Vehicle storage system

Abstract

A vehicle storage device is proposed that includes a lifting jack having spaced apart lifting tines, a dolly reversibly connectable to the lifting jack in several alternating positions, and a center point device that is used to determine weight distribution along the longitudinal axis of the dolly when a vehicle is positioned on the dolly and assists in proper mounting of the dolly on the lifting tines, thereby preventing the lifting jack from tipping over or the vehicle stored on the dolly from moving when in the raised position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for storing a vehicle, and more particularly, to an apparatus and method for storing a motorcycle.

Background Art

[0002] Motorcycles are popular as a means of transportation and are often collected by driving enthusiasts. Many enthusiasts keep their motorcycles stored for most of the time. Some enthusiasts may also have multiple motorcycles that can only be used rarely.

[0003] This often necessarily involves storing a motorcycle or multiple motorcycles in a garage or warehouse, which is often a limited space. This may mean that the bike needs to be frequently moved to access other items being stored. This increases the risk of damaging the bike. In the case of a collectible motorcycle, any damage can significantly affect the enthusiast's investment.

[0004] There are various lift benches for motorcycles and pinch-type lifts of portable jacks disclosed in the prior art, which can be used to raise the bike from the ground. This is generally done to assist users attempting maintenance or repair. One such device is disclosed in International Application PCT / US2004 / 023641 (by Thurm), which teaches a portable motorcycle lift utilizing a pinch-type frame configuration. However, the bike is only raised a short distance from the ground, and the pinch-type frame hinders access under the device for storage purposes.

[0005] There are available storage racks that allow motorcycles, or other types of small land or water vehicles, to be positioned on pallets and placed on shelves. However, this requires the use of a forklift, which is often impractical under typical storage conditions. Furthermore, these systems are large and generally unsuitable for garages or storage lockers. Therefore, such systems are generally unsuitable for most motorcycle owners.

[0006] Furthermore, various trolley devices disclosed in the prior art exist that can be used to raise at least one wheel of a motorbike off the ground, thereby allowing the motorbike to be guided more easily into confined spaces.

[0007] One such trolley is disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2002 / 0109130 in the name of TC Development and Design, Inc., which teaches a portable motorcycle lift capable of independently raising the front and rear ends of a motorcycle. Another trolley system is disclosed in International Application PCT / AU2015 / 000428 in the name of Black MC Pty Ltd., which discloses a trolley frame supported by multi-directional wheels. This trolley frame pivots to engage with the tires of a motorcycle and then lowers to lift the motorcycle's wheels in order to assist in guiding the vehicle for storage.

[0008] However, these systems cannot utilize the vertical space within the storage area to assist in the storage of one or more motorcycles.

[0009] As used throughout the description and claims, the term “vehicle” should be given a broad definition and include, but is not limited to, motorbikes, four-wheeled motorcycles, motorized tricycles, or other types of motorized small land vehicles, or vessels such as jet skis and other personal watercraft (PWCs), which are also often stored in garages or storage lockers.

[0010] Throughout this specification, any description of prior art should be understood to be included solely for the purpose of providing it in relation to the present invention. It should not be considered permissible to allow such prior art to be widely known or to form part of the general knowledge in the art, since it exists prior to the priority date of this application. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0011] [Patent Document 1] PCT / US2004 / 023641 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2002 / 0109130 [Patent Document 3] PCT / AU2015 / 000428 issue [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0012] An object of the present invention is to provide a device for use in storing vehicles at a height above ground level, configured to prevent them from tipping over. Another object of the present invention is to overcome at least some of the aforementioned problems, or to provide the public with at least a useful alternative. The aforementioned objects do not necessarily need to be considered to overlap. Various embodiments of the present invention may satisfy one or more of the above objects. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] In one embodiment of the present invention, but not necessarily in a broad or sober sense, a device for storing a vehicle is proposed, which includes: Lifting jack with spaced-out lifting prongs; A trolley that can be reversibly connected to a lifting fork at several alternating positions; and A central point device that determines the weight distribution along the longitudinal axis of the bogie when the vehicle is positioned on the bogie, assists in selecting one of several alternating positions for the proper mounting of the bogie to the lifting jack, thereby preventing the lifting jack from tipping over when the lifting jack is in a raised position or when moving a vehicle stored on the bogie.

[0014] It can be understood that the center point or pivot point of the bogie changes depending on the vehicle being stored and the specific configuration of the vehicle, and that this can change over time.

[0015] Preferably, once the vehicle is positioned on the bogie, the bogie is movable laterally relative to the lifting fork and reversibly connectable to the lifting line when the longitudinal center point of the bogie is defined.

