Safety locking system and lifting device including a safety locking system

Abstract

A safety latch system (200) includes a mounting member (208), a pawl member (214), a ratchet member (202), and a release assembly. The mounting member can be mounted on a housing (142) of a piston. The pawl member is coupled to the mounting member. The pawl member includes a pawl. The ratchet member has a first side wall, the first side wall includes a first connecting portion that can be connected to an end portion of a piston rod (144) of the piston. The first side wall includes a tooth portion, the tooth portion is configured to engage with the pawl. The release assembly is configured to provide an engaged state between the pawl member and the ratchet member. The release assembly is also configured to provide a disengaged state between the pawl member and the ratchet member. When in the engaged state, the pawl member engages with the ratchet member such that the safety latch system is configured to provide (i) an unlocked state in which the ratchet member is movable relative to the pawl member when the piston rod is advanced outwardly from the housing and (ii) a locked state in which the pawl member is configured to lock into a recess between adjacent teeth of the ratchet member to prevent the piston rod from moving toward the housing. When in the disengaged state, the pawl member disengages from the ratchet member to permit the piston rod to be advanced outwardly from the housing and permit the piston rod to be retracted toward the housing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a safety locking system. Background Art

[0002] Generally, scissor lifts are configured to provide a platform that can be moved to different heights via folding supports controlled, for example, by a hydraulic or pneumatic system. However, there may be situations in which such a scissor lift may be lowered unintentionally and / or in an unsafe manner. For example, in the event of a malfunction of the hydraulic or pneumatic system, the scissor lift may accidentally slam downward, which may result in an unsafe situation and / or damage to an object while it is on the platform. Summary of the invention

[0003] The following is the summary of certain embodiments described in detail below. The aspects described are presented only to provide the reader with a brief overview of these certain embodiments and the description of these aspects is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. In fact, the present disclosure may encompass various aspects that may not be explicitly stated below.

[0004] According to at least one aspect, a safety latch system includes a mounting member, a pawl member, a ratchet member, and a release assembly. The mounting member can be mounted on a housing of a piston. The pawl member is coupled to the mounting member. The pawl member includes a pawl. The ratchet member has a first sidewall, the first sidewall including a first connection portion that can be connected to an end portion of a piston rod of the piston. The first sidewall includes a tooth portion that is configured to engage with the pawl. The release assembly is configured to provide an engaged state between the pawl member and the ratchet member. The release assembly is also configured to provide a disengaged state between the pawl member and the ratchet member. When in the engaged state, the pawl member engages with the ratchet member so that the safety latch system is configured to provide (i) an unlocked state in which the ratchet member can move relative to the pawl member when the piston rod is pushed outward from the housing and (ii) a locked state in which the pawl member is configured to lock into a recess between adjacent teeth of the ratchet member to prevent the piston rod from moving toward the housing. When in the disengaged state, the pawl member disengages from the ratchet member to permit the piston rod to be advanced outwardly from the housing and to permit the piston rod to be retracted toward the housing.

[0005] According to at least one aspect, a lifting device includes a platform, a scissor lift assembly, an actuator, and a safety latch system. The scissor lift assembly includes a movable leg that supports the platform at various positions along a vertical axis. The actuator includes a piston and a piston rod. The actuator is configured to move the leg so that the platform is provided at various positions along the vertical axis. The safety latch system is configured to provide a safety catch for the leg. The safety latch system includes a mounting, a pawl member, a ratchet member, and a release assembly. The mounting can be mounted on a housing of the piston. The pawl member is coupled to the mounting. The pawl member includes a pawl. The ratchet member has a first side wall, the first side wall including a first connecting portion connected to an end portion of the piston rod. The first side wall includes a toothed portion engaged with the pawl. The ratchet member is configured to (i) move relative to the pawl in an unlocked state when the piston rod is advanced outward from the housing and (ii) lock relative to the pawl in a locked state to prevent the piston rod from moving toward the housing. The release assembly is operably connected to the pawl member. The release assembly is configured to provide an engaged state between the pawl member and the ratchet member and a disengaged state between the pawl member and the ratchet member. When in the engaged state, the pawl member engages with the ratchet member so that the safety latch system is configured to provide the unlocked state and the locked state. When in the disengaged state, the pawl member disengages from the ratchet member to permit the piston rod to be advanced outward from the housing and permit the piston rod to be retracted toward the housing.

[0006] According to at least one aspect, a lifting device includes at least a platform, a leg, an actuator and a safety latch system. The leg supports the platform at various positions along a vertical axis. The actuator includes a piston and a piston rod. The actuator is configured to move the leg so that the platform moves to various positions along the vertical axis. The safety latch system is configured to provide an unlocked state and a locked state. The safety latch system includes a mounting, a pawl member, a ratchet member and a release assembly. The mounting can be mounted on a housing of the piston. The pawl member is connected to the mounting and includes a first pawl and a second pawl. The pawl member is movable to an engaged state and a disengaged state. The ratchet member includes a first side wall having a first tooth portion and a second side wall having a second tooth portion. The ratchet member is configured to provide (i) an unlocked state with the pawl member when in an engaged state, so that the piston rod is configured to move the leg to raise the platform and (ii) a locked state with the pawl member when in an engaged state, so that the piston rod is prevented from moving the leg to lower the platform. The release assembly is configured to transition the pawl member from an engaged state to a disengaged state such that the pawl member is disengaged from the ratchet member to enable the piston rod to move the leg to lower the platform.

[0007] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention are discussed in the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like or similar components throughout the drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 is a diagram of an example of a lifting device with a safety latch system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] Figure 2A is a diagram of an example of a lifting device with a safety latch system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, in which the platform is in a lowest position.

