Construction jack accessories

Abstract

Lifting and lowering tool for supporting a load. The lifting and lowering tool includes a construction jack (100) comprising a base (110), a bar (120) extending from the base, and a movable assembly (130) engaged with the bar and movable therealong, the movable assembly comprising a movable platform (140). The lifting and lowering tool also includes a platform lift accessory (10) removably coupled to the construction jack so that movement of the movable assembly raises or lowers the platform lift accessory. The platform lift accessory comprises a platform lift housing (20) and a platform lift mast (30) having a tubular configuration that slides over and down the bar, with the platform lift mast including an extension platform (40) that supports the load. With the platform lift mast slid over the bar, the platform lift accessory and the supported load are aligned with a central axis (210) of the construction jack.

Description

CONSTRUCTION JACK ACCESSORIESCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 566,277, filed March 16, 2024, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.Field of the Invention:

[0002] Aspects of this invention may comprise accessories for a construction jack such as that disclosed in PCT Application PCT / US2022 / 047468, published as WO2023076123, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. While the basic concept of such jacks is known, the present disclosure includes various improvements which may be utilized together or independently in various embodiments.Summary of the Invention:

[0003] Provided herein is a lifting and lowering tool for supporting a load. The lifting and lowering tool includes a construction jack comprising a base, a bar extending from the base and defining a central axis of the construction jack, and a movable assembly engaged with the bar and movable therealong, the movable assembly comprising a movable platform. The lifting and lowering tool also includes a platform lift accessory removably coupled to the construction jack so that movement of the movable assembly raises or lowers the platform lift accessory. The platform lift accessory comprises a platform lift housing and a platform lift mast retained by the platform lift housing and having a tubular configuration that slides over and down the bar, the platform lift mast extending from the platform lift housing and including an extension platform at a far end thereof configured to support the load. With the platform lift mast slid over and down the bar, the platform lift accessory is aligned with the central axis, with the extension platform and the load supported thereby also in line with the central axis.

[0004] In certain configurations, the extension platform includes a through hole formed therein shaped to receive the bar, such that the bar may protrude from the extension platform prior to raising the extension platform away from the base.

[0005] In certain configurations, the platform lift mast has a telescoping configuration that may extend away from the platform lift housing, with the platform lift mast comprising an extension arm that may slide relative to the platform lift mast and that is also telescopic to the bar, and wherein the extension platform is mounted to the extension arm.

[0006] In certain configurations, the platform lift housing is configured to be supported on the movable platform, such that actuation of the movable assembly lifts upward on the platform lift housing.

[0007] In certain configurations, the platform lift housing is supported on a housing of the movable assembly adjacent to the bar, such that actuation of the movable assembly lifts upward on the platform lift housing.

[0008] Also provided herein is a platform lift accessory coupleable to a construction jack so that movement of a movable assembly of the construction jack raises or lowers the platform lift accessory. The platform lift accessory comprises a platform lift housing, a platform lift mast retained by the platform lift housing and extending out therefrom, and a multi-faced extension platform connected to the platform lift mast at an end thereof opposite the platform lift housing and configured to support a load. The multi-faced extension platform is configured to enable connection thereof to the platform lift mast in a plurality of different orientations and on a plurality of sides of the multi-faced extension platform.

[0009] In certain configurations, the plurality of sides of the multi-faced extension platform include at least a first side and a second side, where the first side has a different configuration than the second side, but where each of the plurality of sides includes a slot formed therein configured to engage the platform lift mast.

[0010] In certain configurations, the first side comprises one or more channels formed thereon configured to retain the load.

[0011] In certain configurations, the second side comprises a generally flat platform surface that provides a planar exterior for engaging and supporting the load.

[0012] In certain configurations, the plurality of sides further includes a third side and a fourth side having different configurations than the first side and the second side.

[0013] In certain configurations, the third side comprises a V-shaped channel or groove formed thereon and the fourth side comprises a semi-circular channel formed thereon.

[0014] In certain configurations, the platform lift mast has a telescoping configuration that may extend away from the platform lift housing, with the platform lift mast comprising an extension arm that may telescopically slide relative to the platform lift mast, and wherein the multi-faced extension platform is mounted to the extension arm.

[0015] Also provided herein is a lifting and lowering tool for supporting a load. The lifting and lowering tool includes a construction jack comprising a bar comprising a bottom end and a top end and a movable assembly engaged with the bar and movable therealong, the movable assembly comprising a movable platform. The lifting and lowering tool also includes a footassembly joined to the bottom end of the bar, the foot assembly comprising a support pole that mounts to the bar and a plurality of support feet extending out from the support pole.

[0016] In certain configurations, the foot assembly comprises a tripod-type, extendable support foot platform, with the plurality of support feet comprising a plurality of extendable support feet configured to fold out and telescopically collapse in towards the support pole.

[0017] In certain configurations, the foot assembly comprises a wheeled foot assembly, with the plurality of support feet each comprising a wheel attached thereto.

[0018] In certain configurations, the bar defines a central axis of the construction jack, and wherein the support pole is collinear with the central axis, such that a weight of the load supported by the construction jack is transferred down the support pole and to the plurality of support feet.

[0019] In certain configurations, the support pole comprises an extendable telescopic pole including a pair of telescopic segments.

[0020] In certain configurations, the lifting and lowering tool further includes an adapter configured to join the foot assembly to the bar, with the adapter comprising a body, a slot provided on a top surface of the body and configured to receive the bottom end of the bar, and a retainer configured to secure the bottom end of the bar in the slot.

[0021] In certain configurations, the adapter comprises a threaded aperture formed in a bottom surface of the body and configured to engage a threaded top end of the support pole.

[0022] Also provided herein is a lifting and lowering tool for supporting a load. The lifting and lowering tool includes a construction jack comprising a bar comprising a bottom end and a top end and a movable assembly engaged with the bar and movable therealong, the movable assembly comprising a movable platform. The lifting and lowering tool also includes a telescoping pole accessory joined to the bottom end of the bar, the telescoping pole accessory comprising a connecting pole that connects to the bar, a telescoping leg slidably connected to the connecting pole so as to extend from or retract towards the connecting pole, where the telescoping leg may be locked into a fixed position relative to the connecting pole by a retainer, and an articulating foot connected to the telescoping leg opposite from the connecting pole, the articulating foot connected to the telescoping leg by a rotating member so as to be moveable in a bidirectional or multidirectional manner.

[0023] In certain configurations, the rotating member comprises a rotating rod that permits both axial rotation as well as a lengthening of the telescoping pole accessory.

