Mobile support device

By designing a movable support device with a sliding or pivotable base and extension, the problem of convenience of practical modules in the existing movable and support modular system is solved, realizing flexible modular transportation and support, and improving the operational efficiency on the work site.

CN223791504UActive Publication Date: 2026-01-13MILWAUKEE ELECTRIC TOOL CORP
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202390000472.X
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2022-07-26
Filing Date
2023-07-21
Publication Date
2026-01-13
Estimated Expiration
2033-07-21

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing technologies lack flexible and efficient mobile support devices, making it difficult to conveniently move and support practical modules within modular systems on-site.

Method used

A mobile support device is designed, including a base and an extension, which are connected by a sliding or pivoting manner. It is equipped with a handle and multiple wheels, and has multiple concave connectors that can switch between retracted and extended positions, enabling detachable connection with practical modules within a modular system.

Benefits of technology

It provides a flexible transportation solution, which can adjust the length of the device according to the needs, facilitates the movement and support of practical modules, and improves the ease of operation on the job site.

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Abstract

The utility model relates to a movable supporting device, which comprises a base part, a movable supporting part and a movable supporting part, and is characterized in that the base part comprises a first top surface and a cavity, and the first top surface faces upwards and is far away from the cavity; a handle coupled to and extending upwardly from the base; an extension slidably coupled to the base such that the extension slides into and out of the cavity between a retracted position and an extended position; a plurality of wheels, each wheel of the plurality of wheels coupled to one of the base or the extension; and a first plurality of female couplings defined by the second top surface. The extension includes a second top surface located at least partially, directly below the first top surface when the extension is in the retracted position. Each female coupler of the first plurality of female couplings includes a concave surface, a first rib and a second rib, each extending over the concave surface, each female coupler of the first plurality of female couplings configured for stop engagement with a male coupler of a first utility module.
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Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Application No. 63 / 392,349, filed July 26, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to transportation devices. Specifically, it relates to mobile devices configured to be coupled to one or more units within a modular system. Utility Model Content

[0004] One embodiment of this utility model relates to a mobile support device configured to move and support a utility module in a work site. The mobile support device includes: a base including a first top surface and a cavity, the first top surface facing upward and away from the cavity; a handle coupled to and extending upward from the base; an extension slidably coupled to the base; a plurality of wheels, each of the plurality of wheels coupled to either the base or the extension; and a first plurality of concave connectors defined by a second top surface. The handle is configured to be gripped when the base is pulled or pushed on the ground. The extension slides into and out of the cavity between a retracted position and an extended position. The extension includes a second top surface, and the second top surface is at least partially and directly below the first top surface when the extension is in the retracted position. Each of the first plurality of concave connectors includes a recessed surface, a first rib, and a second rib. The first rib and the second rib each extend above the recessed surface. Each of the first plurality of concave connectors is configured to engage with the convex connector of the first utility module in a stop engagement.

[0005] In various embodiments, the extension includes a first latch recess configured to receive a latch protruding from the first utility module when the first plurality of concave connectors are engaged with the convex connector of the first utility module, thereby rigidly connecting the first utility module to the extension.

[0006] Another embodiment of this utility model relates to a mobile support device configured to move and support a utility module in a work site. The mobile support device includes: a base including an upper wall and a cavity, the upper wall defining a first top surface facing upward and away from the cavity; a handle coupled to and extending upward from the base; an extension coupled to the base; a plurality of wheels, each of the plurality of wheels coupled to either the base or the extension; a first plurality of concave connectors defined by the first top surface; and a second plurality of concave connectors defined by a second top surface. The handle is configured to be gripped when the base is pulled or pushed on the ground. The extension includes a second top surface and is actuated relative to the base between a first position and a second position. Each of the first plurality of concave connectors includes a recessed surface, a first rib, and a second rib. The first rib and the second rib each extend above the recessed surface. Each of the first plurality of concave connectors is configured for stop engagement with a convex connector of a first utility module. Each of the second plurality of concave connectors includes a recessed surface, a first rib, and a second rib. The first and second ribs each extend above the recessed surface. Each of the second plurality of concave connectors is configured for stop engagement with a convex connector of the first utility module. When the extension is in a first position relative to the base, the upper wall blocks access to the second plurality of concave connectors for stop engagement with the convex connector of the first utility module. When the extension is in a second position relative to the base, the second plurality of concave connectors face upwards, and the upper wall does not block access to the second plurality of concave connectors for stop engagement with the convex connector of the first utility module.

