Lift truck with advantageous design elements

Abstract

Lift trucks designed with a common chassis may include ergonomic operator compartments, wheels, lift assemblies, power devices, energy sources, steering devices, seats, and counterweight components. The modular chassis design can adapt to different formation factors and different energy sources so as to adapt to lift trucks with different final purposes; comprising a low floor, seat-side steering and / or operator-inaccessible compartments for highly reliable components, and operator-accessible components for components that may require more frequent or convenient access. In one embodiment, the energy source is a lithium ion battery pack located in a compartment that is not accessible to an operator under a low, spacious floor that facilitates easy access and exit to the operator compartment as well as ergonomic operation of the operator.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on May 31, 2019, with application number 201910469637.8 and invention title "Lifting Vehicle with Advantageous Design Elements". Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 679,686, filed June 1, 2018, entitled “Modular LiftTruck Design Based on a Common Chassis,” pursuant to 35 U.S.SC §119(e). The entire disclosure of that provisional patent application is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The scope of this disclosure generally relates to material handling vehicles. More specifically, this disclosure relates to a lift vehicle with a modular design, which may include a common chassis and one of the following: a variety of different possible energy sources, an operator compartment with a low-width floor, and / or a combination of operator-inaccessible compartments for high-reliability components and operator-accessible compartments for operator-maintainable components. Background Technology

[0004] Lifting vehicles, including forklifts, are commonly used in manufacturing and warehousing facilities for lifting and transporting materials. A lifting vehicle comprises numerous components such as counterweights, hydraulic systems, electronics, a power source, wheels (and tires), a steering mechanism, an operator's seat within the operator's compartment, and lifting assembly, all supported by the vehicle's chassis. These lifting vehicles are ideally compact and maneuverable, with a small turning radius, a tight route, and the ability to repeatedly lift thousands of pounds of material with minimal maintenance. The operator (also known as the "driver") controls the lifting vehicle from the operator's compartment, often for multiple hours at a time, and can frequently enter and exit the operator's compartment to manually handle or adjust the transported materials. Operator comfort, visibility, and physical ease of operation within the operator's compartment are all linked to efficient material handling.

[0005] To improve mobility, gantry crane designs often sacrifice the ergonomics of the operator's compartment. For example, crane components are often arranged in a stacked vertical orientation to minimize the crane's length and width. This arrangement can result in a high floor in the operator's compartment, requiring the operator to use multiple vertical steps to enter and exit the crane. The high floor height of the operator's compartment relative to the ground is a drawback of commonly available gantry cranes and makes quick and easy entry and exit for the operator excessively cumbersome. The high floor height also increases the height of crane components located on or above the floor, such as overhead guards, operator seats, operator compartments, or sections of the crane assembly. This elevated position can obstruct visibility if there is limited visibility from the operator's seat; hinder the operator when entering, leaving, or within the operator's compartment; and undesirably raise the crane's center of gravity. Another known drawback of gantry cranes is the limited floor space within the operator's compartment. Columns and foot pedal controls extending from the floor can restrict the operator's leg and foot movement when using the crane. Without an ergonomically designed gantry crane, operator comfort and productivity can be negatively impacted. Summary of the Invention

[0006] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a lift vehicle with a modular design, which includes a common chassis that can accommodate one of various hydraulic systems, electronics, power sources, counterweights, wheels, steering, seats, and floor components configured in various assemblies, thereby providing the driver with ergonomic and highly productive vehicle operation.

[0007] One aspect of an ergonomic operator's compartment is achieving this by placing the compartment's floor relatively close to the ground, allowing the operator to comfortably enter and exit the compartment with just a single vertical step. A flat, wide floor within the operator's compartment also enhances operator comfort. Furthermore, it is advantageous for the floor to have few or no obstacles that the operator must avoid or manipulate when entering and exiting the compartment or operating the lift. For example, the operator's compartment may lack a steering wheel and / or foot pedal controls, instead featuring steering and / or control devices integrated into the operator's seat.

[0008] Often, it is desirable to design a lift vehicle that provides the lift vehicle driver with minimal or no obstruction from the operator's seat. This can be achieved, for example, by designing vehicle components with a low profile or tilting downwards at specific locations, such as behind the operator's seat, to allow for improved rearward visibility. The operator's seat itself can be positioned within the operator's compartment in a manner that provides quick entry and exit as well as sufficient legroom during routine vehicle operation. Furthermore, the operator's seat can be moved in a way that provides the operator with unobstructed vision both in front of and behind the lift vehicle without causing excessive strain on the eyes, neck, back, or legs. For example, the operator's seat can rotate about a vertical axis and is designed to slide forward and backward independently of or simultaneously with this rotation. In addition to, or instead of, rotational and / or sliding mechanisms, the seat may include a mechanism for vertically adjusting the seat height.

[0009] The chassis of a lift vehicle can be designed to include compartments containing specific components, which can be located in various positions within the vehicle. For example, chassis compartments may contain power sources, such as one or more batteries and / or electric motors, or hydraulic components for the lift assembly. Chassis compartments can be designed to be easily accessible to the operator, such as allowing for routine maintenance of components, or they can be designed to restrict operator access. Compartments that are not accessible to the operator may contain certain components of the lift vehicle that generally require little to no maintenance, such as maintenance-free batteries, motors, and / or hydraulic components.

[0010] A lifting vehicle typically comprises several standard components. For example, it has an energy source that supplies power to the vehicle, such as one or more lithium-ion or lead-acid batteries. The lifting vehicle is combined with a lifting assembly with attachments (such as forks) for vertically lifting loads. The lifting vehicle also has multiple wheels for moving the vehicle forward and backward. For example, a lifting vehicle may have three wheels, or it may have four wheels, or it may have more than four wheels. The lifting vehicle may include a top element, such as an over-the-top guard, above the operator's compartment. The vehicle components may be arranged horizontally rather than vertically using a carefully designed chassis. However, it is understood that vertical arrangements of the vehicle components using other advantageous configurations described herein are also possible, as are mixed horizontal and vertical arrangements.

[0011] In one embodiment, the lift vehicle includes a chassis having a front side, a rear side, a left side, and a right side. The lift vehicle also includes a plurality of wheels attached to the chassis at least at the front side. A counterweight may be attached to the rear side of the chassis, and a drive axle may be attached to the front side of the chassis. A chassis compartment may extend between the drive axle and the counterweight, and also between the left and right sides of the chassis. The lift vehicle may include an operator's seat located above an operator's compartment floor. The operator's compartment floor may be located above the chassis compartment and may extend between the left and right sides of the chassis, and also between the drive axle and the counterweight. The operator's compartment floor may be at least partially located below the operator's seat. The lift vehicle may include an energy source, an electric motor operably connected to the energy source and the drive axle, and a hydraulic system operably connected to the energy source.

[0012] In one embodiment, the lifting vehicle is a forklift truck, comprising a chassis having sides and a bottom configured to define a chassis compartment within the sides and above the bottom. The chassis also has a front end and a rear end. A plate on top of the chassis and securely attached to the chassis can form a top cover for the chassis compartment. The lifting vehicle may include an operator compartment defined at its bottom by a plate, thereby forming a floor plate for the operator compartment. It may also include a plurality of wheels attached to the chassis and configured to roll forward and backward and steer the forklift truck, and may include a lifting assembly attached to the chassis and having forks, wherein the lifting assembly is configured to vertically lift loads on the forks. The forklift truck may include a counterweight on the side of the vehicle opposite to the lifting assembly, and it may include a power unit that provides power to rotate one or more of the wheels and actuate the lifting assembly. The power unit may be located within the chassis compartment. The power unit may include a motor, a hydraulic tank, a hydraulic pump fluidly connected to the hydraulic tank, and hydraulic valves. The motor is electrically connected to a maintenance-free battery and configured to drive one or more hydraulic pumps and at least one of the wheels.

[0013] In another embodiment, the lift vehicle includes a chassis having a front end, a rear end, a left side, and a right side. Wheel sets are connected to the chassis. A counterweight may be attached near the rear end of the chassis, and a drive axle may be attached near the front end of the chassis. The drive axle may be attached to the front end of the chassis, and an electric motor may be located in the drive axle and configured to drive at least one of the wheels. A mast may be attached near the front end of the chassis. A chassis compartment may extend between the drive axle and the counterweight, and also between the left and right sides of the chassis. The lift vehicle may include an energy source and a hydraulic system located in the chassis compartment. The energy source is operatively connected to the electric motor and the hydraulic system. The lift vehicle may include an operator's seat in an operator's compartment. An operator's compartment floor may be located above the chassis compartment and may extend between the left and right sides of the chassis. The floor may also extend from the drive axle toward the counterweight such that the floor is at least partially located below the operator's seat.

[0014] In some embodiments, the lift vehicle includes a chassis having a front side, a rear side, a left side, and a right side. The lift vehicle also includes a plurality of wheels attached to the front side of the chassis, a drive axle attached to one or more of the wheels, a counterweight attached to the rear side of the chassis, a chassis compartment extending between the drive axle and the counterweight and between the left and right sides of the chassis, an operator's seat, and an operator's compartment floor above the chassis compartment, the floor extending between the left and right sides of the chassis and between the drive axle and the counterweight such that the operator's compartment floor is at least partially located below the operator's seat. The lift vehicle also includes an energy source, a motor operatively connected to the energy source and the drive axle, and a hydraulic system operatively connected to the energy source.

[0015] In some embodiments, the lift vehicle includes a chassis having a front side, a rear side, a left side, and a right side. The lift vehicle also includes one or more drive wheels attached to the front side of the chassis, a counterweight attached to the rear side of the chassis, a chassis compartment located between the one or more drive wheels and the counterweight and between the left and right sides of the chassis, an operator's seat, and an operator's compartment floor above the chassis compartment, wherein the floor is located between the left and right sides of the chassis and between the one or more drive wheels and the counterweight, such that the operator's compartment floor is at least partially located below the operator's seat. The lift vehicle also includes an energy source, a motor operatively connected to the energy source and the drive wheels, and a hydraulic system operatively connected to the energy source.

[0016] In some embodiments, the forklift includes a chassis having sides and a bottom, configured to define a chassis compartment within the sides and above the bottom, the chassis also having a front end and a rear end. The forklift also includes a plate on the chassis and connected to the top of the chassis, the plate forming a top cover for the chassis compartment. The forklift also includes an operator compartment defined by the plate at its bottom, forming a bottom plate for the operator compartment. The forklift also includes a plurality of wheels attached to the chassis and configured to roll to rotate the forklift forward and backward, a lifting assembly attached to the chassis near the front end of the chassis and having forks, the lifting assembly being configured to vertically lift a load on the forks, a counterweight placed near the rear end of the chassis, and a power unit providing power to rotate one or more of the plurality of wheels and drive the lifting assembly. An energy source is located within the chassis compartment and includes a maintenance-free battery. A hydraulic tank, a hydraulic pump fluidly connected to the hydraulic tank, a motor electrically connected to the maintenance-free battery and configured to drive one or more hydraulic pumps or at least one of the plurality of wheels, and hydraulic valves are also located within the chassis compartment.

[0017] In some embodiments, the lift vehicle includes a chassis having a front end, a rear end, a left side, and a right side. The lift vehicle also includes a wheel assembly connected to the chassis, a counterweight near the rear end of the chassis, a drive axle near the front end of the chassis, a motor located in the drive axle and configured to drive at least one wheel or wheel assembly, a mast near the front end of the chassis, a chassis compartment extending between the vicinity of the drive axle and the vicinity of the counterweight and between the left and right sides of the chassis, a hydraulic system located in the chassis compartment, an energy source located in the chassis compartment and operatively connected to the electric motor and the hydraulic system, an operator's seat, and an operator compartment floor above the chassis compartment, wherein the floor extends between the left and right sides of the chassis and its height does not exceed approximately 20 inches above the ground.

[0018] In some embodiments, the lift vehicle includes a chassis having a front side, a rear side, a left side, and a right side. The lift vehicle also includes a plurality of wheels, including one or more drive wheels, a counterweight, and a chassis compartment located between the front and rear sides of the chassis and between the left and right sides of the chassis, wherein the chassis compartment has a chassis compartment area between the one or more drive wheels and the counterweight and between the left and right sides of the chassis. The lift vehicle also includes an operator's seat and an operator's compartment floor located above the chassis compartment, wherein the operator's compartment floor is located within the chassis compartment, between approximately 10 inches and approximately 30 inches (or 25-75 cm) above the ground, and the floor area is greater than or equal to 60% of the chassis compartment area. The lift vehicle also includes an energy source, a motor operably connected to the energy source and one or more drive wheels, and a hydraulic system operably connected to the energy source.

