Parking stand system

Abstract

A parking support system (104, 106) for supporting an industrial vehicle (10) on a floor surface (19) in a horizontal position is provided. The parking support system comprises a base section (104) removably attached to a first portion of the vehicle in a first position, and an extension section (106) removably attached to a second portion of the vehicle in a second position, the second position being spaced apart from the first position in a first direction. The first direction is parallel to a vertical axis when the vehicle is in an upright position. The extension section is pivotably coupled to the base section. A parking support system for an industrial vehicle (10) is also provided, comprising a support structure (102) for supporting the vehicle on a floor surface (19) when the vehicle is supported in a horizontal position, the support structure comprising a plurality of wheels (108), and at least one first anchoring structure (150) comprising a first body portion (152) and at least one insertion element (154), wherein the at least one first anchoring structure temporarily fixes the support structure and the vehicle on the floor surface when the vehicle is supported on the support structure in the horizontal position, and the at least one first anchoring structure and the plurality of wheels remain in contact with the floor surface when the at least one first anchoring structure fixes the support structure and the vehicle on the floor surface.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to material handling vehicles, and more particularly, the present disclosure relates to a parking support system for a material handling vehicle. BACKGROUND

[0002] Material handling vehicles, such as forklifts, can include a power unit, a mast assembly, and an operator platform. When transporting between facilities, it is often preferred to park the material handling vehicle on its back or side due to the height of the vehicle when upright. SUMMARY

[0003] According to a first aspect, there is provided a parking support system for supporting an industrial vehicle in a horizontal position on a floor surface. The system comprises a base section removably attachable to a first portion of the vehicle in a first position, and an extension section removably attachable to a second portion of the vehicle in a second position, the second position being spaced apart from the first position in a first direction. The first direction is parallel to a vertical axis of the vehicle when in an upright position. The extension section is pivotably coupled to the base section.

[0004] The base section can comprise a plurality of wheels for facilitating movement of the vehicle on the floor surface when the vehicle is supported in the horizontal position on the parking support system.

[0005] The extension section can comprise a plurality of wheels for facilitating movement of the vehicle on the floor surface when the vehicle is supported in the horizontal position on the parking support system.

[0006] The system can further comprise at least one anchoring structure for temporarily securing the parking support system and the vehicle in place on the floor surface. The at least one anchoring structure can be temporarily coupled to the floor surface and at least one of the base section or the extension section. The anchoring structure can comprise a body portion temporarily couplable to the floor surface and at least one insertion element insertable into a corresponding opening of at least one of the base section or the extension section.

[0007] The base section can comprise at least one curved ramp surface facing away from the vehicle when the base section is secured on the vehicle. The curved ramp surface can support the parking support system and the vehicle on the floor surface when the vehicle is transitioned from the upright position to the horizontal position.

[0008] The extension section can comprise at least one first bar pivotably connected to the base section, and at least one second bar rigidly attached to the at least one first bar and positioned at an angle transverse to the at least one first bar. The at least one second bar can engage the second portion of the vehicle in the second position. The length of the at least one second bar is adjustable.

[0009] The base section can be attachable to a first portion of the vehicle, and the extension section can be attachable to a second portion of the vehicle. When the vehicle is in the horizontal position, the at least one first rod is in a horizontal position, and the at least one second rod is in a vertical position; when the vehicle is in the upright position, the at least one first rod is in a vertical position, and the at least one second rod is in a horizontal position.

[0010] The system can further include a connection mechanism removably coupled to an upper portion of the vehicle, wherein the connection mechanism is actuated to facilitate the conversion of the vehicle between the upright position and the horizontal position.

[0011] The system can further include a plurality of wheel-less support elements for supporting the system when the vehicle is supported thereon. The plurality of wheel-less support elements can include elongated track members, surfaces of which extend along the floor surface when the system supports the vehicle in the horizontal position.

[0012] The system can further include at least one raising / lowering assembly for raising and lowering a positioning portion of the base section between a raised position in which the base section is distanced from the floor surface, and a lowered position in which the base section is proximate to the floor surface.

[0013] According to a second aspect, there is provided a parking rack system for converting an industrial vehicle from a first position to a second position. The system includes a rack structure comprising: a base section removably attachable to a first portion of the vehicle in the first position; and an extension section coupled with the base section and including at least one securing structure removably attachable to a second portion of the vehicle in the second position, the second position being spaced apart from the first position in a first direction. The first direction is parallel to a vertical axis when the vehicle is in an upright position. A length of the extension section is adjustable. The vehicle is converted from the first position to the second position by rotating the rack structure and the vehicle supported thereon relative to a floor surface.

[0014] The base section can include a plurality of wheels for facilitating movement of the vehicle on the floor surface when the vehicle is supported on the parking rack system in the second position.

[0015] The extension section can include a plurality of wheels for facilitating movement of the vehicle on the floor surface when the vehicle is supported on the parking rack system in the second position.

[0016] The system can further include at least one anchoring structure for temporarily securing the parking bracket system and the vehicle in place on the floor surface. The at least one anchoring structure can be temporarily coupled to the floor surface and at least one of the base section or the extension section. The at least one anchoring structure can include a body portion that can be temporarily coupled to the floor surface and at least one insertion element that can be inserted into a corresponding opening of at least one of the base section or the extension section.

[0017] The base section can include at least one curved ramp surface that faces away from the vehicle when the base section is secured on the vehicle. The curved ramp surface supports the parking bracket system and the vehicle on the floor surface when the vehicle is transitioned from the first position to the second position.

[0018] The extension section can include at least one first bar that is connected with the base section.

[0019] The extension section can further include at least one second bar that is rigidly attached with the at least one first bar and positioned at an angle transverse to the at least one first bar. The at least one second bar can engage a second portion of the vehicle in the second position.

[0020] The system can further include a connection mechanism that is removably coupled to an upper portion of the vehicle, wherein the connection mechanism is actuated to facilitate the transition of the vehicle between the first position and the second position.

[0021] The system can further include a plurality of wheel-less support elements for supporting the system when the vehicle is supported on the system. The plurality of wheel-less support elements can include elongated track members having surfaces that extend along the floor surface when the system supports the vehicle in the horizontal position.

[0022] The system can further include at least one raising / lowering assembly for raising and lowering a positioning portion of the base section between a raised position in which the base section is distanced from the floor surface and a lowered position in which the base section is proximate to the floor surface.

[0023] According to a third aspect, there is provided a method of transitioning an industrial vehicle between an upright position and a horizontal position with a parking bracket system. The method includes removably attaching a base section of the parking bracket system to a first portion of the vehicle in a first position, pivoting an extension section of the parking bracket system relative to the base section, and removably attaching the extension section of the parking bracket system to a second portion of the vehicle in a second position. The extension section is pivotably coupled to the base section. The second position is spaced apart from the first position in a first direction that is parallel to a vertical axis when the vehicle is positioned in the upright position. The method further includes transitioning the vehicle from the upright position to the horizontal position by rotating the vehicle and the parking bracket system relative to a floor surface.

[0024] The base section can include at least one curved ramp surface that supports the parking rack system and the vehicle on the floor surface as the vehicle is transitioned from the upright position to the horizontal position.

[0025] The method can further include, after transitioning the vehicle from the upright position to the horizontal position, removably coupling the anchoring structure to the floor surface and removably coupling to at least one of the base section or the extension section to secure the parking rack system and the vehicle supported on the parking rack system in place on the floor surface.

[0026] The extension section can include at least one bar that engages a second portion of the vehicle in the second position. A length of the at least one bar is adjustable.

[0027] Transitioning the vehicle from the upright position to the horizontal position can include removably coupling the connection mechanism to an upper portion of the vehicle; and actuating the connection mechanism to rotate the vehicle and the parking rack relative to the floor surface to transition the vehicle from the upright position to the horizontal position.

[0028] The extension section can include at least one first bar pivotably coupled to the base section and at least one second bar rigidly attached to the at least one first bar and positioned at an angle transverse to the at least one first bar. The at least one second bar can engage a second portion of the vehicle in the second position. Pivoting the extension section relative to the base section can include pivoting the at least one first bar relative to the base section from a horizontal position of the at least one first bar to a vertical position of the at least one first bar.

[0029] The extension section can include a plurality of wheel-less support elements to support the system when the vehicle is supported on the system. The plurality of wheel-less support elements can include an elongate track member having a surface that extends along the floor surface when the system supports the vehicle in the horizontal position.

[0030] The vehicle can be fully supported on the parking rack system once the vehicle is transitioned to the horizontal position.

[0031] The extension section can include at least one wheel, wherein pivoting the extension section can cause the at least one wheel to transition from a floor-engaging position in which the at least one wheel of the extension section engages the floor surface to a non-floor-engaging position in which the at least one wheel of the extension section does not engage the floor surface.

[0032] The extension section can include a plurality of wheel-less support elements to support the system when the vehicle is supported on the system. The plurality of wheel-less support elements can include an elongate track member having a surface that extends along the floor surface when the system supports the vehicle in the horizontal position.

[0033] According to a fourth aspect, a method includes providing a parking rack system on which an industrial vehicle is supported in a horizontal position. The parking rack system includes a base section removably attached to a first portion of the vehicle in a first position and an extension section pivotably connected to the base section and removably attached to a second portion of the vehicle in a second position spaced apart from the first position in a first direction. The first direction is parallel to a vertical axis when the vehicle is in an upright position. The method further includes transitioning the vehicle from the horizontal position to the upright position by rotating the parking rack and the vehicle supported on the parking rack relative to a floor surface. The method further includes detaching the extension section of the parking rack system from the second portion of the vehicle, pivoting the extension section relative to the base section, and detaching the base section of the parking rack system from the first portion of the vehicle.

[0034] The base section can include at least one curved ramp surface that supports the parking rack system and the vehicle on the floor surface when the vehicle is transitioned from the horizontal position to the upright position.

[0035] The extension section can include at least one bar that engages the second portion of the vehicle in the second position. A length of the at least one bar is adjustable.

[0036] Transitioning the vehicle from the horizontal position to the upright position can include removably coupling a connection mechanism to an upper portion of the vehicle and actuating the connection mechanism to rotate the vehicle and the parking rack relative to the floor surface to transition the vehicle from the horizontal position to the upright position.

[0037] The extension section can include at least one first bar pivotably coupled to the base section and at least one second bar rigidly attached to the at least one first bar and positioned at an angle transverse to the at least one first bar. The at least one second bar can engage the second portion of the vehicle in the second position.

[0038] The extension section can include at least one wheel, wherein pivoting the extension section can cause the at least one wheel to transition from a non-floor-engaging position in which the at least one wheel of the extension section does not engage the floor surface to a floor-engaging position in which the at least one wheel of the extension section engages the floor surface.

[0039] The extension section can include a plurality of wheel-less support elements for supporting the system when the vehicle is supported on the system. The plurality of wheel-less support elements can include an elongate track member having a surface that extends along the floor surface when the system supports the vehicle in the horizontal position.

[0040] According to a fifth aspect, a parking rack system for an industrial vehicle is provided. The parking rack system includes a rack structure that supports the vehicle on a floor surface when the vehicle is supported in a horizontal position, wherein the rack structure includes a plurality of wheels. The parking rack system further includes at least one first anchoring structure that includes a first body portion and at least one insertion element. The at least one first anchoring structure temporarily secures the rack structure and the vehicle in place on the floor surface when the vehicle is supported in the horizontal position on the rack structure. The at least one first anchoring structure and the plurality of wheels remain in contact with the floor surface when the at least one first anchoring structure is securing the rack structure and the vehicle in place on the floor surface.

