US3858688A

US3858688A - Self-contained mobile extendable tower

Info

Publication number: US3858688A
Application number: US261081A
Authority: US
Inventors: George W Galloway
Original assignee: G W GALLOWAY CO
Current assignee: GALLOWAY Inc 290 SOUTH ARLINGTON AVENUE RENO NEVADA A CORP OF NEVADA
Priority date: 1972-03-10
Filing date: 1972-06-08
Publication date: 1975-01-07
Anticipated expiration: 1992-01-07

Abstract

A self-contained mobile extendable tower for transferring loads, including workmen, between ground and higher levels utilizing a plurality of multiple stage mast assemblies maintained accurately synchronized despite non-uniform load distribution by simple electrical sensor means carried by the load platform. The platform is suspended from yoke means projecting upwardly from the platform and having its upper ends connected to the last stage of the respective mast assemblies. A common prime mover, such as an internal combustion engine or an electric motor, is coupled by a reversible transmission to separate reversible pumps supplying a respective one of the masts with pressurized fluid. The chassis on which the tower is supported is self-propelled and steerable from a control station on the load platform.

Description

limited tates Patent 1191 Galloway SELF-CONTAINED MOBILE EXTENDABLE TOWER [75] Inventor: George W. Galloway, Arcadia, Calif.

[73] Assignee: G. W. Galloway Company, Los

Angeles, Calif.

[22] Filed: June 8, 11972 [21] Appl. No.: 261,081

Related [1.8. Application Data [63] Continuation-impart of Ser. No. 233,613, March 10,

1972, abandoned.

182/141, 112, 13, 19, 14; 180/63; 254/89 R, 89 H, 93 R, 93 L; 60/97 E; 91/171, 189, 412

Primary Examiner-Evon C. Blunk Assistant Examiner-James L. Rowland Attorney, Agent, or FirmSellers and Brace [57] ABSTRACT A self-contained mobile extendable tower for transferring loads, including workmen, between ground and higher levels utilizing a plurality of multiple stage mast assemblies maintained accurately synchronized despite non-uniform load distribution by simple electri- [56] References Cited cal sensor means carried by the load platform. The platform is suspended from yoke means projecting up- UNITED STATES PATENTS wardly from the platform and having its upper ends 210811248 5/1937 p y 132/141 X connected to the last stage of the respective mast as 23965 4/1940 Wagner et 182/63 X semblies. A common prime mover, such as an internal i g2 combustion engine or an electric motor, is coupled by 289I3S3 6/1959 f fig'g 'g 182/13 X a reversible transmission to separate reversible pumps 2 970 667 2/1961 Bercaw 8.1:: II: 182/13 x Supplying a respective one of the masts with 3:095:945 7/1963 Mitchel] I I I 182/14 ized fluid. The chassis on which the tower is supported 3,153,911 10/1964 Mark et. al..... 180/63 X is self-propelled and steerable from a control station 3,191,717 6/1965 Hiyama 1. 182/141 X on the load platform. 3,265,357 8/1966 Schilling 254/89 H 3,289,868 12/1966 M11161 254/89 11 x 34 Claims, 10 Drawmg Flames [7 i m l PATENTEDJA'N 1191s SHEET 10F 5 PATENTEI] JAN 7 I975 SHEET 8 OF 5 PATENTEDJA v sum 30F s FIG- 7 PATENTEB T1975 3,858.688

SHEET MP 5 SELF-CONTAINED MGlBILlE EXTENDABLE TOWER This is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 233,613, filed Mar. 10, 1972, now abandoned.

This invention relates to hydraulically extendable towers, and more particularly to a self-contained mobile extendable tower apparatus utilizing a plurality of multistage telescopic masts to support the load platform and characterized by its overall simplicity, the provision of high precision automatic means for maintaining the platform level despite non-uniform distribution of the load, and unidirectional prime mover means equipped to drive hydraulic fluid pumps in either direction depending on the desired direction of load movement.

There have been many proposals heretofore to pro vide load lifting devices utilizing two or more masts operating in parallel to transfer loads between different elevations. These various proposals have been beset by many problems including the highly vexatious problems of constraining the mast systems to operate in synchronism, particularly under unequal load distribution conditions and other variables well known to those experienced in the art. These proposals have included the expedient of using identical mast assemblies supplied with pressurized fluid by identical pumps driven from a common motor. Under ideal conditions such a system provides reasonably satisfactory results. However, a system of this type is highly sensitive to leakage occurring in one or more of the fluid circuits and unavoidably occurring after a period of use. Any leakage is greatly aggravated by variations in load distribution on the platform. Furthermore, either non-uniform loading or leakage is accumulative during repeated cycling with well known serious consequences.

Other proposals for synchronizing and correcting for out of phase operation of two or more masts for various reasons utilize synchronizing control expedients of a wide variety including slave cylinder sensing devices, cable systems interconnecting the upper ends of each mast with servo valve mechanisms, and various level sensing mechanical linkages connected to fluid control valves for each mast. These various systems are subject to many shortcomings including their characteristic complexity, the use of many components subject to to]- erance variations, wear and damage, as well as their high initial and maintenance costs and the need for skilled technicians to maintain and service them.

