Story Behind the Invention
Inventor Roger L. Hendricks a laborer from Carey, OH has created an apparatus that allows for the rapid hitching and unhitching of a tote or trailer pulled or pushed by a standard forklift. The invention allows the operator of the forklift to remotely engage and disengage the hitch pin from the connection device of the towed vehicle without dismounting the forklift.
The common forklift is used to transport multiple small objects, bulky objects, and even heavy objects weighing several tons with ease. Although not one of its intended uses, it is often seen moving trailers or totes short distances, or jockeying them into tight locations. In such instances, these trailers or totes are secured to the top of the fork by use of a drop in pin. However, this means that the operator of the forklift must dismount the vehicle every time a trailer or tote is hitched or unhitched. This translates into much lost time over the course of a day, and also subjects the operator to safety concerns such as slips and falls. Inventor Hendricks has created a means by which trailers and totes can be easily hitched and unhitched to a forklift without issue.
This clever new invention allows a user to stay seated on a forklift. This results in higher productivity and profits. It also improves safety. The invention is for use anywhere forklifts and trailers are used together. It adapts for use on almost any type of forklift. The use of the Remote Hitch Pin Actuator allows for movement of trailers via a forklift in a manner which is quick, easy, and effective.