[0041] The at least one insertion element of the at least one first anchoring structure is insertable into a corresponding opening in the rack structure. The opening on the rack structure can be positioned proximate to one of the plurality of wheels.

[0042] The system can further include at least one second anchoring structure that temporarily secures the rack structure and the vehicle in place on the floor surface when the vehicle is supported in the horizontal position on the rack structure. The at least one second anchoring structure can include a second body portion that is temporarily securable to the floor surface and a hook element that is removably attachable to a component of the rack structure.

[0043] The at least one insertion element of the at least one first anchoring structure can be insertable into a corresponding opening in the rack structure in a first rack structure position, and the hook element of the at least one second anchoring structure can be attachable to a component of the rack structure in a second rack structure position. The first rack structure position can be spaced apart from the second rack structure position in a direction parallel to a vertical axis of the vehicle.

[0044] The at least one first anchoring structure can be temporarily coupled to the floor surface by a fastener that engages the at least one first anchoring structure and is removably inserted into the floor surface.

[0045] The rack structure can further include at least one fork holding structure for supporting a fork that has been removed from the vehicle.

[0046] The rack structure can include a nesting structure for supporting a second rack structure.

[0047] The extension section can include a plurality of wheel-less support elements for supporting the system when the vehicle is supported on the system. The plurality of wheel-less support elements can include elongate track members having surfaces that extend along the floor surface when the system supports the vehicle in the horizontal position. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0048] Figure 1 is a side plan view of an industrial vehicle supported in a horizontal position on a parking rack system according to an embodiment;

[0049] Figure 1A is a perspective view of a portion of a rack structure of a parking rack system attached to a vehicle when the vehicle is in a vertical position;

[0050] Figure 1B is a side plan view of a parking rack system attached to a vehicle when the vehicle is in a vertical position;

[0051] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a portion of a vehicle supported on a rack structure;

[0052] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a rack structure;

[0053] Figure 3A is a perspective view of a parking rack system attached to a vehicle;

[0054] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a vehicle supported on a rack structure;

[0055] Figures 5A-5C is a perspective view of an anchoring structure according to an embodiment;

[0056] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a portion of a vehicle attached to a rack structure;

[0057] Figure 7A and 7B shows a method of transitioning a vehicle between a vertical position and a horizontal position using a parking rack system according to an embodiment;

[0058] Figure 8A and 8B shows a method of transitioning a vehicle between a horizontal position and a vertical position using a parking rack system according to an embodiment;

[0059] Figures 9A-9C is a perspective view showing a portion of a rack structure attached to a vehicle according to an embodiment;

[0060] Figures 10A-10C is a perspective view showing a pivoting motion of a portion of a rack structure according to an embodiment;

[0061] Figure 11 is a perspective view showing nesting of a plurality of rack structures according to an embodiment;

[0062] Figure 12is a perspective view of an industrial vehicle supported in a horizontal position on a parking rack system according to an embodiment;

[0063] Figure 12A is a perspective view of a vehicle attached to the rack structure of Figure 12

[0064] Figure 12B is a perspective view of a vehicle attached to the rack structure of Figure 12

[0065] Figure 13 is a perspective view of a portion of the rack structure of Figure 12

[0066] Figure 14 is a perspective view of a portion of the rack structure of Figure 12

[0067] Figure 15 is a perspective view of a portion of the rack structure of Figure 14

[0068] Figure 15A is a perspective view of a portion of the rack structure of Figure 14

[0069] Figure 15B is a perspective view of the rack structure of Figure 14

[0070] Figures 16A-16D is a perspective view showing a portion of a base section of the rack structure of Figure 14

[0071] Figure 17 is a perspective view of a connection mechanism of the parking rack system of Figure 12

[0072] Figure 18A and 18B show a method of transitioning a vehicle between a vertical position and a horizontal position using the parking rack system of Figure 12

[0073] Figure 19A and 19B show a method of transitioning a vehicle between a horizontal position and a vertical position using the parking rack system of Figure 12

[0074] Figure 20 is a perspective view showing nesting of a plurality of rack structures according to an embodiment.​​​​​​​​​​​ DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0075] The following text sets forth a broad description of numerous different embodiments of the disclosure. This description is merely exemplary and is not intended to limit the disclosure to only these embodiments as described. Since many embodiments of the disclosure can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure, the disclosure resides in the claims hereinafter appended. Any feature, characteristic, component, composition, ingredient, product, step, or method described herein can be deleted, combined, or substituted for any other feature, characteristic, component, composition, ingredient, product, step, or method described herein. It is contemplated that various combinations of the described embodiments can be made and that the described embodiments can be combined with other described embodiments. It is further contemplated that many alternatives can be made to the embodiments described herein without departing from the scope of the disclosure. All publications and patents cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0076] Referring now to the drawings, Figure 1 An industrial vehicle 10 (hereinafter "vehicle 10") is shown supported on a parking rack system 100 constructed in accordance with an embodiment. Figure 1 The vehicle 10 shown in the figures is a forklift truck, but the embodiments disclosed herein can be used with any suitable type of industrial vehicle. The vehicle 10 includes a power unit 12 and a load handling assembly 14 having a mast assembly 16. The power unit 12, load handling assembly 14, and mast assembly 16 each include conventional components, which will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, and are not described in detail herein. When the vehicle 10 is in an upright position (also referred to herein as a vertical position), a lower portion 15 of the power unit 12 adjacent to a floor surface 19 defines a first portion 13 of the vehicle 10, see Figure 1A A second portion 17 of the vehicle 10 is spaced apart from the first portion 13 in a first direction F D and is defined by a portion 18 of the mast assembly 16 ranging from near a center of mass of the vehicle 10 (as defined herein, the center of mass of the vehicle 10 is taken when the vehicle 10 is positioned in a horizontal position) to a top of the mast assembly 16, where the first direction F D is parallel to a vertical axis V A , see Figure 1A In the illustrated embodiment, the second portion 17 is positioned generally about the center of mass of the vehicle 10.

[0077] The vehicle 10 is in Figure 1 and Figure 2The vehicle 10 is shown fully supported on the parking rack system 100 in a horizontal position (also referred to herein as a parked position). One of the vertical or horizontal positions of the vehicle 10 can also be referred to herein as a first position, and the other of the vertical or horizontal positions of the vehicle 10 is referred to herein as a second position. The parking rack system 100 (hereinafter "system 100") is used to transition the vehicle 10 from the vertical position to the horizontal position, and vice versa, and to support the vehicle 10 on the floor surface 19 when the vehicle 10 is in the horizontal position, as will be described in detail herein. The system 100 includes a rack structure 102 that includes a base section 104 and an extension section 106 that are pivotably coupled together to form a single structure.

[0078] Referring to Figure 3 The base section 104 of the rack structure 102 includes at least one wheel 108, preferably a pair of wheels 108 spaced apart in the lateral direction L D of the rack structure 102. The wheels 108 are used to move the system 100 when the vehicle 10 is supported on the system 100 in the horizontal position, as will be discussed in greater detail below. According to an embodiment, the wheels 108 can be spaced apart from each other such that the wheels 108 are respectively positioned toward opposite lateral sides 104A, 104B of the base section 104 in order to provide maximum support and stability for the vehicle 10 when the vehicle is supported on the system 100 in the horizontal position. It is contemplated that the base section 104 can include any number of wheels 108.

[0079] The base section 104 also includes at least one curved ramp surface 110 that faces away from the vehicle 10 when the base section 104 is secured to the vehicle 10, see also Figure 1 and Figure 2 The at least one curved ramp surface 110 supports the system 100 and the vehicle 10 on the floor surface 19 when the vehicle 10 is transitioned between the vertical and horizontal positions via the system 100. Figure 3 The illustrated embodiment includes two curved ramp surfaces 110, each ramp surface 110 positioned proximate to a respective wheel 108 in order to provide maximum support and stability for the vehicle 10 when the vehicle is transitioned between the vertical and horizontal positions. The at least one curved ramp surface 110 can include a traction portion 111 (see Figure 2 and Figure 3), to prevent undesired slippage or skidding motion of the support structure 102 and the supported vehicle 10 when the system 100 is used to transition the vehicle 10 between the vertical and horizontal positions. The traction portion 111 can be integrally formed with the curved ramp surface 110, such as a series of corrugations or protrusions formed on the curved ramp surface 110, or the traction portion can be formed separately from the curved ramp surface 110 and applied to the curved ramp surface, such as a friction pad.

[0080] Referring to Figure 6 , the base section 104 also includes a fastening structure, such as one or more bolts B, for removably attaching the base section 104 to the vehicle 10 in a first position. The first position can correspond to the first portion 13 of the vehicle 10, such that the base section 104 can be removably secured to the lower portion 15 of the power unit 12 adjacent to the floor surface 19 when the vehicle 10 is in the upright position. Further details regarding removably attaching the base section 104 to the vehicle 10 will be discussed below.

[0081] As shown in Figure 3 , the base section 104 also includes at least one auxiliary wheel 113, and preferably a plurality of auxiliary wheels 113. The auxiliary wheels 113 are movable between an extended position (see Figure 3 ) and a retracted position (see Figure 4 ). When in the extended position, the auxiliary wheels 113 extend outwardly from the base section 104 over the at least one curved ramp surface 110, while when in the retracted position, the auxiliary wheels 113 are retracted within the base section 104 such that the auxiliary wheels are retracted from the at least one curved ramp surface 110. The auxiliary wheels 113 are used to move the system 100 when the vehicle 10 is not supported on the system 100, and the auxiliary wheels are manually movable between the extended and retracted positions. For example, an operator can use a manual process to move the auxiliary wheels 113 between the extended and retracted positions as desired.

[0082] Still referring to Figure 3 , the extension section 106 of the support structure 102 includes at least one first rod 120, and preferably a pair of first rods 120, each first rod 120 having a first end 122 and a second end 124. Referring to Figures 10A-10C , the first end 122 of the at least one first rod 120 is pivotably connected to the base section 104 by a pivot connection provided by a pivot pin 125. A U-shaped bracket 127 can be provided to limit movement between the at least one first rod 120 and the base section 104, and a removable locking pin 129 can be provided to limit pivoting motion between the at least one first rod 120 and the base section 104 when such pivoting motion is not desired.

[0083] The extension section 106 also includes at least one second bar 126, preferably a pair of second bars 126, each second bar 126 having a first end 128 and a second end 130, see Figure 3 The first end 128 of the at least one second bar 126 is rigidly attached to the second end 124 of the at least one first bar 120 at an angle transverse to the at least one first bar 120, where the angle can be 90 degrees. The second end 130 of the at least one second bar 126 is engaged with the vehicle 10 at a second position, where the second position is spaced apart from the first position in the first direction F D The second position can correspond to the second portion 17 of the vehicle 10, such that the extension section 106 is engaged with the mast assembly 16 near the center of mass of the vehicle 10, see Figure 1B .

