FLUID-OPERATED, LOAD-HANDLING APPARATUS

摘要

A fluid-operated, load-handling apparatus is provided for handling loads of various weights. The apparatus includes a fluid-operated hoist with an elongate member extending downwardly to a load-carrying unit. A pilot fluid-controlled regulator supplies fluid to the hoist and a load-responsive, pilot fluid regulator is carried by the load-carrying unit and supplies pilot fluid to the pilot fluid-controlled regulator. The pilot fluid is varied according to the weight of a load, being higher for heavier loads and lower for lighter loads so that the pressure of the fluid supplied to the hoist is accordingly varied by the pilot fluid-controlled regulator to automatically balance the load carried by the load-carrying unit. The apparatus also can include a brake for preventing the alongate member from moving up or down while loads are being changed or are at rest.