[0019] In some embodiments, the lift vehicle includes a chassis having a front side, a rear side, a left side, and a right side. The lift vehicle also includes a plurality of wheels, comprising one or more drive wheels having a drive wheel height, a counterweight, and a chassis compartment located between the front and rear sides of the chassis and between the left and right sides of the chassis, wherein the chassis compartment has a chassis compartment area between the front and rear sides of the chassis and between the left and right sides of the chassis. The lift vehicle also includes an operator's seat, an operator's compartment floor above the chassis compartment, wherein the operator's compartment floor is located within the chassis compartment, the floor height is less than or equal to the drive wheel height, and the floor area is greater than or equal to 60% of the chassis compartment area. The lift vehicle also includes an energy source, a motor operatively connected to the energy source and one or more drive wheels, and a hydraulic system operatively connected to the energy source.

[0020] In some embodiments, the component inventory for assembling the lifting vehicle includes a plurality of wheels, including drive wheels and steering wheels; a plurality of interchangeable counterweights, including a first counterweight having a first weight value and a second counterweight having a different second weight value; a plurality of interchangeable operator seats, including a first seat having a first seat configuration and a second seat having a different second seat configuration; an energy source; a motor for operatively connecting to one or more energy sources and one or more drive wheels; a hydraulic system; and a chassis having a front side, a rear side, a left side, and a right side, wherein the chassis is adapted to be operatively connected to one or more drive wheels; wherein the chassis is adapted to be operatively connected to one or more steering wheels; wherein the chassis has a chassis compartment located between the front and rear sides of the chassis and between the left and right sides of the chassis; wherein the chassis compartment is adapted to accommodate an operator seat of either the first or second seat configuration; wherein the chassis is adapted to accommodate a counterweight of either the first or second weight value; wherein the chassis is adapted to support at least one energy source; wherein the chassis is adapted to support at least one of the motors; and wherein the chassis is adapted to support at least one of the hydraulic systems.

[0021] In some embodiments, the chassis for the modular lifting vehicle includes a front, rear, left, and right side. The chassis also includes one or more first wheel connection areas adapted for operative connection to one or more drive wheels; one or more second wheel connection areas adapted for operative connection to one or more steering wheels; a chassis compartment located between the front and rear sides of the chassis and between the left and right sides of the chassis; a counterweight area adapted to accommodate either a first or second different weight value of interchangeable counterweights; an energy source area adapted to support an energy source; a motor area adapted to support a motor; and a hydraulic system area adapted to support a hydraulic system. The chassis compartment is adapted to accommodate either a first or second different seating configuration of interchangeable operator seats.

[0022] In some embodiments, the method of constructing a lifting vehicle includes forming a chassis adapted for operative connection to modular components, wherein the chassis includes a front, rear, left, and right side; one or more first wheel connection areas adapted for operative connection to one or more drive wheels; and one or more second wheel connection areas adapted for operative connection to one or more steering wheels. The chassis includes a chassis compartment located between the front and rear sides and between the left and right sides; a counterweight area adapted to accommodate either a first or second different weight value of interchangeable counterweights; an energy source area adapted to support an energy source; a motor area adapted to support a motor; and a hydraulic system area adapted to support a hydraulic system. An operator compartment above the chassis compartment is adapted to accommodate either a first or second different seating configuration of interchangeable operator seats. The method further includes operably connecting one or more drive wheels to a drive wheel connection area, operably connecting one or more steering wheels to a steering wheel connection area, operably connecting an operator seat to an operator compartment, operably connecting a counterweight to a counterweight area; operably connecting an energy source to an energy source area, operably connecting a motor to a motor area and to the energy source and one or more drive wheels, and operably connecting a hydraulic system to a hydraulic system area.

[0023] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the lift truck employs multiple motors.

[0024] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, the drive axle is attached to one or more drive wheels, wherein an electric motor is located in the drive axle.

[0025] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the hydraulic system is located in the chassis compartment.

[0026] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, the hydraulic system includes a hydraulic pump and a motor configured to operate the hydraulic pump.

[0027] In some additional, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, the hydraulic system also includes a hydraulic tank and hydraulic valves fluidly connected to the hydraulic pump.

[0028] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the hydraulic pump is connected directly to the hydraulic tank without the need for hoses.

[0029] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the chassis compartment may also include an operator-inaccessible compartment.

[0030] In some other, alternative, or selectively added embodiments, the operator compartment floor is not easily removed by the operator and includes a cover for the chassis compartment that is inaccessible to the operator.

[0031] In some other, alternative, or selectively added embodiments, the operator compartment floor extends substantially flat from one side to the other across almost the entire width of the lift.

[0032] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the operator compartment floor is between approximately 10 inches and approximately 30 inches (or approximately 25-76 cm) above the ground.

[0033] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the operator compartment floor is between approximately 15 inches and approximately 25 inches (or approximately 38-63 cm) above the ground.

[0034] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the operator compartment floor is between approximately 17 inches and approximately 22 inches (or approximately 43-56 cm) above the ground.

[0035] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the operator compartment floor is between approximately 18 inches and 20 inches (or approximately 45-51 cm) above the ground.

[0036] In some other, alternative, or selectively added embodiments, the operator compartment floor is approximately 19 inches (or approximately 48 centimeters) above the ground.

[0037] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, one or more of the drive wheels have a drive wheel height, and the floor height of the operator compartment floor is less than or equal to the drive wheel height, 95% of the drive wheel height, 90% of the drive wheel height, 85% of the drive wheel height, 80% of the drive wheel height, or 75% of the drive wheel height.

[0038] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, one or more of the drive wheels have a drive wheel height, and the average floor height of the operator compartment floor is less than or equal to the drive wheel height, 95% of the drive wheel height, 90% of the drive wheel height, 85% of the drive wheel height, 80% of the drive wheel height, or 75% of the drive wheel height.

[0039] In some additional, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, one or more of the drive wheels have a drive wheel height, and the height of a portion of the operator compartment floor is less than or equal to the drive wheel height, 95% of the drive wheel height, 90% of the drive wheel height, 85% of the drive wheel height, 80% of the drive wheel height, or 75% of the drive wheel height.

[0040] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, one or more of the drive wheels have a drive wheel height and a drive wheel radius height, and a portion of the operator compartment floor has a floor height between the drive wheel height and the drive wheel radius height.

[0041] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, one or more rear wheels have a rear wheel radius height, one or more drive wheels have a drive wheel height, and a portion of the operator compartment floor has a floor height between the drive wheel height and the rear wheel radius height.

[0042] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the operator compartment floor is raised above the ground by a distance that allows the operator to comfortably step into or out of the operator compartment.

[0043] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the operator compartment floor is raised above the ground by a distance that allows the operator to comfortably step into and out of the operator compartment from the ground.

[0044] In some additional, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, the top area of ​​the chassis compartment is between one or more drive wheels and counterweights and between the left and right sides of the chassis, and the bottom area of ​​the operator compartment floor is greater than or equal to 95%, 90%, 85%, 80%, 75%, or 60% of the chassis compartment area.

[0045] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, the chassis compartment area is between the drive axle and the counterweight and between the left and right sides of the chassis, and the floor area of ​​the operator compartment floor is greater than or equal to 95%, 90%, 85%, 80%, 75%, or 60% of the chassis compartment area.

[0046] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, the substantially flat floor area of ​​the operator compartment floor is greater than or equal to 50%, 60%, or 70% of the chassis compartment area.

[0047] In some additional, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, the operator-accessible compartment has a roof, and the operator-maintainable components are located within the operator-accessible compartment.

[0048] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the operator-accessible compartment is located above the counterweight.

[0049] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, the top cover is tilted downward toward the rear of the lift vehicle.

[0050] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the operator-maintainable components are one of the following: motor controller, fuse, VSM, contactor, or any combination thereof.

[0051] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the counterweight comprises multiple distinct components.

[0052] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the counterweight is a two-piece counterweight.

[0053] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the energy source includes a battery.

[0054] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the energy source includes maintenance-free batteries.

[0055] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the maintenance-free battery is a lithium-based battery.

[0056] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the operator seat is attached to the operator compartment floor.

[0057] In some additional, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the operator seat may rotate about a vertical axis.

[0058] In some additional, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, the operator seat rotation range is approximately ±360 degrees, ±270 degrees, ±180 degrees, ±90 degrees, ±60 degrees, ±30 degrees, or ±22 degrees in the forward-facing direction.

[0059] In some additional, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the operator seat is configured to slide backward as the seat rotates so as to keep the operator's legs within the operator compartment when the seat rotates.

[0060] In some additional, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, the operator seat has a bottom having a front edge, a left edge, a right edge, and a rear edge; and the operator compartment floor plate extends substantially flatly back and forth from the front cover near the front of the lift vehicle to the rear floor plate edge behind the front edge of the seat bottom.

[0061] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, there is a certain amount of legroom on the operator's compartment floor to allow the operator to swing their legs laterally while keeping their feet above the floor.

[0062] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, a manually operated operator controller is integrated into the seat.

[0063] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the lift truck does not have a steering wheel extending from the operator's compartment floor.

[0064] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the lift vehicle does not have a foot pedal controller.

[0065] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, the seat includes at least one armrest, and the operator controller is located on at least one armrest.

[0066] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, the lift vehicle includes a steering wheel.

[0067] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the steering wheel is mounted on a steering column attached to the floor of the operator's compartment.

[0068] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the lift vehicle includes one or more foot pedal controllers.

[0069] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the operator compartment floor provides structural strength to the chassis to resist chassis deflection.

[0070] In some additional, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, the lift includes an over-the-top guard above the operator's seat.

[0071] In some additional, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, the plurality of wheels includes at least one left wheel and at least one right wheel, and the operator compartment floor extends from the at least one left wheel from one side to the at least one right wheel.

[0072] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the multiple wheels consist of three wheels.

[0073] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the multiple wheels consist of four wheels.

[0074] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, the lift vehicle includes a drive axle attached to one or more of the drive wheels; and the lift vehicle includes a mast attached to the drive axle.

[0075] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, the lifting vehicle includes a lifting assembly attached to the chassis and having forks.

[0076] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, the lifting assembly includes at least one of a paper roll clamp, a carton clamp, a multi-fork assembly, and a lateral shifter.

[0077] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, the lifting vehicle includes a tilting mechanism connected to the lifting assembly to selectively tilt the lifting assembly.

[0078] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the energy source includes batteries stored beneath the operator's compartment floor.

[0079] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, the lift includes a drive wheel height of the drive wheels, and the lift includes a center of gravity located at a height of the center of gravity that is lower than or equal to the drive wheel height.

[0080] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, the lift includes the floor height of the operator compartment floor and the lift includes a center of gravity located at a height less than or equal to the floor height.

[0081] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, the lift vehicle includes a steering wheel having a steering wheel height, and the lift vehicle includes a center of gravity located at a center of gravity height that is lower than or equal to the steering wheel height.

[0082] In some additional, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, the lift includes an unobstructed direct line of sight from the operator, who is of average male height, seated in the operator's seat, to the front top of an object less than or equal to 165 mm in height, within 892 mm, 700 mm, 600 mm, 500 mm, or 388 mm behind the lift.

[0083] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative implementations, the compartment is equally accessible to the operator from both sides of the lift.

[0084] In some other, alternative, or selectively cumulative embodiments, the chassis compartment has a chassis compartment height from the floor to the over-the-top guard that is greater than or equal to 5 feet (about 152 cm), 5.5 feet (about 168 cm), or 6 feet (about 183 cm).

[0085] Selective accumulation implementation is an implementation that includes any combination of multiple non-exclusive implementations.

[0086] Other aspects and advantages will become apparent from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0087] Figure 1 This is an isometric view of the lifting vehicle from the right front, according to one embodiment.

[0088] Figure 2 Perspective from the left rear Figure 1 An isometric view of the lifting vehicle.

[0089] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The right-side view of the lifting vehicle.

[0090] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 The left side view of the lifting vehicle.

[0091] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A top view of the lifting vehicle.

[0092] Figure 6 This is an isometric view of a lift car with seat-side turning, taken from the right front, according to one embodiment.

[0093] Figure 7A and Figure 7B Perspective from the left rear Figure 6 An isometric view of the lifting vehicle, showing it in a closed ( Figure 7A ) and open ( Figure 7B An example rear compartment configuration.

[0094] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 The left side view of the lifting vehicle.

[0095] Figure 9 yes Figure 6 The right-side view of the lifting vehicle.