[0007] Another embodiment of this utility model relates to a mobile support device configured to move and support a utility module in a work site. The mobile support device includes: a base defining a first top surface; a handle coupled to and extending upward from the base; a first plurality of wheels coupled to the base; an extension pivotally coupled to the base; and a first plurality of concave connectors defined by a second top surface. The handle is configured to be gripped when the base is pulled or pushed on the ground. The extension defines the second top surface. The extension is pivotally actuated relative to the base between an open position and a closed position. The second top surface and the first top surface face each other when the extension is in the closed position, and both the second top surface and the first top surface face upward when the extension is in the open position. Each of the first plurality of concave connectors includes a recessed surface, a first rib, and a second rib. The first rib and the second rib each extend above the recessed surface. Each of the first plurality of concave connectors is configured to engage with the convex connector of the first utility module in a stop engagement.

[0008] Another embodiment of this utility model relates to a mobile support device configured to move and support a utility module in a work site. The mobile support device includes: a base defining a first top surface and a cavity; a first plurality of wheels coupled to the base; an extension slidably coupled to the base such that the extension slides into and out of the cavity, the extension defining a second top surface; a second plurality of wheels coupled to the extension; a first plurality of concave connectors defined by the first top surface; and a second plurality of concave connectors defined by the second top surface. Each of the first plurality of concave connectors and each of the second plurality of concave connectors includes a recessed surface, a first rib, and a second rib, each extending above the recessed surface. Each of the first plurality of concave connectors is configured for stop engagement with a convex connector of a first utility module.

[0009] In various embodiments, the base and the extension together define a length that varies as the extension slides into and out of the cavity. In various embodiments, each of the first plurality of concave connectors and each of the second plurality of concave connectors includes a rear wall, a first side wall, a second side wall, and a front wall extending upward from the recessed surface. A first rib extends from the rear wall toward the front wall, and a first rib extends from the first side wall toward the second side wall. A second rib extends from the rear wall toward the front wall, and a second rib extends from the second side wall toward the first side wall. In various embodiments, the movable support device includes a handle extending from the base, the handle being configured to be gripped when the movable support device is pulled or pushed on the ground.

[0010] Another embodiment of this utility model relates to a mobile support device configured to move and support a utility module in a work site. The mobile support device includes: a base defining a first top surface and a cavity; a first plurality of wheels coupled to the base; an extension pivotally coupled to the base and defining a second top surface; a second plurality of wheels coupled to the extension; a first plurality of concave connectors defined by the first top surface; and a second plurality of concave connectors defined by the second top surface. The extension is pivotally actuated between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the first and second top surfaces face each other. In the open position, both the first and second top surfaces face a vertical direction (e.g., the first and second top surfaces are coplanar and face upwards). Each of the first plurality of concave connectors and the second plurality of concave connectors includes a recessed surface, a first rib, and a second rib, the first rib and the second rib each extending above the recessed surface, and each of the first plurality of concave connectors is configured for stop engagement with a convex connector of the first utility module.

[0011] Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the detailed description below, and some of these features and advantages will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the description, or will be recognized by practice of the embodiments described in the included written description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary.

[0012] The accompanying drawings are included to provide further understanding and are incorporated in and form a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate one or more embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles and operation of various embodiments. Additionally, alternative exemplary embodiments relate to other features and combinations of features as generally set forth in the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0013] This application will be more fully understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements, in which:

[0014] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a movable support device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0015] Figure 2 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 1 A perspective view of the movable support device.

[0016] Figure 3 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 1 A detailed perspective view of a part of the movable support device.

[0017] Figure 4 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 1 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the movable support device.

[0018] Figure 5 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 1 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the movable support device.

[0019] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of a movable support device according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0020] Figure 7 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 6 A perspective view of the movable support device.

[0021] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of a movable support device according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0022] Figure 9This is a perspective view of a utility module according to an exemplary embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0023] Referring generally to the accompanying drawings, various embodiments of a transport device configured for use within a modular system are shown. The transport device is configured to detachably engage with a unit, such as a modular unit, to facilitate movement of the modular unit. The transport device is also configured to be actuated between a closed position and an open position. In various embodiments, the transport device is slidably actuated between a retracted position and an extended position.

