Service vehicle for electric vehicle batteries with overload protection

Abstract

A service vehicle and associated equipment suitable for servicing electric vehicles and vehicle batteries. The service vehicle may include a frame with multiple components arranged in a compact configuration. The service vehicle may include multiple support pads that can be adjusted relative to the frame. The support pads may include an overload protection mechanism with a break pin. The service vehicle may include a detachable handle operable to selectively disengage multiple brakes on the vehicle. The service vehicle may include a towing hook suitable for detachably engaging an external towing device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the repair and maintenance of electric vehicles and their associated batteries. More specifically, this disclosure relates to tools useful in the repair and maintenance of electric vehicles and their associated batteries. Background Technology

[0002] Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular due to their versatility and reliability. However, electric vehicles and their components still require servicing for repair and maintenance. Most electric vehicles are characterized by large, heavy batteries that power the prime mover, often requiring the prime mover to be removed from the vehicle chassis to perform essential servicing on the vehicle or the battery itself.

[0003] Due to their size and weight, removing batteries from their respective chassis is often difficult and time-consuming, and may require specialized tools in a dedicated workshop environment. These tools are typically expensive, bulky, and difficult to store. Summary of the Invention

[0004] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a service vehicle suitable for servicing electric vehicles and vehicle batteries. The service vehicle may have a frame including a plurality of first support members, a plurality of second support members, a plurality of support members, a plurality of first transverse members, and a plurality of second transverse members. Each support member is disposed between the first and second support members, and each first transverse member is disposed between each of the plurality of first support members, and each second transverse member is disposed between each of the plurality of second support members. The service vehicle may also include a first number of wheels and a second number of wheel locks with brakes, each wheel being operatively coupled to at least one of the first support members or one of the first transverse members, each wheel lock being operatively coupled to one of the first number of wheels, and configured to apply braking force to its respective wheel when its brake is engaged. The service vehicle can be configured such that at least one of the second transverse members is an adjustable transverse member, the adjustable transverse member being configured to be longitudinally disposed between the two second transverse members at an angle orthogonal to each of the second support members within a specified tolerance, and wherein each adjustable transverse member includes a support pad configured to provide support within a specified tolerance in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal orientation of the support member.

[0005] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a service vehicle suitable for servicing electric vehicles and vehicle batteries. The service vehicle may have a frame including a plurality of first support members, a plurality of second support members, a plurality of support members, a plurality of first transverse members, and a plurality of second transverse members. Each support member is disposed between the first and second support members. Each first transverse member is disposed between each of the plurality of first support members. Each second transverse member is disposed between each of the plurality of second support members. The service vehicle may also include a plurality of wheels, each operatively coupled to at least one of the first support members or one of the first transverse members. The service vehicle may also include a plurality of wheel locks with brakes, each wheel lock operatively coupled to one of the plurality of wheels and configured to apply braking force to its respective wheel when its brake is engaged, wherein the brakes of the wheel locks are configured to engage selectively. In some embodiments, the service vehicle may further include a handle mount coupled to a first support member or a first transverse member, and a handle having a push rod and configured to be detachably coupled to the handle mount, wherein the brakes of the wheels are selectively engaged depending on the position of the push rod.

[0006] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a service vehicle suitable for servicing electric vehicles and vehicle batteries. The service vehicle may have a frame including a plurality of first support members, a plurality of second support members, a plurality of support members, a plurality of first transverse members, and a plurality of second transverse members. Each support member is disposed between the first and second support members, each first transverse member is disposed between each of the plurality of first support members, and each second transverse member is disposed between each of the plurality of second support members. The service vehicle may also include a plurality of wheels, each wheel operatively coupled to at least one of the first support members or one of the first transverse members. The service vehicle may also include a plurality of wheel locks with brakes, each wheel lock operatively coupled to one of the plurality of wheels and configured to apply a braking force to its respective wheel when its brakes are engaged. The service vehicle may be configured such that the first transverse members include locking hinges, and the plurality of second transverse members are folded second transverse members including locking hinges, wherein when the locking hinges are disengaged, the first transverse members and the folded second transverse members are each operable to adjust their respective engagement angles relative to their respective support members, and the frame may be arranged in a compact form. The locking hinges may include a spring-loaded pin configuration.

[0007] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a service vehicle suitable for servicing electric vehicles and vehicle batteries. The service vehicle may have a frame including a plurality of first support members, a plurality of second support members, a plurality of support members, a plurality of first transverse members, and a plurality of second transverse members. The frame may be configured such that each support member is disposed between the first and second support members, each first transverse member is disposed between each of the plurality of first support members, and each second transverse member is disposed between each of the plurality of second support members. The service vehicle may also include a first number of wheels, each wheel operatively coupled to at least one of the first support members or one of the first transverse members, and a second number of wheel locks having brakes, each wheel lock operatively coupled to one of the first number of wheels and configured to apply braking force to its respective wheel when its brake is engaged. The frame may also be configured such that at least one of the second transverse members includes a support pad configured to provide support within a specified tolerance in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal orientation of the support member, the support pad having a rod collar having a collar opening configured to receive a fracture pin configured to be inserted into the collar opening and to break when subjected to a shear force above a specified threshold value.

[0008] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a service vehicle suitable for servicing electric vehicles and vehicle batteries. The service vehicle may have a frame including a plurality of first support members, a plurality of second support members, a plurality of support members, a plurality of first transverse members, and a plurality of second transverse members. The frame may be configured such that each support member is disposed between the first and second support members, each first transverse member is disposed between each of the plurality of first support members, and each second transverse member is disposed between each of the plurality of second support members. The service vehicle may also include a plurality of wheels and a plurality of wheel locks with brakes, each wheel being operatively coupled to at least one of the first support members or one of the first transverse members, each wheel lock being operatively coupled to one of the plurality of wheels, and configured to apply braking force to its respective wheel when its brake is engaged. The service vehicle may also include a towing hook disposed on the frame, the towing hook being operable to detachably connect the frame to an external towing device. At least one of the towing hooks may include a pin connection utilizing a plurality of towing hooks and hook pins.

[0009] The foregoing and other aspects of this disclosure will now be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a diagram of a service vehicle.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a diagram of the service vehicle's frame.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a diagram of the frame of the service vehicle in the first arrangement.

[0013] Figure 4 This is a diagram of the frame of the service vehicle in the second arrangement.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a diagram of the adjustable lateral component of the service vehicle.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the support pads and sliding blocks within the main body of the adjustable lateral component of the service vehicle.

[0016] Figure 7 This is a diagram of a sliding block used inside the main body of an adjustable lateral component of a service vehicle.

[0017] Figure 8 This is an exploded view of the support pad components of the service vehicle.

[0018] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view when the support pad is configured to receive external loads.

[0019] Figure 10 This is an illustration of a service vehicle equipped with a braking system.

[0020] Figure 11A This is a close-up view of the service vehicle handle with the braking mechanism in the first position.

[0021] Figure 11B This is a close-up view of the service vehicle handle with the braking mechanism in the second position.