[0096] Figure 10A , Figure 10B , Figure 10C and Figure 10D An embodiment of a seat-side steering controller that can be used in a lift vehicle is shown, including... Figure 6 The car. Figure 10A This is an isometric view of the lifting vehicle from the right rear, according to one embodiment. Figure 10B Perspective from the right front Figure 10A An isometric view of the lifting vehicle. Figure 10C yes Figure 10A The right-side view of the lifting vehicle. Figure 10D This is an isometric view of the elevator from the left front, based on one embodiment, magnified to show more details.

[0097] Figure 11 yes Figure 6 Front view of the lifting vehicle.

[0098] Figure 12 yes Figure 6 A top view of the lifting vehicle.

[0099] Figure 13 This is an isometric view of the chassis of the lifting vehicle from the left front, according to one embodiment.

[0100] Figure 14 This is an illustration of an implementation of a lift vehicle with a lithium-ion battery-based energy source and seat-side steering. In a partially exploded left-side view, the operator compartment (top) is shown above the battery pack (center) and the chassis (bottom).

[0101] Figure 15A yes Figure 13 A top view of the battery pack and chassis of the implementation method of the lifting vehicle.

[0102] Figure 15B yes Figure 13 A top view of the battery pack and chassis of an alternative implementation of the lifting vehicle.

[0103] Figure 16 It is an isometric view of a lift vehicle with a lead-acid battery-based power source and seat-side steering, taken from the left front perspective according to one embodiment.

[0104] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 The exploded left view of the lift truck shows the operator's compartment (top) above the lead-acid battery (center) and the chassis (bottom).

[0105] Figure 18A yes Figure 17 A top view of the battery and chassis of the lifting vehicle.

[0106] Figure 18B yes Figure 17 A top view of the battery and chassis of an alternative implementation of the lifting vehicle, wherein the forks and mast have been removed.

[0107] Figure 19 It is an isometric view of a lift vehicle with a hydrogen fuel cell-based energy source and seat-side steering, taken from the left front, according to one embodiment.

[0108] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 The exploded left view of the lift truck shows the operator's compartment (top) above the hydrogen fuel cell-based energy source (center) and chassis (bottom).

[0109] Figure 21A yes Figure 20 A top view of the energy source and chassis of the lifting vehicle.

[0110] Figure 21B yes Figure 20 A top view of the energy source and chassis of an alternative implementation of the lifting vehicle, wherein the forks and mast have been removed.

[0111] Figure 22 It is an isometric view of a lift vehicle with an internal combustion engine-based energy source and seat-side steering, taken from the left front, according to one embodiment.

[0112] Figure 23 yes Figure 22 The partial exploded left and top views of the lifting vehicle show the operator's compartment (top) above the internal combustion engine-based energy source (center) and chassis (bottom).

[0113] Figure 24A yes Figure 23 A top view of the energy source and chassis of the lifting vehicle.

[0114] Figure 24B yes Figure 24A The accompanying illustration shows the fork and mast removed.

[0115] Figure 25A and Figure 25B (Collectively referred to as FIG25) are left rear and left front partial sectional views, respectively, showing exemplary counterweight designs for use in lifting vehicles according to various embodiments, which are capable of accommodating different energy sources and drive components and devices.

[0116] Figure 26 According to one embodiment, it has a perspective view from the left rear and has the same Figure 1 Isometric views of the lifting vehicle with different forming factors.

[0117] Figure 27 It is based on one embodiment having and Figure 1 The right-side view of the lifting vehicle with different additional forming factors.

[0118] Figure 28 This is an isometric view of a lift vehicle with a short canopy and seat-side turning, taken from the left rear view according to one embodiment.

[0119] Figure 29 This is an isometric view of the lift from the right front, according to one embodiment, with the mast and fork chassis removed.

[0120] Figure 30 This is an isometric view of an additional lifting vehicle from the right front perspective according to one embodiment, with the mast and fork chassis removed.

[0121] Figure 31This is a right-side view of the lift truck, comparing the line of sight of the old lift truck with the line of sight achievable according to one embodiment of the lift truck disclosed herein.

[0122] Figure 32 This is a top view of the lifting vehicle, comparing the floor area of ​​the old lifting vehicle with the floor area of ​​an embodiment of the lifting vehicle disclosed herein. Detailed Implementation

[0123] The following description of exemplary embodiments is based on the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the sizes, positions, and any distances between parts, features, elements, etc., are not necessarily drawn to scale and may be disproportionate and / or exaggerated for clarity.

[0124] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular exemplary embodiments only and is not restrictive. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should be understood that, when used herein, the terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having,” and their various tenses, specify the presence of the stated feature, part, step, operation, element, and / or component, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, parts, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof. Unless otherwise stated, when referenced, the range of values ​​includes the upper and lower limits of that range, and any subranges in between. Unless otherwise stated, terms such as “first,” “second,” etc., are used only to distinguish one element from another and do not imply any relative order, position, or hierarchy. For example, one element may be referred to as “first element,” and similarly, another element may be referred to as “second element,” and vice versa. The section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the subject matter described.

[0125] Unless otherwise stated, the terms “about,” “approximately,” “substantially,” etc., indicate quantities, sizes, formulations, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics that are not and need not be precise, but may be approximate and / or larger or smaller as required, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding, measurement errors, and the like, as well as other factors known to those skilled in the art.

[0126] Spatial relative terms such as “right,” “left,” “below,” “under,” “below,” “above,” and “up” may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another (as shown in the figures). It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations beyond those depicted in the figures. For example, if the objects in the figures are flipped, an element described as “below” or “below” other elements or features would be oriented “above” other elements or features. Thus, the term “below” can, for example, include both up and down orientations. Objects may be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other directions), and the spatial relative descriptive terms used herein may be interpreted accordingly.

[0127] Unless otherwise expressly stated, all connections and all operational connections may be direct or indirect. Similarly, unless otherwise expressly stated, all connections and all operational connections may be rigid or non-rigid.

[0128] Similar numbers always represent similar elements. Therefore, even if the same or similar numbers are neither mentioned nor described in the corresponding figures, they can be described with reference to other figures. Moreover, elements not represented by the figure labels can even be described with reference to other figures. In addition, the figures may include non-essential elements included only for the sake of thoroughness. If it is necessary to change the figures to improve clarity, these non-essential elements may be removed entirely or left only in outline form.

[0129] The embodiments described herein are merely examples and are presented by way of illustration and not limitation. Those skilled in the art will recognize, based on the teachings herein, that there are alternatives, variations, and equivalents to the exemplary embodiments and components described herein. For example, other embodiments are readily achievable, variations can be made to the embodiments described herein, and equivalents of the components, parts, or steps constituting the described embodiments may exist.

[0130] For the sake of clarity and brevity, certain aspects of the components or steps of some embodiments are presented without excessive detail, wherein such details are obvious to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein, and / or such details would obscure a more relevant understanding of the embodiments.

[0131] Based on this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that certain embodiments of the lift vehicle disclosed herein and their designs may achieve certain advantages, including in some cases one or more of the following: (1) an operator compartment with a low floor for comfortable entry into, exit from, and operation of the vehicle within the operator compartment; (2) an operator compartment with few or no obstructions for operator movement, particularly along the floor of the operator compartment; (3) an operator-inaccessible chassis compartment that prevents operator interference with high-reliability components, ideally operated only by specially trained maintenance personnel; (4) a low-profile design for operator visibility; (5) a low center of gravity for enhanced stability; (6) multi-piece counterweights of varying densities; (7) a modular chassis design whose formation factor is adaptable to a variety of operator uses and accommodates one of a variety of possible energy sources, power units, and / or other components, thereby providing lift vehicle manufacturers with design options to allow for various combinations of these components in different locations, while also being tailored to the specific use of the customer; and (8) an operator compartment with a configurable storage system for tools and devices required to perform daily tasks. The above and other advantages of the various implementation methods will become apparent when reading this document.

[0132] Figure 1 and Figure 2 These are front and rear isometric views of a lifting vehicle 100 according to an example embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 1 The lift vehicle 100 may include an operator compartment 105 and a mast 110 having a mastpost 115. Any type of mast may be used for the lift vehicle disclosed herein. For example, mast 110 may be an embodiment of the mast disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 2017 / 0073203, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0133] The lift 100 has a chassis 130 below an operator compartment 105, which includes an operator seat 140 and an operator compartment floor 150. The chassis 130 can be designed to be modular to accommodate various components in various locations to meet the specific needs of the operator. Therefore, the chassis 130 may include compartments designed to contain certain components and can be placed in certain locations within the lift 100. Additionally, the operator compartment floor 150 can be low and spacious, providing a configurable area 152 within the operator compartment 105. The configurable area 152 may include shelves or other devices for storage within the operator compartment 105, such as cup holders, brackets for computerized devices (such as GPS devices or inventory devices), mini-fridges or other food storage compartments, or one or more other compartments adapted for storing other operator items, such as tools or safety vests or jackets.

[0134] The chassis 130 may have sides and a bottom, the sides and bottom being configured to define a chassis compartment located within the sides and above the bottom. The chassis compartment can be accessed from the front end of the chassis, such as from the drive axle 324 ( Figure 10B (It may extend along the axis (or centerline) between the centers of the drive wheels), extending to the counterweight 112, which is attached to the rear side or rear end of the chassis 130. The position of the front and rear ends of the chassis 130 is referenced to the operator seated in seat 140 in operator compartment 105, looking directly forward toward mast 110 along longitudinal axis 125. The chassis compartment may extend between the left and right sides of the chassis, i.e., across the entire width of the lift vehicle 100, or it may extend between a subset of the width of the lift vehicle 100. The chassis compartment may contain an energy source, such as, for example, one or more batteries, and / or a motor, and hydraulic components for the lifting assembly, such as a hydraulic motor, a hydraulic tank, and / or at least one hydraulic valve.

[0135] The chassis 130 may include one or more counterweights 112 made of one or more components. Figure 2 (As shown in the diagram), each component has one or more properties, such as tensile strength and density. In some cases, a counterweight 112 formed by or made of multiple counterweight components can be considered a functional unit, which may be simply referred to as "counterweight" here. Therefore, the term "counterweight" can refer to a single counterweight or a functional unit comprising multiple counterweight components, depending on the context. Optionally, the chassis compartment may contain one or more counterweights 112. For example, the counterweight 112 may be a two-piece counterweight comprising multiple SAE J431 gray cast iron casting grades. The counterweight 112 may be attached to the side of the chassis compartment away from the mast, that is, it may be attached to the rear or rear end of the chassis.

[0136] The chassis compartment may be located, for example, below the operator compartment floor 150 and / or behind the seat 140. Depending on the design of the chassis 130, the components of the chassis 130 may define a single chassis compartment or multiple chassis compartments. For example, if the main structural members of the chassis are located on the sides and bottom, a single chassis compartment may be defined. Alternatively, if there are lateral and / or longitudinal reinforcements on the chassis, multiple chassis compartments may be possible.

[0137] A plate can be used to form a cover for a chassis compartment, such as a top cover. The plate can be designed to be difficult for the operator to remove, creating a chassis compartment that is not easily accessible to the operator when the plate is on the chassis, thus forming an operator-inaccessible chassis compartment. The operator compartment floor 150 can be made wholly or partially of a plate. For example, the location of the inaccessible compartment may be below the floor 150 of the operator compartment 105. The inaccessible compartment can be used to contain vehicle components that do not require frequent maintenance, such as maintenance-free batteries, which may be covered by manufacturer warranty or require specialized training for servicing. In one embodiment, the inaccessible chassis compartment includes an energy source comprising a maintenance-free battery. The energy source can provide power to rotate the vehicle's wheels to actuate a lifting assembly, or to rotate the wheels and actuate the lifting assembly.

[0138] The lifting vehicle 100 includes an energy source that stores the vehicle's energy. Energy from the energy source can be converted by a power unit to power one or more of the multiple wheels to propel the vehicle forward and backward and actuate the lifting assembly. The energy source used to rotate the wheels and propel the vehicle can be the same as or different from the energy source used for the lifting assembly. The term "energy source" is used herein to refer to one or more of fuel, fuel conversion devices, batteries, and battery packs. The power unit can include, but is not limited to, an electric motor, an internal combustion engine, a hydrogen fuel cell, or any combination thereof. For example, the energy source for propulsing and steering the vehicle can be a lithium-ion battery or a lead-acid battery or multiple such battery packs, and the lifting assembly and / or wheels can be directly or indirectly actuated by an electric motor powered by one or more batteries. In another embodiment, the energy source is a hydrogen fuel cell that powers the electric motor and / or an electric pump. In some embodiments, the energy source includes a lithium-ion battery or a hydrogen fuel cell. In certain circumstances, "fuel" can refer to electricity, fossil fuels such as gasoline or diesel, or battery components such as lead-acid or lithium-ion, or hydrogen, such as in liquid or gaseous form. In some cases, "power unit" can refer to a fuel cell, motor, or internal combustion engine, or any device that converts energy into physical motion of the lift or its hydraulic system.

