Support device

Abstract

A frame for assisting in the removal of a component from a vehicle is disclosed. The frame includes a pivot mount adapted to be pivotally attached to a base. The frame comprises a suspension means and a connecting bar connecting the suspension means to a base in a spatially fixed arrangement. The connecting bar has a generally convex shape, allowing an object to be freely suspended so as to rotate about an imaginary line connecting the suspension means to the base. A method for using the frame to remove a component, such as a gearbox, from a vehicle is also disclosed.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a support device for supporting and manipulating vehicle components, such as gearboxes, and is particularly suitable for use by operators working underneath a vehicle, which may be a car, van, lorry, etc. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0002] While many vehicle repairs are relatively easy to perform, dealing with larger parts can be problematic, especially if the part is bulky or heavy. In modern vehicles, space utilization within the motor and drive assembly is high, leaving relatively little room for an operator to repair a damaged part. Manufacturers are commercially driven to maximize the space available to vehicle users and storage space within the vehicle. Therefore, when a part needs to be removed for replacement or repair, operators are faced with the challenge of how to safely perform that removal.

[0003] This problem is exacerbated when dealing with heavy components like gearboxes. A typical gearbox is too heavy for an operator to safely support by themselves, even under ideal working conditions. However, because the operator first works under the vehicle, typically in a pit or with the vehicle on a ramp, the conditions are usually far from ideal. Second, once the gearbox is removed from the vehicle, it must be rotated on one or more axes so that it can be loaded through an opening in the vehicle's chassis.

[0004] For this purpose, mechanical supports are available that, in their most basic form, provide a liftable platform that supports contact with the gearbox from below. Once the gearbox is completely disconnected from the vehicle, the platform is lowered and the gearbox is lowered and removed from the vehicle. The platform is usually equipped with wheels that allow the gearbox to be moved to a more convenient location. However, problems remain, particularly if the gearbox needs to be rotated before removal, as the platform presents an additional obstacle for workers to reach and rotate the gearbox.

[0005] It is an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus for addressing the above problems.It is a further object of the present invention to provide a method for removing a gearbox from a vehicle. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a frame for assisting in the removal of a part from a vehicle. a pivot mount pivotally attached to the base; and a suspension means operatively connected to a first end of a connecting bar (12-14) connecting the suspension means to the spatially fixedly positioned pivot mount, the connecting bar (12-14) having a generally convex shape that allows an object to be freely suspended from the suspension means such that the object can rotate about an imaginary line connecting the suspension means to the base.

[0007] This configuration allows an object to be initially supported by the device while in one orientation and then easily moved in another orientation without being removed from the device.

[0008] The connecting bar preferably includes end sections that are horizontally disposed at right angles to the pivot mount.

[0009] If desired, the connecting bar may be semicircular in shape to provide maximum clearance from the supported object.

[0010] Preferably, the suspension means comprises a rod seated in the through hole of the connecting bar and fixed in position by a fixing member, more preferably threadably connected to a first end of the rod, and more preferably the fixing member is separated from the connecting bar by one or more friction reducing members to allow the rod to pivot about an axis parallel to the through hole.

[0011] The axis of the rod is directed at the connection between the pivot mount and the base, ensuring that the supported object hangs substantially over the center of gravity of the frame.

[0012] Preferably, an eyelet having a through hole, more preferably an eyelet having an elongated through hole, is fixed to the second end of the rod to allow a fixing means, such as a strap, to be fixed thereto.

[0013] The suspension means preferably comprises an eyelet having an elongated opening through which one or more straps can pass, the eyelet preferably being rotatably fixed to the connecting bar, more preferably being fixed to an end of the connecting bar.

[0014] Preferably, the first end of the connecting bar, or end section thereof, includes a narrowed portion having a smaller diameter than the remainder of the connecting bar or end. More preferably, the first end of the connecting bar includes an end cap having a larger diameter than the narrowed portion. More preferably, the end cap is removably securable to the connecting bar.

