WO2014127238A2

WO2014127238A2 - Two-post vehicle lift with opposing lifting carriages

Info

Publication number: WO2014127238A2
Application number: PCT/US2014/016486
Authority: WO
Inventors: Gary Martin HENTHORN
Original assignee: Dannmar Worldwide, Inc.
Priority date: 2013-02-15
Filing date: 2014-02-14
Publication date: 2014-08-21
Also published as: WO2014127238A3

Abstract

A stationary vehicle lift has a first column and a second column. Each column has a first carriage member and a second carriage member. The two carriage members are connected to extension arms that are configured to support a stationary vehicle. The two carriage members are connected to a lifting mechanism that is disposed between them such that the two carriage members are on diametrically opposing sides of the lifting mechanism.

Description

TWO-POST VEHICLE LIFT WITH OPPOSING LIFTING CARRIAGES

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO ANY PRIORITY APPLICATIONS

[0001] Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the present application are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR 1.57.

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.

61/765,598, filed February 15, 2013, entitled TWO-POST VEHICLE LIFT WITH

OPPOSING LIFTING CARRIAGES, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention generally relates to stationary lifts for vehicles. More particularly, the present invention relates to stationary lifts for vehicles that include driven sustaining columns on opposing sides of the lifts.

Description of the Related Art

[0004] A wide variety of post-type automobile lifts have been previously known and used in the automobile repair business and by hobbyists to provide access to the underside of a vehicle. Post lifts can be either of the in-ground or above-ground variety. In- ground post lifts usually have one or two vertically ascending columns mounted below the floor of a garage or service area. The columns can be raised hydraulically to lift the vehicle. Above-ground post lifts generally have two or four columns or "posts," each of which includes a single carriage that moves up and down along one side of the column.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] With regard to above-ground post lifts, each of the carriages that move up and down along one side of the column includes two outwardly extending outriggers or arms that engage the undercarriage of a vehicle to be lifted. Because the arms are attached to the carriage, the arms generally extend away from one side of the column. Examples of such a configuration are shown in U.S. Patent No. 6,866,124 and U.S. Patent No. 5,284,224, for example.

[0006] With reference to U.S. Patent No. 6,866,124, to decrease the footprint of the lifts, the two square columns can be rotated such that the faces of the columns are not aligned with the vehicle-accommodating opening defined between the posts. By rotating the orientation of the two square columns, the columns can be placed closer together while better accommodating the opening of a vehicle door. While this allows a reasonably compact footprint, further improvement is desired.

[0007] In addition, as shown in Figures 3 and 4 of U.S. Patent No. 6,866,124, the prior lifts featured a single carriage 40 that moved within in a single channel 32, which channel was positioned along one side of each column. Such a configuration desirably reduced part counts and simplified construction. The single carriage 40 would be moved up and down with a hydraulic drive mechanism or other operating components of a drive mechanism. Nevertheless, because all of the weight of the vehicle was supported on the single carriage on each column, the hydraulic ram of each column would be subjected to asymmetrical loading and the related bending moment. The bending moment requires reinforcing of the hydraulic ram or the like to withstand the asymmetrical loading.

[0008] Certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention relate to the recognition of the challenges raised by the asymmetrical loading and the desire for a possibly further-reduced footprint or enlarged vehicle-accommodating opening. Moreover, certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention relate to the recognition that duplicating the carriage and positioning two opposing carriages on each hydraulic ram could both reduce the asymmetrical loading while also improving clearance between the operating components of the life and the vehicle. By improving the clearance, a decision can be made whether to reduce the footprint of the lift or to leave the footprint the same and take advantage of the improved clearance.

[0009] In one aspect, a stationary vehicle lift may include a pair of lifting columns. Each lifting column may include a column base, a post extending upwardly from the column base, two lifting carriage members moveably mounted on opposing sides of the post, and an actuator connected to the lifting carriage members for movement of the lifting carriage members along the post. Each lifting carriage member may have an extension arm extending outwardly therefrom. In some aspects, the extension arms may be rotatably connected to the lifting carriage members with clevis members. In some aspects, the extension arms may be selectively secured in an angular position with respect to the lifting columns. In some aspects, each extension arm may further include a telescoping section such that each telescoping section extends the length of each extension arm. In some aspects, the lift may also include an upper support member connecting the two columns of the lift. In some aspects, the upper support member may be extendable. In some aspects, the pair of lifting columns may be selectively secured in an angular position with respect to the upper support member.

