Lift device

Abstract

A lift device and lift assembly for lifting an object, such as a logging trailer is provided. A system comprising a lift attachable to the lift device and / or lift assembly is also provided.

Description

[0001]100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 LIFT DEVICE TECHNICAL FIELD The disclosure relates to a lift device for lifting a heavy object, such as a logging trailer. The lift device may be provided as a lift assembly and be comprised in a lift system. BACKGROUND Heavy lifting technologies are essential in various industries, enabling the safe and efficient movement of heavy objects. These technologies, including hydraulic lifts, cranes, and clamp-based systems, incorporate advanced materials, and safety features to meet the demanding requirements of modern industrial applications. In forestry and logging industries where heavy loads and challenging working conditions are common, trailer lifts may be used for loading and unloading log trailers onto a logging truck. A challenge with heavy lifting technologies, such as those including trailer lifts, is to ensure a secure grip on diverse and often irregularly shaped objects. Variability in material surfaces and weights can lead to inconsistent clamping force, posing a risk of slippage or damage. Additionally, the reliance on mechanical components means that wear and tear can compromise safety and efficiency over time. SUMMARY According to a first aspect a lift device for lifting an object is provided. The lift device comprises a body having a slot for receiving a lift portion of the object. The lift device further comprises a clamp mechanism comprising a first clamp member and a second clamp member pivotably attached to the body, wherein the first clamp member and second clamp member are symmetrically arranged in relation to a centreline of the slot, and configured to pivotably move between an open position for receiving the lift portion when the lift portion is introduced into the slot and a closed position for enclosing the lift portion. Further the lift device comprises a safety mechanism comprising a safety bracket slidably arranged to the body, wherein the safety bracket is arranged to slidably move between an unlocked position and a locked position when the first clamp member and second clamp member are in the closed position, wherein the safety bracket in its locked position is arranged to prevent the first clamp member and second clamp member from moving towards the open position. 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 According to a second aspect a lift system for lifting an object is provided. The lift system comprises a lift device as disclosed herein, and / or a lift assembly as disclosed herein, and a lift attached to the lift device or lift assembly, wherein the lift is configured to position the lift device and / or lift assembly for lifting the object, in use. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS A number of examples will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 illustrates a cross-sectional front view of a lift device in an open and unlocked position according to an example; Figure 2 illustrates a cross-sectional front view of the lift device of Figure 1 in a first intermediate and unlocked position; Figure 3 illustrates a cross-sectional front view of the lift device of Figure 1 in a second intermediate and unlocked position; Figure 4 illustrates a cross-sectional front view of the lift device of Figure 4 in a closed position and locked position; Figures 5A and 5B show the lift devices of Figures 1 and 4 wherein a longitudinal position of the distalmost interior clamp surface is identified for the open position and closed position; Figures 6A and 6B show the lift devices of Figures 1 and 4 wherein a longitudinal position of the outermost ends of the safety bracket arms are identified for the open position and closed position; Figure 7A shows a cross-sectional front view of a lift device in the open position according to an example; Figure 7B shows the lift device of Figure 7A in the closed position; Figure 8 shows a perspective view the lift device of Figures 1 to 4; Figure 9 shows a front view of the lift device of Figure 8; Figure 10A illustrates a cross-sectional front view of a lift device in an open and unlocked position according to an example; Figure 10B illustrates a side view of a lift device of Figure 10A, with a front cover removed for clarity; Figure 10C illustrates a side view of a lift device of Figures 10A and 10B; Figure 11A illustrates a cross-sectional front view of the lift device of Figure 10A in a first intermediate and unlocked position according to an example; Figure 11B illustrates a side view of a lift device of Figure 11A, with a front cover removed for clarity; 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 Figure 11C illustrates a side view of a lift device of Figures 11A and 11B; Figure 12A illustrates a cross-sectional front view of the lift device of Figure 10A in a second intermediate and unlocked position according to an example; Figure 12B illustrates a side view of a lift device of Figure 12A, with a front cover removed for clarity; Figure 12C illustrates a side view of a lift device of Figures 12A and 12B; Figure 13A illustrates a cross-sectional front view of the lift device of Figure 10A in a closed and locked position according to an example; Figure 13B illustrates a side view of a lift device of Figure 13A, with a front cover removed for clarity; Figure 13C illustrates a side view of a lift device of Figures 13A and 13B; Figure 14 illustrates a rear view of the lift device of Figures 10A to 13C; Figure 15 illustrates a front perspective view of the lift device of Figures 10A to 14; Figure 16A illustrates a perspective front view of a clamp member for use in the lift device according to an example; Figure 16B illustrates a front view of the clamp member of Figure 16A; Figure 16C illustrates a side view of the clamp member of Figures 16A and 16B; Figure 17 illustrates a perspective front view of a safety bracket for use in the lift device according to an example; Figure 18 illustrates a perspective view of a lift assembly according to an example; Figure 19 illustrates a front view of the lift assembly of Figure 18; Figure 20 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the lift assembly of Figures 18 to 19; Figure 21 illustrates a side view of the lift assembly of Figures 18 to 20; Figure 22 illustrates a perspective view of a spacer element according to an example; Figure 23 illustrates a cross-sectional front view of a lift assembly in an open and unlocked position according to an example; Figure 24 illustrates a cross-sectional front view of the lift assembly of Figure 23 in a first intermediate and unlocked position; Figure 25 illustrates a cross-sectional front view of the lift assembly of Figures 23 and 24 in a second intermediate and unlocked position; Figure 26 illustrates a cross-sectional front view of the lift assembly of Figures 23 to 25 in a closed and locked position; 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 Figure 27 illustrates a perspective view of a lift assembly according to an example mounted to a boom / dipper arm of a machinery, where the lift assembly is in its closed and locked position around a lift portion formed by a lift portion LP, such as a lift bar, of a logging trailer when the logging trailer is stationary on the ground; Figure 28 illustrates the lift assembly of Figure 27 in its closed and locked position when the logging trailer is lifted; Figure 29A illustrates a side view of a lift 400 according to an example; Figure 29B illustrates a front view of the lift 400 of Figure 29A; Figure 29C and 29D illustrate respective perspective views of the lift 400 of Figure 29A; Figure 30A illustrates a side view of a lift 400 arranged in a position A and a trailer to be lifted arranged in a lifting zone; Figure 30B illustrates a perspective view of the lift arrangement of Figure 30A; Figure 31A illustrates a side view of a lift 400 arranged in a position B and a trailer to be lifted arranged in a lifting zone; Figure 31B illustrates a perspective view of the lift arrangement of Figure 31A; Figure 32A illustrates a side view of a lift 400 arranged in a position C, in which the lift device, in its closed and locked position, is attached to a lift portion LP of the trailer; Figure 32B illustrates a perspective view of the lift arrangement of Figure 32A; Figure 33A illustrates a side view of a lift 400 arranged in a position D, where the trailer is lifter to a first level off ground, with the lift device securely attached to the lift portion of the trailer; Figure 33B illustrates a perspective view of the lift arrangement of Figure 33A; Figure 34A illustrates a side view of a lift 400 arranged in a position E, where the trailer is lifted to a maximum level off ground, with the lift device securely attached to the lift portion of the trailer; Figure 34B illustrates a perspective view of the lift arrangement of Figure 34A; Figure 35A illustrates a side view of a lift 400 arranged in a position F, where the trailer is lifted to a level above the truck bed, with the lift device securely attached to the lift portion of the trailer; Figure 35B illustrates a perspective view of the lift arrangement of Figure 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 Figure 36A illustrates a side view of a lift 400 arranged in a position G, where the trailer is lifted onto the truck bed, with the lift device securely attached to the lift portion of the trailer; Figure 36B illustrates a perspective view of the lift arrangement of Figure 36A; Figure 37 illustrates a top view of a system according to an example, wherein the lift disclosed herein is arranged adjacent a manoeuvring area; Figure 38 illustrates the system of Figure 37 with a trailer lined up in a lifting zone and ready to be lifted by the lift of the lift system; Figure 39 illustrates the system of Figures 37 and 38 wherein both the truck and trailer are lined up in the lifting zone, whereby the trailer can be unloaded from the truck bed or lifted onto the truck bed, depending on the onloading or offloading application; Figure 40 illustrates a lift system according to an example; Figure 41 illustrates a human machine interface according to an example; Figure 42 illustrates a flow chart of a process of lifting a trailer towed by a truck onto a truck bed of the truck according to an example; and Figure 43 illustrates a flow chart of a process of lifting a trailer off a truck bed and connecting the trailer to the truck for towing, according to an example.. DETAILED DESCRIPTION For the purpose of facilitating the discussion of any particular element shown in the accompanying drawings, a single reference numeral may refer to the same, a similar, or an equivalent element in two or more examples. For brevity, the detailed description of that element in relation to one of those examples is intended to apply equally in relation to any other examples comprising that element, except as described or otherwise clearly apparent from the context. Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and claims the words “comprising,” "including" and variants are to be construed in an inclusive sense rather than an exclusive sense. That is, such terms are to be construed in the sense of “including, but not limited to” rather than “consisting solely of.” Various examples disclosed herein relate to a lift device 100 and / or lift assembly 200 and associated system for lifting an object. The object may be any object suitable for lifting. In some examples, the object may be a trailer, such as a log trailer, to be lifted onto or off a truck. Figures 1 to 4 show a front view of a lift device 100 for lifting an object according to an example. The lift device 100 comprises a body 101 having a slot 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 102 for receiving a lift portion LP of the object. The slot 102 may be arranged at a proximal end 1012 of the body 101. The lift device 100 further comprises a clamp mechanism 103 having a first clamp member 1031 and a second clamp member 1032. The first clamp member 1031 and second clamp member 1032 may be pivotably attached to the body 101. The first clamp member 1031 and second clamp member 1032 may be symmetrically arranged in relation to a centreline of the slot 102. The centreline is shown as a dashed line in Figures 1 to 4. The first clamp member 1031 and second clamp member 1032 are configured to pivotably move between an open position, as shown with reference to Figure 1, for receiving the lift portion LP when the lift portion LP is introduced into the slot 102 and a closed position, as shown with reference to Figure 4, for enclosing the lift portion LP. The lift device 100 may further comprise a safety mechanism 104 having a safety bracket 1041. The safety bracket 1041 may be slidably arranged to the body 101. The safety bracket 1041 is arranged to slidably move between an unlocked position and a locked position. The safety bracket 1041 is able to, such as only able to move to the locked position when the first clamp member 1031 and second clamp member 1032 are in the closed position. In the locked position safety bracket 1041 is arranged to prevent the first clamp member 1031 and second clamp member 1032 from moving towards the open position. In an example the centreline of the slot may form a centreline of the lift device. The centreline of the slot 102 may form the intersecting line between the frontal plane and median plane of the lift device 100. The slot 102 may be symmetrically arranged either side a median plane of the lift device. The slot 102 may be formed at the proximal end of the body 101. The slot 102 may extend straight through the proximal end of the body 101 and symmetrically along the centreline to a longitudinal distance C2 (as shown in Figures 5A and 5B) from the proximal end. The slot 102 may extend straight through the proximal end of the body 101, as shown with reference to Figures 1 to 10A, 11A, 12A, 13A, 14, 15, 18 to 21, 23 to 26 showing the frontal plane of the lift device. In some examples, the slot 102 may form a straight through hole in a frontal plane of the lift device. The slot 102 may form open ends either side of the lift device. The slot 102 may extend through the lift device, e.g. along a direction (e.g. depth direction) perpendicular to its centreline and / or to the frontal plane. In some examples, the slot 102 may extend straight through the lift device along an axis normal to the frontal plane and formed in the median plane. 