[0010] Figure 2B is an illustration of an example of a lifting device with a safety latch system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the lifting device is in an intermediate position.

[0011] Figure 2C is a diagram of an example of a lifting device with a safety latch system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, in which the platform is in the uppermost position.

[0012] Figure 3A is a perspective view of an example of a ratchet member according to an example embodiment.

[0013] Figure 3B is a side view of an example of a ratchet member according to an example embodiment. Figure 3B Also shown is an enlarged view of some of the teeth of the ratchet member according to an example embodiment.

[0014] Figure 4A is a perspective view of an example of a pawl assembly according to an example embodiment.

[0015] Figure 4B According to an exemplary embodiment Figure 4A A view of one side of the pawl assembly.

[0016] Figure 4C According to an exemplary embodiment Figure 4A A view of the other side of the pawl assembly.

[0017] Figure 4D According to an exemplary embodiment Figure 4A Exploded view of the components of the pawl assembly.

[0018] Figure 5A is a side view of a ratchet member relative to a pawl assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0019] Figure 5B According to an exemplary embodiment Figure 5A Another side view of the ratchet member and pawl assembly.

[0020] Figure 6 is a perspective view and an enlarged view of some components of a release assembly relative to a pawl assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0021] Fig. 7A is a conceptual diagram illustrating a state of a safety latch system when a lever is not activated according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0022] Figure 7B is a conceptual diagram illustrating a state of a safety latch system when a lever is activated according to an exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] The embodiments described herein, which have been shown and described by way of example, and their many advantages will be understood from the foregoing description, and it will be apparent that various changes may be made in the form, construction, and arrangement of components without departing from the disclosed subject matter or without sacrificing one or more of its advantages. Indeed, the described forms of these embodiments are merely illustrative. These embodiments are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, and the following claims are intended to encompass and include such changes and are not limited to the particular forms disclosed, but rather to all modifications, equivalent forms, and alternative forms that fall within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 1 as well as Figure 2A-2C Different views of a lifting device 100 having a safety latch system 200 are shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The lifting device 100 includes a platform 110, a support assembly 120, a base assembly 130, an actuator 140, and a safety latch system 200. For example, as a non-limiting example, in Figure 1 , lift 100 is a propulsion system lift configured to provide a platform 110 as a movable work surface for various components such as electric vehicle batteries, engines, transaxles, fuel tanks, suspensions, brackets, chassis components, powertrains, any suitable objects, or any combination thereof.

[0025] The platform 110 is configured to provide a work surface. Figure 1 In the embodiment, the work surface includes a first portion 112 and a second portion 114. The work surface can be adjusted to different lengths along the first axis 10. In this example, the first portion 112 is fixed in place. Meanwhile, the second portion 114 can be moved to different positions along the first axis 10 via rails or any suitable mechanical device and is configured to lock into place at a desired position. The platform 110 can also be moved along a second axis 20 perpendicular to the first axis 10. For example, in Figure 1 , the second axis 20 is a vertical axis. Advantageously, the platform 110 is configured to provide a work surface that is adjustable to different lengths and different heights to accommodate a variety of objects and / or tasks.

[0026] The support assembly 120 is configured to support the platform 110 at various positions along the second axis 20. For example, Figure 1 In the embodiment, the support assembly 120 includes a four-bar linkage structure. The support assembly 120 includes a scissor lift assembly, which includes a folding support member with legs 122, and the legs 122 can be moved to different positions to support the platform 110 at different heights along the second axis 20. As a non-limiting example, for example, the scissor lift assembly includes a first pair of cross legs 122 and a second pair of cross legs 122, which are movable at the joints of the cross portion and the connecting portion. The scissor lift assembly is configured to provide various states, such as a lowered state and a raised state, and an intermediate state positioned between the lowered state and the raised state. In the lowered state, as Figure 2A As shown in , the scissor lift assembly has its legs 122 positioned to provide a platform 110 at a lower height. Figure 2CAs shown in , the scissor lift assembly has its legs 122 positioned to provide the platform 110 at a higher height than the lower height. Likewise, the scissor lift assembly is configured to provide various states in which its legs 122 are positioned at various intermediate positions between the lowered state and the raised state. Figure 2B An example of a scissor lift assembly is shown in an intermediate position between a lower height and an upper height.

[0027] The base assembly 130 includes any suitable structure that provides support to the other components of the lifting device 100. For example, as a non-limiting example, Figure 1 In the embodiment of the present invention, the base assembly 130 includes a frame structure 132. The frame structure 132 includes a set of flanges 134, which are configured to connect with the ends of the actuator 140. Also, in this example, the frame structure 132 includes wheels 136 (e.g., casters) and a steering handle 138, which facilitates the lifting device 100 to be easily moved to various locations. As another example (not shown), the base assembly 130 is a static base or any suitable frame structure that is configured to support other components of the lifting device 100.

[0028] The actuator 140 is a hydraulic system, a pneumatic system, an electronic system, or any suitable actuation system capable of providing the functions described herein. Figure 1 In the embodiment, the actuator 140 is a hydraulic cylinder having one end connected to the base assembly 130 and an opposite end connected to the support assembly 120. Figure 1 In the embodiment, the hydraulic cylinder has a first mounting member at one end of its housing 142 that is fixed to a set of flanges 134 of the base assembly 130, and a second mounting member at one end of its piston rod 144 that is fixed to a set of flanges 124 of the legs 122 of the support assembly 120. This mounting of the hydraulic cylinder enables the hydraulic cylinder to be supported at one end of the housing 142, while enabling movement of the piston rod 144 to drive the legs 122 to various positions to provide the platform 110 at various heights. The actuator 140 is configured to drive the support assembly 120 so that the platform 110 is easily raised or lowered to a desired height by an activation device, which can be any suitable simple machine. For example, in Figure 1 , the activation device is a pedal 146 (or joystick) that is operatively connected to the actuator 140 via a cable 148 .