[0010] In another aspect, a two-column stationary vehicle lift may include a column base. A post may extend upwardly from the base. The post may have a rectangular cross-section including a rear wall, a front wall, and opposing side walls connecting the front and rear walls, a first axially-extending slot disposed in the front wall, and a second axially- extending slot disposed in the rear wall. The lift may also include a lifting mechanism positioned within the post. The lift may also include a first lifting carriage member connected to the lifting mechanism through the first slot, a first extension arm pivotally connected to and extending outward from the first lifting carriage member, the extension arm being adjustable in length. The lift may also include a second lifting carriage member connected to the lifting mechanism through the second slot, a second extension arm pivotally connected to and extending outward from the second lifting carriage member, the extension arm being adjustable in length. In some aspects, the first and second extension arms may be rotatably connected to the lifting carriages with first and second clevis members, respectively. In some aspects, the first and second extension arms may be selectively secured in an angular position with respect to the lifting columns. In some aspects, the first extension arm may also include a first telescoping section and the second extension arm may also include a second telescoping section such that each telescoping section extends the length of each extension arm. In some aspects, the lift may also include an upper support member connecting the two columns of the hydraulic lift. In some aspects, the upper support member is extendable. In some aspects, the two lifting columns may be selectively secured in an angular position with respect to the upper support member.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will be described below in conjunction with the appended drawings, which are provided to illustrate and not to limit the disclosed features, aspects and advantages of the present invention. In the drawings, like designations denote like elements.

[0012] FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of an automobile lift that is arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] FIG. 2A illustrates a front perspective view of the lift of FIG. 1.

[0014] FIG. 2B illustrates an enlarged front perspective view of the right-side column of the lift of FIG. 1.

[0015] FIG. 2C illustrates a rear perspective view of the lift of FIG. 1.

[0016] FIG. 3 illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of the left-side column of the lift of FIG. 1 , illustrating a lifting carriage and an extension arm of the lift.

[0017] FIG. 4 illustrates an enlarged view of a lifting carriage and attachment region of the extension arm of the lift of FIG. 1.

[0018] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a lifting column of the lift taken generally along line 5-5 in FIG. 2C.

[0019] FIG. 6 illustrates another front perspective view of an automobile lift that is arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] FIG. 7 illustrates an overhead view of the lift of FIG. 6.

[0021] FIG. 8 illustrates a bracket that may be used with the lift of FIG. 6.

[0022] FIG. 9 illustrates a second overhead view of the lift of FIG. 6.

[0023] FIG. 10 illustrates a third overhead view of the lift of FIG. 6.

[0024] FIG. 11 illustrates a fourth overhead view of the lift of FIG. 6. [0025] FIG. 12A illustrates a front perspective view of a carriage base and carriage members of the lift of FIG. 6.

[0026] FIG. 12B illustrates an enlarged view of a carriage member and attachment region of the carriage member of the lift of FIG. 6.

[0027] FIG. 12C illustrates a view of a carriage member of the lift of FIG. 6.

[0028] FIG. 12D illustrates a view of a second embodiment of a carriage member of the lift of FIG. 6.

[0029] FIG. 13 illustrates an extension arm of the lift of FIG. 6.

[0030] FIG. 14 A- 14D illustrate views of the carriage base of FIG. 12A.

[0031] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a carriage assembly including a carriage base and carriage members.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0032] Figure 1 illustrates a stationary vehicle lift 20 that is arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of an embodiment of the present invention. The illustrated configuration is a hydraulic lift but other lifting mechanisms can be used. In addition, the illustrated configuration has particular utility in lifts having two posts but certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention may have utility with lifts of other configurations.

[0033] With reference still to Figure 1, the illustrated lift 20 has two lifting columns: a first lifting column 22a and a second lifting column 22b. The lifting columns 22a, 22b can extend generally vertically.

[0034] In some configurations, the columns 22a, 22b can extend upwardly from respective column bases 24a, 24b. The column bases 24a, 24b can be adapted to be bolted or otherwise secured to a ground surface, such as a concrete slab or the like, when the lift 20 is in use. In some configurations, however, the column bases 24a, 24b may not be secured to the ground.

[0035] In some configurations, the two lifting columns 22a, 22b may be interconnected by an upper support assembly 26. The upper support assembly 26 can support cables or the like that extend between the two columns 22a, 22b. The upper support assembly 26 can be secured to the two lifting columns 22a, 22b in any suitable manner. In the illustrated configurations, the upper support assembly 26 is attached using threaded fasteners or the like.

