WO2021032889A1 - A hand operated truck - Google Patents

Abstract

A hand operated truck (1) comprising a main support element (3) and a platform (8) extending forwardly from the main support element (3). The platform (8) comprises a plurality of platform segments (9) which are pivotally supported on and between a pair of spaced apart scissors mechanisms (7) which extend forwardly from the main support element (3). The main support element (3) is carried on a pair of spaced apart steerable proximal ground engaging wheels (5). A steering handle (51) operably connected to the proximal ground engaging wheels (5) steers the ground engaging wheels (5). A pair of spaced apart distal ground engaging wheels (10) are rotatably mounted on the scissors mechanisms (7) adjacent the distal end thereof. The scissors mechanisms (7) are operable from a first retracted state with the hand operated truck in a stowable state for stowing in a stowing location of a refuse collection vehicle within or beneath the chassis thereof, and a second extended state for transporting wheelie bins from a storage location to the refuse collection vehicle.

Description

“A hand operated truck"

The present invention relates to a hand operated truck, and in particular, though not limited to a hand operated truck suitable for moving large industrial size wheelie bins.

Large industrial size wheelie bins, which typically are of capacity of the order of 1,100 litres in general, are cumbersome to move from one location to another. Additionally, when such industrial size wheelie bins are filled with relatively heavy refuse materials, such wheelie bins may require more than one person to move the wheelie bin. In general, industrial premises, apartment blocks or office blocks may have a number of such industrial size wheelie bins, and particularly, in apartment blocks and office blocks such wheelie bins tend to be located in a basement of the building, and typically, in a basement carpark of the building. Thus, when the contents of such wheelie bins are to be collected by a refuse collection truck, due to the size of such refuse collection trucks, it is not possible to drive the refuse collection truck down to the location of the wheelie bins. This, therefore requires the wheelie bins to be wheeled from their normal storage location to the refuse collection truck. In general, this requires wheeling the wheelie bins up a relatively steeply inclined ramp from the carpark when the wheelie bins are full and at their heaviest. This, may require two or more persons to wheel each wheelie bin from its normal storage location to the refuse collection truck. In general, where apartment and office blocks may have a large number of these wheelie bins, for example, five or six of such wheelie bins, the collection of the refuse from the wheelie bins can be quite a time consuming task, and also, requires considerable manpower.

There is therefore a need to address this problem.

The present invention is directed towards providing a hand operated truck which addresses the problem.

According to the invention there is provided a hand operated truck comprising a main support element, an extendable support means connected to the main support element and extendable from a first state adjacent the main support element with the hand operated truck in a stowable state to a second state extended and projecting from the main support element in a direction parallel to the direction of normal forward motion of the truck with the truck in a transport state, and a platform comprising a plurality of platform segments configurable in a rest state adjacent the main support element with the extendable support means in the first state, and in an operational state supported on the extendable support means in the second state forming an elongated platform extending from the main support element in the direction parallel to the direction of normal forward motion of the truck.

In one embodiment of the invention the platform is coupled to the extendable support means.

In another embodiment of the invention the extendable support means comprises at least one scissors mechanism, and preferably, two spaced apart scissors mechanisms are located on respective opposite sides of the platform. Preferably, each scissors mechanism comprises a plurality of pairs of scissors links, the scissors links of each pair thereof being pivotally connected to each other intermediate their respective ends about a main pivot axis, and advantageously, the scissors links of each pair thereof are pivotally connected to each other about the main pivot axis thereof substantially mid-way between the respective opposite ends thereof. Preferably, the main pivot axes of the respective pairs of the scissors links extend parallel to each other, and advantageously, extend transversely relative to the direction of normal forward motion of the truck.

In another embodiment of the invention each pair of the scissors links adjacent the ends thereof of each scissors mechanism is pivotally connected to an adjacent pair of the scissors links of that scissors mechanism adjacent the corresponding ends thereof. Preferably, each pair of the scissors links is pivotally connected to the adjacent pair of the scissors links about respective secondary pivot axes, which preferably, extend parallel to each other and advantageously, the secondary pivot axes extend parallel to the main pivot axes.

In another embodiment of the invention the main pivot axes of the respective pairs of the scissors links extend substantially horizontally.

In another embodiment of the invention the main pivot axes of the pairs of the scissors links of the respective scissors mechanisms extend parallel to each other.

Advantageously, the main pivot axes of the pairs of the scissors links of the respective scissors mechanisms corresponding to each other coincide with each other, and preferably, the secondary pivot axes of the pairs of the scissors links of the respective scissors mechanisms corresponding to each other coincide with each other.

Preferably, the respective scissors mechanisms are configured so that one of the secondary pivot axes about which each pair of the scissors links is pivotally connected to an adjacent pair of the scissors links is located above the corresponding other one of the secondary pivot axes.

Advantageously, the respective ones of the secondary pivot axes about which each pair of the scissors links is pivotally connected to an adjacent pair of the scissors links lie in a substantially vertically extending plane.

In one embodiment of the invention the lower secondary pivot axes of the respective corresponding pairs of the scissors links of the respective scissors mechanisms are defined by respective support shafts joining the corresponding pairs of the scissors links of the respective scissors mechanisms and pivotally coupling the adjacent pivot links of the adjacent pairs thereof together.

In another embodiment of the invention, each platform segment is pivotally connected to a corresponding one of the scissors links of a corresponding pair thereof.

In a further embodiment of the invention, each platform segment is pivotally connected to the corresponding one of the scissors links of the corresponding pair thereof about one of the primary and secondary pivot axes of that pair of the scissors links.

In another embodiment of the invention each platform segment is pivotally connected to the corresponding one of the scissors links of the corresponding pair thereof about one of the secondary pivot axes of scissors links of the pair thereof. Preferably, each platform segment is pivotally connected to the corresponding one of the scissors link of the corresponding pair thereof about the lower secondary pivot axis of the corresponding pair of the scissors links. Advantageously, each platform segment is pivotally connected to the corresponding one of the scissors link of the corresponding pair thereof adjacent a proximal end of the platform segment. Preferably, a distal end of each platform segment is supported on the proximal end of the adjacent platform segment when the linkage mechanism is in the second state.

