Aluminum base support table for automobile repair

Abstract

A support bench (100) for automotive repair is disclosed. The support bench comprises a main frame (102) including at least two parallel and spaced apart rail members (110) connected to each other by means of one or more crossbars (112). Each rail member (110) comprises a plurality of tubular sections (114) successively connected in series and at least one metal insert (116) disposed within the tubular sections (114). The metal insert (116) extends along the length of the tubular sections (114). The rail members (110) and the crossbars (112) are made of aluminum material. Further, one or more fastener modules (118, 120, 122, 124) are configured to detachably fasten the crossbars (112) to the rail members (110). The support bench further comprises a chassis clamp (104) attached to the rail members (110) for rigidly connecting a vehicle to the main frame (102). The support bench can be easily assembled, portable, ergonomic, lightweight, robust, and easily configurable to fit various repair tasks and vehicle sizes.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a support platform, and more specifically, to a support platform made of aluminum for use in automobile repair. Background Technology

[0002] The automotive repair and maintenance field continues to evolve with advancements in vehicle technology. Modern cars incorporate increasingly complex systems and components, posing challenges for mechanics responsible for repair and adjustments. Traditional repair processes often involve the use of multiple tools and equipment, requiring mechanics to adopt uncomfortable postures and perform repetitive actions for extended periods.

[0003] Existing workbenches and stations used in automotive repair lack the flexibility and portability needed to effectively address these challenges. Many traditional workbenches are bulky, cumbersome to assemble, and have limited adaptability to different repair tasks and vehicle types. Furthermore, the weight and rigidity of traditional workbench materials (such as steel) hinder mobility and increase the physical strain on mechanics.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for a support platform that prioritizes ease of assembly, portability, and ergonomic design, which can significantly improve the efficiency and comfort of automotive repair operations. Furthermore, the support platform needs to be lightweight, robust, and easy to configure to adapt to various repair tasks and vehicle sizes, while incorporating functions that promote mechanical safety and well-being. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention discloses a support platform for automotive repair. The support platform includes a main frame comprising at least two parallel and spaced-apart track members connected to each other by means of one or more crossbars. The crossbars extend between the track members. Each track member includes a plurality of tubular sections formed sequentially in series and at least one metal insert disposed within the tubular section. The metal insert extends along the length of the tubular section. The track members and crossbars are made of aluminum.

[0006] Furthermore, one or more fastener modules are configured to detachably fasten the crossbar to the track members. Each track member includes a first end and a second end opposite to the first end. At least one crossbar extends between the first ends of the two track members, and at least one crossbar extends between the second ends of the two track members.

[0007] The fastener module includes a sheet metal part disposed at the end of the track member and at a first side of a first engagement position of the crossbar. The fastener also includes a bracket disposed at a second side of the first engagement position. The first side is opposite to the second side. The sheet metal part and the bracket are connected to the track member and the crossbar by nuts and bolts. The fastener module also includes at least two brackets. At least one bracket is disposed at the first side of the second engagement position of the track member and the crossbar, and at least one bracket is disposed at the second side of the second engagement position of the track member and the crossbar. The first side is opposite to the second side. Each bracket includes one or more holes. Each bracket is connected to the track member and the crossbar by bolts and nuts.

[0008] The bracket and sheet metal components include one or more holes. The track members and crossbars include multiple spaced cavities to receive nuts. The holes are capable of receiving bolts passing through them and tightening the bolts to the nuts, thereby securing the crossbars to the track members. The support platform also includes chassis clamps attached to the track members for rigidly connecting the vehicle to the main frame. Each chassis clamp has a jaw portion that can be connected to a flange on the underside of the vehicle.

[0009] The support platform also includes a traction unit for straightening traction. The traction unit is attached to the main frame and to the vehicle for straightening traction. The support platform also includes one or more wheel assemblies disposed at the bottom of the track member. Each wheel assembly includes a swivel caster and a wheel mounted to an axle of the swivel caster. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 An exemplary perspective view of a support platform according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0011] Figure 2 An example is shown Figure 1 Side view of the support platform.

[0012] Figure 3 An example is shown Figure 1 Another view of the support platform.

[0013] Figure 4 An example is shown Figure 1 An exploded view of the main frame and fastener modules.

[0014] Figure 5 An example is shown Figure 4 Part A of the exploded view of the main frame and fastener modules.

[0015] Figure 6 Another exploded view of the main frame and fastener module of the support platform is shown as an example.

[0016] Figure 7 An example is shown Figure 1 A perspective view of the chassis fixture.

[0017] Figure 8 An exemplary chassis clamp connected to a flange on the underside of a vehicle is shown, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 9 An example is shown Figure 1 A perspective view of the traction unit of the support platform.

[0019] Figure 10 An example is shown Figure 1 A perspective view of the wheel assembly of the support platform. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments are illustrated. However, the concepts discussed herein may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the exemplary embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope to those skilled in the art. The same reference numerals refer to similar elements, but not necessarily the same or identical elements.