[0029] The safety latch system 200 is configured to provide a safety locking device for the actuator 140 and / or the support assembly 120. The safety latch system 200 includes at least a ratchet member 202, a pawl assembly 204, and a release assembly 206. The safety latch system 200 is configured to be installed during assembly of the lifting device 100 and / or retrofitted after assembly of the lifting device 100. When installed, the safety latch system 200 is configured to provide an engaged state in which the pawl assembly 204 is engaged with the ratchet member 202 and a disengaged state in which the pawl assembly 204 is disengaged from the ratchet member 202. For example, in Figure 1 , the security latch system 200 is in an engaged state when the release assembly 206 is not activated by the operating lever 230 (or in a default state), and is in a disengaged state when the release assembly 206 is activated via the operating lever 230 .

[0030] In addition, when in the engaged state, the safety latch system 200 is advantageously configured to provide an unlocked state and a locked state. In the unlocked state, the safety latch system 200 is configured to enable the actuator 140 to drive the legs 122 so that the platform 110 can rise. In the locked state, the safety latch system 200 is configured to prevent the actuator 140 and / or the legs 122 from descending so that the platform 110 does not descend or continues to descend beyond a threshold amount (e.g., a predetermined amount of clearance) as a safety measure. In contrast, when in the disengaged state, the safety latch system 200 can switch between the locked state and the unlocked state. For example, when in the disengaged state, the safety latch system 200 is configured to transition from the locked state to the unlocked state so that the legs 122 and / or the piston rod 144 can freely move (e.g., descend and ascend) the platform 110 to various heights because the pawl assembly 204 is disengaged from the ratchet member 202.

[0031] Figure 3A and Figure 3B Various views of a ratchet member 202 according to an exemplary embodiment are illustrated. The ratchet member 202 is an elongated member. In this example, the ratchet member 202 is symmetrical about its longitudinal axis 30. The ratchet member 202 includes a first portion 202A and a second portion 202B. The first portion 202A includes a connection mechanism that enables the ratchet member 202 to be connected to the support assembly 120 and the actuator 140. In this example, the ratchet member 202 includes a through hole 202C that acts as a connection mechanism that enables at least one fastener to secure the ratchet member 202 to the support assembly 120 and the actuator 140.

[0032] For example, Figure 1 As shown in , the ratchet member 202 is configured to receive the set of flanges 124 between its inner side walls. In addition, the set of flanges 124 is configured to receive the end portion of the piston rod 144 between its inner surfaces. Figure 1 As shown in , the piston rod 144, the leg 122, and the ratchet member 202 are fixed to each other by the same mechanical fastener (such as a pin, a retaining ring, any suitable mechanical fastener, or any combination thereof). With this configuration, the actuator 140 is configured to drive the leg 122 and the ratchet member 202 to move according to the movement of the piston rod 144. At the same time, the second portion 202B includes a free end, so that the ratchet member 202 can move according to its attachment to the piston rod 144 and the leg 122 at the first portion 202A. In addition, the ratchet member 202 can include a cutout portion 202D. For example, as Figure 3B As shown in , these cutout portions 202D facilitate providing clearance for the ratchet member 202 relative to adjacent components. In addition, the cutouts 202D provide material saving and cost saving benefits.

[0033] In an exemplary embodiment, the ratchet member 202 is a channel-type structure having a U-shaped or C-shaped cross-section. Figure 3A As shown in , the ratchet member 202 is a three-sided structure that includes a central wall portion 202E extending between a first side wall portion 202F and a second side wall portion 202G. This three-sided configuration provides strength and rigidity to the ratchet member 202. Figure 3A In the embodiment, the ratchet member 202 is a unitary structure, but the ratchet member 202 may include multiple elements forming a unitary structure. The ratchet member 202 includes a material having a high tensile strength. For example, at least Figure 1 as well as Figure 3A-3B In the embodiment of the present invention, the ratchet member 202 includes steel or any suitable material that enables the ratchet member 202 to provide the functionality described herein.

[0034] The central wall portion 202E is between the first side wall portion 202F and the second side wall portion 202G. The central wall portion 202E provides a connection between the first side wall portion 202F and the second side wall portion 202G to ensure that the first side wall portion 202F is aligned with the second side wall portion 202G. The central wall portion 202E is also configured to protect and cover the underlying components from foreign matter (e.g., debris, liquids, other objects, etc.), thereby ensuring the normal operation of the security latch system 200.

[0035] The first side wall portion 202F includes a first tooth portion 202H. The first tooth portion 202H includes a first group of teeth. In addition, the second side wall portion 202G includes a second tooth portion 202I. In this case, each tooth in the second tooth portion 202I corresponds to each tooth in the first tooth portion 202H. Similarly, in this case, the first tooth portion 202H is the same or similar to the second tooth portion 202I, for example, in terms of the number of teeth, tooth shape, position of teeth, etc. The second tooth portion includes a second group of teeth. The second tooth portion 202I is aligned and corresponds to the first tooth portion 202H via the center wall portion 202E. In addition, as Figure 3B As shown in the enlarged view of , each tooth includes a first inclined surface 202J and a second inclined surface 202K, which form a tip 202L. The first inclined surface 202J forms a first angle θ1 relative to the baseline 40 of the tooth. The second inclined surface 202K forms a second angle θ2 relative to the baseline 40 of the tooth. The second angle θ2 is greater than the first angle θ1. In this regard, the second inclined surface 202K is steeper than the first inclined surface 202J. Between each set of adjacent teeth, there is a recess 202M, and when in the locked state, the corresponding pawl can be locked in an appropriate position at the recess 202M.