In view of the foregoing and other shortcomings and disadvantages characteristic of previously designed hydraulic lifting apparatus, it is a primary object of the present invention to provide a greatly improved mobile extendable tower apparatus functioning in a simple highly reliable foolproof manner avoiding the aforementioned and other disadvantages of prior constructions. In a typical embodiment, the lifting apparatus utilizes the frame of a low height chassis to rigidly support a plurality of multistage masts cooperating to support a work platform from their upper ends. Preferably, the platform is suspended by yoke means sized to telescopically embrace the larger stage of each mast. These yokes project upwardly from the opposite ends of the platform and, in a preferred arrangement, are substantially as long as the individual stages of the mast thereby permitting the platform to be lowered close to ground level when the masts are fully retracted. The self-propelled chassis includes a complete selfcontained power system for the chassis as well as for the hydraulic system. The latter utilizes a single prime mover having a reversible drive to identical positive displacement pumps each connected to a respective one of the masts and including automatic level control means effective to maintain the platform level under uniformly distributed loading condition. Since these ideal conditions seldom prevail in practice, the invention tower includes automatic precision synchronizing means for maintaining the platform level despite unequal load distribution conditions. This self-levelling and synchronizing means typically comprises a pair of sensitive switches responsive to tilting of the platform in either direction from the horizontal to bleed fluid from the highest mast. As the platform is restored to horizontal, fluid bleeding is discontinued. The electrical tilt sensor comprises a pair of precision switches which are connected to simple on-off solenoid bleed valves.

The tower chassis may be propelled forwardly and rearwardly by separate hydraulic motors connected to each of its rear wheels and may be steered by a hydraulic cylinder connected to the steering control linkage for the front wheels. The chassis can be propelled and steered at all times except when the tower assembly is being raised or lowered. In the second embodiment a single motor is connected to a pair of chassis wheels via a differential unit. In one illustrative embodiment, the two pumps serving the tower masts are driven by a reversible d.c. motor powered by batteries carried on the chassis, whereas in a second illustrative embodiment the pumps are driven by an internal combustion engine or a direct current motor coupled to the pumps by the reversible transmission means. All components for the tower as well as the chassis are controllable by a control station located on the platform and suitably connected to the chassis by a multiple conductor electrical cable and/or hydraulic fluid lines interconnecting slave motors.

In an alternate control system, the electrical tilt sensor comprises a pair of precision switches which are connected to simple on-off solenoid bleed valves located at the base of the tower. This system is electrically energized through the switch on the platform which is turned on when the reversing control lever of the transmission unit is moved from the neutral position into either the up or the down position. A second set of tilt sensing switches on the column is used for emergency lowering of the platform when the electric motor or internal combustion engine is inoperable for any reason. These switches are activated from the platform upon closing the emergency down switch and thereby open both balancing solenoid valves normally operated as bleed valves. However, should one mast lower faster than the other the solenoid valve for that column closes until the platform is level and then opens.

It is therefore a primary object of the invention to provide an improved rugged and highly reliable selfpropelled self-contained mobile tower assembly.

Another object of the invention is the provision of a high capacity extendable mast assembly utilizing a plurality of multistage masts and having improved simplified means for maintaining the load platform level despite non-uniform load distribution.

Another object of the invention is the provision of an extendable tower apparatus utilizing a pair of multistage supporting masts having improved means for maintaining the platform level and wherein the platform proper is suspended from yoke means projecting upwardly from the opposite ends of the platform.

Another object of the invention is the provision of a self-powered lifting apparatus utilizing a plurality of multistage masts powered by unidirectional prime mover means coupled to a separate fluid pump for each mast through reversible transmission means.

Another object of the invention is the provision of lifting apparatus employing a plurality of multistage masts arranged in parallel and powered by unidirectional prime mover means for supplying or releasing equal quantities fo fluid to and from the masts, depending on the direction of mast movement, via separate positive displacement pumps selectively driven in either direction by reversible transmission means coupling said pumps to the prime mover means.

Another object of the invention is the provision of a mobile large capacity multi-mast load lifting apparatus powered entirely from an on-board internal combustion engine driving separate synchronized pumps for each mast through a single reversible power transmission unit and operable to lock the load at any selected level by placing the power transmission unit in neutral.

Another object of the invention is the provision of a multi-mast lifting apparatus equipped with emergency control means for lowering the load platform by simultaneously bleeding fluid from both masts through identical bleed ports and including means for automatically closing either bleed port so long as the associated mast is lower than the other thereby to maintain the load platform substantially level during emergency lowering conditions.

Another object of the invention is the provision of lifting apparatus utilizing a plurality of telescopic masts and electrical sensor means for detecting and compensating for non-uniform operation of the masts.

Another object of the invention is the provision of an extendable tower supported by a plurality of multistage masts movable in either direction by pressurized fluid flowing through reversible positive displacement pumps coupled to reversible drive means and driven by a common prime mover.

Another object of the invention is the provision of an automatic braking system for the tower chassis and a smooth acceleration and deceleration drive to the tower chassis.

These and other more specific objects will appear upon reading the following specification and claims and upon considering in connection therewith the attached drawing to which they relate.

Referring now to the drawing in which a preferred embodiment of the invention is illustrated:

FIG. 1 is a top plan view of one illustrative embodiment of the invention mobile lifting apparatus;

FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of FIG. 1 showing the platform partially extended in dot and dash lines and fully retracted in full lines;

FIG. 3 is a fragmentary view, partially in section, of the steering mechanism showing the tongue in full lines in its lowered hauling position and locked in an elevated non-hauling position in dot and dash lines;

FIG. 4 is a top plan view on an enlarged scale of the platform tilt sensor device;

FIG. 5 is a fragmentary vertical sectional view taken along line 5-5 on FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a view similar to FIG. 5 but taken along line 66 on FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the hydraulic system and of the controls for the chassis as well as for operating the tower assembly;

FIG. 8 is a top plan view of a second illustrative embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 9 is a side elevational view of FIG. 8 corresponding to the showing in FIG. 2; and

FIG. 10 is a schematic view of the hydraulic system and of the controls for the chassis and tower assembly of the second embodiment.