[0016] The bogie can be connected to the lifting jack using nuts and bolts that can engage through coaxially aligned holes. Alternatively, a fastening mechanism or clip can be connected to the lifting jack at various positions depending on the weight distribution of the vehicle supported on the bogie.

[0017] The bogie and the center point device are preferably separate devices. However, in an alternative embodiment, the center point device may form part of the bogie and be movable between a downwardly extended position when it is used to determine weight distribution and a disengaged or retracted position when the vehicle is supported on the bogie's caster wheels or the bogie's sliding parts. In yet another embodiment, the caster wheels or sliding parts may be retractable to expose the center point device, so that the center point device can be used to determine weight distribution along the longitudinal axis or length of the bogie.

[0018] As can be understood from the above, the longitudinal center point will change depending on which vehicle is being stored. Furthermore, the center point of a particular vehicle may change depending on the amount of fuel in the fuel tank or if accessories are added. Therefore, the bogie can be reversibly fixed to the lifting fork, thereby allowing the longitudinal center point to be re-evaluated and the bogie to be reinstalled prior to storage.

[0019] In another embodiment of the present invention, a motorcycle storage device is proposed that includes the following: A trolley having multiple main holes that extend through and are generally vertical, supported on wheels or sliding parts, and configured to hold a motorbike on it; A lifting jack including spaced lifting prongs, each of which includes at least one dependent hole that extends through and is vertical overall; and A central point device that selectively supports a bogie on which it is used to determine the weight distribution along the longitudinal axis of the bogie, wherein at least two of the vertical main holes are confirmed to be coaxially aligned with respective dependent holes extending through a lifting fork, thereby allowing the passage of the respective fixing means through them, the bogie can be fixed and connected to the lifting fork, thereby providing an overall even weight distribution to prevent the device from tipping over or the movement of a vehicle stored on it.

[0020] The lifting jack can be a portable unit having lockable caster wheels, a ground engaging member with rollers, a vertical frame and a lifting mechanism for lifting spaced apart lifting forks.

[0021] Alternatively, the lifting jack can comprise a frame attachable to a wall or other vertical support, and lifting forks movably connected to the frame.

[0022] The lifting mechanism can include a hydraulic or pneumatic system to assist in lifting the trolley / motorcycle. The lifting mechanism can also include chains, tracks, and other components obvious to those skilled in the art, which will not be described in detail.

[0023] The apparatus preferably includes a locking member that is reversibly engagable to hold the lifting forks in the lifted position. The locking member can prevent the lifting forks from unexpectedly descending when the motorcycle is supported thereon. It is important to prevent the lifting forks from contacting an object, such as another motorcycle or vehicle, stored or positioned below.

[0024] Preferably, the lifting jack includes a wheel locking portion for the caster wheels. In one form, the wheel locking portion can be automatically activated when the lifting forks are lifted. Thereby, when the lifting forks are in the lifted position, the lifting jack is prevented from being moved. When the motorcycle is stored at a certain height, if the lifting jack is moved, the risk of the device tipping over due to weight distribution or applied lateral pressure will increase. [[ID=[]] [[ID=[]]

[0025] [[ID=[]] In one configuration, the trolley comprises a plate attached to two spaced-apart crossbars. Each crossbar is equipped with a caster wheel assembly at both ends, thereby effectively supporting the plate on four wheels. Each crossbar further includes small holes for restraints such as ratchet straps, which may assist in securing the motorcycle when stored.

[0026] The plate may include a movable inclined portion at a first end and a wheel engaging member at a second end on the opposite side. Preferably, the plate is L-shaped overall and has an upwardly opening channel at the second end adjacent to a vertical end restraint.

[0027] In one embodiment, the wheel engagement member may comprise a rearward-opening support member, which is fixedly mounted to a vertical end restraint of the plate. The rearward-opening support member is configured to hold the front portion of the motorbike's front wheel. The wheel engagement member may further include a pivotable support member, which is at least partially held within an upward-opening channel. During use, as the motorbike moves up the inclined section and along the upward-opening channel of the plate, the front wheel moves over the pivotable support member and into contact with the rearward-opening support member. As the reader will understand, the pivotable support member pivots as the wheel moves over it, thereby engaging with the rear portion of the front wheel. The plate may further include a non-slip surface that can assist in holding the front wheel in place when the front wheel is positioned within the wheel engagement member.

[0028] Furthermore, four threaded bore bolts may be positioned on either side adjacent to the front wheel and configured to engage with through holes in the plate. In one embodiment, the reader will understand that a three-point wheel locking assembly is assumed and provided to hold the front wheel.

[0029] The front wheel of the motorcycle is assumed to engage with the wheel engagement member.

