Lifting and lowering tool

Abstract

Lifting and lowering tool, comprising: a foot (1510) configured to be supported on a surface; a pole (1520) extending from the foot; and a movable arrangement (1530) which is arranged to move along the rod (1520), wherein the movable arrangement (1530) comprises a movable platform (1540), wherein the movable arrangement (1530) comprises: a lifting actuator (1570) configured to move the movable arrangement stepwise away from the foot along the rod in order to raise and move the movable arrangement (1530) relative to the foot, the lifting actuator comprising a plurality of lifting plates (1670) that can be selectively engaged with the rod; a release actuator (1600) configured to release the movable assembly from the rod to allow free movement of the movable assembly along the rod; a lowering actuator (1590) configured to move the movable arrangement stepwise along the rod towards the foot in order to lower the movable arrangement (1530) relative to the foot, the lowering actuator comprising a plurality of locking plates (1680) that can be selectively released from the rod; wherein the lifting and lowering tool is characterized in that the lifting actuator (1570), which is designed as a lever, extends from the housing (1560); The lifting and lowering tool further comprises a handle (1580) which is formed with or attached to the housing (1560), wherein the lifting actuator is configured so that it can be pushed downwards towards the handle in order to move the movable arrangement away from the foot.

Description

REFERENCE TO RELATED REGISTRATIONS

[0001] The present invention claims priority from the preliminary US patent application with serial number 63 / 271,632, filed on October 25, 2021, which is hereby incorporated in its entirety by reference. AREA OF INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to hand tools and in particular to spreaders or lifters. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Conventional lifting and lowering tools, such as jacks, are known. The present application relates, among other things, to various improvements to lifting and lowering tools that can be used for the controlled lifting or lowering of objects such as doors, windows, frame segments, pallets, and so on. This disclosure includes various improvements that can be used together or independently in different embodiments. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] According to one embodiment, a lifting and lowering tool comprises a foot configured to be supported on a surface, a rod extending from the foot, and a movable assembly. The movable assembly comprises a housing, a movable platform shaped to bear a load, the movable platform extending from the housing and connected to the housing via a flange, a lifting actuator configured to move the movable assembly stepwise along the rod away from the foot, a lowering actuator configured to move the movable assembly stepwise along the rod toward the foot, and a release actuator configured to release the movable assembly from the rod to allow free movement of the movable assembly along the rod.The movable arrangement engages with the rod via locking plates, which can be selectively released from the rod by actuating the lowering actuator, and the locking plates extend through the flange.

[0005] According to another embodiment, a lifting and lowering tool comprises a foot configured to be supported on a surface, a rod extending from the foot, and a movable assembly. The movable assembly comprises a housing, a movable assembly shaped to bear a load, a lifting actuator configured to move the movable assembly incrementally along the rod away from the foot, a lowering actuator configured to move the movable assembly incrementally along the rod toward the foot, and a release actuator configured to release the movable assembly from the rod to allow free movement of the movable assembly along the rod. The release actuator is interlocked with both the lifting and lowering actuators to prevent accidental activation of the release actuator.

[0006] According to another embodiment, a lifting and lowering tool comprises a foot configured to be supported on a surface, a rod extending from the foot, and a movable assembly. The movable assembly comprises a housing, a movable platform shaped to support a load (the movable platform extending from the housing and including a flange extending from the movable platform and surrounding the rod), a lifting actuator configured to move the movable assembly stepwise along the rod away from the foot, a lowering actuator configured to move the movable assembly stepwise along the rod toward the foot, and a release actuator configured to release the movable assembly from the rod to allow free movement of the movable assembly along the rod.

[0007] According to another embodiment, a lifting and lowering tool comprises a foot configured to be supported on a surface, a rod extending from the foot, and a movable assembly. The movable assembly comprises a housing, a movable platform shaped to support a load (the movable platform extending away from the foot along the rod when the movable assembly is adjacent to the foot), a lifting actuator configured to incrementally move the movable assembly away from the foot along the rod, a lowering actuator configured to incrementally move the movable assembly toward the foot along the rod, and a release actuator configured to release the movable assembly from the rod to allow free movement of the movable assembly along the rod.