[0024] In the extended position, the transport device can be coupled to two different stacks of the utility module, one stack coupled to the base and the other to the extension. In the retracted position, the transport device maintains a smaller profile (e.g., shorter) compared to the extended position, but is still coupled to a single stack of the utility module. The applicant has observed that providing a transport device actuated between a shorter single stack coupled to the utility module and a longer multiple stacks coupled to the utility module provides users with the flexibility to customize the transport device to their current needs.

[0025] The term "utility module" is used in its broadest sense below and is intended to refer to a variety of items, such as storage containers of any shape and size, travel luggage, toolboxes, organizers, compact workbenches, cable storage units, tools (e.g., hand tools, generators, and power supplies), communication modules, carrying platforms, motion platforms, etc., wherein any utility module can be detachably attached to any other utility module. The term "utility assembly," as used herein, refers to any set of utility modules constructed for hinged connection to each other, serving as either a fixed or movable unit.

[0026] Reference Figures 1 to 5 The illustration shows a transport device, shown as a mobile support device 110, according to an exemplary embodiment. The mobile support device 110 is configured to move and support a utility module (e.g., ...) at the work site. Figure 9 (Utility module 400 in the text). The movable support device 110 includes a base 120 and an extension 140 slidably coupled to the base 120 such that the extension 140 slides into and out of a cavity 130 between a retracted position and an extended position. The movable support device 110 includes a handle 112 coupled to and extending from the base 120. In various embodiments, the handle 112 extends and retracts relative to the base 120. The handle 112 is configured to be gripped when the base 120 is pulled or pushed on the ground. In various embodiments, the movable support device 110 includes a plurality of wheels (e.g., wheels 126 and / or wheels 146), each of which is coupled to one of the base 120 or the extension 140.

[0027] In various embodiments, a plurality of wheels (e.g., rear wheels 126 and / or wheels 146) coupled to one of the base 120 and the extension 140 include a plurality of rear wheels 126 coupled to the rear portion 136 of the base 120, with the cavity 130 facing away from the rear portion 136 of the base 120. In various embodiments, a plurality of wheels (e.g., rear wheels 126 and / or wheels 146) coupled to one of the base 120 and the extension 140 include a plurality of rear wheels 126 extending below a bottom surface 138 of the base 120 opposite to the top surface 122, and a handle 112 extending above the top surface 122.

[0028] The base 120 includes an upper wall 121 defining a top surface 122, a front portion 124, one or more wheels 126, one or more coupling mechanisms, shown as concave couplings 132, arranged on the top surface 122, and a cavity 130, with the top surface 122 facing upward and away from the cavity 130. In various embodiments, a plurality of concave couplings 132 are defined by the top surface 122. The base 120 and the extension 140 together define a length 114 that varies as the extension 140 is actuated between a retracted position and an extended position, and the length 114 is along a direction 190 extending from the rear wall 176 of the concave coupling (e.g., concave coupling 150) with the first rib 186 and the second rib 188. Figure 3 The length 114 of the movable support device 110 is measured along a parallel axis 116. The extension 140 extends out of and retracts into the cavity 130, thereby reducing or increasing the length 114 (e.g., horizontal length) of the movable support device 110. In various embodiments, the extension 140 extends from the front portion 124 of the base 120.

[0029] The concave connector 132 is configured to detachably connect the base 120 to one or more utility modules within a modular system. For example, the utility module is connected to the base 120 by sliding it relative to the base 120 in direction 128. The base 120 includes a latching recess 134 configured to receive a latch protruding from the first utility module when the first plurality of concave connectors 132 are engaged with a convex connector stop of the first utility module (e.g., ...). Figure 9 The latch 404 of the utility module 400 in the middle rigidly connects the first utility module to the base 120.