[0030] The pivotable support members are repositioned along channels opening above the plate, and can accommodate wheels of different diameters.

[0031] The wheel engagement member may also include a modified or mounted portion of a plate, which may assist in holding the motorcycle's wheel.

[0032] Multiple main holes extend vertically through the thick plate of the bogie.

[0033] The guide member may be slidably connected to or configured to engage with the plate. In a preferred embodiment, the guide member is fixed on the edge of an upwardly opening channel and configured to slide along this edge. The guide member is used in conjunction with a center point device to determine which of a plurality of main holes is used to align coaxially with at least one dependent hole through the lifting fork.

[0034] One embodiment of the center point device comprises rollers with enlarged ends that contact each side of the plate. This allows the center point device to be positioned under the plate, enabling the trolley to be moved longitudinally rearward and forward to support the motorbike while determining the weight distribution and the lateral center point line of the trolley. The enlarged ends of the center point device ensure proper positioning under the plate and prevent the center point device from rolling laterally out from under the trolley during use.

[0035] The diameter of the center point device is preferably greater than the distance between the underside of the plate and the caster wheel, thereby lifting the caster wheel off the ground when the plate is supported by the center point device.

[0036] Once the trolley is moved, thereby positioning the center point device so that the weight is evenly distributed on both sides, the guide member can be moved, thereby aligning the center line of the guide and positioning it perpendicular to the axis of rotation in the center point device. In one embodiment, the length of the guide member is the same as the distance between the dependent holes of adjacent lifting forks. This means that the user then marks or indicates the main holes adjacent to each end of the guide member. It can be used to mount the trolley on the lifting forks to evenly distribute the weight of the trolley / bike.

[0037] An L-shaped bracket can be used as a back support to assist in attaching the trolley to the lifting fork, in order to correct the positioning of the thick plate relative to the lifting fork, making it easier to align the holes.

[0038] In another embodiment of the present invention, a method for storing a motorcycle is proposed, comprising the following steps: A motorcycle storage device comprising a trolley reversibly connectable to a lifting jack in several alternating positions, and a central point device, according to any one of the above embodiments; A step for positioning a motorbike on a thick plate of a trolley; Steps to raise the trolley using a lifting jack; Step 1: Position the center point device under the thick plate of the trolley; Using a lifting jack, the trolley is lowered until the plate rests on the center point device; A step of moving the trolley longitudinally to determine the overall center point of the motorbike and the trolley, thereby distributing the weight evenly on both sides of the center point device; The steps include marking the center point / pivot point and other relevant measurements on the trolley's plate or indicating them otherwise; A step of raising the trolley from the central point device using a lifting jack; Steps to remove or move the central point device; A step of securing the trolley's plate to the lifting jack using a center point or other relevant measurement mark, so that when the trolley and motorbike are lifted by the lifting jack, the motorbike storage device does not tip over or the movement of the vehicle stored on it is prevented.

[0039] The above method preferably includes the step of securing the motorbike to the trolley using at least one wheel engaging member and / or fastener and / or strap and / or reversible mounting member for holding the motorbike in a predetermined position relative to the trolley.