[0036] In some configurations, the lifting columns 22a, 22b can be configured to extend generally parallel with each other in a symmetrical arrangement. In some configurations, the columns 22a, 22b can be configured in an asymmetrical arrangement. In some configurations, the lifting columns 22a, 22b can be configured in an asymmetrical arrangement and can be oriented such that the lifting columns are diagonally offset from each other. For example, in such an arrangement, the lifting columns 22a, 22b can be arranged along a generally vertical plane that intersects in a non-perpendicular manner a generally vertical longitudinal plane that would generally bisect a supported vehicle when the lift 20 is in use. In some configurations, the columns 22a, 22b include two opposing faces that are neither parallel nor perpendicular to the generally vertical longitudinal plane that would generally bisect the vehicle when the lift 20 is in use. In some configurations, the columns 22a, 22b are rotated about 30 degrees from each other when facing the load center of the vehicle.

[0037] In the illustrated configuration, each lifting column 22a, 22b comprises a respective post 30a, 30b. In some configurations, one of the two posts 30a, 30b is a power- side post while the other of the two posts 30a, 30b is an off-side post. Details relating to the power unit and the like have been omitted for simplicity and, accordingly, the two posts 30a, 30b have not been further defined herein.

[0038] The two posts 30a, 30b are generally identical to each other but, as described above, may be rotated about a longitudinal axis relative to each other prior to being secured to the respective column bases 24a, 24b. Accordingly, the left post 30b will be described initially with reference to Figure 5 and the description could equally apply to the other post 30a.

[0039] In the illustrated configuration, the post 30b can be generally quadrilateral (e.g., generally rectangular) in cross-section. In some configurations, the post 30b can include a first wall 32 and a second wall 34 that are generally parallel to each other. Preferably, the first wall 32 and the second wall 34 are generally parallel to each other. Other configurations of the posts are possible keeping in mind a desire for opposing openings, as will be discussed below.

[0040] As shown in Figure 5, a first slot 36 and a second slot 40 can be formed in the post 30b. Similar slots (42, 44) can be formed in the other post 30a. Each of the slots 36, 40 can be defined by flanges 46 that extend inwardly or can simply be formed as openings in the surrounding walls. In the illustrated configuration, at least a portion of each of the slots 36, 40 can be defined by the in-turned flanges 46, which improves the rigidity of the associated post 30b. Other suitable configurations are possible.

[0041] With reference again to Figure 1, the first slot 36 can extend generally vertically along at least a portion of the first wall 32. The second slot 40, as shown in Figure 2C, can extend generally vertically along at least a portion of the second wall 34. The first wall 32 can be a front wall while the second wall 34 can be a back wall. Generally speaking, the first wall 32 and the second wall 34 can be generally parallel. In some configuration, the first slot 36 and the second slot 40 can define generally parallel openings in the post 30b.

[0042] In some configurations, the two slots 36, 40 can extend vertically substantially the same distance. In some configurations, the two slots have a lower extreme at generally the same vertical position as each other. In some configurations, the two slots have an upper extreme at generally the same vertical position as each other. In some configurations, the first and second slots 36, 40 are generally identical to each other. In some configurations, the first and second slots 36, 40 extend only partially up the full height of the associated post 30b. In some configurations, the first and second slots 36, 40 extend the full height of the post 30b while the two portions of the post 30b positioned on each side of each of the slots 36, 40 can be joined together with connecting members. The connecting members can be positioned outside of a range of movement of an associated carriage.

[0043] As discussed above, a second pair of slots 42, 44 can be formed on the other of the two posts 30a. In some configurations, the second post 30a and the second pair of slots 42, 44 can be formed in the same manner as the left post 30b and the pair of slots 36, 40.

[0044] Any suitable lifting mechanism can be positioned within the posts 30a, 30b of the lifting columns 22a, 22b. In some configurations, the lifting mechanisms can be hydraulic in nature. For example, a hydraulic cylinder assembly (not shown) can be positioned within the posts 30a, 30b of the lifting columns 12. Such a configuration can be similar to the configuration shown and described in U.S. Patent No. 8,256,577, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0045] A carriage base 50a, 50b can be positioned within each of the respective posts 30a, 30b. With reference to Figure 5, the carriage base 50, in some configurations, can be a vertical length of square tubing that is sized to allow the carriage bases 50a, 50b to travel within the posts 30a, 30b. Any other suitable configuration can be used. The carriage bases 50a, 50b can be used to connect respective carriage members 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d to the lifting mechanisms. Any other suitable technique can be used to join the carriage members to the lifting mechanisms.

[0046] To connect the carriage bases 50a, 50b to the carriages 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d, at least a portion of one or more of the carriage bases 50a, 50b and the carriages 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d can extend through the associated slots 36, 40, 42, 44, for example but without limitation. In some configurations, with the carriage bases 50a, 50b positioned inside of the posts and the carriages 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d positioned outside of the posts, a coupling that joins the two will extend through the slots 36, 40, 42, 44.

