Abstract: A disclosed gripping system for lifting planar objects comprises a back plate, center sliding plate, lifting pin assembly and cam plate in pivotal connection. Slabs of granite, concrete, marble and other dense planar objects may be safely lifted, moved and lowered, with automatic locking and unlocking of the planar object occurring in response to either the gripping system being lowered upon the planar object, or the planar object being deposited upon the ground.

Abstract: A lifting device suited for use in lifting and handling heavy slabs, sheets of material, or panels generally includes a frame comprising side-plates, the upper ends of which are rigidly secured together by cross-members. The lower portion of one side-plate is angled downwardly and away from the other side-plate. A carriage is arranged between the lower portion of the one side-plate and a movable jaw for vertical movement with respect to the frame. The movable jaw is mounted for horizontal sliding movement on the cross-members between the side-plates. The carriage is suspended from a tension-member, which is guided for vertical movement by the cross-members and has its upper end secured to (or formed as) a lifting lug. When the lifting device is placed over, for example, a slab to be lifted, the carriage is raised by lifting the tension-member, and the slab is clamped sufficiently tightly to be lifted.