Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing single and multi-core lifting slings, the method comprising: aligning a plurality of core fibers to form a sling body; applying a coating along length of the sling body, wherein an initial layer of the coating seals the plurality of core fibers from exposure to contaminates; and applying additional layers of the coating in areas of the sling body subject to high crush and shear forces. Other exemplary embodiments include tensioning the plurality of core fibers and forming a multi-core lifting sling by applying a seaming coat of the coating material to the sling body and at least to one of a second sling body. In an exemplary embodiment, the coating can be at least an isocyanate mixed with an amine forming polyurea.

Abstract: The present invention relates to coating of lifting slings with a polyurea elastomer, polyurethane, or hybrid polyurethane-polyurea elastomer. In addition, optionally the coating material can include one or more additives such as a catalyst, stabilizer, pigment, fire retardant, or other additives. In the present invention use of additives can enhance the lifting slings effectiveness and improve the operational condition and or suitability for use of the lifting sling. The present invention also relates to the ability to form a multi-core sling from a plurality of single cores. More specifically, the single cores can be tenaciously bonded together with the coating material to form a multi-core lifting sling. The present invention also relates to embedding a safety core along the length of the lifting sling core. The safety core allows monitoring of certain operational parameters related to the lifting sling by way of an indicator and or electronic system.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a lifting sling that is adapted to monitor cargo. The lifting sling can include core materials, and a control system. The control system can effectuate the ability to monitor certain lifting sling operational parameters. The control system can be an electronic system and or an indicator. The electronic system can effectuate data acquisition, data processing, and or data communication of a plurality of operational parameters related to the lifting sling and or cargo. By monitoring certain operational parameters, methods of determining the operational condition, suitably for use of the lifting sling, and or monitoring of the cargo, can be effectuated. Once the lifting sling is secured in combination with the cargo certain operational parameters vary in response to the lifting sling being in contact/proximity with the cargo (i.e. tension). Variations in operational parameters can be utilized to make certain determinations related to the cargo.