[0040] The accompanying figures incorporated herein and constituting part thereof illustrate the embodiment of the invention and, together with the detailed description and claims, are useful in illustrating the advantages and principles of the invention. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0041] [Figure 1] This is a front perspective view of one embodiment of a lifting jack in a motorcycle storage device according to the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a rear perspective view of the lifting jack. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view of a trolley, a central point device, and a guide member in a motorcycle storage device. [Figure 4] Figure 3 is an exploded assembly diagram of the trolley. [Figure 5] Figure 3 is a top view of the trolley with the guide member attached and the central point device. [Figure 6] Figure 1 is a front view of the lifting jack, with a motorbike positioned on a trolley. [Figure 7] Figure 6 is a side view illustrating a motorbike positioned on a trolley and an adjacent lifting device. [Figure 8] Figure 7 is a front view illustrating a motorbike and a trolley positioned on the tip of a lifting device. [Figure 9]Figure 8 is a front view illustrating the pointed end of a lifting jack that engages with a trolley and a motorbike and is raised. [Figure 10] Figure 9 is a front view illustrating the pointed end of a lifting jack in a lowered position, with the trolley resting on a central point device. [Figure 11] Figure 10 is a front view illustrating the repositioning of the trolley to distribute weight evenly, and the movement of the guide member. [Figure 12] Figure 11 is a top view of the trolley, illustrating the removal of the motorcycle and the selection of appropriate mounting holes. [Figure 13] Figure 12 is a perspective view illustrating the installation of a bolt. [Figure 14] This is an enlarged top view of the area shown in Figure 13, indicating the mounting of the bracket, the position of the bracket mounting holes, and the trolley attached to the fork. [Figure 15] Figure 11 is a front view of the device, illustrating a trolley mounted on the pointed end of a lifting device. [Figure 16] Figure 15 shows a side view of the device and motorcycle illustrating the use of a ratchet strap. [Figure 17] This is a side view of the device on the opposite side, as shown in Figure 16. [Figure 18] Figure 17 is a side view illustrating a lifting jack in a raised position, with part of the vehicle positioned beneath a raised trolley and motorbike. [Figure 19] This is a front view of a device illustrating two motorbikes stacked on top of each other and supported by separate trolleys. [Figure 20] This is a rear view of another embodiment of the lifting jack. [Figure 21] Figure 20 is a side view of the lifting jack. [Figure 22] Figure 20 is a top view of the lifting jack. [Figure 23] This is a perspective view of another embodiment of the thick plate of the trolley. [Figure 24] This is a perspective view of the opposite side of the thick plate shown in Figure 23. [Figure 25] Figure 23 is a side view of the thick plate, illustrating the configuration before folding. [Figure 26] This is a side view of the thick plate shown in Figure 23 after folding. [Figure 27] This diagram shows the lower side of the thick plate in Figure 23, illustrating the position of the holes. [Figure 28] This figure shows the end of the vertical end retaining portion in the thick plate shown in Figure 23, illustrating the position of the holes. [Figure 29] This is a cross-sectional view through AA in the thick plate shown in Figure 24, illustrating the configuration of the holes. [Figure 30] Figure 20 is a partial top view of the ground engagement member in a lifting jack, illustrating an expanded configuration of the rollers. [Figure 31] Figure 20 is a side view of the lifting jack's prism. [Figure 32] This figure shows the lower side of the lifting fork in Figure 31, illustrating the fixing holes in the thick plate and the corresponding nuts. [Figure 33] Figure 32 is a cross-sectional view of the lifting fork passing through the ball bearing (BB). [Figure 34] Figure 31 is a top view of the lifting fork, showing the mounting of two adjacent thick plates for supporting each motorcycle from above. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0042] Throughout the drawings, similar reference symbols indicate corresponding parts. Dimensions of specific parts shown in the drawings may be modified and / or exaggerated for clarity or illustrative purposes.

[0043] Referring to the drawings for a more detailed explanation, a motorcycle storage device 10 is illustrated, illustrating an arrangement in which the principle of the present invention can be utilized as an example.

[0044] As illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the motorcycle storage device 10 in this embodiment includes a lifting jack 12, which is a portable unit, comprising a lockable caster wheel 14, a ground engagement member 16 with rollers 18, a vertical frame 20, a lifting mechanism 22, a handle actuator 23 including a hydraulic cylinder valve, spaced-out lifting forks 24 having dependent holes 25a and 25b, a handle 26, and a brake actuator 28. The lifting jack 12 is a configuration known in the prior art and will not be described in detail, as those skilled in the art will understand the configuration and operation of this device.

[0045] Referring to Figures 3 and 4, an example is shown of a trolley 30 that can be connected to or mounted on the lifting fork 24 of the lifting jack 12. The trolley 30 of this embodiment comprises a plate 32 attached to two spaced cross members 34, 36 by bolts 38 and nuts 40. Each cross member 34, 36 is provided with a caster wheel assembly 42 at both ends thereof, thereby supporting the plate 32 on four lockable caster wheels 44.

[0046] Each horizontal member 34, 36 further includes restraining holes 46 for attaching ratchet straps 48, etc., as illustrated in Figures 15 to 17, to assist in securing the motorbike 50 to the device 10 when the motorbike 50 is stored. The ratchet straps 48 can be attached as soon as the motorbike 50 is positioned on the plate 32, or at least before the motorbike 50 is lifted to a height above the ground.

[0047] The horizontal members 34 and 36 are constructed from a box-shaped section of aluminum, with a length of 498 mm and an outer cross-sectional area of ​​50 mm x 25 mm. The horizontal members 34 and 36 are attached to both ends of the plate 32 and bolted directly through selected 12 mm holes 92.

[0048] At each end of the cross members 34 and 36, a multi-directional trolley wheel / caster wheel assembly 42, each rated at 95 kg, is positioned with a suitable brake. In this embodiment, the total height from the base of the plate 32 off the ground is 95 mm, providing a 5 mm gap above the members 16 and 24 of the device 10. This allows the plate 32 to be guided to an intervention position above the positioning bolt holes 92 on the lifting fork 16, which is ready to be raised. The trolley wheel 42 is bolted to the aluminum section 34 or 36 using 10 mm bore bolts 46, which provide a fixing point for a safety ratchet strap 48 used to secure the bike 30 onto the plate 32.