FIRST EMBODIMENT Referring initially and more particularly to FIGS. 1 and 2, a first embodiment of the invention lifting apparatus, designated generally 10, is shown rigidly supported on a chassis 11 having rear wheels 12, steerable front wheels 13 and a draft tongue 14. The rigid main frame 15 of the chassis serves additionally as the tower base frame to which there is rigidly secured a pair of identical multistage

hydraulic mast cylinders

17,18. The larger diameter

lower stages

19,20 of this mast assembly are rigidly secured to chassis frame 15 by suitable means including bracing brackets 21.

The load carrying platform 22 is constructed of structural members and preferably includes a suitable guard railing 23. Platform 22 is preferably suspended from the upper ends of the smallest diameter stages of the mast by suitable yoke means. As herein shown, this yoke comprises a pair of

similar tubes

26,27 having their closed upper ends secured to the upper end of mast stages 24,25 and their lower ends rigidly anchored to platform 22 as by base plates 28 (FIG. 1).

Referring more particularly to FIG. 1, it is pointed out that chassis 11 may be towed by the hauling tongue 14 which is pivotally connected to the forward end of the chassis frame by pin 31. Steering links 32 interconnect the tongue to steering knuckles 33 fixed to pivotable stub axles for front wheels 13. When the chassis is not being towed tongue 14 may be pivoted upwardly about hinge pin 34 (FIG. 3) and lashed in this retracted position by latch pin 36 having its free end seatable in notch 37. A double action hydraulic cylinder 40 is employed to steer front wheels 13, it being observed from FIG. 1 that one end of this cylinder is pivotally connected to the chassis frame at 41 and that the free end of its piston rod is connected to the tongue at 42.

The forward end of tongue 14 may include an automatic brake control device 45 for the brakes of rear wheels 12. Device 45 includes a chamber charged with brake fluid 46 in communication through a flexible hose 47 with the wheel brake cylinders. So long as the tower is being hauled along the highway, piston 48 is held in its forward position wherein the brakes are released. However, if the hauling vehicle is braked then piston 48 shifts rearwardly under inertia forces and pressurizes fluid 46 to apply the brakes of the rear chassis wheels 12.

When the tower is not in a travel mode the brakes may be set by hand control lever 50 mounted on the side of the chassis frame and connected to the wheel brakes by an operating linkage 51 of any suitable construction. While in use, the tower assembly is firmly stabilized by hand operated out rigger screws 53 (FIGS. 1 and 2). The threaded shanks of these screws are mounted in threaded bores of brackets 54- and are operated by hand cranks 55.

Rear wheels 12, as herein shown, are driven by reversible hydraulic motors 58 rigidly secured to the chassis frame and connected to the rear wheels by a suitable normally engaged but releasable clutch 59 and a chain drive 60.

Referring now to FIG. 7, there will be described the hydraulic system and the controls therefor. As there shown the power supply comprises six heavy duty storage batteries 62. These batteries provide all power requirements including those of the reversible prime mover, such as motor 65, coupled through the belt drive 66 to a common shaft 67 driving the identical

positive displacement pumps

68,69. The power supply to prime mover motor 65 is controlled by a pair of

switches

70,86 normally positioned as shown to complete a power supply circuit to the

chassis drive motors

59,59 and to steering motor 40 provided the key operated switch 105 is closed.

Pumps

68 and 69 are connected to the hydraulic fluid reservoir 75 by conduit 76 leading into each pump and includes a filter 77 and a normally closed check valve '78. The other side of each of the

pumps

68,69 is connected to a respective one of the

mast assemblies

17,18 by conduits 79,811. Each of these conduits includes a normally closed pressure relief valve 81 discharging back to the fluid reservoir in conventional manner in the event the pressure in the mast exceeds a predetermined safe value. A similar pressure relief valve 82 is shown connected to the supply side of

pumps

68,69 and opens if the pressure in line 76 becomes excessive during retraction of the platform.

During lowering of the platform pumps 68,69 are operated in the reverse direction by the reversible prime mover 65, it being understood that the normally closed pilot operated solenoid valve 85 is first energized by closing switch 86 to energize relay 65b so that the fluid discharging from

pumps

68,69 then passes through

conduits

76,87, valve 85 and thence along conduit 88 back to reservoir 75.

The electrical level sensor, designated generally 90, for maintaining platform 22 level even though the load is distributed in a grossly non-unifrom manner, will now be described with reference to FIGS. 1 7. As there shown, the top of the last stage 24 of the multistage mast 17 is provided with a cap plate 91 supporting a pair of

upright studs

92,92 projecting loosely through openings in a cap plate 93 for the tubular yoke 26. Keeper nuts 941 are threaded to the upper ends of studs 92 but do not bear against plate 93. A pair of fulcrum cylinders 96 are fixed to plate 91 with their upper side bearing against the underside of the yoke plate 93. Keeper bars 94 (FIG. 5) are welded to plate 93 along either side of the fulcrum cylinders 96 and cooperate therewith in holding the parts properly centered while leaving the platform and yoke tube 26 free to pivot about the upper edge of cylinders 96, when it will be understood extend crosswise of one end of the platform 22. The described pivoting connection between the top mast 17 and one end of the platform, though beneficial, is not essential. Thus, satisfactory results are achieved if fulcrum cylinders 96 are replaced with a low height strip of metal having its upper and lower edges welded to

plates

91 and 93.

The electrical sensor proper comprises a pair of normally open micro switches 199a and 1110b rigidly secured to plate 93 by brackets 101. The actuating buttons or plungers 102 of each of the switches project through openings in plate 93 and bear lightly against the broad head of respective adjustable screws 103 carried by plate 91 of mast stage 24. So long as the platform is level both switches a and 10019 will be open as shown in FIG. 7.