[0084] As shown in Figure 3 , the length L of the at least one second bar 126 can be adjustable, such that the distance between its first and second ends 128, 130 can be adjusted, enabling the system 100 to accommodate various different types and / or sizes of industrial vehicles. The length adjustment of the at least one second bar 126 can be achieved, for example, by forming the at least one second bar 126 with two bar members 126A, 126B that are movably securable relative to each other. According to one exemplary embodiment, the first bar member 126A is slidable within the hollow interior portion of the second bar member 126B. The bar members 126A, 126B can be temporarily locked together and prevented from moving relative to each other, for example, with a spring-loaded pin on the first bar member 126A or with a bolt that can be inserted through a selected one of a series of openings formed on the second bar member 126B to adjust the overall length L of the at least one second bar 126.

[0085] The extension section 106 includes a securing structure 132 for temporarily securing the extension section 106 to the vehicle 10 at the second position. The securing structure 132 can include any suitable structure for removably securing the extension section 106 to the vehicle 10 at the second position, such as, for example, a clamping or bolt structure 144 at the second end 130 of one or both second bars 126, or a strap (not shown) secured around a lower portion 18 of the mast assembly 16 and a component of the extension section 106, such as, for example, around the one or more cross bar members 142 of the extension in the lateral direction L D The one or more cross bar members 142 of the extension can also provide stability to the extension section 106.

[0086] The extension segment 106 may also include at least one fork retainer 146 for supporting the forks 23 that have been removed from the vehicle 10 for transport. Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, two sets of fork retainers 146 are provided, connected to the first and second rods 120, 126 of the extension section 106. The extension section 106 may also include at least one fork pin 147 for receiving the fork support structure 23a of the fork 23, see, for example, [link to example]. Figure 3A Fork pin 147 and fork retainer 146 cooperate to secure and support fork 23 during transport of vehicle 10 on system 100. It is conceivable that fork retainer 146 and fork pin 147 can be positioned at other locations on support structure 102 if needed. Extension segment 106 may also include storage compartment 151, such as a mesh bag, for holding tools and / or other items.

[0087] The extension segment 106 also includes at least one wheel 148, preferably included in the lateral direction L D The two wheels spaced apart above, number 148, see Figure 3 Wheel 148 may be a caster with wheel lock 149 for moving system 100 when vehicle 10 is supported on system in a horizontal position, as will be discussed in more detail below. According to an embodiment, wheels 148 may be spaced apart such that they are positioned toward opposing lateral sides 106A, 106B of extension segment 106 to provide maximum support and stability to vehicle 10 when it is supported on system 100 in a horizontal position. It is conceivable that extension segment 106 may include any number of wheels 148.

[0088] Now for reference Figure 2 , 5A In addition to 5B, system 100 may also include at least one anchoring structure that can be used to temporarily secure the support structure 102 and the vehicle 10 supported on the support structure to the floor surface 19 by temporarily attaching the anchoring structure to at least one of the base section 104 and / or extension section 106.

[0089] Figure 5A and 5B The exemplary first anchoring structure 150 shown includes a first body portion 152 that can be temporarily attached to the floor surface 19 at a first floor position F1. The first anchoring structure 150 includes at least one insertion element 154 that can be inserted into a corresponding opening 156 of at least one of the base portion 104 or the extension portion 106. Figure 5A The opening 156 in the bracket structure 102 can be positioned near one of the multiple wheels 108 and 148 at the first bracket position B1, see... Figure 2The first body portion 152 can include a first plate 158 and a second plate 160 positioned at an angle transverse to the first plate 158. The at least one insertion element 154 can be attached to and extend from the second plate 160 of the first body portion 152. According to one embodiment, the first plate 158 can be temporarily secured to the floor surface 19 using fasteners (e.g., nails) that engage the first plate 158, for example, by being inserted through apertures formed in the first plate 158 and removably inserted into the floor surface 19 at the first floor location Fl to temporarily secure the rack structure 102 and the vehicle 10 supported on the rack structure in place on the floor surface 19. According to another embodiment, a block structure (described below with reference to the second anchoring structure 162) can be placed on the first plate 158, and the fasteners can be driven through the block structure and into the floor surface 19. The anchoring structure 150 and the wheels 108, 148 can remain in contact with the floor surface 19 while the anchoring structure 150 secures the rack structure 102 and the vehicle 10 in place on the floor surface 19.

[0090] Figure 2 The illustrated example second anchoring structure 162 includes a second body portion 164 that can be temporarily secured to the floor surface 19 at a second floor location F2 spaced apart from the first floor location Fl in the first direction F D The second anchoring structure 162 includes a hook element 184 that can be removably attached to a component of the rack structure 102, for example, to one of the crossbar members 142 of the extension section 106. The hook element 184 of the second anchoring structure 162 can be attached to the rack structure 102 at a second rack location B2 spaced apart from the first rack location Bl in the first direction F D According to one embodiment, the second body portion 164 can be temporarily secured to the floor surface 19 using fasteners (e.g., nails) that engage the second body portion 164, for example, by being inserted through apertures formed in the second body portion 164 and removably inserted into the floor surface 19 at the second floor location F2. According to another embodiment, a block structure 166 can be placed on the second body portion 164, and the fasteners can be driven through the block structure 166 and into the floor surface 19, see Figure 5C The anchoring structure 162 and the wheels 108, 148 can remain in contact with the floor surface 19 while the anchoring structure 162 secures the rack structure 102 and the vehicle 10 in place on the floor surface 19.

[0091] Reference is made to Figure 3 and 6The extension section 106 can also include one or more support elements 153 for supporting the one or more anchoring structures 150, 162 when not in use.

[0092] Referring back to Figure 1 The system 100 can also include a connection mechanism 170 for facilitating the conversion of the vehicle 10 between the upright and horizontal positions, which will be discussed in greater detail herein. The connection mechanism 170 includes a body 172 that includes an attachment portion 174 that is removably coupleable to the upper portion 22 of the vehicle 10, such as the crossbar 24 located at the top of the mast assembly 16. The body 172 of the connection mechanism 170 can provide a stop device for preventing movement of the mast assembly 16, such as a stop device for preventing the extension of the various stages of the mast assembly 16, when the vehicle 10 is in the horizontal position and when the vehicle 10 is converted between the upright and horizontal positions via the system 100. The connection mechanism 170 is coupled to and actuated by a machine 176, such as a crane, other industrial vehicle, etc., to facilitate the conversion of the vehicle 10 between the upright and horizontal positions via the system 100, which will be discussed in greater detail herein.

[0093] Referring now to Figure 7A and 7B An exemplary method 300 for converting an industrial vehicle between an upright position and a horizontal position using a parking rack system, in accordance with an embodiment, will be described. The method 300 will be described with reference to the vehicle 10 and system 100 discussed above. Unless otherwise noted, the order of the steps provided by the following method is exemplary, i.e., the steps of the disclosed method need not be completed in the order provided, unless the steps indicate that a step is to be completed prior to or after another step.

[0094] As a starting step, components of the vehicle 10 can be secured in preparation for the conversion of the vehicle 10 from the upright position to the horizontal position. For example, this preparation can include attaching straps S around various vehicle components, such as the operator platform O P and legs, the power unit 12 and / or the battery cover, etc., see, e.g. Figure 4 The straps S around the operator platform O P and legs can prevent the extension of the stages of the mast, as the operator platform O P is raised / lowered with the upper mast stage, while the legs are fixed relative to the mast assembly 16.

[0095] Referring now to Figure 7AAt step 305, the base section 104 of the support structure 102 is positioned proximate the first portion 13 of the vehicle 10. As a non-limiting example, the operator can move the support structure 102 over the floor surface 19 by the wheels 108 and 148 of the base section 104 and the extension section 106 until the base section 104 of the support structure 102 is aligned with the first portion 13 of the vehicle 10. The base section 104 can optionally include an alignment structure 105 (see Figure 3 and 6 ), for example, a protrusion extending outwardly from the front face 104C of the base section 104 between a pair of bolts B. At step 310, the alignment structure 105 can be inserted into a corresponding opening 13a of the first portion 13 of the vehicle 10 to properly position the support structure 102 relative to the vehicle 10, see Figure 6 .

[0096] At step 315, the pair of doors 30 of the power unit 12 are opened so that the operator can access an area inside the power unit 12 in which the base section 104 will be removably attached to the vehicle 10 in the first position, see Figures 9A-9C . At step 320, the base section 104 of the support structure 102 is removably attached to the first portion 13 of the vehicle 10 in the first position. As shown in Figure 6 , the base section 104 can be secured to the first portion 13 of the vehicle 10 with the bolts B and corresponding nuts N secured to the bolts B. After the base section 104 is removably secured to the vehicle 10, the doors 30 of the power unit 12 are closed at step 325. When the vehicle 10 is positioned in the horizontal position and when the vehicle 10 is converted from the upright position to the horizontal position via the system 100, one or more straps (not shown) can be attached around the power unit 12 to prevent the doors 30 from opening. The auxiliary wheels 113 can be retracted into the base section 104 to provide a ground clearance, and the traction portion 111 can be lowered to engage and grip the floor surface 19.

[0097] Still referring to Figure 7A , at step 330, the extension section 106 of the support structure 102 is pivoted relative to the base section 104 in a first pivotal direction P D1 (see Figure 1A ) from a horizontal position shown in Figure 1A to a vertical position shown in Figure 1B . In the illustrated embodiment, the pivoting of the extension section 106 relative to the base section 104 is achieved by pivoting at least one first lever 120 of the extension section 106 relative to the base section 104 in the first pivotal direction P D1 .

[0098] Based on the distance from at least one first rod 120 of the extension segment 106 to the second part 17 of the vehicle 10, in step 335 the length L of at least one second rod 126 of the extension segment 106 can be adjusted such that the at least one second rod 126 extends into the vehicle 10 in a second position. Next, in step 340, the extension segment 106 is removably attached to the second part 17 of the vehicle 10 in the second position using the fixing structure 132.

[0099] After steps 320 and 340 are completed, the bracket structure 102 is attached to the vehicle 10 at two locations, in the first direction F. D The first and second positions are spaced apart from each other, namely the first and second parts 13 and 17 of the vehicle 10. Before step 330, when the vehicle 10 is in the vertical position, at least one first rod 120 of the extension segment 106 is in a horizontal position, at least one second rod 126 of the extension segment 106 is in a vertical position, and at least one wheel 148 of the extension segment 106 is in a floor engagement position, in which the at least one wheel 148 engages the floor surface, such as... Figure 1A As shown. After step 340, when the vehicle 10 is in a vertical position, at least one first rod 120 of the extension segment 106 is in a vertical position, at least one second rod 126 of the extension segment 106 is in a horizontal position, and at least one wheel 148 of the extension segment 106 is in a non-floor engagement position. In the non-floor engagement position, the at least one wheel 148 is not engaged with the floor surface, as shown. Figure 1B As shown.

[0100] Now for reference Figure 7B In step 345, the connecting mechanism 170 is removably connected to the upper portion 22 of the vehicle 10, such as the crossbeam 24 of the mast assembly 16. In step 350, the connecting mechanism 170 is actuated to initiate rotation of the vehicle 10 and the support structure 102 relative to the floor surface 19. Actuation of the connecting mechanism 170 can be achieved by rotating the connecting mechanism 170 using a machine 176, thereby changing the vehicle 10 with the support structure 102 connected to it from a vertical position to a horizontal position in step 355, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 1 During this transition, the support structure 102 rotates, while at least one curved ramp surface 110 of the base segment 104 supports the support structure 102 and the vehicle 10 on the floor surface 19, so that the support structure 102 and the vehicle 10 can effectively roll from a vertical position to a horizontal position. After step 355, when the vehicle 10 is in the horizontal position, at least one first rod 120 of the extension segment 106 is in the horizontal position, at least one second rod 126 of the extension segment 106 is in the vertical position, and at least one wheel 148 of the extension segment 106 is in the floor engagement position, in which the at least one wheel 148 engages the floor surface, such as...Figure 1A As shown.