[0008] These and other objectives, features, and characteristics of the present invention, as well as the operating methods and functions of the associated structural elements, the combination of parts, and the cost-effectiveness of manufacturing, will become clearer upon consideration of the following description and the accompanying claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form part of this patent specification, where the same reference numerals denote corresponding parts in the various figures. In one embodiment of the invention, the structural components shown herein are illustrated to scale. However, it is expressly understood that the drawings serve only for illustrative and descriptive purposes and are not intended to define the limits of the invention.Furthermore, it should be noted that the structural features depicted or described in one of the embodiments described herein may also be used in other embodiments. As used in the description and the claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" also include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Features of lifting and lowering tools according to one or more embodiments are illustrated in the drawings, in which the same reference numerals denote the same elements. The drawings form part of this original disclosure, in which: Fig. 1 shows a perspective side view of a lifting and lowering tool according to a first embodiment; Fig. 2 a perspective bottom view of the tool from Fig. 1 shows; Fig. 3 a perspective side view of the tool from Fig. 1 shows a removed case; Fig. 4 an isolated perspective view of a lowering and releasing part arrangement of the tool made of Fig. 1 shows; Fig. 5A - 5C a lateral cross-sectional view of the sub-arrangement from Fig. 4. Show in neutral position, incremental lowering position or release position; Fig. 6 shows a perspective side view of a lifting and lowering tool according to a second embodiment; Fig. 7 a perspective side view of the tool Fig. Figure 6 shows the case removed, with focus on a movable platform of it; Fig. 8A - 8B a perspective side view of the tool from Fig. Figure 6, with the housing removed, shows, with focus on the lowering and releasing actuators thereof, in incremental lowering or releasing position; Fig. Figure 9 shows a side view of a lifting and lowering tool according to a third embodiment; Fig. 10 a perspective side view of the lifting and lowering tool made of Fig. 9 shows; Fig. 11 a cross-sectional view of the embodiment made of Fig. 9 shows and illustrates the internal mechanism when the tool is at rest, and how pushing down on an actuator arm causes it to lift; Fig. 12 a cross-sectional view of the embodiment made of Fig. Figure 9 shows and illustrates the internal mechanism when the tool is actuated by raising the actuator arm to cause lowering; Fig. 13 a side view of the embodiment from Fig. Figure 9 shows a distant side of the housing and illustrates the internal mechanism when the tool is actuated by pressing a release button to release a load carried by the tool. Fig. Figure 14 shows a perspective side view of a lifting and lowering tool according to a fourth embodiment; Fig. 15 a perspective side view of the lifting and lowering tool from Fig. Figure 14 shows a case cover removed to illustrate the interior; Fig. 16 a side view of the lifting and lowering tool made of Fig. Figure 14 shows a case cover removed to illustrate the interior; Fig. 17A - 17C a lateral cross-sectional view of a partial arrangement of the lifting and lowering tool made of Fig. Figure 14 shows the incremental lowering and releasing actuators in neutral position and incremental lowering and releasing position; Fig. Figure 18 shows an inside view of a fifth embodiment of the lifting and lowering tool in an unactuated position; Fig. 19 the inside view of the embodiment of the lifting and lowering tool from Fig. 18 in an activated position; Fig. 20 shows a front or rear sectional view of a sixth embodiment of the lifting and lowering tool in an unactuated position; Fig. 21 a front or rear sectional view of the embodiment of the lifting and lowering tool made of Fig. 20 in an activated position; Fig. 22 shows a lateral sectional view of a seventh embodiment of the lifting and lowering tool in an unactuated position; Fig. 23 the side sectional view of the embodiment of the lifting and lowering tool from Fig. 22 in an activated position; Fig. Figure 24 shows an inside view of an eighth embodiment of the lifting and lowering tool in an unactuated position; Fig. 25 the inside view of the embodiment of the lifting and lowering tool from Fig. 24 in an activated position; Fig. 26 shows a perspective side view of a first embodiment of a coupled arrangement of an embodiment of a lifting and lowering tool and a spreader or clamp; and Fig. Figure 27 shows a perspective side view of a second embodiment of a coupled arrangement of an embodiment of a lifting and lowering tool and a spreader or a clamp. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED FORM(S) OF EXECUTION

[0010] The Fig. Figures 1-5C illustrate a lifting and lowering tool 100 according to a first embodiment.

[0011] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the tool can comprise a foot 110 with a front foot 110a and a rear foot 110b, which are fixedly mounted to a pole 120. A movable assembly 130 can be movably mounted on the pole 120 and comprises a movable platform 140, which is received between the toes 150 of the front foot 110a. It should be noted that the front foot 110a and the movable platform 140 can be positioned together under an object to be lifted, and that by actuating the movable assembly 130, the movable platform 140 can lift the object over the foot 110. Similarly, an object placed on a raised movable platform 150 can be lowered by actuating the movable assembly 130 to lower the object to a desired location. Details of the foot 110 are discussed in more detail later, but as in Figure 1, the tool can be used to lower the object to a desired location. Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the rear foot 110b can extend backwards from the front foot 110a and can be dimensioned such that it supports the tool 100 and prevents the tool 100 from tipping backwards when the tool 100 is standing without any load, especially when the movable arrangement 130 is lifted away from the foot 110 (e.g., fully extended away from it).

[0012] As in Fig. As further shown in Figure 1, the movable arrangement 130 comprises a housing 160 and may include a lifting actuator 170, such as a lever that can be actuated against a handle 180, a lowering actuator 190, such as another lever, and a release actuator 200, which could be a third lever, as further described herein. It should be noted that in some embodiments the lowering actuator 190 and the release actuator 200 may be arranged for ergonomic reasons. For example, the lowering actuator 190 may be actuated by the outstretched fingertip of a hand gripping the handle 180 (less force is required to lower a raised load than to raise it), while the lifting actuator 170 may be actuated by a plurality of curved fingertips as a user's hand extends away from the handle 180.As shown, the release actuator 200 can have a slight mechanical advantage and be positioned such that the possibility of accidental release is reduced when the movable assembly 130 is loaded with a raised object. In a non-restrictive embodiment, operating the lowering actuator 190 lowers the movable platform by approximately 3 mm.

[0013] While in the embodiment from Fig. 1. In other embodiments, the lowering actuator 190 and the release actuator 200 are positioned so that they can be easily operated with a finger while the handle 180 is held in the hand. In other embodiments, the lowering actuator 190 and the release actuator 200 could be positioned on the top of the housing 160 to be operated with a thumb while the handle 180 is held in the hand.

[0014] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the foot 110 can, in one embodiment, be formed from a base plate 210 that is attached to the rod 120. In another embodiment, the foot 110 can be defined as starting on the rod 120, with the movement of the movable arrangement 140 along the rod 120 being limited (e.g., by a stopper function). Therefore, in one embodiment, a portion of the rod 120 can form part of the foot.

[0015] In the embodiment from Fig. 1. A fastening element 220 can extend through the rod 120 and a flange 230, which extends away from and is attached to the base plate 210, to secure the rod 120 to the base plate 210 of the foot 110. In some embodiments, the base plate 210 can be curved or cranked upwards in the direction of the extension of the rod 120. As shown in the perspective bottom view from Fig. As shown in Figure 2, such an angled configuration can create space for a connection point 240, such as a weld or other fastening element, between the rod 120 and the base / foot plate 210, since the rod 120 extends through the base plate 210. With such a configuration, additional post-processing operations to align the weld or coupling flush with the underside of the base plate 210 can be omitted.