The two level sensing switches 100a,1lll)b are connected in circuit with respective actuating solenoids of normally closed pilot operated fluid venting valves and 111. The inlet sides of these valves are connected to

mast

17 and 18 and their discharge sides lead back to fluid reservoir 75. Should the one or the other of the

masts

17,18 be higher than the others, it will be understood that the associated one of the microswitches 190a or 1611b will close and energize one of the venting valves 110 or 111 and release fluid from that mast until the platform is level at which time the closed sensing switches will open and de-energize the activated venting valve.

The hydraulic system for the described tower sup porting chassis includes a motor 116 driving a pump 117 whenever one or both of switches and 128 are closed to propel and/or steer the chassis. Pump 117 then provides pressurized fluid from tank 75 which flows through the distributing line 118 to the four way tandem-center valves 119 and 1211. If these valves are deactivated then their respective spools are in a neutral position and the pressurized fluid supply by pump 117 simply flows through each valve and thence back to the reservoir.

Four way valve 119 controls the flow of fluid to the

hydraulic motors

59,59 employed to propel the tower via the

rear carriage wheels

12,12, the direction of propulsion depending upon whether valve 119 is energized to the right or to the left. Since it is highly undesirable to start or stop the chassis abruptly, each supply line leading to motors 59 preferably includes an accumulator 122,123 operating in known manner to absorb shocks incident to abrupt operation of valve 119 thereby providing smooth acceleration and deceleration of the chassis. Propulsion of the chassis is controlled by switch 125 normally biased to its open position. If this is pivoted forwardly, the chassis is propelled in this direction, whereas it is propelled rearwardly if the switch is pivoted rearwardly.

Valve 126 controls the steering cylinder 40 for the

front carriage wheels

13,13. Normally this valve is in its neutral position but if the normally open switch 128 closed to the right, the front wheels steer to the right whereas if it is closed to the left these wheels steer to the left. A normally closed pressure relief valve 130 is connected to line 118 and opens to relieve pressure in that line if for any reason the fluid pressure becomes excessive.

OPERATION OF FIRST EMBODIMENT The operation of the described mast assembly will be quite apparent from the foregoing description of its components. Let it be assumed that a load is in position on platfonn 22 for transfer from near ground level to an elevated height such as 30 feet. The operator, standing at control station 1 16 at the forward end of the tower, first operates the appropriate control buttons to move tower 10 to a desired position. For example, the key operated switch 105 is closed to supply power to the up and down control switches 76,86, respectively, as well as to the chassis power control switches 125,128.

Assuming the operator wishes to move the tower to a particular plane for use he pivots the operating handle of toggle switch 125 forward thereby energizing the power control relay 116a or motor 116 of pump 117 and the forward coil of four-way valve 119 to supply pressurized fluid to the drive motors 59. While holding switch 125 closed in this forward position, the operator may wish to steer the chassis to the right or the left. This is accomplished by pivoting switch 128 to the right or left again energizing motor control relay 116a and the respective ones of the control coils of four-way valve 120 to supply fluid to the steering motor 40. Either one or both of

switches

125 and 128 are held closed in either direction so long as the operator wishes to move and to steer the chassis. As soon as he releases his grip of the respective control handles, either or both switches move to their normal or open position.

Once the tower is in position the hand brake lever 50 is set and the stabilizing strut devices 53 are lowered firmly against the ground, or against levelling blocks if it is necessary to use such blocks to assure having platform 22 in a level position as it must be before raising it to an elevated position.

Raising a load present on platform 22 is accomplished by closing the up switch 70 and holding it closed against the pressure of the spring biasing the switch to its normal position illustrated in FIG. 7. So long as the switch is held depressed, its lower pair of contacts are held open thereby deactivating the power supply via conductor 135 to the chassis power units controlled by

switches

125 and 128. Accordingly it is impossible for the operator to move the chassis so long as he is endeavoring to operate the mast assembly in either direction. Closing switch 70 supplies power via conductor 136 to the platform level sensor 90 as well as to the coil of the up power relay 65a. Energization of relay 65a closes the upper pair of contacts thereby supplying power via lead 138 to drive motor 65 and pumps 68 and 69 in a direction to elevate the platform. Equal volumes of pressurized fluids are then withdrawn from tank 75 by these pumps, the fluid flowing upwardly through filter 77, past check valve 78, through each of the pumps and via

conduits

79,80 into the lower ends of each of the

masts

17,18.

If the load is unevenly distributed on the platform, it is likely that the less heavily loaded mast will extend faster than the other one. Should this occur, the resulting tilting of the platform from a horizontal plane is immediately sensed by one of the levelling switches 100a or 100b. If mast 17 is less heavily loaded, then switch 100a will close briefly, thereby energizing venting valve 110 to release a portion of the fluid flowing to mast l7 and allowing such vented fluid to return to the reservoir. Desirably only a small portion of the fluid flowing to the higher mast is released so that the platform continues to rise substantially at the same rate during the level compensating operation. As the platform approaches or reaches a level condition, switch 100a opens so that valve 110 immediately closes.

Should valve 110 overcompensate, then sensing switch closes to open valve 111 to vent fluid from mast 18. It will therefore be evident that the platform continues to rise and that any uneven extension of either mast is immediately sensed and corrected automatically and without attention from the operator.

Once the load is at a desired elevation, switch is opened by the operator and check valve 78 blocks all return flow thereby holding the platform rigidly and firmly in its elevated position.