[0022] Figure 12 It is a cross-sectional view of the wheels and related brakes used in the service vehicle.

[0023] Figure 13 It is a close-up view of the retaining pins used to service the wheels and the brake housing.

[0024] Figure 14 It is a close-up view of the wheels of a service vehicle with wheel forks and associated brake pads.

[0025] Figure 15 This is a top view of the service vehicle, illustrating the placement of multiple towing attachments compatible with external towing devices.

[0026] Figure 16A This is a close-up view of the attachment points connecting the service vehicle and the external towing unit.

[0027] Figure 16B This is a close-up view of the external towing device, which is detachably attached to the service vehicle using hook-up components for each towing device.

[0028] Figure 17A It is a cross-sectional view of the mounting components between the service vehicle and the external towing device before they are connected.

[0029] Figure 17B It is a cross-sectional view of the coupling components when the service vehicle and the external towing device are connected. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The illustrated embodiments are disclosed with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are intended merely as examples that can be implemented in various alternative forms. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and some features may be enlarged or reduced to show details of certain components. The specific structural and functional details disclosed should not be construed as limiting, but rather as a representative basis for instructing those skilled in the art on how to practice the disclosed concepts.

[0031] It should be understood that specific angle measurements are provided as examples and not as limitations throughout this disclosure, unless otherwise stated herein. The phrase "substantially perpendicular" is used herein to indicate a 90-degree angle within the specified tolerances required for the operability of the invention as recognized by those skilled in the art. The phrase "substantially parallel" is used herein to indicate a 0-degree angle within the specified tolerances required for the operability of the invention as recognized by those skilled in the art. Any specific angle measurement provided should be understood to be within the specified tolerances required for the operability of the invention as recognized by those skilled in the art in practice.

[0032] Figure 1 A service vehicle 100 configured to support a battery 102 is shown. The battery 102 may include a battery intended for use with an electric vehicle. In the depicted embodiment, the battery 102 may include a trapezoidal shape; however, without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, the service vehicle 100 may be configured to accommodate and support batteries of different shapes and sizes.

[0033] The service vehicle 100 includes a frame 103 suitable for supporting the weight of a battery 102. The frame 103 is formed of a plurality of members connected to provide a support base for the battery 102. The frame 103 may include a plurality of support members 105 arranged substantially parallel to the battery 102, and a plurality of support members 107 arranged substantially perpendicular to the battery 102. Each support member 105 may be coupled to one or more support members 107 to form a support substructure of the frame 103. In the depicted embodiment, the support substructure includes the connection of the support members 105 and support members 107 at a substantially perpendicular angle; however, other embodiments may include other arrangements without departing from the teachings of this disclosure. In the depicted embodiment, the frame 103 includes two support substructures; however, other embodiments may include more support substructures without departing from the teachings of this disclosure.

[0034] Frame 103 also includes a plurality of transverse members 109 that connect substructures together to form a complete structure of frame 103. In the depicted embodiment, the transverse members 109 are coupled to support members 105 and support members 107 in such a manner that each transverse member 109 is arranged at an angle substantially perpendicular to the respective support member 105 and support member 107 to which it is coupled. In the depicted embodiment, frame 103 includes six transverse members 109, but other embodiments may include other configurations without departing from the teachings of this disclosure. Frame 103 may also include a plurality of adjustable transverse members 111, which may be configured to receive batteries of different configurations. The adjustable transverse members 111 may be detachable from frame 103 without departing from the teachings of this disclosure. In the depicted embodiment, the adjustable transverse members 111 are detachably coupled to frame 103, but other embodiments may include other configurations for some or all of the adjustable transverse members 111 without departing from the teachings of this disclosure.

[0035] The service cart 100 may also include a handle 113 and a plurality of wheels 115, which allows technicians to move the service cart 100. In the described embodiment, the handle 113 may be coupled to one of the transverse members 109 and each wheel 115 may be coupled to the frame 103, but other embodiments may include other configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein.

[0036] Service vehicle 100 may additionally include a plurality of towing hooks 117 configured to receive external towing devices, such as an electric towing device 119. An external towing device may be detachably coupled to service vehicle 100 via one of the towing hooks 117 to assist a user in moving service vehicle 100 when under load. In the described embodiment, each towing hook 117 is coupled to frame 103, but other embodiments may include other configurations without departing from the teachings of this disclosure. In the depicted embodiment, towing hooks 117 are configured to be coupled to electric towing device 119, but other embodiments may be configured to be coupled to other or additional types of external towing devices without departing from the teachings of this disclosure. The described embodiment includes four towing hooks 117, but other embodiments may include other configurations without departing from the teachings of this disclosure.

[0037] Figure 2 An additional view of the components of frame 103 is provided. In this view, in order to... Figure 2 For the purpose of observing the orientation in the following figures, each of the support member 105, the support member 107, and the transverse member 109 has been identified as one in a sequence. In the depicted embodiment, support members 105a and 105b include a set of first support members configured to be used when the frame 103 is assembled and the service vehicle 100 (see...) Figure 1 When under load, it is more than the load battery (such as battery 102, see) Figure 1 Closer to the ground. In the depicted embodiments, support members 105c and 105d include a set of second support members configured to be closer to the battery location than the ground when the frame 103 is assembled and the service vehicle 100 is under load. In the depicted embodiments, lateral members 109a, 109b, and 109c include a set of first lateral members configured to connect with each first support member. In the depicted embodiments, lateral members 109d, 109e, and 109f include a set of second lateral members configured to connect between the second support members. Other embodiments may have different sets of support members 105, support members 107, and lateral members 109 without departing from the teachings of this disclosure.

[0038] Frame 103 may also include additional features that provide functionality to service vehicle 100. In the depicted embodiment, each lateral member 109 may be coupled to other members of frame 103 via a plurality of hinges 209. Hinges 209 may be configured to allow a range of motion between their respective lateral members 109 and their respective attached support members 105 or bracing members 107. In the depicted embodiment, each hinge 209 is coupled to a support member 105 on either side of frame 103, but other embodiments may include hinges coupled to a support member or a combination of support and bracing members without departing from the teachings of this disclosure.

[0039] Hinge 209 can advantageously allow the transverse member 109 to be arranged relative to support member 105 and support member 107 to achieve a particular configuration of frame 103. In the depicted embodiment, frame 103 is arranged as a rectangular prism, but other embodiments may be configured differently without departing from the teachings disclosed herein to advantageously support different batteries of different shapes. In the depicted embodiment, hinge 209 may have a range of motion of 180 degrees relative to the associated support member 105, but other embodiments may include other configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein.

[0040] In some embodiments, hinge 209 may include a free-floating range of motion. However, in the illustrated embodiment, it may be advantageous for some or all of hinges 209 to include hinge locks 211 operable to secure the associated hinges 209 in a specific angular arrangement. In the depicted embodiment, hinge lock 211 includes a spring-loaded pin lock configured to be received by hinge 209, but other embodiments may include other locking mechanisms without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. Without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, hinge locks 211 may be operable to secure the arrangement of their respective associated hinges 209 at a plurality of predetermined angles, or may be configured to allow any angle. In the described embodiment, hinge locks 211 are present for hinges 209 associated with transverse members 109a and 109d, but other embodiments may include hinge locks 211 present for any configuration of hinges 209 without departing from the teachings disclosed herein.