[0030] The extension 140 includes a top surface 142, a front portion 144, one or more wheels 146, and one or more coupling mechanisms, the one or more coupling mechanisms being shown as concave couplings 150 arranged on the top surface 142, for example via concave couplings 150 defined by the top surface 142. In various embodiments, a plurality of concave couplings 150 are defined by the top surface 142. The extension 140 is slidably coupled to the base 120 such that the extension 140 slides in direction 152 when retracted into the cavity 130. In various embodiments, the top surface 142 is at least partially and directly below the top surface 122 when the extension 140 is in the retracted position. In various embodiments, the plurality of concave couplings 150 are covered within the cavity 130 when the extension 140 is in the retracted position (e.g., Figure 2 ), and multiple concave connectors 150 are exposed when the extension 140 is in the extended position (e.g., Figure 1 ).

[0031] The concave connector 150 is configured to detachably connect the extension 140 to one or more utility modules within the modular system. For example, the utility module is connected to the extension 140 by sliding it relative to the extension 140 in direction 148. The extension includes a latch recess 154 configured to receive a latch (e.g., latch 404) protruding from the utility module (e.g., utility module 400) when the first plurality of concave connectors 150 are stopped into engagement with a convex connector (e.g., convex connector 402) of the first utility module, thereby rigidly connecting the first utility module to the extension 140.

[0032] In various embodiments, when the extension 140 is in a first position relative to the base 120 (e.g., retracted position), the upper wall 121 blocks access to a plurality of concave connectors 150 for stop engagement with a convex connector of the first utility module (e.g., convex connector 402 of utility module 400), and when the extension 140 is in a second position relative to the base 120 (e.g., extended position), the plurality of concave connectors 150 face upward, and the upper wall 121 does not block access to the plurality of concave connectors 150 for stop engagement with a convex connector of the first utility module (e.g., convex connector 402 of utility module 400).

[0033] Reference Figure 3 The diagram illustrates various aspects of the concave connector 150. In various embodiments, the concave connector 132 is structurally and functionally identical or similar to the concave connector 150.

[0034] The concave connector 150 includes a recessed surface 174 located below a top surface 142, a first rib 186, and a second rib 188, each extending above the concave surface 174. Each of the plurality of concave connectors 150 is configured for use with a convex connector (e.g., of a first utility module) of the first utility module. Figure 9 The convex connector 402 of the utility module 400 is engaged. The concave connector 150 includes a rear wall 176 extending upward from a recessed surface 174, an opposite front wall 182, a first side wall 178, and an opposite second side wall 180. The concave connector 150 includes a recess 184 defined by the recessed surface 174, the rear wall 176, the front wall 182, the first side wall 178, and the second side wall 180.

[0035] A first rib 186 extends from the rear wall 176 and the first sidewall 178 above the recess 184 and / or the recessed surface 174. Specifically, the first rib 186 extends from the first sidewall 178 in direction 192 toward the second sidewall 180, and the first rib 186 extends from the rear wall 176 in direction 190. A second rib 188 extends from the rear wall 176 and the second sidewall 180 above the recess 184 and / or the recessed surface 174. Specifically, the second rib 188 extends from the second sidewall 180 in direction 194 toward the first sidewall 178, and the second rib 188 extends from the rear wall 176 in direction 190. In various embodiments, each of the first rib 186 and the second rib 188 extends from the rear wall 176 in a forward direction 190 toward the front portion 124 of the base 120, and when the extension 140 is actuated from the retracted position to the extended position (e.g., from...), ... Figure 2 The position in the middle is actuated to Figure 1 When in the position shown, the extension 140 slides relative to the base 120 in the forward direction 190.

[0036] In a specific embodiment, the concave connector 132, the latch recess 134, the concave connector 150 and / or the latch recess 154 are compatible with the coupling mechanism described in International Patent Publication No. WO 2017 / 191628, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0037] In an alternative embodiment, the concave connector 132 is used with... Figure 1 The arrangement shown is a vertical arrangement. Therefore, the connection direction for attaching the utility module to the base 120 is from the side of the base 120 rather than from the front 124 of the base 120. The advantage of this configuration is that even if there is a second stack of utility modules attached to the top of the extension 140, access to the stack of utility modules attached to the top of the base 120 is still possible (e.g., access to the front of the utility module is possible to open the cover).

[0038] Reference Figures 6 to 7 The diagram illustrates a movable support device 210 according to an exemplary embodiment. Except for the differences discussed herein, the movable support device 210 is substantially the same as the movable support device 110. Specifically, the extension 240 is pivotally connected to the base 220.