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 Additionally, or alternatively the shape of the slot 102, such as cross- sectional shape of the slot in the frontal plane, may be symmetrical in relation to the centreline. When in the locked position the safety bracket 1041 may be configured to prevent the first clamp member 1031 and second clamp member 1032 to move from the closed position to the open position by laterally blocking the movement path the respective clamp member 1031, 1032. In some examples, e.g. as shown in Figure 4, the safety bracket 1041 in locked position laterally encloses the clamp members. Laterally blocking the clamp members prevents the respective clamp member 1031, 1032 from pivoting outwardly, such as in a direction away from the centreline. As shown with reference to Figures 1 to 4, the first clamp member 1031 may be pivotably attached to the body 101 via a first pivot joint PJ1. The second clamp member 1032 may be pivotably attached to the body 101 via a second pivot joint PJ2. The location of the first pivot joint PJ1 may differ from a location of the second pivot joint PJ2. In an example, the pivot joint forms a pin. The pin may have material characteristics selected to withstand the associated design loads. For heavy lift applications, such as when the object is a log trailer, heavy duty materials are required. In an example, the pin may preferably be made of a Medium-carbon Chromium-Molybdenum (Cr-Mo) alloy steel. More specifically, the Cr-Mo alloy steel may be induction hardened AISI 4140 (EN 42CrMo4 / JIS SCM440) alloy steel. In some examples, the respective first and second pivot joints PJ1, PJ2, are located laterally offset the slot 102, such as located laterally offset the centreline of the slot 102. Alternatively, or additionally, the respective first and second pivot joints PJ1, PJ2 may be arranged longitudinally offset a terminating end 1021 of the slot 102. The example lift device 100 of Figures 1 to 4 have both first and second pivot joints PJ1, PJ2 laterally offset the slot 102 and longitudinally offset the terminating end 1021 of the slot 102. The first clamp member 1031 may comprise a first interior clamp surface 10312. The second clamp member 1032 may comprise a second interior clamp surface 10322. The first interior clamp surface and second interior clamp surface respectively may have a circular or substantially circular cross section. At least part, such as a distalmost end, of the respective first and second interior clamp surface 10312, 10322 is configured to engage the lift portion LP to force the first clamp member 1031 and second clamp member 1032 from the open position to the closed position. 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 In some examples, the respective interior first and second interior clamp surface 10312, 10322 forms an arc with an arc angle of 170 to 180 degrees, such as 175 to 180 degrees, such as 177 degrees to 180 degrees, such as 179 degrees. An arc angle less than 180 degrees may provide an open space between the respective interior clamp surfaces in the closed position. The respective first and second interior clamp surface 10312, 10322 may have a curvature conforming with that of a terminating end 1021 of the slot 102, as perhaps best seen in Figure 4. The clamp mechanism 103 may further comprise a first spring 1033, such as a first extension spring. An extension spring, also referred to as a tension spring, acts to pull components connected to either end of the spring back together to the idle configuration when the spring is extended. The first spring 1033 may have a first end attached to a first spring attachment member 1031S of a first clamp member 1031. A second end of the first spring 1033 opposite the first end may be attached to second spring attachment member 1032S of a second clamp member 1032. The first spring 1033 may be arranged to be under constant tension. The constant tension acts to urge the first spring attachment member 1031S and second spring attachment member 1032S together. The first spring 1033 may have a spring constant large enough to force the respective clamp members towards the open position. In an example, the first spring 1033 acts to urge the first clamp member 1031 and second clamp member 1032 towards the open position. The first spring urging the clamp members towards the open position may be enabled by arranging the first and second spring attachment members 1031S, 1032S at side, such as longitudinal side, of the pivot joints PJ1, PJ2 opposite that of the clamp members 1031, 1032, such as shown with reference to Figures 1 to 4. When provided with a first spring 1033 in this way, the lift device 100 may be referred to as having a self-open configuration. When the pivot joints PJ1, PJ2 are located laterally offset the slot 102, the pivoting movement of the respective clamp member around the associated pivot joint causes a change in a longitudinal position, i.e. in a direction along the centreline of the slot 102, of an interior clamp surface 10312, 10322 of the clamp member 1031, 1032. As shown with reference to Figure 1 and Figures 5A, a distalmost portion of the interior clamp surface 10312, 10322 reaches a longitudinal position closest to a proximal end 1012 of the body 101, in the open position. The longitudinal distance between the proximal end 1012 of the body 101 and the distalmost portion of the interior clamp surface in the open position is denoted C1 in Figure 5A. With reference to Figures 4 and 5B the distalmost portion of the interior 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 clamp surface 10312, 10322 reaches a longitudinal position furthest away from the proximal end 1012 of the body 101, in the closed position. The longitudinal distance between the proximal end 1012 of the body 101 and the distalmost portion of the interior clamp surface in the closed position is denoted C2 in Figure 5B. The distalmost portion of the interior clamp surface thereby undergoes a longitudinal position change DC, equating to C2 minus C1. The longitudinal displacement of the interior surface of the respective clamp member allows the respective clamp member engaging the lift portion LP to move towards the closed position as the relative distance between the lift portion LP and the terminating end 1021 of the slot 102 reduces. Once the lift portion LP engages the terminating end 1021, the respective clamp member has reached its closed position. The terminating end 1021 thus acts to protect the respective clamp members 1031, 1032 from moving beyond the closed position by engaging the lift portion LP and preventing further relative movement of the lift portion LP in relation to the lift device 100. In some examples, a curved portion of the interior clamp surface 10312, 10322 may be aligned with a curved portion of an interior surface of the terminating end 1021 of the slot 102 when the clamp member is in the closed position. Such a configuration is shown with reference to Figure 4. In use, to safely connect the lift portion LP of the object to the lift device 100, the lift device 100 in its open and unlocked position is moved, such as lowered, towards the lift portion LP, so that the lift portion LP can enter the slot 102 at the proximal end 1021 of the body 101. Upon further relative movement, by the lift portion LP moving, such as longitudinally moving, towards the distal end 1013 of the body 101 the lift portion LP engages the distalmost portion of the clamp interior surface 10312, 10322, as shown in Figure 1. Upon further relative movement, by the lift portion LP moving towards the distal end 1013 of the body 101, the respective clamp members are forced towards their closed position, as is shown with reference to Figures 2 to 4. Since the respective clamp member requires a force by the lift portion LP to move towards the closed position, the lift device 100 configuration of Figures 1 to 4 may be referred to as a forced-close configuration. When the clamp members are also connected via a first spring 1033 as described above, the lift device 100 configuration may be referred to as self-open, forced-close configuration. As the lift portion LP relatively moves towards the distal end 1013 of the body 101, i.e. towards the terminating end 1021 of the slot 102, a proximal most end of the interior clamp surfaces 10312, 10322, will follow an arcuate path. The arcuate path is defined by the radial distance from the pivot joint. This results in 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 the interior clamp surface and the proximal most end thereof to close in behind, i.e. at the proximal side of, the lift portion LP. When the lift portion LP comes to a stop at the terminating end 1021 of the slot 102 the interior clamp surfaces fully enclose the lift portion LP in the closed position. Hence, in the closed position the proximal most ends of the respective interior clamp surface are located closest each other. Conversely, in the open position the proximal most ends of the respective interior clamp surface are located further away from each other. In an example, the shortest distance between the proximal most ends of the respective interior clamp surface in the open position is at least equal to the width of the slot 102. The width of the slot 102 may be measured as a minimum interior lateral distance between two points of the body 101 lining the slot 102, transverse the centreline of the slot 102. The relative movement between the lift portion LP terminates when the lift portion LP hits the terminating end 1021 of the slot 102. Due to an alignment between the distalmost interior clamp surface and the terminating end 1021 of the slot 102, the closed position of the respective clamp members 1031, 1032 is attained when the lift portion LP engages the terminating end 1021 of the slot 102. In the open position, when the interior clamp surface 10312, 10322 engages a lift portion LP of the object, entering the slot 102 in the longitudinal direction, the longitudinal position allows the clamp members to self-close. In an example, the safety bracket 1041 comprises a first arm 10411 for engaging the first clamp member 1031. The safety bracket 1041 may further comprise a second arm 10412 for engaging the second clamp member 1032. Further, the safety bracket 1041 may comprise a support member 10413 connecting the first arm 10411 to the second arm 10412. As shown with reference to Figures 1 to 4, the first arm 10411 may be parallel with the second arm 10412. The first clamp member 1031 may comprise a first engagement member 10311. The first engagement member 10311 may extend outwardly from a body 101 of the first clamp member 1031. The first engagement member 10311 may comprise a first engagement surface 10311E for engaging the first arm 10411 of the safety bracket 1041. Similarly, the second clamp member 1032 may comprise a second engagement member 10321. The second engagement member 10321 may outwardly from a body 101 of the second clamp member 1032. The second engagement member 10321 may comprise a second engagement surface 10321E for engaging a second arm 10412 of the safety bracket 1041. 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 In some examples, the first 10311 and second 10312 engagement members may be arranged to move within a respective engagement member cavity 1014 of the body 101. In some examples, the first engagement member 10311 and the second engagement member 10321 may extend from the respective clamp member body in a direction away from the centreline of the slot 102, along an arc defined by the radius from the respective pivot joint PJ1, PJ2. In some examples, the first clamp member 1031 is identical to second clamp member 1302. In some examples, the first clamp member 1031 forms a mirror version of the second clamp member 1302. In an example, each of the first engagement surface 10311E and second engagement surface 10321E has a curved cross section. An end 104111, 104121, such as an outermost end, of a respective arm 10411, 10412 of the safety bracket 1041 may be arranged to slidably engage the curved cross section of the respective engagement surface 10311E, 10321E. Each curved cross section is therefore designed for slidable engagement with one of the ends 104111, 104121 of the safety bracket 1041. A curvature of the curvature of the curved cross section of the first engagement surface 10311E may conforms with a portion of a circular arc having a radius equal to the distance between the first engagement surface 10311E and the first pivot joint PJ1. The end 104111 of the first arm 10411 may be configured to slide along the first engagement surface 10311E when the first clamp member 1031 moves from the open position towards the closed position, in use. A curvature of the curved cross section of the second engagement surface 10321E may conform with a portion of a circular arc having a radius equal to the distance between the second engagement surface 10321E and the second pivot joint PJ2. The end 104121 of the second arm 10411 may be configured to slide along the second engagement surface 10321E when the second clamp member 1032 moves from the open position towards the closed position, in use. The curved cross section of the respective engagement surfaces 10311E, 103121E are shown in Figures 1 to 4, and Figures 14 to 17, show the ends of the respective safety bracket arms 10411, 10412 sliding against the curved cross section of the respective clamp member engagement surface 10311E, 10321E. In an example, as shown in Figure 4, a shortest distance D, such as the shortest distance in a direction transverse the centreline, between the outermost ends of the engagement members 10311, 10321 when the first clamp member 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 1301 and second clamp member 1302 are in the closed position