Preferably, the distal end of each platform segment is supported on the proximal end of the adjacent distal platform segment when the linkage mechanism is in the second state.

In one embodiment of the invention each platform segment is pivotally mounted on the support shaft of the corresponding one of the scissors links of the corresponding pair thereof. Preferably, the distal end of each platform segment overlaps a proximal portion of the adjacent distal platform segment when the scissors mechanism is in the second state. Advantageously, the platform segments are retained substantially side-by-side and substantially parallel to each other in the rest state.

In another embodiment of the invention the distal most one of the platform segments is pivotal from the rest state to a ramp forming state for forming a ramp to the platform.

In another embodiment of the invention a first latching means is provided for retaining the distal most platform segment in the rest state.

In a further embodiment of the invention each scissors mechanism is coupled to the main support element by the scissors links of the proximal pair thereof. In one embodiment of the invention one of the proximal scissors links of the proximal pair thereof of each scissors mechanism is pivotally coupled to the main support element about a first coupling pivot axis, and the other one of the proximal scissors link of the proximal pair thereof is slideably coupled to the main support element. Preferably, the proximal scissors link of the proximal pair thereof which is slideably coupled to the main support element is slideable relative to the main support element in a generally upwardly/downwardly direction. Advantageously, the proximal scissors link of the proximal pair thereof which is slideably coupled to the main support element is pivotal relative to the main support element about the second coupling pivot axis.

In one embodiment of the invention the first coupling pivot axis coincides with the proximal most one of the lower secondary pivot axes of each scissors mechanism.

Preferably, the proximal scissors link of the proximal pair thereof of each scissors mechanism, which is only pivotally coupled to the main support element, is pivotally coupled to the main support element at a level below the level at which the proximal scissors link of the proximal pair thereof, which is slideably coupled to the main support element, is slideably coupled to the main support element.

In one embodiment of the invention an urging means is provided for operating the extendable support means between the first state and the second state. In another embodiment of the invention the urging means is operably coupled between the main support means and the extendable support means. Alternatively, the urging means is operably coupled between two of the scissors links of one of the pair thereof of the scissors mechanism.

Preferably, the urging means comprises one of a linear motor and a ram.

In another embodiment of the invention a second latching means is provided for retaining the extendable support means in the first state.

In another embodiment of the invention the urging means is configured to act as the second latching means.

In a further embodiment of the invention the truck comprises at least three ground engaging wheels. Preferably, at least one of the at least three ground engaging wheels comprises a proximal ground engaging wheel, and preferably, the at least one proximal ground engaging wheel is carried on the main support element, and preferably, is rotatably carried on the main support element. Advantageously, the at least one proximal ground engaging wheel is a steerable ground engaging wheel, and advantageously, the at least one proximal ground engaging wheel comprises a driven wheel. Preferably, the at least one proximal ground engaging wheel is driven by a motor, and preferably, by an electrical motor, and advantageously, the electric motor is battery powered.

In another embodiment of the invention a pair of the proximal ground engaging wheels are carried spaced apart on the main support element.

In another embodiment of the invention at least one of the at least three ground engaging wheels comprises a distal ground engaging wheel, and preferably, the at least one distal ground engaging wheel is carried adjacent a distal end of the extendable support means. Preferably, the at least one distal ground engaging wheel is rotatably carried on the extendable support means. Preferably, a pair of spaced apart distal ground engaging wheels are carried on the extendable support means. In one embodiment of the invention the at least one distal ground engaging wheel is rotatably carried on the distal most one of the support shafts. In another embodiment of the invention a steering handle extends from the main support element, the steering handle being operably coupled to the at least one proximal ground engaging wheel for steering thereof.

In another embodiment of the invention a control means is provided for controlling the operation of the motor of the at least one proximal ground engaging wheel, and advantageously, the control means is located on the handle.

In one embodiment of the invention the truck in the stowable state is of size for stowing in a road vehicle.

In another embodiment of the invention the truck in the stowable state is of size for stowing in one of a chassis and beneath a chassis of the road vehicle.

In a further embodiment of the invention the truck in the stowable state is of size for stowing in a refuse collection vehicle, and preferably, the truck in the stowable state is of size for stowing in a location in or beneath the chassis of a refuse collection vehicle.

Preferably, the platform in the operational state is configured to support at least one industrial size wheelie bin, and preferably, the platform in the operational state is configured to support a plurality of industrial size wheelie bins simultaneously, and ideally, the platform in the operational state is configured to support at least three wheelie bins simultaneously, and preferably, to support at least six wheelie bins simultaneously.

In another embodiment of the invention the platform is of width substantially similar to the width of an industrial size wheelie bin, and preferably, is of width to permit wheeling of the wheelie bins along the platform between the distal and proximal ends thereof.

The advantages of the invention are many. One of the most important advantages of the invention is that by virtue of the fact that the hand truck according to the invention is operable in a transport state and a stowable state, the hand truck can be operated into the stowable state, and in the stowable state it is of such a size that it neatly fits into a stowing location under or within the chassis of a road vehicle, such as a refuse collection vehicle. When it is required, the hand truck can readily be removed from the stowing location of the road or refuse collection vehicle, and then can be operated into the transport state for transporting industrial size wheelie bins or other containers or articles from their normal storage location to the road or refuse collection vehicle, and the wheelie bins or other containers or articles can be returned from the road or refuse collection vehicle by the hand truck to their normal storage state. On completion of this operation, the hand truck can then again be operated into the stowable state and stowed in the stowing location of the road or refuse collection vehicle.

