A load moving apparatus

Abstract

A load moving apparatus including: at least one ground engaging wheel for moving the apparatus along a ground surface, said at least one wheel rotatably mounted to an axle; a body connected to the axl

Description

FIELD Embodiments of the present invention relate to a load moving apparatus. More particularly, this invention relates to a load moving apparatus having a connection device for connecting a load to be moved to the load moving apparatus. BACKGROUND Load moving apparatus are used to assist a user with moving large or heavy goods. Such apparatus typically include a ground engaging wheel, or set of wheels, which may or may not be connected to a source of power. To move a load, such apparatus are typically configured to engage with a load such that the load may be pushed or pulled. Embodiments of the present invention seek to alleviate one or more problems associated with the prior art. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION According to a first aspect of the invention we provide a load moving apparatus including: at least one ground engaging wheel for moving the apparatus along a ground surface, said at least one wheel rotatably mounted to an axle; a body connected to the axle; a handle assembly connected to the body; a connection device for connecting a load to be moved to the load moving apparatus, the connection device being connected to the body, said connection device including, a first engagement member having a first engagement surface for engaging with a first portion of a part of the load and a second engagement having a second engagement surface for engaging with a second portion of a part of the load, wherein the first engagement surface is positioned above the second engagement surface, and wherein the second engagement member is movable towards and away from the first engagement member. The second engagement member may be pivotably movable. The second engagement member may be movable between a first position and a second position, wherein the second engagement member may move towards the first engagement member when moving from the first position to the second position, and the second engagement member may be movable to an intermediate position in between the first position and second position. The second engagement member may have a length, and the length of the second engagement member may be adjustable such that the size of the second engagement surface is adjustable. A portion of the second engagement member remote from the body of the apparatus may extend generally upwardly away from the ground surface, said portion may include a third engagement surface for engaging with a further portion of a part of the load. The connection device may include a fourth engagement surface for engaging with a further portion of a part of the load, and at least a portion of the fourth engagement surface may extend between the first and second engagement surfaces. At least a portion of the fourth engagement surface may be generally planar, and / or at least a portion of the fourth engagement surface may be generally curved. When the second engagement member is in the second position, at least a portion of the fourth engagement surface which, in use, may be engageable with the further portion of the part of the load, may be generally planar. A portion of the second engagement member remote from the body may include a third engagement surface for engaging with a further portion of a part of the load, and when the second engagement member is in the first position, the third and fourth engagement surfaces may be separated by a first distance D1, and when the second engagement member is in the second position the third and fourth engagement surfaces may separated by a second distance D2, and the first distance D1 may be greater than the second distance D2. The connection device may include a body portion, and the second engagement member may be movably connected to the body portion. The first engagement member may be movably connected to the body portion, such that its position relative to the body portion may be adjusted, or the first engagement member may be integrally formed with the body portion. The connection device may further include an actuator assembly drivingly connected to the second engagement member, the actuator assembly operable to move the second engagement member between the first and second positions. The actuator assembly may include a linear actuator connected to a driving member, the linear actuator operable to move the driving member between a first position and a second position. The connection device may further include a first guide slot extending in a direction which is generally parallel to the direction of motion of the driving member, and a part of the driving member may be positioned within the first guide slot. The guide slot may be positioned on the body portion, the second engagement member may be pivotably connected to the body portion, and the driving member may be connected to the second engagement member, and the second engagement member may include a second guide slot extending in a direction transverse to the first guide slot, and a part of the driving member may be positioned within the second guide slot. The connection device may include a pair of first engagement members and a pair of second engagement members, and the respective pairs may be positioned next to each other and generally parallel to the ground surface. The connection device may pivotably connected to the body of the apparatus, the connection device being pivotably movable relative to the body about a substantially vertical axis V. The connection device may have an unlocked condition in which the second engagement member is in the first position and a locked condition in which the second engagement member is in the second position, and, in use, in the locked condition the first engagement surface may be engaged with a first, uppermost surface of a part of a load to be moved, and the second engagement surface may be engaged with a second, lowermost surface of a part of the load to be moved. The connection device may have an intermediate condition in which the second engagement member is in the intermediate position, and, in use, in the intermediate condition the second engagement surface may be engaged with the second, lowermost surface of a part of a load to be moved, and the first engagement surface may be separated by a distance D5 from the first, uppermost surface of a part of a load to be moved. When the connection device is in the locked condition, the third engagement surface may be engaged with a third surface of a part of the load to be moved which generally faces away from the body of the load moving apparatus, and the fourth engagement surface may be engaged with a fourth surface of a part of the load to be moved which generally faces the body of the load moving apparatus. In use, the body of the apparatus may pivot about the wheel axle towards the load to be moved as the connection device transitions from the unlocked condition to the locked condition. lin use, when the connection device is in the unlocked condition, the first and second engagement surfaces may be separated by a distance D3 which is greater than the distance D4 between the uppermost and lowermost surfaces of the part of the load to be moved. According to a second aspect of the invention we provide a load moving apparatus including: at least one ground engaging wheel for moving the apparatus along a ground surface, said at least one wheel rotatably mounted to an axle; a body connected to the axle; a handle assembly connected to the body; a connection device for connecting a load to be moved to the load moving apparatus, the connection device being connected to the body, said connection device including, a first engagement member having a first engagement surface for engaging with a first portion of a part of the load and a second engagement for engaging with a second portion of a part of the load having a second engagement surface, the second engagement member being movable towards and away from the first engagement member, wherein the connection device has an unlocked condition and a locked condition, and wherein, in use, in the locked condition the first engagement surface engages with the first portion of the part of a load to be moved, and the second engagement surface engages the second portion of the part of the load to be moved, and wherein, in use, the body of the apparatus pivots about the wheel axle towards load to be moved as the connection device transitions from the unlocked condition to the locked condition. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES In order that the present disclosure may be more readily understood, preferable embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of a load moving apparatus in accordance with the present disclosure; FIGURE 2 is a perspective view of the connection device of the apparatus of Figure 1; FIGURE 3 is a plan view of the connection device of the apparatus of Figure 1; FIGURE 4a is a side view of the connection device of the apparatus of Figure 1, in an unlocked condition; FIGURE 4b is a plan view of the connection device of the apparatus of Figure 1, in an intermediate condition; FIGURE 4b is a plan view of the connection device of the apparatus of Figure 1, in locked condition; FIGURE 5a is a side view of a part of the apparatus of Figure 1, in an unlocked condition; FIGURE 5b is a side view of a part of the apparatus of Figure 1, in an locked condition; FIGURE 5c is a side view of a part of the apparatus of Figure 1, in an intermediate condition; FIGURE 5d is a side view of a part of the apparatus of Figure 1, transitioning from an intermediate condition to a locked condition; FIGURE 6a is a side view of the apparatus of Figure 1, in an unlocked condition approaching a load to be moved; FIGURE 6b is a side view of the apparatus of Figure 1, in an unlocked condition with a part of the load to be moved positioned between first and second engagement surfaces; FIGURE 6c is a side view of the apparatus of Figure 1, in an intermediate condition; FIGURE 6d is a side view of the apparatus of Figure 1, transitioning from an intermediate condition to a locked condition; FIGURE 6e is a side view of the apparatus of Figure 1, in a locked condition; FIGURE 7 a is a rear perspective view of the connection device of the apparatus of Figure 1, in an unlocked condition; FIGURE 7b is a rear perspective view of the connection device of the apparatus of Figure 1, in an unlocked condition; FIGURE 7c is a rear perspective view of the connection device of the apparatus of Figure 1, in an unlocked condition; FIGURE 8 is a side cross-sectional view of a part of a load to be moved by the apparatus of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE Referring to the Figures there is provided a load moving apparatus 10 in accordance with the present disclosure. The load moving apparatus 10 includes a body 12, at least one ground engaging wheel 14 which is rotatably mounted to an axle 15, and a handle assembly 60 connected to the body 12. The load moving apparatus 10 also includes a connection device 20 for connecting a load to be moved 1000 to the load moving apparatus 10, as explained in more detail below. Throughout the foregoing description, it should be understood that terms such as vertical and horizontal refer to relative orientations with respect to the ground surface upon which the apparatus 10 operates. The body 12 may include a front end 12a and a rear end 12b and may also include a first lateral side 122 and a second lateral side 124. The body 12 may intersected by a substantially vertical plane X, which extends in a direction generally between the front end 12a and rear end 12b and is positioned between the first lateral side 122 and the second lateral side 124. In other words, the first lateral side 122 may be located on one side of the plane X, and the second lateral side 124 may be located on the other side of the plane X. In some embodiments, the body 12 may be generally symmetrical about the plane X. As shown in Figure 1, a body axis A may lie on the plane X and may extend generally between the front end 12a and rear end 12b of the body 12. In embodiments, the body axis A may be inclined relative to a ground surface when the apparatus 10 is in use. The body 12 is connected to an axle 15, or at least one axle 15. In embodiments, the body 12 may be permanently connected to the axle 15, such that their relative position is fixed and non-adjustable. In other embodiments, the connection between the body 12 and the axle 15 may be such that a user may adjust the relative position of them, so they may adapt the apparatus 10 for different load moving scenarios and applications. It should be understood that in many scenarios and applications, it is preferable that whilst the apparatus 10 is being used to move a load that the body 12 and axle 15 remain fixed relative to each other. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the axle 15 connected to the body 12 is connected to at least one ground engaging wheel 14, such that the ground engaging wheel 14 is rotatably mounted to the axle 15 and is able to rotate about a substantially horizontal axis of rotation R. In use of the apparatus 10, the ground engaging wheel 14 assists in moving the apparatus along a ground surface and may at least partially support the apparatus 10. The at least one ground engaging wheel 14 may be positioned at or close to the front end 12a of the body 12. In embodiments, the at least one ground engaging wheel 14 may a driven wheel. The at least one ground engaging wheel 14 may be drivingly connected to a drive assembly 16. In embodiments, the drive assembly 15 may include an electric motor, or any other suitable motor or engine powered by any suitable power source, and may further include a transmission device such as a gear box which is operably connected to the motor and to the at least one ground engaging wheel 14. The apparatus 10 includes a handle assembly 60 which is connected to the body 12. In embodiments, the handle assembly 60 is connected to the body 12 at or near the rear end 12b, and extends in a generally vertical direction, generally away from the ground surface. As such, handle assembly 60 is positioned so that it is accessible to the user of the apparatus 10. The handle assembly 60 may include one or more user graspable portions 62, and may also include a control assembly 64 which enables the user to control various aspects of the apparatus 10. In embodiments, the apparatus 10 may include a castor wheel assembly 70 which includes at least one ground engageable caster wheel 72, which may assist in supporting the body 12 and preventing it from tilting backwards. The castor wheel assembly 70 may also include a castor connecting member 74 which connected the castor wheel assembly 70 to the body 12 of the apparatus 10. In some embodiments, the castor connecting member 74 may be rigidly connected to the body 12, such that the rotational position of the castor wheel assembly relative to the body 12 is fixed. In other embodiments, the castor connecting member 74 may allow for limited movement of the castor arm assembly 60 relative to the body 12, and it may be resiliently biased towards a datum or neutral position. With reference to the Figures, the load moving apparatus 10 further includes a connection device 20. In use of the apparatus 10, the connection device 20 is used to connect a load to be moved 1000 by the load moving apparatus 10. The connection device 20 is connected to the body 12. In embodiments, the connection device 20 may be generally pivotable or rotatable about a generally vertical axis V, such that the connection device 20 may be pivoted or rotated relative to the body 12. In some embodiments, the connection device 20 may be connected to the to the body 12 such that the vertical position of the device 20 relative to the body 12 and / or relative to the ground surface may be adjusted. The connection device 20 may be connected to the body 12 by a connecting member 200, which may be configured to enable the connective device 20 to be pivoted or rotated relative to the body 12, and / or allow the vertical position of the connection device 20 relative to the body 12 and / or relative to the ground surface to be adjusted. Typically, the load to be moved 1000 may include a part 100 for which a load moving apparatus 10 may be connected to, such that the apparatus 10 may assist in moving the load 1000. Hereinafter, the part 100 may be referred to as a part of the load to be moved 100, or a part of the load 100, or a part 100. In general, the part of the load to be moved 100 may be provided as a part which is fixed or connected to the exterior of the load 1000. Though this part 100 may assume many different forms, a common configuration is that the part 100 may include a generally elongate component or member which extends in a linear direction, and it may be generally parallel with the ground surface, and generally parallel with a surface of the load to be moved 1000. This elongate component or member may be a portion of box section or