[0016] In some embodiments, the foot 110 can form a triangular configuration, with the toes 150 of the forefoot 110a splayed and meeting a common hindfoot 110b, as described and shown below with respect to the embodiments. It should be noted that the presence of at least three surface contact points (e.g., a triangular shape of the foot 110) provides a large contact area for improved stability on uneven surfaces. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, in one embodiment the foot 110 can form a general H or X configuration, wherein the toes 150 of the forefoot 110a and the toes 250 of the hindfoot 110b together provide four surface contact points for the foot 110. Likewise, in some embodiments the movable arrangement 140 can have a generally triangular configuration, wherein a portion furthest from the rod 120 is wider than a portion closer to the rod 120.

[0017] The Fig. Figures 3-5C show the internal structure of the movable assembly 130 (e.g., without housing 160) according to one embodiment. The movement of the movable assembly 130 along the rod 120 is illustrated by these figures.

[0018] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the lifting actuator 170 pivots about a lifting actuator cross pin 260, which is attached to the housing 160 of the movable assembly 130. Operating the lifting actuator 170 exerts pressure on lifting plates 270, which engage the rod 120 and move the housing 160 upwards. Locking plates 280 engage the rod 120 and prevent the housing 160 from moving downwards again on the rod 120. As shown in Fig. As illustrated more clearly in Figure 4, in the embodiment shown, the ends 280a of the locking plates 280 extend into an opening 140a formed on an extension 140b of the movable platform 140 which is attached to the housing 160, and thus the movable platform 140 and the housing 160 exert pressure on the locking plates 280.

[0019] It should be noted that, as in Fig. Figure 3 shows that the flange 140b of the movable platform may, in some embodiments, include openings 140c configured to receive fasteners for attaching the movable platform 140 to the housing 160. Alternatively, other connections are possible; however, it is understood that the flange 140b may be detachably connected to the housing 160 such that the movable platform 140 can be detached from the housing 160 in various embodiments. Such detachment may be advantageous in some embodiments when rotating the movable platform 140 to lift it over the base 110, or, for example, to allow different configurations of the movable platform 140 to be installed on the housing 160.

[0020] In Fig. 3 and Fig. Figure 2 also shows that in some embodiments, the foot 110 may include openings 110c to facilitate its attachment to a support surface. Similarly, the movable platform 140 may include openings 140d to allow its attachment to an object to be raised or lowered. As shown, in some embodiments, the openings 110c and 140d may be countersunk relative to each other such that a flat-head fastener (e.g., as opposed to a pan-head fastener) can be received in each opening facing the appropriate direction, minimizing any protrusion and maintaining a flat configuration for the contact surfaces of the foot 110 and the movable platform 140.

[0021] One in the Fig. 4 and Fig. The more clearly visible lowering actuator cam 290 is actuated by the movement of the lowering actuator 190 and actuates the locking plates 280 for controlled lowering (in the illustrated embodiment, this can occur in steps of approximately 3 mm). The lowering actuator cam 290 and the locking plates 280 can be biased against the housing 160 by a spring 300, and the lowering actuator 190 and the lowering actuator cam 290 can be pivoted on the housing at a lowering actuator pivot point 310. As shown in Fig. As further shown in Figure 3 and described in more detail below, the release actuator 200 can pivot or actuate a release actuator cam 320, which actuates both a retaining plate 330 and the locking plates 280. This releases the retaining plate 330 and the locking plates 280 from the rod 120 and allows free movement of the movable assembly 130 along the rod 120, thereby completely releasing any load supported on the movable platform 140. As shown, the release actuator 200 can be spring-loaded by the release actuator spring 335 (pressing against the housing 160), so that when the release actuator 200 is released, it automatically moves into an unlocked position.It should be noted that a spring 340 between the retaining plate 330 and the lifting plates 270 pre-tensions the relative relationship between the lifting plates 270 and the retaining plate 330 to allow the movable assembly 130 to move along the rod 120 and be held in an elevated position. Similarly, the spring 300 between the locking plates 280 and the housing 160 prevents the load from being unintentionally lowered until it is moved incrementally by the lowering actuator 190 or released by the release actuator 200.

[0022] As in Fig. Figure 4, in which the retaining plate 330, the locking plates 280, the release actuator 200, and the lowering actuator 190 are shown in isolation, shows that actuating the release actuator 200 releases the retaining plate 330 and the locking plates 280 from the rod 120, thereby allowing free upward or downward movement of the movable assembly 130 on the rod 120 (this assembly is omitted in the isolated partial arrangement but is understood to pass through the openings of the retaining plate 330 and the locking plates 280). As shown, in some embodiments, the release actuator cam 320 can be received in a gap 340 between a pair of lowering actuator cams 290, so that the release actuator cam 320 can act directly on the retaining plates 280.

[0023] The relative actions of the lowering actuator 190, the release actuator 200, the locking plates 280, and the retaining plate 330 can be described in relation to the Fig. 5A - 5C illustrate the cross-sectional views, which show the in Fig. Cut the 4 isolated partial arrangements. Fig. Figure 5A illustrates the partial arrangement in the resting state when holding the rod 120. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 5B, pulling or otherwise rotating the lowering actuator 190 causes the lowering actuator cams 290 to press against the locking plates 280 and pull the rod 120 upward, thereby moving the movable assembly 130 downward toward the foot 110. Because the retaining plate 330 remains engaged on the rod 120, the movement is limited to the increment mentioned above. However, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 5C, actuating or, in the illustrated embodiment, rotating the release actuator 200 counterclockwise (e.g., by lifting it away from the lowering actuator 190) pushes the release actuator cam 320 downwards, which presses against the retaining plates 280, and due to the engagement between the retaining plate 330, the release actuator cam 320 and an opening 350 in the release actuator cam 320, which allows a pivot point 360 for the lowering actuator 190 not to be affected by the movement of the release actuator cam 320, thereby actuating the release actuator 200, both the retaining plate 330 and the lowering plates 280 are released, so that the movable arrangement 130 moves freely along the rod 120 without being restricted to incremental movement.