The invention will be more clearly understood from the following description of some referred embodiments thereof, which are given by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a hand operated truck according to the invention in a stowable state,

Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the hand operated truck of Fig. 1 in a transport state,

Fig. 3 is a perspective view similar to Fig. 2 with a portion of the hand operated truck in a different state to that of Fig. 2,

Fig. 4 is a side elevational view of the hand operated truck of Fig. 1 in the state of Fig. 2,

Fig. 5 is a side elevational view of the hand operated truck of Fig. 1 in the state of Fig. 3,

Fig. 6 is a top plan view of the hand operated truck of Fig. 1 in the state of Fig. 2,

Fig. 7 is a top plan view of the hand operated truck of Fig. 1 in the state of Fig. 3,

Fig. 8 is a side elevational view of the hand operated truck of Fig. 1 in the state of Fig 1,

Fig. 9 is a side elevational view of a detail of the hand operated truck of Fig. 1 in the state of Fig. 2,

Fig. 10 is a top plan view of a portion of the hand operated truck of Fig. 1,

Fig. 11 is a side elevational view of the portion of Fig. 10 of the hand operated truck of Fig. 1, Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a hand operated truck according to another embodiment of the invention,

Fig. 13 is another perspective view of the hand operated truck of Fig. 11 from a different direction, and

Fig. 14 is an underneath perspective view of a portion of the hand operated truck of Fig. 12.

Referring to the drawings and initially to Figs. 1 to 11 thereof, there is illustrated a hand operated truck according to the invention indicated generally by the reference numeral 1 , which is particularly suitable for moving one or more industrial size wheelie bins (not shown) from a storage location to a refuse collection vehicle (also not shown). Such industrial size wheelie bins typically are of capacity in the order of 1 ,100 litres, and are commonly used for holding domestic waste from apartments and houses in managed complexes for subsequent collection by a waste collection and disposal utility or company. Such wheelie bins may also be used for holding waste from offices and industrial premises in managed complexes. However, needless to say, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the hand operated truck 1 may be used for moving any other container or containers, articles or indeed any other materials from one location to another.

The hand truck 1 is operable in a stowable state illustrated in Fig. 1 and in a transport state illustrated in Fig. 2. In the stowable state the hand truck 1 is of size to be stowable in a refuse collection vehicle or other road vehicle, for example, in a stowing location under the chassis or within the chassis of the refuse collection or road vehicle. In the transport state the hand truck 1 is suitable for transporting the wheelie bins.

The hand truck 1 comprises a main support element 3 which carries a pair of parallel spaced apart proximal ground engaging wheels 5 which will be described in more detail below. An extendable support means, which in this embodiment of the invention, comprises a pair of parallel spaced apart scissors mechanisms 7 coupled to the main support element 3 and extending forwardly therefrom in a direction parallel to the direction of normal forward motion of the hand truck 1, namely, in the direction of the arrow A. The scissors mechanisms 7 are extendable from a first state illustrated in Fig. 1 adjacent the main support element 3 with the hand truck 1 in the stowable state to a second state illustrated in Fig. 2 extending forwardly from the main support element 3 in the direction parallel to the direction of normal forward motion of the hand truck 1 with the hand truck 1 in the transport state for transporting the industrial size wheelie bins.

A platform 8 comprising a plurality of platform segments 9 are carried on the scissors mechanisms 7 for supporting the industrial wheelie bins or other containers thereon. A pair of distal ground engaging wheels 10 are rotatably carried on the scissors mechanisms 7 adjacent a distal end 12 thereof, as will be described below.

Turning initially to the scissors mechanisms 7, each scissors mechanism 7 comprises a plurality of pairs 14 of scissors links 15 which are pivotally coupled intermediate their ends by corresponding main pivot pins 17 which define corresponding main pivot axes 19. The main pivot axes 19 extend parallel to each other and transversely relative to the direction of normal forward motion of the hand truck 1 and substantially horizontally. The scissors links 15 of each pair 14 thereof are pivotally coupled to each other by the corresponding main pivot pins 17 at locations midway between the ends thereof. Each pair 14 of the scissors links 15 of each scissors mechanism 7 is pivotally coupled to the adjacent pair 14 of the scissors links 15 by upper secondary pivot pins 20 and lower support shafts 21. The upper secondary pivot pins 20 define upper secondary pivot axes 23 which extend parallel to each other and extend parallel to the main pivot axes 19. The lower support shafts 21 define lower secondary pivot axes 24 which also extend parallel to each other and parallel to the main pivot axes 19. The lower support shafts 21 extend between the scissors mechanisms 7 and join the scissors mechanisms 7 with corresponding ones of the pairs 14 of the scissors links 15 of the respective scissors mechanisms 7 aligned with each other, so that the main pivot axes 19 of the corresponding ones of the pairs 14 of the scissors links 15 of the respective scissors mechanisms 7 coincide with each other. Similarly, the upper secondary pivot axes 23 of the corresponding pairs 14 of the scissors links 15 of the respective scissors mechanisms 7 also coincide with each other.

The scissors mechanisms 7 are coupled to the main support element 3 by the proximal pairs 14a of the proximal scissors links 15a. The proximal most lower support shaft 21 a of the proximal pairs 14a ofthe proximal scissors links 15a is mounted in the main support element 3, and pivotally couples the corresponding ones ofthe proximal scissors links 15 ofthe proximal pairs thereof ofthe respective scissors mechanisms 7 about a first coupling axis 30 coinciding with the proximal lower secondary pivot axis 24. The proximal most upper secondary pivot pins 20a ofthe proximal pairs 14a ofthe proximal scissors links 15a ofthe respective scissors mechanisms 7 are slideably and pivotally coupled to the main support element 3 and slideably and pivotally engage corresponding elongated guide channels 33 located in the main support element 3 on respective opposite sides thereof. The guide channels 33 in the main support element 3 facilitate upward and downward movement of the proximal upper secondary pivot pins 20a of the corresponding one of the proximal scissors links 15 of the proximal pair 14a thereof relative to the main support element 3, and also facilitate pivoting of the proximal upper secondary pivot pins 20a about a second coupling pivot axis 31 in the guide channels 33, for in turn facilitating urging of the scissors mechanisms 7 between the first state adjacent the main support element 3 and the second state fully extended forwardly from the main support element 3.