extruded, or otherwise formed, steel, aluminium, plastic, or other appropriate material, which has a generally hollow centre, or it may be provided as a solid extruded, or otherwise formed, rod or bar of steel, aluminium, plastic, or other appropriate material. Such parts 100 are typically positioned above a ground surface, such that the underside of the part 100 may be accessible. The part 100 may also include a structure that enables it to be connected to the load to be moved 1000, such that a side of the part 100 which faces the load 1000 may also be accessible. Figure 8 shows a part of a load to be moved 100 which may be used with embodiments of the apparatus 100. The part of the load 100, to which the connection device 10 may be generally connected to, has generally a uniform cross-sectional profile. As shown in Figure 8, the part of the load 100 may include a first portion 110, a second portion 120, a further portion 130, and a further portion 140. Each portion 110, 120, 130, 140 includes a surface, which in this instance is an exterior surface of the part of the load 100. The first portion 110 includes a first, uppermost surface 111, which generally faces upwardly and away from the ground surface. The second portion 120 includes a second, lowermost surface 122, which generally faces downwardly and towards the ground surface. The further portion 130 includes a third surface 133, which generally faces towards the remainder of the load to be moved 1000, and in use, generally away from the body 12 of the apparatus 10. The further portion 140 includes a fourth surface 144, which generally faces away from the load to be moved 1000, and in use, generally towards the body 12 of the apparatus 10. Each of these surfaces 111, 122, 133, 144 may be engaged by an engagement surface of the connection device 20, as explained in more detail below. In Figure 8, the cross-sectional profile of the part 100 is generally rectangular / quadrangular, wherein the first, uppermost surface 111 and second, lowermost surface 122 are generally parallel, and wherein the third surface 133 and fourth surface 144 are generally parallel. It should be understood that embodiments of the apparatus 10 may be used to move loads 1000 which have parts 100 which have different cross-sectional profiles, such as square, circular, elliptical, or polygonal profiles. The connection device 20 includes a first engagement member 21 and a second engagement member 22. The first engagement member 21 includes a first engagement surface 211, which in use of the apparatus 10, is used to engage with a first portion 110 of a part of the load to be moved 100 by the apparatus 10. In embodiments, the first portion 110 of a part 100 of the load to be moved 1000 may include an uppermost surface 111 of the part of the load 100. The second engagement member 22 includes a second engagement surface 222 which in use of the apparatus 10, is used to engage with a second portion 120 of a part of the load to be moved 100 by the apparatus 10. In embodiments, the second portion 120 of a part of the load to be moved 100 may include a lowermost surface 122 of the part of the load 100. In embodiments, the first and second engagement members 21, 22 may be formed as generally flat, plate-like components, or in some embodiments, the said members 21, 22 may each be formed of more than one flat, plate-like components. Of course, the first and second engagement members 21,22 may be formed in other ways as appropriate. As shown in Figure 1, the first and second engagement members 21, 22 extend in a direction generally away from the body 12, and a direction which is generally perpendicular to the wheel axle 15, generally perpendicular to the ground surface, and generally parallel with the at least one ground engaging wheel 14. In embodiments, the first and second engagement surfaces 211, 222 may be provided as a surface of the first and second engagement members 21,22 respectively, such that they are integrally formed as a part of the first and second engagement members 21, 22, and formed of the same material as the first and second engagement members 21,22. In other embodiments, the first and second engagements surfaces 211, 222 may be provided as a surface of an additional component of the connection device 20, for instance as a part which may be connected to the first and second engagement members 21, 22. For example, the first or second engagement surfaces 211, 222 may be formed a part of a component which can be temporarily connected to the respective first or second engagement member 21, 22 which may be formed of a material which is more resistant to wear, may be formed of a sacrificial material which can be replaced once it has been worn away sufficiently, or may be formed of a relatively softer material so as to not damage a part of the load to be moved 100. In other examples, the first and second engagement surfaces 211, 222 may be formed of materials which are food-safe or ESD-safe. The first and second engagement surfaces 211, 222 may be formed such that they generally conform to the shape of a portion of a part of the load to be moved 100. In embodiments, the first engagement surface 211 may be formed such that it generally conforms with the shape of a first portion 110 of a part of the load to be moved 100, which may provide an optimally sized contact area between said surface 211 and the first portion 110 of a part of the load to be moved 100. Likewise, the second engagement surface 222 may be formed such that it generally conforms with the shape of a second portion 120 of a part of the load to be moved 100, which may provide an optimally sized contact area between said surface 222 and the second portion 120 of a part of the load to be moved 100. For example, said surfaces 211,222 may be generally planar or flat, or may be provided as a curved or irregular surface which may be generally convex, concave, or may be formed as a surface having a combination of generally flat, convex and or concave portions. In other embodiments, the first and second engagement surfaces 211, 222 may not be formed to generally conform with the shape of a first and second portions 110, 120 of the part of the load to be moved 100, but nonetheless formed such that it, in use, they may still adequately engage the first and second portions 110, 120. As shown in Figure 4a, the first engagement surface 211 of the first engagement member 21 of the connection device 20 is positioned generally above the second engagement surface 222 of the second engagement member 22. In embodiments, the entirety, or a substantial part, of the first engagement member 21 may be positioned above the entirety, or a substantial part of, the second engagement member 22. In use of the apparatus 10, the second engagement member 22 is movable towards and away from the first engagement member 21, and may be movable between a first position, a second position, and an intermediate position. With reference to the Figures, when the second engagement member 22 is in the first position, it is positioned generally closer to the ground surface when compared to the second position. In the second position, the second engagement member 22 is positioned generally closer to the first engagement member 21 when compared to the first position. Therefore, it should be understood that as the second engagement member 22 moves from the first position to the second position, it is moved towards, or is drawn towards, the first engagement member 21. Inversely, when the second engagement member 22 moves from the second position to the first position, it is moved away from the first engagement member 21. The second engagement member 22 may also be movable to an intermediate position, which in general is any position of the second engagement member 22 which is between the first position and the second position. The first, second and intermediate positions of the second engagement member 22 in the context of using the connection device 20 to connect to a part of a load to be moved 100 are explained in more detail below. In embodiments, the second engagement member 22 may include a portion 23 which extends generally upwardly away from the ground surface. The portion 23 of the second engagement member 22 may be positioned at a first end 22a of the second engagement member 22 which is located remotely from the body 12 of the apparatus 10. The portion 23 of the second engagement member 22 includes a third engagement surface 233, which in use of the apparatus 10, is used to engage with a further portion 130 of a part of the load to be moved 100. In embodiment, the further