[0015] According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of removing a component, such as a gearbox, from a vehicle, the method comprising: selecting a base and pivotally securing a frame thereto; The frame is a pivot mount pivotably attached to the base; a connecting bar connecting the suspension means to a base in a spatially fixed arrangement; a flexible strap operably attached to the hanging means; the connecting bar having a generally convex shape that allows the object to be freely suspended from the suspension means such that the object can rotate about an imaginary line connecting the suspension means to the base; manipulating the frame under the vehicle when the part is within the convex shape of the connecting bar, lifting the frame, and pivoting the frame; securing a strap around the part such that the strap supports the part; separating the part from the vehicle, manipulating the part, and lowering the frame until the part is clear of the vehicle. This allows the part to be removed with minimal operator support of the part's weight. The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show, by way of example only, one embodiment of a support, and in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1] 1A to 1C are diagrams showing a first embodiment of the support body, including (a) a front view, (b) a rear view, (c) a bottom view, (d) a plan view, (e) a detailed view of part A, (f) a detailed view of part B, and (g) a detailed view of part C. [Figure 2A-2B] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a first embodiment of a support body. [Figures 2C-2D] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a first embodiment of a support body. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the portion (e) of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 1(e) is a perspective view of the portion shown in FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a base portion of the support; [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a second embodiment of the support body. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a third embodiment of the support body. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a side view of a gearbox supported by a first embodiment of a support; [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is an end view of a gearbox supported by a first embodiment of a support; [Figure 10] 10A-10B are first and second side views showing a second embodiment of the support body, FIG. 10C is an enlarged view of part A in FIG. 10A, and FIG. 10D is an enlarged view of part B in FIG. 10B. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 shows an extensible tubular element of the support stand. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 shows the fixed expansion element of FIG. [Figure 13] 10A-10C show strap retainers in another embodiment of a crossbar having a first support clip. [Figure 14] 14 shows another embodiment of the crossbar of FIG. 13 having a second support clip. [Figure 15] 14 shows another embodiment of the crossbar of FIG. 13 having lifting straps. [Figure 16] 10A and 10B show another embodiment of a retainer to which a strap or the like can be secured. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] The referenced figures show an embodiment of a support device according to the present invention, which is particularly suitable for removing and installing a gearbox from a motorized vehicle. Although exemplary dimensions are provided, those skilled in the art will recognize that these are merely exemplary and that other dimensions may be used where applicable.

[0018] In the figures, a support is shown, generally designated 10. The support 10 is primarily formed of a strong, rigid material such as steel, although other materials known in the art may be used. The support is intended to be permanently, or more preferably removably, pivotally attached to a base (not shown) which serves to hold the support 10 in an upright position and prevent the support 10 from tipping over, particularly when supporting a gearbox. The base itself may be supported on wheels, allowing the support and gearbox to be moved to another location or for a new or repaired gearbox to be brought onto the vehicle and installed.

[0019] To support the gearbox mass, support 10 includes a frame including tubular segments 12-15. Tubular segments 12-15 have a circular cross section and a diameter of approximately 38 mm. It should be noted that while the frame is described as having sections, it is preferably formed from a single piece of polyethylene-coated tubular steel bent into the shape shown. Extending from the first end of tubular segment 12, which is approximately 235 mm long, is pivot mount 11, which is approximately 90 mm long and also formed from tubular steel with a diameter of 38 mm. The pivot mount 11 and frame are secured together by conventional welding. In use, pivot mount 11 fits onto a cylindrical rod extending from the base, allowing pivot mount 11 to pivot freely 360° around the tubular axis in either rotational direction. In a preferred embodiment, the frame is provided with releasable locking means that allow an operator to lock the pivot mount, thus locking the frame in a particular orientation to prevent pivoting when undesired.

[0020] Tubular segment 13 is parallel to pivot mount 11 and forms an upright in use. Tubular segment 13 has a length of approximately 380 mm and is joined at a first end to a second end of tubular segment 12, the angle between the two segments being 120°. Reinforcing members 26 are welded to pivot mount 11 and tubular segment 12 to provide additional strength to support 10.