[0139] The energy source may be located partially or wholly within one or more chassis compartments, such as placing the battery pack, electric motor, and hydraulic system for lifting components in a chassis compartment inaccessible to the operator, and placing electronic components (e.g., electro-electronic devices such as motor controllers, fuses, vehicle controllers, such as vehicle system modules or "VSMs," and contactors) in an operator-accessible compartment. All or some components of the energy source may be maintenance-free, or at least one component may require periodic maintenance, such as annually or semi-annually. The energy source may be a low-maintenance or maintenance-free battery or battery pack, such as a lithium-ion battery or battery pack. In some cases, a battery pack of multiple batteries may be considered a single functional unit, which may be simply referred to as a "battery" here. Therefore, depending on the context, the term "battery" may refer to a single battery or a functional unit comprising multiple batteries.

[0140] The operator seat 140 is rotatable about a vertical axis 145 to provide the operator with rear and forward visibility from the vehicle. For example, the operator seat 140 can rotate from a forward-facing position by approximately ±22 degrees. The operator seat 140 can rotate from a forward-facing position by approximately ±30 degrees. The operator seat 140 can rotate from a forward-facing position by approximately ±60 degrees. The operator seat 140 can rotate from a forward-facing position by approximately ±90 degrees. The operator seat 140 can rotate from a forward-facing position by approximately ±180 degrees. The operator seat 140 can rotate from a forward-facing position by approximately ±270 degrees. The operator seat 140 can rotate from a forward-facing position by approximately ±360 degrees.

[0141] Depending on the layout of other components in operator compartment 105 or cost considerations, operator seat 140 may be intentionally limited to a rotation range of less than or equal to approximately ±270 degrees, ±180 degrees, ±90 degrees, ±60 degrees, or ±30 degrees. For example, the rotation range of operator seat 140 may be approximately ±15-25 degrees from the forward-facing direction, ±20-25 degrees from the forward-facing direction, or ±18-22 degrees from the forward-facing direction. In one embodiment, the rotation range of operator seat 140 is approximately ±22 degrees from the forward-facing direction. It will also be understood that the rotation range does not need to be the same in the clockwise and counterclockwise directions.

[0142] The operator seat 140 can be configured to slide backward, sideways, forward, or a combination of these directions during rotation. The operator seat 140 can be vertically adjusted. In one embodiment, the operator seat 140 has a bottom having a front edge, a left edge, a right edge, and a rear edge. The operator seat 140 may have one armrest, two armrests, or no armrests. In one embodiment, the operator seat 140 includes at least one armrest.

[0143] The lifting vehicle 100 includes a lifting assembly for lifting loads. For example, a mast 110 may support a fork carriage (or bracket backrest) 160, which has at least one fork 165 connected thereto. The fork carriage 160 can be raised to different heights by movement of the mast 110 and is part of the lifting assembly. The lifting assembly is configured to vertically lift loads on the forks using, for example, a hydraulic system. The lifting assembly may also include paper roll clamps, carton clamps, multi-fork assemblies, side shifters, and other suitable accessories. In one embodiment, the lifting assembly includes an extension assembly, such as a telescoping extension assembly. The lifting assembly is connected to a chassis 130. The power source of the lifting vehicle 100 includes components for the lifting assembly, such as a hydraulic tank, a hydraulic pump fluidly connected to the hydraulic tank, a motor connected to the hydraulic pump, and at least one hydraulic valve. The hydraulic pump may be connected to the hydraulic tank via a hose, or it may be directly connected without a hose.

[0144] In one embodiment, the lift vehicle 100 includes a tilting mechanism connected to the lifting assembly to tilt the top of the mast 110 slightly backward, and thus the end of the fork 165 slightly upward, to more stably bear the load.

[0145] The lift vehicle 100 may include a top section with an over-the-top guard 170 extending above the operator compartment 105 to protect the operator from hazards such as falling materials. The lift vehicle 100 may include a top section above the operator compartment 105, forming a cover for the operator compartment 105. In one embodiment, the over-the-top guard 170 is solid and opaque, for example, serving as a sunshade to protect the operator from sunlight when using the vehicle outdoors. Alternatively, the over-the-top guard 170 may be wholly or partially transparent or translucent and / or have one or more openings to allow the operator to see the fork 165, the top of the mast 110, and / or its load when the mast 110 is raised. In another embodiment, the over-the-top guard 170 includes a sheet of plexiglass over substantially the entire top section area of ​​the over-the-top guard 170 to maximize overhead visibility for the operator. In one embodiment, a tilting mechanism may be incorporated into or attached to the over-the-top guard.

[0146] In one embodiment, the overhead guard 170 may have an optional recess (not shown) on one side. When the recess is present, it facilitates access to heavy objects by cranes, lifts, or the like within the operator compartment 105 or in the chassis compartment below the operator compartment 105. For example, as part of a battery replacement operation, a crane, lift, or the like can be used to lift lead-acid batteries into or out of the chassis compartment.

[0147] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 The rear isometric view of the lift 100 shown includes a steering wheel 135 within an operator compartment 105. The lift 100 has two front wheels 192 and two rear wheels 191. The steering wheel 135 is configured to turn the rear wheels 191 when the lift moves forward or backward. The steering wheel 135 is mounted on a steering column 137. In one embodiment, the steering wheel 135 may be mounted on the steering column 137, which is attached to and extends from the floor plate 150 of the operator compartment 105. In one embodiment, no steering wheel or steering column is present in the operator compartment 105. For example, a steering controller may be integrated into the operator seat 140 of the lift 100.

[0148] refer to Figure 2 The vehicle 100 has a panel 111 located behind the operator's seat 140. The panel 111 may be a cover for a rear compartment located above the counterweight 112, and may contain, for example, electrical electronics or other vehicle parts. The panel 111 is preferably tilted downwards in a rearward direction behind the operator's seat. The downward tilt of the panel 111 enhances the operator's visibility when the vehicle 100 travels in the reverse or rearward direction. The panel 111 may be a cover for a compartment accessible to the operator. In one embodiment, the panel 111 does not serve as a cover for a compartment.

[0149] A foot pedal controller, such as foot pedal 155, may be present on the floor 150 of the operator compartment 105. The foot pedal controller may include an accelerator, a brake, and a micro pedal. Alternatively, the operator compartment floor 150 may not have a foot pedal controller. In one embodiment, the operator compartment 105 does not have a foot pedal controller.

[0150] Figure 3 and Figure 4 It shows Figure 1 and Figure 2 A side view of an embodiment of the forklift 100 shown. (See reference...) Figure 3 and Figure 4The operator compartment floor 150 is located at a height of 195 above ground level 190. Ground level 190 is considered to be the surface where the lift is located, but can also be a ramp or other raised supporting surface, as well as a warehouse floor, road, or the like. The passageways and alternative exits of operator compartment 105, as well as the operator compartment floor height 195, comply with SAE J185: Recommended Practice Standard for Access Systems for Off-Road Machinery.

[0151] The operator compartment floor 150 may be approximately 10%–30% lower than the floor of a conventionally available lift vehicle with similar lifting capacity. In some embodiments, the floor height 195 may be the height of a portion of the operator compartment floor 150, the height of a large portion of the operator compartment floor 150, or the average height of the operator compartment floor 150. In some embodiments, the floor height 195 may additionally or alternatively be the lowest point on the operator compartment floor 150.

[0152] In the various figures, the base plate height 195 may additionally or alternatively be defined relative to other features of the lift vehicles 100, 300, 500, 600, 700, 800, and 900 (generally lift vehicle 100). For example, refer to Figure 10C (For convenience of increasing the height line), the lift vehicle 100 (300) has drive wheels, such as front wheels 192 having a drive wheel height 198 and drive wheel radii 194 defining a drive wheel radius height 196. The drive wheel radius height 196 and the floor height 195 also define a floor radius height difference 197. Similarly, the lift vehicle 100 (300) has steering wheels, such as rear wheels 191 having a steering wheel height 203 and a steering wheel radius 199 defining a steering wheel radius height 201. Other useful vehicle features may include a bottom 207, which may be the bottom of the chassis 130 or the bottom of a component attached to the bottom of the chassis 130. The bottom 207 may define a ground clearance height 205.

[0153] In some embodiments, the top surface of the operator compartment floor 150 may be 20 inches (or about 51 cm) or closer to the ground or surface supporting the forklift 100. Generally, the height 195 of the operator compartment floor 150 from the ground 190 is between about 10 and 30 inches (or about 25-76 cm), such as between about 15 and 25 inches (or about 38-64 cm), between about 17 and 21 inches (or about 43-54 cm), between about 18 and 20 inches (or about 45-51 cm), or about 19 inches (or about 48 cm).

[0154] In some embodiments, the height 195 of the operator compartment floor 150 is less than or equal to the drive wheel height 198. The height 195 of the operator compartment floor 150 may be less than or equal to 95% of the drive wheel height 198, less than or equal to 90% of the drive wheel height 198, less than or equal to 85% of the drive wheel height 198, less than or equal to 80% of the drive wheel height 198, or less than or equal to 75% of the drive wheel height 198. In some embodiments, the height 195 of the operator compartment floor 150 is between the drive wheel height 198 and the drive wheel radius height 196. In some embodiments, the height 195 of the operator compartment floor 150 is between the drive wheel height 198 and the steering wheel radius height 201.

[0155] As used herein, the term "low floor" refers to an operator compartment floor with a height above the ground that can be comfortably reached by typically (e.g., "95%", meaning all except for 5% of the population outliers in height and build) male or female vehicle operators using only a single vertical stepping motion. That is, there may be no steps between the operator compartment floor 150 and the ground 190. While operators may not need to use grab bars to comfortably enter or exit operator compartment 105, grab bars (not shown) may still be located on vehicle 100, such as attached to the front strut 188 of chassis 130, to enhance operator training in entering and exiting vehicle 100. In one embodiment, the height 195 above the ground 190 does not require 95% of male or female operators to raise (or extend) their legs at approximately 90 degrees above the hips while standing, with their knees bent (or folded) no more than approximately 90 degrees.

[0156] An operator can enter the lift carriage 100, which has a low floor 150, by a single step and then pivot to sit in the operator seat 140. The operator, seated in the seat 140 (preferably rotatable), can rotate the seat about a vertical axis 145 to see the front, sides, and rear of the lift carriage 100 with minimal torsional or neck or back strain. Embodiments of the operator seat 140 can be designed to slide forward, sideways, backward, or a combination of these directions, independently of or simultaneously with rotation. Thus, for example, the operator's seat can slide backward and laterally so that the operator's legs and feet can be laterally raised above the floor 150 during rotation, while remaining within the operator compartment 105.

[0157] In addition to or in place of a rotating and / or sliding mechanism, the operator seat 140 may include a mechanism for vertically adjusting the seat. For example, an embodiment of the operator seat 140 may be designed to move up and down from an initial height between about 0.5 and 10 inches (or about 1-26 cm), such as between about 1 and 6 inches (or about 2-16 cm), between about 2 and 5 inches (or about 5-13 cm), at least about 2 inches (5 cm), not exceeding about 5 inches (13 cm), or about 4 inches (10 cm).

[0158] Compared to commonly available lift platform floors, the low floor 150 provides sufficient legroom for the operator's legs to comfortably rotate about the vertical axis 145 while maintaining their height above the floor when the operator is seated in the operator seat 140. For lifts with seats 140 that can slide backward or both backward and laterally, the operator's legs can be held within the operator compartment 105 as the seat 140 rotates beyond a predetermined angular displacement (e.g., greater than 10 degrees). In one embodiment, a certain amount of unobstructed legroom exists on the floor 150 of the operator compartment 105 to allow the operator of the lift 100 to swing their legs laterally while keeping their feet above the floor 150.

[0159] The chassis compartment area can be located between the one or more drive wheels and counterweight 112 (or between drive axle 324 and counterweight 112) and between the left and right sides of chassis 130. In some embodiments, the top area of ​​operator compartment floor 150 is greater than or equal to 95% of the chassis compartment top area, greater than or equal to 90% of the chassis compartment top area, greater than or equal to 85% of the chassis compartment top area, greater than or equal to 80% of the chassis compartment top area, greater than or equal to 75% of the chassis compartment top area, and greater than or equal to 60% of the chassis compartment top area. As used herein, the chassis compartment top area is the area on the top side of the chassis compartment.