[0024] In certain configurations, the lifting and lowering tool further includes a platform lift accessory removably coupled to the construction jack so that movement of the movableassembly raises or lowers the platform lift accessory, the platform lift accessory comprising a platform lift housing and a platform lift mast retained by the platform lift housing and extending out therefrom.

[0025] In certain configurations, the platform lift accessory comprises an extension platform provided at a top end of the platform lift mast that is configured to support the load.

[0026] In certain configurations, the lifting and lowering tool further includes a second telescoping pole accessory joined to a top end of the platform lift mast. The second telescoping pole accessory comprises a connecting pole that connects to the platform lift mast, a telescoping leg slidably connected to the connecting pole so as to extend from or retract towards the connecting pole, where the telescoping leg may be locked into a fixed position relative to the connecting pole by a retainer, and an articulating foot connected to the telescoping leg opposite from the connecting pole, the articulating foot connected to the telescoping leg by a rotating member so as to be moveable in a bidirectional or multidirectional manner.

[0027] Also provided herein is a lifting and lowering tool for supporting a load. The lifting and lowering tool includes a construction jack comprising a base, a bar extending from the base and defining a central axis of the construction jack, and a movable assembly engaged with the bar and movable therealong, the movable assembly comprising a movable platform. The lifting and lowering tool also includes a platform lift accessory removably coupled to the construction jack so that movement of the movable assembly raises or lowers the platform lift accessory. The platform lift accessory comprises a platform lift housing and a platform lift mast retained by the platform lift housing and extending out therefrom, wherein the platform lift mast has a telescoping configuration that may extend away from the platform lift housing, with the platform lift mast comprising an extension arm that may slide relative to the platform lift mast, the extension arm including a plurality of pairs of holes formed therein spaced out along a length of the extension arm. The platform lift accessory also comprises an extension platform provided at a top end of the platform lift mast that is configured to support the load, a pair of telescoping lock levers configured to selectively engage with a respective pair of holes to lock the extension arm in place, and a pair of assembly lock levers configured to secure the platform lift accessory to the movable assembly.

[0028] In certain configurations, each of the pair of telescoping lock levers and pair of assembly lock levers comprises a housing secured to or forming part of the platform lift housing or platform lift mast, a toggle member retained by the housing and pivotable relative thereto, the toggle member including a finger press and a locking pin on opposing ends thereof, with the locking pin oriented generally orthogonal to a lengthwise direction of the toggle member,and a spring retained between the housing and the toggle member that biases the toggle member, wherein the toggle member is actuatable between a default, locked position and an actuated, unlocked position, with the spring biasing the toggle member to the default, locked position.

[0029] In certain configurations, with the toggle member of each of the pair of telescoping lock levers in the default, locked position, the extension arm is locked relative to the platform lift mast, and wherein with the toggle member of each of the pair of telescoping lock levers in the actuated, unlocked position, the extension arm is allowed to slide and move relative to the platform lift mast.

[0030] In certain configurations, the locking pin of each of the pair of assembly lock levers is configured to engage an accessory engagement hole formed in the movable assembly, to lock the platform lift accessory to the movable assembly.

[0031] In certain configurations, the platform lift mast comprises a lower mast stop and an upper mast stop and the extension arm comprises an arm stop, where engagement of the arm stop and the lower mast stop defines a fully retracted position of the extension arm within the platform lift mast and engagement of the arm stop and the upper mast stop defines a fully extended position of the extension arm relative to the platform lift mast, with the upper mast stop preventing complete removal of the extension arm from the platform lift mast.Brief Description of the Drawings:

[0032] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a platform lift accessory, according to a non-limiting embodiment described herein;

[0033] FIGS. 2A is a side view of the platform lift accessory of FIG. 1, shown being assembled on a construction jack, according to a non-limiting embodiment described herein;

[0034] FIG. 2B is a side view of the platform lift accessory of FIG. 1, shown fully assembled on a construction jack;

[0035] FIG. 2C is a detailed view of Area A of FIG. 2B;

[0036] FIG. 2D is a detailed view of Area B of FIG. 2B;

[0037] FIG. 3A is a side view of the platform lift accessory and construction jack of FIGS. 2A and 2B, with the platform lift and construction jack each in a lowered configuration;

[0038] FIG. 3B is a side view of the platform lift accessory and construction jack of FIGS. 2A and 2B, with the platform lift accessory in a raised configuration and the construction jack in a lowered configuration;

[0039] FIG. 3C is a side view of the platform lift accessory and construction jack of FIGS. 2A and 2B, with the platform lift accessory and construction jack each in a raised configuration;

[0040] FIG. 4A is a side view of a platform lift accessory assembled on a construction jack, and with the platform lift accessory in a lowered configuration, according to another nonlimiting embodiment described herein;

[0041] FIG. 4B is a side view of the platform lift accessory of FIG. 4A shown assembled on the construction jack, and with the platform lift accessory in a raised configuration;

[0042] FIG. 5A is a top view of an extension platform included on the platform lift accessory of FIG. 4A, according to a non-limiting embodiment described herein;

[0043] FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the extension platform of FIG. 5A;

[0044] FIG. 5C is a front view of the extension platform of FIG. 5A;

[0045] FIG. 5D is a sideview of the extension platform of FIG. 5A;

[0046] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a multi-faced extension platform that may be included on the platform lift accessory of FIG. 1 or FIG. 4A, according to a non-limiting embodiment described herein;

[0047] FIG. 7A is a perspective view of the platform lift accessory and construction jack of FIG. 2A, with a multi-faced extension platform attached to the platform lift accessory in a first orientation, according to a non-limiting embodiment described herein;

[0048] FIG. 7B shows the platform lift accessory and construction jack of FIG. 7A, with the multi-faced extension platform attached to the platform lift accessory in a second orientation;

[0049] FIG. 7C shows the platform lift accessory and construction jack of FIG. 7A, with the multi-faced extension platform attached to the platform lift accessory in a third orientation;

[0050] FIG. 7D shows the platform lift accessory and construction jack of FIG. 7A, with the multi-faced extension platform attached to the platform lift accessory in a fourth orientation;

[0051] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a construction jack with a platform lift accessory mounted thereon, and with the construction jack mounted on an extendable support foot platform, according to a non-limiting embodiment described herein;

[0052] FIG. 9A is a top perspective view of an adapter useable with a construction jack, according to a non-limiting embodiment described herein;

[0053] FIG. 9B is a bottom perspective view of the adapter of FIG. 9A;

[0054] FIG. 9C is a perspective view of a construction jack mounted on an extendable support foot platform using the adapter of FIG. 9A;