[0021] Extending from the second end of tubular segment 13 is another tubular segment 14 approximately 150 mm in length, with the two segments 13, 14 at a 120° angle with respect to each other. A tubular segment approximately 120 mm in length depends from the other end of tubular segment 14, functioning as crossbar 15. Crossbar 15 is joined to the other end of tubular segment 14 by connecting segment 25, forming a 150° angle with tubular segment 14. Thus, crossbar 15 in the illustrated embodiment is deployed perpendicular to the axis of pivot mount 11.

[0022] It will be seen that tubular segments 12-14 and crossbar 15 together form a generally convex shape. This allows objects to be more easily suspended and maneuvered into place without colliding with the frame. One skilled in the art can devise frames of other shapes, such as a V-shape, an open rectangle, or an arc of a circle or ellipse, but generally maintain the convex shape.

[0023] Support 10 provides a means by which an object can be suspended, and the support means is included as part of crossbar 15. Referring again to FIG. 1 and further to FIGS. 3 and 4, which illustrate a preferred means for supporting an object, the illustrated support can easily secure an object in place by one or more flexible straps (not shown) of a type known in the art. Particularly suitable straps are those made of synthetic fiber material that resists tearing and stretching. Furthermore, the strap material is such that two sections of the strap that are adjacent and in contact with each other resist movement due to frictional forces generated by relative movement.

[0024] A generally rectangular eyelet 16, measuring approximately 35 mm by 45 mm, is provided depending downwardly from crossbar 15 for retaining one or more straps. Eyelet 16 has elongated rectangular openings 17a, 17b through which at least a portion of the strap can pass. Again, engagement of the strap with the walls of openings 17a, 17b resists movement of the strap through the openings and secures an object suspended by the strap.

[0025] The eyelet 16 has a small tab from which extends a threaded rod 18 at at least a first end thereof, threadably receiving a locking nut 23. The rod 18 is freely rotatably received within a through-hole 19 in the crossbar 15. The orientation of the rod 18 within the crossbar 15 is further stabilized by a sleeve 20 received within the through-hole 19, which prevents the rod 18 from significantly deviating from its substantially vertical use position. The sleeve 22 has a flange 21c at one end, to which it is securely attached by a welded joint. The flange 21c rests against the upper edge of the through-hole 19, preventing it from falling out of the through-hole 19. Before inserting the sleeve 22 into the through-hole 19, washers 21a and 21b are slid onto the outside of the sleeve 20. When the locking nut 23 is threaded onto the end of the rod 18, the washers 21a and 21b separate the flange 21c from the upper edge, facilitating rotation of the rod 18. Washers 21a, 21b may be made of a steel material that may optionally be coated with a low friction material such as Teflon. Alternatively, washers 21a, 21b may be made of a low friction material.

[0026] 6 shows a second embodiment of the support device in which the support 60 comprises a frame including a tubular support 61 formed in a generally semicircular shape. The support is formed from a polyethylene steel pipe having a diameter of 38 mm. The radius of the surface 62 of the support 60 is approximately 325 mm. Reinforcing members 66 are welded to the pivot mounts 63 and the tubular section 61.

[0027] FIG. 7 shows a third embodiment of a support device having a support 70 comprising a frame including tubular segments 71. Support 70 is formed from a polyethylene steel pipe having a diameter of 38 mm. Support 70 is bent into five straight segments 72-76. The angles between adjacent segments, starting from the lowest segment 72, are 135°, 156°, 140°, and 130°, respectively. In both the second and third embodiments of the frame, the support means are as described in the first embodiment.

[0028] Thus, during use, for example, when it is desired to remove a gearbox from a vehicle, an operator positions the vehicle in a location that allows the operator to work safely underneath, such as on a ramp or in a work pit. Any components, such as an undertray, that would impede access to the gearbox are removed. If necessary, and with suitable fastening means, the orientation of the frame relative to the base can be releasably secured. One or more flexible straps are placed through openings 17a, 17b in eyelets 16. The straps are incorporated into a ratchet system that allows the straps to be tightened or released when securing or releasing a moving object. The base is placed underneath the vehicle from which the gearbox is to be removed, and the base is raised to allow the frame to enter the space within the vehicle chassis.