To lower the platform, the operator holds the down" switch 86 closed thereby again discontinuing the power supply to the chassis propulsion components by opening the lower pair of contacts of this switch. Closing the upper pair of contacts of switch 86 resumes the supply of power to level sensor via conductor 136 and also supplies power to the down" control relay 65b thereby reversing the polarity of the power supply to motor 65 so that this motor now operates

pump

68,69 in the reverse direction to pump fluid out of

masts

17,18. At the same time power supply through the middle pair of contacts of switch 86 energizes solenoid valve 85 to open this valve to by-pass the fluid from each of the masts around check valve 78.

The energizing power supplied to relay 65b will also be observed as flowing through the normally closed safety switch 141. This switch is mounted on the chassis in the path of the platform and is spring biased to its closed position. However, if the operator holds the down control switch 86 closed for too long a period of time the platform will strike the control button of switch 141 and open the switch thereby discontinuing the supply of power to both pump motor 65 as well as to the normally closed valve 85. It will be recalled that this valve if open permits the fluid discharging from the mast by way of

pump

68,69 to flow downwardly through conduits 76, through the now open valve 85 and back to the reservoir via conduit 88 and filter 77.

If during lowering of the platform either mast retracts faster than the other the resulting non-level condition of the platform will again operate level control switches a and 10011 as necessary to bleed fluid from the higher one of the masts via valves or 111 until the platform 22 is restored to its level condition.

As will be apparent from the foregoing, the platform can be stopped at any level whereupon it is automatically locked in this position by the check valve 78. So long as the platform is stationary the power supply to the level sensor 90 is deactivated. Accordingly, the operating crew may move freely about the platform and may shift the load onto or off the platform without any possibility of the platform shifting because check valve 78 prevents the discharge of fluid from either mast and pumps 68,69 cooperate in preventing the transfer of fluid from one mast to the other.

SECOND EMBODIMENT Referring now to FIGS. 8-10 there is shown a second preferred embodiment of the load lifting apparatus and differing only in minor respects from the first described embodiment. Accordingly, the same or similar parts are designated by the same reference characters as in the first described embodiment but distinguished by the addition of a prime. A basic difference resides in the fact that the prime mover 65 comprises a unidirectional power unit such as an internal combustion engine or a direct current motor coupled to the identical hydraulic pump 68',69' by a reversible hydrostatic transmission of any ssuitable type. A particularly suitable reversible transmission unit sold under the tradename Marshallmatic Model 10 manufactured by the Eaton- Marshall Division of Eaton, Yale & Towne,lnc., Marshall, Michigan. The use of a unidirectional prime mover in combination with a reversible transmission eliminates the need for reversing switch control mechanism on the platform and permits the use of simple slave cylinder control in lieu thereof. Other changes to be described in greater detail include the provision of a belt takeoff from the prime mover to the hydraulic pump supplying fluid to the chassis power units as well as an improved emergency control accessory and a variation of the automatic level control mechanism. A typ ical operating arrangement utilizing an internal combustion engine as the prime mover will now be described.

It will be understood that the gasoline powered engine 65 is coupled directly to the reversible transmission unit 145 having its output coupled directly to a common shaft driving pumps 68,69. A power takeoff belt 66 located between the engine and transmission drives pump 117' and provides a supply of pressurized fluid for the power driving and steering components of the chassis so long as the prime mover is operating.

Transmission unit 145 is provided with a reversing control lever 146 shown in its neutral position and having an operating connection to the piston of a slave cylinder 147. The latter is connected in a closed fluid circuit 148 with a control cylinder 149 connected to a control lever 150. When lever 150 is pivoted to the right, lever 146 on the transmission is likewise pivoted to the right and transmission unit 145 is then operative to drive pumps 68',69 in a direction to supply equal quantities of pressurized fluid to masts 17',18 to elevate the load platform 22'.

Likewise if control lever 150 on the platform is shifted to the left as viewed in FIG. the transmission control lever 146 is pivoted in the same direction to its alternate position reversing the direction in which pumps 68 and 69' are driven. It will be understood that when control levers 146 and 150 are in neutral position an automatic check valve in the transmission unit blocks the circulation of fluid within the transmission means with the result that the transmission remains stationary and the platform is held firmly at any elevation occupied when the transmission was placed in neutral. This condition is also assured by check valve 78' in the fluid supply line leading to the inlets of pumps 68' and 69. The transmission also preferably includes an accumulator 152 connected to its internal fluid circuit and effective to absorb shockloads accompanying operation of control lever 146.

Referring to FIG. 9, it will be understood that the flexible hoses 148 interconnecting cylinders 147 and 1419, as well as all electric leads extending between the platform and the chassis are preferably enclosed in two or more protective housings or ducts 166 arranged end to end and movably interconnected by hinge means 167. Likewise one of their remote ends is hinged at 168 to the chassis and the other is hinged at 169 to the platform. It will therefore be appreciated that these hoses and electrical leads are fully protected at all times and that foolproof trouble free means is provided for extending and retracting the same as the platform rises and descends.

Engine 65 is provided with a starter motor 155 connected in circuit with a starter relay 156 which may be energized by a normally open manual switch 157 on the platform or a similar switch 158 at ground level. Likewise a magneto 159 for the engine may be shortcircuited to stop the engine from either stop switch 160 at ground level or a second switch 161 located at the control station on the platform.

The automatic self-levelling control for the platform is generally similar to that described for the first embodiment but differs in the provision of an extra pair of switches 1000 and d operatively associated respectively with

microswitch

100a and 10%. When the platform is in a

level condition switches

100a and 100b are open, whereas switches 100C and 100d are closed. Normally, switches l00c,100d remain inactive because the emergency switch 190 is open. The purpose of the emergency switch 190 is to permit the operator to lower the platform in an emergency even though the prime mover is disabled or inoperative for any reason.