[0055] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an assembled construction jack, platform lift accessory, and telescoping pole accessory, with each of the platform lift accessory and telescoping poleaccessory mounted to the construction jack, according to a non-limiting embodiment described herein;

[0056] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an assembled construction jack, platform lift accessory, and two telescoping pole accessories, with the platform lift accessory and a first telescoping pole accessory mounted to the construction jack and with a second telescoping pole accessory mounted to the platform lift accessory, according to a non-limiting embodiment described herein;

[0057] FIG. 12A is a perspective view of an assembled construction jack, platform lift accessory, and wheeled foot assembly, with each of the platform lift accessory and wheeled foot assembly mounted to the construction jack, according to a non-limiting embodiment described herein;

[0058] FIG. 12B is a perspective view of the assembled construction jack, platform lift accessory, and wheeled foot assembly of FIG. 12A, and with a telescoping pole accessory further mounted to the platform lift accessory, according to a non-limiting embodiment described herein;

[0059] FIG. 13A and 13B are perspective views of a platform lift accessory, according to another non-limiting embodiment described herein;

[0060] FIG. 14A is a side view of a lock lever included in the platform lift accessory of FIGS. 13A and 13B, with the lock lever in a default, locked position;

[0061] FIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view of the lock lever of FIG. 14A;

[0062] FIG. 14C is a side view of a lock lever included in the platform lift accessory of FIGS. 13A and 13B, with the lock lever in an actuated, unlocked position;

[0063] FIG. 14D is a cross-sectional view of the lock lever of FIG. 14C;

[0064] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the platform lift accessory of FIGS. 13A and 13B, taken along line 15-15 of FIG. 13A;

[0065] FIG. 16A is a perspective view of the platform lift accessory of FIGS. 13A and 13B, shown assembled on a construction jack, according to a non-limiting embodiment described herein; and

[0066] FIG. 16B is a cross-sectional view of the platform lift accessory and construction jack of FIG. 16A, taken along line 16B-16B.Detailed Description of the Invention:

[0067] Aspects of the disclosure are discussed with reference to the appended Figures.

[0068] It may be appreciated that a construction jack may have a maximum reach defined by a bar thereof that a movable platform may extend along. An accessory may extend the working elevation off of the floor or extend reach above the construction jack to provide incremental lifting, lowering, and leveling of jobsite materials.

[0069] Figure 1 illustrates a platform lift accessory 10 that can be coupled with a construction jack, as described below. In the illustrated embodiment, the platform lift accessory 10 has a front load configuration, where a load is configured to be supported balanced over a movable platform of the construction jack. The platform lift accessory 10 includes a platform lift housing 20 and a platform lift mast 30. The platform lift mast 30 may extend from the platform lift housing 20 and may terminate in an extension platform 40 or a coupling thereto. In some embodiments, the platform lift mast 30 may have a telescoping configuration or otherwise adjustably extend from the platform lift housing 20, where the extension platform 40 is mounted to an extension arm 50 that may slide relative to the platform lift mast 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the extension arm 50 includes a plurality of holes 60 along its length, where a retention pin 70 (which in some embodiments may be spring loaded) may selectively engage with one of the holes 60 to hold the extension arm 50, and thus the extension platform 40, above the platform lift mast 30. As further shown and described below, in some embodiments the platform lift housing 20 or other portions of the platform lift accessory 10 may include a collar 80 and / or a retention screw 90, which may assist in securing the platform lift accessory 10 to a construction jack.

[0070] Figures 2A-2B illustrate an embodiment of assembly of the platform lift accessory 10 onto a construction jack 100 having a base 110, a bar 120 extending therefrom, and a movable assembly 130 that moves along the bar relative to the base 110, so as to raise or lower a movable platform 140. In the illustrated embodiment, the base comprises a foot (hereafter, “foot 110”) configured to be supported on a surface, but it is recognized that the base 110 could be another accessory that attaches below the construction jack 100, such as an extendable support foot platform, telescoping pole accessory, or wheeled foot assembly that supports the construction jack 100, as explained in detail below. In some embodiments, the movable assembly 130 includes a lifting actuator 170 and a lowering actuator 180 that are actuatable by a user to cause movement of the movable assembly 130 along the bar 120. To assemble the platform lift accessory 10 onto the construction jack 100, a user may slide the collar 80 of the platform lift accessory 10 down the bar 120 of the construction jack 100, so that the platform lift assembly 10 (e.g., the platform lift housing 20 or the platform lift mast 30) rests on top of the movable platform 140.

[0071] As shown in Figure 2B, in an embodiment the retention screw 90 may hold the platform lift housing 20 onto the movable platform 140 or a member (e.g., a flange 150) fixed thereto. Further shown in Figure 2B is that in an embodiment the extension platform 40 may be removably attached to the extension arm 50 or the platform lift mast 30 so that it may be removed and changed to a different accessory. In the illustrated embodiment, the extension platform 40 is secured by a threaded fastener 160, but in other embodiments, a quick release similar to the retention pin 70 may alternatively be utilized.

[0072] Moving to Figures 3A-C, extension of the platform lift accessory 10 is illustrated to give differing amounts of reach when assembled on the construction jack 100. For example, as shown in Figure 3A, the extension platform 40 may be a distance X from the foot 110 (e.g., approximately 18”) when the platform lift accessory 10 is installed but the extension arm 50 is recessed fully into the platform lift mast 30. By extending the extension arm 50 outward from the platform lift mast 30, as shown in Figure 3B, the extension platform 40 may begin at up to a distance Y from the foot 110 (e.g., up to approximately 30.5” from the foot 110) prior to raising the movable assembly 130 up the bar 120. Accordingly, with actuation of the movable assembly 130 along the bar 120 away from the foot 110, as shown in Figure 3C, the extension platform 40 may be raised as high as a distance Z from the foot (e.g., up to approximately 39.5” above the foot 110 in some embodiments).

[0073] Figures 4 A and 4B illustrate an alternative embodiment of a platform lift accessory 200 which may mount to the construction jack 100, to collectively provide what may be termed as a lifting and lowering tool 1200. As shown, the platform lift accessory 200 may be configured to support a load above the bar 120, which may define a central axis 210 of the construction jack 100. By aligning the platform lift accessory 200 along the central axis 210, the load may be in line with a center point of the foot 110 or any accessory that attaches below the construction jack 100 in place of the foot 110.