may be equal to or smaller than a closest interior distance between the first arm 10411, and second arm 10412. This allows that the ends 104111, 104121 of the respective arms 10411, 10412 to slide past the engagement members 10311, 10321 to prevent the engagement members 10311, 10321 from moving outwardly and keep the first clamp member 1031 and second clamp member 1032 in the closed position. In some examples, the safety bracket 1041 may be slidably movable between its unlocked position to its locked position in a direction parallel to a centreline of the slot 102. The safety bracket 1041 may be arranged in an open space 1015 within the lift device body 101. The respective arms 10411, 10412 of the safety bracket may be arranged to slidably engage lateral sidewalls of the body 101 lining the open space. In some examples, the sidewalls of the body 101 may slidably engage the respective arm either side of the respective arm. Such a configuration is shown with reference to Figures 1 to 4, and 17 to 17. The open space 1015 may be communication with the respective engagement member cavity 1014. This allows the ends 104111, 104121 of the arms 10411, 10412 of the safety bracket 1041 to move through, such as traverse, the engagement member cavity 1014 when the clamp members are in the closed position. In some examples, the sidewalls of the open space 2015 may be parallel with the centreline of the slot 102. The body 101 may further comprise a recess 1011 for engaging an end 104111, 104121 of a respective arm 10411, 10412 of the safety bracket 1041 in the locked position. The recess 1011 may be in communication with the open space 1015 and the engagement member cavity 1014. The recess 1011 when engaged with the end of the respective arm 10411, 10412 may configured to prevent the respective arm 10411, 10412 to move laterally in the locked position. Respective sidewalls of the body 101 lining the respective recess 1011, and sidewalls lining the open space 1015 may prevent the respective arm from moving laterally when the respective end 104111, 104121 engages the recess 1011. Figures 6A and 6B show the lift devices 100 of Figures 1 and 4 wherein a longitudinal position of the outermost ends of the safety bracket arms are identified for the open position and closed position. In Figure 6A, relating to the open position of the lift device 100, the distance between the end 104111, 104121 of the respective arm 10411, 10412 and the proximal end 1012 of the body 101 is denoted S2. In Figure 6B, relating to the closed and locked position of the lift device 100, the distance between the end 104111, 104121 of the respective arm 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 10411, 10412 and the proximal end 1012 of the body is denoted S1. The ends 104111, 104121 of the respective arm 10411, 10412 thereby undergoes a longitudinal position change DS, equating to S1 minus S2 between the unlocked to locked position of the safety bracket 1041. In an example, the safety mechanism 104 is arranged to be hydraulically operated. As perhaps best shown in Figures 1 to 4, 5A to 7B, and 17 to 17, the safety mechanism 104 may comprise a hydraulic piston 1042. The hydraulic piston 1042 may be rigidly attached to the body 101. The hydraulic piston 1042 may comprise a piston rod 10421. The piston rod 10421 may be attached to the safety bracket 1041. For example, the piston rod 10421 may be attached to the support member 10413 of the safety bracket 104. As shown with reference to Figures 1 to 4, 5A to 7B, and 14 to 17, the piston rod 10421 may be attached to the support member 10413 of the safety bracket 1041 at a location along the centreline of the slot 102. The hydraulic piston 1042 may also be attached to the body 101 at a location along the centre line of the slot 102. In some examples, the piston rod 10421 may be configured to extend when hydraulic pressure is applied to the hydraulic piston 1042, thereby moving the safety bracket 1041 to its unlocked position. Such a configuration is shown in the lift device examples of Figures 1 to 4, 5A to 7B, and 14 to 17. However, in other examples, the hydraulic piston may be arranged so that the piston rod 10421 may be configured to extend when hydraulic pressure is applied to the hydraulic piston, thereby moving the safety bracket 1041 to its locked position. In some examples, increasing the pressure in the hydraulic piston 1042 may extend the piston rod 10421 to move the safety bracket 1041 to the unlocked position, and decreasing the pressure in the hydraulic piston 1042 may retract the piston rod 10421 to move the safety bracket to the locked position. In some examples, increasing the pressure in the hydraulic piston 1042 may extend the piston rod 10421 to move the safety bracket 1041 to the locked position, and decreasing the pressure in the hydraulic piston 1042 may retract the piston rod 10421 to move the safety bracket 1041 to the unlocked position. In an example, with reference to Figure 7A and 7B, the safety mechanism 104 may further comprise at least one second spring 1043, such as a second extension spring 1043. The lift device 100 example of Figure 7A and 7B comprises two second springs 1043. The at least one second spring 1043 may have a first end attached to the safety bracket 1041, such as at the support member 10413. The at least one second spring 1043 may have a second end, opposite the first 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 end, attached to the body 101. The at least one second spring 1043 may be arranged to be under constant tension. The constant tension acts to urge the safety bracket 1041 towards its locked position. The second spring(s) 1043 may have a spring constant large enough to force the safety bracket towards the locked position. The end 104111 of the first arm 10411 may be forced into constant engagement with the first engagement surface 10311E by the second spring(s) 1043 when the first clamp member 1031 is in open position and any position intermediate the open position and the closed position. The end 104121 of the second arm 10412 may be forced into constant engagement with the second engagement surface 10321E by the second spring(s) 1043 when the second clamp member 1032 is in open position and any position intermediate the open position and the closed position. The respective first engagement surface 10311E and the second engagement surface 10321E may form the distalmost surface of the respective engagement members 10311, 10321. In an example, an outermost end of the first fist engagement surface 10311E and the second engagement surface 10321E may be bevelled or curved. Such a configuration is shown with reference to Figures 1 to 7B. The bevelled or curved outermost end allows the ends 104111,104121 of the first 10411 and second 10412 arms to slide past the outermost end of the respective engagement member 10311, 10321. As the respective ends 104111,104121 of the first 10411 and second 10412 arms engage the bevelled or curved outermost end, the first and second arms will act to force the engagement members inwardly, thereby forcing the respective clamp members to the closed position. In the example shown in Figures 7A to 7B, once the hydraulic pressure is released, such as by opening a valve in the hydraulic pressure line (not shown), or no longer applied to the hydraulic piston 1042, the second spring(s) act to reduce the hydraulic pressure in the hydraulic piston 1042, thereby pulling the safety bracket 1041 towards the closed position. This configuration may be referred to as self-locking and adds to the safety of the lift device 100. To unlock the safety bracket 1041, a deliberate act of applying hydraulic pressure to the hydraulic piston 1042 is required. The risk of accidental or undesired unlocking of the lift device 100 resulting in the clamp members 1031, 1032 opening during a lift is therefore minimised. In some examples, the hydraulic piston 1042 is operated only to move the safety bracket 1041 towards the unlocked position. Hydraulic pressure may be 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 provided to the hydraulic piston 1042 by conventional hydraulic pressure line (not shown). In some examples, the hydraulic piston 1042 is operated to move the safety bracket 1041 between the locked position and unlocked position, and between the unlocked position and the locked position, optionally supplemented by at least one second spring 1043 assisting moving the safety bracket 1041 towards the locked position. Depending on the specific configuration in some examples applying hydraulic pressure may act to move the safety bracket 1041 from the locked to the unlocked position, and in other examples applying hydraulic pressure may act to move the safety bracket 1041 from the unlocked position to the locked position. Figure 8 shows a perspective view of a lift device 100 of Figures 1 to 4. Figure 9 shows a front view of the lift device 100 of Figure 8. Here, the body 101 is provided with front cover 1016. The front cover 1016 acts to protect the components of the lift device 100 hereinbefore described. In an example, the first clamp member 1031 and the second clamp member 1032 may join or be spaced apart (in the closed position) along a plane offset from a median plane of the lift device. The median plane of the lift device may be orthogonal to a frontal plane of the lift device. The frontal plane may be parallel to the front cover 1016 of the lift device. The respective clamp members may comprise respective end faces 1032E1, 1032E2, 1031E1, 1032E2, terminating along the offset plane. The respective interior surface clamp surface 10322, 10321 may extend between the respective end faces 1032E1, 1032E2, 1031E1, 1031E2. Figure 16A shows an example of a second clamp member 1032 having a first end face 1032E1 and second end face 1032E2 between which the interior clamp surface 10322 extends. The first and second end faces 1032E1, 1032E2 are shown being offset by an angle ^^ from the median plane. Here the angle ^ is shown with reference to axes A1 and A2, both of which are in the median plane. Although not shown in Figure 16A to 16C, the first clamp member, in the closed position, may have corresponding end faces 1321E1, 1321E2, parallel with the end faces 1032E1, 1032E2 of the second clamp member 1032. In some examples, a longitudinal axis of the lift portion LP is arranged to form part of the median plane when the lift device is in its closed position. By arranging the end faces offset to the median plane, there is less risk of the lift portion LP to act to force the clamp members apart during lifting. During lifting, the mass of the trailer will be distributed by gravity along the longitudinal axis of the lift portion LP. When the clamp members are in the closed position the longitudinal axis of the lift portion LP 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 is formed in the median plane of the lift device. So, end faces being offset to the median plane of the lift device, are also offset to the longitudinal axis of the lift portion LP when the clamp members are in their closed position and enclosing the lift portion LP. Since the joint between the end faces of the first and second clamp members are offset the longitudinal axis of the lift portion through which the load of the trailer is distributed, there is less force acting on said joint, thereby minimising risk of unwanted movement towards open position. Further the offset end faces minimise risk of the clamp members getting struck to the lift portion LP in use. Figure 16B show a front view of the second clamp member 1032 of Figure 16A. Figure 16C shows a side view of the second clamp member 1032 of Figures 16A and 16B. Figure 17 shows the safety bracket 1041 of the lift device 100 according to an example. Now turning to Figures 18 to 21 a cross-sectional front view of a lift assembly 200 according to an example is shown. Each of Figures 18 to 21 show the lift assembly 200 in the closed and locked position. Figure 18 illustrates a perspective view of the lift assembly 200. Figure 19 illustrates a front view of the lift assembly 200. Figure 20 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the lift assembly 200. Figure 21 illustrates a side view of the lift assembly 200. The lift assembly 200 may be referred to as a dual lift device assembly, given it comprises two lift devices 100, such as those previously described herein. The lift assembly 200 comprises a spacer element 201. The lift assembly 200 further comprise first lift device 100 attached at a first end 2011 of the spacer element 201. The lift assembly 200 further comprises a second lift device 100 attached to a second end 2012 of the spacer element 201. The first lift device 100 and second lift device 100 may be symmetrically arranged with respect to the spacer element 201. The first lift device and second lift device may be aligned with each other symmetrically either side of the spacer element 201. The first and second lift device may be symmetrically arranged in relation to a mid-plane of the spacer element 201. The mid plane of the space element may be parallel to a front face, such as the face of the front cover 1016, of the first lift device or second lift device. The spacer element 201 acts to space the two lift devices apart, thereby allowing the lift device(s) 100 to lift the lift portion LP at two spaced apart positions. A dual lift device lift assembly 200 may thus increase the stability, and minimising any undesired pivoting, of the object when the object is lifted, in use. The lift portion LP, attached to the respective clamp members in the closed and locked position, is shown in Figures 18 to 21. In some examples, the lift device 100 or lift assembly 200 further comprises a pair of stabilising arms 301. 