[0021] Reference Figures 1 to 3 The support stand 100 is made from standard aluminum (alloy) profiles, an readily available raw material that ensures ease of use and compatibility. Support stands used in the collision repair industry for vehicle body repair require a flat surface with minimal tolerances, which is effortlessly achieved by the support stand 100 through the precision extrusion of aluminum profiles, eliminating the need for additional machining processes. Compared to steel, aluminum profiles are 100% recyclable and offer advantages in terms of ecology and sustainability. Furthermore, the aluminum profiles reduce the weight of the support stand 100. The support stand 100 can be produced locally without transportation, reducing transportation costs and minimizing carbon emissions. The absence of machining and welding results in a smaller, lighter package, further reducing costs. The support stand 100 is a DIY product and is compatible with all existing Celette equipment, while also being flexible enough to adapt to competitor support stands.

[0022] The support platform 100 includes a main frame 102, one or more fastener modules, one or more chassis clamps 104, a wheel assembly 106, and a traction unit 108. The main frame 102 includes one or more track members 110 connected to each other by means of one or more crossbars 112. In one embodiment, the main frame 102 includes at least two parallel track members 110 connected to each other by means of one or more crossbars 112. The aluminum profile track members 110 are assembled by bolting the track members 110 to the crossbars 112 and adjusting the track members 110 and the crossbars 112 using small adapter inserts.

[0023] A crossbar 112 extends between track members 110. The track members 110 and the crossbar 112 can be easily connected and detached from each other at any position. The track member 110 includes a plurality of tubular portions 114. The tubular portions 114 are formed in series. The tubular portions 114 are configured to accommodate at least one insert 116. In one embodiment, the insert 116 is a metal insert. In this specification, the insert 116 is also referred to as a metal insert. The insert 116 extends along the length of the track member 110. The insert 116 is at least 2 meters long.

[0024] Crossbars 112 are detachably connected to track members 110 via fastener modules. Each track member 110 includes a first end and a second end. In one embodiment, one or more crossbars 112 include at least four crossbars 112. At least one crossbar 112 extends between the first ends of two track members 110, and at least one crossbar 112 extends between the second ends of two track members 110. Further, one or more crossbars 112 extend at the middle and near-middle portions of the track members 110. A wheel assembly 106 is arranged at the bottom of the track member 110.

[0025] The traction unit 108 is configured for straightening and traction of the vehicle body. The traction unit 108 is attached to the main frame 102 and to the vehicle body for straightening and traction. In one embodiment, the support platform 100 is made of aluminum. In one embodiment, the crossbar 112 and the track member 110 are made of aluminum. In another embodiment, the crossbar 112 and the track member 110 are made of titanium.

[0026] Reference Figures 4 to 6 The fastener module includes one or more sheet metal parts 118 and one or more brackets 120. The position where the crossbar 112 engages with the end of the track member 110 is referred to as the first engagement position. Further, the position where the crossbar 112 engages with the middle portion of the track member 110 is referred to as the second engagement position. The sheet metal part 118 is disposed on a first side of the first engagement position between the track member 110 and the crossbar 112. Further, the bracket 120 is disposed on a second side of the first engagement position. The first side and the second side are disposed opposite each other.

[0027] Sheet metal part 118 and bracket 120 are connected to track member 110 and crossbar 112 by nuts 122 and bolts 124. Further, at least one bracket 120 is disposed at a first side of a second engagement position of track member 110 and crossbar 112. At least one bracket 120 is disposed at a second side of a second engagement position of track member 110 and crossbar 112. The first side is disposed opposite to the second side. Each bracket 120 is connected to the corresponding track member 110 and crossbar 112 by bolts 124 and nuts 122. One or more nuts 122 are disposed near the first and second engagement positions of track member 110 and crossbar 112. Track member 110 and crossbar 112 include a plurality of spaced-apart cavities 132 to receive nuts 122. Cavities 132 have a shape complementary to that of nuts 122 to receive nuts 122.

[0028] The bracket 120 and sheet metal part 118 also include one or more holes 134. Bolts 124 pass through the holes 134 of the respective brackets 120 and sheet metal parts 118 to fasten to the respective nuts 122. Thus, the track member 110 is fastened to the respective crossbar 112. Further, one or more washers 136 are used to secure the nuts 122 and bolts 124. Further, the bracket 120 is a 90-degree engagement bracket.

[0029] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 The chassis clamp 104 is attached to the track member 110. The chassis clamp 104 is capable of rigidly connecting the vehicle 140 to the main frame 102. Each chassis clamp 104 has an upper jaw portion 126 that can be connected to a flange on the underside of the vehicle 140. In one embodiment, the chassis clamp 104 is pivotally secured. In one embodiment, the jaw portion 126 is pivotable about an axis perpendicular to the track member 110. Furthermore, the chassis clamp 104 also includes a controllable locking module to lock the jaw portion 126 in a non-pivotable state.

[0030] Reference Figure 9 The traction unit 108 is attached to the main frame 102 and to the vehicle body for straightening traction. The traction unit 108 includes a first frame 142 connected to the main frame 102 and a second frame 144 extending perpendicularly to the first frame 142. The first frame 142 extends horizontally relative to the main frame 102. The chassis clamp 104 and the traction unit 108 also include a locking module 138 for quick locking.