[0101] In step 360, such as Figure 1 As shown, in the horizontal position of vehicle 10, support structure 102 supports vehicle 10 on floor surface 19. In step 365, connection mechanism 170 is selectively detached from upper portion 22 of vehicle 10 (connection mechanism 170 may remain attached to vehicle 10 during transport), and in step 370, system 100 and supported vehicle 10 can be transported to the desired position on floor surface 19. The order of steps 365 and 370 may depend on the type of machine 176 used to actuate connection mechanism 170. For example, if machine 176 is another industrial vehicle, this other industrial vehicle can be used to transport system 100 and supported vehicle 10 to the desired position. In this case, it is conceivable to keep connection mechanism 170 attached to upper portion 22 of vehicle 10 until system 100 and supported vehicle 10 are in the desired position. In step 375, one or more anchoring structures 150 and / or 162 are removably secured to the floor surface 19 to temporarily hold the system 100 and the vehicle 10 supported on the system in place on the floor surface 19. The fork 23 can be removed from the vehicle 10 at any suitable time and is supported on the support structure 102 via the fork retainer 146 and fork pin 147.

[0102] Now for reference Figure 8A and 8B This document describes an exemplary method 400 for converting an industrial vehicle between a horizontal and a vertical position using a parking support system according to an embodiment. Method 400 will be described with reference to the vehicle 10 and system 100 discussed above. Unless otherwise stated, the order of steps provided in the following method is exemplary, and the steps of the disclosed method need not be performed in the provided order unless the step indicates that it should be performed before or after another step.

[0103] refer to Figure 8A In step 405, at least one anchoring structure 150 and / or 162 is separated from at least one of the floor surface 19 and the base segment 104 or the extension segment 106 as needed, such that the support structure 102 and the vehicle 10 supported on the support structure are no longer fixed to the floor surface 19. In step 410, the system 100 and the supported vehicle 10 can be transported to the desired location on the floor surface 19.

[0104] At step 415, the connection mechanism 170 is removably attached to the upper portion 22 of the vehicle 10, e.g., to the crossbar 24 of the mast assembly 16, if not previously performed, e.g., prior to transport of the vehicle 10. The order of steps 410 and 415 can depend on the type of machine 176 used to actuate the connection mechanism 170 at step 420. For example, if the machine 176 is another industrial vehicle, the system 100 and the supported vehicle 10 can be transported to the desired location using the other industrial vehicle, in which case it can be contemplated to attach the connection mechanism 170 to the upper portion 22 of the vehicle 10 prior to transporting the system 100 and the supported vehicle 10 to the desired location.

[0105] At step 420, the connection mechanism 170 is actuated to rotate the vehicle 10 and the support structure 102 relative to the floor surface 19. Actuation of the connection mechanism 170 can be achieved by rotating the connection mechanism 170 using the machine 176, thereby converting the vehicle 10 with the coupled support structure 102 from a horizontal position to a vertical position at step 425, see Figure 1A During this conversion, the support structure 102 is rotated while the at least one curved ramp surface 110 of the base section 104 supports the support structure 102 and the vehicle 10 on the floor surface 19 so as to effectively roll the support structure 102 and the vehicle 10 from the horizontal position to the vertical position.

[0106] Once the vehicle 10 is in the vertical position, at step 430, the connection mechanism 170 is detached from the upper portion 22 of the vehicle 10. At step 435, the extension section 106 is detached from the second portion 17 of the vehicle 10 at the section location.

[0107] At step 440, the extension section 106 is pivoted relative to the base section 104 in a second pivot direction P D2 (see Figure 1B ) from the vertical position shown in Figure 1B to the horizontal position shown in Figure 1A In the illustrated embodiment, the pivoting of the extension section 106 relative to the base section 104 is achieved by pivoting the at least one first bar 120 of the extension section 106 relative to the base section 104 in the second pivot direction P D2 Prior to step 440, when the vehicle 10 is in the vertical position, the at least one first bar 120 of the extension section 106 is in a vertical position, the at least one second bar 126 of the extension section 106 is in a horizontal position, and the at least one wheel 148 of the extension section 106 is in a non-floor-engaging position in which the at least one wheel 148 is not engaged with the floor surface, as shown in Figure 1BAs shown. After step 440, at least one first rod 120 of the extension segment 106 is in a horizontal position, at least one second rod 126 of the extension segment 106 is in a vertical position, and at least one wheel 148 of the extension segment 106 is in a floor engagement position, in which the at least one wheel 112 engages the floor surface, as shown. Figure 1A As shown.

[0108] Now for reference Figure 8B The traction section 111 can be lifted from the floor surface 19, and the auxiliary wheel 113 can be lowered or extended into the extended position. In step 445, the door 30 of the power unit 12 is opened to allow the operator access to the area inside the power unit 12, enabling the base section 104 to be separated from the vehicle 10 in a first position. In step 450, the base section 104 is separated from the first part 13 of the vehicle 10 in the first position. In the illustrated embodiment, this can be achieved by removing the nut N from the bolt B, see... Figure 6 Then, the support structure 102 is moved away from the vehicle 10. After the base section 104 has separated from the first part 13 of the vehicle 10, the door 30 of the power unit 12 can be closed in step 455. Optionally, the strap S and / or other items can be stored in the storage compartment 151. The fork 23 can be removed from the fork retainer 146 and fork pin 147 at any suitable time and secured to the vehicle 10.

[0109] Now for reference Figure 11 The diagram illustrates a plurality of support structures 102 according to an embodiment. Support structures 102 may include any or all of the structures discussed herein. According to this embodiment, support structures 102 also include a nesting structure 190 that allows a plurality of support structures 102 to be stacked on top of each other. Figure 11 The exemplary nested structure 190 shown includes nested channels 192 extending upward from the upper surface of the base segment 104. Each nested channel 192 may receive one or more wheels of another support structure 102 nested on top of the support structure 102, such as the wheel 108 of the base segment 104. Figure 11 The exemplary nested structure 190 shown also includes a nesting frame 196 attached to the second rod 126 of the extension segment 106. The nesting frame 196 can support and receive a portion of the extension segment 106 of another support structure 102 and can prevent any stacked support structures 102 from moving in any direction. The nested structure 190 provides a space-saving advantage for the stacking configuration of multiple support structures 102 when moving / transporting them.

[0110] To prepare the rack structures 102 for stacking / nesting, the base section 104 of each rack structure 102 can be rotated so that it is in the Figure 10A position shown, with the wheels 108 in the ground-engaging position and the nesting channel 192 extending upwardly from the upper surface of the base section 104. Locking pins 129 can be used to lock the position of the base section 104 and the extension section 106 relative to each other, see for example Figure 10A . The rack structures 102 can then be stacked on top of each other, as shown in Figure 11 . Any unused anchor structures 150, 162 can be supported on one or more support elements 153 on the extension section 106.

[0111] Reference is now made to Figures 12-20 , Figure 12 illustrating an industrial vehicle 1010 (hereinafter "vehicle 1010") supported on a parking rack system 1100 (hereinafter "system 1100") constructed in accordance with an embodiment. Figure 12 The vehicle 1010 shown in the figures is a forklift truck, but the embodiments disclosed herein can be used with any suitable type of industrial vehicle. The vehicle 1010 includes a power unit 1012 and a load handling assembly 1014 having a mast assembly 1016. The power unit 1012, the load handling assembly 1014 and the mast assembly 1016 each include conventional components, which will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, and are not described in detail herein. When the vehicle 1010 is in an upright position (also referred to herein as a vertical position), a lower portion 1015 of the power unit 1012 adjacent to a floor surface 1019 defines a first portion 1013 of the vehicle 1010, see Figure 12A . A second portion 1017 of the vehicle 1010 is spaced apart from the first portion 1013 in a first direction F D of the vehicle 1010 and is defined by a portion 1018 of the mast assembly 1016, ranging from near the center of mass of the vehicle 1010 to the top of the mast assembly 1016, where the first direction F D is parallel to a vertical axis V A of the vehicle 1010 when positioned in the upright position, see Figure 12A . In the illustrated embodiment, the second portion 1017 is positioned generally about the center of mass of the vehicle 1010.

[0112] The vehicle 1010 is shown in Figure 12 and Figure 13The vehicle 1010 is shown as being fully supported on the parking rack system 1100 in a horizontal position (also referred to herein as a parked position). One of the vertical or horizontal positions of the vehicle 1010 can also be referred to herein as a first position, and the other of the vertical or horizontal positions of the vehicle 1010 is referred to herein as a second position. The parking rack system 1100 is used to transition the vehicle 1010 from the vertical position to the horizontal position, and vice versa, and to support the vehicle 1010 on the floor surface 1019 when the vehicle 1010 is in the horizontal position, as will be described in detail herein. The system 1100 includes a rack structure 1102 that includes a base section 1104 and an extension section 1106 that are pivotably coupled together to form a single structure.

[0113] With reference to Figure 14 The extension section 1106 of the rack structure 1102 includes at least one wheel-less support element 1108, preferably two pairs 1108A and 1108B of wheel-less support elements 1108, with the wheel-less support elements 1108 in each pair 1108A, 1108B being spaced apart from one another in the lateral direction L D1 of the rack structure 1102, with the first pair 1108A being spaced apart from the second pair 1108B in the longitudinal direction L D2 of the rack structure 1102. The wheel-less support elements 1108 are used to support the system 1100 when the vehicle 1010 is supported on the system 1100 in the horizontal position, as will be discussed in greater detail herein. According to an embodiment, the wheel-less support elements 1108 can be spaced apart from one another in the lateral and longitudinal directions L D1 , L D2 of the rack structure 1102, such that the wheel-less support elements 1108 are respectively positioned toward opposite lateral sides 1106A, 1106B of the extension section 1106 in order to provide maximum support and stability for the vehicle 1010 when the vehicle is supported on the system 1100 in the horizontal position. It is contemplated that the base section 104 can include any suitable number of wheel-less support elements 1108. According to one exemplary embodiment, the wheel-less support elements 1108 can include elongated track members having a generally planar surface that extends along the floor surface 1019 when the system 1100 supports the vehicle 1010 in the horizontal position.

[0114] The base section 1104 includes at least one curved ramp surface 1110 that faces away from the vehicle 1010 when the base section 1104 is secured to the vehicle 1010, see also Figure 12 and Figure 13When the vehicle 1010 is being transitioned between the vertical and horizontal positions via the system 1100, the at least one curved ramp surface 1110 supports the system 1100 and the vehicle 1010 on the floor surface 1019. The at least one curved ramp surface 1110 can include a traction portion 1111 (see Figure 14 ) to prevent undesired sliding or skidding motion of the support structure 1102 and the supported vehicle 1010 when the system 1100 is used to transition the vehicle 1010 between the vertical and horizontal positions. The traction portion 1111 can be integrally formed with the curved ramp surface 1110, such as a series of corrugations or protrusions formed on the curved ramp surface 1110, or the traction portion can be formed separately from the curved ramp surface 1110 and applied to the curved ramp surface, such as a friction pad or rubber pad.