portion 133 of a part of the load 100 to be moved may include a third surface 133 of the part of the load 100, which generally faces away from the body 12 of the apparatus during use of the apparatus 10. As shown in the Figures, the second engagement member 22 and the portion 23 of said member 22 may form a substantially hook-shaped or L-shaped component. The third engagement surface 233 may be formed such that it generally conforms to the shape of a further portion 130 of a part of the load to be moved 100. In embodiments, the third engagement surface 233 may be formed such that it generally conforms with the shape of a further portion 130 of a part of the load to be moved 100, which may provide an optimally sized contact area between said surface 233 and the further portion 130 of a part of the load to be moved 100. For example, said surface 233 may be generally planar or flat, or may be provided as a curved or irregular surface which may be generally convex, concave, or may be formed as a surface having a combination of generally flat, convex and or concave portions. In other embodiments, it may not be formed to generally conform with the shape of a further portion 130 of the part of the load to be moved 100, but nonetheless formed such that it, in use, it may still adequately engage the further portion 130. In embodiments, the second engagement member 22 has a length L, which may be the equivalent of the distance between the outer extremity of the first end 22a and a second end 22b, the second end 22b being closer to the body 12 of the apparatus 10 relative to the first end 22a. In some embodiments, the second engagement member 22 may be formed in two parts, or more than two parts. As shown in Figures 4a to 4c. the first engagement member 22 may be formed of a first part 31 and a second part 32. The first part 31 may be located towards the first end 22a, and the second part 32 may be located towards the second end 22b. The first part 31 and second part 32 may be connected to each other in a manner suitable that allows the length L of the second engagement member 22 to be adjusted, i.e., to allow the length L of the second engagement member to be increased and decreased as desired by the user. In embodiments, the first part 31 and second part 32 may each include a plurality of corresponding apertures 34 which, each of which are configured to receive a fastening element 36, such as a threaded bolt. A plurality of apertures 34 may enable the length L to be adjusted between a variety of preset lengths. In use, the user may position the first part 31 and second part 32 relative to each other with the corresponding apertures 34 overlapping, and in such a way that the overall length L of the second engagement member 22 is at the desired preset length. Following this, the user may pass a fastening element 36 through the desired overlapping apertures 34 and secure the fastening element 36 with a nut or other suitable device. The user may utilise two or more apertures 34, as shown in the Figures, to prevent the first part 31 and second part 32 from rotating relative to each other, i.e., so that their alignment is maintained during use. In other embodiments, other suitable means of adjusting the length of the second engagement member 22 may be used, as would be understood by the skilled person. The adjustment of the length L enables the size, e.g., the length of, the area of, etc., of the second engagement surface 222 to be adjusted. Advantageously, this enables the second engagement member 22 to be adjusted to allow different size parts of a load to be moved to be connected to the connection device 20. In embodiments, the first and second engagement members 21, 22 are mounted to, or otherwise connected to, a body portion 24 of the connection device 20. The body portion 24 may include, or be formed as, a generally flat, plate-like component. In some embodiments, the first engagement member 21 may be connected to the body portion 24 such that its position on, or in other words, relative to, the body portion 24 is adjustable. In embodiments, this may enable the position of the first engagement member 21 to be adjusted in a substantially vertical direction, and in other embodiments it may also include the ability to adjust the position of the first engagement member 21 in a substantially horizontal direction. Said adjustability of the first engagement member 21 enables its position relative to the ground surface to be adjusted and enables its position relative to the second engagement member 22 to be adjusted. Similar to the first part 31 and second part 32 of the second adjustment member 22, the first engagement member 21 may be connected to the body portion 24 by a plurality of corresponding apertures 34 provided on the first engagement member 21 and the body portion 24, each of which may be configured to receive a fastening element 36, such as a threaded bolt. In other embodiments, the first engagement member 21 may be integrally formed as part of the body element 24 and may be formed as a part of the body element 24 which generally protrudes from the periphery of the body element 24. In embodiments, the second engagement member 22 may be connected to the body portion 24 such that it is movable relative to the body portion 24. As shown in the Figures, the second engagement member 22 may be pivotably connected to the body portion 24. However, it should be understood that in other embodiments the second engagement member 22 may be connected to the body portion 24 such that it may translate in a linear direction, or along curvilinear path, or may be connected such that it may both pivot and translate in a linear direction or along a curvilinear path. In embodiments, and as shown in the Figures, a pivotable connection between the second engagement member 22 and the body portion 24 may be formed by corresponding apertures 44 provided on each of the second engagement member 22 and the body portion 24, and wherein the corresponding apertures 44 enable a fastening element 46, such as a bolt, to be passed through them to secure the second engagement member 22 and the body portion 24 together in a way that permits said member 22 to pivot relative to the body portion 24. In embodiments wherein the second engagement member 22 is formed of a first part 22a and a second part 22b, the aperture 44 may be provided on the second part 22b. The connection device 20 may include a pair of first engagement members 21,21’ a pair of second engagement members 22, 22’ and may further include a pair of body portions 24. 24’. In embodiments, the respective pairs of first and second engagement members 21, 2T. 22, 22’ may be positioned generally next to each other. As shown in the Figures, the pair of first engagement members 21,21’ are provided such that one first engagement member 21 is provided on one side of plane X, and generally in line with the first lateral side 122 of the body 12, and the other first engagement member 21’ is provided on the other side of plane X, and generally in line with the second lateral side 124 of the body 12. In a similar manner, the pair of second engagement members 22, 22’ are provided such that one second engagement member 22 is provided on one side of plane X, and generally in line with the first lateral side 122 of the body 12, and the other second engagement member 22’ is provided on the other side of plane X, and generally in line with the second lateral side 124 of the body 12. Additionally, the pair of body portions 24, 24’ are provided such that one body portion 24 is provided on one side of plane X, and generally in line with the first lateral side 122 of the body 12, and the other body portion 24’ is provided on the other side of plane X, and generally in line with the second lateral side 124 of the body 12 In some embodiments, the connection device 20 may include an actuator assembly 50. As shown in Figures 7a to 7c, the actuator assembly 50 may be drivingly connected to the second engagement member 22. In use of the apparatus 10, the actuator assembly 50 may be operable to move the second engagement member 22, or second engagement members 22, 22’ between the first and second positions, and the intermediate position. The actuator assembly 50 may be electrically connected, or otherwise connected, to the control assembly 64 on the handle assembly 60, such that it may be controlled by the user during use of the apparatus 10. The actuator assembly 50 may include a linear actuator 51, or in embodiments including pairs of first engagement members 21, 2T, second engagement members 22, 22’, and body portions 24, 24’, the