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 The stabilising arms 301 may be spring loaded to the body 101 or spacer element 201 (not shown). For example, for a single lift device 100 configuration such as that shown in Figures 1 to 9 the stabilising arms may be attached to the body 101. In a dual lift device lift assembly 200 configuration, such as that shown with reference to Figures 18 to 21, and 27 to 28 the stabilising arms 301 may be attached to the spacer element 201, or the body 101, or both. A lift assembly 300 according to another example is shown with reference to Figures 23 to 26. Figure 23 illustrates a cross-sectional front view of a lift assembly 300 in an open and unlocked position. Figure 24 illustrates a cross- sectional front view of the lift assembly 300 in a first intermediate and unlocked position. Figure 25 illustrates a cross-sectional front view of the lift assembly 300 in a second intermediate and unlocked position. Figure 26 illustrates a cross- sectional front view of the lift assembly 300 in a closed and locked position. The lift assembly 300 may share each of the components disclosed with reference to Figures 1 to 21. The lift assembly 300 further comprise a pair of stabilising arms 301. The stabilising arms 301 may be attached to the body 101 or a spacer element 201. The spring-loaded stabilising arms 301 may act to cushion or damping the relative movement, such as longitudinal relative movement, between the lift device / assembly 100, 200 and object when the lift device / assembly 100, 200 is moved to engage the lift portion LP. The spring-loaded stabilising arms 301 further minimise any undesired pivoting of the object during lifting. The stabilising arms 301 are arranged to rest on a flat surface of the object to be lifted in use. The respective stabilising arm 301 may extend at least partly in a direction orthogonal to the centreline of the lift device 100 and an axis perpendicular to the centreline in the cross-sectional front view of the lift device 100. For example, Figures 27 and 28 show a dual lift device lift assembly 200 provided with a pair of stabilising arms 301 resting on the longitudinal beams of the logging trailer to be lifted. The lift assembly 200 of Figures 27 and 28 is attached to a lift 400, such as a hydraulic lift 400. Figure 27 shows the stabilising arm 301 provided lift assembly 200 in the closed and locked position when the lift assembly is attached to the lift portion LP, formed by a lift bar, arranged between the longitudinal beams of the logging trailer. Figure 28 shows the hydraulic lift 400 lifting the logging trailer using the lift assembly 200. The lift assembly 200 of Figures 28 and 29 are sized to slidably fit between the two longitudinal beams. The respective front covers 1016 may engage the sides of the longitudinal beams in use further stabilising the object during the lifting procedure, such as when loading and unloading the logging trailer onto / from a logging truck bed. 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 In some examples, the slot 102 may have a width gradually decreasing from the proximal end towards its terminating end 1021. The proximal end of the slot 102 may be bevelled, chamfered, or curved at the proximal end 1012. The slot 102 may have a width gradually decreasing from the proximal end towards its terminating end 1021. In some examples, the slot 102 reaches its smallest width proximal the proximal most end of the respective clamp member 1031, 1032. In some examples the object refers to a heavy object, such as a heavy load. The object may for example relate to a logging trailer. However, the disclosure herein is not limited to a particular type of object. Any object having provisions to be lifted by means of the disclosed clamp mechanism should be considered falling within the present disclosure. Further, in some examples a lift portion LP adapted for the lift device may be attached to the object thereby making it suitable to be lifted by the lift device / assembly disclosed herein. In some examples, the lift portion could be attached by fasteners to the object or be welded to the object. For example, when the object is a logging trailer, a lift portion such as a lift bar could be welded to the logging trailer to allow for lifting the logging trailer using the lift device / assembly disclosed herein. In some examples, the lift portion LP is a lift bar. The lift portion LP may alternatively be any elongated structure, with lateral dimensions fitting inside the clamp members when in the closed position. The lift device, and its components may be manufactured to a size tailored for a particular lift portion LP. Accordingly, the size of the body 101, the slot 102, the clamp members 1031, 1032, including their curved interior clamp surfaces 103111, 103121, the safety bracket 1041, etc. may all be manufactured to fit the intended lift portion LP and associated objects. In an example the lift portion LP is loop shaped. The clamp members may be configured to enclose a section of the loop shaped lift portion LP in the closed position, such that that in the closed position the proximal most end of the interior clamp surfaces extend into the central portion of the loop preventing the loop from escaping longitudinally towards the proximal end 1012. The lift device 100, including the body 101, clamp members 1031, 1032, and safety bracket 1041, and / or the lift portion LP may be made of materials common for heavy lifting. For example, any of the components of the lift device 100 may be made of steel, such as stainless steel or any other suitable metal or material. In an example, the components of the lift device / lift assembly and lift have material characteristics selected to withstand the associated design loads. For heavy lift applications, such as when the object is a log trailer, heavy duty materials are required. 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 In an example, one or more components of the lift device 100 / lift assembly 200, including the body 101, clamp members 1031, 1032, and safety bracket 1041 may preferably be made of AS / NZS 3678 Grade 350 structural steel plate for heavy lift applications. For non-heavy lift applications, such as light-duty or medium-duty applications, one or more components of the lift device 100 / lift assembly 200, including the body 101, clamp members 1031, 1032 and safety bracket 1041, the lift portion LP, or pivot joint (pin), may be made of plastic materials, including hard plastic materials, such as polycarbonate (PC), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), polypropylene (PP), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). In some examples, the plastic components of the lift device 100 / lift assembly 200 may not be limited to those listed above. In fact, they may come from any selection of plastics with material characteristics that are one or more of impact resistant, wear resistant, tough, and suitable for the chosen application. In some examples, an attachment member 2013 is attached to the body 101 or spacer element 201. The attachment member 2013 is arranged to attach the lift device or lift assembly to the external lift or hoist system. In some examples, the lift device 100 according to any of the examples disclosed herein may be attached, via the attachment member 2013, to a lift or hoist system comprising a conventional chain or rope for managing such as loading unloading heavy loads. For example, Figure 18 shows an attachment member 2013 comprising holes designed to receive a chain or rope. The lift device 100 may in some examples be attached, via the attachment member 2013, to an excavator, crane, lift, hook or skip loader type equipment. For example, Figure 23 shows a lift assembly 300 with an attachment member 2013 suitable for attachment to an excavator gripper arm or similar. Figures 27 and 28 shows a lift assembly 200 provided with an attachment member 2013 connected to the gripper arm of a hydraulic lift 400. In some examples, the lift device 100 and / or lift assembly 200 is attached to a truck mounted lift 400 for loading or unloading heavy objects, such as a logging trailer, to or from the truck bed. In some examples, the spacer element 201 with a first type of attachment member 2013 of a lift assembly may be replaced with a spacer element 201 having a second type of attachment member 2013, thereby modifying the lift assembly to suit the application without replacing the lift devices. This adds to the versatility of the lift assemblies disclosed herein. In some examples, with reference to Figures 29A to 36B, the hydraulic lift 400 comprises the lift device 100 and / or lift assembly 200. The hydraulic lift 400 may comprise a lift body 401. The lift body 401 may be attached, such as rigidly or swivelably attached, to a support structure. The support structure may refer to the 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 ground / foundation. Alternatively, when the lift 400 is installed on a truck, the support structure may form part of the truck. The lift 400 may comprise a lift boom 402. The lift boom 402 may be pivotably attached to the lift body 401. The lift 400 may further comprise lift arm 403. The lift arm 403 may be pivotably attached to the lift boom 402. The lift 400 may comprise one of more hydraulic cylinders 404a-c, for controlling relative movement between the lift boom 402 and lift arm 403 and the lift body 401. For example, a first hydraulic cylinder 404a, or pair of hydraulic cylinders arranged either side the lift boom, may be attached at one end to the lift body 401 and at the other end to an end, such as at a pivot joint, of the lift boom 402. Operation of the first hydraulic cylinder 404a or first pair of hydraulic cylinders 404a enable the lift boom 402 to pivot in relation to the lift body 401. A second hydraulic cylinder 404b, or pair of hydraulic cylinders arranged either side the lift arm, may be attached at one end to the lift boom 402 and at the other end to an end to the lift arm 403. Operation of the second hydraulic cylinder 404b or pair of second hydraulic cylinders enable the lift arm 403 to pivot in relation to the lift boom 402. The lift arm 403 may be arranged to be attached, such as detachably attached, pivotably attached, or detachably pivotably attached to the lift device 100 and / or lift assembly 200. In some examples, the lift arm 403 is attached to the spacer element 201 of the lift assembly 200. A third hydraulic cylinder 404c, or pair of hydraulic cylinders, may be attached at one end to the lift arm 403 and at the other end to the lift device 100 and / or lift assembly 200, such as offset to a location at which the lift arm is attached to the lift device 100 and / or or lift assembly 200. Operation of the third hydraulic cylinder 404c or pair of second hydraulic cylinders 404c enable the lift device 100 and / or lift assembly 200 to pivot in relation to the lift arm 403. One or more hydraulic pumps 405 may be provided to supply hydraulic oil at various pressures to the one or more hydraulic cylinders 404a-404c. Typically, an increase in hydraulic pressure will result in an extension of the associated hydraulic cylinder, and vice versa. The hydraulic pump(s) 405 may comprise a hydraulic power unit (HPU) controllable by a controller. In an example, the HPU may be a 15 kW, 3-phase electric motor driving a variable displacement piston pump with pressure-on-demand control. In an example, one or more components of the lift 400, including the lift body 401, boom 402, and lift arm 403 may preferably be made of high strength quenched and tempered structural steel plate. Acceptable Grades may include: JFE HITEN 780LE (Japan, JFE Steel), Bisalloy BIS 80 (Australia, AS 3597) or equivalents thereof. 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 In an example, a controller 500, such as a programmable logic controller (PLC) is provided to control and / or monitor the operation of the lift device and / or lift assembly. An exemplary controller 500 is shown in the system 100 diagram of Figure 40. A PLC is an industrial digital computer that is configured to monitor input signals, process data using programmed logic, and / or control output devices. PLCs provide reliable, automated operation of machinery and processes, supporting flexible programming, communication with other systems, and integration with various input and output devices in industrial environments. The controller 500, such as PLC, may include a processor, such as a microprocessor and memory. The microprocessor may execute instructions stored in the memory. The controller 500 may be configured to receive sensor input from one or more sensors of the lift device 100 and / or the lift assembly 200. Additionally, or alternatively the controller 500 may be configured to control the operation of the lift device and / or the lift assembly, as will be explained further below. In some examples the lift assembly 200 comprises the controller 500. The controller 500 may further be operatively coupled to a Human Machine Interface (HMI) 650. The HMI 550 may comprise one or more displays 651a, 651b, for displaying information to a user. The display 651a, 651b, may for example be any one or more of a liquid crystal display (LCD), light-emitting diode (LED) type display, touchscreen, or any other suitable visual output device capable of displaying graphical, textual, and / or symbolic information to the user. Alternatively, or additionally the HMI 650 may be operatively connected to or comprise one or more traffic light units 652. The traffic light unit 652 may provide a light sequence, such as a red, yellow, or green, to guide the operator during various stages of the object lifting sequence. In some examples, controller 500 is configured to control the operation of a display 651a, 651b, to present written, textual, and / or graphical information associated with the lifting sequence. Additionally, or alternatively, the HMI 600 may further comprise one or more input device(s) 653 for inputting information into the interface. The input device 653 may include, for example, a keyboard, mouse, touchscreen, buttons, switches, trackpad, stylus, voice recognition hardware, and / or any combination thereof. The input device(s) 653 may be operatively connected to the interface so that user actions are detected and transmitted to the controller 500 for processing. 