[0036] Figure 4A-4D Various views of a pawl assembly 204 according to an exemplary embodiment are shown. The pawl assembly 204 includes at least a mounting member 208. For example, in Figure 4A-4D In the embodiment, the mounting member 208 comprises steel or any suitable material that enables the mounting member 208 to provide the functions described herein. The mounting member 208 can be mounted to the housing 142 of the piston at a portion adjacent to the opening through which the piston rod 144 extends and retracts from the housing 142. For example, Figure 4A-4D As shown in , the mounting member 208 is a block having a rectangular cross-section or a substantially rectangular cross-section. The mounting member 208 includes a through hole 208A extending from a first surface 208B to a second surface 208C. The mounting member 208 can be mounted to an exterior portion of the housing 142 by receiving a portion of the actuator 140 and allowing it to pass through the through hole 208A. The mounting member 208 is configured to be fixed to the housing 142 via a fastener (e.g., a set screw, etc.). In addition, as shown in FIG. Figure 4D As shown in FIG. 1 , the mount 208 includes a surface 208D with a hole 208E for receiving a fastener 224 that secures the rod 222 to the mount 208 , such as a set screw or any suitable fastening device.

[0037] The mounting member 208 is configured to be connected to a spring anchor 210. For example, a first surface 208B of the mounting member 208 includes a hole 208F for receiving the spring anchor 210. The spring anchor 210 enables a spring 212 to be mounted to the mounting member 208. The spring anchor 210 enables the spring 212 to be easily adjusted. For example, Figure 6 As shown in , the spring anchor 210 is configured to secure one end of the spring 212 to the mount 208, while the other end of the spring 212 is connected to the pawl member 214. This configuration enables the spring 212 to be fixed at the mount 208 and move with the pawl member 214. Therefore, the spring 212 is configured to bias or urge the pawl member 214 to interact with the ratchet member 202 unless the operating lever 230 is activated. Figure 4A-4D In the embodiment, spring 212 is a tension spring. As other examples, spring 212 may include at least one torsion spring or any suitable mechanical device that provides the functions described herein.

[0038] The mounting member 208 is configured to be connected to the cable support 216. For example, on the second surface 208C, the mounting member 208 includes a hole 208G for receiving a fastener 218 that secures the cable support 216 to the mounting member 208. Figure 4A As shown in FIG. 1 , when mounted to the mounting member 208, the cable bracket 216 has a first portion 216A that receives a fastener 218 that secures the cable bracket 216 to the mounting member 208. Figure 4A As shown in FIG. 1 , the cable bracket 216 includes a second portion 216B extending beyond the surface of the mounting member 208. The second portion 216B is configured to receive the cable connector 220. As such, in this example, the second portion 216B is thicker than the first portion 216A, such as Figure 4D , thereby providing a ledge where the corner portion of the mounting member 208 contacts and / or cooperates with the cable support 216. Figure 4A , Figure 4C-4D and Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 2 , when mounted to the mount 208 , the cable bracket 216 holds the cable connector 220 in a position that enables the cable 232 to be connected to the pawl rod 214E of the pawl member 214 .

[0039] The mounting member 208 is also configured to receive a rod 222 configured to support at least the pawl member 214. The rod 222 is also configured to support the guide member 226. In this regard, for example, the rod 222 includes a material having a high tensile strength. For example, the rod 222 includes cold drawn 1144 steel or any suitable material capable of providing the functions described herein. Figure 4DAs shown in , the mounting member 208 has a through hole 208H extending from the first lateral surface 208I to the second lateral surface 208J. With this configuration, the longitudinal axis of the rod 222 is configured to extend perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the actuator 140. The rod 222 is configured to be longer than the mounting member 208, so that the first end portion of the rod 222 extends beyond the first lateral surface 208I of the mounting member 208, and the second end portion of the rod 222 extends beyond the second lateral surface 208J of the mounting member 208. The rod 222 is configured to receive a fastener 224 configured to secure the rod 222 to the mounting member 208, such as a set screw or any suitable fastening device. For example, in Figure 4D 2, the rod 222 includes a through hole 222A at a central region of the rod 222, so that the fastener 224 can secure the rod 222 to the mount 208 in a stable manner. The rod 222 includes a cylindrical main portion and a secondary portion having a flat surface 222B on at least one end portion to provide a D-shaped cross-section. The cylindrical portion enables the pawl member 214 to rotate to various positions, such as a first position to provide an engaged state and a second position to provide a disengaged state. The flat surface 222B provides an abutment surface to prevent the rod 222 and / or the guide member 226 from rotating relative to each other.

[0040] The mounting member 208 is configured to support the pawl member 214 via an end portion of a rod 222, the end portion of the rod 222 including a circular cross-section and exposed from the mounting member 208. The pawl member 214 includes steel or any suitable material that enables the pawl member 214 to provide the functions described herein. The pawl member 214 includes at least one pawl. For example, in Figure 4A-4D In the embodiment, the pawl member 214 has a plurality of pawls, including a first pawl 214A and a second pawl 214B. Figure 4D As shown in FIG. 2 , the first pawl 214A is identical or substantially identical to the second pawl 214B.

[0041] In an exemplary embodiment, the first pawl 214A has an L shape, which includes a first arm and a second arm. The first pawl 214A includes a first through hole 214C to receive the rod 222 at the portion where the first arm is connected to the second arm. In addition, the first arm includes a tip portion, which has a shape that enables the first pawl 214A to cooperate and mesh with the first tooth 202H at any one of its recesses 202M. The second arm of the first pawl 214A includes an end portion connected to or connected to the pawl rod 214E. Similarly, the second pawl 214B has an L shape, including the first arm and the second arm. The second pawl 214B includes a second through hole 214D to receive the rod 222 at the portion where the first arm is connected to the second arm. In addition, the first arm includes a tip portion, which has a shape that enables the second pawl 214B to cooperate and mesh with the second tooth 202I at any one of its recesses 202M. The second arm of the second pawl 214B includes an end portion connected to or coupled with the pawl lever 214E.