[0024] As in the Fig. As illustrated in Figures 6-8, in another embodiment a lifting and lowering tool 500 may generally resemble other lifting and lowering tools disclosed herein, unless otherwise specified. As shown, the lifting and lowering tool 500 may comprise a foot 510 having similar features to those described in relation to foot 110, such as a front foot 510a similar to the front foot 110a. However, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, in some embodiments the rear foot 510b may be a single unit, while the front foot 510a is splayed, so that the front foot 510a and the rear foot 510b form a tripod that provides three contact points on a support surface. As further shown, a rod 520 extends from the foot 510, which may generally resemble the rod 120.The movable assembly 530 can be configured to move along the rod 520 and carry a movable platform 540, which, in a lowered position, is received between the toes 550 of the forefoot 510a and, in a raised position next to a housing 560 of the movable assembly 530, can lift a load. As described in more detail below, the movable assembly 530 can be raised by actuating a lifting actuator 570, which can be pulled against a handle 580 formed with the housing 560 or extending away from the housing 560. Similarly, the movable assembly 530 can be lowered by actuating the lowering actuator 590, which can lower the movable assembly incrementally. The movable assembly 530 can be completely released by actuating a release actuator 600.

[0025] In Fig. Figure 7, which depicts the parts of the movable assembly 530 with the housing 560 removed, shows that in some embodiments the movable platform 540 is supported separately on the rod 520 and would be connected by the housing 560 to the locking plates 610 (described in more detail below). As shown, such a movable platform 540 can extend from a flange of the movable platform 620, which can enclose the rod 520. For example, a generally rectangular hole 630 can be formed in the flange of the movable platform 620. It should be noted that, should the connection between the housing 560 and the movable platform 540 fail during operation, this hole 630 and the angled connection between the rod 520 and the hole 630 allow the movable platform 540 to engage on the rod 520, thus preventing a sudden lowering of the load.Accordingly, in some embodiments the flange 620 can function as a locking plate 610 if the movable platform 540 should detach from the housing 560 (e.g. due to a failure of the housing 560 or the fastening elements that connect the movable platform 630 and / or the flange 620 to the housing 560 (e.g. by assisting the movable platform 630 and / or the flange 620 to move with the movable arrangement).

[0026] While the movable arrangement 530 may include a lifting actuator, which is generally similar to the lifting actuator 170 described above, it should be noted that in some embodiments the mechanism of a lowering actuator or release actuator may differ from that of the lowering actuator 190 and the release actuator 200. For example, as shown in the Fig. 8A and Fig. Figure 8B shows the movable platform 540 resting separately on the rod 520 and coupled to the locking plates 610 by the housing 560. As in the case of the lifting and lowering tool 500, a locking plate cross pin 640 or another bearing function may be connected to the housing 560 and maintain pressure on the locking plates 610. As further shown, a pin and spring connection 650 may be provided between a retaining plate 660 and the locking plates 610 to preload the locking plates 610 relative to the retaining plate 660 and to provide a flexible connection between the retaining plate 660 and the locking plates 610.Thus, in embodiments comprising the pin and spring connection 650 between the retaining plate 660 and the locking plates 610, the lowering actuator 590 is actuated by releasing the locking plates 610 from the rod 520 while maintaining the effect of the retaining plate 660 on the rod 520. As mentioned above, actuation of the lowering actuator 590 can lower the movable assembly 530 by approximately 3 mm. This amount is determined by the lowering actuator cam 670 connected to the lowering actuator 590, which presses on the locking plates 610 to move the movable assembly toward the foot 510. It should be noted that the movement of approximately 3 mm from the illustrated embodiment is based on the relative size of the actuator arm, the plates and the rod, and that other incremental lowering amounts can be used by increasing or decreasing the stroke of the cam on the lowering actuator.Similarly, the release actuator 600 is shaped such that, when actuated, it presses on the retaining plate 660 and the locking plates 610 to release them from the rod 520 and to allow free movement of the movable arrangement 530 along the rod 520.

[0027] The Fig. Figures 9-13 show another embodiment of the present disclosure, configured for the use of a common lifting and lowering actuator.

[0028] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, a lifting and lowering tool 1000 can include a release actuator 1010, which can be pushed downwards from a neutral position to raise a movable platform 1020 of a movable arrangement 1030 along a rod 1040, or which can be raised from a neutral position to stepwise lower the movable arrangement 1040 (and thus the movable platform 1020) along the rod 1040. Similar to the movable arrangements of other embodiments described herein, the movable arrangement 1030 can include a housing 1050 to which the movable platform 1020 is connected and from which the release actuator 1010 extends.In some embodiments, it should be noted that a stationary handle extending away from the housing 1050 and configured to be engaged when the release actuator 1010 is pressed downwards may provide the user with a more stable feel and offer the option of pressing the release downwards instead of simply pushing it downwards, regardless of whether such a stationary handle is used when the release actuator 1010 is raised upwards to incrementally lower the movable platform 1020.

[0029] As further described herein, a separate release actuator 1060 may be provided and must be pressed to completely release the connection between the movable assembly 1030 and the rod 1040. As shown, the actuator 1060 for complete release may be spaced apart and separate from the release actuator 1010 to prevent unintentional complete release that could cause a load supported by the movable platform 1020 to fall. While the lifting and lowering tool 1000 may include a foot similar to the foot 110 in some embodiments, the foot may be different in one embodiment, as shown. As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 9, a foot 1070 can comprise a front foot 1070a and a rear foot 1070b, the front foot 1070a being detachably attached to the rear foot 1070b to allow for replacement or attachment of an alternative configuration of the base plate to reshape the foot.

[0030] As shown in the perspective view of the lifting and lowering tool 1000 in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 10, in some embodiments one or more of the movable assemblies 1030 and the base 1070 may have holes 1080 to allow rigid attachment of the lifting and lowering tool 1000 to another object. In one embodiment, holes 1080 may be added to the movable assembly 1030 or to the movable platform 1020 thereof to allow users to attach extensions or other customized additions to meet their specific requirements. In one embodiment, the handle on the release actuator 1010 could be extendable to provide additional leverage when lifting the movable assembly. For example, an outer handle 1010a may be displaceable relative to an inner handle 1010b, with the two handles interlocking but selectively released by a handle actuator 1010c.