actuator assembly 50 may include two linear actuators 51, 5T. For simplicity, the foregoing description of the features and operation of the actuator assembly will be described in relation to the first and second engagement members 21, 22 and body portion 24 provided on one side of the apparatus 10. However, it should be understood that for embodiments which include respective pairs of said members 21, 2T, 22, 22’ and body portions 24’, the features and operation will not materially differ. In embodiments, the linear actuator 51 may be provided as an electromechanical actuator, such as a solenoid actuator or other suitable actuator, or may be provided as a hydraulic actuator, or may be provided as any other suitable linear actuator 51. As shown in Figures 7a to 7c, the linear actuator 51 is connected to a driving member 53, which may be connected to a part of the second engagement member 22. A first part 53a of the driving member 53 may be positioned within a guide slot 47, which in embodiments may be provided as a slot-shaped aperture on the body portion 24. The linear actuator 51 may operable to move the driving member 53 in a generally linear direction, between a first position and a second position, with the first part 53 of the driving member 53 positioned within the guide slot 47 travelling along the guide slot 47, Accordingly, the guide slot 47 may be positioned such that it extends in a direction which is generally parallel to the direction of motion of the driving member 53 when it is moved by the linear actuator 51. In embodiments, the first position of the driving member 53 may correspond to the linear actuator 51 being in a minimum extension condition, and the second position of the driving member 53 may correspond to the linear actuator 51 being in a maximum extension condition. In the first position, the first part 53a of the driving member 53 positioned within the guide slot 47 may be positioned at or near a first end 47a of the guide slot 47. In the second position, the first part 53a of the driving member 53 positioned within the guide slot 47 may be positioned at or near a second end 47b of the guide slot 47, with the first end 47a and second end 47b being generally opposite each other. It should be understood that the minimum extension condition and maximum extension condition of the linear actuator 51 may or may not correspond to the physical minimum and maximum travel of the moving part of the linear actuator 51, and may instead represent positions which are between the minimum and maximum possible travel of the actuator and which may be limited to a desired minimum and maximum extension condition through the use of mechanical stops, encoders, or other suitable means, or may be limited by the length of the guide slot 47 which may act to limit the possible travel of the first part 53a of the driving member 53 which is positioned within the guide slot 47. In embodiments, the driving member 53 may be connected to one or more resilient biasing elements 55. The one or more resilient biasing elements 55 may be connected at one end to the driving member 53 and connected to another part of the connecting device 20 at their other end. In the embodiment depicted in Figures 7a to 7c, the one or more resilient biasing elements 55 may be configured to bias the driving member 53 to its first position. As shown in figures 7a to 7c, the driving member 53 may also be connected to the second engagement member 22. Due to the connection between the driving member 53 and the second engagement member 22, movement of the driving member 53 resulting from movement of a part of the linear actuator 51 results in movement of the second engagement member 22. As explained above, the second engagement member 22 may be pivotably connected to the connection device 20, and in embodiment, to the body portion 24 of the device 20, such that it may move pivotably with respect to the connection device 20 / body portion 24. Therefore, the first and second parts 53a, 53b of the driving member 53 may be positioned at a radial distance R from point at which the second engagement member pivots about, i.e., the pivot point P of the second engagement member 22. As explained below, this radial distance R may not be constant as the driving member 53 is moved between its first and second positions. In embodiments, such as the embodiment depicted in Figures 7a to 7c, when the driving member 53 is in its first position, the connected second engagement member 22 is in its first position, and when the driving member 53 is in its second position, the connected second engagement member 22 is in its second position. As such, movement of the driving member 53 between its first and second positions causes movement of the second engagement member 22 between its first and second positions. In addition, as the driving member 53 may travel along the guide slot 47, the second engagement member 22 may be moved to an intermediate position, in which the first part 53a of the driving member 53 may be positioned at a point along the guide slot 47 which is between the first end 47a and the second end 47b. In embodiments, the second part 32 of the second engagement member 22 may include a second guide slot 48, and a second part 53b of the driving member 53 may be positioned within, and may be able to travel throughout, the second guide slot 48. The driving member 53 may further include a threaded portion, such that a nut or other fastener may be connected to it. As such, the driving member 53 may be secured to the second part 32 of second engagement member 22. As explained above, the first and second parts 53a, 53b of the driving member 53 are positioned at a radial distance R from the pivot point P of the second engagement member 22. Due to linear motion of the of the driving member 53, the second guide slot 48 is provided such that it extends in a direction transverse to the first guide slot 47. As shown in Figure 7c, when the driving member 53 and the second engagement member 22 are in their second positions, the driving member 53 is positioned at a first radial distance R1 from the pivot point P. As shown in Figure 7b, when the driving member 53 and the second engagement member 22 are in an intermediate position, the driving member is positioned at a second radial distance R2 from the pivot point P. In the instance shown in Figures 7a to 7c, the first radial distance R1 is greater than the second radial distance R2. Advantageously, the provision of the second guide slot 48 compensates for changes in radial distance, and thus assists in ensuring a smooth and unimpeded movement of the driving member 53 and the second engagement member 22 between their first and second positions, and vice versa. Without the second guide slot 48, the movement of the driving member 53 and the second engagement member 22 between said positions may result in skewing of the moving parts of the linear actuator which may result in damage, deformation and wear of the driving member 53, deformation and wear of the first guide slot 47, and unwanted binding of moving components which may prevent, or severely impede, movement of the second engagement member 22 between its first and second positions. In some embodiments, the connection device 20 may include an arcuate slot 49a and a guide member 49b positioned within the arcuate slot 49a. The guide member 49b may be connected to a part of the connection device 20 which remains stationary relative to the connection device 20, for instance the body portion 24, when the second engagement member 22 moves between first and second positions. As shown in Figure 4b, the arcuate slot 49a may be formed as an arc section of a circle, with the centre point of the arc section being coincident with the pivot point P of the second engagement member 22. The arcuate 49a may be provided on the second engagement member 22, and in embodiments is provided on the second part 32 of the second engagement member 22. As such the arcuate slot 49a moves relative to the stationary guide member 49b as the second engagement member 22 moves between first and second positions. The length of the arcuate slot 49a may be such that an end of the slot 49a is engaged with the guide member 49b when the second engagement member 22 is in one of the first or second positions. As such, the guide member 49b may act as a physical stop to prevent further movement of the second engagement member 22. In addition, the guide member 49b may be formed such that it assists in retaining the second engagement member 22 in place relative to the body portion 24, to prevent or minimise splaying or