[0074] The platform lift accessory 200 may include a platform lift housing 220 and a platform lift mast 230. As shown, the platform lift mast 230 of the platform lift accessory 200 may have a tubular configuration that slides over and down the bar 120. The platform lift mast 230 may extend from the platform lift housing 220 and may terminate in an extension platform 240 that also slides down the bar 120. In some embodiments, such as that pictured, the bar 120 may protrude from the extension platform 240 prior to raising the extension platform 240 from the foot 110 in some manner. In some embodiments, the platform lift mast 230 may have a telescoping configuration or otherwise adjustably extend from the platform lift housing 220, where the extension platform 240 is mounted to an extension arm 250 that may slide relativeto the platform lift mast 230. In the illustrated embodiment, the extension arm 250 may also be telescopic to the bar 120. Extension or retraction of the extension arm 250 relative to the platform lift mast 230 may be through any appropriate mechanism, including something similar to the plurality of holes 60 and retention pin 70 described above, or may comprise a locking collar 260 which may lock the extension arm 250 relative to the platform lift mast 230 through an interface engagement, frictional holding, or other appropriate engagement that is rated to support an intended load for the construction jack 100 and the platform lift accessory 200.

[0075] It may be appreciated that the platform lift housing 220 may be configured to be supported on the movable platform 140 such that actuation of the movable assembly 130 lifts upward on the platform lift housing 220. In some embodiments, the platform lift housing 220 may rest entirely on the housing of the movable assembly adjacent to the bar 120 such that a load on the extension platform 240 is distributed to the foot through the housing of the movable assembly 130 as it engages the bar, without reliance on transferring the load through the platform lift housing 220 resting on the movable platform 140. In some embodiments the load may be transferred to the foot 110 through both the platform lift mast 230 resting on the movable assembly 130 and the platform lift housing 220 resting on the movable platform 140.

[0076] As described above, the platform lift mast 230 of the platform lift accessory 200 may have a tubular configuration that slides over and down the bar 120. With the platform lift mast 230 slid over and down the bar 120, the platform lift accessory 200 is aligned along the central axis 210 with the extension platform 240 and the load supported thereby thus also aligned along the central axis 210 and in line with the center point of the foot 110 (or any accessory that attaches below the construction jack 100 in place of the foot 110).

[0077] Figures 5A-D illustrate the embodiment of the extension platform 240 in greater detail, where Figure 5A shows a top view, Figure 5B shows a perspective view, Figure 5C shows a front view and Figure 5D shows a side view. It may be appreciated that a rear view may by a mirror of the front view, and that the side view could be either or both of the left and right side.

[0078] As shown, the extension platform 240 may include a top surface 270 which may provide a planar region to support a load thereon. In some embodiments, the top surface 270 may include therein one or more through holes 280, which may be used to secure lumber or other building material to the top surface 270, e.g. through threaded fasteners, bar clamps, screw clamps, or other securing mechanisms, which may facilitate ad hoc extensions onto the extension platform 240, or greater secure more sizable loads. It may be appreciated that such through holes may be distinct from a through hole 290 shaped to receive the bar 120 of the construction jack.

[0079] In some embodiments, the extension platform 240 may have one or more channels formed therein to hold onto various conventional sizes or shapes of objects. For example, in the illustrated embodiment the extension platform 240 includes a rectangular channel 300, which may be sized for receiving lumber. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the channel 300 may be approximately a inches wide, which in an embodiment may be approximately 1.7 inches wide (or otherwise just slightly greater than 1.5 inches wide). In some embodiments, the channel 300 may also be approximately a inches deep (e.g., recessed from the top surface 270). It may therefore be appreciated that such an approximate size may be sized to hold 2x4 dimensional lumber in some embodiments (either or both of US and EU sizing). As shown, in some embodiments one or more of the through holes 280 may be formed in a base of the channel 300 or in the sides of the channel 300, to further assist in securing something placed in the channel 300 to the extension platform 240, such as through the mechanisms discussed above.

[0080] As further shown, the extension platform 240 may additionally or alternatively include a V-shaped or U-shaped groove or channel, which may be configured to aid in holding pipe or round objects therein. In the illustrated embodiment, a channel 320 has a V-shape, and extends transverse to the channel 300.

[0081] Turning to Figure 6, an alternative embodiment of an extension platform is shown, which may provide for versatile functionality as engaging with a platform lift accessory such as those otherwise described above as platform lift accessory 10 or platform lift accessory 200. Specifically, extension platform 330 may be configured to be received on a platform lift mast such as platform lift mast 30 or platform lift mast 230, and may be rotatable so that it may mate with such platform lift masts in a variety of orientations, where multiple orientations provide differing benefits, or accommodate differing materials. For example, as shown in Figure 6, extension platform 330 includes a first side 340 which may include a channel 350 for holding lumber (similar to channel 300 of extension platform 240). Where the channel 350 may be configured to hold lumber extending transverse to the axis 210 described previously (e.g., in a horizontal orientation), the first side 340 may also include a slot 360 for holding dimensional lumber at an end thereof, such that the lumber extends parallel to the axis 210 (e.g., in a vertical orientation). In some embodiments, apertures 370 may be formed adjacent to the channel 350 so as to facilitate securing a load (e.g., lumber) received in the channel 350 to the extension platform 330. Apertures 380 may additionally or alternatively be positioned to engage into lumber inserted in the slot 360 (but where the slots 360 intersects with the channel 350, the apertures 380 may be useful in securing into a load received in the channel 350).

[0082] Opposite from the first side 340 in the illustrated embodiment is a second side 390 which may include a platform surface 400. The platform surface 400 may be generally flat and may provide a planar exterior for large surface contact and stability. It may be appreciated that a slot 410 may be formed on the first side 340 to receive a platform lift mast such as platform lift mast 30 or platform lift mast 230, so that the platform surface 400 is exposed opposite of the mast to support the load thereon. Likewise, although obscured from view, a slot similar to slot 410 may be formed on the second side 390, so that receipt of the platform lift mast therein exposes the first side 340 to an intended load. As shown in Figure 6, in some embodiments an aperture 380 may extend through the slot 410, so that a connection (e.g., a threaded fastener) may be secured against lumber in the slot 360 when the platform lift mast is not present in the slot 410.

[0083] A third side 420 is also shown on the extension platform 330, which in the illustrated embodiment includes a V-shaped channel 430 or groove to facilitate irregular shapes or larger diameter materials. A fourth side 440 is included in the illustrated embodiment, and as shown includes a semi-circular channel 450 which can accommodate pipes or cylindrical objects. Shown in the illustrated extension platform 330, a slot 460 is formed on the third side 420 to receive a platform lift mast, so that the fourth side 440 is exposed to an intended load. While obscured, it may be appreciated that the fourth side 440 may include a slot similar to slot 460 (and in some embodiments may be an extension of slot 460 extending therethrough).

