The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Jan. 23, 2001
Filed:
Sep. 25, 1998
John P. Moyna, Elkader, IA (US);
Peter F. Prillinger, Dunlap, IL (US);
Christopher Smith, Sunderland, GB;
David A. Young, Sunderland, GB;
Caterpillar Inc., Peoria, IL (US);
Abstract
A work machine having a receptacle adapted to receive and carry loads is disclosed. The receptacle has a first lateral sidewall, a second lateral sidewall spaced apart from the first lateral sidewall, and a floor extending between the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall. The work machine further includes a tailgate which extends transversely from the first sidewall to the second sidewall, the tailgate being pivotable between a closed position which prevents loads from exiting a rear portion of the receptacle, and an open position which allows loads to exit the rear portion of the receptacle. The work machine yet further includes a cylinder movable between a first rod position and a second rod position and a linkage. The linkage of the tailgate in the closed position when the cylinder is located in the first rod position, and positions the tailgate in the open position when the cylinder is located in the second rod position. The linkage includes a lever having a first lever end, a second lever end, and a fulcrum positioned between the first lever end and the second lever end. The lever is pivotally coupled to the first lateral sidewall. The first lever end is coupled to the tailgate. The second lever end is coupled to the cylinder.