[0031] One embodiment of the movable arrangement 1030 is shown in Fig. Figure 11 shows a cross-sectional view inside the housing 1050. As shown, the release actuator 1010 and the release actuator 1060 are depicted as they are housed within the housing 1050. As shown, the engagement of the release actuator 1010, which alternatively causes both the raising and the lowering of the movable assembly 1030, can be understood as the engagement between the release actuator 1010 and an internal lowering actuator 1090, and between the release actuator 1010 and the lifting plates 1100, or between the internal lowering actuator 1090 and the locking plates 1110 and / or the retaining plate 1120.

[0032] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 12, when the trigger 1010 is raised to actuate the lowering of the movable assembly 1030, a connecting element of the lowering mechanism 1130 between the trigger actuator 1010 and the lowering actuator 1090 is also raised. This causes the lowering actuator 1090 to rotate and push a cam / contact point 1140 down onto the locking plates 1110 and slightly raise the retaining plate 1120. This allows the locking plates 1110 to be pushed down, with the rod 1040 incrementally lowering the movable assembly 1030, while the retaining plate 1120 is raised to engage the rod 1120 and prevent complete release of the load.

[0033] Fig. Figure 13 shows an embodiment of the actuation of the release actuator 1060 of the lifting and lowering tool 1000. As shown, pressing down on the release actuator 1060 releases the retaining plate 1120 and the locking plates 1110 from the rod 1040, thereby allowing free movement of the movable assembly 1050 along the rod 1040. It is understood that gravity would pull the movable assembly 1030 down the rod 1040 under load or without assistance from a user.

[0034] The Fig. Figures 14-17C show another embodiment of a lifting and lowering tool, namely the lifting and lowering tool 1500. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 14, the lifting and lowering tool 1500 comprises a foot 1510 fixedly mounted to a rod 1520. It should be noted that the foot 1510 and the rod 1520 may generally be the same as the rod 110 and the rod 120 described herein, or may resemble the foot 510 and the rod 520, or the foot 1070 and the rod 1040, or combinations thereof. A movable assembly 1530 may be movably mounted on the rod 1520 and comprises a movable platform 1540 that can be received between the toes 1550 of the foot 1510.

[0035] Fig. Figure 15 shows another perspective view of the tool 1500, wherein a housing 1560 of the movable arrangement 1530 is a cover part 1560a (see Fig. 14) which has been removed to show the interior. As shown, a lifting actuator 1570, such as a lever, can extend away from the housing 1560 and be actuated against a handle 1580 which is attached to or formed with the housing 1560. In the embodiment shown, the lifting actuator 1570 is configured to be pushed downwards to lift the movable platform 1540. It should be noted that such a configuration can allow a user to use their body weight, either by a hand or even a foot, to assist in lifting a load on the movable platform 1540. As shown in Fig. As further shown in Figure 15, the tool 1500 comprises a lowering actuator 1590, such as another lever, and a release actuator 1600, which may be an actuator button as shown, or another lever, as can be seen from the other embodiments described herein.

[0036] It should be noted that the lifting actuator 1570 acts on lifting plates 1670 and thereby incrementally raises the movable platform 1540 along the rod 1520, similar to other embodiments described herein, although the lifting plates 1670 are angled and strike against the housing 1560, so that a downward movement of the lifting actuator 1570 towards the base 1510 raises the movable arrangement 1530 away from the base 1510. A spring 1675 is mounted between the lifting plates 1670 and the housing 1560 and serves as a return spring for the lifting actuator 1570 and facilitates the incremental movement of the lifting plates 1670.

[0037] As described in more detail below, the lowering actuator 1590 and the release actuator 1600 can engage with locking plates 1680. As shown, the locking plates 1680 comprise ends 1680a that extend into an opening 1540a formed on an extension 1540b of the movable platform 1540, which is attached to the housing 1560. This can be considered similar to the configuration of the locking plates 280 with respect to the movable platform 140 of the tool 100, although in the opposite position to the engagement with the rod 1520, as shown. Therefore, it should be noted that with such a connection, the movable platform 1540 and the housing 1560 maintain pressure on the locking plates 1680.

[0038] The features of the lowering actuator 1590, the release actuator 1600 and their operation can be described with reference to Fig. 16 and the Fig. 17A - C will be clarified. In particular, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 16, a lowering actuator cam 1690 is actuated by movement of the lowering actuator 1590 and presses against the locking plates 1680, thereby moving the locking plates 1680 and the rod 1520 relative to a retaining plate 1730 to lower the movable assembly 1530 in a controlled manner towards the foot 1510 (in the illustrated embodiment, this can be done in increments of approximately 3 mm). The locking plates 1680 can be spring-loaded against a part of the housing 1560 by a spring 1700. In one embodiment, this in turn can spring-load the lowering actuator 1590, while in other embodiments, such as the one shown, a torsion spring (e.g., the torsion spring 1760 described below) on the lowering actuator 1590 can bias the lowering actuator 1590 into an unactuated position.The spring 1700 between the locking plates 1680 and the housing 1560 prevents unintentional lowering of the load until it is moved incrementally by the lowering actuator 1590 or released by the release actuator 1600. While in some embodiments the lowering actuator 1590 and the lowering actuator cam 1690 may be pivotably mounted on the housing 1560, in the embodiment shown the lowering actuator 1590 is connected to the release actuator 1600, which is supported by the housing 1560, as described below. As shown, the release actuator 1600 can actuate a release actuator cam 1720, causing both the retaining plate 1730 and the locking plates 1680 to detach from the rod 1520 and allowing free movement of the movable assembly 1530 along the rod 1520, thereby completely releasing a load carried on the movable platform 1540.It should be noted that a spring 1740 between the retaining plate 1730 and the housing 1560 biases the retaining plate 1730 and the locking plates 1680 to allow the movable assembly 1530 to move along the rod 1520 towards the foot 1510 and to hold the movable assembly 1530 in an elevated position on the rod 1520.

