for on-site repairs. The lifter is in an unloaded position. The lawnmower (604) is loaded onto the lifter with both sets of mower wheels (610, 612) on the plate (122). The lawnmower (604) is situated at an initial Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 mower position (614), marked along the bottom of the mower wheels (610, 612).
The user then pulls the spring- loaded locking pin (118) to ready the lifter for movement.
[0090] Both sub-figures show convenience is achieved since the user just pushes the lawnmower (604) from outside the vehicle (102) to the lifter inside the vehicle (102). A ramp (602) is simply placed at the rear of the vehicle (102) to bring the lawnmower (604). Typically, the ramp (602) is removable and requires no extra steps for installation onto the vehicle's (102) rear opening.
[0091] Sub-figure (c) illustrates a side view of a tabular lifter raising a lawnmower (604) for on-site repairs. All descriptions of the lifter, its components, and its vertical movement in previous figures also apply here. The user presses a button on the remote (126), which sends a signal to the winch (108) via a power cable (124). The winch (108) winds in the steel rope (110) and hook (112) to raise the lifter. As the lifter is raised, the cylindrical member (116) moves up along the lifter mast. At the raised position, the spring- loaded locking pin (118) automatically springs back to insert itself into a pin slot on the lifter mast (104). The lawnmower (604) on the lifter moves with a vertical mower movement (616) from the initial mower position (614) to a raised mower position (618). When the required repairs are done, the lifter lowers the lawnmower (604) from the raised mower position (618) to the initial mower position (614) via the vertical mower movement (622).
[0092] Sub-figure (d) illustrates a side view of a tabular lifter lifting a tractor (620) machine for on-site repairs. All descriptions of the lifter, its components, and its vertical movement in previous figures also apply here. The tractor (620) is a large vehicle-sized machine with an internal front engine (622). The tractor (620) is loaded onto the tabular lifter with its front side facing the device. Because of its size, only the front tractor track (624) is loaded onto the plate (122), while the rear tractor track (626) remains on the floor of the service vehicle (102).
[0093] The tractor (620) in this sub-figure is shown with its front track (624) loaded onto the plate (122). In another embodiment, the rear track (624) can be loaded onto the plate (122). This can be done if a particular repair is needed at the back of the tractor (620) or if the engine is located at the rear. The ability to load a tractor (620) in this manner may also depend on the ramp (602), as backing up the tractor (620) may require a wide singular ramp (602).
[0094] The figure not only shows the improved convenience of loading a machine (604, 620) onto the lifter, but it also shows how the number of services for on-site repair can be increased due to the flexibility in repair options. The tabular lifter has a plate (122) with a fixed length that can hold a smaller machine entirely or partially hold a larger tractor machine. The plate (122) also has a fixed width that fits Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 the track width of most small engine machines. In another embodiment, the plate (122) has folding or telescoping segments, which would allow for customization of length and width to further accommodate machines with different track widths or wheelbases. Implementing such an embodiment may also lead to an even smaller footprint, which leads to increased vehicle space utilization.
[0095] Both the lawnmower (604) and tractor (620) in sub-figures (c) and (d) can be lifted to any height since the lifter can be raised to any position along the lifter mast (104) between the floor of the vehicle's (102) interior to the bottom of the winch (108). This flexibility in the lifter's vertical height improves convenience for the user to raise the machines (604, 620) at a height based on user comfort and the repair required. [0096] Sub-figure (d) demonstrates one means of repairing the underside of the tractor (620), mainly to access the front-facing engine (622). Because only one set of tracks (624, 626) can be loaded onto the plate (122), the user can move to the side of the tractor (620) to go underneath. The plate (122) is solid, so repairing the underside of a machine is limited to larger machines like the tractor (620) in this sub-figure. In an alternative embodiment, there is a hole in the middle of the plate (122) to allow access to the underside; this will be further shown and explained in FIG. 7.
[0097] FIG. 7 illustrates top and side views of a third alternative embodiment of the in-vehicle tabular lifter with a retractable underside repair access hole on the plate as well as showing how a user can repair a machine from its underside. Sub-figure (a) illustrates a top view of the third alternative embodiment comprising an alternative lifter plate (702) with an underside repair access hole (704). The alternative plate (702) has a rectangular underside repair access hole (704) in the middle. The side lengths of the plate (702), shown at the top and bottom of the sub-figure, are used to accommodate each wheelbase of a machine.