[0039] When in a closed configuration ( Figure 6 The concave connector 232 of the base 220 and the concave connector 250 of the extension 240 are arranged to face each other and not to allow access to each other, and the wheel 246 faces upward and is not in contact with the ground. In this configuration, the movable support device 210 can be stored in a more compact space, and the movable support device 210 can be moved via the wheel 226. When in the open configuration ( Figure 7 The concave connector 232 of the base 220 and the concave connector 250 of the extension 240 are accessible for connection to one or more utility modules (e.g., utility modules with convex connectors on the bottom surface). When opened, the wheel 226 contacts the ground to facilitate movement of the movable support 210 on a surface, such as the ground.

[0040] In various embodiments, when the extension 240 is in a first position relative to the base 220 (e.g., a retracted position), the upper wall of the base blocks the passageway to the plurality of concave connectors 250 for stop engagement with the convex connector of the first utility module (e.g., the convex connector 402 of the utility module 400). Figure 6 As shown), and when the extension 240 is in the second position (e.g., extended position) relative to the base 220, the plurality of concave connectors 250 face upward, and the upper wall of the base does not obstruct the passage to the plurality of concave connectors 250 for stop engagement with the convex connector of the first utility module (e.g., the convex connector 402 of the utility module 400).

[0041] Reference Figure 8 The diagram illustrates a movable support device 310 according to an exemplary embodiment. Except for the differences discussed herein, the movable support device 310 is substantially the same as the movable support device 210.

[0042] Specifically, the first surface 352 of the extension 340 includes one or more coupling mechanisms, shown as a concave connector 370. In use, the concave connector 370 is configured to connect to the utility module when the movable support 310 is in a closed configuration. Therefore, the utility module can be connected to the movable support 310 even when the movable support is in a closed configuration (e.g., when the extension 340 covers the top surface of the base 320).

[0043] In various embodiments, when the extension 340 is in a first position relative to the base 320 (e.g., a retracted position), the upper wall of the base blocks the passageway to a plurality of concave connectors extending from the top of the extension 340 for stop engagement with the convex connector of the first utility module (e.g., the convex connector 402 of the utility module 400). Figure 8 As shown in the figure, when the extension 340 is in the second position (e.g., extended position) relative to the base 320, the plurality of concave connectors face upward, and the upper wall of the base does not obstruct the passage to the plurality of concave connectors for stop engagement with the convex connector of the first utility module (e.g., the convex connector 402 of utility module 400).

[0044] Reference Figure 9 The diagram illustrates various aspects of the utility module 400. The utility module 400 includes a convex connector 402 and a latch 404.

[0045] It should be understood that the accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments in detail, and that this application is not limited to the details or methods set forth in the specification or illustrated in the drawings. It should also be understood that the terminology is for descriptive purposes only and should not be considered limiting.

[0046] Given this description, further modifications and alternative embodiments of various aspects of this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, this specification is to be interpreted as illustrative only. The constructions and arrangements shown in the various exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative. Although only a few embodiments are described in detail in this disclosure, many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in the size, dimensions, structure, shape and proportions, parameter values, mounting arrangements, use of materials, color, orientation, etc.) without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. Some elements shown as integrally formed may be composed of multiple parts or elements, the positions of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be changed or altered. The order or sequence of any process, logical algorithm, or method steps may be varied or reordered according to alternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, alterations, and omissions may also be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangements of the various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0047] Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is not intended to interpret any method described herein as requiring its steps to be performed in a particular order. Therefore, no particular order is intended to be inferred unless a method claim actually describes the order to be followed by its steps, or unless the claims or description otherwise specifically state that the steps should be limited to a particular order. Furthermore, as used herein, the article “a” is intended to include one or more components or elements, and is not intended to be construed as meaning only one. As used herein, “rigid connection” refers to two components connected in such a way that they move together in a fixed positional relationship when subjected to forces.

[0048] Various embodiments of this disclosure relate to any combination of any features, and any such combination of features may be claimed in this application or a future application. Any feature, element, or component of any exemplary embodiment discussed above may be used alone or in combination with any feature, element, or component of any other embodiment discussed above.