OPERATION OF SECOND EMBODIMENT In use, the second embodiment operates as follows. The operator first starts engine 65' by closing either of the starter switches 157 or 158 thereby closing relay 156 and supplying power to the starter motor 155 for the engine. As soon as the engine starts power is delivered via belt 66 to drive pump 117 and provide a supply of pressurized fluid from the supply reservoir 75 for the chassis power units. The lifting apparatus may now be moved to a place of use by operating the control switch 125 to either the forward or reverse position from its normal open position thereby diverting pressurized fluid to drive the single propelling motor 59' forwardly or rearwardly depending upon the direction of closure of switch 125'.

Referring to FIG. 8 it will be observed that the propelling motor 58' has a power connection to a drive shaft 164 equipped with a differential 165. One side of the differential is connected by a chain drive 60' to drive one of the chassis wheels whereas the other side of the differential drives a similar chain 60' connected with the other propelling wheel. If the operator wishes to steer the front wheels he operates control switch 128' to the left or the right to operate the four-way control valve supplying pressurized fluid to the opposite ends of steering cylinder 40' in the same manner as described above in connection with the first embodiment. If both switches and 128' are in neutral position, as they normally are, then the output of pump 117 merely circulates through the respective four-way valve l19,120' and returns to the reservoir so long as these valves are in neutral position. Any excess fluid pressure developed by the pump is relieved by the pressure relief valve Once the apparatus is in the desired position of use, the stabilizing struts 53' (FIG. 9) are lowered from the chassis frame and a check is made to determine that the load platform is level. Platform 22' may now be raised from a control station on the platform by shifting control lever 150 to the right, as viewed in FIGS. 8 and 10, thereby closing switch 70' and simultaneously shifting the piston of cylinder 149 to the left which is effective to shift the piston of slave cylinder 147 to the right. The closing of switch 70 arms the contacts of switch 100a, 1011b of the platform level control device 90. Likewise the movement of the transmission control lever M6 to the right shifts transmission to drive pumps 68' and 69' in a direction to supply equal quantities of pressurized fluid to each of the masts l7,18'. The platform together with its load is now elevated.

Should either end of the platform start to rise at a faster rate than the other end, the tilt so produced acts to close one or the other of the

level control switches

100a,100b thereby energizing the solenoid of one of the bleed valves ll',lll to bleed a portion of the fluid being supplied to the .higher mast until the level condition of the platform is restored. As this occurs, the closed one of the level switches opens with the result that the open bleed valve recloses.

Once the platform is in elevated position the operator restores the control lever 150 to its neutral position and thereby shifting the transmission 145 to its neutral position. Fluid cannot return to the reservoir from either mast because this is positively blocked by check valve 78' in the supply line to the two pumps.

If the operator wishes to shift the work platform to a lower level he merely operates control lever 150 to the left as viewed in FIG. 10 closing switch 86' to re-arm the level control switches 100a',100b'. At the same time the transmission control lever 146 is shifted to the left to operate

pumps

68,69 in the reverse direction. These pumps then pump fluid from each of the masts and return it to the reservoir via conduit 87', bleed valve 85 and conduit 88, valve 85 remaining in its open position so long as switch 86 is closed. Should either end of the platform lag behind the other during the descent switches l00a,l00b' operate in the same manner as described above to bleed additional fluid from the higher mast until the level condition is restored.

Let it now be assumed that an emergency exists by virtue of the failure of the prime mover while the platform is in a raised position. In this event, workmen on the platform can lower the platform without need of the prime mover. An operator merely closes the normally open emergency switch 190 thereby supplying power to the normally closed pair of microswitches 1000,100d of the level control mechanism 90. Immediately that switch 190 closes power is supplied to each of the solenoid bleed valves l10',l11 thereby opening these valves and allowing equal quantities of fluid to bleed from each of the masts and return to the reservoir 75. Should either end of the platform start to lag the higher end will operate to open the associated one of switches 100e, 100d thereby de-energizing the solenoid of the relief valve for the mast under the lower end of the platform thereby closing that valve and allowing the higher end of the platform to approach a level condition whereupon valve 110' reopens. It will therefore be understood that switches 100c,l00d operate in the reverse manner of switches 100a',100b.

While the particular self-contained mobile extendable tower herein shown and disclosed in detail is fully capable of attaining the objects and providing the advantages hereinbefore stated, it is to be understood that it is merely illustrative of the presently preferred embodiment of the invention and that no limitations are intended to the detail of construction or design herein shown other than as defined in the appended claims.

I claim:

1. Apparatus for moving a load between different levels comprising in combination: a horizontal load platform, a main frame underlying said platform, a plurality of multistage mast assemblies arranged in parallel and interconnecting said main frame and the opposite ends of said platform and including an elongated horizontal axis pivot connection extending transversely of and interconnecting one end of said platform and one of said mast assemblies, separate hydraulic pumps of identical displacement connected in circuit with a respective one of said mast assemblies to supply pressurized fluid thereto and operable in either direction by common prime mover means to extend and retract said mast assemblies in unison, normally closed electrically actuated bleed valve means for bleeding fluid from the higher one of said ram assemblies as necessary to maintain said platform level despite the non-uniform loading of said mast assemblies during both extension and retraction of said platform, and non-level sensor means connected to said platform and responsive to pivotal movement of said platform about the axis of said pivotal connection to operate a selected one of said bleed valve means to bleed fluid from any higher one of said mast assemblies as necessary to maintain said platform level.

2. Apparatus as defined in claim 1 characterized in that said non level sensor means is closely adjacent the upper end of one of said mast assemblies.

3. Apparatus as defined in claim 1 characterized in that said non-level sensor means is mounted on the upper end portion of one of said mast assemblies.