[0041] Frame 103 also includes features that can be used to support other components of service vehicle 100 (see Figure 1 In the depicted embodiment, frame 103 includes a plurality of handle attachments 213 operable to be detachably attached to handles, such as handle 113 (see...). Figure 1In the depicted embodiment, hinge connector 213 is coupled to transverse members 109a and 109c, but other embodiments may have other configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein.

[0042] Frame 103 may also include a plurality of wheel mounts 215 configured to provide mounting positions for wheels coupled to frame 103, such as wheels 115 (see [link to service vehicle 100]). Figure 1 In the depicted embodiment, frame 103 includes wheel mounts 215 located at the intersection of support member 105 and transverse member 109, the intersection of which forms the lowermost and outermost joint of the frame body. Other embodiments may include additional or alternative placements of wheel mounts 215 without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. By way of example and not limitation, frame 103 may include wheel mounts 215 associated with each intersection of one of the first set of support members 105 (e.g., support members 105a and 105b) and support member 107.

[0043] Another advantage of implementing hinge 209 is that frame 103 can be placed in a more compact or portable arrangement for storage or travel. Figure 3 The diagram illustrates that frame 103 is constructed as follows: Figure 4 The first arrangement is shown in a more compact second arrangement. Figure 3 In the middle, the transverse members 109 are connected via their respective hinges (not shown, see Figure 2 The transverse members 109 are arranged along direction 300. Because each transverse member 109 is connected to other members of the frame 103, direction 300 is also consistently applied to each transverse member 109. Other embodiments may have different configurations that result in inconsistent arrangement adjustments without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. In the depicted embodiments, a consistent reconfiguration of the arrangement of the frame 103 can advantageously be performed by a single person skilled in the art.

[0044] Figure 4 This is an illustration of frame 103 after it has been arranged in a compact form. The compact form of frame 103 is achieved because the transverse members 109 include folded transverse members that can be arranged at a desired minimum angle, and in the depicted arrangement, each transverse member 109 is arranged at a 0-degree angle relative to the support member 105. It is noteworthy that this arrangement is achieved due to joints associated with each transverse member 109 via hinges 209 (see...). Figure 2 Hinge 209 may include a hinge lock 211 (see...). Figure 2 The locking hinge, once placed in a compact arrangement, can be used to restrict the movement of the transverse member 109. Figure 4The frame 103 is depicted in a compact arrangement, without other elements of the service vehicle 100 (see [link]). Figure 1 However, without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, frame 103 may be configured in the desired arrangement while still being coupled to other elements of service vehicle 100, such as wheels 115 or handles 113. When frame 103 is still coupled to wheels 115, the configuration of the arrangement of frame 103 may advantageously allow technicians or other users to more easily move the compressed frame 103 to the storage location.

[0045] Back Figure 1 The service cart 100 includes a plurality of adjustable lateral members 111 arranged between various support members 105 from a second set of support members. In the depicted embodiment, the adjustable lateral members 111 may be detachably coupled to the frame 103, but other embodiments may include other couplings, such as those utilizing hinges, without departing from the teachings of this disclosure. In the depicted embodiment, the adjustable lateral members 111 may advantageously be coupled to the frame 103 by a clamping mechanism, but other embodiments may include other coupling mechanisms without departing from the teachings of this disclosure. In the depicted embodiment, the clamping mechanism may include a helical lock to advantageously provide stability for the adjustable lateral members 111 when positioned at selected points along the longitudinal direction of their associated support members 105.

[0046] In the depicted embodiment, the adjustable lateral member 111 can be positioned at any point longitudinally along the support member 105 between the lateral members 109; however, other embodiments may include different configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. In the depicted embodiment, during the assembly of the service vehicle 100, the adjustable lateral member 111 is positioned at a specific point longitudinally along the support member 105 by initial placement; however, other embodiments may include an adjustable lateral member 111 that can be adjusted to be positioned without being disengaged from the support member 105. Placing the adjustable lateral member 111 at a specific point along the support member 105 can advantageously allow the service vehicle 100 to support a variety of batteries having various sizes and characteristics. In some embodiments, the support member 105 may additionally include markings to provide placement guidance to technicians, thereby properly ensuring that the adjustable lateral member 111 is properly positioned relative to the support member 105 to accommodate a particular battery shape. In such embodiments, the markings may include multiple hash marks providing a ruler measurement system. Some configurations may include additional marking systems suitable for adapting to specific types of battery designs, such as specific battery configurations from a particular manufacturer or compatible with vehicles from a particular automaker. Such embodiments can advantageously provide a simple configuration of the service vehicle 100 for specific vehicle lines and may be more desirable for technicians who only work on those specific vehicles.

[0047] Figure 5 This is an illustration of the features of the adjustable lateral member 111. The adjustable lateral member 111 includes a member body 500. To accommodate various battery designs, the adjustable lateral member 111 also includes a plurality of support pads 501. The support pads 501 are configured to be positioned such that when the service vehicle 100 (see...) Figure 1 When under load, the service vehicle 100 is in direct contact with the battery, and therefore all the support pads 501 of the service vehicle 100—and, through agents, all the adjustable lateral members 111—must be configured to properly support the prescribed weight of the battery. Each support pad 501 includes a pad surface 503 configured to make direct contact with the outer surface of the battery when the service vehicle 100 is under load. The pad surface 503 may advantageously utilize a high-friction material to help hold the battery in place when the service vehicle is under load. In the depicted embodiments, the pad surface 503 may comprise a polymer such as silicone, but other embodiments may use any other material without departing from the teachings of this disclosure.

[0048] The support pad 501 also includes a pad rod 505, which can be advantageously used to adjust the vertical height of the support pad 501 relative to the component body 500. In the depicted embodiment, the height adjustment of the support pad 501 can be achieved by rotating a rod bolt 507 connected to one end of the pad rod 505; however, other embodiments may include other configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. In the depicted embodiment, the rod bolt 507 may include a screw bolt configured to engage a screw receiver within the pad rod 505 (not shown). In the depicted embodiment, the rod bolt 507 further advantageously secures the pad rod 505 so that the pad rod 505 is not accidentally removed from the component body 500.

[0049] Each support pad 501 is threaded through the component body 500 via a pair of rod channels 509. Each support pad 501 is threaded through its corresponding rod channel 509, such that its corresponding pad rod 505 can be positioned along the length of the component body 500. In the depicted embodiment, each rod channel 509 is configured to provide low friction for the movement of the pad rod 505, but is also narrow enough compared to the diameter of the pad rod 505 that the corresponding support pad 501 cannot rotate freely in direction α. ​​In the depicted embodiment, the pad rod 505 is threaded through the entire height of the component body 500, and thus through two different rod channels 509 on opposite sides of the component body 500. Other embodiments may include different configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein.