[0084] Figures 7A-7D illustrate various orientations of an extension platform 470 mounted on the mast 30 of the platform lift accessory 10 while the platform lift accessory 10 is mounted on the construction jack 100. The extension platform 470 may be generally similar to the extension platform 330 as described above in some embodiments, and like features will be numbered identically. Notably, however, the illustrated embodiment of extension platform 470 lacks the slot 360 alongside the channel 350. In Figure 7A the mast 30 is mounted into a slot 480 formed on the side 390 (more easily seen in Figure 7B). Figures 7C and 7D likewise show the semicircular channel 450 and the V-channel 430 exposed to support a load respectively.

[0085] It may be appreciated that in some embodiments, an accessory for construction jacks such as the construction jack 100 may include removal of or further support of the foot 110. Turning to Figure 8, the construction jack 100 is pictured with the platform lift accessory 10 mounted thereon to collectively provide a lifting and lowering tool 1200. Notably, the foot 110 has been removed and the bar 120 has been mounted to a tripod or similar extendable support foot platform 500. As shown, the extendable support foot platform 500 includes a support pole 510 that mounts to the bar 120 of the construction jack 100. When the extendable support footplatform 500 is a tripod or has a similar multi-footed configuration, extendable support feet 520 of the extendable support foot platform 500 may provide lateral stability when folded out, and may telescopically collapse and / or fold in towards the support pole 510 for ease of transport.

[0086] The extendable support feet 520 may terminate in slip resistant ends 530 (e.g., of rubber or similar high friction material) to firmly plant the extendable support foot platform 500 onto a work surface S. Weight of material supported by the construction jack 100 is transferred down main a center axis of the support pole 510, which may be appreciated to be collinear with the axis 210 in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the support pole 510 and each of the slip resistant ends 530 or other ends of the feet 520 may all be configured to contact the work surface S (e.g., a floor) together, so that force remains in a vertical orientation and is not significantly spread outwards by the feet 520.

[0087] As further shown, in some embodiments the support pole 510 may itself be telescopically increasable in size. For example, in the illustrated embodiment the support pole 510 includes telescopic segments 510a and 510b that leverage retention pins 540 and through holes 550, allowing the segments 510a and 510b to extend relative to the support pole 510 engaging the bar 120. Accordingly, the construction jack 100 can raise or lower a load incrementally starting at a greater height than possible with the foot 110 alone, in an adjustable manner.

[0088] Figure 9A illustrates an adapter 600 configured to be secured to the bar 120 of the construction jack 100 replacing the foot 110. As shown, the adapter 600 has a retainer 610 (e.g., a set screw or pin) that engages the bar 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the bar 120 is received in a slot 620 that extends from a body 630 of the adapter 600 (e.g., either the housing 630 protruding outward with the slot 620 within as shown, or the slot 620 being recessed into a top surface of the housing 630). The slot 620 may be sized appropriately to receive the bar 120 or may be larger and sized to receive the foot 110.

[0089] As shown in Figure 9B, an opposing face of the body 630 may comprise a threaded aperture 640, which may be of a size commonly utilized with construction equipment such as tripods or laser level mounting brackets. Such threading may also be common with photographic equipment. For example, the aperture 640 may be sized 5 / 8” - 11 threads per inch. As such, and as shown on Figure 9C, the adapter 600 may be easily threaded on a heavy- duty tripod stand, such as illustrated tripod 650, having such a standard threaded mating post. In the illustrated embodiment, the tripod 650 is a DEW ALT heavy duty construction tripodmarketed as model number DW0737. It may be appreciated that other conventional threading sizes for aperture 640 may facilitate adapters 600 being used with other conventional tripods.

[0090] Through replacement of the foot 110 and / or assembly of a platform lift accessory onto the construction jack 100, it may be appreciated that the incremental jacking or spreading ability of the construction jack 100 may be further leveraged in additional purposes.

[0091] Figure 10 illustrates a telescoping pole accessory 700 that may be joined to a construction jack 100 (to collectively provide a lifting and lowering tool 1200), with the telescoping pole accessory 700 replacing the foot 110 of the construction jack 100 by mounting onto the bar 120 (e.g., forming a telescoping base assembly). The movable assembly 130 may allow movement along the bar 120, while the platform lift accessory 10 extends the extension platform 40 above the bar 120, while the telescoping pole accessory 700 facilitates a variable height at which the bar 120 is raised from the ground or other bearing surface. As shown, the telescoping pole accessory 700 may contain a connecting pole 710 that connects to the bar 120. Such connection may be through an engagement similar to the slot 620 as described above, with or without retainer 610, or by any other appropriate connection.

[0092] Further shown on the telescoping pole accessory 700 is a telescoping leg 720 slidably connected to the connecting pole 710. The telescoping leg 720 may extend from or retract towards the connecting pole 710, and may be locked into a fixed position relative to the connecting pole 710 by a retainer 730. In some embodiments the retainer 730 may comprise a spring-loaded retention pin and through holes formed in the telescoping leg 720 and the connecting pole 710. Such a configuration may be similar to the extension arm 50 including a plurality of holes 60 along its length, and the retention pin 70, as described above.

[0093] In some embodiments, the telescoping pole accessory 700 may terminate in an articulating foot 740 (e.g., the articulating foot 740 connected to the telescoping leg 720). In some embodiments, the articulating foot 740 may move in a bidirectional manner (e.g., a hinged connection) or multidirectional manner (e.g., as a ball and socket joint) so that load applied to the construction jack 100 may be transferred to a non-perpendicular surface on which the articulating foot 740 rests. In some embodiments, the articulating foot 740 may be coupled to the telescoping leg 720 by a rotating member 750. Where the articulating foot 740 is hingedly connected to the rotating member 750, rotation of the rotating member may permit a desired axial rotation to the bidirectional movement. In some embodiments, the rotating member 750 may comprise a rotating rod which may both permit axial rotation as well as further extending the length of the telescoping pole accessory 700.

[0094] As shown in Figure 11, in some embodiments the telescoping pole accessory 700 may be configured to alternatively mate with the bar 120 or the platform lift mast 30. As such, by assembling the connecting pole 710 on the platform lift mast 30, the articulating foot 740 may extend above the bar 120 (e.g., to support a load at an angle, such as dry wall for a vaulted ceiling). Similarly, the telescoping leg 720 extending from the connecting pole 710 may facilitate gross height adjustment, that once the initial gross height setting is established the construction jack 100 may then facilitate load lifting therefrom. Furthermore, as illustrated, by utilizing a telescoping base accessory mounted to the platform lift mast 30 and a telescoping base accessory mounted to the bar 120, articulating feet 740 may be provided at opposing ends of the construction jack 100, allowing for angled load distribution at opposing ends of the assembly, with the construction jack 100 acting as an extended spreader or lifter.