4. Apparatus as defined in claim 1 characterized in that said sensor means includes an electric switch connected in circuit with electrical operating means for said bleed valve means and normally so positioned that said bleed valve means is closed to block the escape of fluid from all of said mast assemblies so long as said platform is level and operable to open the bleed valve means of the highest one of said mast assemblies when said platform is not substantially level.

5. Apparatus as defined in claim 1 characterized in that said main frame is rigidly secured to a chassis having steerable front wheels and hydraulically power driven rear wheels, and control means for said power driven rear wheels and including accumulator means for cushioning initiation and cutoff of pressurized fluid to said power drive thereby to assure smooth starting and stopping of said chassis.

6. Apparatus as defined in claim 1 characterized in that said prime mover means comprises a reversible electric motor.

7. Apparatus as defined in claim 6 characterized in that said prime mover means comprises a reversible direct current motor energized from batteries carried by said main frame.

8. Apparatus as defined in claim 1 characterized in the provision of hydraulically powered chassis means supporting said main frame, and means for selectively operating at any time either said mast assemblies to change the level thereof or said hydraulically powered chassis means.

9. Apparatus as defined in claim 8 characterized in that said hydraulically powered chassis means includes accumulator means in circuit with the pressurized hydraulic fluid powering said chassis means effective to provide smooth starting and stopping thereof.

10. Apparatus as defined in claim 1 characterized in the provision of folding protective means hingedly interconnecting said platform and said main frame and protectively enclosing portions of the controls for said prime mover and said pumps.

1 1. Apparatus as defined in claim 10 characterized in that said folding protective means comprises a plurality of elongated rigid members hingedly connected together in end to end relation with one end movably supported at said platform and the other end movably supported at said main frame, and flexible control means protected and supported by said rigid members and interconnecting control means for said apparatus located on said platform and other portions of said apparatus located on said main frame.

12. Apparatus as defined in claim 1 characterized in that said prime mover means comprises unidirectional power generating means coupled to said separate hydraulic pumps by reversible power transmission means.

13. Apparatus as defined in claim 12 characterized in that said main frame comprises a hydraulically powered steerable chassis, and fluid pump means having a driving connection with said unidirectional power generating means in advance of the drive connection of the latter to said reversible power transmission means.

14. Apparatus as defined in claim 12 characterized in the provision of control means on said platform operable to stop and start said power generating means at will from an operating control station on said platform irrespective of the elevation thereof above ground level.

15. Apparatus as defined in claim 11 characterized in that said prime mover means comprises an internal combustion engine coupled to said separate hydraulic pumps by reversible power transmission means.

16. Apparatus as defined in claim 15 characterized in the provision of control means for shifting said power transmission means between a neutral position, forward drive position and reverse drive position from a control station located on said platform.

17. Apparatus as defined in claim 16 characterized in that said control means includes hydraulic motor means located in part on said platform and in part on said main frame.

18. Apparatus as defined in claim ll characterized in that said main frame is mounted on steerable front wheels and hydraulically driven rear wheels.

19. Apparatus as defined in claim 18 characterized in the provision of hydraulically powered means for steering said front wheels from a control station on said platform.

20. A tower assembly as defined in claim 19 characterized in the provision of means for deactivating the operation of said mast assemblies so long as power is being supplied to propel and/or to steer said chassis.

2B. A tower assembly as defined in claim 19 characterized in the provision of means for automatically rendering the drive means for the pumps connected in circuit with said mast assemblies ineffective to drive said pumps while said hydraulically powered means for said front and rear wheels is activated.

22. A mobile chassis-supported extendable tower assembly for moving a load between different levels, said tower assembly comprising a main chassis frame closely spaced above the ground, a load platform overlying said main frame including a plurality of inverted upright yoke means overlying said platform and having the lower ends thereof fixed to said platform near the opposite ends thereof, multistage mast assemblies having their lower ends rigidly secured to said main frame and their upper ends secured to the upper end of a respective one of said yoke means, said mast assemblies having a retracted height corresponding generally to the height of said yoke means, power-driven pressurized fluid means for extending and retracting said masts in synchronism by pressurized fluid supplied to each of said mast assemblies, said last mentioned means including electrical level sensor means mounted on said platform effective to sense tilting of said platform away from the normal horizontal plane thereof and electrically connected to normally closed fluid bleed valves for each of said mast assemblies supported independently of said platform and automatically operable to bleed fluid from the higher one of said mast assemblies when and as necessary to restore said platform to the level condition thereof during both extension and retraction of said platform, said assembly being fully selfcontained and operable from a source of power carried by said chassis.

23. A tower assembly as defined in claim 22 characterized in that said electrical sensor means comprises a pair of electrical switches spaced from one another in a plane parallel to a plane common to the axes of said mast assemblies and respectively responsive to a clockwise and counterclockwise tilting of said platform away from the normal horizontal position thereof to open one or the other of an associated one of said fluid bleed valves until said platform has been restored to the level condition thereof.

24. A tower assembly as defined in claim 22 characterized in the provision of check valve means located in the fluid supply to said mast assemblies and effective to hold said platform locked in any elevated position thereof despite a failure in the operating condition of said power driven means, and manually actuated means operable to bleed fluid from each of said mast assemblies to lower the same in synchronism.

25. A tower assembly as defined in claim 22 characterized in that said power driven means includes similar reversible positive displacement pumps for each of said mast assemblies coupled to a common prime mover for operation in unison, check valve means between a source of hydraulic fluid and the inlet to said pump means to prevent reverse flow of fluid to the fluid source upon the unintended failure of said prime mover, and manually actuated fluid venting means between said check valve means and said pump means operable to lower said platform as the fluid in said mast assemblies escapes therefrom via said pump means and thence through said fluid venting means.