[0050] In the described embodiment, each pad 505 is further threaded through a sliding block 511 disposed within the component body 500. The pad 505 may be threaded, such that the associated sliding block 511 is engaged with the pad 505 while being threaded (such as a screw thread construction). Each sliding block 511 may advantageously allow the support pad 501 to be positioned relative to the component body 500 in the longitudinal direction.

[0051] Figure 6 An alternative side view of the support pad 501 and sliding block 511 relative to the component body 500 of the adjustable transverse member 111 is provided. In the depicted embodiment, a portion of the interior of the component body 500 is visible within section line 600. In the depicted embodiment, the position of the support pad 501 is adjustable in two dimensions. The height adjustment of the support pad 501 is shown above. Figure 5 The described method controls the position of the support pad 501 along the y-direction. Figure 6 The longitudinal direction x of the component body 500 is also shown. In the depicted embodiment, the rod channel 509 is configured such that the pad rod 505 can move freely along the direction x, although other embodiments may include other configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. The slider 511 helps ensure that only linear positioning of the support pad 501 occurs by preventing rotational movement along the direction β.

[0052] The slider 511 also includes a locking pin 613 disposed within a locking channel 613 of the component body 500. The locking channel 613 differs from the rod channel 509 because one edge is configured as a set of channel teeth 617. When the associated support pad 505 is subjected to a downward load abutting the support surface 503 (such as when supporting a battery), the locking pin 613 can be forcefully engaged between two adjacent teeth in the channel teeth 617. When the locking pin is forcefully engaged between adjacent teeth in the channel teeth 617, the slider 511 may be inoperable to move in the x-direction, and the support pad 501 may advantageously be in a fixed position under load. To ensure that the support pad can be freely positioned when not under load, the slider 511 may include a sliding spring 619 operable to provide an upward force in the y-direction when not under load. Because the pad support 501 and the slider 511 are effectively engaged when the pad rod 505 is threaded through the slider 511, the pressure applied from the battery to the surface 503 will provide a force to resist the upward force provided by the slide spring 619. In the depicted embodiment, the associated battery may be very heavy, but the slide spring 619 does not need to provide enough force to support most of the battery weight to be effective; rather, it only needs to provide enough force to counteract the combined weight force supporting the pad 501 and the slider 511 when engaged but unloaded. In the depicted embodiment, the slide spring 619 is operable to provide a sufficiently low upward force so that a technician can easily hold the slide support 511 in place by hand when checking its operation. By way of example and not limitation, the depicted embodiment may include a slide spring 619 capable of generating 10 pounds of force, but other embodiments may include other specifications without departing from the teachings known to those skilled in the art. However, it should be recognized that the preferred embodiment of the slide spring 619 will not, in combination with all the slide springs of the associated embodiment, provide enough force to fully support the service vehicle 100 (see [link to related embodiment]). Figure 1 The weight of the battery providing the load is considered. In the depicted embodiment, the locking pin 613 can be advantageously configured to withstand a much greater shear force than the associated sliding spring 619, because the locking pin 613 will remain subjected to a much greater weight from the battery when the service vehicle is under load. By way of example and not limitation, in the depicted embodiment, the locking pin 613 can be adapted to withstand shear forces up to 1000 pounds under load, but other embodiments will include other configurations suitable for their associated intended loads without departing from the teachings disclosed herein.

[0053] The component body 500 may also include markings or measurements thereon to provide a measurable indication of the position of the support pad 501 to users and technicians. In some embodiments, the channel teeth 617 may be numbered or marked with distance measurements to provide position indication (not shown). In other embodiments, some or all of the channel teeth 617 may include a prescribed color indicating a specific position of the support pad 501 relative to a specific type of battery (not shown) to be supported. Other markings may be used in other embodiments without departing from the teachings disclosed herein.

[0054] Figure 7 The sliding block 511 is independent of its component body 500 relative to the adjustable lateral member 111 (see [link]). Figure 5 and Figure 6 The diagram illustrates the arrangement of the sliding block 511. The sliding block 511 includes a locking pin 613 and a sliding spring 619. In some embodiments, without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, the sliding block 511 may include additional or differently constructed locking pins 613. In embodiments where multiple locking pins 613 are present on opposite sides of the sliding block 511, the component body 500 of the adjustable transverse member 111 may include multiple locking channels 615 (see...). Figure 6 A sliding block 511 is accommodated. In a configuration with multiple locking pins 613, the specified shear force tolerance of the locking pins 613 can collectively withstand a specified weight under load. By way of example and not limitation, a sliding block 511 with four locking pins 613 can still operate to withstand a shear force of 1000 pounds, but each individual locking pin 613 can be specified to independently withstand a shear force of 250 pounds (¼ of the total maximum load). Such an embodiment can advantageously reduce the cost of the sliding block 511 by utilizing cheaper materials for the locking pins 613. Other embodiments may include other configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein.

[0055] Figure 7 The diagram also shows a rod receiver 701, which is operable to receive and thread-engage a pad rod 505 (see Figure 505). Figure 5 In the depicted embodiments, the rod receiver 701 may include an interior having screw threads to mate with the threads of the associated pad rod 505, but other embodiments may include other constructions without departing from the teachings disclosed herein.

[0056] The sliding block 511 may additionally include a sliding shoe 703, which is configured to insert into an internal groove (not shown) within the member body 500 (see [link to article]). Figure 5 and Figure 6The sliding shoe 703 can engage the internal groove with a low coefficient of friction to allow the sliding block 511 to move freely within the component body 500 when not under load. However, the sliding shoe 703 with the internal groove advantageously prevents the sliding block 511 from rotating or otherwise displacing within the component body 500, such that the pad rod 505 cannot be successfully threaded through the rod receiver 701 during the assembly, repair, or reassembly of the adjustable transverse component 111. Some embodiments may omit the sliding shoe 703 or the internal groove of the component body 500 without departing from the teachings disclosed herein.

[0057] Figure 8 An exploded view including support pad 501. In the depicted embodiment, rod bolt 507 is coupled to pad surface 503 via rod collar 801 configured to receive pad rod 505. Support pad 501 further includes a plurality of collar openings 805 forming through holes in rod collar 801 and a plurality of rod openings 807 forming through holes in pad rod 505. When rod collar 801 has received pad rod 505, collar openings 805 and rod openings 807 can be aligned such that break pin 809 can be inserted into the through hole formed by their alignment.

[0058] Vehicle batteries are typically very heavy and are mounted along the chassis of the associated vehicle. As an example, and not a limitation, the battery weight suitable for a typical electric vehicle can be between 1,000 and 3,000 pounds, and the battery weight for an electric light truck can be 5,000 pounds or more. In the embodiment depicted herein, service vehicle 100 (see...) Figure 1 The service vehicle 100 can be specified to safely accommodate batteries with a load exceeding 5,000 pounds. Due to the weight and arrangement of the battery relative to its electric vehicle, conventional methods of loading the service vehicle 100 may include using an additional high-powered lift (such as an electric, pneumatic, hydraulic, or hybrid lift found in a regular auto shop) to raise the entire vehicle high enough that the service vehicle 100 can be positioned underneath, and then slowly lowering the vehicle onto the service vehicle 100 until the battery is against the support pad 501 (see...). Figure 5 The battery is then contacted and then disconnected from the associated electric vehicle. In such a procedure, the arrangement of the service vehicle 100 is ideally and appropriately configured to accommodate the battery it will receive.