[0049] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "connection" refers to the direct or indirect engagement of two components with each other. Such engagement can be fixed in nature or movable in nature. It can be achieved by integrally forming a single body with the two components and any other intermediate components, or by attaching the two components to each other or to any other component. Such engagement can be permanent in nature, or alternatively, it can be removable or releaseable in nature. As used herein, "rigid connection" refers to the connection of two components in such a way that, when subjected to forces, these components move together in a fixed positional relationship.

[0050] Although this application describes specific combinations of features in the appended claims, various embodiments of the present invention relate to any combination of any features described herein, whether or not such combinations are currently claimed, and any such combination of features may be claimed in this application or a future application. Any feature, element, or component of any exemplary embodiment of the exemplary embodiments discussed above may be used alone or in combination with any feature, element, or component of any other embodiment of the other embodiments discussed above.

[0051] In various exemplary embodiments, relative dimensions, including angles, lengths, and radii, as shown in the accompanying drawings, are drawn to scale. Actual measurements of the drawings will reveal the relative dimensions, angles, and scales of the various exemplary embodiments. The various exemplary embodiments extend to a wide range around the absolute and relative dimensions, angles, and scales that can be determined from the accompanying drawings. The various exemplary embodiments include any combination of one or more relative dimensions or angles that can be determined from the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, actual dimensions not explicitly stated in this specification can be determined by combining the scales of the dimensions measured in the accompanying drawings with the explicit dimensions stated in this specification.

Claims

1. A mobile support device configured to move and support utility modules at a work site, characterized in that The mobile support device comprises: a base comprising a first top surface and a cavity, the first top surface facing upward and away from the cavity; a handle coupled to the base and extending upward from the base, the handle configured to be grasped when the base is pulled or pushed on a ground surface; an extension slidably coupled to the base such that the extension slides into and out of the cavity between a retracted position and an extended position, the extension comprising a second top surface, wherein the second top surface at least partially directly underlies the first top surface when the extension is in the retracted position; a plurality of wheels, each wheel of the plurality of wheels coupled to one of the base or the extension; and a first plurality of female couplers defined by the second top surface, each female coupler of the first plurality of female couplers comprising a recessed surface, a first rib, and a second rib, each of the first rib and the second rib extending over the recessed surface, each female coupler of the first plurality of female couplers configured for positive engagement with a male coupler of a first utility module.

2. The mobile support device of claim 1, wherein, The first plurality of female couplers is covered within the cavity when the extension is in the retracted position, and the first plurality of female couplers is exposed when the extension is in the extended position.

3. The mobile support device of claim 1, wherein, a second plurality of female couplers defined by the first top surface, each female coupler of the second plurality of female couplers comprising a recessed surface, a first rib, and a second rib, each of the first rib and the second rib extending over the recessed surface, each female coupler of the second plurality of female couplers configured for positive engagement with the male coupler of the first utility module.

4. The mobile support device of claim 1, wherein, The base and the extension collectively define a length that varies as the extension is actuated between the retracted position and the extended position.

5. The mobile support device of claim 4, wherein, The length is measured along an axis parallel to a direction in which the first rib and the second rib extend from a back wall of the female coupler.

6. The mobile support device of claim 1, wherein, The plurality of wheels comprises a plurality of back wheels coupled to a back of the base, the cavity facing away from the back of the base.

7. The mobile support device of claim 1, wherein, The plurality of wheels comprises a plurality of back wheels coupled to a back of the base, the back wheels extending below a bottom surface of the base opposite the first top surface, and the handle extending above the first top surface.

8. The mobile support device of claim 1, wherein, Each female coupler of the first plurality of female couplers comprises a back wall, a first side wall, and a second side wall, the first rib extending from the first side wall toward the second side wall, and the second rib extending from the second side wall toward the first side wall, wherein each of the first rib and the second rib extends from the back wall in a forward direction toward a front of the base, and wherein the extension slides relative to the base in the forward direction when the extension is actuated from the retracted position to the extended position.

9. The mobile support device of claim 1, wherein, The extension includes a first latch recess configured to receive a latch protruding from the first utility module when the first plurality of female couplers are in positive engagement with the male coupler of the first utility module, thereby rigidly coupling the first utility module to the extension.