[0160] Figure 32 It is similar to Figure 3The top view of the lifting vehicle 100 disclosed herein, according to one embodiment of the lifting vehicle 100, compares the conventional floor surface area 161 of a conventional lifting vehicle (where the conventional foot pedal controller is located) with the total floor surface area 163 of the operator compartment floor 150, wherein the total floor surface area 163 is equal to the conventional floor surface area 161 plus an additional floor surface area 167 (including the area below and to the sides of the operator seat 140). The resulting floor surface area 167 may be three times the conventional floor surface area 161. In some embodiments, the total floor surface area 163 may be four times the conventional floor surface area 161. In some embodiments, the total floor surface area 163 may be greater than or equal to three times the conventional floor surface area 161.

[0161] The lifting vehicle 100 includes multiple wheels, such as two rear wheels 191 and two front wheels 192. Wheels 191 and 192 are directly or indirectly attached to the chassis 130 of the vehicle 100 and configured to roll to steerably move the vehicle 100 forward and backward. For example, the rear wheels 191 may be attached to a steering axle 189, which is attached to a counterweight 112, which is attached to the chassis 130, and the front wheels 192 may be attached to a drive axle 324. Figure 10B The drive axle is attached to the chassis 130. All or a subset of the multiple wheels can be steered by the operator.

[0162] like Figure 1-4 As shown, the lifting vehicle 100 generally has two pairs of wheels. The two wheels 191 and 192 of the lifting vehicle 100 can be independently replaced with a single wheel to form a lifting vehicle with three wheels. For example, Figure 2 The two rear wheels 191 shown can be replaced by a single rear wheel. Additional front or rear wheels can be independently added to the lift vehicle 100 to form a vehicle with more than four wheels. In one embodiment, the lift vehicle 100 has a plurality of wheels, including at least one left wheel and at least one right wheel. In another embodiment, the lift vehicle 100 has a plurality of wheels, including two front wheels and one rear wheel. All or a subset of the wheels can be solid, or all or a subset of the wheels can be pneumatic, or they can comprise a mixture of solid and pneumatic wheels.

[0163] Figure 5 yes Figure 1-4 A top view of the lifting vehicle 100 shown. Lifting vehicle chassis 130 ( Figure 5 (Not shown in the image) includes a portion located in front of or in front of the operator seat 140 and a portion located behind or behind the seat 140. Plane 200 may include the vertical axis 145 of the seat 140. Figure 5(Not shown in the diagram), extending from the vertical axis 145 and perpendicular to the right and left sides of the vehicle 100. Plane 200 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 125 and essentially divides the chassis 130 into two parts. The area of ​​the vehicle 100 generally located in front of plane 200 and behind forks 165 is referred to herein as the front portion 210, as shown in the diagram. Figure 5 As shown. Similarly, the area of ​​vehicle 100 generally behind plane 200 is referred to in this document as rear 220.

[0164] The front portion 210 of vehicle 100 generally includes components of a lifting assembly, as well as steering mechanisms and front wheels. The rear portion 220 may include at least one counterweight 112 and one or more rear wheels 191. The operator compartment 105, operator compartment floor 150, over-the-top protection, and components of the power source are generally located in both the front portion 210 and the rear portion 220, such as within the chassis compartment of both the straddle or overlapping portions 210 and 220.

[0165] Figure 6 , Figure 7A , Figure 7B , Figure 8 and Figure 9 An embodiment of a lifting vehicle 300 with a low floor 350, chassis 330, counterweight 312, rear compartment 313, and without a steering column and steering wheel is shown. The device for steering the vehicle 300 is a manually operated control device integrated into the operator's seat 340, and this device is referred to herein as a "seat-side steering device". The seat 340 may include a steering controller, such as by integrating a manually operated operator controller into the seat 340. This integrated steering controller may be located on one or both armrests of the seat. The seat 340 can preferably rotate about a vertical axis 345.

[0166] Seat 340 is shown attached to vehicle 300 via seat bracket 341, which extends from chassis 330 in the rear 220 of the chassis. Figure 5 Optionally, seat 340 can be attached to vehicle 300 via a bracket (such as a column parallel to or coincident with the vertical axis of rotation 345) extending from base plate 350. Vehicle 300 also includes over-the-top guard 370, two rear wheels 391 and two front wheels 392, operator compartment 305, lifting assembly 360 with forks 365, mast 310 and lifting cylinder 315. Figure 11 Unless otherwise specifically indicated, embodiments of vehicle 300 may include some or all of the various components and variations thereof described above with respect to vehicle 100, such as the optional recess in the over-the-top guard 370.

[0167] like Figure 7A and Figure 7BAs shown in detail, the vehicle 300 has a steering knob 331 integrated into the armrest of the operator seat 340 and a foot pedal 355 extending from and adjacent to the operator compartment floor 350. In one embodiment, the operator can control the speed of the vehicle using a foot pedal controller and operate the vehicle using seat-side steering. Exemplary controllers used as seat-side steering devices may include a steering knob for steering the vehicle and a finger controller for actuating the lifting assembly. The controller for actuating the lifting assembly may be integrally or partially integrated into the operator seat, such as into the armrest, or may include a foot pedal controller in addition to or in place of a manual controller.

[0168] The chassis 330 may have sides and a bottom configured to define a chassis compartment within the sides and above the bottom. The vehicle 300 includes an operator compartment 305 having a low operator compartment floor 350. The low floor 350 may be formed from a plate fastened to the chassis 330, such as by welding or via screws, bolts, and the like. The low floor 350 may be formed wholly or partially from a plate. In one embodiment, the operator compartment 305 may be defined and fixed to the chassis 330 at its bottom by a plate, wherein the plate forms the floor 350. Such a plate may form a cover over the chassis compartment located below the seat 340, on which the operator's feet can rest when seated. In addition to forming a cover for the chassis compartment, the plate may also provide structural strength to the chassis 330, such as resistance to chassis deflection.

[0169] The operator compartment floor 350 may be substantially flat in one or more directions, such as from side to side, with reference to an operator seated in a seat 340 having a vertical axis 345 and looking directly ahead along the longitudinal axis 325. As used herein, the term "substantially" is used as a broad term to mean at least about 75%, such as about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, about 99%, or 100% of an object or feature. Thus, a floor 350 substantially flat from side to side means that at least about 75% is flat in the left-right direction when the operator is looking forward from the seat 340, and may be completely flat. In some embodiments, the substantially flat floor area of ​​the operator compartment floor 350 is greater than or equal to 50% of the chassis compartment area, greater than or equal to 60% of the chassis compartment area, or greater than or equal to 70% of the chassis compartment area.

[0170] In one embodiment, the plate may be substantially flat from side to side, but the base plate 350 may have portions that are inclined in one or more directions. For example, a portion of the base plate 350 directly below the operator's seat 340 may be substantially flat, but a portion of the base plate located in front of the seat 340 and behind the fork 360 may be inclined upward toward the fork 360 and may accommodate a foot pedal controller such as a foot pedal 355. In one embodiment, the base plate 350 extends substantially flat from the front cover near the lift truck to the rear base plate edge located behind the front edge of the seat 340.

[0171] The implementation of the lift vehicle may include easily accessible compartments to allow easy access to specific components. Optionally, such easily accessible compartments may be included as part of the chassis or as part of the counterweight. (See reference...) Figure 7A and Figure 7B The compartment 313 may be located at the rear of the vehicle 300, above the counterweight 312 and behind the seat 340. The compartment 313 may include a cover formed by a plate 311, which can be easily opened by the operator (e.g., Figure 7B Therefore, it can also be an operator-accessible compartment. For example, the cover formed by plate 311 can be fixed in place by friction in the cover hinge, can have a snap-fit ​​fixation, or other suitable cover that can be opened by the operator without the use of tools.

[0172] In one embodiment, vehicle 300 may have an operator-accessible compartment 313 containing at least one operator-maintainable component 314. The operator-maintainable component may include power electronics such as one or more motor controllers, fuses, VSMs, contactors, or other suitable operator-maintainable components. The operator-accessible compartment 313 may be integrated into and / or above the counterweight 312 of vehicle 300, such as via a plate attached to the top of the counterweight 312, which, for chassis compartment 313, forms a cover using a plate 311. However, the operator-maintainable component may be located in other locations within the vehicle, such as, for example, under seat 340.

[0173] Because compartment 313 can be located behind seat 340, the canopy made of panel 311 of compartment 313 may potentially obstruct the operator's view behind vehicle 300. Therefore, it may be useful to design compartment 313 and panel 311 so that they do not adversely affect the operator's view. In one embodiment, panel 311 covering compartment 313 is angled downwards toward the rear of lifting vehicle 300, such as... Figure 7A and Figure 7BAs shown. The downward slope creates a clear line of sight above the plate 311 for the operator when seated in the operator seat 340, and allows the operator to see low objects immediately behind the lift 300.

[0174] exist Figure 31 This advantage in visibility is illustrated by comparing the conventional visibility 317 of an older lift truck with a visibility 319 achievable according to one embodiment of lift trucks 100, 300, 500, 600, and 700 disclosed herein. (Reference) Figure 31 The eye position or eye height 321 of an operator of average male height seated in operator seat 340 is approximately 812.8 mm above the cushion of operator seat 340. In conventional lifts, an operator with a line of sight 317 would not be able to see objects such as a cube block 323 within a rear distance 329 of 892 mm from the lift, the block height 327 of which (such as the height of a short pallet) is 165 mm. However, in the embodiments of lifts 100, 300, 500, 600, 700, and 800 disclosed herein, an operator with an improved line of sight 319 will be able to see block 323 within 892 mm behind the lift. Furthermore, an operator with an improved line of sight 319 will be able to see block 323 within a rear distance 333 of 388 mm behind the lift. This line of sight advantage provides the operator with a field of vision that is 10 degrees or better 337 compared to the angles allowed by conventional lifts. This visual advantage also translates to the operator being able to see objects 0.6 meters closer to the rear of the vehicle, effectively reducing the length of the rear blind spot by about 50%.

[0175] Therefore, in some embodiments, the lift 300 provides an unobstructed direct line of sight 319 from an operator of average male height seated in the operator seat 340 to the front top of an object less than or equal to 165 mm in height within 850 mm behind the lift 300. The lift 300 can provide an unobstructed direct line of sight 319 from an operator of average male height seated in the operator seat 340 to the front top of an object less than or equal to 165 mm in height within 800 mm behind the lift 300. The lift 300 can provide an unobstructed direct line of sight 319 from an operator of average male height seated in the operator seat 340 to the front top of an object less than or equal to 165 mm in height within 700 mm behind the lift 300. The lift 300 can provide an unobstructed direct line of sight 319 from an operator of average male height seated in the operator seat 340 to the front top of an object less than or equal to 165 mm in height within 600 mm behind the lift 300. The lift 300 provides an unobstructed direct line of sight 319 from an operator of average male height seated in the operator's seat 340 to the front top of objects less than or equal to 165 mm in height within 500 mm behind the lift 300. The lift 300 provides an unobstructed direct line of sight 319 from an operator of average male height seated in the operator's seat 340 to the front top of objects less than or equal to 165 mm in height within 400 mm behind the lift 300. The lift 300 provides an unobstructed direct line of sight 319 from an operator of average male height seated in the operator's seat 340 to the front top of objects less than or equal to 165 mm in height within 388 mm behind the lift 300.

[0176] Figure 10A , Figure 10B , Figure 10C and Figure 10D An embodiment of a lift vehicle 300 with a manually operated controller integrated into the operator seat 340 is shown. This controller does not include pedals or foot pedals, and there is no steering wheel or steering column. For clarity, the lift bracket and mast components have been removed from these figures. In the illustrated embodiment, the seat 340 integrates the manually operated operator controllers into its armrests. These manually operated controllers include a steering knob 331 integrated into one armrest and a set of finger controllers 332 integrated into a second armrest. In one embodiment, the manually operated controller includes only one of the knob 331 and the finger controllers 332. The finger controllers 332 can, for example, actuate the lift bracket and control the speed of the vehicle 300. The steering knob 331 can steer the vehicle.

[0177] refer to Figure 10A and Figure 10BEmbodiments of the lift carriage 300 may include a front cover 353. The cover 353 may be made of metal or plastic, or a combination thereof. The cover 353 may be partially or completely transparent to allow the operator to observe the lift carriage from seat 340. In one embodiment, the cover 353 is made of plexiglass. The cover 353 may include shelves or other devices for storage inside the operator compartment 305, such as cup holders or brackets for computerized devices, such as GPS devices or inventory storage devices.