[0047] As shown in Figure 2A, in the illustrated configuration, each lifting column 22a, 22b can include a pair of lifting carriage members 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d. Each pair of the lifting carriage members 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d can be located such that one of each pair is on an opposing side of the associated post 30a, 30b. In other words, each pair of the lifting carriage members 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d can be positioned such that the two paired lifting carriages (52a, 52b and 52c, 52d) are separated by about 180 degrees from the other of the pair. Such a configuration advantageously balances the load across the lifting mechanism.

[0048] As shown in Figure 5, the carriage base 50b is attached to the carriage members 52c, 52d. In some configurations, the carriage base 50b is positioned between the carriage members 52c, 52d. In some configurations, the cylinder of the hydraulic cylinder assembly is positioned between the carriage members 52c, 52d. The other carriage base 50a is similarly situated with respect to the other two carriage members 52a, 52b. In some configurations, the carriage members can be directly connected to the respective cylinders. [0049] The carriage bases 50a, 50b and the attached lifting carriage members 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d can move axially along the cylinder assembly or along with a portion of the cylinder assembly such that the pair of carriage members 52a, 52b and 52c, 52d can move up and down relative to the respective posts 30a, 30b of each of the lifting columns 22a, 22b. In the illustrated configuration, the lifting carriage members move upward and downward along the slots when lifting or lowering a vehicle.

[0050] Mounted on each lifting carriage member 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d is a corresponding extension arm 54a, 54b, 54c, 54d. The extension arms 54a, 54b, 54c, 54d extend away from the associated carriage member 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d. In some configurations, the extension arms extend generally towards the opposing column 22a, 22b on the opposite side of the lift 20. The extension arms 54a, 54b, 54c, 54d may be angularly adjustable relative to the lifting columns 22a, 22b by rotation about clevis pins 56a, 56b, 56c, 56d, which are used to secure the illustrated extension arms 54a, 54b, 54c, 54d to the carriage members 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d. Other manners of connecting the extension arms 54a, 54b, 54c, 54d to the carriage members 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d also can be used. The extension arms may be easily removed from the hydraulic lift for storage by removing the clevis pins and disconnecting the extension arms from the lifting carriage members. In some configurations, restraint members may be provided to selectively lock the extension arms 54a, 54b, 54c, 54d in a fixed angular position while the lift 20 is in use.

[0051] Each extension arm 54a, 54b, 54c, 54d can be configured to engage an undercarriage of a vehicle (not shown) in order to support the vehicle above the ground. In the illustrated configuration, because the carriages 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d extend laterally outward from the associated post and are connected to the extension arms 54a, 54b, 54c, 54d that support the vehicle, the carriages 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d preferably are not placed on the side of the columns 22a, 22b that will be furthest away from the vehicle. As such, the carriages also will not be placed on the side of the columns 22a, 22b that will be closest to the vehicle. The illustrated placement, therefore, results in improved clearance between the lift 20 and the vehicles that will be raised by the lift 20.

[0052] Figures 2A, 2B, and 2C illustrate that two of the extension arms 54a, 54b are located on opposite sides of the post 30a. Similarly, the other two of the extension arms 54c, 54d are located on opposite sides of the second post 30b. This arrangement results in an improved balancing of the torques applied to the hydraulic cylinder when the lift is in use. In a traditional hydraulic lift having a single lifting carriage attached to a hydraulic cylinder, a significant force is applied to one side of the hydraulic cylinder. This out-of-balance situation is not desired but simply has been accepted within the industry. By attaching the two paired carriage members 52a, 52b and 52c, 52d to opposite sides of the respective hydraulic cylinders, the resulting torques on the cylinder from lifting a vehicle may be more evenly balanced. This may result in greater durability of the hydraulic cylinder and may result in reduced sizing of some of the components, thereby reducing weight and cost.

[0053] Figure 3 illustrates that the extension arm 54c may be extended with an extension section 60c that telescopically extends from a distal end of the extension arm 54c. Similar telescopic extensions may also be located on extension arms 54a, 54b, and 54d. The extension arms 54a, 54b, 54c, 54d and the telescopic extensions may be made from rectangular tubing, with the telescoping section having a smaller cross-section such that it may be slidably received within the extension arm 54a, 54b, 54c, 54d.

[0054] Another embodiment of a stationary vehicle lift 120 is shown in Figure 6. As discussed above with respect to Figures 1-5, the lift 120 includes two lifting columns: a first lifting column 122a and a second lifting column 122b. The lifting columns 122a, 122b can extend generally vertically.