The platform segments 9 are pivotally carried on the respective lower support shafts 21 adjacent proximal ends 35 thereof, and are pivotal between a rest state illustrated in Fig. 1 extending generally upwardly from the respective corresponding lower support shafts 21, side-by-side with each other and substantially parallel to each other when the scissors mechanisms 7 are in the first state, and an operational state illustrated in Fig. 2 for forming the platform 8 when the scissors mechanisms are in the second state. The proximal most one 9a of the platform segments 9 is pivotally carried on the proximal lower support shaft 21a which pivotally couples the proximal pairs 14a of the proximal scissors links 15a to the main support element 3. The platform segments 9 are of width to extend from one scissors mechanism 7 to the other scissors mechanism 7. Each platform segment 9 is of length in the direction of the arrow A from the proximal end 35 thereof to a distal end 37 thereof which is greater than the maximum spacing between adjacent pairs of the lower support shafts 21 when the scissors mechanisms 7 are extended to the maximum length in the second state thereof, to which the scissors mechanisms 7 are permitted to extend as will be described below. By virtue of the platform segments 9 being of length greater than the spacing between adjacent ones of the lower support shafts 21 , when the scissors mechanisms 7 are in the second state extended to their maximum length, the distal end 37 of each platform segment 9 overlaps the proximal end 35 of its distally adjacent platform segment 9, and is supported on the proximal end 35 of the distally adjacent platform segment 9.

The distal most lower support shaft 21 b pivotally carries the distal most platform segment 9b which when the scissors mechanisms 7 are in the second state, the distal most platform segment 9b is pivotal downwardly into a ramp forming state to form a ramp up which the industrial size wheelie bins are wheeled from the ground onto the platform 8.

The distal ground engaging wheels 10 are rotatably carried on the distal most lower support shafts 21. Turning now to the main support element 3, the main support element 3 comprises a pair of spaced apart side plates 40 joined by a lower plate member 41 and a spaced apart upper plate member 42. The proximal lower support shaft 21 a, which pivotally carries the proximal most platform segment 9a and the corresponding ones of the proximal scissors links 15 of the proximal pairs 14a thereof, extends between and through the side plates 40 of the main support element 3 and is carried in the side plates 40. The guide channels 33, within which the proximal upper secondary pivot pins 20a of the corresponding ones of the proximal scissors links 15a of the proximal pairs 14a thereof are slideable, are formed by elongated guide housings 43 located on the inner sides of the respective side plates 40. Elongated guide slots 44 through the respective side plates 40 accommodate the respective proximal upper secondary pivot pins 20a into the corresponding guide channels 33. The maximum length to which the scissors mechanisms 7 can extend is determined by the length through which the proximal upper secondary pivot pins 20a are free to travel in the guide channels 33. The lower ends 34 of the guide channels 33 act as limit means for limiting the maximum length to which the scissors mechanisms 7 can extend in the second state thereof.

An urging means comprising either one or a pair of electric linear motors or one or a pair of hydraulic rams, neither of which are shown, are provided for operating the scissors mechanisms 7 between the first state and the second state thereof. If one linear motor or one ram is provided, the linear motor or the ram is coupled between the main support elements 3, typically on the outer side of the one of the side plates 40 thereof, and a suitable one of the secondary links 15 ofthe adjacent scissors mechanism 7, so that as the linear motor or ram is extended, the scissors mechanisms are operated from the first state to the second state, and vice versa, when the linear motor or the ram is retracted.

On the other hand, if a pair of linear motors or a pair of rams are provided, the linear motors, or the rams, as the case may be, would be provided on respective opposite sides ofthe support element 3, one ofthe linear motors or one ofthe rams being operably coupled between the side plate 40 one the outer side thereof on one side ofthe support element 3 and a suitable one ofthe scissors links 15 ofthe adjacent scissors mechanism 7, and the other one ofthe linear motors and the rams, as the case may be, would be operably coupled between the side plate 40 to the outer side thereof on the other side ofthe support element 3 and a suitable one ofthe scissors links 15 ofthe adjacent scissors mechanism 7.

In the event ofthe urging means for urging the scissors mechanisms 7 between the first and second states being provided by one or two hydraulic rams, an hydraulic power supply would be provided in the main support element 3 in order to power the hydraulic rams. The hydraulic power supply would be provided with a pump for pressurising the hydraulic power supply, and the pump could be a manually operated pump, or an electrically powered pump.

In this embodiment of the invention the proximal ground engaging wheels 5 are steerable and are driven by respective electrically powered motors 45. The proximal ground engaging wheel 5 and their corresponding motors 45 are carried on respective spaced apart king pins 48 extending through the lower plate member 41 and rotatably carried in corresponding bearings 49 located in the lower plate member 41 for steering the proximal ground engaging wheels 5 as will be described below.

Carrier brackets 46 extending downwardly from the respective king pins 48 comprise carrier plates 47. Housings 43 of the motors 45 are rigidly secured to the corresponding ones of the carrier plates 47.

Wheel hubs 50 are mounted fast on and carried on respective drive shafts (not shown) extending from the motors 45 through the corresponding carrier plates 47. The proximal ground engaging wheels 5 are secured in a conventional manner to the corresponding ones of the wheel hubs 50.

A steering handle 51 for steering the proximal ground engaging wheels 5 is rigidly carried on a carrier shaft 52 rotatably mounted in and extending upwardly from the lower plate member 41 about a rotational axis 56. The steering handle 51 is rigidly connected to the carrier shaft 52 intermediate and spaced apart from proximal and distal ends 53 and 54, respectively, of the steering handle 51. A connecting shaft 55 extends downwardly from the distal end 54 of the steering handle 51 and pivotally engages a pair of track rods 57, which in turn are pivotally connected to respective track rod end links 58 radially and rigidly extending from the respective king pins 48 for steering the proximal ground engaging wheels 5 as the steering handle is pivoted about the rotational axis 56 defined by the carrier shaft 52.

