Description
This class is the locus for apparatus (i.e., elevator) for shiftinga discrete load, in its entirety, from an entry level to a verticallyspaced exit level along a fixed path when the apparatus includes(a) a reciprocating, load-underlying, support surface (e.g., car),(b) rigid or semirigid means for contacting and limiting the travelof the load support surface to the fixed vertical path, and (c) either(1) drive-means* (e.g., fluid motor, manually operatedlinkage) for transmitting to the load support surface the forcenecessary to shift the load between the levels or (2) motion resistingmeans (e.g., counterweight) for slowing the travel of the load supporting surfacewhen moving from a higher load entry level to a lower load exitlevel.
In addition, this class is the locus for a fixedly mounted apparatus(i.e., vehicle lift) which elevates a discrete vehicle, in its entirety,from a lower entrance and exit level to a significantly higher upperlevel where the vehicle is intended to be repaired or inspectedwhen the apparatus includes both (a) a vertically reciprocating, vehicle-underlyingsupport surface and (b) drive-means* for transmitting tothe support surface the force necessary for it to elevate the vehicle.
Further, this class is the locus for a mobile wheeled or trackedapparatus (e.g., forklift) which travels to, picks up, and shiftsa discrete load, in its entirety, from one level to another verticallyspaced level and then carries the load, while still fully supportedthereby, a short horizontal distance (e.g., length of a warehouse)to a load discharge point; when the apparatus includes (a) a verticallyreciprocating load support surface (e.g., forks) which travels onlyalong a confined linear path and (b) drive-means* for transmittingto the support surface the force necessary for it to elevate theload.
This class also provides for a subcombination of one of theabove types of apparatus when (a) no specific locus for the subcombinationexists in another class and (b) the subcombination is limited touse with the above types of apparatus by a structural modification.
Finally, this class also provides for an ancillary device (e.g.,call registration system) which is (a) used exclusively with and(b) has its operation either influencing or being influenced bythe operation of one of the above types of apparatus when no particularlocus exists for the device in another class.