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 Figure 41 shows a schematic representation of an exemplary HMI 650, comprising at least one off-screen control button. The off-screen control button(s) may be associated with any one or more of: Next position, Up, Down, Clamp engage / disengage. The HMI 650 may further comprise at least one on- screen button. The on-screen button(s) may be associated with any one or more of: maintenance mode, system status, faults, reset function. The HMI 650 may further comprise an emergency stop button, which may connect to a hardwired safety circuit. The controller may be configured to receive a stop signal subject to the emergency stop button being pressed. Upon receiving said stop signal the controller 500 may be configured to immediately stop any further movement of the lift 400. For example, controller may be configured to send a control signal to one or more hydraulic pumps 405 to stop supply of hydraulic fluid, upon receiving the stop signal. In some examples, the controller may be configured to close one of more shut off valves arranged along hydraulic pressure lines feeding the hydraulic cylinder(s) of the lift. The shut off valves may form part of an emergency stop circuit. Activating the maintenance mode button may trigger the controller 500 to operate in a maintenance mode. The maintenance mode may enable unrestricted movement of lift assembly or lift device. During standard operation (i.e. non- maintenance mode) the lift may be configured to operate within preset safety limits only. The safety limits prevents the lift from unsafe operation, in use. In the maintenance mode the preset safety limits may be disabled, allowing the lift to operate within its full range for servicing and / or fault finding. The maintenance mode may enable an operator to access information on current faults, alarms / alerts, settings, and / or maintenance records for troubleshooting and / or updating. The HMI 600 may comprise one or more alarm units 654a, 654b, for alerting the operator to various alarm events. The alarm unit(s) 654a, 654b may comprise a speaker for providing an audible alarm signal. The controller 500 may control the alarm unit(s) 654a, 654b to provide an audible alarm signal based on detecting an alarm event. Additionally, or alternatively, the controller 500 may be configured to control the display 651a, 651b to present information about the associated detected alarm event. Examples of alarm events may be associated with oil overpressure in the hydraulic system (for example sensed by a pressure sensor), low oil level (for example sensed by oil level sensor), high oil temperature (for example sensed by a temperature sensor, sensor failure (no response after set time or out of range), or no movement detected (hydraulic cylinder not moving despite command) by a 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 sensor, such as an inclination sensor. Each of the associated sensors, such as pressure sensor, oil level sensor, temperature sensor may be operatively couple to the controller 500 enabling the controller 500 to alert the operator, e.g. via the alarm unit(s) 654a, 654b, and / or display 651a, 651b. The controller 500 may be configured to stop the lifting sequence based on detecting critical alarm events, such as oil overpressure or sensor failure(s). Following detection of a critical event the controller 500 may be configured to control the display 651a, 651b to present information associated with error and prompting the operator the manual intervention required to resume system operation. The controller 500 may be configured to store an alarm log of each alarm event with associated time stamp, and optionally time stamp upon clearance of the alarm event. In some examples, the controller 500 is configured to allow continued system operation upon detection of non-critical alarms, such as low oil level, high oil temperature. In some examples, the controller 500 is configured to control lifting operation of the lift device 100. For example, the controller 500 may be arranged to control the operation of the respective hydraulic piston 1042 of the lift device(s) 100 to supply hydraulic pressure to the hydraulic piston. This may be enabled by the controller 500 being configured to control the operation of a hydraulic pump, such as the hydraulic pump 405, coupled to the hydraulic piston 1042. In an example, with reference to Figures 10A, 11A, 12A, and 13A the lift device 100 further comprises at least one proximity sensor 105. The proximity sensor 105 may be attached to body 101. The proximity sensor 105 is configured to detect proximity to the safety bracket 1041. The proximity sensor 105 may be arranged to detect proximity to the safety bracket 1041 when then safety bracket 1041 has reached its locked position. Figures 10A, 11A, and 12A shows a lift device of Figure 1 wherein a proximity sensor 105 is arranged to the body 101. Here, the safety bracket 1041 is in its unlocked position. In the unlocked position the proximity sensor 105 is located at a first distance from the safety bracket 1041. Figure 13A shows the lift device of Figures 10A to 12C when the safety bracket 1041 is in its locked position. In the locked position the proximity sensor 105 is located at a second distance from the safety bracket 1041. The second distance is smaller than the first distance. 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 The proximity sensor 105 may be located on the body to trigger a signal when the distance between the proximity sensor 105 and the safety bracket 1041 meets a threshold, such as when the distance between the proximity sensor 105 and the safety bracket 1041 is below a set threshold distance. In some examples, the threshold distance may be set to be the second distance. Alternatively, the threshold distance may be is set to be a distance between the first distance and second distance, such as a distance closer to the second distance than the first distance. In some examples, the proximity sensor 105 is configured to trigger a proximity signal upon contacting the safety bracket 1041. In this example, the proximity sensor 105 may be arranged on the body so that it contacts the safety bracket 1041 when the safety bracket 1041 is in its locked position. In an example, the lift device may comprise one or more second proximity sensor(s) to detect when the clamp members are in their closed / engaged position. The second proximity sensor may be located on the first clamp member 1031 and / or second clamp member 1032 to engage with a structure of the lift device when the respective clamp member has reached its closed position. In some examples, the structure may refer to a body of the lift device, and / or a clamp member of the lifting device. The one or more second proximity sensor(s) may be operatively coupled to the controller 500. Positive engagement signals from the one or more second proximity sensor(s) may be used by the controller 500 to produce allow lifting operation. No positive engagement signal from the one or more second proximity sensor(s) may be used by the controller 500 to trigger an alarm signal and / or prevent lifting operation. The lift system 400 may comprise one or more sensors, transducers, and / or valves. In an example one or more load sensor(s) are provided. The load sensor is configured to detect the load held by the lift device 100 / lift assembly 200. The load sensor may for example be arranged on the lift 400, such as on one or more of the associated hydraulic cylinders, to detect the forces acting on the lift device 100 / lift assembly 200. The load sensor may e.g. be used during trailer unloading, i.e. when the trailer is lowered onto the truck bed, to sense pressure changes when truck takes the load of the trailer. In an example, the load sensor may be a pressure sensor arranged at the HPU. Additionally, or alternatively, the load sensor may comprise a load pin arranged between the lift arm 403 and a portion of the lift device and / or lift assembly, such as the spacer element(s) 201 thereof. In an example, one or more high pressure sensor(s) are provided. High pressure sensors may be used to detect system overload (e.g. overweight trailer) 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 and / or confirm trailer weight is taken by the truck before the safety bracket 1041 is moved from its locked to unlocked position to allow clamp members to release the lift portion LP. In an example, one or more inclination sensor(s) are provided. The inclination sensor(s) may be located at an end of the lift boom 402. The inclination sensor(s) may be arranged to determine a relative angle between the lift boom and the lift device and / or lift assembly. The controller may be configured to control operation of the hydraulic cylinder(s) of the lift based on the inclination sensor output to keep the lift device and / or lift assembly level, such as horizontally aligned. The lift device and / or lift assembly may be said to be level when the slot centreline is parallel to or forms part of a vertical axis. The vertical axis may refer to the vertical extending to / from Earth’s centre of gravity. A level configuration of the lift device and / or lift assembly is shown with reference to Figures 29A, 29C, 31A to 36B where the underlying foundation of the manoeuvring area is arranged orthogonal to the vertical line. The inclination sensor may be configured to determine the position / orientation of the hydraulic cylinders 404a-c of the lift 400 and / or lift device cylinder positions. Alternatively, or additionally, a cylinder transducer may be provided. The cylinder transducer may be configured to measure lift cylinder extension to track the lift arm's position during operation. A cylinder transducer may be arranged on one or more hydraulic cylinders 404a-c of the lift 400. In an example, a low oil level sensor is provided. The low oil level sensor is configured to detect hydraulic oil level in the lift system. The low oil level sensor may be configured to trigger a signal if oil level is below a set threshold. In an example, one or more load holding valves (such as counterbalancing valves) may be provided. The load holding valves may be mounted directly on the lift boom cylinders 404a, and / or lift arm cylinders 404b to prevent unintended lowering in case of hydraulic to hose failure or valve malfunction. The load holding valves may also be used to synchronize and balance pressure between pairs of cylinders 404a, 404b. The controller 500 may be configured to calculate the position of the lift device 100 and / or lift assembly 200 based on information from the inclination sensor(s) and / or cylinder transducer(s) and known design parameters of the lift configuration. Design parameters of the lift configuration may include any one or more of the following: known dimensions of the lift body 401, lift boom 402, lift arm 403, lift device 100, lift assembly 200, hydraulic cylinders 404a-c, and locations on pivot joints of the lift, and locations where hydraulic cylinder(s) 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 attach to the lift body 401, lift boom 402, lift arm 403, and / or lift device 110 / lift assembly 200. The hydraulic position or position of the lift device 100 and / or lift assembly 200 may e.g. be referenced to a 2D plane, based on angular position relative to reference direction. The reference direction may be a vertical axis, such as the Earth’s vertical line, or a horizontal axis perpendicular to the vertical line. In some examples, the reference direction may refer to a geographical direction, such as North, South, East, or West. In an example, the lift 400 comprises one or more lift position and / or orientation sensors. The lift position and / or orientation sensors may be arranged on the lift boom 402, lift arm 403, and / or lift device 100 / lift assembly 200. The lift position and / or orientation sensors may comprise be inertial reference unit (IRU) sensors. However, any suitable position and / or orientation sensor(s) may be used. IRU sensors uses gyroscopes and accelerometers to determine an object’s attitude, position, and velocity without having to rely on external references. The one or more lift position and / or orientation sensors may be operatively coupled to the controller 500. Signals from the one or more lift position and / or orientation sensors may be used by the controller 500 to calculate and confirm the current position and / or orientation of the lift 400, improving the safety of operation. In some examples, the position and / or orientation sensors may replace the inclination sensors and or cylinder transducer sensors. In an example, the lift assembly 200 comprises an object detection unit 410. The object detection unit 410 may be configured to operate in an object detection mode for detecting an object, such as the object to be lifted, present in an operating area of the object detection unit 410. In the object detection mode, the object detection unit 410 may further be configured to detect a position of the object, or alignment of the object, within the operating area of the object detection unit 410. In some examples, the object detection unit 410 may be configured to detect whether an object is located at a position within a set area, such as an area of the manoeuvring area. In some examples, the object detection unit 410 may be configured to detect a size and / or shape of an object. In some examples, the object detection unit 410 may be configured to detect whether an object having a set size and / or shape is located within a set area, such as an area of the manoeuvring area. 