[0095] Other foot mechanisms may further facilitate movability of the construction jack 100. For example, as shown in Figures 12A and 12B, a wheeled foot assembly 800 may be joined to a construction jack 100 to collectively provide another configuration of a lifting and lowering tool 1200. The wheeled foot assembly 800 may couple to the bar 120 and include a wheeled base 810 with a connector pole 820 (or “support pole”). In some embodiments, the connector pole 820 may include a slot similar to the slot 620 as described above and may connect to the bar 120 with or without a retainer similar to the retainer 610 shown above. It may be appreciated that with the wheeled base 810 may facilitate easily moving a load supported by the construction jack 100 or may facilitate moving the construction jack assembly (e.g., with the platform lift accessory 10 shown in Figure 12A or with the telescoping pole accessory 700 as shown in Figure 12B) into a desired position.

[0096] In some embodiments the wheeled base may have a lock mechanism thereon to lock one or more wheels thereof from rotation to prevent inadvertent movement. In some embodiments the wheeled base may have wheels coupled by rotatable casters to facilitate omnidirectional rolling. It may also be appreciated that in some embodiments the connector pole 820 may further be telescopic, such as through inclusion of a telescoping member contacts and connects to the bar 820, where the telescoping member may be locked into a fixed position relative to the connecting pole 820 by a retainer. In some embodiments the retainer may be similar to the retainer 730, and may comprise a spring-loaded retention pin and through holes formed in the telescoping member and the connecting pole 810. Such a configuration may be similar to the extension arm 50 including a plurality of holes 60 along its length, and the retention pin 70, as also described above.

[0097] Referring now to Figures 13A and 13B, an alternative embodiment of a platform lift accessory 900 is illustrated. The platform lift accessory 900 is generally similar to the platform lift accessory 10 shown and described in FIG. 1, in that it includes a platform lift housing 920, a platform lift mast 930, an extension arm 950 that may slide relative to the platform lift mast 930, and an extension platform 940 mounted to the extension arm 950 or a coupling thereto. In the illustrated embodiment, the extension arm 950 includes a plurality of pairs of holes 960 formed along its length, along with a pair of spring-loaded telescoping lock levers 970 that may selectively engage with a respective pair of holes 960 to hold the extension arm 950, and thus the extension platform 940, above the platform lift mast 930. As further shown and described below, in some embodiments the platform lift housing 920 may include a collar 980 and a pair of spring-loaded assembly lock levers 990, which may assist in securing the platform lift accessory 900 to a construction jack.

[0098] A more detailed view of the telescoping lock levers 970 and assembly lock levers 990 (which may have an identical construction) is shown in Figures 14A-14D. Each of the levers 970, 990 includes a housing 1000 that may be secured to (or form part of) platform lift housing 920 or platform lift mast 930, a toggle member 1010 retained by the housing 1000 and pivotable relative thereto, and a spring 1020 retained between the housing 1000 and toggle member 1010 that biases the toggle member 1010 to a default position. The toggle member 1010 may be characterized as including a finger press 1030 and a locking pin 1040 on opposing ends thereof, with the locking pin 1040 oriented generally orthogonal to a lengthwise direction of the toggle member 1010. In use of the levers 970, 990, the finger press 1030 may be engaged and depressed by a user (with a force sufficient to overcome a spring force of spring 1020) to actuate the levers 970, 990 from a default, locked position to an actuated, unlocked position.

[0099] With respect to operation of the telescoping lock levers 970, engagement and depression of the finger press 1030 of both levers 970, such as via a pinching force being applied to the finger press 1030 of both levers 970, causes the locking pins 1040 to pull out from and disengage from a respective pair of holes 960 of extension arm 950, allowing for sliding movement of the extension arm 950 relative to the platform lift mast 930. The locking pins 1040 may then re-engage with a desired pair of holes 960 of extension arm 950 upon a user removing a pinching force from the finger press 1030 of the levers 970, with the spring 1020 of each lever 970 biasing the locking pins 1040 back toward their default, locked position and the locking pins 1040 engaging holes 960 upon coming into alignment therewith. Beneficially, inclusion of a pair of telescoping lock levers 970 (on opposing sides of lift mast 930) ensuresthat the user will not accidentally release the extension arm 950 while the platform lift accessory 900 is under load.

[0100] With respect to operation of the assembly lock levers 990, engagement and depression of the finger press 1030 of both levers 990, or alternatively a pushing force being applied against the locking pins 1040, may cause the toggle members 1010 to rotate. This rotation of the toggle members 1010 may selectively allow for the locking pins 1040 to engage and / or disengage with a pair of pin retention hole formed in a construction jack to which the platform lift accessory is to be joined, as explained in further detail below. Actuation of the toggle members 1010 in this manner allows for selective engagement and disengagement of the platform lift accessory 900 with the construction jack.

[0101] In some embodiments, and as best shown in FIG. 15, an arrangement of mechanical stops may be provided on platform lift accessory 900 that limit movement of the extension arm 950 relative to platform lift mast 930, in order to prevent complete disengagement / removal of the extension arm 950 relative to platform lift mast 930. In particular, a lower mast stop 1050 and an upper mast stop 1060 may be provided on platform lift mast 930, while an arm stop 1070 may be provided on extension arm 950. Engagement of the arm stop 1070 and the lower mast stop 1050 defines a fully retracted position of the extension arm 950 within the platform lift mast 930, while engagement of the arm stop 1070 and the upper mast stop 1060 defines a fully extended position of the extension arm 950 relative to the platform lift mast 930. Engagement of the arm stop 1070 and the upper mast stop 1060 prevents a further extension of the extension arm 950 out from the platform lift mast 930 that might cause the extension arm 950 to be fully removed / disengaged from the platform lift mast 930, which is undesirable, especially if the platform lift accessory 900 is under load.

[0102] Figures 16A and 16B illustrate the platform lift accessory 900 assembled onto a construction jack 100 to collectively provide another configuration of a lifting and lowering tool 1200. The construction jack 100 includes a foot 110, a bar 120 extending therefrom, and a movable assembly 130 that moves along the bar 120 relative to the foot 110, so as to raise or lower a movable platform 140 of the movable assembly 130.