Hand grip elements 59 are located on the distal end 54 of the steering handle 51. A control means, namely, one or more control switches and control knobs 60 are provided on the steering handle 51 for controlling the operation of the electric motors 45.

A battery (not shown) is located in the main support element 3 for powering the electric motors 45. In the event of the urging means for urging the scissors mechanism 7 between the first and second states being provided by one or a pair of linear motors, the linear motors would be powered from the battery through one of the control switches 60 located on the hand grip elements 59. In the event of the hydraulic power supply being pressurised by an electrically powered pump, the electrically powered pump would be powered from the battery through one of the control switches 60 located on the hand grip elements 59.

A first latching means, in this embodiment of the invention a first latch member 62 is pivotally coupled on one of the distal most scissors links 15 of the distal most pair 14b thereof for engaging the distal most platform segment 9b, which acts as the ramp, for retaining the distal most platform segment 9b in the rest state extending generally upwardly, and side-by-side and parallel with the other platform segments 9 when the scissors mechanisms 7 are in the first state and the platform segments 9 are in the rest state. The first latch member 62 is also configured for supporting the distal most platform segment 9b in a retention state illustrated in Figs. 2 and 4 when the scissors mechanisms 7 are in the second state for retaining the wheelie bins on the platform 8, while the truck 1 with the scissors mechanisms 7 in the second state thereof.

A second latching means (not shown) is provided for retaining the scissors mechanisms 7 in the first state, and in turn for retaining the platform segments 9 in the rest state. The second latching means may comprise a second latch member (not shown) which would be pivotally coupled on one of the side plates 40 and would be configured to engage one of the scissors links 15 of the distal most pair 14b of scissors links 15 of the adjacent scissors mechanism 7. Alternatively, the second latch member could be configured to secure to scissors links 15 of two adjacent pairs 14 of scissors links 15 together.

Additionally, the second latching means may comprise the one or the pair of linear motors or rams for urging the scissors mechanisms 7 between the first and second states thereof when provided, which in the retracted state or states thereof would act to retain the scissors mechanisms 7 in the first state, and in turn would act to retain the platform segments 9 in the rest state.

In use, initially, if the hand truck 1 is not in the location at which the industrial size wheelie bins are located, the hand truck 1 in the stowable state illustrated in Fig. 1 is driven in the stowable state to the location of the industrial size wheelie bins. During driving of the hand truck 1 in the stowable state, the hand truck 1 in the stowable state is steered by the steering handle 51 , and the electric motors 45 are controlled by the appropriate control switches 60 on the hand grip elements 59. On reaching the location of the industrial size wheelie bins, the second latching means (not shown) is disengaged, thereby permitting the scissors mechanisms 7 to be operated from the first state to the second fully extended state. As the scissors mechanisms 7 are being operated from the first to the second state, the platform segments 9 pivot from the rest state to the operational state to form the platform 8. The distal most segment 9b pivots from the rest state to the ramp forming state to form the ramp to the platform 8. The industrial size wheelie bins are then wheeled onto the platform 8 over the distal most platform segment 9b forming the ramp.

When the appropriate number of the industrial size wheelie bins have been wheeled onto the platform 9, the distal most platform segment 9b is pivoted upwardly into the retention state and is retained in the retention state by the first latch member 62. The hand truck 1 with the industrial size wheelie bins on the platform 8 is then driven for moving the wheelie bins to the location to which they are to be moved. During driving of the hand truck 1 in the transport state, the hand truck 1 is steered by the steering handle 51, and the electric motors 45 are controlled by the appropriate control switches 60 on the hand grips elements 59 of the steering handle 51.

When the refuse in the wheelie bins has been discharged into the refuse collection vehicle, and the wheelie bins have been returned to their normal storage location by the hand truck 1 , the hand truck 1 is then driven back in either the transport state, but more likely in the stowable state, to the refuse collection vehicle. If the hand truck 1 is not already in the stowable state when the hand truck 1 has been driven to the refuse collection vehicle, the scissors mechanisms 7 are operated from the first to the second state, thereby operating the platform segments 9 from the operational state to the rest state and the first and second latches are operated into the latching state for latching the distal most platform segment 9b into the rest state and for retaining the scissors mechanisms 7 in the first state. With the hand truck 1 in the stowable state, the hand truck 1 is then stowed in a stowing locating under or within the chassis of the refuse collection vehicle.

Referring now to Figs. 12 to 14, there is illustrated a hand truck according to another embodiment of the invention indicated generally by the reference numeral 70. The hand truck 70 is substantially similar to the hand truck 1 described with reference to Figs. 1 to 11 , and similar components are identified by the same reference numerals. The main difference between the hand truck 70 of this embodiment of the invention and the hand truck 1 lies in the coupling of the scissors mechanisms 7 to the main support element 3, the operation of the scissors mechanisms 7 between the first state and the second state, the coupling of the proximal most platform segment 9a to the main support element 3, the operation of the distal most platform segment 9b and the steering of the proximal ground engaging wheels 5.

Turning initially to the coupling of the scissors mechanisms 7 to the main support element 3, in this embodiment of the invention the proximal scissors link 15a of each proximal pair 14a thereof, which is pivotally coupled to the main support element 3 is pivotally coupled to the corresponding side plate 40 of the main support element 3 by a corresponding lower proximal pivot pin 72. Each lower proximal pivot pin 72 pivotally engages a coupling plate 73 which is integrally formed with the corresponding side plate 40 and extends downwardly therefrom. The lower proximal pivot pins 72 of the respective scissors mechanisms 7 are aligned with each other and define the common first coupling axis 30 about which the corresponding proximal secondary links 15a of the proximal pairs 14a thereof of the respective scissors mechanisms 7 are pivotally coupled to the main support element 3.