[0042] The first pawl 214A and the second pawl 214B are spaced apart from each other while being connected to each other via the pawl rod 214E. In this regard, the first pawl 214A is configured to be positioned on one side of the mounting member 208, while the second pawl 214B is configured to be positioned on the opposite side of the mounting member 208. More specifically, as Figure 4A-4D As shown in FIG. 2 , the first detent 214A is positioned adjacent to the outer side of the first lateral surface 208I, while the second detent 214B is positioned adjacent to the outer side of the second lateral surface 208J.

[0043] Each of the first pawl 214A and the second pawl 214B is configured to interact with the ratchet member 202. Figure 4A As shown in FIG. 2 , when connected to the mounting member 208, the first pawl 214A and the second pawl 214 are each configured to extend beyond the first surface 208B of the mounting member 208. For example, as shown in FIG. Figure 4A and Fig. 7A As shown in , when in the engaged state, the pawl member 214 is configured to rotate to at least a first position in which the first edge 214G of the first pawl 214A and the second edge 214H of the second pawl 214B are angled relative to at least the first surface 208B so that they can interact with the first tooth 202H and the second tooth 202I of the ratchet member 202. Similarly, as shown in at least Figure 7B As shown in the figure, when in the disengaged state, the pawl member 214 is configured to rotate to at least a second position, in which the first edge 214G and the second edge 214H are perpendicular (or substantially perpendicular) relative to at least the first surface 208B, so that they are spaced apart and disengaged from the first tooth portion 202H and the second tooth portion 202I of the ratchet member 202.

[0044] In this example, the first pawl 214A and the second pawl 214B are configured to move together in unison. The pawl member 214 includes a pawl lever 214E (or any suitable mechanical device) extending between the first pawl 214A and the second pawl 214B. The pawl lever 214E connects the first pawl 214A and the second pawl 214B to each other. The pawl lever 214E also aligns the first pawl 214A with the second pawl 214B. The pawl lever 214E provides the following structure: with the structure, the release assembly 206 can be connected to the pawl member 214 to control its state (e.g., engaged state and disengaged state). For example, in Figure 4D In the embodiment, the claw lever 214E includes a cable 232 ( Figure 6 ) through hole 214F. The claw rod 214E also includes a groove 214G to enable the spring 212 to be connected to the pawl member 214 to control the pawl member 214. Similarly, as Figure 4A-4C As shown in , when the pawl member 214 is mounted on the mounting member 208, the pawl member 214 is configured so that its pawl rod 214E extends below the mounting member 208 with sufficient clearance to enable the pawl rod 214E to move according to the release system 206 and the spring 212, respectively. In addition, the pawl member 214 is configured so that when the pawl member 214 is in the first position and the engaged state, the pawl rod 214E of the pawl member is positioned closer to the spring anchor 210 than when the pawl member 214 is in the second position and the disengaged state.

[0045] The pawl assembly 204 includes a guide member 226. The guide member 226 is configured to guide the ratchet member 202 relative to the pawl member 214 when the ratchet member 202 moves with the actuator 140 and / or the leg 122. The guide member 226 is configured to guide and align the ratchet member 202 and the pawl member 214 so that the first tooth 202H interacts with the first pawl 214A and the second tooth 202I interacts with the second pawl 214B, respectively. The guide member 226 includes steel or any suitable material that enables the guide member 226 to provide the functions described herein.

[0046] The guide member 226 is a three-sided structure, including a first side 226A, a second side 226B, and a third side 226C. The guide member 226 includes a rounded inner corner portion, which is configured to provide some clearance for the ratchet member 202, so that the ratchet member 202 is configured to move relative to the guide member 226 without interference. In addition, the mounting member 208 is also configured to include a chamfered edge 208K to provide some clearance for the ratchet member 202, so that the ratchet member 202 is configured to move relative to the guide member 226 without interference from the mounting member 208.

[0047] The guide member 226 includes a first connection portion 226D and a second connection portion 226E. Figure 4D In the example shown in FIG. 2 , the first connection portion 226D includes a through hole of a circular shape to correspond to the cylindrical portion of the rod 222. The first connection portion 226D is not limited to this shape and may include any suitable shape according to the corresponding portion of the rod 222. The second connection portion 226E includes a D-shaped through hole to correspond to the D-shaped portion of the rod 222. The D-shaped shape provides a flat surface 226F for the third side 226C, and the flat surface 226F is configured to prevent the rotation of the guide member 226 when the flat surface 226F abuts against the flat surface 222B of the rod 222. In addition, in the illustrated example, the pawl member 214 and the guide member 226 are fixed to the rod 222 via the fastener 228. Alternatively, as long as the guide member 214 is configured to provide the same function as described herein, the guide member 226 can be fixed to the mounting member 208 separately from the pawl member 214.

[0048] Figure 5A and 5B A view of the ratchet member 202 relative to the pawl assembly 204 is shown. As described above, the ratchet member 202 is configured to move relative to the pawl member 214. For example, the ratchet member 202 is configured to move with the piston rod 144 as the piston rod 144 is advanced outward from the housing 142. In this regard, for example, the ratchet member 202 is configured to move relative to the pawl assembly 204 in at least the first direction 50. When the ratchet member 202 is driven by the piston rod 144 as the piston rod 144 is advanced outward from the housing 142, the first pawl 214A slides upward and over the inclined edge of the first tooth portion 202H, wherein the spring 212 forces the first pawl 214A into (usually with an audible 'click') a recess 202M between a set of adjacent teeth as the first pawl 214A passes over the tip portion (or peak) of each tooth in the first tooth portion 202H. In addition, when the ratchet member 202 is driven by the piston rod 144 as the piston rod 144 is pushed outward from the housing 142, the second pawl 214B slides upward and passes over the inclined edge of the second tooth portion 202I, wherein the spring 212 forces the second pawl 214B to enter (usually with an audible 'click') into a recess 202M between a set of adjacent teeth as the second pawl 214B passes over the tip portion (or peak) of each tooth in the second tooth portion 202I.