[0049] The plate 32 has an inclined section 52 that can be attached to the first end 54 by screws / bolts 56. In this embodiment, the first central hole 92 at the entrance of the plate 32 is located 25 mm from the tip and is made to house a removable inclined section 52 for loading and unloading motorcycles or vehicles.

[0050] The second end 58 on the opposite side of the plate 32 includes a wheel engagement member 60. The wheel engagement member 60 comprises a rearward-opening support member 62, which in this embodiment is attached to the second end 58 of the plate 32 by a pin 64 extending through an aperture 66.

[0051] The support member 62, as shown in Figure 6, is configured to hold the front of the wheel 68 of the motorbike 50 and can pivot slightly around the pin 64 to accommodate different sized wheels 68.

[0052] The wheel engaging member 60 may further include a pivotable wheel capturing member 70, which is at least partially held within a channel 72 opening above the plate 32. The pivotable wheel capturing member 70 is held in place by a pin 74, which is configured to engage alternatively with cooperative apertures 76a, 76b, and 76c, depending on the size of the wheel 68.

[0053] During use, the four caster wheels 44 are locked, and the motorbike 50 moves up the inclined section 52 in the manner of the arrows in Figure 6, and along the channel 72 that opens above the plate 32. The front wheel 68 moves over the pivotable wheel retention member 70 and abuts against the support member 62 that opens to the rear. As the reader will understand, the pivotable support member pivots as the wheel moves over it, thereby engaging with the rear portion of the wheel once it has passed over it. The plate 32 may include anti-slip surfaces 71 positioned within the wheel engagement member, or bolts that hold the wheel in place by passing through selected holes 92 on either side of the front wheel, to assist in holding the front wheel in place.

[0054] In this embodiment, the plate 32 is formed to the length of the open channel, is cut along the dashed line 78 and folded to form an upwardly open channel 72 and an adjacent vertical end retainer 80, the upper end 82 being cut and folded. In this embodiment, the L-shaped bracket 84 is mounted using nuts 86 and bolts 88 that engage with the aperture 90, thereby securing the vertical end retainer 80 to the upwardly open channel 72.

[0055] The height of the vertical end restraint 80 is 420 mm in this embodiment and is configured to restrain the motorcycle from moving forward. It is also used to reinforce the plate 32 so that it holds the edge of the front tire in place at 62. The upper end 82 of the vertical end restraint 80 acts as a reinforcing element and may include an indicator to identify the origin of the present invention. The plate 32 is bent at a 90° angle and welded along a 45° cutting line 78.

[0056] The upward-opening channel 72 and end restraint portion 80 further include a number of main holes 92 extending vertically through the plate 32. Their purpose will be explained in detail below.

[0057] As illustrated in Figure 3, the apparatus 10 further includes a guide member 94 which can be fixed onto the edge of an upwardly open channel 72 and thereby slidable along the upwardly open channel 72, as indicated by the arrow in Figure 5. The guide member 94 has a central mark 96 and a length 98 equal to the distance between the adjacent dependent holes 25a or 25b passing through the adjacent lifting forks 24. In one embodiment, this length is 525 mm, but the reader will understand that guide members of other lengths can be used depending on the distance between the dependent holes 25a or 25b.

[0058] As shown in Figure 5, the ends of the guide member 94 indicate which main holes 92a and 92b should be used to align with the dependent holes 25a or 25b in the respective lifting forks 24.

[0059] The device 10 further includes a center point device 100, which comprises a cylindrical roller portion 102 and a disc-shaped end portion 104 larger than the cylindrical roller portion 102. Thus, when the plate 32 is positioned on the cylindrical roller portion 102, the shoulder portion 106 engages with the vertical side of each plate 32. The shoulder portion 106 of the center point device 100 ensures that the position of the plate 32 is corrected and prevents the center point device 100 from rolling laterally out from under the trolley 30 during use. The reader will understand that the ends of the center point device 100 simply expand to prevent disengaging from under the plate 32.

[0060] The guide member 94 is used in conjunction with the central point device 100 to determine which of the multiple main holes 92 is used to coaxially align with the dependent holes 25a or 25b used to attach the thick plate 32 of the trolley 30 to the lifting fork 24.

[0061] As illustrated in Figure 3, in this embodiment, the device 10 further includes an installation bracket 110, which includes a plurality of holes 112 for assisting the alignment of the main hole and secondary holes 25a or 25b, 92, as described with respect to Figure 12. In this embodiment, the bracket 110 is held in place by bolts 114 passing through the holes 112 and by apertures 25a or 25b in the respective lifting prisms 24.

