초록 ▼

The present invention pertains to a mobile cart. In a specific embodiment, the subject cart can be automatically loaded onto and from a raised platform. In a specific embodiment, the subject cart can be utilized as a catering cart for transporting and serving food and beverages. The subject cart can

The present invention pertains to a mobile cart. In a specific embodiment, the subject cart can be automatically loaded onto and from a raised platform. In a specific embodiment, the subject cart can be utilized as a catering cart for transporting and serving food and beverages. The subject cart can utilize thermoelectric devices for heating and cooling of food stored in, and served from, the cart. Lift mechanisms can allow the caterer to raise and lower the food cart, which can assist in loading and unloading the subject cart from a transport vehicle. The subject cart can also provide storage areas for foods, beverages, and utensils. Advantageously,the subject invention can allow a caterer to (i) load the subject cart with hot and cold food; (ii) load the cart into a transport vehicle; (iii) transport the cart to the customer's site; (iv) unload the cart from the transport vehicle; (v) quickly and easily transport the cart, containing hot and cold food, to the serving location; (vi) serve the customers; and (vii) quickly load the cart back into the transport vehicle and return to the caterer's base of operation. A power source, for example batteries, may be utilized to supply the power needed for heating and cooling and for self-propulsion, if desired.

대표청구항 ▼

1. A mobile cart, comprising:a housing; a means for raising and lowering said housing; a means for moving said cart on a ground surface, and a means for self-loading said cart onto and self-unloading said cart from a raised platform, wherein said means for raising and lowering said housing comprises

1. A mobile cart, comprising:a housing; a means for raising and lowering said housing; a means for moving said cart on a ground surface, and a means for self-loading said cart onto and self-unloading said cart from a raised platform, wherein said means for raising and lowering said housing comprises at least one extendable support structure which is adapted to extend and retract from said housing such that when one of said at least one extendable support structure extends from said housing said one of said at least one extendable support structure first contacts the ground and then raises a portion of said housing, wherein said means for self-loading said cart onto and self-unloading, said cart from the raised platform comprises at least one front lift arm attached to said housing, wherein said front lift arm is adapted to contact the raised platform and lift a front end of said cart housing and move said cart toward the raised platform until a portion of the cart housing is above the raised platform, wherein a distal end of said at least one front lift arm having a means for engaging a pin secured to the raised platform wherein when said at least one front lift arm engages the pin secured to the raised platform, the pin secured to the raised platform provides a basis for said at least one lift arm to raise said cart housing and move said cart toward the raised platform.