[0103] To assemble the platform lift accessory 900 onto the construction jack 100, a user may slide the collar 980 of the platform lift accessory 900 down the bar 120 of the construction jack 100, with the platform lift accessory 900 being lowered down bar 120 while at an angle. The platform lift accessory 900 is lowered in this manner until the platform lift housing 920 approaches the movable platform 140 of movable assembly 130. When at this position, the platform lift housing 920 is rotated toward the movable assembly 130, and an initial pinchingforce may optionally be applied to lock levers 990. As the platform lift housing 920 is rotated toward the movable assembly 130, the locking pins 1040 of assembly lock levers 990 contact the movable assembly 130, with a pressure thus being applied to the locking pins 1040 that causes the assembly lock levers 990 to actuate from their default, locked position toward their actuated, unlocked position. The locking pins 1040 slide along an outer housing surface of the movable assembly 130 until becoming aligned with accessory engagement holes 170 formed in the movable assembly 130 and, upon being aligned with the accessory engagement holes 170, the spring force provided by springs 1020 causes each of the locking pins 1040 to be pushed into the accessory engagement holes 170, with the assembly lock levers being actuated to their default, locked position. The assembly lock levers 990 (in combination with collar 980) thus hold the platform lift housing 920 onto the movable assembly 130 and movable platform 140 (or a flange 150 fixed thereto).

[0104] With the platform lift accessory 900 assembled onto the construction jack 100, the extension arm 950 may be moved (i.e., raised) relative to the platform lift mast 930 via selective actuation of the telescoping lock levers 970. As explained above, application of a pinching force to the finger press 1030 of both levers 970 by a user can cause the locking pins 1040 to pull out from and disengage from a respective pair of holes 960 of extension arm 950. The user may then cease pinching of the finger press 1030 of the telescoping lock levers 970 and pull on extension arm 950 (or extension platform 940) in order to cause the extension arm 950 to slide relative to the platform lift mast 930. The locking pins 1040 may then automatically reengage with a desired pair of holes 960 of extension arm 950 upon the locking pins 1040 becoming aligned with the holes 960, with the springs 1020 biasing the locking pins 1040 back toward their default, locked position and causing the locking pins 1040 to engage the holes 960.

[0105] The objects, features, and characteristics of the present invention, as well as the methods of operation and functions of the related elements of structure and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, may be apparent upon consideration of the description and drawings herein, all of which form a part of this specification, In one embodiment of the invention, the structural components illustrated herein are drawn to scale. It is to be expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. In addition, it should be appreciated that structural features shown or described in any one embodiment herein can be used in other embodiments as well. As used herein, the singular form of “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0106] In various embodiments, the construction jack accessories described herein may be formed from metal, plastic, ceramic, wood, or any other appropriate material, or combinations of such materials. It may be appreciated that the components described herein may be of different constructions or configurations, including but not limited to one or more being comprised of different material choices. For example, various components described herein may each be constructed from a variety of materials, including but not limited to one or more of fabrics, plastics, metals, rubbers, elastomers, or any other appropriate material choice, such as aluminum (e.g., machined aluminum), iron (e.g., steel), ceramic, or any other appropriate material. In addition, portions of tools leveraging the above teachings may be formed from molded plastic, metal, or combinations thereof (e.g., plastic with metal supports or fasteners coupling portions together). In some embodiments, structural and functional components may be formed from metal or hard plastic, while exterior-most gripped components positioned to engage the palm of a gripping hand to provide the palm with a comfortable gripping surface may be made of a suitable molded plastic material or elastomeric material, and may be generally formed as a bi-material suitable molded plastic material coated with a layer of an elastomeric material, such as a rubber based material. In some embodiments, the material choices may differ from component to component. In various embodiments, some components may be integrally formed together, while other components may be assembled by any appropriate mechanism, including but not limited to fastened, welded, snap-fit, friction fit, adhesive bonding, or other appropriate securements.

[0107] Although the invention has been described in detail for the purpose of illustration based on what is currently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that such detail is solely for that purpose and that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but, on the contrary, is intended to cover modifications and equivalent arrangements that are within the spirit and scope inventions more specifically understood in the context of the above disclosure.

Claims

THE INVENTION CLAIMED IS:

1. A lifting and lowering tool for supporting a load, the lifting and lowering tool comprising: a construction jack comprising: a base; a bar extending from the base and defining a central axis of the construction jack; and a movable assembly engaged with the bar and movable therealong, the movable assembly comprising a movable platform; and a platform lift accessory removably coupled to the construction jack so that movement of the movable assembly raises or lowers the platform lift accessory, the platform lift accessory comprising: a platform lift housing; and a platform lift mast retained by the platform lift housing and having a tubular configuration that slides over and down the bar, the platform lift mast extending from the platform lift housing and including an extension platform at a far end thereof configured to support the load; wherein with the platform lift mast slid over and down the bar, the platform lift accessory is aligned with the central axis, with the extension platform and the load supported thereby also in line with the central axis.

2. The lifting and lowering tool of claim 1, wherein the extension platform includes a through hole formed therein shaped to receive the bar, such that the bar may protrude from the extension platform prior to raising the extension platform away from the base.

3. The lifting and lowering tool of claim 1, wherein the platform lift mast has a telescoping configuration that may extend away from the platform lift housing, with the platform lift mast comprising an extension arm that may slide relative to the platform lift mast and that is also telescopic to the bar, and wherein the extension platform is mounted to the extension arm.

4. The lifting and lowering tool of claim 1, wherein the platform lift housing is configured to be supported on the movable platform, such that actuation of the movable assembly lifts upward on the platform lift housing.

5. The lifting and lowering tool of claim 1, wherein the platform lift housing is supported on a housing of the movable assembly adjacent to the bar, such that actuation of the movable assembly lifts upward on the platform lift housing.

6. A platform lift accessory coupleable to a construction jack so that movement of a movable assembly of the construction jack raises or lowers the platform lift accessory, the platform lift accessory comprising: a platform lift housing; a platform lift mast retained by the platform lift housing and extending out therefrom; and a multi-faced extension platform connected to the platform lift mast at an end thereof opposite the platform lift housing and configured to support a load, the multi-faced extension platform configured to enable connection thereof to the platform lift mast in a plurality of different orientations and on a plurality of sides of the multi-faced extension platform.

7. The platform lift accessory of claim 6, wherein the plurality of sides of the multi-faced extension platform include at least a first side and a second side, where the first side has a different configuration than the second side, but where each of the plurality of sides includes a slot formed therein configured to engage the platform lift mast.

8. The platform lift accessory of claim 6, wherein the first side comprises one or more channels formed thereon configured to retain the load.

9. The platform lift accessory of claim 6, wherein the second side comprises a generally flat platform surface that provides a planar exterior for engaging and supporting the load.