[0062] Figure 7 illustrates the steps of using the device 10, where the trolley 30 is positioned in front of the lifting jack 12. The trolley 30 is then moved in the direction of the arrow in Figure 7, thereby positioning the trolley 30 above the top of the lifting prism 24, as illustrated in Figure 8.

[0063] Next, the lifting fork 24 is operated to lift the trolley 30 and motorbike 50 from the ground 118, as shown by the arrow in Figure 9, thereby separating the caster wheels 44 from the ground 118. The center point device 100 can then be installed directly beneath the plate 32 in the approximately central region of the elongated length of the plate 32.

[0064] Next, the center point device 100 is placed under the plate 32, and the lifting fork 24 is operated to lower the trolley 30, as shown by the arrow in Figure 10, so that the plate 32 is supported by the center point device 100. The trolley 30 with the motorcycle mounted on it can then be moved backward and forward, as illustrated in Figure 11, until the weight is evenly distributed on either side of the center point device 100.

[0065] Next, the guide member 94 can be moved longitudinally along the plate 32 in the direction of the arrow, as illustrated in Figure 11, thereby aligning the central line 96 and positioning it vertically above the rotation axis 120 of the central point device 100.

[0066] Next, the lifting fork 24 can be used to lift the trolley 30 again in order to remove the center point device 100, and then lower it again, thereby detaching the motorbike 50 from the plate 32 as needed. As illustrated in Figure 12, the bracket 110 can then be attached to the lifting fork 24 to assist in aligning the main holes 92a, 92b, selected to be adjacent to the ends of the guide member 94, with the lower secondary holes 25a or 25b in the lifting fork 24. Attaching the bracket 110 means that the side of the plate 32 can be pushed up relative to the vertical portion of the bracket 110, thereby allowing the plate 32 to be moved laterally, backward, and forward to align with the main holes and secondary holes 92, 25a, or 25b. However, the reader should understand that the use of the bracket 110 is not mandatory.

[0067] Figure 12 also illustrates the position of the rotation axis 120 of the center point device 100, which aligns with the center line 96 of the guide member 94. Figures 13 and 14 illustrate the use of bolts 122 to secure the plate 32 to the lifting fork 24. It should be understood that if different motorcycles are stored, or if the weight distribution of the motorcycle changes due to fluctuations in fuel in the tank, or by the addition / removal of accessories, the bolts 122 can be removed and the center point re-evaluated using the method described above.

[0068] As illustrated in Figures 15 to 17, the motorcycle 50 can be secured to the restraining holes 46 using ratchet straps 48. Furthermore, the motorcycle 50 can be secured to the restraining holes 124 using ratchet straps 48. These ratchet straps 48 help to hold the motorcycle 50 upright and engage with the wheel engagement members 60.

[0069] Next, the caster wheels 14 are locked using the brake actuator 28 to prevent them from moving when the vehicle is in a lifted position. The motorbike 50 can then be lifted to a height above the ground using the lifting jack 12, and a portion of the vehicle 126 can be positioned beneath the lifted motorbike, as illustrated in Figure 18. Alternatively, another motorbike 50a positioned on a separate trolley 30a can be moved beneath the lifted motorbike 50, as illustrated in Figure 19. A fluid catch tray (not shown) can be placed between the bottom of the motorbike 50 and the motorbike 50a below to prevent oil or other fluids from dripping onto the motorbike 50a, or to store items underneath.

[0070] The space beneath the lifted motorbike 50 can also be used to store other objects of appropriate size.

[0071] The reader will also understand that the center point device 100 is used to determine the approximate longitudinal center of gravity of the trolley 30 with the motorbike 50 positioned on top of it. In this way, the trolley 30 can be attached to the lifting fork 24, thereby distributing the weight evenly and preventing the device 10 from tipping over when in the lifted position, as illustrated in Figures 18 and 19.

[0072] Figure 18 also illustrates a jack safety chain 128 attached to the small hole 124 using a shackle 130, thereby preventing the lifting fork 24 from descending unintentionally.

[0073] Figures 20 to 22 illustrate a preferred embodiment of the lifting jack 12 with an elongated handle actuator 23 of the lifting mechanism 22.

[0074] The plate 32 can be formed by bending a length of steel having multiple main holes 92 extending through it, as illustrated in Figures 24 to 29. As illustrated in Figure 25, the length of steel, which may be 2500 mm, is cut at 78 to allow bending. Both sides of the upwardly open channel 72 are cut into a V shape and then folded to form an L-shaped plate 32, as illustrated in Figure 26.