[0029] Once in the chassis, the frame is rotated into position so that the gearbox fits within the frame sections 12-14 and crossbar 15, and into the recessed space between the eyelet 16 and pivot mount 11. The eyelet is then positioned so that the straps are on either side of the gearbox and above it. The straps are passed around the gearbox and tightened using a ratchet system so that the gearbox, disconnected from the vehicle, is supported by the straps in a balanced manner. The operator selects a suitable base and secures the frame by placing the pivot mount 11 around the cylindrical rod extending from the base. The frame height is increased so that part of the gearbox's weight is supported by the straps.

[0030] 8 and 9 show the gearbox support with straps 90 secured around the gearbox 91. If the operator deems it necessary, additional sets of straps can be utilized to secure the gearbox 91. Note that the positioning of the eyelet 92 is such that the center of gravity of the gearbox 91 is located substantially along an imaginary line connecting the eyelet 92 and the pivot mount 93. In addition to straps, chains, ropes, etc., or combinations thereof, can be utilized for the lifting operation.

[0031] More specifically, the vehicle is lifted and the undertray and other components are removed to allow access to the gearbox. The support device is maneuvered into position with the eyelets over the gearbox and straps on either side of the gearbox. The straps are secured in place around the gearbox to keep it balanced. If a vertical lifting device is not in place, it is connected to the support device, allowing the support device to be moved vertically. The lifting device is then adjusted to support the gearbox via the straps. The gearbox is now separated from the vehicle, its weight supported by the straps and frame. If secured, the frame can be released and pivoted to move the gearbox and frame out of the chassis. The gearbox can then be rotated about three mutually perpendicular axes to be manipulated into an orientation and position that allows the gearbox to be removed. Once the gearbox is in the right position, the base is lowered until the gearbox is clear of the chassis, and then the gearbox is moved to the required location. During this operation, the weight borne by the operator is much less than would normally be the case. In addition, because the operator does not need to be under the gearbox, the risk of injury to the operator is significantly reduced.

[0032] To install the gearbox, the vehicle is again raised onto a ramp or work pit. The frame is secured to the base, and the gearbox is held in place within one or more straps attached to the frame in the same manner as above. The gearbox is then placed under the vehicle and lifted into place, allowing the operator to easily rotate the gearbox within the straps and position it correctly. The gearbox is then secured to the vehicle. After loosening and removing the straps, the base is separated from the frame and lifted away from the vehicle. The frame is then removed from the vehicle, and the remaining work is completed before the undertray is reinstalled. Another use for the support device is to apply an upward force to springs or other elements of the suspension system, for example, to assist with work on an automobile suspension. This can also be used to separate system components from each other. For example, a strap secured to a vertical lifting device can be attached to one component. A further strap is attached to another component, and that strap is secured to the support fixture. When the support device is lifted, the two components are separated from each other.

[0033] In a further embodiment not shown, two support devices can be fixed one above the other to provide two degrees of freedom for supporting separate objects and enabling their independent manipulation.

[0034] 10 and 11 show another tubular element 110 that can be extended or contracted to suit the application. Element 110 includes two segments 111, 112. Element 111 has an end portion 113 that is smaller in diameter than the rest of segment 111, with the outer diameter of end portion 113 matching the inner diameter of element 112. End portion 113 includes a series of openings 114. During use, as shown in FIG. 12, one of openings 114 is aligned with opening 115 in element 112, and a suitable locking clip 116 can be used to lock the relative positions of elements 111, 112. Clip 116 includes a loop 118a that passes around the head of pin 117, which itself passes through both openings 114, 115 to prevent axial movement of elements 111, 112. Another loop 118b of clip 116 similarly passes around end 119 of pin 117.