[0178] refer to Figure 10D It provides a close-up view showing more details. An embodiment of the lift 300 may include a seat 340 with a finger controller 332 located under the armrest, which also has a wrist strap.

[0179] Figure 11 This is a front view of the 300-type aerial work platform. Figure 11 In the embodiment of the lift vehicle 300 shown, it has a substantially flat and low floor 350, providing the operator with good visibility of the front of the vehicle because the components in the front of the vehicle 300 are lower than those in a conventionally available lift vehicle. For example, the low floor 350 allows components of the lifting assembly located behind the fork 360 and in front of and below the seat 340 (which may include a hydraulic system for raising and lowering the forks 365) to be positioned within the chassis 330 below the height of components of the lifting assembly in a conventionally available vehicle. In one embodiment, the cover 353 is transparent.

[0180] Having a low floor also offers additional advantages, such as providing a lift truck 300 with a lower center of gravity than conventionally available vehicles, because many of the heavy components of the truck 300 are positioned closer to the ground and / or horizontally rather than vertically. The lift truck 300 can provide a center of gravity located at the height of the center of gravity, which is lower than or equal to the drive wheel height 198. The lift truck 300 can provide a center of gravity located at the height of the center of gravity, which is lower than or equal to the floor height 195. The lift truck 300 can provide a center of gravity located at the height of the center of gravity, which is lower than or equal to the steering wheel height 203. The lift truck 300 can provide a center of gravity located at the height of the center of gravity, which is lower than or equal to the drive wheel radius height 196. The lift truck 300 can provide a center of gravity located at the height of the center of gravity, which is lower than or equal to the steering wheel radius height 201.

[0181] Figure 12This is a top view of vehicle 300, showing the wide and unobstructed low floor 350 of operator compartment 305. The seat-side steering controller includes a finger controller 332 and a steering knob 331, integrated into the armrest of seat 340. Therefore, a steering wheel or steering column is not required in this embodiment. The floor 350 of operator compartment 305 can extend substantially flat from one side to the other across approximately the entire width of the lift vehicle 300. When the operator is seated, there are no obstructions on the floor 350 that would hinder the operator's feet and legs when rotating seat 340, for example, when driving or leaving vehicle 300. In one embodiment, lift vehicle 300 includes a steering wheel that can be mounted to a steering column that does not extend from the floor 350. For example, the steering column can be attached to or integrated into seat 340, and therefore will not hinder the movement of the operator's legs or feet.

[0182] In some embodiments, the vehicle 300 has seat-side steering, such as a steering knob 331 and / or a finger controller 332, and one or more foot pedal controllers in the operator compartment 305 near the floor 350 for driver operation. Exemplary foot pedal controllers include pedals. In one embodiment, the lifting vehicle 300 includes an operator seat 340 with a bottom having a front edge, a left edge, a right edge, and a rear edge, and a floor 350 extending substantially flatly front-back from a front floor edge near the front of the forklift vehicle 300 to a rear floor edge behind the front edge of the bottom of the seat 340.

[0183] Figure 13 and Figure 14 An embodiment of a lift vehicle 500 with an exemplary conventional vehicle chassis 530 is shown, which can be used for lift vehicles with seat-side steering and a lithium-ion battery 520 as an energy source. Figure 13 The chassis 530 with operator compartment 505 removed is shown to more clearly show the chassis compartment beneath the floor plate of operator compartment 505. (Refer to...) Figure 13 The chassis compartment is formed by chassis sides 501 and a bottom (not shown) to create a compartment located within the sides and above the bottom of the chassis 530. The chassis compartment may contain, for example, an energy source including a lithium-ion battery 520 and an electric motor. A hydraulic system 580 may also be included in the chassis compartment. Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, in addition to the area below and behind the operator's seat, the chassis compartment can extend above the front wheels. Figure 14 For example, it shows (in whole or in part) a counterweight 512 and additional vehicle components 514 attached to the rear of seat 540 or to a chassis compartment on the rear side of vehicle 500.

[0184] Figure 14An exploded view of vehicle 500 is shown, which shows the operator compartment 505 raised above the lithium-ion battery 520, which is shown raised above the chassis 530 and other components. Figure 14 The chassis 530 is shown, which has a bottom 502 and sides 501 of chassis compartment, plate 511 (which may be inclined or horizontal), counterweight 512 and hydraulic system 580.

[0185] The counterweight 512 may be made of one or more components, each having one or more densities, such as a two-piece counterweight comprising multiple SAE J431 gray cast iron casting grades. Vehicle 500 also includes an over-the-top guard 570, a lifting component 560 with forks 365, a mast 510, and manual operating controllers 531 and 532 integrated into the seat 540. Unless otherwise specifically indicated, embodiments of vehicle 500 may include some or all of the various components and variations thereof described above for vehicles 100 and 300, such as optional recesses in the over-the-top guard 570.

[0186] Figure 15A and Figure 15B This is a top view of an embodiment of vehicle 500, in which the operator compartment 505 is removed, revealing the battery pack and chassis compartment. Figure 15A and Figure 15B The lithium-ion battery 520 and hydraulic system 580 are shown in more detail. The smaller lithium-ion battery 520 provides a low-profile energy source compared to lead-acid batteries. The lift vehicle 500 can be designed to include the low-profile lithium-ion battery 520, which is placed in a chassis compartment below the operator's seat 540, with a counterweight 512 positioned at the rear of the vehicle 500 and behind the operator's seat 540. Using the smaller lithium-ion battery 520 as an energy source instead of a larger, bulkier lead-acid battery allows for a smaller chassis compartment containing the energy source, thus allowing for a lower operator's compartment floor 550 while maintaining a similar amount of electrical energy as is often stored in commonly available lift vehicles using lead-acid batteries.

[0187] The lithium-ion battery pack 520 is displayed in a chassis compartment below the seat 540, behind (rear) most of the hydraulic system 580 and in front (front) of the counterweight 512 and vehicle components 514. In some embodiments of the lifting vehicle disclosed herein, with Figure 13-1 Compared to the embodiment shown in 5, the arrangement of the components constituting the hydraulic system 580 and the energy source can vary in the vertical and / or horizontal directions.

[0188] Hydraulic system 580 includes a hydraulic motor 581, a hydraulic tank 582, a hydraulic pump 583, at least one hydraulic valve 584, and at least one hydraulic cylinder 585, such as a tilting cylinder. The hydraulic pump 583 is connected to the hydraulic tank 582 such that fluid in the tank 582 can be pressurized and released respectively when the pressure in the hydraulic pump 583 increases and decreases. The connection can be direct or indirect. For example, the hydraulic pump 583 can be directly connected to the hydraulic tank 582 via plastic, metal, or other suitable hoses. In one embodiment, the hydraulic pump 583 is directly connected to the hydraulic tank 582 without the need for hoses. In one embodiment, the hydraulic motor 581 includes a hydraulic lifting cylinder.

[0189] Hydraulic pump 583 and hydraulic motor 581 may be located in a chassis compartment. Hydraulic tank 582 is fluidly connected to hydraulic pump 583. Hydraulic tank 582 may be located in the same chassis compartment as pump 583 and / or motor 581, or hydraulic tank 582 may be located in a different chassis compartment.

[0190] In one embodiment, the hydraulic system 580 includes a hydraulic valve 584 that controls the function of the mast, and different hydraulic valves 584 that control the tilting function of the mast 510. In one embodiment, the drive axle 524 is located at the front of the lift vehicle 500 and attached to the front side of the chassis 530. In one embodiment, the drive axle 524 may form part of a drivetrain and may include one or more electric motors 525. In one embodiment, one or more electric motors 525 may be located in the drive axle 524. The drive axle may be attached to the mast 510.

[0191] Using a lithium-ion battery 520, a wheel steering electric motor and a hydraulic system 580 constitute the power unit for the lift vehicle 500. This power unit drives at least some of the wheels to move the lift vehicle 500 and also raises the mast 510 to lift and lower loads. Different implementations, such as those described below, have different power units based on different energy sources instead of the lithium-ion battery 520; however, the lithium-ion battery 520 is currently the preferred energy source because it provides sufficient energy in a small volume for use of the lift vehicle during the completion of work between recharges. This allows for a reduction in the size of the chassis compartment and thus a lower floor of the operator compartment 505, resulting in ergonomic advantages for the operator. The lithium-ion battery 520 may include, for example, multiple lithium batteries connected together to achieve the desired voltage and current for the lift vehicle 500 and / or the battery management system and battery power delivery components. Lithium-based batteries may include lithium-ion batteries as well as other batteries whose chemical composition includes lithium. The lithium-ion battery 520 may include one or more of the following chemical components: lithium titanate, lithium-iron phosphate, lithium-nickel manganese cobalt oxide, and lithium-manganese oxide. Other lithium-ion battery chemistry not belonging to the lithium-ion category includes lithium-sulfur, lithium-air, and lithium-silicon. It is understandable that if a particular lithium-based battery has characteristics suitable for a lift vehicle application, other types of lithium-based batteries can be used instead of lithium-ion batteries 520.

[0192] Figure 16 and Figure 17 An embodiment of a lift vehicle 600 with a chassis 630, seat-side steering, and a lead-acid battery as its power source is shown. Vehicle 600 also includes an over-the-top guard 670, a lift chassis 660 with forks 665, a mast 610, and manual operating controllers 631 and 632 integrated into the seat 640. The seat 640 is preferably rotatable about a vertical axis 645. Unless otherwise specifically indicated, embodiments of vehicle 600 may include some or all of the various components and variations thereof described above for vehicles 100, 300, and 500, such as optional recesses in the over-the-top guard 670. See also Figure 16 , and in Figure 13-1 Compared to the low-profile and smaller lithium-ion battery pack 520 of the vehicle 500 shown in Figure 5, the floor 650 of the operator compartment 605 is not a low floor to accommodate the larger size of the currently available lead-acid battery pack 620 under the operator seat 640.

[0193] Figure 17 An exploded view of vehicle 600 is shown, illustrating an operator compartment 605 raised above a lead-acid battery pack 620, which is shown raised above a chassis 630. Figure 16 and Figure 17 In the illustrated embodiment, the floor 650 of the operator compartment 605 has neither a steering column nor a steering wheel. Figure 17 A chassis 630 is shown, having a bottom 602 and sides 601 of a chassis compartment. A hydraulic system 680 may be fully or partially mounted within the chassis compartment.

[0194] An embodiment of vehicle 600 may include a counterweight 612, which may be made of one or more components, each having one or more densities, such as a two-piece counterweight comprising multiple SAE J431 gray cast iron casting grades. The counterweight 612 may be located behind the operator's seat 640.

[0195] Figure 18A and Figure 18B This is a top view of an embodiment of vehicle 600, in which the operator compartment 605 has been removed, revealing the battery pack and chassis compartment. Figure 18A and Figure 18B The lead-acid battery pack 620 and hydraulic system 680 are shown in more detail. The lead-acid battery pack 620 is shown in a chassis compartment below seat 640, behind (rear) most of the hydraulic system 680, and in front (front) of counterweight 612 and vehicle component 614. Unless otherwise specifically indicated, the energy source, hydraulic system, and drive mechanism of embodiments of vehicle 600 may include some or all of the various components and variations thereof as described above for vehicles 100, 300, and 500.

[0196] Hydraulic system 680 includes a hydraulic motor 681, a hydraulic tank 682, a hydraulic pump 683, at least one hydraulic valve 684, and at least one hydraulic cylinder 685. The function and structure of hydraulic system 680 and its components may be related to hydraulic system 580 as described above. In one embodiment, drive axle 624 is located at the front of lift vehicle 600 and attached to the front side of chassis 630. In one embodiment, drive axle 624 may form part of a drivetrain and may include one or more electric motors 625.

[0197] Figure 19 and Figure 20 An embodiment of a lift vehicle 700 is shown, having a chassis 730, seat-side steering, and using a hydrogen fuel cell 720 as part of its energy source. The associated power unit may include an electric motor, power electronics, a hydrogen delivery system, and electrical connectors. Vehicle 700 also includes an over-the-top guard 770, a lifting assembly 760 with forks 765, a mast 710, and manual operating controllers 731 and 732 integrated into the seat 740. Unless otherwise specifically indicated, embodiments of vehicle 700 may include some or all of the various components and variations thereof described above for vehicles 100, 300, 500, and 600, such as an optional recess in the over-the-top guard 770. See also Figure 19 ,and Figure 13-1Compared to the lower profile and smaller lithium-ion battery pack 520 shown in vehicle 500, the floor 750 of the operator compartment 705 is not a low floor and accommodates a larger hydrogen fuel cell component below the operator seat 740.