The other one of the proximal scissors links 15a of each proximal pair 14a thereof is slideably and pivotally coupled to the main support element 3 in the corresponding guide channel 33 in the adjacent side plate 40 of the main support element 3. A slider block 75 is slideable upwardly and downwardly in each of the guide channels 33. The proximal upper secondary pivot pins 20a of the corresponding proximal scissors links 15a of the proximal pairs 14a thereof are pivotally engaged in the respective slider blocks 75 in the guide channels 33 of the main support element 3. Accordingly, as the scissors mechanisms 7 are being urged from the first state to the second state, the slider blocks 75 with the proximal upper secondary pivot pins 20a slide downwardly in the guide channels 33 with the proximal upper secondary pivot pins 20a pivoting in the slider blocks 75. On the scissors mechanisms 7 being urged from the second state to the first state, the slider blocks 75 with the proximal upper secondary pivot pins 20a slide upwardly in the guide channels 33 with the proximal upper secondary pivot pins 20a pivoting in the slider blocks 75.

Turning now to the operation of the scissors mechanisms 7 from the first state to the second state, a pair of urging means, in this embodiment of the invention a pair of main double acting hydraulic rams 76 are operably coupled between the respective scissors mechanisms 7 and the main support element 3 on respective opposite sides thereof for urging the scissors mechanisms 7 between the first and second states. Each main ram 76 comprises a cylinder 77 which is pivotally coupled to the corresponding side plate 40 of the main support element 3 by a mounting bracket 78 secured to the corresponding side plate 40. A piston rod 79 extending from the cylinder 77 of each main ram 76 is pivotally coupled by a coupling pivot pin 80 to the proximal scissors link 15a which is pivotally coupled to the main support element 3. On extension of the main rams 76, the scissors mechanisms 7 are extended from the first state to the second state, and on retraction of the main rams 76, the scissors mechanisms 7 are operated from the second state to the first state. Turning now to the coupling of the proximal most platform segment 9a to the main support element 3, the proximal platform segment 9a is pivotally coupled to the main support element 3 by the lower proximal pivot pins 72 about the first coupling axis 30. A pair of carrier arms 81 are pivotally carried on lower proximal pivot pins 72 and extend from the lower proximal pivot pins 72 to the proximal platform segment 9a. A cross-member 82 extends transversely between and is welded to the carrier arms 81 adjacent the distal ends thereof. The proximal end 35 of the proximal platform segment 9a is secured to the carrier arms 81 adjacent the distal ends thereof and to the cross-member 82 by welding, so that the proximal platform segment 9a is pivotal about the first coupling axis 30 defined by the proximal lower pivot pins 72 between the rest state and the operational state. The distal end 37 of the proximal platform 9a in the operational state is supported on the proximal end 35 ofthe next adjacent platform segment 9.

Turning now to the operation ofthe distal most platform segment 9b between the ramp forming state and the rest state, the distal most platform segment 9b is pivotally coupled adjacent its proximal end 35 to the distal most lower pivot shaft 21 b in a similar manner as the distal most platform segment 9b is pivotally coupled to the distal most lower pivot shaft 21 b ofthe hand truck 1. However, instead ofthe distal most platform segment 9b being urgeable from the ramp forming state to the rest state and being latched in the rest state by a latching member, in this embodiment ofthe invention, the first latching means is provided by a pair of double acting hydraulic latching rams 83, which are coupled to one ofthe distal most scissors links 15b ofthe distal most pairs 14b thereof of the respective scissors mechanisms 7. Each latching ram 83 comprises a cylinder 84 which is pivotally coupled to the corresponding one ofthe distal most scissors links 15b ofthe distal most pair 14b thereof. A piston rod 85 extends from each cylinder 84 and is pivotally connected to a corresponding carrier pin 87 extending transversely from the corresponding side ofthe distal most platform segment 9b. The carrier pins 87 are rigidly secured to the distal most platform segment 9b and extend transversely sidewardly from the distal most platform segment 9b on respective opposite sides thereof.

The latching rams 83 are configured so that when the scissors mechanisms 7 are in the first state and the latching rams 83 are in a retracted state with the piston rods 85 retracted into the cylinders 84, the latching rams 83 retain the distal most platform segment 9b in the rest state extending substantially parallel to the other platform segments 9 in the rest state. When the scissors mechanisms 7 are in the second state, and the piston rods 85 ofthe latching rams 83 are in the extended state extending outwardly from the cylinders 84 thereof, the distal most platform segment 9b is urged into the ramp forming state. Additionally, when the scissors mechanisms 7 are in the second state and when the latching rams 83 are retracted with the piston rods 85 retracted into the cylinders 84 thereof, the latching rams 83 retain the distal most platform segment 9b in the retaining state similar to that illustrated in Fig. 4 of the hand truck 1 described with reference to Figs. 1 to 11 for retaining the wheelie bins on the platform 8.

Turning now to the steering of the hand truck 70, the proximal ground engaging wheels 5 are driven and are steerable, and are mounted on king pins 48 by carrier brackets 46 in a substantially similar manner as the proximal ground engaging wheels 5 are mounted to the king pins 48 of the hand truck 1. In this embodiment of the invention the steering of the proximal ground engaging wheels 5 by the steering handle 51 is carried out through a belt transmission system 86. The king pins 48 in the hand truck 70 are also rotatably mounted in bearings 49 in the lower plate member 41 , and terminate at their respective upper ends 88 in secondary belt pulley wheels 89 of the belt transmission system 86. The steering handle 51 extends radially from a steering shaft 90 which is rotatably mounted in bearings 91 and 92 in the lower plate member 41 and the upper plate member 42, respectively. A main belt pulley wheel 93 of the belt transmission system 86 is mounted fast on the steering shaft 90 and is engagable with a transmission belt 94 which extends around the secondary belt pulley wheel 89. Adjustable tensioning pulley wheels 95 of the belt transmission system 86 rotatably mounted on carrier shafts 96 extending upwardly from adjustable mounting brackets 97, which in turn are adjustably mounted on the lower plate member 41 , are provided for adjusting the tension in the transmission belt 94. Accordingly, the proximal ground engaging wheels 5 are steered through the belt transmission system 86 by pivoting the steering handle 51 in the directions of the arrows C and D.