[0035] In the embodiment of crossbar 130 shown in Figures 10 and 13 and 14, end 131 of crossbar 130 is of a thinner diameter than the remainder of crossbar 130. This allows clips, such as those shown as 132 in Figure 13 and 133 in Figure 14, to be attached to help secure additional elements, such as straps, or alternatively, straps can be attached around thinner portion 131. Thus, there is less risk of the clips slipping off crossbar 130. Optionally, end pieces 134 can be removably secured to crossbar 130 to facilitate application of the clips.

[0036] In the embodiment of Figure 15, strap 150 has loops 151a, 151b at each end that are passed over end 131 of crossbar 130. If the loop size is smaller than the diameter of end piece 134, end piece 134 is removed to allow strap 150 to be positioned, and once positioned, secured in place on the crossbar. The item to be lifted can then be secured to center portion 152 of strap 150. In another embodiment not shown, straps of varying lengths can be used to suit particular applications.

[0037] 16 shows an alternative embodiment of a retainer to which straps or the like can be secured for use in lifting an object such as a gearbox. The retainer 160 in this embodiment has a generally triangular shape and defines an opening 161 through which the strap can pass, with one of the sides 162 of the triangle oriented horizontally to aid in the stability of the secured strap.

Claims

1. a pivot mount (11) pivotally attached to the base; a suspension means operably connected to a first end of the connecting bar (12-14), the connecting bar being connected at a second end to a pivot mount, connecting the suspension means to the spatially fixedly disposed pivot mount; The connecting bars (12-14) have a generally convex shape that allows the object to be freely suspended from the suspension means so that the object can rotate about an imaginary line connecting the suspension means to the base. A frame to aid in the removal of parts from a vehicle, including

2. The frame of claim 1 , wherein the connecting bar includes end sections disposed horizontally and perpendicular to the pivot mounts.

3. 3. A frame as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the shape of the connecting bars is semi-circular to maximise clearance from the supported object.

4. A frame according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the suspension means comprises a rod (18) seated in a through hole (19) in the connecting bar and fixed in position by a fixing member (23).

5. The frame of claim 4 , wherein the securing member is threadably connected to the first end of the rod.

6. A frame according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the fixed member is separated from the connecting bar by one or more friction reducing members (21a-c) so that the rod can pivot about an axis parallel to the through hole.

7. 7. A frame as claimed in any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the axes of the rods are directed towards the connections between the pivot mounts and the base to ensure that the supported object hangs substantially above the centre of gravity of the frame.

8. 8. A frame according to any one of claims 4 to 7, including an eyelet having a through hole secured to the second end of the rod.

9. The frame of claim 4 wherein at least one through-hole is elongated.

10. 10. A frame according to any preceding claim, wherein the suspension means comprises an eyelet having an elongated opening.

11. The frame of claim 10 , wherein the eyelet is rotatably fixed to the connecting bar.

12. The frame of claim 11 , wherein the eyelets are secured to the ends of the connecting bars.

13. 3. The frame of claim 2, wherein the first end of the connecting bar or end section thereof includes a narrowed portion (131) of smaller diameter than the remainder of the connecting bar or end.

14. 14. A frame as claimed in claim 13, wherein the first end of the connecting bar has an end cap of a larger diameter than the narrowed portion (131).

15. The frame of claim 14 , wherein the end caps are removably securable to the connecting bars.

16. 1. A method of removing a component, such as a gearbox, from a vehicle, the method comprising: selecting a base and pivotally securing a frame thereto; The frame is a pivot mount pivotably attached to the base; a connecting bar connecting the suspension means to a base in a spatially fixed arrangement; a flexible strap operably attached to the hanging means; the connecting bar having a generally convex shape that allows the object to be freely suspended from the suspension means such that the object can rotate about an imaginary line connecting the suspension means to the base; manipulating the frame under the vehicle when the part is within the convex shape of the connecting bar, lifting the frame, and pivoting the frame; securing a strap around the part such that the strap supports the part; Separating the part from the vehicle, manipulating the part and lowering the frame until the part is clear of the vehicle; A method comprising:

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