Load wheel changing device
OwnerBrock Hillinventor
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Method and apparatus for a device for connection to and support of a load wheel so that the load wheel can be easily and safely removed from a crane, and transported about as necessary to repair and/or replace the load wheel. The device includes left and right side-plates, left and right bases, left and right rear walls and along with left and right rear connectors which connect to an upper cross-T of a stanchion which is supported on a sliding rail mount which is attachable to the rail upon which the load wheel rolls. The device bolts directly to the bearing housing of the load wheel so that the axle of the load wheel can be carried on the left or right lower bases of the device. The device is then slidable along the rail upon which the load wheel of the overhead or gantry crane travels.
Claims18
A wheel support system for removal and replacement of at least one load wheel of a gantry, comprising:
- a) a gantry having a carriage supported by said at least one load wheel mounted for rotation on an axle, said at least one load wheel being supported on said axle by a bearing housing;
- b) a rail positioned for said at least one load wheel to roll along a top surface of said rail;
- and
- c) a cradle assembly slidable on said rail for engaging said bearing housing for rolling said at least one load wheel and said bearing housing directly away from a mounted position of said at least one load wheel on said gantry along said rail for repair or replacement, and whereby said support system operates in a hands-free manner providing worker safety.
A method of removing at least one load wheel from a gantry for replacement or repair, comprising the steps of:
- a) providing a gantry having a carriage supported by the at least one load wheel mounted for rotation on an axle, said at least one load wheel being supported on said axle by a bearing housing;
- b) providing a rail for said at least one load wheel to roll along a top surface of said rail directly from a mounted position of said at least one wheel in said carriage;
- and
- c) sliding a cradle assembly on said rail for engaging said bearing housing for rolling said at least one load wheel along said rail away from said gantry for repair or replacement, whereby said method operates in a hands-free manner providing worker safety.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.