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 In some examples, the position of the object may be referenced to a reference location within a coordinate system of the object detection unit 410. In some examples, the alignment of the object may correspond to a reference alignment direction within the coordinate system of the object detection unit 410. In some examples the object detection unit 410 forms or comprises a Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) sensor. An example of a suitable LIDAR sensor is picoScan made by Sick. The object detection unit 410 may be operatively coupled to the controller 500. In an example, the controller 500 is configured to access signals from the object detection unit 410. The controller 500 may be configured to process the accessed signals. The controller 500 may be further configured to present the accessed or processed information on a display unit, such as a screen. In some examples, the object detection unit 410 is further configured to operate in a reflector detection mode. In the reflector detection mode, the object detection unit 410 is configured detect reflections of reflective objects in the object detection operating area. In some examples, the object may be provided with a reflector, facilitating, and / or improving object reflection detection. The object detection unit 410 may be arranged to detect object reflections using any one of more of the following detection parameters: Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI), signal characteristics, signal delays, distances. RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) is a metric indicating the strength of the signal received by the object detection unit 410. In some situations, relying on RSSI alone may make it difficult to distinguishing between a reflector and bright targets. In these situations, combining RSSI with other detection parameters, such as expected distance to reflector, reduces the risk of the object detection unit 410 to provide false positive reflector detection. In some examples, the object detection unit 410 utilizes a number of the different detection parameters to enable object detection, location, and / or alignment. For the trailer lift application, a first reflector may be attached to the towing vehicle at a first location of the vehicle. The first reflector is arranged to face the object detection unit 410, in use. The first location is determined such that the trailer may be able to be lowered into position onto the vehicle bed when the first reflector is aligned with the projected travel direction. A second reflector may be attached to a second location of the object. The second reflector is arranged to face the object detection unit 410, in use. In the trailer lift application, the object is a trailer. The second location may be arranged along an extension of the lift portion LP, such as lift bar, arranged on the 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 trailer. In this way the second reflector when aligned with the projected travel direction enables the lift device to be lowered towards the lift bar and engage with the lift bar in appropriate alignment. Alternatively, or additionally, the second location may be arranged such that the lift device is able to lift the object when the second reflector is aligned with the projected travel direction. The controller 500 may be configured to operate the object detection unit 410 in the reflector detection mode and output a signal when the object reflector and / or truck reflector is aligned with the projected travel direction of the lifting assembly. In an example, the object detection unit 410 is stationary arranged adjacent a manoeuvring area 600. The manoeuvring area 600 may refer to a geometrical area in which the object to be lifted may be manoeuvred into position for lifting. For example, when the object is a trailer, a vehicle configured to tow the trailer may be operated within the manoeuvring area 600 to manoeuvre the trailer into the appropriate lifting position. The manoeuvring area 600 may be provided with booms at either end for controlling traffic into and from the manoeuvring area 600, for safety reasons and / or preventing unauthorised access. Further, the sides of the manoeuvring area 600 may be fenced off for safety reasons, and / or for prevent unauthorised access. The object detection unit 410 may be attached to a stationary body, such as a body 401 of the lift assembly 400. Such a configuration is shown with reference to Figures 29A to 29D. The manoeuvring area 600 may comprise a first zone 601, also referred to as a warning zone 601. The warning zone 601 may form or comprise an area of the manoeuvring area 600. The manoeuvring area 600 may further comprise a second zone 602, also referred to as an alignment zone 602. The second zone 602 may be formed within the first zone 601. The alignment zone 602 may form or comprise an area of the warning zone 601. The manoeuvring area 600 may further comprise a third zone 603, also referred to as a lifting zone 603. The third zone 603 may be formed within the second zone 602. The lifting zone 603 may form or comprise an area of the alignment zone 602. The manoeuvring area 600 may further comprise a fourth zone 604, also referred to as a truck zone 604. The fourth zone 604 may be separate from any one of the first zone, second zone 602 and third zone. The truck zone refers to a 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 zone in which the truck towing the trailer needs to be positioned before the trailer can be disconnected and subsequently lifted. The manoeuvring area 600 may further comprise a fifth zone 605, also referred to as a trailer zone 605. The fifth zone 605 separate may be separate from the fourth zone 604. Alternatively, or additionally the fifth zone 605 may comprise one or more of the first 601, second 602, and third 603 zones. The trailer zone refers to a zone in which the trailer need be positioned to enable the lift 400 to lift or lowering the trailer, in use. In some examples, the object detection unit is configured to trigger a signal when the object (such as trailer) and / or truck is located in at least one of the first zone 601, second zone 602, third zone 603, fourth zone 604, fifth zone 605. The controller 500 may be configured to access the respective signal and control the operation of the lift, HMI, traffic light, entry system and / or exit system accordingly. Figures 37 to 39 illustrate a top view of the manoeuvring area 600 according to an example. An entry system 700A, such as a gate system, is provided at the entry of the manoeuvring area 600 (at the bottom of Figures 37 to 39). An exit system 700B, such as a gate system, is provided at the exit of the manoeuvring area 600 (at the top of Figures 37 to 39). The first zone 601, second zone 602, and third zone 604 are identified symmetrically either side of the lift 400 provided adjacent the manoeuvring area 600. The fourth zone 605, i.e. the truck zone, is identified between the exit system 700B and the first zone 601. In some examples, the object detection unit 410 is configured to detect the presence and / or position and / or alignment of an object or part of said object in each of the zones of the manoeuvring area 600, such as the first zone 601, the second zone 602, and / or third zone 603. In some examples, the manoeuvring area 600 spans a longitudinal distance (length) and lateral distance (width), as shown with reference to Figures 37 to 39. For a truck trailer lift application, the length of the manoeuvring area 600 may for example range between 20 and 40 meters, such as 25 to 30m. As an example, the width of the manoeuvring area 600 may be ranging between 4 and 7 meters. A lateral distance, such as width, of the respective warning zone 601, alignment zone 602, and / or lifting zone 603, may be determined by the reach of the lifting assembly. In an example, each of the zones may be said to be formed in a reference plane. 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 The warning zone 601, alignment zone 602, and / or lifting zone 603, may be aligned with a projection of the travel direction of a boom and / or arm of the lifting assembly onto the reference plane of the associated zone. The projection of the travel direction or longitudinal travel direction of the boom and / or arm of the lifting assembly onto the respective zone plane may be hereinafter referred to as the projected travel direction. For example, the width of the respective zone may extend parallel with the projected travel direction. In some examples, the warning zone 601, and alignment zone 602 may have respective lengths extending perpendicular to the projected travel direction. In some examples, the respective zone is symmetrically arranged about the projected travel direction. As an example, for a trailer lift application, the warning zone 601 may extend about ±2m either side of projected travel direction of lifting assembly. The alignment zone 602 may extend ±5cm either side of projected travel direction of lifting assembly. The lifting zone 603 may extend ±1cm either side of projected travel direction of lifting assembly. Figure 38 shows a top view of a truck and trailer in a manoeuvring area 600, wherein the trailer is positioned in the lifting zone 603 along the projected travel direction of the lift assembly. Figures 39 shows a top view of a truck and trailer in a manoeuvring area 600, wherein the trailer and truck reflector are both positioned in the lifting zone 603 along the projected travel direction of the lift assembly 200. The configuration may conform with the process 800 steps 809 to 810 of Figure 42, or process 900 steps 902 to 904 of Figure 43, detailed below. In an example, the lift 400 comprises a clearance sensor for detecting that the clearance between the bottom of the trailer and the truck bed meets a threshold. The clearance sensor may be operatively connected to the controller 500. The controller may control the HMI, such as alarm units, and / or traffic light units 652 based on the clearance threshold being met or not. In an example, the lift comprises a distance sensor to detect a distance between the truck headboard and trailer front, providing a live readout to the driver. The distance sensor may be operatively connected to the controller 500. The controller 500 may be configured to display the associated distance on the HMI. In some examples, as shown with reference to Figures 37 to 39, the manoeuvring area 600 comprises one or more guide elements 606 for facilitating lining up the object, such as trailer to the lift 400. The one or more guide 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 element(s) may line one or more sides of the manoeuvring area 600, such as along the first zone 601, second zone 602, and third zone 603. In an example, the truck bed may be provided with one or more cradles for receiving the trailer when lowered onto the truck bed. The cradles may assist aligning the trailer when lowered onto the truck bed for further transport. In some examples, the cradle may be used to guide the trailer into an adequate transport configuration on the truck bed. In some examples, the cradle(s) are configured to align the wheels of the trailer as it is lowered onto the truck bed. In an example, with reference to Figure 40 a system 1000 for lifting an object is provided. The system 100 may comprise any one or more of: the lift device 100; the lift assembly 200 comprising the lift device 100; a lift 400 connected to the lift device 100 and / or lift assembly 200; controller 500 for controlling the operation of the lift device 100, lift assembly 200 and / or lift 400; an HMI 650 operatively coupled to the controller 500; and optionally an entry system 700A and / or exit system 700B. The lift 400 connected to the lift device 100 and / or lift assembly 200 may be referred to as a lift system. The lift system may comprise the lift 400, lift device 100 and / or or lift assembly. The entry system 700A may comprise a barrier, such as boom or gate, for preventing unauthorised access to the manoeuvring area 600, and only allowing authorised access. The entry system 700A may be configured to authorise access to an operator based on processing operator credentials and / or vehicle registration no. Based on the authorised access the entry system 700A may be configured to move the barrier, such as by raising the boom, allowing the operator access to the manoeuvring area 600 and to position the trailer within the lifting zone 603. Based on enabling access to the manoeuvring area 600 the entry system may be configured to transmit or trigger an active mode trigger signal. The controller 500 may be configured to set to operate in an active mode upon accessing the active mode signal from the entry system 700A. The exit system 700B like the entry system 700A comprise a barrier, such as boom or gate, for preventing unauthorised access to the manoeuvring area 600, and only allowing an authorised operator to exit the manoeuvring area 600. The exit system 700B may be configured to authorise the operator to exit the manoeuvring area 600 based on processing operator credentials and / or vehicle registration no. 