26. A tower assembly as defined in claim 22 characterized in the provision of manually controlled hydraulic motor means for driving an axially aligned pair of said chassis wheels and including accumulator means for cushioning acceleration and deceleration of said chassis.

27. A tower assembly as defined in claim 22 characterized in the provision of separate reversible hydraulic motors driving a respective one of the chassis wheels to propel said mobile tower assembly forwardly and rearwardly at the operators option.

28. A tower assembly as defined in claim 27 characterized in the provision of reversible hydraulic means for steering said tower assembly to the right and to the left from a control station on said platform.

29. A mobile extendable tower assembly comprising a heavy duty chassis having an elongated rigid main frame, an elongated load supporting platform overlying said main frame, similar upright tubular housings having their lower ends fixed to the opposite ends of said platform, a pair of multi-stage mast assemblies having their smaller ends secured to the interior upper ends of said housings and extending downwardly therethrough to fixed anchorages at the opposite ends of said chassis main frame, a prime mover coupled to separate reversible pump means operable to supply pressurized fluid to a respective one of said mast assemblies to raise and lower the same in unison, normally closed bleeder valve means supported independently of said platform for venting fluid from any higher one of said mast assemblies if said platform tilts away from a horizontal plane lengthwise thereof thereby to restore the level condition of said platform, and high sensitivity nonlevel sensor means including two pairs of electric contactors connected in circuit with a source of electrical energy and said bleeder valve means and operable to bleed fluid from any higher one of said mast assemblies during both extension and retraction of said platform as necessary to restore said platform to a level condition upon sensing a non-level condition of said platform.

30. A tower assembly as defined in claim 29 characterized in that said prime mover is coupled to said reversible pump means by reversible transmission means.

31. A tower assembly as defined in claim 29 characterized in the provision of means for lowering said platform independently of the operation of said prime mover and under the control of said non-level sensor means.

32. A tower assembly as defined in claim 29 charac terized in that said pairs of contactors are mounted at the upper end of one of said tubular housings.

33. A tower assembly as defined in claim 32 characterized in that said prime mover means comprises an internal combustion engine.

34. A tower assembly as defined in claim 33 characterized in the provision of manually operable control means on said platform for starting and stopping said engine.

Claims

2. Apparatus as defined in claim 1 characterized in that said non-level sensor means is closely adjacent the upper end of one of said mast assemblies.

11. Apparatus as defined in claim 10 characterized in that said folding protective means comprises a plurality of elongated rigid members hingedly connected together in end to end relation with one end movably supported at said platform and the other end movably supported at said main Frame, and flexible control means protected and supported by said rigid members and interconnecting control means for said apparatus located on said platform and other portions of said apparatus located on said main frame.

15. Apparatus as defined in claim 1 characterized in that said prime mover means comprises an internal combustion engine coupled to said separate hydraulic pumps by reversible power transmission means.

18. Apparatus as defined in claim 1 characterized in that said main frame is mounted on steerable front wheels and hydraulically driven rear wheels.

21. A tower assembly as defined in claim 19 characterized in the provision of means for automatically rendering the drive means for the pumps connected in circuit with said mast assemblies ineffective to drive said pumps while said hydraulically powered means for said front and rear wheels is activated.

22. A mobile chassis-supported extendable tower assembly for moving a load between different levels, said tower assembly comprising a main chassis frame closely spaced above the ground, a load platform overlying said main frame including a plurality of inverted upright yoke means overlying said platform and having the lower ends thereof fixed to said platform near the opposite ends thereof, multistage mast assemblies having their lower ends rigidly secured to said main frame and their upper ends secured to the upper end of a respective one of said yoke means, said mast assemblies having a retracted height corresponding generally to the height of said yoke means, power-driven pressurized fluid means for extending and retracting said masts in synchronism by pressurized fluid supplied to each of said mast assemblies, said last mentioned means including electrical level sensor means mounted on said platform effective to sense tilting of said platform away from the normal horizontal plane thereof and electrically connected to normally closed fluid bleed valves for each of said mast assemblies supported independently of said platform and automatically operable to bleed fluid from the higher one of said mast assemblies when and as necessary to restore said platform to the level condition thereof during both extension and retraction of said platform, said assembly being fully self-contained and operable from a source of power carried by said chassis.

27. A tower assembly as defined in claim 22 characterized in the provision of separate reversible hydraulic motors driving a respective one of the chassis wheels to propel said mobile tower assembly forwardly and rearwardly at the operator''s option.

29. A mobile extendable tower assembly comprising a heavy duty chassis having an elongated rigid main frame, an elongated load supporting platform overlying said main frame, similar upright tubular housings having their lower ends fixed to the opposite ends of said platform, a pair of multi-stage mast assemblies having their smaller ends secured to the interior upper ends of said housings and extending downwardly therethrough to fixed anchorages at the opposite ends of said chassis main frame, a prime mover coupled to separate reversible pump means operable to supply pressurized fluid to a respective one of said mast assemblies to raise and lower the same in unison, normally closed bleeder valve means supported independently of said platform for venting fluid from any higher one of said mast assemblies if said platform tilts away from a horizontal plane lengthwise thereof thereby to restore the level condition of said platform, and high sensitivity non-level sensor means including two pairs of electric contactors connected in circuit with a source of electrical energy and said bleeder valve means and operable to bleed fluid from any higher one of said mast assemblies during both extension and retraction of said platform as necessary to restore said platform to a level condition upon sensing a non-level condition of said platform.

32. A tower assembly as defined in claim 29 characterized in that said pairs of contactors are mounted at the upper end of one of said tubular housings.