[0039] The operation of the lowering actuator 1590, the release actuator 1600, the locking plates 1680 and the retaining plate 1730 may be easier to understand by referring to the Fig. 17A - 17C understand the cross-sectional views that bisect a partial arrangement of these components. Fig. Figure 17A shows the subassembly in its resting state, as if it were holding the rod 1520 in place to prevent movement of the movable assembly 1530 relative to the rod 1520. As shown, the release actuator cam 1720 can pass through an opening 1750 in the lowering actuator 1590, so that the lowering actuator 1590 can be actuated without actuating the release actuator cam 1720.

[0040] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 17B, pulling or otherwise rotating the lowering actuator 1590 causes the lowering actuator cam 1690 to press against the locking plates 1680, thereby pulling the rod 1520 upward and moving the movable assembly 1530 downward toward the foot 1510. Because the retaining plate 1730 remains engaged with the rod 1520, the movement is limited to the increment mentioned above. It should be noted that in one embodiment, a spring 1760 (e.g., a torsion spring in the embodiment shown, configured to press against the housing 1560 and a recess in the lowering actuator 1590) can return the lowering actuator 1590 to its unactuated position.

[0041] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 17C, the release actuator cam 1720 can be shaped such that it engages with both the retaining plate 1730 and the countersink plates 1680 in such a way that actuating, or in the illustrated embodiment pressing, the release actuator 1700 pushes the release actuator cam 1720 downwards, which presses against the retaining plates 1680. Due to the engagement between the retaining plate 1730, the release lever cam 1720, and the opening 1750 in the release actuator cam 1590, both the retaining plate 1730 and the countersink plates 1680 are released from the rod 1520, allowing the movable assembly 1530 to move freely along the rod 1520 without being restricted to incremental movement. It should be noted that in one embodiment a spring 1770 (e.g.,a torsion spring in the embodiment shown, which is configured to press against the housing 1560 and a recess in the release actuator 1600) can return the release actuator 1600 and the release actuator cam 1720 to their unactuated positions.

[0042] Fig. Figure 18 shows a side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a lifting and lowering tool 2000 and shows the internal mechanism in the housing 210 of another embodiment, in which a lowering release 2020, configured for actuation by a user's thumb, is connected to the lowering plate 2030 by a connecting link 2040 or other linkage. Pressing down on the lowering release 2020 raises an inner end of the release 2020 by rotating the release 2020 about a pivot point 2050, causing the lowering plate 2030 to rotate about a pin connection 2060 with the retaining plate 2070. As the lowering plate 2030 rotates, the locking plates 2080 are pressed downwards. The incremental lowering position is in Fig. 19 shown.

[0043] As shown in a front or rear cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a lifting and lowering tool 2100 in Fig. As shown in Figure 20, in some embodiments a push-button mechanism can be configured to provide complete release of the lifting operation. In such an embodiment, one or more push buttons 2110 can be housed in the housing 2120 and the cover 2130. In one embodiment, a pin 2140 is used to maintain the alignment of the buttons 2110. A spring 2150 can, as shown, return the buttons 2110 to their released position when they are released. As shown, pressing the one or more buttons 2110 inward can cause the cam surfaces 2160 to press against an upper surface of the countersink plate 2170 in the area directly above a pin 2180 that connects the countersink plate 2170 to the retaining plate 2190.As the cam surfaces 2160 advance, the countersunk plate 2170, the retaining plate 2190, and the locking tabs 2200 can be pressed downwards until they release from the rod 2210, allowing the movable assembly to move freely up and down on the rod. The released position for the embodiment in . Fig. 20 is in Fig. 21 shown.

[0044] Fig. Figure 22 shows an alternative mechanism for providing the incremental lowering function, as implemented in an embodiment of a lifting and lowering tool 2300. The lowering release 2310 can be activated by a user pressing it down. In the illustrated embodiment, a lowering release cam surface 2320 contacts the lowering lever 2330, causing it to pivot downward about the lever's pivot point 2340. A cam surface 2350 on the lowering lever pushes the locking tabs 2360 downward. The incremental lowering position for the embodiment in Fig. 22 will be in Fig. 23 illustrated.

[0045] Fig. Figure 24 shows another side cross-sectional view of an internal mechanism of an embodiment of a lifting and lowering tool 2400 inside its housing 2410 and an alternative mechanism for providing the incremental lowering function. As illustrated, a lowering release 2420 is connected to the lowering plate 2430 by a connecting link 2440. When a user pushes the lowering release 2420 toward the rod 2450 (e.g., by rotating it about a pivot pin 2460), the movement lifts the outer end of the release 2420 and, via the connecting link 2440, the outer end of the lowering plate 2430. This movement causes the lowering plate 2430 to rotate about a pin connection 2470 with a retaining plate 2480. As the lowering plate rotates, the locking tabs 2490 are pressed downward. The incremental lowering position for the embodiment shown in Figure 2410 is then determined by the movement of the lowering release 2420 toward the rod 2450 (e.g., by rotating it about a pivot pin 2460). Fig. 24 is in Fig. 25 shown.