[0055] In some configurations, the columns 122a, 122b can extend upwardly from respective column bases 124a, 124b. The column bases 124a, 124b can be adapted to be bolted or otherwise secured to a ground surface, such as a concrete slab or the like, when the lift 120 is in use. In some configurations, however, the column bases 124a, 124b may not be secured to the ground.

[0056] In some configurations, the two lifting columns 122a, 122b may be interconnected by an upper support assembly 126. The upper support assembly 126 can support cables or the like that extend between the two columns 122a, 122b. Pulleys and other tightening mechanisms (not shown) may be used to retain tension within the upper support members 126 and provide structural integrity to the lift 120. The upper support assembly 126 can be secured to the two lifting columns 122a, 122b in any suitable manner. In the illustrated configurations, the upper support assembly 126 is attached using threaded fasteners or the like.

[0057] In some configurations, the lifting columns 122a, 122b can be configured to extend generally parallel with each other in a symmetrical arrangement. In some configurations, the columns 122a, 122b can be configured in an asymmetrical arrangement. In some configurations, the lifting columns 122a, 122b can be configured in an asymmetrical arrangement and can be oriented such that the lifting columns are diagonally offset from each other. For example, in such an arrangement, the lifting columns 122a, 122b can be arranged along a generally vertical plane that intersects in a non-perpendicular manner a generally vertical longitudinal plane that would generally bisect a supported vehicle when the lift 120 is in use.

[0058] In some configurations, such as the configuration shown in Figure 7, the columns 122a, 122b include two opposing faces that are neither parallel nor perpendicular to the generally vertical longitudinal plane that would generally bisect the vehicle when the lift 120 is in use. In some configurations, the columns 122a, 122b are rotated relative to each other. In the illustrated configuration, the columns 122a, 122b are rotated about 30 degrees from each other relative to a position that generally faces the load center of the vehicle. Nevertheless, in the illustrated configuration, the upper support assembly 126 would extend generally normal to the generally vertical longitudinal plane that would generally bisect the vehicle when the lift is in use.

[0059] In the illustrated configuration, a bracket 160 (shown in Figure 8) may be used at the top of each column 122a, 122b (shown as 160a, 160b in Figure 7) to connect the upper support assembly 126 to the columns 122a, 122b. The bracket can be configured to facilitate connection of the columns 122a, 122b at more than one rotational orientation relative to the upper support assembly 126. In some configurations, the bracket 160 can be provided with a plurality of holes 162 or other attachment features that provide a plurality of possible rotational orientations of the columns 122a, 122b relative to the upper support assembly 126. In other words, the upper support assembly 126 can be provided with either holes or studs that align with a first set of corresponding holes of the plurality of holes 162 in a first orientation and that align with a second set of corresponding holes of the plurality of holes 162 in a second orientation of the columns 122a, 122b relative to the upper support assembly 126. As will be apparent, the fastening components used to secure the upper support assembly 126 to the bracket 160 can have any suitable configuration, including but not limited to holes, slots, openings or the like and pins, bolts, threaded members, or the like.

[0060] The bracket 160 can have any suitable configuration. With reference to Figure 8, the illustrated bracket 160 comprises a U-shaped surface 164 and a connecting surface 166. The U-shaped surface 164 extends in a generally vertical direction and can include a pair of generally parallel legs that are connected by a bight region. In other words, the U-shaped surface 164 resembles a U when viewed from the top. The connecting surface 166 comprises a flange that extends generally horizontally. The flange can extend away from the bight region of the U shape. In some configurations, the connecting surface 166 extends generally perpendicular to the U-shaped surface 164. In the illustrated configuration, the connecting surface 166 has a smaller cross dimension than the length of the bight region of the U-shaped surface 164. In the illustrated configuration, the connecting surface 166 comprises an irregular pentagon with two parallel sides each perpendicular to a base that connects to the U-shaped surface 164. The illustrated shape advantageously facilitates alignment and securement of the upper support assembly 126 to the columns 122a, 122b.

[0061] When connected to the top of posts 130a, 130b the connecting surface 166 protrudes outward over a side of the columns 130a, 130b. In the illustrated configuration, the connecting surface 166 extends outward from the column at a position generally between two generally vertical planes defined along the two sides containing the slots 136, 140, 142, 144. In some configurations, the bracket 160 can be recessed into the top of the associated column 122a, 122b. By recessing the bracket 160 into the column 122a, 122b, the overall height of the assembly can be reduced while maintaining a desired height for the overall assembly. Moreover, by extending the connecting surface 166 outward from the associated column 122a, 122b, the connecting surface 166 can be joined to the upper support assembly 126 in a plurality of orientations without a upper portion of the columns 122a, 122b interfering with the ends of the upper support assembly 126.