[0115] Referring to Figure 15 , the base section 1104 also includes a fastening structure, such as a bracket and pin structure 1115 according to the present embodiment and one or more bolts B, for removably securing the base section 1104 to the vehicle 1010 in a first position, discussed in detail below. The first position can correspond to the first portion 1013 of the vehicle 1010, such that the base section 1104 can be removably secured to the lower portion 1015 of the power unit 1012 adjacent to the floor surface 1019 when the vehicle 1010 is in the upright position. Further details regarding removably attaching the base section 1104 to the vehicle 1010 are discussed below.

[0116] Referring to Figure 16C and 16DThe base section 1104 can include at least one lift / lower assembly 1150 for lifting and lowering a positioning portion 1152 of the base section 1104, e.g., for moving the positioning portion 1152 between a raised position thereof away from the floor surface 1019 and a lowered position thereof proximate to the floor surface 1019. According to the illustrated example embodiment, the base section 1104 includes two lift / lower assemblies 1150 located proximate to the curved ramp surface 1110, respectively. Each lift / lower assembly 1150 can include one or more bolts 1151, with each lift / lower assembly 1150 including three first bolts 1151a and one second bolt 1151b in the illustrated example embodiment. The positioning portion 1152 of the base section 1104 can be moved between the raised and lowered positions when the first and second bolts 1151a, 1151b are manually loosened by an operator, for example. Once each positioning portion 1152 is in its desired position, the first and second bolts 1151a and 1151b are manually tightened by the operator, for example, to secure the positioning portion 1152 in its desired position, i.e., the positioning portion 1152 can only be raised or lowered when the first and second bolts 1151a and 1151b are loosened. In example embodiments, each positioning portion 1152 can be positioned in the raised position prior to the base section 1104 being positioned proximate to the first portion 1013 of the vehicle 1010 so that the cradle structure 1102 can be moved more freely without the positioning portion 1152 contacting the floor surface 1019, with each positioning portion 1152 being moved to the lowered position once the base section 1104 is positioned proximate to the vehicle 1010 and secured thereto (as described below) so that the curved ramp surface 1110 is positioned proximate to the floor surface 1019.

[0117] Referring back to Figure 14 The extension section 1106 of the cradle structure 1102 includes at least one first rod 1120, preferably a pair of first rods 1120, each first rod 1120 having a first end 1122 and a second end 1124. Referring to Figure 16A and 16B The first end 1122 of the at least one first rod 1120 is pivotably connected to the base section 1104 by a pivot connection provided by a pivot pin 1125. A U-shaped bracket 1127 can be provided to limit movement between the at least one first rod 1120 and the base section 1104, and a removable locking pin 1129 can be provided to limit pivotal movement between the at least one first rod 1120 and the base section 1104 when such pivotal movement is not desired.

[0118] The extension section 1106 also includes at least one second rod 1126, preferably a pair of second rods 1126, each second rod 1126 having a first end 1128 and a second end 1130, seeFigure 14 A first end 1128 of the at least one second bar 1126 is rigidly attached to a second end 1124 of the at least one first bar 1120 at an angle transverse to the at least one first bar 1120, where the angle can be 90 degrees. A second end 1130 of the at least one second bar 1126 is engaged with the vehicle 1010 at a second position, where the second position is spaced apart from the first position in the first direction F D The second position can correspond to a second portion 1017 of the vehicle 1010, such that the extension section 1106 is engaged with the middle portion 1016 of the mast assembly 1016, see Figure 12 .

[0119] As shown in Figure 14 , the length L of the at least one second bar 1126 can be adjustable, such that the distance between its first and second ends 1128, 1130 can be adjusted, so that the system 1100 can accommodate various different types and / or sizes of industrial vehicles. The length adjustment of the at least one second bar 1126 can be achieved, for example, by forming the at least one second bar 1126 with two bar members 1126A, 1126B that are movably securable relative to each other. According to one exemplary embodiment, the first bar member 1126A is slidable within a hollow interior portion of the second bar member 1126B. The bar members 1126A, 1126B can be temporarily locked together and prevented from moving relative to each other, for example, with a spring-loaded pin on the first bar member 1126A or with a bolt that can be inserted through a selected one of a series of openings formed on the second bar member 1126B to adjust the overall length L of the at least one second bar 1126.

[0120] The extension section 1106 includes a securing structure 1132 for temporarily securing the extension section 1106 to the vehicle 1010 at the second position. The securing structure 1132 can include any suitable structure for removably securing the extension section 1106 to the vehicle 1010 at the second position, such as a clamp or bolt structure 1144 (see Figure 14 ) at the second end 1130 of one or both second bars 1126, or a strap (not shown) secured around the mast assembly 1016 at the second position and one component of the extension section 1106, such as around the one or more cross bar members 1142 of the extension section 1106 in the lateral direction L D The one or more cross bar members 1142 of the extension can also provide stability to the extension section 1106.

[0121] As shown in Figure 14As shown, the extension section 1106 can also include at least one fork holder 1146 for supporting the forks 1023 removed from the vehicle 1010 for transport. In the illustrated embodiment, two sets of fork holders 1146 are provided, connected to the first bar 1120 of the extension section 1106. The extension section 1106 can also include at least one fork pin 1147 that receives the fork strut structure 1023a of the forks 1023. The fork pin 1147 and the fork holders 1146 cooperate with each other to secure and support the forks 1023 during transport and when supporting the vehicle 1010 on the system 1100. It is contemplated that the fork holders 1146 and the fork pin 1147 can be positioned elsewhere on the rack structure 1102, if desired. The extension section 1106 can also include one or more storage compartments, such as mesh bags, for holding tools and / or other items (not shown).

[0122] Referring to Figure 12 and 17 The system 1100 can also include a connection mechanism 1170 for facilitating the conversion of the vehicle 1010 between the upright position and the horizontal position, which will be discussed in greater detail herein. The connection mechanism 1170 includes a body 1172 and an attachment portion 1174 that is removably coupleable to an upper portion 1022 of the vehicle 1010, such as the upper crossbar 1024A located at the top of the mast assembly 1016. The attachment portion 1174 can be a U-shaped bracket that is received on top of the upper crossbar 1024A and secured thereto via fastening structures such as one or more bolts B. The body 1172 can include a coupling portion 1172a that includes an opening or eyelet 1172b for receiving a mast strap MS. One end of the mast strap MS can be attached to the coupling portion 1172a and the other end can be attached to a portion of the mast assembly 1016, such as the second cross member 1024B. The body 1172 of the connection mechanism 1170 can provide a stop device for preventing movement of the mast assembly 1016, such as a stop device for preventing the extension of the various stages of the mast assembly 1016, when the vehicle 1010 is supported on the system 1100 in the horizontal position and when the vehicle 1010 is converted between the upright position and the horizontal position via the system 1100. The connection mechanism 1170 is coupled to and actuated by a machine 1176, such as a crane, other industrial vehicle, etc., to facilitate the conversion of the vehicle 1010 between the upright position and the horizontal position via the system 1100, which will be discussed in greater detail herein.

[0123] Referring now to Figure 18A and 18BAn exemplary method 1300 for transitioning an industrial vehicle between a vertical position and a horizontal position using a parking rack system, in accordance with an embodiment, will be described. The method 1300 will be described with reference to the vehicle 1010 and system 1100 discussed above. Unless otherwise noted, the order of steps provided by the following method is exemplary, i.e., the steps of the disclosed method need not be completed in the order given, unless that order is clearly required by a step.

[0124] As a starting step, components of the vehicle 1010 can be secured in preparation for the vehicle 1010 to be transitioned from an upright position to a horizontal position. For example, this preparation can include attaching straps S around various vehicle components, such as the operator platform O P and legs, the power unit 1012 and / or the battery cover, etc., see, e.g., Figure 13 The straps S around the operator platform O P and legs can prevent the extension of the levels of the mast, as the exemplary vehicle 1010 in accordance with the present embodiment, the operator platform O P is raised / lowered with the upper mast level, while the legs are fixed relative to the mast assembly 1016.

[0125] Referring to Figure 18A , at step 1305, if equipped on the rack structure 1102, the raise / lower assemblies 1150 can be moved to the raised position (if they are not already in the raised position), and at step 1308, the base section 1104 of the rack structure 1102 is positioned to a location adjacent to the first portion 1013 of the vehicle 1010. As a non-limiting example, an operator of a stand-alone materials handling vehicle can move the rack structure 1102 by inserting forks of the stand-alone materials handling vehicle into the fork pockets FP (see Figure 14 ) of the rack structure 1102, and can cause the rack structure 1102 to move with the stand-alone materials handling vehicle until the base section 1104 of the rack structure 1102 is aligned with the first portion 1013 of the vehicle 1010. The base section 1104 can optionally include an alignment structure 1105 (see Figure 15A ), e.g., a protrusion extending outwardly from a front face 1104C of the base section 1104 and aligning with a structure or indicator (e.g., an opening 1013a) on the first portion 1013 of the vehicle 1010, see Figure 15B At step 1310, the alignment structure 1105 can be inserted into the opening 1013a of the first portion 1013 of the vehicle 1010 to properly position the rack structure 1102 relative to the vehicle 1010, as shown in Figure 15 .

[0126] In step 1315, a pair of doors 1030 of the vehicle power unit 1012 are opened to allow an operator access to an area inside the power unit 1012, in which the base section 1104 is removably attached to the vehicle 1010 in a first position. Figure 15 In step 1320, the base segment 1104 of the support structure 1102 is removably attached to the first portion 1013 of the vehicle 1010 in a first position. For example... Figure 15 As shown, the base section 1104 can be fastened to the first part 1013 of the vehicle 1010 using a bracket and pin structure 1115 and bolt B. The bracket 1115a of the bracket and pin structure 1115 is positioned inside the door at the first part 1013 of the vehicle, and bolt B can be tightened from the outside, thus making it easier to attach the base section 1104 of the bracket structure to the power unit 1012. After the base section 1104 is removably secured to the vehicle 1010, the door 1030 of the power unit 1012 is closed in step 1325, and if mounted on the bracket structure 1102, the raise / lower assembly 1150 can be moved to the lowered position in step 1328. In step 1329, the operator platform O can be... P Attach one or more additional bands S to prevent operator platform O P One or more straps (not shown) can be attached around the power unit 1012 to prevent the door 1030 from opening, relative to the mast assembly 1016 and when the vehicle 1010 is positioned in a horizontal position and when the vehicle 1010 is switched from an upright position to a horizontal position via the system 1100.

[0127] In step 1330, the extension segment 1106 of the support structure 1102 is positioned relative to the base segment 1104 along the first pivot direction P. D1 (See Figure 12A )from Figure 12A The horizontal position shown pivots to Figure 12B The vertical position is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, by making at least one first rod 1120 of the extension segment 1106 in the first pivot direction P D1 The upper part pivots relative to the base section 1104 to realize the pivoting of the extension section 1106 relative to the base section 1104.