[0046] Finally, it shows Fig. 26 An embodiment of a coupler 2500 between a support extension 2510 (e.g., a spreader or a clamp, including a spreader configuration for a rod clamp, as shown) and an embodiment of a lifting and lowering tool 2520, which is similar to or comparable with the embodiments disclosed above. It is understood that the lifting and lowering tool 2520 can couple to the support extension 2510 via the coupler 2500, which connects the movement of the movable arrangement to the support extension 2510. In the embodiment from Fig. 26 The coupler 2500 can be a rod coupler configured as a sleeve that engages with a housing 2530 of the lifting and lowering tool 2520, and accordingly, the movement of the movable arrangement 2540, which supports the housing 2530, pushes the rod coupler 2500 (and the associated support extension 2510) along the rod 2550 of the lifting and lowering tool 2520. In one embodiment, a rod 2510a of the support extension 2510 can be located next to the rod 2550 of the lifting and lowering tool 2520 when the coupler 2500 supports the support extension 2510 on the movable arrangement 2530 of the lifting and lowering tool 2520. For example, in the embodiment shown, the rod 2550 can extend behind the rod 2510a of the support extension 2510 (and be hidden from view by it).It should be noted that the support extension 2510 can be considered part of a movable platform 2570 of the movable arrangement 2540 and that in various embodiments it could be assumed that the movable platform 2570 or the movable arrangement 2540 extends beyond the rod 2550 away from a foot 2555 of the lifting and lowering tool 2520 when the movable arrangement 2540 is positioned adjacent to the foot 2555 (e.g. at a lowest lowering point of the movable arrangement 2540 along the rod 2550).

[0047] Similarly, as in Fig.Figure 27 shows a movable platform coupler 2560 sliding on or otherwise attached to the movable platform 2570 of the lifting and lowering tool 2520, and accordingly, the movement of the movable arrangement 2540 raises or lowers the support extension 2510 similarly. Such configurations can be useful for raising and lowering larger objects, such as cabinets, which can be secured by a spreading or clamping configuration of the support extension 2510 in a manner that balances the cabinets with respect to the lifting and lowering tool. The cabinets can be secured via the spreading or clamping configuration of such a support extension 2510 (e.g., spreading inside the cabinets or clamping them to a surface).

[0048] In the various embodiments disclosed herein, it should be noted that a spaced arrangement separating the lowering actuators and their release actuators, and / or an ergonomic engagement of the release actuator that differs from the ergonomic engagement of the lowering actuator, can prevent unintentional use of the release actuator that could cause a load to fall onto a moving platform, potentially resulting in damage to the load or injury to a user. For example, if the lowering actuator is a lever, the release actuator could be a push button. Other arrangements that facilitate such a configuration are also conceivable. For example, if a lifting actuator and / or the lowering actuator is activated by the palm or index finger of a user, the release actuator can be shaped or positioned so that it can be operated by the user's thumb.In some such embodiments, one or more side buttons may be configured to fully release the load. In some of these embodiments, full release can be achieved by pressing one or more buttons into the housing, thereby releasing both the retaining and locking plates, allowing the housing assembly to move freely up and down the bar. In some embodiments, both pairs of buttons may need to be actuated to release the retaining and locking plates, or one pair of buttons may be redundant (e.g., only one button needs to be pressed), but both are designed for left- or right-handed operation. It should be noted that the requirement to press both buttons can increase safety and prevent accidental full release of the load.

[0049] In another embodiment, a safety interlock can be integrated into the lifting arm. When a load is placed on the movable platform, the interlock is pressed downwards against the platform. This activates a connection to the lowering actuator, limiting how far the actuator can be pushed, thus allowing only incremental lowering. Once the load has been removed by incremental lowering, the interlock and its connection to the lowering actuator are released, allowing the actuator to be pushed into full release mode, in which the housing assembly can move freely up and down the pole.

[0050] The subject matter, features, and properties of the present invention, as well as the functions and operation of the associated structural elements, the combination of parts, and the economics of manufacturing, can be seen from the description and drawings in this specification, all of which form part of this specification. In one embodiment of the invention, the structural components shown herein are drawn to scale. However, it should be expressly noted that the drawings serve only for illustrative and descriptive purposes and are not to be understood as defining the limits of the invention. Furthermore, it should be noted that the structural features shown or described in one embodiment may also be used in other embodiments. Where used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" also include the plural forms, unless the context clearly requires otherwise.

[0051] In various embodiments, the lifting and lowering tool described herein may be made of metal, plastic, ceramic, wood, or any other suitable material, or a combination of such materials. It should be noted that the components described herein may have different designs or configurations, including, but not limited to, one or more components being made of different materials. For example, the various components described herein may each be made of a variety of materials, including, but not limited to, one or more of the following: fabric, plastics, metals, rubber, elastomers, or any other suitable material selection, such as aluminum (e.g., machined aluminum), iron (e.g., steel), ceramic, or any other suitable material.Furthermore, parts of tools utilizing the aforementioned principles may be made of molded plastic, metal, or combinations thereof (e.g., plastic with metal supports or fasteners that couple parts together). In some embodiments, structural and functional components may be formed of metal or hard plastic, while the outermost grip components, positioned to engage the palm of a gripping hand to provide a comfortable gripping surface, may be made of a suitable molded plastic or elastomer material. More generally, a suitable molded plastic material may be composed of two materials coated with a layer of an elastomer, such as a rubber-based material. In some embodiments, the material selection may vary from component to component.In various embodiments, some components may be integrally formed together, while other components may be assembled by any suitable mechanism, including but not limited to fastenings, welding, snap connections, friction connections, adhesive connections or other suitable securing devices.

[0052] Although the invention has been described in detail for the purpose of illustration with reference to embodiments currently considered practical and preferred, it should be noted that these details serve exclusively this purpose and that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but rather includes modifications and equivalent arrangements which are within the scope and meaning of the invention as further explained in connection with the preceding disclosure.