[0198] Figure 20 An exploded view of vehicle 700 is shown, illustrating an operator compartment 705 raised above an energy source (fuel cell powertrain or fuel cell power unit) 720, which is shown raised above a chassis 730. In some embodiments, the fuel cell powertrain 720 includes a hydrogen fuel cell 721, a cooling system 723, and a fuel cell engine or motor 727. Figure 19 and Figure 20 In the embodiment shown, the floor 750 of the operator compartment 705 has neither a steering column nor a steering wheel. Figure 20 A chassis 730 is shown, having a bottom 702 and sides 701 of a chassis compartment. A hydraulic system 780 can be fully or partially fitted within the chassis compartment.

[0199] An embodiment of vehicle 700 may include a counterweight 712, which may be made of one or more components, each having one or more densities, such as a two-piece counterweight comprising multiple SAE J431 gray cast iron casting grades. The counterweight 712 may be located behind the operator's seat 740 and below the hydrogen storage tank for the hydrogen fuel cell 721. Figure 20 The rear chassis compartment of the vehicle 700 is also located behind the operator's seat 740, and is covered by a panel 711, with the hydrogen storage tank located above the panel 711.

[0200] Figure 21A and Figure 21B This is a top view of an embodiment of vehicle 700, in which the operator compartment 705 has been removed, showing a hydrogen-based energy source 720 (such as a hydrogen fuel cell power system or hydrogen fuel cell power unit), a hydrogen storage tank 729, and a chassis compartment. Figure 21A and Figure 21B The energy source 720 and hydraulic system 780 are shown in more detail. Most of the hydrogen fuel cell power unit 720 is shown in a chassis compartment below the seat 740, behind (rear) the majority of the hydraulic system 780, and in front (front) of the counterweight 712 and vehicle components 714. Unless otherwise specifically indicated, the energy source, hydraulic system, and drive mechanism of embodiments of vehicle 700 may include some or all of the various components and variations thereof as described above for vehicles 100, 300, 500, and 600.

[0201] Hydraulic system 780 includes a hydraulic motor 781, a hydraulic tank 782, a hydraulic pump 783, at least one hydraulic valve 784, and at least one hydraulic cylinder 785. The function and configuration of hydraulic system 780 and its components can be related to hydraulic system 580 as described above. In one embodiment, drive axle 724 is located at the front of lift vehicle 700 and attached to the front side of chassis 730. In one embodiment, drive axle 724 may form part of a drivetrain and may include one or more electric motors 725. Hydrogen fuel cell power unit 720 may directly supply energy to hydraulic motor 781 or provide energy to charge battery 731, which can be regulated to supply energy to hydraulic motor 781.

[0202] Figure 22 and Figure 23 An embodiment of a lift vehicle 800 with a chassis 830, seat-side steering, and an internal combustion engine as its power source is shown. Vehicle 800 also includes an over-the-top guard 870, a lift chassis 860 with forks 865, a mast 810, and manual operating controllers 831 and 832 integrated into the seat 840. Unless otherwise specifically indicated, embodiments of vehicle 800 may include some or all of the various components and variations thereof described above for vehicles 100, 300, 500, 600, and 700, such as the optional recess in the over-the-top guard 870. See also Figure 22 ,and Figure 13-1 Compared to the lower profile and smaller lithium-ion battery shown in vehicle 500, the floor 850 of operator compartment 805 is not a low floor to accommodate a larger internal combustion engine under operator seat 840.

[0203] Figure 23 An exploded view of vehicle 800 is shown, illustrating an operator compartment 805 raised above an internal combustion engine power source (power unit or drivetrain) 820, which is shown raised above the chassis 830. The drivetrain 820 may include a cooling system 823, an internal combustion engine 827, and a transmission 833. Figure 22 and Figure 23 In the embodiment shown, the base plate 850 of the operator compartment 805 does not have a foot pedal controller. Figure 23 A chassis 830 with a bottom 802 and sides 801 having a chassis compartment is shown, along with a hydraulic system 880. The hydraulic system 880 can be fully or partially integrated into the chassis compartment.

[0204] An embodiment of vehicle 800 may include a counterweight 812, which may be made of one or more components, each having one or more densities, such as a two-piece counterweight comprising multiple SAE J431 gray cast iron casting grades. The counterweight 812 may be placed in a compartment behind the operator's seat 840. Figure 23The vehicle 800 is shown to have a rear chassis compartment, which is also located behind the operator's seat 840. This compartment is covered by a panel 811, with the portion of the internal combustion engine located above the panel 811.

[0205] Figure 24A and Figure 24B This is a top view of an embodiment of vehicle 800, in which the operator compartment 805 has been removed, showing the internal combustion-based energy source 820 and the chassis compartment. Figure 24A and Figure 24B The energy source 820 and hydraulic system 880 are shown in more detail; however, the illustration of the energy source obscures the view of many hydraulic system components. Most of the internal combustion-based energy source 820 is shown in the chassis compartment below the seat 840, behind (rear) the majority of the hydraulic system 880 and in front (front) of the counterweight 812. Unless otherwise specifically indicated, the energy source, hydraulic system, and drive mechanism of embodiments of vehicle 800 may include some or all of the various components and variations thereof as described above for vehicles 100, 300, 500, 600, and 700.

[0206] Hydraulic system 880 includes a hydraulic motor (not shown), a hydraulic tank 882, a hydraulic pump (not shown), at least one hydraulic valve 884, and at least one hydraulic cylinder 885. The function and configuration of hydraulic system 880 and its components can be related to hydraulic system 780 as described above. In one embodiment, drive axle 824 is located at the front of lift vehicle 800 and attached to the front side of chassis 830.

[0207] The lifting vehicles disclosed herein may include a vehicle chassis shared across multiple embodiments. For example, chassis 130, 330, 530, 630, 730, and 830 may all have the same design, i.e., a shared chassis. The shared chassis has chassis cavities or compartments, as described above and in detail above. The advantage of a shared chassis is that lifting vehicle manufacturers can use the same chassis when manufacturing lifting vehicles with different floor heights, energy sources, and / or operator compartments. For example, a shared chassis can be used in lifting vehicles that include low floor heights, as well as in vehicles with floor heights that are frequently usable. Similarly, a shared chassis can be used in lifting vehicles with low-profile batteries and in vehicles using hydrogen fuel cell-based energy sources.

[0208] Figures 25-30 illustrate other aspects of the modular design of the lifting vehicle and its chassis in the embodiments described herein. The various designs of the chassis and connected components are referred to herein as “forming factors.” Parameters considered in forming factors include size, specifications, materials used, and the shape of components used in the lifting vehicle. The embodiments of the lifting vehicles shown in Figures 25-30 may include various components that can be incorporated into different embodiments of any lifting vehicle disclosed herein. Similarly, the components of the lifting vehicles described herein for the aforementioned vehicles 100, 300, 500, 600, 700, and 800 may be included in any of the lifting vehicle embodiments shown in Figures 25-30.

[0209] Figure 25A and Figure 25B Various shapes of the counterweight system 1000 are shown, which can be incorporated into the chassis of an embodiment of the lifting vehicle. The counterweight system 1000 can be made of more than one component, and different forming factors can be adapted to different shapes and / or arrangements of the lifting vehicle components. For example, from the cut-off rear left side of the lifting vehicle ( Figure 25A ) and from the right front side of the cut-off elevator ( Figure 25B The diagram shows different designs for counterweight systems 1000a and 1000b (collectively referred to as counterweight system 1000) located behind the operator's seat.

[0210] refer to Figure 25A and Figure 25B The counterweight system 1000 may include a structural (or under) counterweight 1012 that forms part of the rear of the chassis 1030 and may be shaped to accommodate various sizes of the rear wheels 1091. The structural counterweight 1012 is often very heavy and may be the heaviest part of the counterweight system 1000. The structural counterweight 1012 may be a single piece integrally constructed, integrated into the chassis 1030, or constructed separately therefrom, or the structural counterweight 1012 may be formed from multiple components (such as two components) connected to and / or connected to the chassis 1030, such as by one or more welds. The structural counterweight 1012 may be adapted to provide attachment points, shapes, or other connector reinforcements to support or accommodate other components of the counterweight system 1000.

[0211] The counterweight system 1000 may also include a counterweight plate 1014, which is located on top of and / or fitted within the structural counterweight 1012. The counterweight plate 1014 is often the second heaviest component of the counterweight system 1000. The counterweight plate 1014 may form a tray 1016 adapted to support vehicle components such as batteries, fuel tanks, operator-accessible components, or auxiliary counterweights.

[0212] The counterweight system 1000 may also include a suspended counterweight 1018, which can be adapted to be suspended on or above the counterweight plate 1014, or suspended on or above a vehicle component supported by the counterweight plate 1014. A lift vehicle with a hydrogen-based energy source may, for example, include a counterweight system 1000 with high edges to help protect the hydrogen tank located thereon. Similarly, a lift vehicle with a rear chassis compartment and a lithium-ion battery pack may include a counterweight system 1000 designed to have shelves or enclosures within it for an operator-accessible compartment.

[0213] The counterweight system 1000 may also include an upper counterweight 1022, which is adaptable to a rear strut attached to the chassis supporting the overhead guard. In some embodiments, the upper counterweight 1022 may function more as an adapter than a load-bearing component. The design of the upper counterweight 1022 may be coordinated with the design of the suspension counterweight 1018 to provide sufficient connection between the two components. The upper counterweight 1022 and / or the counterweight system 1000 as a whole may be designed, for example, to be tilted, to enhance the operator's line of sight to low objects near and placed behind the lift vehicle.

[0214] Any of these components of the counterweight system 1000 can be manufactured in multiple weights and / or sizes to fit and interchange with the modular system to accommodate different modular vehicle configurations utilizing the common chassis 1030 and to fine-tune the center of gravity relative to specific configurations and specific lifting vehicle components within such configurations.

[0215] Figure 26 and Figure 27 This is an illustration of an embodiment of a lift vehicle 900, which has a seat-side steering mechanism and a low operator compartment floor 950 without a foot pedal controller. The lift vehicle has... Figure 1-2 The different forming factors of the lifting vehicle shown in Figure 4. The lifting vehicle 900 has a chassis 930, seat-side steering, and a low floor 950. The vehicle 900 also includes an over-the-top guard 970, a lifting chassis 960 with forks 965, a mast 910, manual operating controllers 931 and 932 integrated into the seat 940, and a counterweight 912. The vehicle 900 has a lifting assembly including a tilting mechanism 973, which is incorporated into the over-the-top guard 970 and connected to the lifting assembly. The tilting mechanism 973 selectively tilts the lifting assembly including the forks 960. The lifting vehicle 900 has a single rear wheel 995, illustrating an embodiment of a three-wheeled lifting vehicle.

[0216] refer to Figure 26 and Figure 27The low floor 950 does not obstruct the operator's feet or legs when entering or leaving the vehicle or when seated in the seat 940. The operator seat 940 is directly attached to the operator compartment floor 950 and is rotatable about the vertical axis 945. The front cover 953 of the floor 950 separates the fixed operator compartment from the movable lifting assembly and provides operator protection.

[0217] The shape and material of the front cover 953 can vary. In one embodiment, the cover 953 is made of metal and its height is below the operator's seat 940. The cover 953 can be used to protect the operator's feet from exposure to any material on the lift bracket 960 that may fall into the operator's compartment 905. In one embodiment, the cover 953 is above the height of the seat 940.

[0218] Figure 28 This is an illustration of an embodiment of the lift vehicle 900, which has a seat-side steering, a low operator compartment floor, a short front cover 953, and multiple foot pedal controllers 955. Figure 28 The embodiment of the lift vehicle 900 shown includes: an over-the-top guard 970, a lift chassis 960 with forks 965, a mast 910, manual operation controllers 931 and 932 integrated into the seat 940, a counterweight 912, and a tilting rear plate 911. The vehicle 900 has an operator seat 940 not attached to the operator compartment floor 950. Multiple foot pedals 955 are shown.

[0219] Figure 29 and Figure 30 This is an illustration of an embodiment of the lift vehicle 900, which includes a steering wheel 935, a low operator compartment floor 950, a high front cover 953, and a single foot pedal 955. Figures 29-30 The embodiments of the lifting vehicle shown include different forming factors, and the lifting components are removed for clarity. Figures 29-30 The lift vehicle 900 shown includes an over-the-top guard 970, an operator compartment 905, four wheels, a chassis 930, a manual operation finger controller 932 integrated into the seat 940, and a counterweight 912. Figure 29 and Figure 30 The lift 900 shown illustrates two examples of operator-accessible storage compartments, but other different operator-accessible storage compartments may be available below seat 940 or elsewhere in an open space with a wide, flat floor.