[0128] Based on the distance from at least one first rod 1120 of the extension segment 1106 to the second portion 1017 of the vehicle 1010, in step 1335 the length L of at least one second rod 1126 of the extension segment 1106 can be adjusted such that the at least one second rod 1126 extends into the vehicle 1010 at a second position. Next, in step 1340, in the second position, the extension segment 1106 is removably attached to the second portion 1017 of the vehicle 1010 using a fixing structure 1132, see...Figure 18B The second position of the vehicle 1010 can correspond to a position at which the vehicle 1010, when supported by the rack structure 1102, does not tip over, for example, due to jolts or other forces that occur when the vehicle 1010 is transported in a horizontal position.

[0129] After steps 1320 and 1340 have been completed, the rack structure 1102 is now attached to the vehicle 1010 in two positions that are spaced apart from each other in the first direction F D Before step 1330, when the vehicle 1010 is in the vertical position, at least one first pole 1120 of the extension section 1106 is in a horizontal position, at least one second pole 1126 of the extension section 1106 is in a vertical position, and at least one wheel-less support element 1108 of the extension section 1106 is in a floor-engaging position in which the at least one wheel-less support element 1108 is engaged with the floor surface, as shown in FIG. 13B. Figure 12A After step 1340, when the vehicle 1010 is in the vertical position, at least one first pole 1120 of the extension section 1106 is in a vertical position, at least one second pole 1126 of the extension section 1106 is in a horizontal position, and at least one wheel-less support element 1108 of the extension section 1106 is in a non-floor-engaging position in which the at least one wheel-less support element 1108 is not engaged with the floor surface, as shown in FIG. 13C. Figure 12B At step 1342, the forks 1023 can be removed from the vehicle 1010 and placed aside as needed.

[0130] At step 1345, the connection mechanism 1170 is removably coupled to the upper portion 1022 of the vehicle 1010, for example, to the upper crossbeam 1024A of the mast assembly 1016. In this step, the mast strap MS can also be fed through the opening 1172b and can also be attached to the second cross member 1024B. At step 1350, the connection mechanism 1170 is actuated to initiate rotation of the vehicle 1010 and the rack structure 1102 relative to the floor surface 1019. Actuating the connection mechanism 1170 can be achieved by rotating the connection mechanism 1170 with the machine 1176, thereby converting the vehicle 1010 with the coupled rack structure 1102 from the vertical position to the horizontal position at step 1355, see Figure 12During this conversion process, the support structure 1102 is rotated while at least one curved ramp surface 1110 of the base section 1104 supports the support structure 1102 and the vehicle 1010 on the floor surface 1019 so as to effectively roll the support structure 1102 and the vehicle 1010 from the vertical position to the horizontal position. After step 1355, when the vehicle 1010 is in the horizontal position, the at least one first bar 1120 of the extension section 1106 is in the horizontal position, the at least one second bar 1126 of the extension section 1106 is in the vertical position, and the at least one wheel-less support element 1108 of the extension section 1106 is in the floor-engaging position in which it is engaged with the floor surface, as shown in Figure 12

[0131] At step 1360, as shown in Figure 12 the support structure 1102 supports the vehicle 1010 on the floor surface 1019 in the horizontal position of the vehicle 1010. At optional step 1365, the connection mechanism 1170 is detached from the upper portion 1022 of the vehicle 1010 (if desired, the connection mechanism 1170 can remain attached to the vehicle 1010 during transport of the vehicle 1010). At step 1368, the forks 1023 can be supported on the support structure 1102 via the fork holder 1146. At step 1370, the system 1100 and the supported vehicle 1010 can be transported to a desired location on the floor surface 1019. For example, transport of the system 1100 and the vehicle 1010 supported thereon can be accomplished by inserting the forks of another vehicle into the fork pockets FP, lifting the support structure 1102 and the vehicle 1010 supported thereon, and moving to the desired location. At optional step 1375, one or more anchors or blocks (not shown in this embodiment) are used to further prevent undesired movement of the system 1100 and the supported vehicle 1010 on the floor surface 1019.

[0132] Referring now to Figure 19A and 19B an exemplary method 1400 of converting an industrial vehicle between a horizontal position and a vertical position using a parking support system according to an embodiment will be described. The method 1400 will be described with reference to the vehicle 1010 and the system 1100 discussed above. Unless otherwise noted, the order of the steps provided by the following method is exemplary, i.e., the steps of the disclosed method need not be completed in the order provided, unless that step indicates the step is to be completed prior to or after another step.

[0133] Referring now to Figure 19A ​At optional step 1405 (if used), at least one anchor or block is removed to allow the system 1000 to move with the supported vehicle 1010. At step 1410, the system 1100 and the supported vehicle 1010 can be transported on the floor surface 1019 to a desired location, for example, with a separate material handling vehicle.

[0134] At step 1415, the connection mechanism 1170 is removably attached to the upper portion 1022 of the vehicle 1010, for example, to the upper cross member 1024A of the mast assembly 1016, if not previously performed, for example, prior to transporting the vehicle 1010. At this step, the mast strap MS can also be fed through the opening 1172b and can also be attached to the second cross member 1024B. At step 1418, the forks 1023 can be removed from the rack structure 1102 and can be placed aside as needed.

[0135] At step 1420, the connection mechanism 1170 is actuated to initiate rotation of the vehicle 1010 and the rack structure 1102 relative to the floor surface 1019. Actuation of the connection mechanism 1170 can be accomplished by rotating the connection mechanism 1170 with the machine 1176, thereby converting the vehicle 1010 with the coupled rack structure 1102 from a horizontal position to a vertical position at step 1425, see Figure 12B During this conversion, the rack structure 1102 is rotated while at least one curved ramp surface 1110 of the base section 1104 supports the rack structure 1102 and the vehicle 1010 on the floor surface 1019 so as to effectively roll the rack structure 1102 and the vehicle 1010 from the horizontal position to the vertical position.

[0136] Once the vehicle 1010 is in the vertical position, at step 1430, the connection mechanism 1170 is decoupled from the upper portion 1022 of the vehicle 1010. At step 1432, the forks 1023 can be returned to the vehicle 1010. At step 1435, the extension section 1106 is decoupled from the second portion 1017 of the vehicle 1010 at the second location.

[0137] At step 1440, the extension section 1106 is pivoted relative to the base section 1104 along a second pivot direction P D2 (see Figure 12B ) from the vertical position shown in Figure 12B to the horizontal position shown in Figure 12A In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one first rod 1120 of the extension section 1106 is pivoted in the second pivot direction P D2The upper portion is pivoted relative to the base portion 1104 to effect pivoting of the extension portion 1106 relative to the base portion 1104. Prior to step 1440, when the vehicle 1010 is in the upright position, at least one first bar 1120 of the extension portion 1106 is in an upright position, at least one second bar 1126 of the extension portion 1106 is in a horizontal position, at least one wheel-less support element 1108 of the extension portion 1106 is in a non-floor-engaging position in which the at least one wheel-less support element 1108 is not engaged with a floor surface, as shown in Figure 12B After step 1440, at least one first bar 1120 of the extension portion 1106 is in a horizontal position, at least one second bar 1126 of the extension portion 1106 is in an upright position, at least one wheel-less support element 1108 of the extension portion 1106 is in a floor-engaging position in which the at least one wheel-less support element 1108 is engaged with a floor surface, as shown in Figure 12A

[0138] Referring now to Figure 19B , at step 1442, if equipment is on the rack structure 1102, the raise / lower assembly 1150 can be moved to a raised position. At step 1443, if used, the strap that holds the door 1030 of the power unit 1012 closed and the operator platform O P is removed. At step 1445, the door 1030 is opened so that the operator can access the area inside the power unit 1012 so that the base portion 1104 can be detached from the vehicle 1010 in the first position. At step 1450, the base portion 1104 is detached from the first portion 1013 of the vehicle 1010 in the first position. In the illustrated embodiment, this can be accomplished by removing the bolts B and bracket and pin structure 1115 (see Figure 15 ), and then moving the rack structure 1102 away from the vehicle 1010. After the base portion 1104 has been detached from the first portion 1013 of the vehicle 1010, the door 1030 of the power unit 1012 can be closed at step 1455. Optionally, the strap S and / or other items can be stored in the storage compartment of the rack structure 1102. The forks 1023 can be removed from the fork holders 1146 at any suitable time using conventional methods, and secured to the vehicle 1010.

[0139] Referring now to Figure 20 , a plurality of rack structures 1102 according to an embodiment is shown. The rack structures 1102 can include any or all of the structures of the rack structures 1102 discussed herein. According to the present embodiment, the rack structures 1102 further include a nesting structure 1190 that allows the plurality of rack structures 1102 to be stacked on top of one another. Figure 20 ​The illustrated exemplary nesting structure 1190 includes base section nesting supports 1192 extending upwardly from the upper surface of the base section 1104 and extension section nesting supports 1193 extending upwardly from the upper surface of the at least one first bar 1120. Each base section nesting support 1192 can receive the curved ramp surface 1110 of another rack structure 1102 nested on top of the rack structure 1102, and each extension section nesting support 1193 can receive the wheel-less support element 1108 of another rack structure 1102 nested on top of the rack structure 1102. The stacked configuration for the plurality of rack structures 1102 provided by the nesting structure 1190 provides a space-saving advantage when moving / transporting the plurality of rack structures 1102.

[0140] To prepare the rack structure 1102 for stacking / nesting, the base section 1104 of each rack structure 1102 can be rotated so that it is in the Figure 16B position illustrated, with the base section nesting supports 1192 extending upwardly from the upper surface of the base section 1104. Locking pins 1129 can be used to lock the position of the base section 1104 and the extension section 1106 relative to each other, see Figure 16B for example. The rack structures 1102 can then be stacked on top of each other, as illustrated in Figure 20

[0141] Representative embodiments of the present disclosure described above can be described as follows:

[0142] A. A parking rack system for supporting an industrial vehicle in a horizontal position on a floor surface, the parking rack system comprising:

[0143] a base section removably attached to a first portion of the vehicle in a first position; and

[0144] an extension section removably attached to a second portion of the vehicle in a second position, the second position spaced apart from the first position in a first direction, the first direction parallel to a vertical axis when the vehicle is positioned in an upright position;

[0145] wherein the extension section is pivotably coupled to the base section.

[0146] B. The parking rack system of clause A, wherein the base section includes a plurality of wheels for facilitating movement of the vehicle on the floor surface when the vehicle is supported in the horizontal position on the parking rack system.

[0147] ​C. The parking rack system of clause A or B, wherein the extension section comprises a plurality of wheels for facilitating movement of the vehicle across a floor surface when the vehicle is supported in the horizontal position on the parking rack system.

[0148] D. The parking rack system of any one of clauses A-C, further comprising at least one anchoring structure for temporarily securing the parking rack system and the vehicle in place on a floor surface, wherein the at least one anchoring structure is temporarily coupled to the floor surface and to at least one of the base section or the extension section.

[0149] E. The parking rack system of clause D, wherein the anchoring structure comprises:

[0150] a body portion that is temporarily couplable to a floor surface; and

[0151] at least one insertion element that is insertable into a corresponding opening of the at least one of the base section or the extension section.

[0152] F. The parking rack system of any one of clauses A-E, wherein the base section comprises at least one curved ramp surface that faces away from the vehicle when the base section is secured to the vehicle, the at least one curved ramp surface supporting the parking rack system and the vehicle on a floor surface when the vehicle is transitioning from the upright position to the horizontal position.

[0153] G. The parking rack system of any one of clauses A-F, wherein the extension section comprises at least one first bar pivotably connected with the base section.