skewing of the second engagement member 22 when in use. Additionally, it may serve as a further means of ensuring smooth pivoting movement of the second engagement member 22 as it moves between its first and second positions. In embodiments, the connection device 20 may further include a fourth engagement surface 244 for engaging for a further portion 140 of the part of the load to be moved 100 during use of the apparatus 10. The further portion 140 of a part of the load to be moved 100 may include a fourth surface 144 of the part of the load 100, which generally faces the body 12 of the apparatus 10 during use. In some embodiments, the fourth engagement surface 244 may be provided as a surface of the body portion 24 of the connection device 20, and as such may be formed integrally with the body portion 24 and formed of the same material as the body portion 24. In other embodiments, the fourth engagement surface 244 may be provided as a surface of an additional component of the connection device 20, for instance as a part which may be connected to the body portion 24. For example, the fourth engagement surface 244 may be formed as part of a component which can be temporarily connected to the body portion which may be formed of a material which is more resistant towear, may be formed of a sacrificial material which can be replaced once it has been worn away sufficiently, or may be formed of a relatively softer material so as to not damage a part of the load to be moved. In other examples, the fourth engagement surface 244 may be formed of materials which are food-safe or ESD-safe. As shown in Figures 4a to 4c and Figures 4a to 5d, at least a portion of the fourth engagement surface 244 may extend generally between the first and second engagement surfaces 211, 222. In some embodiments, the fourth engagement surface 244 may be formed such that it generally conforms to the shape of a further portion 140 of a part of the load to be moved 100. In embodiments, the fourth engagement surface 244 may be formed such that it generally conforms with the shape of a further portion 140 of a part of the load to be moved 100, which may provide an optimally sized contact area between said surface 244 and the further portion 140 of a part of the load to be moved 100. For example, said surface 244 may be generally planar or flat, or may be provided as a curved or irregular surface which may be generally convex, concave, or may be formed as a surface having a combination of generally flat, convex and or concave portions. In other embodiments, it may not be formed to generally conform with the shape of a further portion 140 of the part of the load to be moved 100, but nonetheless formed such that it, in use, it may still adequately engage the further portion 140. In embodiments, a portion of the fourth engagement surface 244 is a generally curved convex surface and another portion is a generally planar surface. In other words, the fourth engagement surface 244 transitions from a generally curved convex first surface portion 244a to a generally planar second surface portion 244b. As shown in Figure 4a, the first surface portion 244a may be positioned generally below the second surface portion 244b. It should be understood that the fourth engagement surface 244 may be formed as one uniform / continuous surface type or shape, or a different combination of surface types or shapes in other embodiments. As shown in the Figures, the portion of the fourth engagement surface 244 which may be engageable with further portion 140 of a part of the load to be moved 100 is determined by the position of the second engagement member 22. As shown in Figure 4a, when the second engagement member 22 is in a first position, the first surface portion 244a and second surface portion 244b may be engageable with a further portion 140 of a part of a load to be moved 100. As shown in figure 4c, when the second engagement member 22 is in a second position, only the second surface portion 244b may generally be engageable with a further portion 140 of a part of a load to be moved 100. This may be the case even if a part of the first surface portion 244a is not traversed by the first engagement member 21, as it is generally not engageable with the further portion 140 of a part of a load 100 due to being positioned relative behind the second surface portion 244b. Accordingly, this means that as the second engagement member 22 moves from the first position to the second position, the further portion 140 of a part of the load to be moved 100 which is engaging with the fourth engagement surface 244 will remain in contact with said surface 244 as the second engagement member 22 pivots towards the first engagement member 21. As shown in Figures 4a and 4c, the third and fourth engagement surfaces 233, 244 are separated by a distance D1. In embodiments, due to the shape of the fourth engagement surface 244, as described above, as the second engagement member 22 moves from the first position to the second position, the distance D1 will change. With reference to Figure 4a, when the second engagement member 22 is in the first position, the third and fourth engagement surfaces 233, 244 are separated by a first distance D1. With reference to Figure 4c, when the second engagement member 22 is in the second position, the third and fourth engagement surfaces 233, 244 are separated by a second distance D2, In the instance shown in Figures 4a and 4c, the first distance D1 is greater than the second distance D2. Advantageously, the provision of a greater comparative distance D1 between the third and fourth engagement surfaces 233, 244 when the second engagement member 22 is in the first position means that when the user is connecting the load to be moved 1000 to the apparatus 10 using the connection device 20, as explained in more detail below, third engagement surface 233 will not be brought into engagement with the further portion 130 of the part of the load to be moved 100 until the distance D2 generally conforms to the length / width / depth of the part of the load to be moved 100. The benefit of this is that it allows more tolerance for positioning the connection device 20 relative to a part of the load to be moved 100, and also ensure that the third engagement surface 23 does not inadvertently clash with the part of the load 100 to be moved before the second engagement member 22 is moved to the second position, enabling the portion 23 of the second engagement member 21 to pass the part of the load to be moved 100, i.e., such that it may hook around the part of the load to be moved 100. The use of the connection device 10 to connect a part of the load to be moved 100 to the load moving apparatus 10 will now be described. As shown in Figures 6a to 6e, the connection device 20 of the apparatus 10 may be transitioned between an unlocked condition, a locked condition, and an intermediate condition. In the unlocked condition, the user may be able to approach the part of the load to be moved 100, such that the part of the load 100 may be positioned generally between the first and second engagement surfaces 211, 222. In the locked condition, the part of the load to be moved 100 may connected to the connection device 20 by engagement of the first and second engagement surfaces 211, 222 with an uppermost and lowermost surface of the part of the load to be moved 100 respectively. The third and fourth engagement surfaces 233, 244 may also be engaged with, or in near engagement with, the third and fourth surfaces 133, 144 of the part of the load to be moved 100 respectively. In the intermediate position, the part of the load to be moved 100 may be engaged with one of the first or second engagement surfaces 21, 22, but not securely connected to the connection device 20. In embodiments, in the unlocked condition the second engagement member 22 is in its first position. As such, the first and second engagement surfaces 211, 222 are separated by a distance D3. In embodiments, a distance D3’ may be the distance between first engagement surface 211 and an uppermost part of the portion 23 of the second engagement member 22. As shown in Figures 5a, 6a and 6b, this distance D3 is greater than a distance D4 between the uppermost and lowermost surfaces 111, 122 of the part of the load to be moved 100. Additionally, the distance D3 is greater than both D3’ and D4, and D3’ is greater than D4. Advantageously, this enables a user of the apparatus 10 to manoeuvre the apparatus 10 such that the part of the load to be moved 100 is positioned between the first and second engagement surfaces 211,222 without having the