[0220] refer to Figure 29The illustrated embodiment of vehicle 900 has a non-vertically adjustable operator seat 940. Below the seat 940 and above the floor 950, there is a front-open, operator-accessible storage compartment 990. A high front cover 953 is made of an upper horizontal metallized portion and a transparent lower portion, allowing the operator to see the lift bracket when the bracket is close to the ground.

[0221] Reference Figure 30 The embodiment of the vehicle 900 shown also has a non-vertically adjustable operator seat 940 and a high front cover 953 made of an upper horizontal metallized portion and a transparent lower portion. Below the seat 940 and above the floor 950, there is a front-open, operator-accessible storage compartment 992, and there are also open compartments extending to the sides of the seat for additional storage.

[0222] Additional examples of the advantageous lift vehicle elements described herein can be found in U.S. Design Patent Application No. 29 / 685,948, filed March 1, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference. The lift vehicle shown in U.S. Design Patent Application No. 29 / 685,948 includes an optional step between the ground and the operator's compartment floor, allowing operators accustomed to using steps, though not required to do so, to utilize the steps.

[0223] It is understandable that some aspects of the lift vehicle disclosed herein can also be used in end-rider vehicles, such as modular configuration, low floor, interchangeable parts and / or batteries and electric motors.

[0224] Summarize The terminology and descriptions used above are presented by way of illustration and example only and are not intended to be limiting. Those skilled in the art will recognize that many variations, enhancements, and modifications can be made to the concepts described herein without departing from the fundamental principles of the invention. For example, those skilled in the art will understand that the subject of any sentence or paragraph can be combined with the subject of some or all other sentences or paragraphs, unless such combinations are mutually exclusive. Therefore, the scope of the invention should be determined only by the appended claims, the claims set forth in the continuing patent application, and the equivalents of the foregoing claims.

Claims

1. A battery powered, counterbalanced sit-to-stand fork lift truck for use in an indoor warehouse environment, the battery powered, counterbalanced sit-to-stand fork lift truck comprising: a chassis having a front side, a rear side, a left side, and a right side; a plurality of wheels attached to the chassis, the plurality of wheels including one or more drive wheels, wherein the plurality of wheels are sized and positioned to provide the battery powered, counterbalanced sit-to-stand fork lift truck with a road course and maneuverability suitable for use in an indoor warehouse environment; a mast connected to the chassis proximate a front of the chassis; a fork assembly connected to the mast, the fork assembly configured to lift a detachable load; a counterweight attached to the rear side of the chassis; a chassis compartment between the one or more drive wheels and the counterweight and between the left side and the right side of the chassis; an operator compartment above the chassis compartment; an operator seat in the operator compartment; an overhead guard attached to the chassis and defining a top of the operator compartment an operator compartment floor defining a bottom surface of the operator compartment, wherein the operator compartment floor is between the left side and the right side of the chassis, wherein at least a portion of the operator compartment floor extends substantially completely between the left side of the chassis and the right side of the chassis, wherein the operator compartment floor extends below at least a portion of the operator seat, and wherein the operator compartment floor is at an operator compartment floor height above a floor of the indoor warehouse, and the operator compartment floor height is less than a height of at least one of the plurality of wheels; a battery in the chassis compartment; a motor in the chassis compartment and operably connected to the battery and the one or more drive wheels; and a hydraulic system in the chassis compartment, the hydraulic system operably connected to the battery, wherein the battery is a sole source of energy for both the motor and the hydraulic system, wherein the hydraulic system includes a hydraulic pump, a motor configured to operate the hydraulic pump, a hydraulic tank fluidly connected to the hydraulic pump, and a hydraulic valve.

2. The counterbalanced sit-down fork lift truck powered by a battery of claim 1 wherein, The battery powered, counterbalanced sit-to-stand fork lift truck employs multiple motors.

3. The counterbalanced sit-down fork lift truck powered by a battery of claim 1, further comprising: a drive axle attached to one or more of the one or more drive wheels, wherein the motor is in the drive axle.

4. The counterbalanced sit-down fork lift truck powered by a battery of claim 1 wherein, The chassis compartment is an operator inaccessibly compartment.

5. The counterbalanced sit-down fork lift truck powered by a battery of claim 4 wherein, The operator compartment floor is not readily detachable by the operator and includes a cover for the operator inaccessibly compartment.

6. The battery powered balance seat fork lift truck of claim 1 wherein, The operator compartment floor extends substantially flat across substantially an entire width of the battery powered, counterbalanced sit-to-stand fork lift truck from one side to another.

7. The counterbalanced sit-down fork lift truck powered by a battery as defined in claim 1 or 6 wherein, The operator compartment floor is between about 24 centimeters and about 76 centimeters above the floor of the indoor warehouse.

8. The battery powered balance seat fork lift truck of claim 1 wherein, The operator compartment floor is between about 43 centimeters and about 56 centimeters above the floor of the indoor warehouse.

9. The battery powered balance seat fork lift truck of claim 1 wherein, At least one of the one or more drive wheels has a drive wheel height, and wherein the operator compartment floor height is less than or equal to 90% of the drive wheel height.

10. The counterbalanced sit-down fork lift truck powered by a battery as defined in claim 1 or 6 wherein, At least one of the one or more drive wheels has a drive wheel height and a drive wheel radius height, and wherein the operator compartment floor height is between the drive wheel height and the drive wheel radius height.

11. The counterbalanced sit-down fork lift truck powered by a battery of claim 1, further comprising: one or more rear wheels having a rear wheel radius height, wherein at least one of the one or more drive wheels has a drive wheel height, and wherein the floor height of the operator compartment floor is between the drive wheel height and the rear wheel radius height.

12. The counterbalanced sit-down fork lift truck powered by a battery of claim 1 or 6 wherein, The operator compartment floor is at a height above the ground that enables an operator having a height within 95% of a population to comfortably step into the operator compartment from the ground in one step, and that enables the operator to comfortably step out of the operator compartment to the ground in one step.

13. The battery powered, counterbalanced, sit-down fork lift truck of claims 1, 8, 9 or 11 wherein, The chassis compartment has a chassis compartment top area between the one or more drive wheels and the counterweight and between the left and right sides of the chassis, and wherein the floor area of the operator compartment floor is greater than or equal to 90% of the chassis compartment top area.

14. The counterbalanced sit-down fork lift truck powered by a battery of claim 1 or 6 wherein, The chassis compartment has a chassis compartment top area between the one or more drive wheels and the counterweight and between the left and right sides of the chassis, and wherein the floor area of the operator compartment floor is greater than or equal to 75% of the chassis compartment top area.

15. The battery powered, balanced sit-stand fork lift truck of claims 1, 8, 9 or 11 wherein, The operator compartment floor has a substantially flat floor area that is greater than or equal to 50% of the chassis compartment top area.

16. The counterbalanced sit-to-stand scooter powered by a battery of claim 1, further comprising: The operator-accessible compartment has a roof, and an operator-maintainable component located in the operator-accessible compartment, and wherein the operator-accessible compartment is located above the counterweight.

17. The counterbalanced sit-to-stand scooter powered by a battery of claim 16, wherein, The operator-maintainable component is one of a motor controller, a fuse, a VSM, a contactor, or any combination thereof.

18. The battery powered balance fork lift truck of claim 1 wherein, The counterweight includes a plurality of distinct components.

19. The battery powered balance fork lift truck of claim 1 wherein, The battery is a maintenance-free battery.

20. The counterbalanced sit-to-stand scooter powered by a battery of claim 19, wherein, The maintenance-free battery is a lithium-based battery.

21. The battery powered balance fork lift truck of claim 1 wherein, The operator seat includes a backrest, and the operator compartment floor extends rearward at least partially under the backrest of the operator seat.

22. The counterbalanced sit-to-stand scooter powered by a battery of claim 21, wherein, The operator compartment floor extends rearward such that the entire backrest of the operator seat is above the operator compartment floor.

23. The counterbalanced, battery-powered sit-down fork lift truck of claim 1 wherein, The operator seat is rotatable about a vertical axis.

24. The counterbalanced sit-to-stand scooter powered by a battery of claim 23, wherein, The range of rotation of the operator seat is greater than or equal to about ±180 degrees from facing directly forward.

25. The counterbalanced, battery-powered sit-down fork lift truck of claim 23 wherein, The range of rotation of the operator seat is greater than or equal to about ±22 degrees from facing directly forward.

26. The counterbalanced sit-to-stand scooter powered by a battery of claim 23, wherein, The operator seat is configured to slide rearward as the operator seat rotates so as to keep the operator's legs within the operator compartment as the operator seat rotates.

27. The counterbalanced, battery-powered sit-down fork lift truck of claim 1 wherein, The operator seat has a bottom having a front edge, a left edge, a right edge, and a rear edge, and wherein the operator compartment floor extends substantially flat from front to rear from a front shroud proximate a front of the battery-powered, counterbalanced sit-down fork lift truck to a rear floor edge rearward of the front edge of the bottom of the operator seat.

28. The counterbalanced, battery-powered sit-down fork lift truck of claim 1 wherein, There is an amount of leg room on the operator compartment floor to allow the operator to swing the operator's legs laterally while keeping the operator's feet above the operator compartment floor.

29. The counterbalanced, battery-powered sit-down fork lift truck of claim 1 wherein, The battery-powered, counterbalanced sit-down fork lift truck does not have a steering wheel that extends from the operator compartment floor.

30. The counterbalanced, battery-powered sit-down scooter of claim 1, wherein, The battery-powered, counterbalanced sit-down fork lift truck does not have foot pedals controls.

31. The counterbalanced, battery-powered sit-down fork lift truck of claim 1 wherein, The operator seat includes at least one armrest, and wherein the operator controls are located on the at least one armrest.

32. The counterbalanced, battery-powered sit-down fork lift truck of claim 1 further comprising: A steering wheel.

33. The counterbalanced, battery-powered sit-down fork lift truck of claim 1 further comprising: One or more foot pedal controls.

34. The counterbalanced, battery-powered sit-down fork lift truck of claim 1 wherein, The operator compartment floor provides structural strength to the chassis to resist deflection of the chassis.

35. The counterbalanced, battery-powered sit-down scooter of claim 1, wherein, The plurality of wheels comprises at least one left wheel and at least one right wheel, and wherein the operator compartment floor extends from one side to the other, from the at least one left wheel to the at least one right wheel.

36. The counterbalanced, battery-powered sit-down fork lift truck of claim 1 wherein, The plurality of wheels consists of three wheels.

37. The counterbalanced, battery-powered sit-down scooter of claim 1, wherein, The plurality of wheels consists of four wheels.

38. The counterbalanced, battery-powered sit-down fork lift truck of claim 1 further comprising: A lift assembly is attached to the chassis and has a fork.

39. The counterbalanced, battery-powered sit-down scooter of claim 1, wherein, The center of gravity of the battery-powered, counterbalanced sit-down forklift truck is located at a center of gravity height that is less than or equal to the height of at least one of the one or more drive wheels.

40. The counterbalanced, battery-powered sit-down fork lift truck of claim 1 wherein, The center of gravity of the battery-powered, counterbalanced sit-down forklift truck is located at a center of gravity height that is less than or equal to the height of the operator compartment floor.

41. The battery-powered, counterbalanced sit-down forklift truck of claim 1, wherein There is an unobstructed direct line of sight from an average male height seated in the operator seat to the front top of an object that is less than or equal to 165 mm high within 850 mm behind the battery-powered, counterbalanced sit-down forklift truck.

42. The counterbalanced, battery-powered sit-down fork lift truck of claim 1 wherein, The operator compartment is equally accessible from both the right and left sides of the chassis for the operator.

43. The counterbalanced, battery-powered sit-down fork lift truck of claim 1 wherein, The operator compartment has an operator compartment height from the operator compartment floor to the overhead guard that is greater than or equal to 152 cm.

44. The counterbalanced, battery-powered sit-down scooter of claim 1, wherein, The driver seat includes a bottom cushion, and the operator compartment floor is configured such that the entire bottom cushion of the operator seat is above the operator compartment floor.

45. The counterbalanced, battery-powered sit-down scooter of claim 1, wherein, The battery is a lithium-ion battery.

46. The counterbalanced, battery-powered sit-down scooter of claim 1, wherein, The operator compartment floor is about 51 cm above the floor of the indoor warehouse.

47. A counterbalanced, sit-down, fork lift truck powered by a battery as claimed in claim 1 wherein, The hydraulic pump is connected directly to the hydraulic tank without the need for a hose. The hydraulic pump is connected directly to the hydraulic tank without the need for a hose.

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