[0049] In addition, when the safety latch system 200 is in the disengaged state via the operating lever 230, the ratchet member 202 is configured to move with the piston rod 144 when the piston rod 144 is retracted toward the housing 142. In this regard, the ratchet member 202 is configured to move in at least a second direction 60 opposite to at least the first direction 50. In contrast, when the safety latch system 200 is in the engaged state via the operating lever 230, the first pawl 214A is configured to capture or abut against a first inclined surface 202J of a first tooth encountered by the first pawl 214A in the first tooth portion 202H when the piston rod 144 begins to retract or move toward the housing 142 and the mounting member 208. In addition, the second pawl 214B is configured to capture or abut against a first inclined surface 202J of a first tooth encountered by the second pawl 214B in the second tooth portion 202I when the piston rod 144 begins to retract or move toward the housing 142 and the mounting member 208. More specifically, the spring 212 is configured to bias the first pawl 214A and the second pawl 214B into the recess 202M between a set of adjacent teeth in the first tooth portion 202H and the second tooth portion 202I, respectively, so that the first pawl 214A and the second pawl 214B prevent the ratchet member 202 (and therefore the piston rod 144) from retracting or moving toward the housing 142 and the mounting member 208. In this case, the first pawl 214A is engaged between a set of adjacent teeth in the first tooth portion 202H, and the second pawl 214B is engaged between a set of adjacent teeth in the second tooth portion 202I. This locked state (which includes the engagement or mating action of the ratchet member 202 and the pawl member 214) provides a safety measure by preventing at least the actuator 140, the support assembly 120, and the platform 110 from being lowered or continued to be lowered.

[0050] Additionally, the movement of the ratchet member 202 relative to the pawl member 214 is shown at least in FIG. Figure 2A-2C More specifically, Figure 2A-2C In the embodiment, as described above, the ratchet member 202 has one end connected to the piston rod 144 and the leg 122, while leaving the opposite end free, so that the ratchet member 202 can move with the piston rod 144 and / or the leg 122. At the same time, the pawl member 214 is mounted to the piston housing 142 via the mounting 208, and is thus fixed in its appropriate position along the actuator 140, but can be rotated to at least a first position to provide an engaged state in which the pawl member 214 is engaged with the ratchet member 202 and a second position to provide a disengaged state in which the pawl member 214 is disengaged from the ratchet member 202.

[0051] With this configuration, the ratchet member 202 is configured to move relative to the pawl assembly 204 (and thus the pawl member 214). Figure 2AIn the embodiment, the pawl assembly 204 is positioned at the end portion of the ratchet member 202. In this case, the piston rod 144 is disposed and / or retracted within the housing 142 so that the end of the first portion 202A of the ratchet member 202 is located near the fixed position of the mounting member 208 on the housing 142. As another example, Figure 2B The ratchet member 202 is shown in FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B , wherein the ratchet member 202 has been moved from its position in the first direction 50 according to the movement of the piston rod 144 in the first direction 50 (or the extension of the piston rod 144 from the housing 142). Figure 2A Move to its position at Figure 2B The position of the pawl assembly 204 is the case where the pawl assembly 204 is positioned at the middle position along the ratchet member 202. In addition, as another example, Figure 2C The figure shows that the ratchet member 202 has been moved from its original position in accordance with the further movement of the piston rod 144 in the first direction 50 (or the further extension of the piston rod 144 from the housing 142). Figure 2B Move to its position at Figure 2C The position at is a condition where the pawl assembly 204 is positioned at the opposite end portion of the ratchet member 202 .

[0052] The release assembly 206 includes at least a lever 230, a cable 232, and a cable stop 234. The lever 230 is configured to be attached via an attachment device 236 ( Figure 7A-7B ) is connected to any suitable part of the lifting device 100 so that the user can easily activate or deactivate the joystick 230. For example, Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 2 , the joystick 230 is configured to be removably coupled to any ferromagnetic component of the lifting device 100 (eg, the steering handle 138 ) via a magnet provided as part of the attachment device 236 . The joystick 230 is operably connected to the cable 232 .

[0053] Figure 6 232 and its connection to the pawl assembly 204 according to an exemplary embodiment. In this example, the cable 232 has a connection to the lever 230 ( Figure 1 ) and connected to the cable connector 220 ( Figure 6 )’s second part. Figure 6 The cable 232 is shown with a protective cover between the lever 230 and the cable connector 220, and without a protective cover between the cable connector 220 and the pawl member 214E. The lever 230 is configured to pull the cable 232 when the lever 230 is activated. The lever 230 is also configured to release its pulling force on the cable 232 when the lever 230 is not activated. The cable support 216 is configured to provide stable support for the cable 232 relative to the mounting member 208. The cable 232 is operably connected to the pawl member 214 to be pulled when the lever 230 is activated ( Figure 7B) transmits its pulling force on the cable 232 to the pawl member 214, and when the operating lever 230 is deactivated ( Fig. 7A ) releases its pulling force on the cable 232 to the pawl member 214. For example, Figure 6 In the embodiment, the cable 232 is connected to the middle section of the claw lever 214E by passing through the through hole 214F of the claw lever 214E and being fastened by a fastener 234 (e.g., a cable stopper). Therefore, the operating lever 230 is configured to control the movement of the claw lever 214E via the cable 232, so that the pawl member 214 rotates around the rod 222 to a position for providing at least an engaged state relative to the ratchet member 202 and another position for providing a disengaged state relative to the ratchet member 202.