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 Based on the authorised exit the exit system may be configured to move the barrier, such as by raising the boom, allowing the operator to exit the manoeuvring area 600. Based on the authorised exit the exit system 700B may be configured to transmit or trigger an idle mode signal. The controller 500 may be configured to set to operate in a standby mode upon accessing the standby mode signal from the exit system 700B. In some examples, the controller 500 is configured to control the operation of the entry system 700A and / or exit system 700B. In an example, with reference to Figure 42, a process 800 for lifting a trailer onto a truck bed is provided. The process 800 comprises one or more of: authorising 801 operator entry to manoeuvring area 600 (if entry system is provided); positioning 802 trailer in lifting zone 603; decoupling 803 trailer (such as tow hitch of trailer) from truck; connecting 804 lift device / assembly to lift portion LP of trailer; lifting 805 trailer using the lifting assembly to a level off ground; swinging 806 drawer bar on trailer; lifting 807 trailer using the lifting assembly to level above truck bed; positioning 808 truck in lifting zone 603 for receiving lifted trailer; lowering 809 (de-hoisting) trailer onto truck bed; disconnecting 810 lift device / assembly from lift portion LP of trailer; and authorising 811 operator exit from manoeuvring area 600 (if exit system is provided). In an example, the process 800 forms a best method for lifting a trailer onto a truck bed. Once a log trailer has been lifted onto the truck the trailer is typically offloaded again at the tree logging location. Conventionally, log trailers may be offloaded using an excavator operated by the logging crew. However, while offloading the trailer is typically executed at a non-central location away from the lift system disclosed herein, it should be appreciated that the lift system according to some examples is configured to offload the trailer from the truck bed, and to enable coupling of the offloaded trailer to the truck hitch, as required. Such a process 900 for lifting a trailer off a truck bed is disclosed with reference to Figure 43. The process 900 comprises one or more of: 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 authorising 901 operator entry to manoeuvring area 600 (if entry system is provided); positioning 902 truck in lifting zone 603 for lifting the trailer off the truck bed; connecting 903 / 804 lift device / assembly to lift portion LP of trailer; lifting 904 trailer to level off truck bed using the lifting assembly; positioning 905 truck for coupling to trailer; lowering 906 (de-hoisting) trailer a level off ground; and swinging 907 / 806 drawer bar on trailer for coupling to truck; lowering 908 (de-hoisting) trailer onto manoeuvring area 600; and disconnecting 909 / 810 lift device / assembly from lift portion LP of trailer; coupling 910 trailer (such as tow hitch of trailer) to truck; authorising 911 operator exit from manoeuvring area 600 (if exit system is provided). In some examples, the controller 500 is configured to control the entry system barrier and / or exit system barrier to prevent access to the manoeuvring area 600. The controller 500 may be said to operate in the standby mode when there is no vehicle and or trailer in the manoeuvring area 600 and / or the barriers of the entry system 700A and / or exit system 700B are closed. In the standby mode the controller 500 may be configured to control at least one traffic light unit 652 adjacent the entry system barrier to display red. The controller 500 may further control the HMI to display a message for operator to “AUTHORISE” themselves or the vehicle. During the step of authorising 801, 901 the controller 500 may be configured to access information of the vehicle and / or operator. The controller 500 may compare the information with stored information about authorised vehicles and / or operators. The controller 500 may be configured to authorise the vehicle and / or operator based on a match between the accessed information and the information stored. The controller 500 may be configured to provide access to the manoeuvring area 600, e.g.by controlling the operation of the barrier, e.g. by raising the boom or opening the gate, based on the authorisation. The controller 500 may control the entry traffic light unit 652 to green based on the authorisation. Upon completion of the operation of the barrier an active mode signal may be triggered by the controller 500. The controller 500 may be set to operate in an active mode based on accessing the active mode signal. Upon the vehicle being clear of the entry system, the controller 500 is configured to control the operation of the entry system barrier to prevent further 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 access to the manoeuvring area 600, e.g. by lowering the entry boom or closing the gate. In some examples, the controller 500 controls the operation of the barrier based on a signal from a sensor or the object detection unit 410 detecting the truck has reached the first zone, or warning zone 601. Based on operating the entry barrier, the controller 500 may control the entry traffic light unit 652 to RED. In addition to the optional entry system, a further traffic light unit 652 and HMI may be arranged within view of the operator at or adjacent the lift system 400, 100, 200. Depending on the stage of the lifting sequence the controller 500 may be configured to control the operation of the object detection unit 410, traffic light unit 652, and HMI according to the following table: Step Description Controller configured to Traffic HMI light message unit 652 801 Authorise a) Access information, such as vehicle G Welcome operator registration, operator information, and / or EPL fob); b) compare information with stored authorisation information; c) authorise entry upon match between accessed information and stored information; d) control operation of entry system 700A (opening gate / raising boom); e) activate active mode; f) activate object detection unit 410; g) control operation of entry system 700A (closing gate, lowering boom) based on received sensor input on vehicle being clear of entry area. 802 Position trailer in a) control object detection unit 410 in object O Line up 1stzone detection mode, Trailer b) access signal from object detection unit 410 Reflector when detecting truck has passed warning zone 601; 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 c) access signal control from object detection unit 410 that trailer is within warning zone 601; d) and based on a) and b) control traffic light unit 652 and HMI 650; 802 Position trailer in e) access signal from object detection unit 410 O Line up 2nd zone (in object detection mode) that truck is in flashing Trailer truck zone 604; Reflector f) control object detection unit 410 to operate in reflector detection mode (optionally in parallel with the object detection mode); g) access signal from object detection unit 410 (in reflector detection mode) that trailer (trailer reflector) is in alignment zone 602 (2ndzone); and h) based on e) and f) control traffic light unit 652 and HMI 650. 802 Position trailer i) access signal from object detection unit 410 R Line up 3rdzone to start (in object detection mode) that truck is in Trailer lifting truck zone and register a 1sttruck position; Reflector j) access signal from object detection unit 410 (in reflector detection mode) that trailer (trailer reflector) is in lifting zone 603 (3rdzone); k) based on a) and b) control traffic light unit 652 and HMI 650; l) activate HPU 405. 804 Connect lift a) access signal from object detection unit 410 R Trailer device / assembly (in object detection mode) that current truck lined up to trailer position is further forward than original truck position, or that current truck position is at a larger distance away from the trailer reflector position than the distance between the 1sttruck position and the trailer reflector position (confirming trailer has been disconnected from truck); b) receive user input (e.g. from HMI 650 start button) to start the lifting sequence; 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 c) based on a) and b) control the lift into position above trailer lift portion LP / lift bar (from position A forming a start position to position B); d) receive user input (e.g. from UP / DOWN buttons and / or optionally FWD / BACK buttons) and control the lift 400 accordingly. 804 Connect lift e) receive user input (e.g. from UP / DOWN R Manual device / assembly buttons) from HMI 650; and adjustment to trailer f) based on a) control the lift 400 accordingly to of clamp lower lift device 100 / lift assembly 200 (between positions B of Figures 31A / 31B & C of Figures 32A / 32B relating to max / min positions when connecting trailer). In response to f) the respective clamp member(s) moves into its closed position, and the safety bracket(s) moved to its locked position. 804’ Connect lift for a lift assembly comprising two lift devices: R Unsuccessf device / assembly a) receive positive proximity sensor input from flashing ul to trailer – Lift proximity sensor 105 of first lift device 100 of Clamping assembly lift assembly 200; connection error b) receive positive proximity sensor input from proximity sensor 105 of second lift device 100 of lift assembly 200; c) receive user input (e.g. from Start button) of HMI 650 to start lifting of trailer); d) based on a), b), and c) control change to traffic light unit 652 (to flashing red) if only positive proximity sensor input 105 from one of the two lift devices is received; e) optionally disabling further user input until position B (step 804b) has been reached; and f) based on d) control to position B (step 804b). 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 805 Lift trailer – to a) receive positive proximity sensor input from R Move truck 1stlevel off proximity sensor 105 of first lift device 100 of clear to ground lift assembly 200 (indicated the respective swing draw clamp member is in the closed position and bar the respective safety bracket is in the locked position); b) receive positive proximity sensor input from proximity sensor 105 of second lift device 100 of lift assembly 200; c) Receive user input (e.g. from Start button) of HMI 650 to start lift of trailer); d) Based on c) and positively receiving positive proximity sensor input from each lift device 100 control the lift 400 to lift the trailer off ground to position enabling spinning the trailer drawer bar (in position D of Figures 33A and 33B) 806 Swing trailer a) receiving user input (e.g. from Start button) of R Swing drawer bar HMI 650 to continue lift once trailer drawer draw bar bar has been spun to its transport position; then lift b) based on a) control lift 400 to full height trailer position (position E of Figures 34A and 34B) 807 Lift trailer to 2nda) receive sensor input from cylinder position G Back truck level above truck sensors when the trailer has reached position up bed level F; b) based on a) control traffic light unit 652 change to green. 808 Position truck in a) receive input from object detection unit 410 O Back truck 1stzone (in object detection mode) that truck in within up first zone 601; b) based on a) control traffic light unit 652 change 808 Position truck in c) receive input from object detection unit 410 O Back truck 2ndzone (in object detection mode) that truck in within flashing up second zone 602; d) based on c) control traffic light unit 652 change to flashing orange. 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 808 Position truck in e) receive input from object detection unit 410 R Lower 3rdzone (in reflector mode) that truck in within third trailer onto zone 603; and Trailer based on a) control traffic light unit 652 change to red; 809 Lower trailer a) based on completion of 808e) and upon R Lower onto truck bed receiving user input (e.g. from HMI start trailer onto button) from HMI 650 control the lift 40 to Trailer lower the trailer onto preset level (position F of Figures 35A and 35B) above truck bed the truck bed. 809 Lower trailer b) receive user input (e.g. from UP / DOWN R Manual onto truck bed buttons) to control lift to lower the trailer adjustment onto the truck bed (between position F of of lift Figures 35A and 35B and position G of device Figures 36A and 36B). 810 Disconnect lift c) receive input from load sensor(s) that trailer R Trailer device / assembly is resting on truck bed (lift device 100 is no Release from trailer lift longer holding the load of the trailer); portion LP d) receive user input (e.g. from Start button) of HMI 650 for decoupling the lift device 100 from lift portion LP; e) based on c) and d) operate hydraulic piston of safety bracket to move into its open position; f) Based on e) control lift 400 to move lift device 100 / assembly 200 upwards to release the lift device 100 from the lift portion LP, whereby the clamp members 1031, 1032 are moved from their closed position to their open position. 810 Disconnect lift a) based on d) above control lift 400 to move lift R Folding device / assembly device / assembly to start position (position A) away from trailer lift portion LP – move lift to start position 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 811 Authorise a) receive input (such as lift sensor input from G Lift operator exit lift cylinder position sensors) that lift 400 has complete reached position A; b) control traffic light unit 652 change; c) control operation of exit system 700B (opening gate, raising boom) based on a) and / or sensor input detecting truck approaching exit system. d) control operation of exit system 700B (closing gate, lowering boom) when truck has left manoeuvring area 600 and exit system 7400B, e.g. after a set time. Based on accessing the active mode trigger signal the controller 500 may be configured to operate in its active mode. In an example, the controller 500 is configured to activate the object detection unit 410 based on the active mode trigger signal. In some examples, throughout the operation of the lifting process, the controller 500 is configured to stop lifting operation upon accessing signals from the object detection unit 410 associated with information that abnormal obstacles and / or people are present in the manoeuvring area 600. Upon stopping lifting operation, the controller may be configured to trigger an alert signal and / or message on the HMI screen to warn operator and / or identified persons. In an example, the controller 500 may be operatively connected to a camera system for detecting an identify, such as number plate, of the trailer and / or truck towing or carrying the trailer. The controller 500 may be configured to access the identify. The controller 500 may be further configured to match the identify to authorised identities stored. Based on a match the controller 500 may control the entry system to allow access to the manoeuvring area, e.g. by raising the boom of the entry system. The camera system may thus be used to automatically detecting number plates and allowing access to the manoeuvring area. Alternatively, or additionally, the controller may register the identity, optionally including further information such as time stamp, to form part of a log. In an example, the camera system may be configured to detect location of the driver / operator when moving around the manoeuvring area 600. Detection of a person in a high-risk area of the manoeuvring area may be used by the controller to trigger an alarm signal and / or stop of operation until person has left the associated high-risk area. 100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 In some examples, the camera system and / or controller software may utilise image analysis code segments or code segments based on artificial intelligence tailored at detecting and identifying object identity, truck identity, number plate(s), people, and / or people identity. People identity could for example be detected by face recognition software.