[0062] A pattern of holes can be formed in the connecting surface 166 such that the upper support assembly 126 may be coupled to each of the posts 130a, 130b in a plurality of orientations. In some configurations, the bracket 160 can have a single set of holes while the upper support assembly includes a plurality of sets of holes that facilitate connection in two or more orientations. In some configurations, the columns and the upper support can be connected in two different rotational orientations such that the overall assembly can assume either a symmetrical or an asymmetrical configuration. Desirably, the upper support assembly 126 may be coupled to the posts 130a, 130b such that the columns 122a, 122b are oriented such that the two opposing faces are neither parallel nor perpendicular to the generally vertical longitudinal plane that would generally bisect the vehicle when the lift 120 is in use. Preferably, in some configurations, the upper support assembly 126 when installed remains generally perpendicular to the generally vertical longitudinal plane that would generally bisect the vehicle when the lift 120 is in use even when the two opposing faces of the columns 122a, 122b are not parallel or perpendicular to the longitudinal vehicle bisecting plane. An upper support member 126 is shown in phantom in Figures 7 and 9.

[0063] Figure 10 and 11 illustrate two configurations of the lift 120 arranged to accommodate vehicles of different widths. In some configurations, as shown in Figures 1, 9, 10, and 11, the upper support member 126 is extendable (e.g., telescoping). In some configurations, the length of the upper support member 126 can vary such that the distance D between the surfaces of the column bases 124a, 124b furthest away from a vehicle when the lift is in use is between about 3.329 meters and 3.688 meters. By varying the distance D, the throat defined between the columns 122a, 122b can be enlarged or reduced such that a single assembly of components can be used to provide a wide lift or a narrow lift to accommodate installations in narrower bays or wider bays and to accommodate smaller or larger vehicles. While the lift generally will be configured once for installation and not changed once installed, the ability to telescope advantageously reduces the inventory required to be maintained by a supplier or installer. When combined with the mounting plate described above, a single kit of components can be used to provide at least up to four different styles of lifts: wide-symmetrical; narrow-symmetrical; wide asymmetrical; narrow asymmetrical.

[0064] As discussed above and shown in Figure 12A, in the illustrated configuration, each lifting column can include a pair of lifting carriage members. With reference to Figure 12 A, the lifting column 122a includes a pair of lifting carriage members 152a, 152b. The lifting column 122a generally is interposed between the pair of lifting carriage members 152a, 152b. Thus, in the illustrated configuration, the lifting carriage members 152a, 152b are positioned such that the lifting carriage members 152a, 152b are located on opposing sides of the associated post 130a. In other words, each pair of the lifting carriage members, such as the lifting carriage members 152a, 152b, can be positioned such that the two paired lifting carriages (152a, 152b) are separated by about 180 degrees from each other. Such a configuration dramatically increases the throat dimension without increasing the footprint of the lift assembly or such a configuration allows that throat dimension to remain the same as prior lift designs while shrinking the footprint because the illustrated configuration removes the lifting carriage (and any associated reinforcement) from the throat region of the lift.

[0065] As discussed above and with reference to Figure 6, a carriage base 150a, 150b can be positioned within each of the respective posts 130a, 130b. With reference to Figure 12A, one carriage base 150a is illustrated. The carriage base 150a, in some configurations, can be a vertical length of square tubing that is sized to allow the carriage bases 150a, 150b to travel within the posts 130a, 130b. Any other suitable configuration can be used. The carriage bases 150a, 150b can be used to connect respective carriage members 152a, 152b, 152c, 152d to the lifting mechanisms.

[0066] As shown in Figures 12A-B, the carriage base 150a is shown with two carriage members 152a, 152b attached. The carriage members 152a, 152b may be similar to the carriage members 52a, 52b shown in Figures 1-6. As shown in Figures 12B and 14A, the carriage base 150 may be tube configured with an attachment region 180 to attach the carriage members 152a, 152b to the carriage base 150. The attachment region 180 shown in Figure 12A includes aligned openings to receive a pin that may be passed through corresponding components in the carriage member 152a, 152b. In the configuration illustrated in Figures 14A-14D, the attachment region 180 can comprise two or more axially aligned tubular components 181 for each side of the carriage base 150 that will support the carriage members 152a, 152b.