[0054] Fig. 7A and Figure 7B 2 shows different states of the release assembly 206 according to an exemplary embodiment. When the joystick 230 is deactivated (ie, in an unactivated state or a default state), as shown in FIG. Fig. 7A As shown in FIG, the lever 230 is configured to release its pulling force on the pawl member 214 via the cable 232, so that the spring 212 pushes the pawl member 214 to engage with the ratchet member 202. When in this engaged state, the pawl member 214 rotates around the rod 222, so that the first pawl 214A and the second pawl 214B interact with the first tooth portion 202H and the second tooth portion 202I of the ratchet member 202, respectively. When in this engaged state, the safety latch system 200 enables the scissor lift assembly to (i) rise and raise the platform 110, (ii) maintain the height of the platform 110, and (iii) provide a safety locking device to prevent the platform 110 from being lowered.

[0055] In contrast, when the joystick 230 is activated, Figure 7B As shown in FIG. 2 , the operating lever 230 is configured to pull the pawl member 214 via the cable 232 so that the pawl member 214 is disengaged from the ratchet member 202. More specifically, as shown in FIG. Figure 7BAs shown in, for example, the pawl member 214 is configured to rotate so that its first edge 214G and its second edge 214H become parallel or substantially parallel to the baseline 40 of the first tooth portion 202H and the second tooth portion 202I, respectively. When the pawl member 214 rotates forward and enters this position via the tension of the cable 232 on the pawl rod 214E, the tip of the first pawl 214A and the tip of the second pawl 214B are pulled out of the recess between the adjacent teeth of the corresponding group. This rotation of the pawl member 214 around the rod 222 forms a space between the first pawl 214A and the first tooth portion 202H and a space between the second pawl 214B and the second tooth portion 202I, thereby disengaging the safety latch system 200 and enabling the lifting device 100 to move freely. When in this disengaged state, the safety latch system 200 enables the scissor lift assembly to (i) raise and raise the platform 110 and (ii) lower and lower the platform 110.

[0056] As discussed herein, the safety latch system 200 includes many advantageous features and benefits. For example, the safety latch system 200 is configured to provide a safety locking mechanism to prevent continued descent of the lifting device 100. The safety latch system 200 is connected to the actuator 140 to prevent continued descent of the support assembly 120 (e.g., a scissor lift assembly) in the event of a failure of the actuator 140 or an accidental retraction of the piston rod 144. Advantageously, the safety latch system 200 is modular and configured to be retrofitted to a variety of scissor lift systems or other suitable lifting systems.

[0057] That is, the above description is intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive, and is provided in the context of a specific application and its requirements. According to the foregoing description, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the present invention can be implemented in various forms, and various embodiments can be implemented individually or in combination. Therefore, although embodiments of the present invention have been described in conjunction with specific examples of the present invention, the general principles defined herein can be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the described embodiments, and the true scope of the embodiments and / or methods of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments shown and described, because after studying the drawings, the specification and the following claims, various modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, components and functions can be separated or combined differently from the various described embodiments, and can be described using different terms. These and other changes, modifications, additions and improvements can fall within the scope of the present disclosure as defined in the following claims.

Claims

1. A safety latch system, comprising: a mounting member mountable on a housing of the piston; a pawl member coupled to the mount, the pawl member having a pawl; a ratchet member having a first side wall including a first connecting portion connectable to an end portion of a piston rod of the piston and a toothed portion configured to engage with the pawl; as well as a release assembly operably connected to the pawl member and configured to provide an engaged state between the pawl member and the ratchet member and a disengaged state between the pawl member and the ratchet member, in, When in the engaged state, the pawl member engages with the ratchet member such that the safety latch system is configured to provide (i) an unlocked state in which the ratchet member is movable relative to the pawl member when the piston rod is advanced outwardly from the housing and (ii) a locked state in which the pawl member is configured to lock into a recess between a set of adjacent teeth of the ratchet member to prevent movement of the piston rod toward the housing; and When in the disengaged state, the pawl member is disengaged from the ratchet member to permit the piston rod to be advanced outwardly from the housing and to permit the piston rod to be retracted toward the housing, Wherein, the safety latch system further includes a guide member coupled to the mounting member, the guide member being configured to (a) guide the movement of the ratchet member relative to the mounting member and (b) support the alignment of the ratchet member relative to the piston rod, wherein the ratchet member is disposed between the guide member and the mounting member.

2. The security latch system of claim 1, wherein: The ratchet member includes a structural channel defined by the first and second side walls, the first and second side walls being connected by a central wall; and The ratchet member is configured to receive the mount between the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

3. The security latch system of claim 2, wherein: The pawl member includes another pawl; the second side wall comprising another tooth portion configured to interact with the another pawl; and The release assembly is configured to push the other pawl out of another recess between another set of adjacent teeth in the other tooth portion at the same time as the release assembly pushes the pawl out of the recess.

4. The security latch system of claim 1, further comprising: a spring connected to the pawl member and the mounting member, Wherein the spring is configured to bias the pawl into the recess between the set of adjacent teeth to provide the locked state when the ratchet member begins to move toward the housing together with the piston.

5. The security latch system of claim 1 , wherein the release assembly comprises: a cable connected to the pawl member; as well as A lever is operably connected to the pawl member via the cable such that activation of the lever pushes the cable to move the pawl member such that the pawl is moved out of the recess between the set of adjacent teeth in the toothed portion.