[0154] H. The parking rack system of clause G, wherein the extension section further comprises at least one second bar rigidly attached with the at least one first bar and positioned at an angle transverse to the at least one first bar, the at least one second bar engaging a second portion of the vehicle in a second position.

[0155] I. The parking rack system of clause H, wherein a length of the at least one second bar is adjustable.

[0156] J. The parking rack system of clause H or I, wherein when the base section is attached to a first portion of the vehicle and the extension section is attached to a second portion of the vehicle:

[0157] with the vehicle in the horizontal position, the at least one first bar is in a horizontal position, the at least one second bar is in a vertical position; and

[0158] with the vehicle in the upright position, the at least one first bar is in a vertical position and the at least one second bar is in a horizontal position.

[0159] K. The parking rack system of any of clauses A-J, further comprising a connection mechanism removably coupled to an upper portion of the vehicle, wherein the connection mechanism is actuated to facilitate the conversion of the vehicle between the upright position and the horizontal position.

[0160] L. A parking rack system for converting an industrial vehicle from a first position to a second position, the parking rack system comprising:

[0161] a rack structure comprising:

[0162] a base section removably attachable to a first portion of the vehicle in the first position; and

[0163] an extension section coupled to the base section and comprising at least one securing structure removably attachable to a second portion of the vehicle in the second position, the second position spaced apart from the first position in a first direction, the first direction parallel to a vertical axis when the vehicle is positioned in an upright position, wherein a length of the extension section is adjustable;

[0164] wherein the vehicle is converted from the first position to the second position by rotating the rack structure and the vehicle supported on the rack structure relative to a floor surface.

[0165] M. The parking rack system of clause L, wherein the base section comprises a plurality of wheels for facilitating movement of the vehicle on a floor surface when the vehicle is supported on the parking rack system in the second position.

[0166] N. The parking rack system of clause L or M, wherein the extension section comprises a plurality of wheels for facilitating movement of the vehicle on a floor surface when the vehicle is supported on the parking rack system in the second position.

[0167] O. The parking rack system of any of clauses L-N, further comprising at least one anchoring structure for temporarily securing the parking rack system and the vehicle in place on a floor surface, wherein the at least one anchoring structure is temporarily coupled to the floor surface and to at least one of the base section or the extension section.

[0168] P. The parking rack system of clause O, wherein the at least one anchoring structure comprises:

[0169] a body portion that is temporarily couplable to a floor surface; and

[0170] at least one insertion element that is insertable into a corresponding opening of the at least one of the base section or the extension section.

[0171] Q. The parking bracket system of any of clauses L-P, wherein the base section includes at least one curved ramp surface that faces away from the vehicle when the base section is secured to the vehicle, the at least one curved ramp surface supporting the parking bracket system and the vehicle on the floor surface when the vehicle is transitioning from the first position to the second position.

[0172] R. The parking bracket system of any of clauses L-Q, wherein the extension section includes at least one first bar connected with the base section.

[0173] S. The parking bracket system of clause R, wherein the extension section further includes at least one second bar rigidly attached with the at least one first bar and positioned at an angle transverse to the at least one first bar, the at least one second bar engaging a second portion of the vehicle in the second position.

[0174] T. The parking bracket system of any of clauses L-S, further comprising a connection mechanism removably coupled to an upper portion of the vehicle, wherein the connection mechanism is actuated to facilitate the transition of the vehicle between the first position and the second position.

[0175] U. A method of transitioning an industrial vehicle between an upright position and a horizontal position with a parking bracket system, the method comprising:

[0176] removably attaching a base section of the parking bracket system to a first portion of the vehicle in a first position;

[0177] pivoting an extension section of the parking bracket system relative to the base section;

[0178] removably attaching the extension section of the parking bracket system to a second portion of the vehicle in a second position, wherein:

[0179] the extension section is pivotably coupled to the base section; and

[0180] the second position is spaced apart from the first position in a first direction, the first direction being parallel to a vertical axis when the vehicle is positioned in the upright position; and

[0181] converting the vehicle from the upright position to the horizontal position by rotating the vehicle and the parking cradle system relative to the floor surface.

[0182] V. The method of clause U, wherein the base section includes at least one curved ramp surface that supports the parking cradle system and vehicle on the floor surface as the vehicle is converted from the upright position to the horizontal position.

[0183] W. The method of clause U or V, further comprising: after converting the vehicle from the upright position to the horizontal position, removably coupling an anchoring structure to the floor surface and to at least one of the base section or the extension section to secure the parking cradle system and vehicle supported thereon in place on the floor surface.

[0184] X. The method of any of clauses U-W, wherein the extension section includes at least one bar that engages a second portion of the vehicle in the second position, wherein a length of the at least one bar is adjustable.

[0185] Y. The method of any of clauses U-X, wherein converting the vehicle from the upright position to the horizontal position includes:

[0186] removably coupling a connection mechanism to an upper portion of the vehicle; and

[0187] actuating the connection mechanism to rotate the vehicle and the parking cradle relative to the floor surface to convert the vehicle from the upright position to the horizontal position.

[0188] Z. The method of any of clauses U-Y, wherein:

[0189] the extension section includes:

[0190] at least one first bar that is pivotably coupled to the base section; and

[0191] at least one second bar that is rigidly attached to the at least one first bar and positioned at an angle transverse to the at least one first bar, the at least one second bar engaging a second portion of the vehicle in the second position; and

[0192] pivoting the extension section relative to the base section includes pivoting the at least one first bar relative to the base section from a horizontal position of the at least one first bar to a vertical position of the at least one first bar.

[0193] AA. The method of any of clauses U-Z, wherein, once the vehicle is transitioned to the horizontal position, the vehicle is fully supported on the parking rack system.

[0194] BB. The method of any of clauses U-AA, wherein the extension segment includes at least one wheel, and wherein pivoting the extension segment causes the at least one wheel to transition from a floor-engaging position in which the at least one wheel of the extension segment is engaged with a floor surface to a non-floor-engaging position in which the at least one wheel of the extension segment is not engaged with a floor surface.

[0195] CC. A method comprising:

[0196] providing a parking rack system on which an industrial vehicle is supported in a horizontal position, the parking rack system comprising: a base segment removably attached to a first portion of the vehicle in a first position; and an extension segment pivotably coupled to the base segment and removably attached to a second portion of the vehicle in a second position, the second position spaced apart from the first position in a first direction, the first direction parallel to a vertical axis when the vehicle is positioned in an upright position;

[0197] transitioning the vehicle from the horizontal position to the upright position by rotating the parking rack and the vehicle supported on the parking rack relative to a floor surface;

[0198] disengaging the extension segment of the parking rack system from the second portion of the vehicle;

[0199] pivoting the extension segment relative to the base segment; and

[0200] disengaging the base segment of the parking rack system from the first portion of the vehicle.

[0201] DD. The method of clause CC, wherein the base segment includes at least one curved ramp surface that supports the parking rack system and the vehicle on a floor surface when the vehicle is transitioned from the horizontal position to the upright position.

[0202] EE. The method of clause CC or DD, wherein the extension segment includes at least one pole that engages the second portion of the vehicle in the second position, wherein a length of the at least one pole is adjustable.

[0203] FF. The method of any of clauses CC-EE, wherein transitioning the vehicle from the horizontal position to the upright position comprises:

[0204] removably coupling a connection mechanism to an upper portion of the vehicle; and

[0205] actuating the connection mechanism to rotate the vehicle and the parking support relative to the floor surface to transition the vehicle from the horizontal position to the upright position.

[0206] GG. The method of any of clauses CC-FF, wherein the extension segment includes at least one first bar pivotably coupled to the base segment and at least one second bar rigidly attached with the at least one first bar and positioned at an angle transverse to the at least one first bar, the at least one second bar engaging a second portion of the vehicle in a second position.

[0207] HH. The method of any of clauses CC-GG, wherein the extension segment includes at least one wheel, and wherein pivoting the extension segment causes the at least one wheel to transition from a non-floor-engaging position in which the at least one wheel of the extension segment is not engaged with a floor surface to a floor-engaging position in which the at least one wheel of the extension segment is engaged with a floor surface.

[0208] II. A parking support system for an industrial vehicle, comprising:

[0209] a support structure to support the vehicle on a floor surface when the vehicle is in a horizontal position, the support structure including a plurality of wheels; and

[0210] at least one first anchoring structure including:

[0211] a first body portion; and

[0212] at least one insertion element;

[0213] wherein the at least one first anchoring structure temporarily secures the support structure and vehicle in place on a floor surface when the vehicle is supported on the support structure in the horizontal position, and wherein the at least one first anchoring structure and the plurality of wheels remain in contact with the floor surface when the at least one first anchoring structure is securing the support structure and vehicle in place on the floor surface.

[0214] JJ. The parking support system of clause II, wherein the at least one insertion element of the at least one first anchoring structure is insertable into a corresponding opening in the support structure.

[0215] KK. The parking support system of clause JJ, wherein the opening in the support structure is positioned proximate to one of the plurality of wheels.

[0216] LL. The parking cradle system of any of clauses II-KK, further comprising at least one second anchoring structure that temporarily secures the cradle structure and vehicle in place on a floor surface when the vehicle is supported in the horizontal position on the cradle structure.

[0217] MM. The parking cradle system of clause LL, wherein the at least one second anchoring structure comprises:

[0218] a second body portion that is temporarily securable to a floor surface; and

[0219] a hook element that is removably attached to a component of the cradle structure.

[0220] NN. The parking cradle system of clause MM, wherein the at least one insertion element of the at least one first anchoring structure is inserted into a corresponding opening in the cradle structure in a first cradle structure position, the hook element of the at least one second anchoring structure is attached to a component of the cradle structure in a second cradle structure position, wherein the first cradle structure position is spaced apart from the second cradle structure position in a direction parallel to a vertical axis of the vehicle.

[0221] OO. The parking cradle system of any of clauses II-NN, wherein the at least one first anchoring structure is temporarily coupled to a floor surface by a fastener that engages the at least one first anchoring structure and is removably inserted into the floor surface.

[0222] PP. The parking cradle system of any of clauses II-OO, wherein the cradle structure further comprises at least one fork holding structure for supporting a fork that has been removed from the vehicle.

[0223] QQ. The parking cradle system of any of clauses II-PP, wherein the cradle structure comprises a nesting structure for supporting a second cradle structure.

[0224] RR. The parking cradle system of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising a plurality of wheel-less support elements for supporting the system when a vehicle is supported on the system.

[0225] SS. The parking cradle system of clause RR, wherein the plurality of wheel-less support elements comprise elongated track members whose surfaces extend along a floor surface when the system supports a vehicle in a horizontal position.

[0226] TT. The method of any of clauses U-HH, wherein the extension section includes a plurality of wheel-less support elements for supporting the system when a vehicle is supported on the system.

[0227] UU. The method of clause TT, wherein the plurality of wheel-less support elements includes elongate track members having surfaces that extend along the floor surface when the system supports a vehicle in a horizontal position.

[0228] VV. The parking rack system of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising at least one raising / lowering assembly for raising and lowering a positioning portion of the base section between a raised position in which the base section is distanced from the floor surface and a lowered position in which the base section is proximate to the floor surface.

[0229] Furthermore, the various features, aspects, and embodiments described herein can be used in any combination or alone.

[0230] Having thus described embodiments in detail, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

[0231] Furthermore, the various features, aspects, and embodiments described herein can be used in any combination or alone.