[0075] Both sides of the upward-opening channel 72 are cut at a 45° angle by the side reinforcing wall at the entrance point E or starting point of the plate 32, as illustrated in Figure 23, to prevent damage to the motorcycle's tires when the motorcycle is loaded onto the plate 32.

[0076] In this embodiment of the folded device, as illustrated in Figure 26, the total length of the plate 32 is 2080 mm. This length of the plate 32 accommodates motorcycles of varying lengths. When a motorcycle is positioned on the plate 32, neither the front nor rear wheels simultaneously move over the raised sections at points 52 and 70. The effective length is reduced to 2018 mm by a rearward-opening support member 62, which is a large rubber wheel stop block in a preferred embodiment. However, the reader will understand that it is possible to use a plate 32 of other lengths.

[0077] As further illustrated in Figure 26, a rubber stopper R may be mounted on the tip of a vertical end stopper 80. The rubber stopper R is used as a stopper to contact a wall or other vertical surface and assists the user when loading the motorcycle onto the plate 32, because it prevents the unit from moving forward.

[0078] As illustrated in Figures 27 to 29, multiple main holes 92 extend through the plate 32. The number and configuration of the holes 92 in the preferred embodiment allows the plate 32 to be used in various sizes and configurations of motorcycles.

[0079] In one embodiment, the width of the thick plate 32 is 300 mm in total width and 250 mm in inner diameter between the inner edges of the upwardly opening channel 72, as illustrated in Figure 29.

[0080] Four 12mm small-hole bolts with large threads are secured through selected holes 92 on either side of the wheel and can hold the bottom end of the motorcycle's front wheel as part of a wheel retention or locking mechanism.

[0081] As further illustrated in Figures 27 and 28, the pattern of holes in the plate 32 is designed to give a range of movement and adjustment positions while it is mounted on the lifting blade or fork. This is to maximize the length on the blade to accommodate two plates. Furthermore, the design of the hole pattern is such that, once the user uses the center point device 100 while the bike is mounted on the plate 32, the user can mark the center point on the plate 32 and then use the measuring device element which is equal to 6 × 87 mm. The distance between each hole in the longitudinal direction of the plate is 522 mm, which is the same as the distance between the holes 25 drilled in the lifting blade 24. This means that there are many fixed points while the bike is being raised, ensuring a balanced weight distribution while it is being raised. The various angles outlined in the drawings are designed so that the holes adapt to the plate, leaving space at the outer edge to accommodate the bolts so that they do not hit the reinforcing wall of the plate 32.

[0082] As illustrated in Figure 29, the 12 mm hole 92 is punched out and angled upward or downward, slightly raised by about 3 mm. This is done to capture any small amount of fluid, oil, or fuel in the horizontal portion of the plate 32, preventing them from flowing onto the motorcycle / vehicle below, thereby protecting the motorcycle / vehicle from damage. The reader will understand that the hole illustrated in Figure 29 is located in the vertical end retaining portion 80. However, the reader will understand that the hole 32 in the horizontal portion of the plate 32 is constructed similarly.

[0083] Figure 30 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the ground engagement member 16, which has a roller 18 with a pair of wheels 132, 134 mounted on an axle 136. The wheels 132 are held within their respective mounting portions 138 at the end of the member 16. The wheels 134 are positioned outside the member 16 and are provided as outriggers to improve the stability of the lifting jack 12.

[0084] The trolley 30 can be used by itself to store and move vehicles stored on it, and vehicles such as motorcycles can be safely mounted on the trolley 30 and rotated 360° horizontally.

[0085] Figures 31-34 illustrate another embodiment of spaced lifting forks 24, illustrating the position of nuts 140 for securing plates 32 thereto. Figure 34 further illustrates the positioning of two plates 32a and 32b on a single pair of lifting forks 24 to hold each motorcycle above in a side-by-side arrangement. Those skilled in the art will understand the advantages of the illustrated invention over the prior art. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a means for storing vehicles such as motorbikes at a height above ground level. As the reader will understand, this is a great advantage in situations where space is expensive, such as in car garages or storage lockers, or where multiple motorcycles are to be stored. The reader will understand that the device can be used to store other vehicles, such as jet skis and other personal watercraft (PWC), but is not limited to these.

[0086] While many features of the present invention have been described and explained in detail along with exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that these particular arrangements are merely illustrative and that the present invention is not limited thereto. Therefore, the present invention can include many modifications, which will remain within the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A vehicle storage device, A lifting jack having spaced-out lifting prongs, A trolley that can be reversibly connected to the lifting fork at several alternating positions, A central point device equipped with rollers that, when a vehicle is positioned on the trolley, determines the center of gravity and weight distribution along the longitudinal axis of the trolley, assists in selecting one of several alternating positions for suitable mounting of the trolley to the lifting jack, thereby preventing the lifting jack from tipping over when the lifting jack is in a raised position or when moving a vehicle stored on it; A vehicle storage device that includes [a specific vehicle].

