Abstract: The present disclosure relates to laminated hook including a fastening system. The hook is formed by a plurality of plates laminated together with a mechanical fastening system. The fastening system utilized to laminate the plates together to form the laminated hook includes a bolt and a nut. According to certain aspects of the present teaching, the nut is a barrel nut. According to further aspects of the present teaching, the hook is a laminated ladle hook. A process for forming a laminated hook is also provided.

Abstract: A draft survey apparatus for gauging a barge by determining a weight of bulk materials loaded and discharged from the barge in water wherein the water level is provided. The draft survey apparatus includes a light source for emitting photons radially outward from the light source, a receiver for receiving the photons reflected off of the barge and surface, the receiver operable to sense a return angle of the photons, and a processor operable to determine a position of the objects and surfaces in three dimensional space based on the return angle of the photons and a time delay of photons between emission and receipt. The processor is operable to determine the weight of the bulk materials on the barge based on a height of barge above the water level.

Abstract: An apparatus for lifting and manipulating a heavy load by way of at least one pair of tongs and at least one hydraulic cylinder is disclosed. The load lifting apparatus may be configured such that it includes a first linkage, consisting of two pivotal linkage members, and a second linkage, having two pivotal linkage members. The load lifting apparatus may further have a set of tongs which includes two tong arms, and a hydraulic cylinder capable of actuating about one of the pivot points of the linkages. This configuration allows for the distance between the two tong arms to be adjusted according to the relative size of the load being engaged by the load lifting apparatus. A controller may actuate the hydraulic cylinder to adjust the distance between the tong arms.

Abstract: Provided is an apparatus for preparing wire rope having a stand; a first cross-member; a second cross-member; a first clamp arm; a second clamp arm; a first clamp; a second clamp; an adjustment wheel; an adjustment screw; and an adjustment gear; wherein the second cross-member is at least partially contained within the first cross-member; wherein the first clamp is disposed at the distal end of the first clamp arm, the second clamp is disposed at the distal end of the second clamp arm, and wherein the first and second clamp arm are spaced from each other; and wherein the distance between the first and second clamp arm is adjustable. Also provided is a method of use for the same.

Abstract: Provided is a safety lighting system for an overhead crane comprising a laser generator capable of generating a laser signal; and a crane control system having a programmable logic circuit; wherein the laser generator is integrated with the crane control system; and wherein the laser generator is operable to project a laser signal onto a surface corresponding to the position of the crane or crane components and a method of using the safety lighting system to determine when an object has crossed into a designated safety zone.