6. The security latch system of claim 1, wherein: The tooth portion includes a plurality of teeth, each tooth having a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface, the second inclined surface being steeper than the first inclined surface; When the ratchet member moves with the piston rod as the piston rod is advanced outwardly from the housing, the pawl engages with the first inclined surface from the peak of the first tooth toward the recess; and When the ratchet member starts to move together with the piston rod when the piston rod moves toward the housing, the pawl prevents the ratchet member from moving by abutting against the first inclined surface of the first tooth.

7. A lifting device, comprising: platform; a scissor lift assembly having movable legs to support the platform at various positions along a vertical axis; an actuator including a piston and a piston rod, the actuator being configured to move the scissor lift assembly to provide the platform at the various positions; as well as A safety latch system configured to provide a safety locking device for the scissor lift assembly, the safety latch system comprising: a mounting member mountable on a housing of the piston; a pawl member coupled to the mount, the pawl member having a pawl; a ratchet member having a first side wall including a first connecting portion connected to an end portion of the piston rod and a toothed portion engaged with the pawl, the ratchet member being configured to (i) move relative to the pawl in an unlocked state when the piston rod is advanced outward from the housing and (ii) lock relative to the pawl in a locked state to prevent the piston rod from moving toward the housing; and a release assembly operably connected to the pawl member and configured to provide an engaged state between the pawl member and the ratchet member and a disengaged state between the pawl member and the ratchet member, wherein When in the engaged state, the pawl member engages the ratchet member such that the security latch system is configured to provide the unlocked state and the locked state; and When in the disengaged state, the pawl member is disengaged from the ratchet member to permit the piston rod to be advanced outwardly from the housing and to permit the piston rod to be retracted toward the housing, Wherein, the safety latch system further includes a guide member coupled to the mounting member, the guide member being configured to (a) guide the movement of the ratchet member relative to the mounting member and (b) support the alignment of the ratchet member relative to the actuator, wherein the ratchet member is disposed between the guide member and the mounting member.

8. The lifting device according to claim 7, wherein: The ratchet member includes a structural channel defined by the first and second side walls, the first and second side walls being connected by a central wall; and The ratchet member is configured to receive the mount between the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

9. The lifting device according to claim 8, wherein: The pawl member includes another pawl; the second side wall comprising another tooth portion configured to interact with the another pawl; and The release assembly is configured to move the pawl out of a recess between one set of adjacent teeth in the toothed section and to move the other pawl out of another recess between another set of adjacent teeth in the other toothed section.

10. The lifting device according to claim 7, further comprising: a spring connected to the pawl member and the mounting member, Wherein the spring is configured to push the pawl into a recess between a set of adjacent teeth to provide the locked state when the ratchet member begins to move with the piston rod as the piston rod moves toward the housing.

11. The lifting device according to claim 7, wherein the release assembly comprises: a cable connected to the pawl member; as well as A lever is operably connected to the pawl member via the cable such that activation of the lever pushes the cable to move the pawl member such that the pawl is moved out of a recess between a set of adjacent teeth in the toothed portion.

12. The lifting device according to claim 7, wherein: The tooth portion includes a plurality of teeth, each tooth having a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface, the second inclined surface being steeper than the first inclined surface; When the ratchet member moves with the piston rod as the piston rod is advanced outwardly from the housing, the pawl engages with the first inclined surface from the peak of the first tooth toward the recess between the first and second teeth; and When the ratchet member begins to move with the piston rod as the piston rod is retracted toward the housing, the pawl prevents the ratchet member from moving by abutting against the first inclined surface of the first tooth.

13. A lifting device, comprising: platform; legs for supporting the platform at various positions along a vertical axis; an actuator including a piston and a piston rod, the actuator being configured to move the legs so that the platform moves to the various positions; as well as A security latch system for providing an unlocked state and a locked state, the security latch system comprising: a mounting member mountable on a housing of the piston; a pawl member connected to the mounting member and including a first pawl and a second pawl, the pawl member being movable to an engaged state and a disengaged state; a ratchet member comprising a first side wall having a first toothed portion and a second side wall having a second toothed portion, the ratchet member being configured to provide (i) when in the engaged state, the unlocked state with the pawl member such that the piston rod is configured to move the leg to raise the platform and (ii) when in the engaged state, the locked state with the pawl member such that the piston rod is prevented from moving the leg to lower the platform; and a release assembly configured to transition the pawl member from the engaged state to the disengaged state so that the pawl member is disengaged from the ratchet member to enable the piston rod to move the leg to lower the platform, The safety latch system further includes a guide member coupled to the mounting member, the guide member being configured to (a) guide movement of the ratchet member relative to the mounting member and (b) support alignment of the ratchet member relative to the actuator, wherein the ratchet member is disposed between the guide member and the mounting member.

14. The lifting device according to claim 13, wherein: The ratchet member includes a structural channel defined by the first side wall and the second side wall, the first side wall and the second side wall being connected by a central wall; and The ratchet member is configured to receive the mount between the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

15. The lifting device according to claim 13, further comprising: a spring connected to the pawl member and anchored to the mount, Wherein the spring is configured to urge the pawl member into the engaged state relative to the ratchet member such that the pawl member interacts with the ratchet member unless the release assembly is activated.

16. The lifting device of claim 13, wherein the release assembly comprises: a cable connected to the pawl member; as well as and a lever operably connected to the pawl member via the cable such that activation of the lever pushes the cable to move the pawl member such that the first pawl is moved out of a first recess between a first set of adjacent teeth in the first tooth section and the second pawl is moved out of a second recess between a second set of adjacent teeth in the second tooth section.

17. The lifting device of claim 13, wherein the legs are part of a scissor lift assembly.

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