[0059] The break pin 809 can be designed as a consumable component to be sacrificed when the support pad 501 is subjected to a weight greater than specified during the loading procedure. This sacrifice of the break pin 809 can advantageously provide audible, visual, or tactile feedback indicating that one or more support pads 501 have been overloaded, and technicians can use this feedback to continue using the high-power lift to support the weight of the vehicle and / or battery. This feedback can advantageously protect technicians from unsafe loads on the service vehicle 100 and protect other components of the service vehicle 100 from repair or replacement that would otherwise subject the service vehicle to potentially damaging loads.

[0060] In the depicted embodiment, when placed under battery load, the break pin 809 may be subjected to shear forces from the rod collar 801. Each support pad 501 of the service vehicle 100 is expected to be subjected to a portion of the total battery weight. Therefore, the break pin 809 can be advantageously configured to fail when subjected to a load exceeding its associated specified capacity. By way of example and not limitation, in the illustrated embodiment, the break pin 809 may be specified to withstand shear forces up to 1250 pounds to accommodate a maximum battery weight of 5000 pounds distributed across four different support pads 501 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 1 and Figure 5 In other embodiments, the break pin 809 may be configured to accommodate a smaller battery weighing 1,000 pounds, and therefore may be specified to withstand only 250 pounds of shear force. In some embodiments, the break pin 809 may be specified to fail at a lower weight if it is assumed that the weight of the battery itself will not be uniformly distributed on the service vehicle 100. As an example and not a limitation, if the battery weighs 1,000 pounds, but 70% of its weight is distributed on one side of its casing, half of the break pin 809 may be specified to have a higher failure point (e.g., 350 pounds of shear force), and the other half may be specified to have a lower failure point (e.g., 150 pounds), allowing a technician to know whether the battery load is not properly distributed on the service vehicle 100 in a way that optimizes safety.

[0061] In the depicted embodiments, the breaking of the break pin 809 can produce a loud, audible sound when it fails. In some embodiments, the surface 811 of the pad rod 505 may include incomplete circuitry (not shown) which can be accomplished by contact with an inner surface within the rod collar 801. Complete circuitry can be used to power a visual indicator such as a light-emitting diode or an audible indicator such as a buzzer or alarm. In some such embodiments, the impact of the surface 811 with the inner surface itself can produce a loud and clear audible sound that indicates to a technician that the associated break pin 809 has been sacrificed.

[0062] Figure 9This is a cross-sectional view of the assembled support pad 501 when configured to be placed under load. In the depicted embodiment, the pad rod 505 is received by an empty space 901 within the rod collar 801. A break pin 809 is inserted into a through hole formed by aligning the openings of the pad rod 505 and the rod collar 801. The break pin 809 serves to maintain a distance between the surface 811 of the pad rod 505 and the empty space 901. In the event that the break pin 809 fails due to excessive shear force applied to one or both ends by the rod collar 801, the downward force 913 of the external load pushes the rod collar 801 downward onto the pad rod 505, resulting in a collision and contact between the surfaces 811 and 911.

[0063] The service vehicle 100 may include other features for the safety and ease of use of technicians. Figure 10 This is an illustration of a service vehicle 100, characterized by a braking system integrated with a handle 113. The handle 113 can be coupled to the service vehicle 100 via a handle mount 1013. In the depicted embodiment, the service vehicle 100 includes a frame 103 mounted on the vehicle (see [link to illustration]). Figure 1 The service vehicle 100 may have multiple handle mounts 1013 on either side of the vehicle, but other embodiments may include a different number of handle mounts 1013 without departing from the teachings of this disclosure. In the described embodiments, the handle 113 may be detachably coupled to the service vehicle 100 so that it can be mounted on either side of the service vehicle, but other embodiments may include different coupling mechanisms without departing from the teachings of this disclosure. Figure 10 In the depicted embodiments, the service vehicle 100 may include an optional second handle 114, such that both handle 113 and handle 114 can be simultaneously attached to the service vehicle 100 using different handle mounts 1013. Having multiple handle mounts 1013 and attaching multiple handles to the service vehicle 100 can advantageously provide multiple technicians with easy access to the vehicle, thereby reducing the effort required for each technician to safely move the vehicle under load. In the depicted embodiments, and throughout this specification unless otherwise stated, handle 114 is identical in form and function to handle 113; however, other embodiments may include multiple handles with different configurations without departing from the teachings of this disclosure. Unless otherwise stated, the description of handle 113 within this disclosure also applies to handle 114 in embodiments that include the second handle 114.

[0064] In the illustrated embodiment, the service vehicle 100 includes a braking system comprising a brake cable 1015 configured to interface with a handle 113 via a handle mount 1013. Each wheel 115 includes an associated brake housing 1017, within which is a brake engagement mechanism (not shown). The engagement mechanism of each brake housing 1017 can be engaged via one of the brake cables 1015. In the depicted embodiment, selective engagement of the brake cable 1015 is achieved via a control in the handle 113. In the depicted embodiment, the brakes on the wheels 115 are normally engaged, and the control in the handle 113 may include a push rod 1019 operable to selectively disengage the brakes (sometimes referred to as "dead man" control). Other embodiments may include other configurations, but the depicted embodiment can advantageously utilize normally engaged brakes to maximize vehicle stability under load without relying on a technician to explicitly apply the brakes, thereby improving the safety of both the vehicle and the technician. The push rod 1019 provides ergonomic control of the brakes, allowing technicians to easily disengage all brakes simultaneously when positioning the handle 113, thereby maximizing the comfort of the handcart operation, even under load.

[0065] In the depicted embodiments, handle 113 can be detachably coupled to the vehicle via handle mount 1013, and thus handle mount 1013 provides a conduit for connecting push rod 1019 in handle 113 to brake cable 1015. Other embodiments may include additional mechanisms for such coupling without departing from the teachings of this disclosure. In embodiments having both handles 113 and 114, either handle may include push rod 1019 operable to selectively disengage the brake. In some embodiments having two handles, such as those designed to support very heavy loads, the two handles may need to be selectively engaged to disengage the brakes on wheel 115, which advantageously encourages the presence of two technicians while moving the vehicle under load, thereby improving safety.

[0066] In the depicted embodiment, the push rod 1019 of a single handle 113 may be operable to control the brake associated with each wheel 115. To accommodate this, a plurality of cable duplexers 1021 are mounted to the frame of the service vehicle 100. Each cable duplexer 1021 is configured to connect a single input brake cable 1015 coupled to the handle 113 to a plurality of output brake cables 1015, which directly actuate the brakes of the wheels 115. The depicted embodiment includes a pair of cable duplexers 1021 located on either side of the handle mount 1013, thereby providing a coupled handle 113 to access the braking mechanism of all brakes on one side of the service vehicle 100 opposite the handle 113. In such an embodiment, this configuration allows each brake associated with the wheels 115 of the service vehicle 100 to be disengaged using a single control (such as the push rod 1019) on a single handle 113. In this configuration, when the associated handle 113 of the push rod 1019 is mounted to the service vehicle 100 and the brake cable 1015 is coupled thereto via the handle mount 1013, the push rod 1019 is operable to disengage all brakes. Other embodiments may include different arrangements of cable duplexers 1021 with different numbers or configurations without departing from the teachings of this disclosure.