10. A mobile support device configured to move and support utility modules at a work site, characterized by The mobile support device includes: a base including an upper wall and a cavity, the upper wall defining a first top surface facing upward and away from the cavity; a handle coupled to the base and extending upward from the base, the handle configured to be grasped when the base is pulled or pushed over a ground surface; an extension coupled to the base, the extension including a second top surface, wherein the extension is actuated relative to the base between a first position and a second position; a plurality of wheels, each wheel of the plurality of wheels coupled to one of the base or the extension; a first plurality of female couplers defined by the first top surface, each female coupler of the first plurality of female couplers including a recessed surface, a first rib, and a second rib, each of the first and second ribs extending above the recessed surface, each female coupler of the first plurality of female couplers configured for positive engagement with a male coupler of a first utility module; and a second plurality of female couplers defined by the second top surface, each female coupler of the second plurality of female couplers including a recessed surface, a first rib, and a second rib, each of the first and second ribs extending above the recessed surface, each female coupler of the second plurality of female couplers configured for positive engagement with the male coupler of the first utility module, wherein: when the extension is in the first position relative to the base, the upper wall blocks access to the second plurality of female couplers for positive engagement with a male coupler of the first utility module; and when the extension is in the second position relative to the base, the second plurality of female couplers face upward and the upper wall does not block access to the second plurality of female couplers for positive engagement with a male coupler of the first utility module.

11. The mobile support device of claim 10, wherein, The plurality of wheels includes a plurality of rear wheels coupled to a rear portion of the base, the rear wheels extending below a bottom surface of the base opposite the first top surface, and the handle extends above the first top surface.

12. The mobile support apparatus of claim 10, wherein, The base includes a latch recess configured to receive a latch protruding from the first utility module when the first plurality of female couplers are in positive engagement with the male coupler of the first utility module, thereby rigidly coupling the first utility module to the base.

13. The mobile support apparatus of claim 10, wherein, The extension includes a latch recess configured to receive a latch protruding from the first utility module when the second plurality of female couplers are in positive engagement with the male coupler of the first utility module, thereby rigidly coupling the first utility module to the extension.

14. The mobile support apparatus of claim 10, wherein, The extension is pivotally coupled to the base.

15. The mobile support apparatus of claim 10, wherein, The extension is slidably coupled to the base such that the base and the extension collectively define a length that varies as the extension is actuated between a retracted position and an extended position, and wherein the length is measured along an axis parallel to a direction in which the first rib and the second rib extend from a back wall of the female coupler.

16. A mobile support device configured to move and support a utility module at a work site, characterized by The mobile support device includes: a base defining a first top surface; a handle coupled to the base and extending upwardly therefrom, the handle configured to be grasped when the base is pulled or pushed over a ground surface; a first plurality of wheels coupled to the base; an extension pivotally coupled to the base, the extension defining a second top surface, wherein the extension is pivotally actuated relative to the base between an open position and a closed position, wherein the second top surface and the first top surface face one another when the extension is in the closed position, and wherein the second top surface and the first top surface both face upwardly when the extension is in the open position; and a first plurality of female couplers defined by the second top surface, each female coupler of the first plurality of female couplers including a recessed surface, a first rib, and a second rib, the first rib and the second rib each extending above the recessed surface, each female coupler of the first plurality of female couplers configured for positive engagement with a male coupler of a first utility module.

17. The mobile support apparatus of claim 16, wherein, including a second plurality of wheels coupled to the extension.

18. The mobile support apparatus of claim 16, wherein, including a second plurality of female couplers defined by the first top surface, each female coupler of the second plurality of female couplers including a recessed surface, a first rib, and a second rib, the first rib and the second rib each extending above the recessed surface, each female coupler of the second plurality of female couplers configured for positive engagement with a male coupler of a first utility module.

19. The mobile support apparatus of claim 16, wherein, The extension includes a first latch recess configured to receive a latch protruding from the first utility module when the first plurality of female couplers are positively engaged with the male coupler of the first utility module, thereby rigidly coupling the first utility module to the extension.

20. The mobile support apparatus of claim 16, wherein, Each female coupler of the first plurality of female couplers includes a back wall, a first sidewall, and a second sidewall, the first rib extending from the first sidewall toward the second sidewall, and the second rib extending from the second sidewall toward the first sidewall, wherein each of the first rib and the second rib extends away from the handle in a forward direction from the back wall.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Utility assembly and coupling mechanism

    WO2017191628A1