manually pivot the apparatus 10 towards the load to be moved 1000. This makes the apparatus 10 less strenuous and safer to connect to a load to be moved. In embodiments, the part of the load 100 to be moved may be considered ready to be connected to the connection device 20 once a fourth surface 144 of a part of the load 100 (said fourth surface 144 generally facing the body 12 of the apparatus 10) is in engagement, or near engagement, with the fourth engagement surface 244, and as such contact with the fourth engagement surface 244 may indicate to the user that the part of the load to be moved 100 is in an appropriate relative position to the connection device 20. This means that, in use of the apparatus 10, the part of the load to be moved 100 may generally engage with, or be brought into near engagement with, the fourth engagement surface 244, before it engages with any other engagement surfaces 211, 222, 233 of the connection device 20. As shown in Figure 6c, the connection device 10 may be transitioned to an intermediate condition in which the second engagement member 22 is moved from the first position to an intermediate position. This intermediate condition may be transitioned to once the user has positioned the part of the load to be moved 100 between the first and second engagement surfaces 211, 222, and when it may also be in engagement, or near engagement, with the fourth engagement surface 244. In this intermediate condition, the second engagement surface 222 is engaged with the lowermost surface 122 of the part of the load to be moved 100. However, the first engagement surface 211 is separated by a distance D5 from the uppermost surface 111 of the part of the load to be moved 100. As such, whilst the connection device 20 is now partially engaged with the part of the load to be moved 100, it is not fully connected to it. As shown in Figures 6d and 6e, the connection device 10 may be subsequently transitioned to a locked condition in which the second engagement member 22 is moved from an intermediate position to the second position. As the second engagement surface 222 is already in engagement with the lowermost surface 122 of the part of the load to be moved 100, the first engagement surface 211 must be brought into engagement with the uppermost surface 111 of the part of the load to be moved 100, by reducing the distance D5 to zero, or nearly to zero. In use of the apparatus 10, due to the relatively high mass of the load to be moved 1000 compared to the apparatus 10, the continued motion of the second engagement member 22 towards the second position will not be sufficient in force to lift the part of the load to be moved 100 off of the ground surface, and towards first engagement member 22 and corresponding first engagement surface 221. Therefore, for the second engagement member 22 to be brought to its second position, the body 12 of the apparatus 10 will pivot about the wheel axle 15 towards the load to be moved. This is shown in Figures 6d and 6e, in which the body axis A is shown to pivot towards the load to be moved 1000 from a first orientation 01 to a second orientation 02. In Figure 6d the body 12 of the apparatus 10 has partially pivoted from the first orientation O1 to an intermediate condition 01’, towards the load to be moved 1000, as the connection device 20 is transitioning to the locked condition. In Figure 6e, the body 12 of the apparatus 10 has fully pivoted from the first orientation O1 to the second orientation 02, as the connection device 20 has now transitioned to the locked condition. The pivoting of the body 12 towards to load to be moved 1000 results in the connection device 20 also pivoting towards the load to be moved 1000. When combined with continued movement of the second engagement member 22 to its second position, the first engagement surface 211 is brought into engagement with the uppermost surface 111 of the part of the load to be moved 1000. Upon transitioning the connection device 20 into the locked condition, the first and second engagement surfaces 211, 222 are engaged with the uppermost and lowermost surfaces 111, 122 of the part of the load to be moved 100. In addition, the third and fourth engagement surfaces 233, 244 are also engaged, or near engaged, with third and fourth surfaces 133, 144 of the part of the load to be moved 100, as a result of the reduction of the distance D1, D2 between the third and fourth engagement surfaces 233, 244 as described above. Accordingly, the part of the load to be moved 100 is connected to the connection device 20 securely, i.e., it is clamped by the first and second engagement surfaces 211, 222, and may be prevented from excess lateral movement by the presence of the third and fourth engagement surfaces 233, 244 of the connection device 20. As shown in Figures 5b and 6e, in the locked condition, the first to fourth engagement surfaces 211, 22, 233, 244 conform to a significant portion of the shape of the part of the load to be moved 100. In the embodiment depicted in Figures 5b and 6e, the shape formed by the first to fourth engagement surfaces 211, 222, 233, 244 is substantially rectangular. In this embodiment, the first and second engagement surfaces 211, 222 are generally parallel with each other, and the third and fourth engagement surfaces 233, 244 are generally parallel with each other. In other embodiments, the part of the load to be moved 100 may be provided as a different shape, such as being generally circular or elliptical, triangular or any other regular or irregular polygonal shape, and as such, the shape formed by the first to fourth engagement surfaces 211, 222, 233, 244 may conform accordingly. In such embodiments, said surfaces 211, 222, 233, 244 may not be generally parallel in the locked condition. In other embodiments, in the locked condition, said surfaces 211, 222, 233, 244 may not be formed to generally conform with the shape of the part of the load to be moved 100, but nonetheless formed such that it, in use, they may still adequately with the surfaces 111, 122, 133, 144 of the part of the load to be moved 100. For instance, in the locked condition, the shape formed by the engagement surfaces 211, 222, 233, 244 may be substantially rectangular, but may still be engageable with parts of loads 100 having different cross-sectional shapes. In one example, each engagement surface 211, 222, 233, 244 may engage with, or be in near engagement with, corresponding portions 110, 120, 130,140 of a part of a load 100 which is generally circular. The pivoting of the body 12 of the apparatus 10 towards the load to be moved is advantageous as it ensures that when the connection device 20 is in the locked condition, the mass of the load to be moved is supported by the connection device 20 and transferred to the at least one ground engaging wheel 14 of the apparatus 10, minimising the amount of force required to be expended by the user in moving the connected load, and the apparatus 10, over a ground surface. This benefit is accomplished without requiring the user to manually pivot the body 12 of the apparatus 10 during any of the described conditions. In embodiments of the apparatus 10 which include a castor wheel assembly 70, when the connection device 20 is in the locked condition, the pivoting of the body 12 towards the load to be moved may also result in the at least one castor wheel 70 may be elevated from the ground surface, meaning that the mass of the load to be moved is not transferred to the at least one castor wheel 70. When used in this specification and claims, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" and variations thereof mean that the specified features, steps or integers are included. The terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps or components. The invention may also broadly consist in the parts, elements, steps, examples and / or features referred to or indicated in the specification individually or collectively in any and all combinations of two or more said parts, elements, steps, examples and / or features. In particular, one or more features in any of the embodiments described herein may be combined with one or more features from any other embodiment(s) described herein. Protection may be sought for any features disclosed in any one or more published documents referenced herein in combination with the present disclosure. Although certain example embodiments of the invention have been described, the scope of the appended claims is not intended to be limited solely to these embodiments. The claims are to be construed literally, purposively, and / or to encompass equivalents.