[0067] The depicted embodiment includes a normally engaged brake configuration accessible via push rod 1019. This configuration can be cumbersome for a single technician who needs to move the service vehicle 100. Figure 11 includes a close-up view of a feature of handle 113 that can be used to assist a single technician in operating the brake.

[0068] Figure 11A A view of handle 113 is provided when push rod 1019 is not engaged (and therefore when the vehicle's brakes are engaged). In the depicted arrangement, push rod 1019 is inserted into rod channel 1100, which allows push rod 1019 to move along a predetermined path to optimally disengage the brake (not shown). Applying an upward force 1112 to push rod 1019 can position push rod 1019 into the engaged position (thus disengaging the brakes). Handle 113 also includes latch 1113, which is operable to be positioned such that it can hold push rod 1019 in the engaged position without further application of force 1112. Latch 1113 includes a sleeve latch operable to slide along the length of handle member 1115. Latch 1113 is also operable to rotate about the outside of handle member 1115. Figure 11B The described combined movement of latch 1113 can be used to move latch 1113 in direction 1116 to a position between the position of push rod 1019 when it is in the engaged position and the position of latch 1117 from push rod 1019 in the downward direction. Figure 11BIn this embodiment, latch 1117 provides a stabilizing force 1118 to counteract any downward force 1120 exerted on push rod 1019 as it attempts to return to its normally disengaged state. While the described embodiments include a sliding latch and a cylindrical handle member, other embodiments may include different latch mechanism configurations without departing from the teachings of this disclosure. Some embodiments may not include a latch mechanism for any handle 113 used on the service vehicle without departing from the teachings of this disclosure.

[0069] Figure 12 A cross-sectional view of wheel 115 is shown, which is connected via wheel mount 215 (see...). Figure 2 A brake housing 1017 is attached to a service vehicle and is actuated by a brake cable 1015 threaded through an inlet in the brake housing. The brake cable 1015 is actuated by applying a force 1200 to a brake push rod 1201. The brake push rod 1201 is coupled to the brake cable 1015 and provides a normal force opposite to the direction 1200 via a compression spring 1203. The force is transmitted from the brake push rod 1201 to a shoulder bolt 1207 and a brake pad 1209, where the brake pad 1209 is coupled to the brake push rod 1201 using the shoulder bolt 1207. When the force 1200 is absent, the compression spring 1203 provides a normal force that causes the brake pad 1209 to contact the wheel 115. Therefore, a force 1200 needs to be applied via the brake cable 1015 to separate the brake pad 1209 and allow the wheel 115 to move freely. In the depicted embodiment, wheel 115 includes a caster capable of rotating about an axis parallel to brake push rod 1201; however, other embodiments may include other configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. By way of example and not limitation, wheel 115 may rotate 360 ​​degrees about this axis; however, other embodiments may include other configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. In the depicted embodiment, brake pad 1209 is operable to provide sufficient braking force to the wheel to stabilize service vehicle 100 under load, in conjunction with other similar brakes for the wheel (see [link to brake pad description]). Figure 1 (As an example and not a limitation, the depicted embodiments can be used to provide 250 pounds of braking force. Other embodiments may include different configurations of the battery suitable for supplying load to the service vehicle without departing from the teachings disclosed herein.)

[0070] Figure 12 A retaining pin 1211, which is attached to the brake push rod 1201, is also depicted as part of a pin-groove system and is operable to stabilize the position of the brake pad 1209. Figure 13A close-up view is provided of the operation of the pin-groove system, including the retaining pin 1211, relative to the brake housing 1017. The retaining pin 1211 is configured to move within a pin channel 1300 of the brake housing 1017. The pin channel 1300 includes a channel branch 1302 having a proximal end 1304 and a distal end 1306. When a force 1200 is applied to the brake cable 1015, the retaining pin 1211 moves along the pin channel 1300 in the direction 1308, eventually passing through the proximal end 1304 and toward the distal end 1306. When the force 1200 decreases, the retaining pin 1211 will be compressed by a spring 1203 (see...). Figure 12 The pin 1211 is pushed back to its original position in the opposite direction to direction 1308. The widths of the pin channel 1300 and channel branch 1302 are calibrated to provide sufficient space for the free movement of the retaining pin 1211, but only within specified tolerances in any direction other than direction 1308 or its opposite. The calibrated widths of the channel 1300 and channel branch 1302 advantageously stabilize the movement of the retaining pin 1211, thereby providing smooth movement during the application of force 1200 and during the return of the retaining pin 1211 to its original position. In addition, the specified width of the branch channel 1302 helps stabilize the movement of the retaining pin 1211 as its displacement passes through the proximal end 1304, thereby allowing small changes in force 1200 without causing the brake pad 1209 (see...) Figure 12 The channel 1300 is reapplied to wheel 115. In the depicted embodiment, channel 1300 includes an inclined L-shaped channel with channel branch 1302, but other embodiments may include other configurations of channel 1300 and channel branch 1302 without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. Some embodiments may not include one or more of the retaining pin 1211, channel 1300, or channel branch 1302 without departing from the teachings disclosed herein.

[0071] As mentioned above Figure 12 The wheel 115 can rotate about an axis parallel to the brake push rod 1201. Because the brake pad 1209 is more efficient when more of its surface is in contact with the wheel 115, it is advantageous for the brake pad 1209 to rotate together with the wheel 115. Therefore, the brake pad 1209 can be configured to rotate about the same axis with the same degree of freedom as the wheel 115. In the depicted embodiment, the brake pad 1209 may include 360 ​​degrees of freedom to rotate about this axis, but other embodiments may include other configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. Figure 14A view is provided of an embodiment of a wheel 115 having multiple wheel forks 1401. In the depicted embodiment, the wheel forks 1401 are configured to be bolted to the wheel 115 at their axis of rotation; however, other embodiments may include different configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. The wheel forks 1401 are arranged to provide a gentle rotational force about their axis of rotation against the brake pad 1209 whenever the wheel 115 rotates about the same path. By way of example and not limitation, in the depicted embodiment, the wheel forks 1401 are configured to cause the brake pad 1209 to rotate about a direction of rotation 1402 whenever the wheel 115 rotates about a direction of rotation 1404. It is noteworthy that the directions of rotation 1402 and 1404 are parallel about the same axis of rotation, and therefore the brake pad 1209 will rotate such that it is substantially aligned with the wheel 115 in any of its arrangements, thereby optimizing braking force when the brake pad 1209 engages with the wheel 115.