[0098] Sub-figure (b) illustrates a top view of the third alternative embodiment with an access hole cover (706) sliding along the alternative lifter plate (702) to open up the underside repair access hole (704). All descriptions of the alternative plate (702) and access hole (704) in FIG. 7(a) also apply here. An access hole cover (706) is situated in the middle of the alternative plate (702), which covers the opening provided by the access hole (704). The access hole cover (706) moves along the length of the alternative plate (702) in one direction. Looking at the sub-figure, the cover (706) moves from left to right moves with an access hole cover movement (712). The cover (706) is adjustable to stop at any position along the length of the alternative plate (702) up to the outward edge of the access hole (704).
[0099] The cover (706) helps improve convenience when using the third alternative embodiment because it allows machines to be loaded onto the lifter without concern for the wheel being stuck in the access hole (704). Depending on the embodiment, the cover (706) can be placed on the top or bottom Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 of the alternative plate (702). In yet another embodiment, the cover is situated on the top and bottom of the alternative plate (702). The alternative plate (702) would have a hollow slot next to the outward edge of the access hole (704) along the loading end, which would be perpendicular to the outward edge of the access hole. The cover (706) has a vertical, perpendicular segment between the top and bottom sides of the cover (706); this segment slides through the perpendicular slot from the alternative plate (702), allowing the cover (706) to slide and open the access hole (704).
[00100] The cover (706) in this sub-figure shows the cover sliding in one direction along the length of the alternative plate (702) with an access hole cover movement (712). In one embodiment, the cover (706) can move in other ways. For example, the cover (706) can move up to one side of the alternative plate's (702) length. Looking at the sub-figure, this would be an up and down movement along the alternative plate's (702) width. In another embodiment, the cover (706) can rotate or pivot along a certain point on the alternative plate (702).
[00101] Sub-figure (c) illustrates a side view of a raised tabular lifter, showing how a user can repair the underside of a small engine machine. A lawnmower (604) is loaded onto the lifter. The lifter then moves to a raised plate position (406) equivalent to that of FIG. 4(b). A user can lie down and move underneath the alternative plate (702). The user then slides the access hole cover (706) outward away from the rest of the lifter. The user can now access the underside of the lawnmower (604).
[00102] The sub-figure illustrates a visual representation of how the present disclosure achieves increased adaptability, primarily with the protective shelter aspect. As the user is inside the vehicle, they are shielded from environmental factors like poor weather (e.g., rain, wind, or snow) and extreme temperatures (e.g., heat or cold). The protective shelter aspect also removes the user and the lawnmower (604) from prying eyes and distracting noises, so the user can do the repairs with full concentration.
Additionally, the vehicle can hide the user and machine in plain sight. In other words, the lifter blends into any environment, such as an urban center.
[00103] Overall, the repair access hole (704) in this figure achieves flexibility and an increased number of services that one can provide because the user can do additional repairs underneath a small machine.
For example, the lawnmower (604) in sub-figure (c) can be accessed from underneath to do services like an oil change or blade change. Without the access hole (704), repairs available would be limited to engine repairs or tire repairs. Furthermore, the cover (706) in sub-figure (b) can move outward to any position along the alternative plate's (702) length. In such a case, when doing an oil change, if the cover (706) is opened only partially, just enough to access the required part, then the cover (706) may serve as a sort of splash guard.
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09 [00104] FIG. 8 illustrates the lifter method that includes but is not limited to the following steps: b) loading a small engine vehicle onto the plate by rolling it there atop;
pressing a button on the remote engaging the winch and lifting the carriage (thereby lifting the small engine vehicle); and securing the screw-based locking pin to the lifter mast so that it remains at elevation.
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-06-09

Claims

CLAIMS (5) What is claimed is:

1. An in-vehicle tabular lifter for mobile repairs comprising the following parts:
a) a lifter mast;
b) a support beam;
c) a carriage;
d) a plate; and e) a remote.

2. The in-vehicle tabular lifter for mobile repairs of claim 1, wherein the support beam having a mast winch with a steel rope and hook.

3. The in-vehicle tabular lifter for mobile repairs of claim 1, wherein the carriage having a hollow cylindrical member with locking pin slidably-secured to the lifter mast.

4. The in-vehicle tabular lifter for mobile repairs of claim 1, wherein the carriage having an anchor with screw-based locking pin and connecting a plate to the cylindrical member.

5. A method of lifting small engine vehicles inside a service vehicle's interior comprising the following steps:
a) providing the in-vehicle tabular lifter of claim 1;
b) loading a small engine vehicle onto the plate;
b) pressing a button on the remote engaging the winch;
c) lifting the carriage; and d) securing the screw-based locking pin.