2. The vehicle storage device according to claim 1, wherein the trolley is movable laterally with respect to the lifting jack, and once the longitudinal center point of the trolley and the vehicle is determined, it can be reversibly connected to the lifting fork.

3. The vehicle storage device according to claim 2, wherein the trolley can be connected to the lifting fork using nuts and bolts that are engageable through coaxially aligned main holes, or a fastening mechanism or clip can be provided to connect to the lifting jack at various positions depending on the weight distribution of the vehicle supported on the trolley.

4. Vehicle storage device according to claim 3, wherein the guide member is slidably connected to or configured to engage with the plate, and the guide member is used in conjunction with the center point device to determine which of a plurality of main holes extending through the plate is to be used to coaxially align with a secondary hole passing through one of the lifting forks.

5. The vehicle storage device according to claim 4, wherein the thick plate includes an upwardly opening channel, and the guide member is configured to rest on the edge of the upwardly opening channel and slide along it.

6. The vehicle storage device according to claim 4, wherein the center point device comprises rollers having enlarged ends and is in contact with or positioned adjacent to each side of the plate, thereby preventing the center point device from rolling laterally out from under the plate of the trolley during use.

7. The vehicle storage device according to claim 1, wherein the trolley and the central point device are separate components.

8. The vehicle storage device according to claim 1, wherein the trolley and the central point device are structurally integrated.

9. The vehicle storage device according to claim 1, wherein the lifting jack may be a portable unit having a lockable caster wheel, a ground engagement member with a roller, and a lifting mechanism for lifting a vertical frame and a spaced lifting prism, or the lifting jack may comprise a frame that can be mounted on a wall or other vertical support and a lifting prism movably connected thereto.

10. The vehicle storage device according to claim 1, comprising a trolley comprising a plate attached to two spaced cross members, each cross member including a caster wheel assembly or a sliding part at each end, thereby the plate being effectively supported by four caster wheels or sliding parts, and each cross member further including restraining holes for fasteners such as ratchet straps to assist in securing a motorbike when stored.

11. The vehicle storage device according to claim 4, wherein the thick plate includes a removable inclined portion at a first end and a wheel engaging member at the opposite second end adjacent to a vertical end restraint portion.

12. A motorcycle storage device, A trolley having multiple main holes that extend through and are generally vertical, and configured to be supported on wheels or sliding parts and to hold a motorbike thereon, A lifting jack comprising spaced lifting prongs, each of which includes at least one subordinate hole extending through and being entirely vertical, A central point device, which selectively supports the trolley at several alternating positions for use in determining the weight distribution along the longitudinal axis of the trolley, wherein at least two of the vertical main holes are confirmed to be coaxially aligned with their respective subordinate holes extending through the lifting forks, thereby allowing the passage of their respective fastening means, the trolley can be fixedly connected to the lifting forks, thereby providing an overall even center of gravity and weight distribution to prevent the device from tipping over or the vehicle stored on it from moving, and the central point device is equipped with rollers. A motorcycle storage device, including [specific component].

13. A method of storing a motorcycle or vehicle, The steps include providing a motorcycle or vehicle storage device that includes a trolley reversibly connectable to a lifting jack in several alternating positions, and a central point device, The steps include positioning a motorbike or vehicle on the thick plate of the trolley, The steps include raising the trolley using the lifting fork of the lifting jack, The steps include positioning the central point device below the thick plate of the trolley, The steps include lowering the trolley using the lifting fork until the thick plate is placed on the central point device, The steps include moving the trolley in the longitudinal direction to determine the center point or pivot point of the motorbike and the trolley as a whole, thereby distributing the weight evenly on both sides of the center point device, The steps include marking the center point / fulcrum and other related measurements on the thick plate of the trolley, or indicating them in a different manner, The steps include using the aforementioned lifting jack to raise the trolley from the central point device, The steps of removing or moving the aforementioned central point device, A step of using the center point or other related measurement mark, wherein the thick plate of the trolley is secured to the lifting fork of the lifting jack, thereby preventing the storage device from tipping over or the vehicle stored on it from moving when the trolley and the motorbike / vehicle are lifted by the lifting jack, Methods of storing a motorcycle or vehicle, including [specific examples of such methods].

14. The method according to claim 13, comprising the step of securing a motorbike to a trolley using at least one wheel engaging member and / or fastener and / or strap and / or other reversible mounting member for holding the motorbike in a predetermined position relative to the trolley.

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