[0232] Having thus described embodiments in detail, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A parking support system for supporting an industrial vehicle in a horizontal position on a floor surface, the parking support system comprising: a base section removably attachable to a first portion of the vehicle in a first position; and an extension section removably attachable to a second portion of the vehicle in a second position, the second position being spaced apart from the first position in a first direction, the first direction being parallel to a vertical axis of the vehicle when positioned in an upright position; wherein the extension section is pivotably coupled to the base section.

2. The parking support system of claim 1, wherein the base section comprises a plurality of wheels for facilitating movement of the vehicle on the floor surface when the vehicle is supported in the horizontal position on the parking support system.

3. The parking support system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the extension section comprises a plurality of wheels for facilitating movement of the vehicle on the floor surface when the vehicle is supported in the horizontal position on the parking support system.

4. The parking support system of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one anchoring structure for temporarily securing the parking support system and the vehicle in place on the floor surface, wherein the at least one anchoring structure is temporarily coupled to the floor surface and to at least one of the base section or the extension section.

5. The parking support system of claim 4, wherein the at least one anchoring structure comprises: a body portion temporarily couplable to the floor surface; and at least one insertion element insertable into a corresponding opening of the at least one of the base section or the extension section.

6. The parking support system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base section comprises at least one curved ramp surface facing away from the vehicle when the base section is secured to the vehicle, the at least one curved ramp surface supporting the parking support system and the vehicle on the floor surface when the vehicle is transitioned from the upright position to the horizontal position.

7. The parking support system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the extension section comprises at least one first bar pivotably connected with the base section.

8. The parking support system of claim 7, wherein the extension section further comprises at least one second bar rigidly attached with the at least one first bar and positioned at an angle transverse to the at least one first bar, the at least one second bar engaging the second portion of the vehicle in the second position.

9. The parking support system of claim 8, wherein a length of the at least one second bar is adjustable.

10. The parking support system of claim 8 or 9, wherein when the base section is attached to the first portion of the vehicle and the extension section is attached to the second portion of the vehicle: the at least one first bar is positioned at an angle of approximately 90 degrees to the vertical axis of the vehicle when positioned in the upright position; and the at least one second bar is positioned at an angle of approximately 90 degrees to the vertical axis of the vehicle when positioned in the upright position. with the vehicle in the horizontal position, the at least one first bar is in a horizontal position, the at least one second bar is in a vertical position; and with the vehicle in the upright position, the at least one first bar is in a vertical position, the at least one second bar is in a horizontal position.

11. The parking rack system of any of the preceding claims, further comprising a connection mechanism removably coupled to an upper portion of the vehicle, wherein the connection mechanism is actuated to facilitate the conversion of the vehicle between the upright position and the horizontal position.

12. A parking rack system for converting an industrial vehicle from a first position to a second position, the parking rack system comprising: a rack structure comprising: a base section removably attachable to a first portion of the vehicle in the first position; and an extension section coupled to the base section and comprising at least one securing structure removably attachable to a second portion of the vehicle in the second position, the second position spaced apart from the first position in a first direction, the first direction parallel to a vertical axis when the vehicle is positioned in an upright position, wherein a length of the extension section is adjustable; wherein the vehicle is converted from the first position to the second position by rotating the rack structure and the vehicle supported thereon relative to a floor surface.

13. The parking rack system of claim 12, wherein the base section comprises a plurality of wheels for facilitating movement of the vehicle on the floor surface when the vehicle is supported on the parking rack system in the second position.

14. The parking rack system of claim 12 or 13, wherein the extension section comprises a plurality of wheels for facilitating movement of the vehicle on the floor surface when the vehicle is supported on the parking rack system in the second position.

15. The parking rack system of any of claims 12-14, further comprising at least one anchoring structure for temporarily securing the parking rack system and the vehicle in place on the floor surface, wherein the at least one anchoring structure is temporarily coupled to the floor surface and to at least one of the base section or the extension section.

16. The parking rack system of claim 15, wherein the at least one anchoring structure comprises: a body portion temporarily couplable to the floor surface; and at least one insertion element insertable into a corresponding opening of the at least one of the base section or the extension section.

17. The parking rack system of any of claims 12-16, wherein the base section comprises at least one curved ramp surface facing away from the vehicle when the base section is secured to the vehicle, the at least one curved ramp surface supporting the parking rack system and the vehicle on the floor surface when the vehicle is converted from the first position to the second position.

18. The parking rack system of any of claims 12-17, wherein the extension section includes at least one first bar connected with the base section.

19. The parking rack system of claim 18, wherein the extension section further includes at least one second bar rigidly attached with the at least one first bar and positioned at an angle transverse to the at least one first bar, the at least one second bar engaging a second portion of the vehicle in the second position.

20. The parking rack system of any of claims 12-19, further comprising a connection mechanism removably coupled to an upper portion of the vehicle, wherein the connection mechanism is actuated to facilitate the transition of the vehicle between the first position and the second position.

21. A method of transitioning an industrial vehicle between an upright position and a horizontal position with a parking rack system, the method comprising: removably attaching a base section of the parking rack system to a first portion of the vehicle in a first position; pivoting an extension section of the parking rack system relative to the base section; removably attaching the extension section of the parking rack system to a second portion of the vehicle in a second position, wherein: the extension section is pivotably coupled to the base section; and the second position is spaced apart from the first position in a first direction, the first direction being parallel to a vertical axis when the vehicle is positioned in the upright position; and transitioning the vehicle from the upright position to the horizontal position by rotating the vehicle and the parking rack system relative to a floor surface.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein the base section includes at least one curved ramp surface that supports the parking rack system and the vehicle on the floor surface when transitioning the vehicle from the upright position to the horizontal position.

23. The method of claim 21 or 22, further comprising: removably coupling an anchoring structure to the floor surface and to at least one of the base section or the extension section after transitioning the vehicle from the upright position to the horizontal position to secure the parking rack system and the vehicle supported thereon in place on the floor surface.

24. The method of any of claims 21-23, wherein the extension section includes at least one bar that engages a second portion of the vehicle in the second position, wherein a length of the at least one bar is adjustable.

25. The method of any of claims 21-24, wherein transitioning the vehicle from the upright position to the horizontal position comprises: removably coupling a connection mechanism to an upper portion of the vehicle; and actuating the connection mechanism to rotate the vehicle and the parking rack system relative to the floor surface to transition the vehicle from the upright position to the horizontal position.

26. The method of any of claims 21-25, wherein: the extension section includes: at least one first bar that is pivotably coupled to the base section; and at least one second bar that is rigidly attached with the at least one first bar and positioned at an angle transverse to the at least one first bar, the at least one second bar engaging a second portion of the vehicle in the second position. at least one second bar rigidly attached with and positioned at an angle transverse to the at least one first bar, the at least one second bar engaging a second portion of the vehicle in the second position; and pivoting the extension segment relative to the base segment includes pivoting the at least one first bar relative to the base segment from a horizontal position of the at least one first bar to a vertical position of the at least one first bar.

27. The method of any of claims 21-26, wherein once the vehicle is transitioned to the horizontal position, the vehicle is fully supported on the parking rack system.

28. The method of any of claims 21-27, wherein the extension segment includes at least one wheel, and wherein pivoting the extension segment causes the at least one wheel to transition from a floor-engaging position of the at least one wheel of the extension segment engaging a floor surface to a non-floor-engaging position of the at least one wheel of the extension segment not engaging a floor surface.

29. A method comprising: providing a parking rack system on which an industrial vehicle is supported in a horizontal position, the parking rack system including: a base segment removably attached to a first portion of the vehicle in a first position; and an extension segment pivotably coupled to the base segment and removably attached to a second portion of the vehicle in a second position, the second position spaced apart from the first position in a first direction, the first direction parallel to a vertical axis when the vehicle is positioned in an upright position; transitioning the vehicle from the horizontal position to the upright position by rotating the parking rack system and the vehicle supported thereon relative to a floor surface; disengaging the extension segment of the parking rack system from the second portion of the vehicle; pivoting the extension segment relative to the base segment; and disengaging the base segment of the parking rack system from the first portion of the vehicle.

30. The method of claim 29, wherein the base segment includes at least one curved ramp surface that supports the parking rack system and the vehicle on a floor surface as the vehicle is transitioned from the horizontal position to the upright position.

31. The method of claim 29 or 30, wherein the extension segment includes at least one bar that engages the second portion of the vehicle in the second position, wherein a length of the at least one bar is adjustable.

32. The method of any of claims 29-31, wherein transitioning the vehicle from the horizontal position to the upright position includes: removably coupling a connection mechanism to an upper portion of the vehicle; and actuating the connection mechanism to rotate the vehicle and the parking rack system relative to a floor surface to transition the vehicle from the horizontal position to the upright position.

33. The method of any of claims 29-32, wherein the extension section comprises: at least one first bar pivotably coupled to the base segment; and at least one second bar rigidly attached with the at least one first bar and positioned at an angle transverse to the at least one first bar, the at least one second bar engaged with a second portion of the vehicle in the second position.

34. The method of any one of claims 29-33, wherein the extension segment includes at least one wheel, and wherein pivoting the extension segment causes the at least one wheel to transition from a non-floor-engaging position in which the at least one wheel of the extension segment is not engaged with a floor surface to a floor-engaging position in which the at least one wheel of the extension segment is engaged with a floor surface.

35. A parking rack system for an industrial vehicle, comprising: a rack structure to support the vehicle on a floor surface when the vehicle is in a horizontal position, the rack structure including a plurality of wheels; and at least one first anchoring structure including: a first body portion; and at least one insertion element; wherein the at least one first anchoring structure temporarily secures the rack structure and vehicle in position on the floor surface when the vehicle is supported on the rack structure in the horizontal position, and wherein the at least one first anchoring structure and the plurality of wheels remain in contact with the floor surface when the at least one first anchoring structure is securing the rack structure and vehicle in position on the floor surface.

36. The parking rack system of claim 35, wherein the at least one insertion element of the at least one first anchoring structure is insertable into a corresponding opening in the rack structure.

37. The parking rack system of claim 36, wherein the opening in the rack structure is positioned proximate to one of the plurality of wheels.

38. The parking rack system of any one of claims 35-37, further comprising at least one second anchoring structure to temporarily secure the rack structure and vehicle in position on the floor surface when the vehicle is supported on the rack structure in the horizontal position.

39. The parking rack system of claim 38, wherein the at least one second anchoring structure includes: a second body portion temporarily securable to the floor surface; and a hook element removably attached to a component of the rack structure.

40. The parking rack system of claim 39, wherein the at least one insertion element of the at least one first anchoring structure is inserted into a corresponding opening in the rack structure in a first rack structure position, the hook element of the at least one second anchoring structure is attached to a component of the rack structure in a second rack structure position, wherein the first rack structure position is spaced apart from the second rack structure position in a direction parallel to a vertical axis of the vehicle.

41. The parking rack system of any one of claims 35-40, wherein the at least one first anchoring structure is temporarily coupled to the floor surface by a fastener that engages the at least one first anchoring structure and is removably inserted into the floor surface.

42. The parking rack system of any one of claims 35-41, wherein the rack structure further comprises at least one fork holding structure for supporting a fork that has been removed from a vehicle.

43. The parking rack system of any one of claims 35-42, wherein the rack structure comprises a nesting structure for supporting a second rack structure.

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