10. The platform lift accessory of claim 6, wherein the plurality of sides further includes a third side and a fourth side having different configurations than the first side and the second side.

11. The platform lift accessory of claim 10, wherein the third side comprises a V- shaped channel or groove formed thereon and the fourth side comprises a semi-circular channel formed thereon.

12. The platform lift accessory of claim 6, wherein the platform lift mast has a telescoping configuration that may extend away from the platform lift housing, with the platform lift mast comprising an extension arm that may telescopically slide relative to the platform lift mast, and wherein the multi-faced extension platform is mounted to the extension arm.

13. A lifting and lowering tool for supporting a load, the lifting and lowering tool comprising: a construction jack comprising: a bar comprising a bottom end and a top end; and a movable assembly engaged with the bar and movable therealong, the movable assembly comprising a movable platform; and a foot assembly joined to the bottom end of the bar, the foot assembly comprising: a support pole that mounts to the bar; and a plurality of support feet extending out from the support pole.

14. The lifting and lowering tool of claim 13, wherein the foot assembly comprises a tripod-type, extendable support foot platform, with the plurality of support feet comprising a plurality of extendable support feet configured to fold out and telescopically collapse in towards the support pole.

15. The lifting and lowering tool of claim 13, wherein the foot assembly comprises a wheeled foot assembly, with the plurality of support feet each comprising a wheel attached thereto.

16. The lifting and lowering tool of claim 13, wherein the bar defines a central axis of the construction jack, and wherein the support pole is collinear with the central axis, such that a weight of the load supported by the construction jack is transferred down the support pole and to the plurality of support feet.

17. The lifting and lowering tool of claim 13, wherein the support pole comprises an extendable telescopic pole including a pair of telescopic segments.

18. The lifting and lowering tool of claim 13, further comprising an adapter configured to join the foot assembly to the bar, the adapter comprising: a body; a slot provided on a top surface of the body and configured to receive the bottom end of the bar; and a retainer configured to secure the bottom end of the bar in the slot.

19. The lifting and lowering tool of claim 18, wherein the adapter comprises a threaded aperture formed in a bottom surface of the body and configured to engage a threaded top end of the support pole.

20. A lifting and lowering tool for supporting a load, the lifting and lowering tool comprising: a construction jack comprising: a bar comprising a bottom end and a top end; and a movable assembly engaged with the bar and movable therealong, the movable assembly comprising a movable platform; and a telescoping pole accessory joined to the bottom end of the bar, the telescoping pole accessory comprising: a connecting pole that connects to the bar; a telescoping leg slidably connected to the connecting pole so as to extend from or retract towards the connecting pole, where the telescoping leg may be locked into a fixed position relative to the connecting pole by a retainer; and an articulating foot connected to the telescoping leg opposite from the connecting pole, the articulating foot connected to the telescoping leg by a rotating member so as to be moveable in a bidirectional or multidirectional manner.

21. The lifting and lowering tool of claim 20, wherein the rotating member comprises a rotating rod that permits both axial rotation as well as a lengthening of the telescoping pole accessory.

22. The lifting and lowering tool of claim 20, further comprising a platform lift accessory removably coupled to the construction jack so that movement of the movable assembly raises or lowers the platform lift accessory, the platform lift accessory comprising: a platform lift housing; and a platform lift mast retained by the platform lift housing and extending out therefrom.

23. The lifting and lowering tool of claim 22, wherein the platform lift accessory comprises an extension platform provided at a top end of the platform lift mast that is configured to support the load.

24. The lifting and lowering tool of claim 22, further comprising a second telescoping pole accessory joined to a top end of the platform lift mast, the second telescoping pole accessory comprising: a connecting pole that connects to the platform lift mast; a telescoping leg slidably connected to the connecting pole so as to extend from or retract towards the connecting pole, where the telescoping leg may be locked into a fixed position relative to the connecting pole by a retainer; and an articulating foot connected to the telescoping leg opposite from the connecting pole, the articulating foot connected to the telescoping leg by a rotating member so as to be moveable in a bidirectional or multidirectional manner.

25. A lifting and lowering tool for supporting a load, the lifting and lowering tool comprising: a construction jack comprising: a base; a bar extending from the base and defining a central axis of the construction jack; and a movable assembly engaged with the bar and movable therealong, the movable assembly comprising a movable platform; and a platform lift accessory removably coupled to the construction jack so that movement of the movable assembly raises or lowers the platform lift accessory, the platform lift accessory comprising: a platform lift housing;a platform lift mast retained by the platform lift housing and extending out therefrom, wherein the platform lift mast has a telescoping configuration that may extend away from the platform lift housing, with the platform lift mast comprising an extension arm that may slide relative to the platform lift mast, the extension arm including a plurality of pairs of holes formed therein spaced out along a length of the extension arm; an extension platform provided at a top end of the platform lift mast that is configured to support the load; a pair of telescoping lock levers configured to selectively engage with a respective pair of holes to lock the extension arm in place; and a pair of assembly lock levers configured to secure the platform lift accessory to the movable assembly.

26. The lifting and lowering tool of claim 25, wherein each of the pair of telescoping lock levers and pair of assembly lock levers comprises: a housing secured to or forming part of the platform lift housing or platform lift mast; a toggle member retained by the housing and pivotable relative thereto, the toggle member including a finger press and a locking pin on opposing ends thereof, with the locking pin oriented generally orthogonal to a lengthwise direction of the toggle member; and a spring retained between the housing and the toggle member that biases the toggle member; wherein the toggle member is actuatable between a default, locked position and an actuated, unlocked position, with the spring biasing the toggle member to the default, locked position.

27. The lifting and lowering tool of claim 26, wherein with the toggle member of each of the pair of telescoping lock levers in the default, locked position, the extension arm is locked relative to the platform lift mast, and wherein with the toggle member of each of the pair of telescoping lock levers in the actuated, unlocked position, the extension arm is allowed to slide and move relative to the platform lift mast.

28. The lifting and lowering tool of claim 26, wherein the locking pin of each of the pair of assembly lock levers is configured to engage an accessory engagement hole formed in the movable assembly, to lock the platform lift accessory to the movable assembly.

29. The lifting and lowering tool of claim 25, wherein the platform lift mast comprises a lower mast stop and an upper mast stop and the extension arm comprises an arm stop, where engagement of the arm stop and the lower mast stop defines a fully retracted position of the extension arm within the platform lift mast and engagement of the arm stop and the upper mast stop defines a fully extended position of the extension arm relative to the platform lift mast, with the upper mast stop preventing complete removal of the extension arm from the platform lift mast.

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