[0053] The following embodiments are also the subject of the present invention: Embodiment 1: Lifting and lowering tool comprising: a foot that is configured to be supported on a surface; a pole extending from the foot; and a movable arrangement, comprising: a case; a movable platform shaped in such a way that it can bear a load, the movable platform extending from the housing and being connected to the housing via a flange; a lifting actuator configured to move the movable assembly stepwise away from the foot along the pole; a lowering actuator configured to move the movable assembly stepwise along the pole towards the foot; and a release actuator configured to release the movable assembly from the pole to allow free movement of the movable assembly along the pole; wherein the movable arrangement is engaged with the rod via locking plates, which can be selectively released from the rod by actuating the lowering actuator; and the locking plates extend through the flange. Embodiment 2: Lifting and lowering tool according to embodiment 1, wherein the release actuator is spaced apart from the lifting actuator and the lowering actuator to prevent accidental actuation of the release actuator. Embodiment 3: Lifting and lowering tool according to embodiment 1, wherein the release actuator is positioned on a different side of the housing than the lowering actuator. Embodiment 4: Lifting and lowering tool according to embodiment 1, wherein the release actuator is separated from the lowering actuator by a part of the housing. Embodiment 5: Lifting and lowering tool according to embodiment 1, wherein the release actuator has a button and the lowering actuator has a lever arm. Embodiment 6: Lifting and lowering tool according to embodiment 1, wherein the lifting actuator is pressed towards the foot to lift the movable arrangement. Embodiment 7: Lifting and lowering tool according to embodiment 6, wherein the structure of the housing above the lifting actuator is omitted in an area opposite the foot. Embodiment 8: Lifting and lowering tool according to embodiment 1, wherein the lifting actuator and the lowering actuator are coupled to a common release actuator and wherein a movement of the release actuator in a first direction actuates the lifting actuator, while a movement of the release actuator in a second direction actuates the lowering actuator. Embodiment 9. Lifting and lowering tool comprising: a foot that is configured to be supported on a surface; a pole extending from the foot; and a movable arrangement, comprising: a case; a movable platform shaped in such a way that it can bear a load; a lifting actuator configured to move the movable assembly stepwise away from the foot along the pole; a lowering actuator configured to move the movable assembly stepwise along the pole towards the foot; and a release actuator configured to release the movable assembly from the pole to allow free movement of the movable assembly along the pole; wherein the release actuator is spaced apart from the lifting actuator and the lowering actuator to prevent unintentional activation of the release actuator. Embodiment 10: Lifting and lowering tool according to embodiment 9, wherein the release actuator is positioned on a different side of the housing than the lowering actuator. Embodiment 11: Lifting and lowering tool according to embodiment 9, wherein the release actuator is separated from the lowering actuator by a part of the housing. Embodiment 12: Lifting and lowering tool according to embodiment 9, wherein the lifting actuator and the lowering actuator are coupled to a common release actuator and wherein a movement of the release actuator in a first direction actuates the lifting actuator, while a movement of the release actuator in a second direction actuates the lowering actuator. Embodiment 13: Lifting and lowering tool according to embodiment 9, wherein the movable platform is connected to the housing via a flange; the movable arrangement engages with the rod via locking plates, which can be selectively released from the rod by actuating the lowering actuator; and the locking plates extend through the flange. Embodiment 14: Lifting and lowering tool according to embodiment 9, wherein the lifting actuator is pressed towards the foot to lift the movable arrangement. Embodiment 15: Lifting and lowering tool according to embodiment 14, wherein the structure of the housing above the lifting actuator is omitted in an area opposite the foot. Embodiment 16: Lifting and lowering tool according to embodiment 9, wherein the release actuator has a button and the lowering actuator has a lever arm. Embodiment 17: Lifting and lowering tool according to embodiment 9, wherein the movable platform extends over the rod away from the foot when the movable arrangement is adjacent to the foot. Embodiment 18: Lifting and lowering tool according to embodiment 17, wherein the movable platform has a spreader or a clamp. Embodiment 19: Lifting and lowering tool according to embodiment 9, wherein the movable platform extends from the housing and includes a flange extending from the movable platform and surrounding the rod. Embodiment 20: Lifting and lowering tool comprising: a foot that is configured to be supported on a surface; a pole extending from the base; and a movable arrangement, comprising: a case; a movable platform shaped to be able to bear a load, the movable platform extending from the housing and comprising a flange extending from the movable platform and surrounding the rod; a lifting actuator configured to move the movable assembly stepwise away from the foot along the pole; a lowering actuator configured to move the movable assembly stepwise along the rod towards the foot; and a release actuator configured to release the movable assembly from the rod to allow free movement of the movable assemblies along the rod. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 63 / 271,632

[0001]

Claims

[1] Lifting and lowering tool comprising: a foot (1510) configured to be supported on a surface; a pole (1520) extending from the foot; and a movable arrangement (1530) which is arranged to move along the rod (1520), wherein the movable arrangement (1530) comprises a movable platform (1540), wherein the movable arrangement (1530) comprises: a lifting actuator (1570) configured to move the movable arrangement stepwise away from the foot along the rod in order to raise and move the movable arrangement (1530) relative to the foot, the lifting actuator comprising a plurality of lifting plates (1670) that can be selectively engaged with the rod; a release actuator (1600) configured to release the movable assembly from the rod to allow free movement of the movable assembly along the rod; a lowering actuator (1590) configured to move the movable arrangement stepwise along the rod towards the foot in order to lower the movable arrangement (1530) relative to the foot, the lowering actuator comprising a plurality of locking plates (1680) that can be selectively released from the rod; where the lifting and lowering tool characterized by is that the lifting actuator (1570), which is designed as a lever, extends from the housing (1560); The lifting and lowering tool further comprises a handle (1580) which is formed with or attached to the housing (1560), wherein the lifting actuator is configured so that it can be pushed downwards towards the handle in order to move the movable arrangement away from the foot. [2] Lifting and lowering tool according to claim 1, wherein the lifting actuator is configured so that it can be pressed downwards towards the handle either by manual actuation or by foot actuation. [3] Lifting and lowering tool according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the release actuator is spaced apart from both the lifting actuator and the lowering actuator to prevent unintentional actuation of the release actuator. [4] Lifting and lowering tool according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the handle, the lifting actuator, the lowering actuator and the release actuator are all arranged in a line along the movable assembly. [5] Lifting and lowering tool according to claim 4, wherein the arrangement is formed along a line along the movable arrangement along the rod (1520). [6] Lifting and lowering tool according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the lifting actuator and the handle are aligned opposite each other. [7] Lifting and lowering tool according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the lifting actuator extends from the housing and is actuated against the handle.

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