[0072] When powered by an electric battery, a service vehicle can contain a significant amount of weight that is difficult to move. Therefore, it is advantageous for the service vehicle to be configured to receive assistance from external tools that are suitable for reducing the workload required for technicians to move the full weight of the loaded vehicle, such as a towing or tractor unit. Figure 15 A top-down view of service vehicle 100 is provided, which differs from... Figure 1 The angle provided shows the arrangement of the towing attachment 117 around the service vehicle 100. (As mentioned above...) Figure 1 As shown, Figure 15 One embodiment is depicted in which each of the plurality of towing hooks 117 is operatively disposed on one of the first set of support members 105 or the first set of transverse members 109; however, other embodiments may have different configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. Other such embodiments may include configurations with different numbers of towing hooks 117, different arrangements of one or more towing hooks 117, or some combination thereof. Figure 15A top view of an external towing device 1500 operatively coupled to one of the towing hooks 117 is also illustrated. In the depicted embodiment, the external towing device 1500 includes a manually operated electric towing device, but other devices may be utilized without departing from the teachings of this disclosure. Other such external towing devices may include electric towing devices, hydraulic towing devices, pneumatic towing devices, towing devices operated using an internal combustion engine, or any other similar devices powered by mechanisms known to those skilled in the art without departing from the teachings of this disclosure. In some configurations, the external towing device may be configured as a “trailer” that is well-suited to applying a pulling force in an orthogonal direction away from the service vehicle 100, although in the depicted embodiment, the external towing device is well-suited to providing such a force as well as a thrust in an orthogonal direction toward the service vehicle 100. The external towing device may advantageously be specified at wheel 115 (see wheel 117). Figure 1 When the brakes of the external traction device 1500 disengage, it provides sufficient external force to move the vehicle under load. By way of example and not limitation, the external traction device 1500 may be operable to provide sufficient external force to move a load of at least 1,000 pounds, but may also be operable to provide sufficient external force to move a load of at least 3,000-5,000 pounds without departing from the teachings disclosed herein.

[0073] Figure 15 The illustration also shows a towing handle 1501 of the external towing device 1500, which a technician can use to apply a push / pull force amplified by the external towing device 1500 to the service vehicle 100, and to manipulate the external towing device to provide this force in a desired orientation, thereby moving the service vehicle 100 in a desired direction. In the depicted embodiment, multiple external towing devices 1500 can be coupled at different towing hooks 117, allowing multiple technicians to move the vehicle under load using multiple such devices. This arrangement can advantageously allow the use of external towing devices to move vehicles under very heavy loads, where each external towing device is insufficient to move the entire weight of the loaded vehicle individually, thereby improving technician safety and the lifespan of the external towing devices. In the depicted embodiment, the external towing device is detachably coupled to the towing hook 117, and without departing from the teachings of this disclosure, it can be detachably coupled to any towing hook 117 in this embodiment or other embodiments.

[0074] Figure 16AA close-up view of the components including the towing coupling 117 and the external towing device 1500. The towing coupling 117 includes a pair of coupling flanges 1607 for providing support for the coupling components of the external towing device 1500. Each coupling flange 1607 includes an elongated hole 1609. The detachable engagement of the external towing device 1500 is achieved via a pin engagement using coupling pins 1611, wherein the elongated holes 1609 are substantially aligned to receive coupling pins 1611 inserted through each coupling flange 1607. During the engagement of the external towing device 1500 with the service vehicle 100, the hook pin 1611 is additionally inserted through a plurality of pin receivers 1613 of the external towing device 1500, each pin receiver 1613 having a pin hole 1615 configured to receive the hook pin 1611 and substantially aligned to accommodate the insertion of the hook pin 1611 through both during engagement.

[0075] The pin receiver 1613 is mounted on the hook-up bracket 1617, which has a bracket collar 1619 that operatively connects the hook-up bracket 1617 to the remainder of the external towing device 1500. The hook-up bracket 1617 also includes a receiving surface 1621, which is operatively operable to engage with a component of the service vehicle 100 when the external towing device 1500 is engaged with the towing hook-up 107. In this illustration, the specific component is the transverse member 109, but without departing from the teachings of this disclosure, the hook-up bracket 1617 is also adapted to engage with the support member 105 of the service vehicle 100 (see [reference needed]). Figure 1 (Connection)

[0076] The receiving surface 1621 further includes a plurality of compression ramps 1623 configured to provide cushioning and specific friction between the receiving surface 1621 and the transverse members 109 or support members 105 of the service vehicle 100 during engagement. In the depicted embodiment, the compression ramps 1623 offer several advantages when the service vehicle 100 is engaged with the external towing device 1500. In a first advantage, the shape of the compression ramps 1623 facilitates the gradual transfer of weight from the service vehicle 100 to the external towing device 1500. In a second advantage, the material composition of the compression ramps 1623 can be selected to control friction between the receiving surface 1621 and the service vehicle 100 during engagement. By way of example and not limitation, the compression ramps 1623 in the depicted embodiment may be made of polymers, but other materials may be used for other configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. The material can be selected such that friction between the service cart 100 and the receiving surface 1621 is minimized during engagement and disengagement, but is still sufficient to generate an effective transfer of force from the external traction device 1500 to the service cart 100 during engagement. In a third, additional advantage, this material selection minimizes scratching or other surface damage to the portion of the service cart 100 that contacts the compression ramp 1623, while increasing cushioning and friction compared to metal components such as the receiving surface 1621.

[0077] The added buffer between the receiving surface 1621 and the compression ramp 1623 advantageously stabilizes the connection and further protects the surface appearance and structural integrity of the service vehicle 100 and the mounting bracket 1617, while also helping to reduce corrosion caused by surface defects in the friction mating, which advantageously improves the service life of both the service vehicle 100 and the external towing device 1500. Additional aspects of the compression ramp 1623 will be described below with reference to FIG17.

[0078] In the depicted embodiment, the mounting bracket 1617 includes a mounting component for the external traction device 1500, and a bracket collar 1617 connects the mounting bracket 1617 to a drive component of the external traction device. The drive component includes a plurality of simple wheels 1631 operable to provide rolling force in a direction tangential to their rotation. The external traction device 1500 also includes a steering wheel 1633 operable to allow a technician to steer the external traction device 1500. The steering wheel 1633 is a caster operable in response to a technician applying force to the traction handle 1501 (not shown, see...). Figure 15The pivoting force of the wheel 1631 allows it to rotate and provides pivoting adjustment. Combined, the simple wheel 1631 and steering wheel 1633 are operable to allow the user to manipulate both the external towing device 1500 and the service vehicle 100 (when attached) by applying thrust and pull at different angles relative to the axis defined by the hook pin 1611 when engaged. These forces are transmitted from the towing handle 1501 to the wheel via the handle lever 1635.

[0079] Figure 16B This is an illustration of the external traction device 1500 during active engagement with the traction coupling 117. In the depicted embodiment, the coupling pin 1611 is inserted through all connecting flanges 1607 and pin receivers 1613, and the compression ramp 1623 (not shown) has abutted against the underside of the transverse member 109. The depicted coupling is detachable, and the coupling pin 1611 can be removed at any time to detach the external traction device 1500 from the traction coupling 117, thereby allowing the compression ramp 1623 to disengage from the underside of the transverse member 109 when the external traction device 1500 is pulled away from the frame of the service vehicle 100.