[0031] Reference Figure 10One or more wheel assemblies 106 are arranged at the bottom of the track member 110. The wheel assembly 106 provides mobility and maneuverability to the support platform 100. The wheel assembly 106 includes swivel casters 128 and wheels 130 mounted to axles of the swivel casters 128. The swivel casters 128 attach the wheels 130 to the track member 110. The swivel casters 128 facilitate smooth rotation and directional movement of the wheels 130, which enables the support platform 100 to navigate easily across a variety of surfaces.

[0032] The support stand 100 is designed for automotive repair and bodywork applications. The support stand 100 is a lightweight, DIY (do-it-yourself) support stand: it can be easily assembled without machinery and can be disassembled into several pieces for easy transport and storage. Using aluminum as the primary material provides comparable durability and strength to traditional steel support stands, while being lighter and more portable. Furthermore, metal inserts 116 provide additional support and stability to the support stand 100, especially for large vehicles and heavy-duty repair tasks. The support stand 100 is equipped with casters 130 for easy maneuverability within the workshop. Chassis clamps 104 and a towing unit 108 secure the vehicle during repairs. The support stand 100 ensures safety and stability during use and promotes efficient and effective automotive repair.

[0033] Although features, functions, components, and parts have been described herein in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure, the scope of this patent is not limited thereto. Rather, this patent covers all embodiments that fall fully within the scope of permissible equivalents of the teachings of this disclosure.

[0034] Many modifications and other embodiments of the present disclosure will be apparent from the teachings presented in the foregoing description and the accompanying drawings. Therefore, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terminology is used herein, it is used in a general and descriptive sense only and not for limiting purposes.

Claims

1. A support platform for automobile repair, comprising: The main frame includes at least two parallel and spaced track members connected to each other by means of one or more crossbars, wherein each track member includes: a plurality of tubular portions formed in series; and at least one metal insert disposed within the tubular portions, wherein the track members and crossbars are made of aluminum. One or more fastener modules, configured to detachably fasten the crossbar to the track member; and One or more chassis clamps are attached to the track member for rigidly connecting the vehicle to the main frame.

2. The support platform according to claim 1, wherein, The crossbar extends between the track components.

3. The support platform according to claim 1, wherein, The metal insert extends along the length of the tubular portion.

4. The support platform according to claim 1, wherein, Each chassis clamp has a jaw portion that can be connected to a flange on the underside of the vehicle.

5. The support platform according to claim 1, wherein, The track component includes a first end and a second end opposite to the first end.

6. The support platform according to claim 5, wherein, At least one crossbar extends between the first ends of the two track members, and at least one crossbar extends between the second ends of the two track members.

7. The support platform according to claim 6, wherein, The fastener module includes: a sheet metal part disposed at a first side portion of the end of the track member and a first engagement position of the crossbar; and a bracket disposed at a second side portion of the first engagement position, wherein the first side portion is opposite to the second side portion, wherein the sheet metal part and the bracket are connected to the track member and the crossbar by nuts and bolts.

8. The support platform according to claim 7, wherein, The fastener module includes at least two brackets, wherein at least one bracket is disposed on a first side of the second engagement position between the track member and the crossbar, and at least one bracket is disposed on a second side of the second engagement position between the track member and the crossbar, wherein the first side is opposite to the second side, and wherein each bracket is connected to the track member and the crossbar by a nut and a bolt.

9. The support platform according to claim 8, wherein, The bracket and the sheet metal part include one or more holes, wherein the track member and the crossbar include a plurality of spaced cavities for receiving nuts, wherein the holes are capable of receiving bolts passing through them and fastening the bolts to the nuts, thereby fastening the crossbar to the track member.

10. The support platform according to claim 1, further comprising a traction unit for straightening traction, wherein, The traction unit is attached to the main frame and to the vehicle for straightening traction.

11. The support platform of claim 1, further comprising one or more wheel assemblies disposed at the bottom of the track member.

12. The support platform according to claim 11, wherein, The wheel assembly includes swivel casters and wheels mounted to the axles of the swivel casters.

13. A support platform for automobile repair, comprising: The main frame includes at least two parallel and spaced track members connected to each other by means of one or more crossbars, wherein each track member includes: a plurality of tubular portions formed in series; and at least one metal insert disposed within the tubular portions, wherein the track members and the crossbars are made of at least one of aluminum and titanium. One or more fastener modules, the one or more fastener modules being configured to detachably fasten the crossbar to the track member; One or more chassis clamps are attached to the track member for rigidly connecting the vehicle to the main frame, wherein each chassis clamp has a jaw portion that can be connected to a flange on the underside of the vehicle. A traction unit, attached to the main frame, wherein the traction unit is configured to be attached to the vehicle for straightening traction; and One or more wheel assemblies are arranged at the bottom of the track member, wherein each wheel assembly includes a swivel caster and a wheel mounted to the axle of the swivel caster.

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