Although not illustrated in Figs. 12 and 13 the steering handle 51 terminates in hand grip elements, similar to the hand grip elements 59, and control switches, similar to the control switches 60 are provided on the hand grip elements for operating the hand truck 70. An electrical battery 98 is carried on a carrier tray 99 which is carried on support brackets 100 extending downwardly from the lower plate member 41. An hydraulic power pack 101 is mounted on the carrier tray 99 for providing hydraulic power for operating the main rams 76 and the latching rams 83. In this embodiment of the invention the hydraulic power pack 101 is pressurised by an electrically powered pump (not shown) which is powered electrically by the battery 98. The battery 98 also provides power for powering the electric motors 45 for driving the proximal ground engaging wheels 5.

Otherwise, the hand truck 70 and its operation is similar to that already described with reference to the hand truck 1.

While the extendable support means has been described as comprising a pair of scissors mechanisms, it is envisaged that in some embodiments of the invention it may be possible to provide the extendable support means as a single scissors mechanism. It will also be appreciated that other suitable extendable support means could be provided instead of one or a pair of scissors mechanisms. For example, it is envisaged in some embodiments of the invention that the extendable support means may be provided by one or more telescoping members which would be telescopable from a first state to a second extended state in a similar manner as the scissors mechanisms are extendable from the first state to the second state.

While the scissors mechanisms have been described as being operable between the first and second states by urging means, for example, hydraulic rams or linear motors, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that any other suitable urging means may be provided. Indeed, it is envisaged that in some embodiments of the invention, the linkage mechanisms may be configured to be hand operated between the first and second states thereof.

It will also be appreciated that while it is preferable, it is not essential that a pair of proximal ground engaging wheels may be provided, in some embodiments of the invention it is envisaged that a single proximal ground engaging wheel would be sufficient. Similarly, it will be appreciated that instead of a pair of distal ground engaging wheels, a single distal ground engaging wheel may be provided. However, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that the hand truck 1 would have to be provided with at least three ground engaging wheels which could be provided as a single proximal ground engaging wheel and a pair of distal ground engaging wheels, or a pair of proximal ground engaging wheels and a single distal ground engaging wheel.

It is also envisaged that while it is desirable, it is not essential that any of the ground engaging wheels need be driven.

Claims

1. A hand operated truck comprising a main support element, an extendable support means connected to the main support element and extendable from a first state adjacent the main support element with the hand operated truck in a stowable state to a second state extended and projecting from the main support element in a direction parallel to the direction of normal forward motion of the truck with the truck in a transport state, and a platform comprising a plurality of platform segments configurable in a rest state adjacent the main support element with the extendable support means in the first state, and in an operational state supported on the extendable support means in the second state forming an elongated platform extending from the main support element in the direction parallel to the direction of normal forward motion of the truck.

2. A hand operated truck as claimed in Claim 1 in which the platform is coupled to the extendable support means.

3. A hand operated truck as claimed in Claim 1 or 2 in which the extendable support means comprises at least one scissors mechanism.

4. A hand operated truck as claimed in Claim 3 in which two spaced apart scissors mechanisms are located on respective opposite sides of the platform.

5. A hand operated truck as claimed in Claim 3 or 4 in which each scissors mechanism comprises a plurality of pairs of scissors links, the scissors links of each pair thereof being pivotally connected to each other intermediate their respective ends about a main pivot axis.

6. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 5 in which the main pivot axes of the respective pairs of the scissors links extend parallel to each other.

7. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 6 in which the main pivot axes of the respective pairs of the scissors links extend transversely relative to the direction of normal forward motion of the truck.

8. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 7 in which each pair of the scissors links adjacent the ends thereof of each scissors mechanism is pivotally connected to an adjacent pair of the scissors links of that scissors mechanism adjacent the corresponding ends thereof.

9. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 8 in which each pair of the scissors links is pivotally connected to the adjacent pair of the scissors links about respective secondary pivot axes.

10. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 9 in which the secondary pivot axes about which the adjacent pairs of the scissors links are pivotally connected together extend parallel to each other.

11. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 10 in which the secondary pivot axes about which the adjacent pairs of the scissors links are pivotally connected together extend parallel to the main pivot axes.

12. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 11 in which the main pivot axes of the respective pairs of the scissors links extend substantially horizontally.

13. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 12 in which the main pivot axes of the pairs of the scissors links of the respective scissors mechanisms extend parallel to each other.

14. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 13 in which the main pivot axes of the pairs of the scissors links of the respective scissors mechanisms corresponding to each other coincide with each other.

15 A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 14 in which the secondary pivot axes of the pairs of the scissors links of the respective scissors mechanisms corresponding to each other coincide with each other.

16. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 15 in which the respective scissors mechanisms are configured so that one of the secondary pivot axes about which each pair of the scissors links is pivotally connected to an adjacent pair of the scissors links is located above the corresponding other one of the secondary pivot axes.

17. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 16 in which the respective ones of the secondary pivot axes about which each pair of the scissors links is pivotally connected to an adjacent pair of the scissors links lie in a substantially vertically extending plane.

18. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 17 in which the lower secondary pivot axes of the respective corresponding pairs of the scissors links of the respective scissors mechanisms are defined by respective support shafts joining the corresponding pairs of the scissors links of the respective scissors mechanisms and pivotally coupling the adjacent pivot links of the adjacent pairs thereof together.

19. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 18 in which each platform segment is pivotally connected to a corresponding one of the scissors links of a corresponding pair thereof.

20. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 19 in which each platform segment is pivotally connected to the corresponding one of the scissors links of the corresponding pair thereof about one of the primary and secondary pivot axes of that pair of the scissors links.

21. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 20 in which each platform segment is pivotally connected to the corresponding one of the scissors links of the corresponding pair thereof about one of the secondary pivot axes of scissors links of the pair thereof.

22. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 21 in which each platform segment is pivotally connected to the corresponding one of the scissors link of the corresponding pair thereof about the lower secondary pivot axis of the corresponding pair of the scissors links.

23. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 22 in which each platform segment is pivotally connected to the corresponding one of the scissors link of the corresponding pair thereof adjacent a proximal end of the platform segment.

24. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 23 in which a distal end of each platform segment is supported on the proximal end of the adjacent platform segment when the linkage mechanism is in the second state.

25. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 24 in which the distal end of each platform segment is supported on the proximal end of the adjacent distal platform segment when the linkage mechanism is in the second state.

26. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 25 in which each platform segment is pivotally mounted on the support shaft of the corresponding one of the scissors links of the corresponding pair thereof.

27. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 26 in which the distal end of each platform segment overlaps a proximal portion of the adjacent distal platform segment when the scissors mechanism is in the second state.

28. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 27 in which the platform segments are retained substantially side-by-side and substantially parallel to each other in the rest state.

29. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 28 in which the distal most one of the platform segments is pivotal from the rest state to a ramp forming state for forming a ramp to the platform.

30. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 29 in which a first latching means is provided for retaining the distal most platform segment in the rest state.

31. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 30 in which each scissors mechanism is coupled to the main support element by the scissors links of the proximal pair thereof.

32. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 31 in which one of the proximal scissors links of the proximal pair thereof of each scissors mechanism is pivotally coupled to the main support element about a first coupling pivot axis, and the other one of the proximal scissors link of the proximal pair thereof is slideably coupled to the main support element.

33. A hand operated truck as claimed in Claim 32 in which the first coupling pivot axis coincides with the proximal most one of the lower secondary pivot axes of each scissors mechanism.

34. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 33 in which the proximal scissors link of the proximal pair thereof which is slideably coupled to the main support element is slideable relative to the main support element in a generally upwardly/downwardly direction.

35. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 34 in which the proximal scissors link of the proximal pair thereof which is slideably coupled to the main support element is pivotal relative to the main support element about the second coupling pivot axis.

36. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 35 in which the proximal scissors link of the proximal pair thereof of each scissors mechanism, which is only pivotally coupled to the main support element, is pivotally coupled to the main support element at a level below the level at which the proximal scissors link of the proximal pair thereof, which is slideably coupled to the main support element, is slideably coupled to the main support element.

37. A hand operated truck as claimed in any preceding claim in which an urging means is provided for operating the extendable support means between the first state and the second state.

38. A hand operated truck as claimed in Claim 37 in which the urging means is operably coupled between the main support means and the extendable support means.

39. A hand operated truck as claimed in Claim 37 or 38 in which the urging means comprises one of a linear motor and a ram.

40. A hand operated truck as claimed in any preceding claim in which a second latching means is provided for retaining the extendable support means in the first state.

41. A hand operated truck as claimed in Claim 40 in which the urging means is configured to act as the second latching means.

42. A hand operated truck as claimed in any preceding claim in which the truck comprises at least three ground engaging wheels.

43. A hand operated truck as claimed in Claim 42 in which at least one of the at least three ground engaging wheels comprises a proximal ground engaging wheel.

44. A hand operated truck as claimed in Claim 42 or 43 in which the at least one proximal ground engaging wheel is carried on the main support element.

45. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 42 to 44 in which the at least one proximal ground engaging wheel is rotatably carried on the main support element.

46. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 42 to 45 in which the at least one proximal ground engaging wheel is a steerable ground engaging wheel.

47. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 42 to 46 in which the at least one proximal ground engaging wheel comprises a driven wheel.

48. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 42 to 47 in which the at least one proximal ground engaging wheel is driven by a motor.

49. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 42 to 48 in which the at least one proximal ground engaging wheel is driven by an electrically powered motor.

50. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 42 to 49 in which the electrically powered motor is battery powered.

51. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 42 to 50 in which a pair of the proximal ground engaging wheels are carried spaced apart on the main support element.

52. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 42 to 51 in which at least one of the at least three ground engaging wheels comprises a distal ground engaging wheel.

53. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 42 to 52 in which the at least one distal ground engaging wheel is carried adjacent a distal end of the extendable support means.

54. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 42 to 53 in which the at least one distal ground engaging wheel is rotatably carried on the extendable support means.

55. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 42 to 54 in which a pair of spaced apart distal ground engaging wheels are carried on the extendable support means.

56. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 42 to 55 in which the at least one distal ground engaging wheel is rotatably carried on the distal most one of the support shafts.

57. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 42 to 56 in which a steering handle extends from the main support element, the steering handle being operably coupled to the at least one proximal ground engaging wheel for steering thereof.

58. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 42 to 57 in which a control means is provided for controlling the operation of the motor of the at least one proximal ground engaging wheel.

59. A hand operated truck as claimed in Claim 58 in which the control means is located on the steering handle.

60. A hand operated truck as claimed in any preceding claim in which the truck in the stowable state is of size for stowing in a road vehicle.

61. A hand operated truck as claimed in Claim 60 in which the truck in the stowable state is of size for stowing in one of a chassis and beneath a chassis of the road vehicle.

62. A hand operated truck as claimed in Claim 60 or 61 in which the truck in the stowable state is of size for stowing in a refuse collection vehicle.

63. A hand operated truck as claimed in any of Claims 60 to 62 in which the truck in the stowable state is of size for stowing in a location in or beneath the chassis of a refuse collection vehicle.

64. A hand operated truck as claimed in any preceding claim in which the platform in the operational state is configured to support at least one industrial size wheelie bin.

65. A hand operated truck as claimed in any preceding claim in which the platform in the operational state is configured to support a plurality of industrial size wheelie bins simultaneously.

66. A hand operated truck as claimed in any preceding claim in which the platform in the operational state is configured to support at least three wheelie bins simultaneously.

67. A hand operated truck as claimed in any preceding claim in which the platform in the operational state is configured to support at least six wheelie bins simultaneously.

68. A hand operated truck as claimed in any preceding claim in which the platform in the operational state is of width substantially similar to the width of an industrial size wheelie bin.

69. A hand operated truck as claimed in any preceding claim in which the platform is of width to permit wheeling of the wheelie bins along the platform between the distal and proximal ends thereof.