[0080] It should also be noted that the external towing device 1500 includes a prime mover 1637 adapted to apply rotational force to a simple wheel 1631 in response to a pulling or pushing force applied via the towing handle 1501. In the depicted embodiment, the prime mover 1637 is arranged within an L-shaped curve of the handle lever 1635, but other embodiments may include different arrangements without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. In the depicted embodiment, the prime mover 1637 is depicted transparently to avoid obstruction of other components of the external towing device 1500. In the depicted embodiment, the prime mover 1637 may include an electric motor, but other embodiments may include different configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. Other such external embodiments may include hydraulic systems, pneumatic systems, combustion motors, hybrid motors, or any other similar devices powered by mechanisms known to those skilled in the art without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. In the depicted embodiment, the external towing device 1500 can provide sufficient force to move a service vehicle weighing more than 1000 pounds under load. In some embodiments, without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, the external towing device 1500 can provide sufficient force to move a service vehicle weighing 3,000-5,000 pounds when under load.

[0081] Figure 17A and Figure 17BA cross-sectional view is provided of a portion of the service vehicle 100 and a portion of the external towing device 1500 at a uniform distance between each hook-up flange 1607, showing a plane that bisects the towing hook-up 117. The depicted plane also bisects the external towing device 1500 at a uniform distance between each simple wheel 1633. Figure 17A Illustrations of the two devices before connection are provided, and Figure 17B A diagram is provided showing the connection of the two devices.

[0082] exist Figure 17A In this configuration, the handle lever 1635 extends upward into the bracket collar 1619 of the hook-up bracket 1617, thereby allowing the hook-up bracket 1617 to rotate about an axis defined by the longitudinal center of the extension. Within the bracket collar 1619, a compression spring 1701 provides a normal upward force and, on the underside of the receiving surface 1621, presses upward against the compression ramp 1623. The normal upward force of the compression spring 1701 advantageously allows for a lower minimum coefficient of friction between the compression ramp 1623 and the service vehicle 100 along direction 1702, thereby simplifying the engagement and disengagement process while maintaining a basic level of traction between them during engagement. When the external traction device 1500 moves along direction 1702 to engage the hook-up, the weight of the service vehicle 100 is received by the compression ramp 1623, thereby generating a downward force 1704 that resists the normal upward force of the compression spring 1701.

[0083] exist Figure 17B In this configuration, the hook pin 1611 is inserted into each hook flange 1607 and pin receiver 1613, while the underside of the transverse member 109 transfers some of the weight of the service vehicle 100 to the compression ramp 1623, thereby compressing the compression spring 1701 to some extent and increasing the stability of the pin mounting mechanism via friction between the compression ramp 1623 and the transverse member 109. Although the compression spring 1701 is compressed in this illustration, it should be noted that the hook bracket 1617 can still rotate about the axis of the extension of the handle rod 1635, allowing technicians to adjust the angle at which the external towing device 1500 applies a push or pull force to the service vehicle 100. As shown above with respect to Figure 16, this connection is detachable, and the hook pin 1611 can be removed at any time to allow the external towing device 1500 to be separated from the service vehicle 100.

[0084] While exemplary embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are not intended to describe all possible forms of the disclosed devices and methods. Rather, the language used in this specification is descriptive rather than limiting, and it should be understood that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Features of various embodiments may be combined to form further embodiments of the disclosed concepts.

Claims

1. A service vehicle, comprising: A frame comprising a plurality of first support members, a plurality of second support members, a plurality of supporting members, a plurality of first transverse members, and a plurality of second transverse members, wherein each of the supporting members is disposed between the first support members and the second support members, each of the first transverse members is disposed between each of the plurality of first support members, and each of the second transverse members is disposed between each of the plurality of second support members. A first number of wheels, each wheel being operatively connected to at least one of the first support members or one of the first transverse members; A second number of wheel locks with brakes, each of the wheel locks being operably coupled to one of the first number of wheels and configured to apply braking force to its respective wheel when its brakes are engaged; and At least one of the second transverse members includes a support pad configured to provide support force within a specified tolerance in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal orientation of the support member. The support pad has a rod collar with a collar opening configured to receive a fracture pin, the fracture pin being configured to be inserted into the collar opening and to fracture when subjected to a shear force above a specified threshold.

2. The service vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The support pad also includes a rod bolt configured to be received by the rod collar and having a rod opening configured to form a through hole when aligned with the collar opening, wherein the break pin is configured to be inserted into the through hole formed by the rod opening and the collar opening.

3. The service vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The fracture pin is configured to generate an audible signal upon fracture.

4. The service vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The rod collar includes a first surface, and the support pad further includes a rod bolt having a second surface and a rod opening configured to receive the broken pin. The rod bolt is received by the rod collar such that the broken pin is inserted into both the collar opening and the rod opening, while the first surface and the second surface maintain a minimum separation distance.

5. The service vehicle according to claim 4, wherein, The first surface and the second surface come into direct contact in response to the breakage of the fracture pin.

6. The service vehicle according to claim 5, wherein, The first surface and the second surface form a circuit when they are in direct contact.

7. The service vehicle according to claim 6, wherein, When the circuit is closed, it powers the visual indicator.

8. The service vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The service vehicle also includes: The handle mounting piece is connected to the first support member of the first transverse member; and A handle, which is configured to be detachably attached to the handle mount. The handle includes a push rod, and the brake is selectively engaged depending on the position of the push rod.

9. The service vehicle according to claim 7, wherein, Each of the brakes includes a normally engaged configuration.

10. The service vehicle of claim 1, further comprising a towing attachment disposed on the frame, the towing attachment being operable to detachably connect the frame to an external towing device having the attachment bracket by connecting the towing attachment and the attachment bracket.

11. The service vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The first transverse member includes a locking connector, and the plurality of second transverse members are folded second transverse members, each including a locking connector, wherein when the locking connector is disengaged, the first transverse member and the folded second transverse member are each operable to adjust their respective connection angles relative to their respective support members.

12. The service vehicle according to claim 11, wherein, At least one of the locking joints includes a spring-loaded pin lock.

13. The service vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, At least one of the second transverse members is an adjustable transverse member configured to be longitudinally disposed between two of the second support members at an angle orthogonal to each of the second support members within a specified tolerance, and wherein each adjustable transverse member includes a support pad configured to provide support force in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal orientation of the support member within a specified tolerance.

14. The service vehicle according to claim 12, wherein, Each of the support pads is configured to be longitudinally arranged adjustablely relative to its corresponding second transverse member.

15. The service vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the frame comprises two first support members, two second support members, six support members, three first transverse members, and at least three second transverse members.

16. The service vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The frame is designed to support a load of at least 3,000 pounds.

17. The service vehicle according to claim 16, wherein, The frame is designed to support a load of at least 5,000 pounds.

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