[0067] The carriage members 152a, 152b may be attached to the carriage base 150 by pins, welds, or other mechanical fasteners, for example but without limitation. In some configurations, the carriage members 152a, 152b are attached to opposing sides of the columns. Preferably, the carriage members 152a, 152b are attached to opposing sides of the carriage base 150, as discussed above. In the configuration of Figure 12C, the carriage member 152a is shown with tubular members 183 that include openings 185. The openings 185 can include a generally vertical centerline. The tubular members 183 can be received within sockets 187. With the tubular members 183 inserted into the sockets 187, the openings 185 can generally align with the tubular components 181 such that a pin can be used to secure the tubular members 183 within the sockets. The tubular members 183 define an enlarged vertical element that is received within the sockets 187 and this vertical element helps solidify the connection between the carriage members 152a, 152b and the carriage base 150. Figure 12D illustrates a carriage member that uses flanges 189 instead of the tubular components 183; however, the tubular components 183 provide an improved coupling between the carriage members 152a, 152b and the carriage base 150.

[0068] In some configurations, including the illustrated configuration shown in Figure 12A-D, the carriage member 152a includes a detent mechanism. The detent mechanism preferably allows the extension arm 154 to be adjusted in predetermined rotational increments relative to the carriage member 152a, 152b such that the angular orientation defined between the extension arms and the associated post may be altered. The detent mechanism includes a notched portion 170, a pin 174 and a spring 172. While one detent mechanism is shown on the carriage member 152a, similar detent mechanisms may be included on each of the carriage members 152a, 152b, 152c, and 152d. As shown in Figure 13, the corresponding notched wheel 176 mates with the notched portion 170 of the detent mechanism to allow the extension arms 154 to be adjusted in predetermined increments. In some configurations, the pin 174 may be moved upwards to release the notched portion 170 from the mating notched wheel 176. Decoupling the notched portion 170 and the notched wheel 176 allows the extension arm 154 to be rotated freely about the pin connection between the extension arm 154 and the carriage member 152. Once the extension arm 154 has been rotated to the desired position, the pin 174 can be released and the notched portion 170 mates with the notched wheel 176, securing the extension arm 154 at the desired position. In the illustrated configuration, the pin 174 can be biased by a biasing member, such as a compression spring, for example but without limitation. The illustrated configuration also includes a pull ring or the like to enable the pin 174 to be moved or held in position against the force of the biasing member. Furthermore, in the illustrated configuration, the pin 174 extends through an opening in the bottom of the biasing member when the pin 174 is biased downward by the biasing member. Accordingly, when the extension arm 154 and the carriage member 152a, 152b is fully lowered, the lower end of the pin 174 can contact the floor, ground or other supporting surface and push the notched portion 170 out of engagement with the notched wheel 176. Accordingly, the pin 174 preferably protrudes from the bottom of the carriage member 152a, 152b by a length sufficient to allow the notched portion 170 to fully disengage from the notched wheel 176 (e.g., the pin protrudes by at least the thickness of the notched wheel 176).

[0069] As shown in Figure 6, the carriage bases 150a, 150b and the attached lifting carriage members 152a, 152b, 152c, 152d can move axially along the cylinder assembly or along with a portion of the cylinder assembly such that the pair of carriage members 152a, 152b and 152c, 152d can move up and down relative to the respective posts 130a, 130b of each of the lifting columns 122a, 122b. In the illustrated configuration, the lifting carriage members move upward and downward along a path defined within or by the slots when lifting or lowering a vehicle.

[0070] Additionally, as discussed above, the extension arms 154a, 154b, 154c, 154d can extend to different lengths such that the lift 120 can accommodate vehicles of different sizes and different lifting points. Figures 7, 9, 10, and 11 illustrate the extension arms 154a, 154b, 154c, 154d extended to different lengths and in different configurations. In some configurations, the extension arms are configured to be triple-telescoping (e.g., formed in three nested pieces). Other configurations also are possible.

[0071] In some configurations, one aspect of the present invention involves a method of assembling a two post automotive lift from a kit of components including a first column, a second column and an adjustable upper support assembly. The method involves determining a desired throat opening (i.e., a lateral spacing between inner surfaces of the two columns). The method also involves selecting either a symmetric or rotated asymmetric configuration for the lift. The method further involves adjusting a length of the upper support assembly based upon the desired throat opening and the selected configuration. In some configurations, the method involves securing the upper support assembly to the first and second columns. In some configurations, the method involves securing the upper support assembly to the first and second columns with the columns having been rotated to a desired rotational orientation. In some configurations, the method involves selecting between a first subset of mounting holes and a second subset of mounting holes for each connection between the upper support assembly and each of the first and second columns and then securing the upper support assembly to the first and second columns using the selected subsets of mounting holes. In some configurations, the method involves securing a first mounting plate on the first column and a second mounting plate on the second column to the upper support assembly. In some configurations, the method involves selecting a first subset of holes on the first mounting plate, which first subset of holes corresponds to the selected lift configuration and selecting a second subset of holes on the second mounting plate, which second subset of holes corresponds to the selected lift configuration and then using the first and second subsets to secure the upper support assembly to the first and second columns.