Claims

1. A load moving apparatus including:at least one ground engaging wheel for moving the apparatus along a ground surface, said at least one wheel rotatably mounted to an axle;a body connected to the axle;a handle assembly connected to the body;a connection device for connecting a load to be moved to the load moving apparatus, the connection device being connected to the body, said connection device including,a first engagement member having a first engagement surface for engaging with a first portion of a part of the load and a second engagement having a second engagement surface for engaging with a second portion of a part of the load,wherein the first engagement surface is positioned above the second engagement surface, andwherein the second engagement member is movable towards and away from the first engagement member.

2. A load moving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second engagement member is pivotably movable.

3. A load moving apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the second engagement member is movable between a first position and a second position, wherein the second engagement member moves towards the first engagement member when moving from the first position to the second position, and wherein the second engagement member is movable to an intermediate position in between the first position and second position.

4. A load moving apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the second engagement member has a length, and wherein the length of the second engagement member is adjustable such that the size of the second engagement surface is adjustable.

5. A load moving apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein a portion of the second engagement member remote from the body of the apparatus extends generally upwardly away from the ground surface, said portion including a third engagement surface for engaging with a further portion of a part of the load.

6. A load moving apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the connection device includes a fourth engagement surface for engaging with a further portion of a part of the load, and wherein at least a portion of the fourth engagement surface extends between the first and second engagement surfaces.

7. A load moving apparatus according to claim 6 wherein at least a portion of the fourth engagement surface is generally planar, and / or at least a portion of the fourth engagement surface is generally curved.

8. A load moving apparatus according to claim 6 or claim 7, when dependent directly or indirectly on claim 3, wherein when the second engagement member is in the second position, at least a portion of the fourth engagement surface which, in use, is engageable with the further portion of the part of the load, is generally planar.

9. A load moving apparatus according to any of claims 6 to 8, when dependent directly or indirectly on claim 3, wherein a portion of the second engagement member remote from the body includes a third engagement surface for engaging with a further portion of a part of the load, and when the second engagement member is in the first position, the third and fourth engagement surfaces are separated by a first distance D1, and when the second engagement member is in the second position the third and fourth engagement surfaces are separated by a second distance D2, and wherein the first distance D1 is greater than the second distance D2.

10. A load moving apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the connection device includes a body portion, and wherein the second engagement member is movably connected to the body portion.

11. A load moving apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the first engagement member is movably connected to the body portion, such that its position relative to the body portion can be adjusted, or wherein the first engagement member is integrally formed with the body portion.

12. A load moving apparatus according to any preceding claim, when dependent directly or indirectly on claim 3, wherein the connection device further includes an actuator assembly drivingly connected to the second engagement member, the actuator assembly operable to move the second engagement member between the first and second positions.

13. A load moving apparatus according to claim 12 wherein the actuator assembly includes a linear actuator connected to a driving member, the linear actuator operable to move the driving member between a first position and a second position.

14. A load moving apparatus according to claim 13 wherein the connection device further includes a first guide slot extending in a direction which is generally parallel to the direction of motion of the driving member, and wherein a part of the driving member is positioned within the first guide slot.

15. A load moving apparatus according to claim 14, when dependent directly or indirectly on claim 10, wherein the guide slot is positioned on the body portion, the second engagement member is pivotably connected to the body portion, and the driving member is connected to the second engagement member, wherein the second engagement member includes a second guide slot extending in a direction transverse to the first guide slot, and wherein a part of the driving member is positioned within the second guide slot.

16. A load moving apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the connection device includes a pair of first engagement members and a pair of second engagement members, and wherein the respective pairs are positioned next to each other and generally parallel to the ground surface.

17. A load moving apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the connection device is pivotably connected to the body of the apparatus, the connection device being pivotably movable relative to the body about a substantially vertical axis V.

18. A load moving apparatus according to any of claims 3 to 17 wherein the connection device has an unlocked condition in which the second engagement member is in the first position and a locked condition in which the second engagement member is in the second position, and wherein, in use, in the locked condition the first engagement surface is engaged with a first, uppermost surface of a part of a load to be moved, and the second engagement surface is engaged with a second, lowermost surface of a part of the load to be moved.

19. A load moving apparatus according to claim 18, when dependent directly or indirectly on claim 3, wherein the connection device has an intermediate condition in which the second engagement member is in the intermediate position, and wherein, in use, in the intermediate condition the second engagement surface is engaged with the second, lowermost surface of a part of a load to be moved, and the first engagement surface is separated by a distance D5 from the first, uppermost surface of a part of a load to be moved.

20. A load moving apparatus according to claim 19, when dependent directly or indirectly on claims 5 and 6, wherein, in use, when the connection device is in the locked condition, the third engagement surface is engaged with a third surface of a part of the load to be moved which generally faces away from the body of the load moving apparatus, and the fourth engagement surface is engaged with a fourth surface of a part of the load to be moved which generally faces the body of the load moving apparatus.

21. A load moving apparatus according to any of claims 18 to 20, wherein, in use, the body of the apparatus pivots about the wheel axle towards the load to be moved as the connection device transitions from the unlocked condition to the locked condition.

22. A load moving apparatus according to any of claims 18 to 21, wherein, in use, when the connection device is in the unlocked condition, the first and second engagement surfaces are separated by a distance D3 which is greater than the distance D4 between the uppermost and lowermost surfaces of the part of the load to be moved.

23. A load moving apparatus including:at least one ground engaging wheel for moving the apparatus along a ground surface, said at least one wheel rotatably mounted to an axle;a body connected to the axle;a handle assembly connected to the body;a connection device for connecting a load to be moved to the load moving apparatus, the connection device being connected to the body, said connection device including,a first engagement member having a first engagement surface for engaging with a first portion of a part of the load and a second engagement for engaging with a second portion of a part of the load having a second engagement surface, the second engagement member being movable towards and away from the first engagement member,wherein the connection device has an unlocked condition and a locked condition, and wherein, in use, in the locked condition the first engagement surface engages with the first portion of the part of a load to be moved, and the second engagement surface engages the second portion of the part of the load to be moved, andwherein, in use, the body of the apparatus pivots about the wheel axle towards load to be moved as the connection device transitions from the unlocked condition to the locked condition.27

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