Claims

100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 CLAIMS 1. A lift device for lifting an object, comprising a body having a slot for receiving a lift portion of the object; a clamp mechanism comprising a first clamp member and a second clamp member pivotably attached to the body, wherein the first clamp member and second clamp member are symmetrically arranged in relation to a centreline of the slot, and configured to pivotably move between an open position for receiving the lift portion when the lift portion is introduced into the slot and a closed position for enclosing the lift portion; a safety mechanism comprising a safety bracket slidably arranged to the body, wherein the safety bracket is arranged to slidably move between an unlocked position and a locked position when the first clamp member and second clamp member are in the closed position, wherein the safety bracket in its locked position is arranged to prevent the first clamp member and second clamp member from moving towards the open position.

2. The lift device of claim 1, wherein a first clamp member is pivotably attached to the body via a first pivot joint, and the second clamp member is pivotably attached to the body via a second pivot joint, wherein a location of the first pivot joint differs from a location of the second pivot joint.

3. The lift device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the respective first and second pivot joints are located laterally offset the slot, and longitudinally offset a terminating end of the slot.

4. The lift device of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the safety bracket comprises a first arm for engaging the first clamp member, a second arm for engaging the second clamp member, and a support member connecting the first arm to the second arm.

5. The lift device of claim 4, wherein the first arm is parallel with the second arm.

6. The lift device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first clamp member comprises a first engagement member, the first engagement member extending outwardly from a body of the first clamp member,100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 and comprising a first engagement surface for engaging a first arm of the safety bracket, the second clamp member comprises a second engagement member, the second engagement member extending outwardly from a body of the second clamp member, and comprising a second engagement surface for engaging a second arm of the safety bracket, 7. The lift device of claim 6, wherein each of the first engagement surface and second engagement surface has a curved cross section for slidable engagement with an end such as an outermost end, of a respective arm of the safety bracket, wherein a curvature of the curved cross section of the first engagement surface conforms with a portion of a circular arc having a radius equal to the distance between the first engagement surface and the first pivot joint, wherein the end of the first arm is configured to slide along the first engagement surface when the first clamp member moves from the open position towards the closed position, in use, and wherein a curvature of the curved cross section of the second engagement surface conforms with a portion of a circular arc having a radius equal to the distance between the second engagement surface and the second pivot joint, wherein the end of the second arm is configured to slide along the second engagement surface when the second clamp member moves from the open position towards the closed position, in use.

8. The lift device of claim 7, wherein a distance between the outermost ends of the engagement members when the first clamp member and second clamp member are in the closed position is equal to or smaller than a closest interior distance between the first arm, and second arm, thereby allowing the ends of the respective arms to slide past the engagement members to prevent the engagement members from moving outwardly and keep the first clamp member and second clamp member in the closed position.

9. The lift device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the safety bracket is slidably movable between an unlocked position to a locked position in a direction parallel to a centreline of the slot.

10. The lift device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first clamp member has a first interior clamp surface, and100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 the second clamp member has a second interior clamp surface, wherein the first interior clamp surface and second interior clamp surface respectively has a circular or substantially circular cross section.

11. The lift device of claim 10, wherein at least part of the respective first and second interior clamp surface is configured to engage the lift portion to force the first clamp member and second clamp member from the open position to the closed position.

12. The lift device of claim 10 or 11, wherein the respective interior first and second interior clamp surface forms an arc with an arc angle of 170 to 180 degrees, such as 175 to 180 degrees, such as 177 degrees to 180 degrees, such as 179 degrees.

13. The lift device of any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the respective first and second interior clamp surface has a curvature conforming with that of a terminating end of the slot.

14. The lift device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the clamp mechanism further comprises a first spring, wherein the first spring is attached at one end to a first spring attachment member of a first clamp member, and at an opposite end to a second spring attachment member of a second clamp member, wherein the first spring is under constant tension whereby the first spring acts to urge the first clamp member and second clamp member towards the open position.

15. The lift device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the body has a recess for engaging an end of a respective arm of the safety bracket in the locked position, wherein the recess when engaged with the end of the respective arm is configured to prevent the respective arm to move laterally in the locked position.

16. The lift device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the safety mechanism is arranged to be hydraulically operated.

17. The lift device of claim 16, wherein the safety mechanism comprises a hydraulic piston rigidly attached to the body, wherein the hydraulic piston has a piston rod attached to the safety bracket, wherein the piston rod is configured to100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 extend when hydraulic pressure is applied to the hydraulic piston, thereby moving the safety bracket to its unlocked position.

18. The lift device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the safety mechanism further comprises at least a second spring at one end attached to the safety bracket and at the other end attached to the body, wherein the at least one second spring is under constant tension and configured to urge the safety bracket towards its locked position.

19. The lift device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first clamp member and second clamp member have respective end faces extending in a plane offset to a median plane of the lift device.

20. The lift device of claim 19, wherein an end face of the first clamp member extends in first plane offset the median plane, and an end face of the second clamp member extends in a second plane offset the median plane, wherein the first plane is parallel to or is identical to the second plane.

21. The lift device of any one of the claims 1 to 20, wherein the slot in a extends straight through a proximal end of the lift device along an axis formed in a median plane of the lift device and normal to a frontal plane of the lift device.

22. The lift device of any one of the preceding claims, comprising one or more of a: a first proximity sensor configured to detect proximity to the safety bracket; and a second proximity sensor configured to detect proximity between the clamp members in the closed position.

23. A lift assembly comprising a spacer element; a first lift device of any one of claims 1 to 22 attached to one end of the spacer element; and a second lift device of any one of claims 1 to 22 attached to a second end of the spacer element.

24. The lift assembly of claim 23, wherein the first lift device and second lift device are symmetrically arranged with respect to the spacer element.100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 25. A lift system for lifting an object, comprising a lift device of any one of claims 1 to 22, and / or a lift assembly of any one of claims 23 to 24, and a lift attached to the lift device or lift assembly, wherein the lift is configured to position the lift device and / or lift assembly for lifting the object, in use.

26. The lift system of claim 25, further comprising a controller configured to control operation of the lift, an object detection unit operatively coupled to the controller, and configured to operate in an object detection mode for detecting an object present in an operating area of the object detection unit, wherein the object detection unit is configured to provide a signal when the object is located within a lifting zone, and wherein the controller is configured to control operation of the lift based on accessing the signal.

27. The lift system of claim 26, wherein the object detection unit is configured to provide the signal to the controller upon detecting presence of a reflector attached to the object when the reflector is within the lifting zone.

28. The lift system of claim 27 wherein the object detection unit comprises a light detection and ranging (LIDAR) sensor.

29. The lift system of any one of claims 25 to 28, wherein the lift comprises: a lift body attached to a support structure; a lift boom pivotably attached to the lift body; a lift arm pivotably attached to the lift boom, wherein the lift arm is attached to the lift device and / or lift assembly; and one or more hydraulic cylinders connected between the lift boom and lift body, between the lift arm and lift body, and / or between the lift arm and the device and / or lift assembly.

30. The lift system of any one of claims 25 to 29, further comprising at least one of the following: one or more hydraulic pumps;100648918 / 3456-5032-2480.1 one or more load sensors for detecting load held by the lift device and / or lift assembly; one or more high pressure sensor for detecting system overload; one or more inclination sensors for determining position or orientation of the one or more hydraulic cylinder(s); one or more cylinder transducers to measure extension of the one or more hydraulic cylinder(s); one or more oil level sensors; one or more load holding valves; one or more human machine interfaces; one or more traffic light units; an entry system; and an exit system.

Images