[0072] Although the present invention has been disclosed in the context of certain preferred embodiments, examples and variations, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. For example, in the event of serial production requirements all of the system components can be redesigned/combined etc. for cost effective results. In addition, while a number of variations of the invention have been shown and described in detail, other modifications, which are within the scope of this invention, will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art based upon this disclosure. It is specifically contemplated that various combinations or subcombinations of the specific features and aspects of the embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the invention. It should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of the disclosed invention. Moreover, some variations that have been described with respect to one embodiment and not another embodiment can be used with such other embodiments. Many other variations also have been described herein and cross-application is intended where physically possible. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present invention herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above, but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A stationary vehicle lift, comprising:

a pair of lifting columns, each lifting column including a column base, a post extending upwardly from the column base, two lifting carriage members moveably mounted on opposing sides of the post, and an actuator connected to the lifting carriage members for movement of the lifting carriage members along the post, each lifting carriage member having an extension arm extending outwardly therefrom.

2. The lift of Claim 1 , wherein the extension arms are rotatably connected to the lifting carriage members with clevis members.

3. The lift of Claim 2, wherein the extension arms may be selectively secured in an angular position with respect to the lifting columns.

4. The lift of Claim 2, wherein each extension arm further comprises a telescoping section such that each telescoping section extends the length of each extension arm.

5. The lift of Claim 2 further comprising an upper support member connecting the two columns of the lift.

6. The lift of Claim 5, wherein the upper support member is extendable.

7. The lift of Claim 12, wherein the pair of lifting columns may be selectively secured in an angular position with respect to the upper support member.

8. A two-column stationary vehicle lift, each lifting column comprising:

a column base;

a post extending upwardly from the base, the post having a rectangular cross- section comprising a rear wall, a front wall, and opposing side walls connecting the front and rear walls, a first axially-extending slot disposed in the front wall, and a second axially-extending slot disposed in the rear wall; a lifting mechanism positioned within the post;

a first lifting carriage member connected to the lifting mechanism through the first slot, a first extension arm pivotally connected to and extending outward from the first lifting carriage member, the extension arm being adjustable in length; and

a second lifting carriage member connected to the lifting mechanism through the second slot, a second extension arm pivotally connected to and extending outward from the second lifting carriage member, the extension arm being adjustable in length.

9. The lift of Claim 8, wherein the first and second extension arms are rotatably connected to the lifting carriages with first and second clevis members, respectively.

10. The lift of Claim 9, wherein the first and second extension arms may be selectively secured in an angular position with respect to the lifting columns.

11. The lift of Claim 9, wherein the first extension arm further comprises a first telescoping section and the second extension arm further comprises a second telescoping section such that each telescoping section extends the length of each extension arm.

12. The lift of Claim 9 further comprising an upper support member connecting the two columns of the hydraulic lift.

13. The lift of Claim 12, wherein the upper support member is extendable.

14. The lift of Claim 12, wherein the two lifting columns may be selectively secured in an angular position with respect to the upper support member.

15. A method of assembling a two post automotive lift from a kit of components including a first column, a second column and an adjustable upper support assembly, comprising:

determining a desired a lateral spacing between inner surfaces of the two columns; and

selecting either a symmetric or rotated asymmetric configuration for the lift.

16. The method of Claim 15 further comprising adjusting a length of the upper support assembly based upon the desired lateral spacing and the selected configuration.

17. The method of Claim 15 further comprising securing the upper support assembly to the first and second columns.

18. The method of Claim 17 wherein securing the upper support assembly further comprises securing the upper support assembly to the first and second columns with the columns having been rotated to a desired rotational orientation.

19. The method of Claim 18 wherein securing the upper support assembly to the first and second columns further comprises selecting between a first subset of mounting holes and a second subset of mounting holes for each connection between the upper support assembly and each of the first and second columns and then securing the upper support assembly to the first and second columns using the selected subsets of mounting holes.

20. The method of Claim 18, further comprising securing a first mounting plate on the first column and a second mounting plate on the second column to the upper support assembly.

21. The method of Claim 20, further comprising selecting a first subset of holes on the first mounting plate, which first subset of holes corresponds to the selected lift configuration and selecting a second subset of holes on the second mounting plate, which second subset of holes corresponds to the selected lift configuration and then using the first and second subsets to secure the upper support assembly to the first and second columns.