Abstract: The aerial work platform including a pothole and/or obstacle avoidance system according to the present invention includes a non-contact distance measuring device mounted to an end of the aerial work platform chassis. The non-contact distance measuring device measures a distance to the ground along a predetermined angle, and generates a first signal based on the measured distance. In response to the output of the non-contact distance measuring device, a motor controller and/or brake controller of the aerial work platform control operation of a motor and/or brakes, respectively, to assist an operator of the aerial work platform in avoiding potholes and/or obstacles.

Abstract: An adjustable cable pulling apparatus and method for pulling cable through interior compartments of a marine vessel. The apparatus consists of a motor, a pair of rollers and a plurality of drive gears that transfer the driving force of the motor to at least one of the rollers for pulling cable therebetween. The cable is manually threaded through the rollers of the apparatus and then can operate automatically once the apparatus is energized. The apparatus is portable and can be mounted various cable pulling configurations. Additionally, the apparatus is adjustable to accept various sized cables which can be pulled at various speeds. Furthermore, the clamping force of the rollers can be adjusted to incrementally increase or decrease the frictional forces between the cable and the rollers.

Abstract: A detection apparatus and method reliably determine the position of a hydraulically actuated telescoping boom. The detection system is built right into the hydraulic piston apparatus which is used to extend and retract the telescoping boom. A pair of flow meters is used to measure the flow rate into and out of the hydraulic cylinder. In some cases, only a single flow meter at either the inlet or outlet may be used. The measured flow signals are input into a processor which determines piston position and boom position.

Abstract: In the anti-two block device, a non-contact measuring device detects in one form or another the distance between a boom nose and a load-bearing member supported thereby. If the distance detected is less than a predetermined threshold value, the device triggers a warning or other operation to assist an operator in preventing anti-two blocking.

Abstract: The protection system for outriggers of a chassis includes a non-contact distance measuring device, associated with at least one of the outriggers and the chassis, mounted on one of the outriggers and the chassis. The non-contact distance measuring device measures the distance to the ground along a predetermined angle, and generates a warning signal based on the measured distance. A controller stops operation of the outriggers in response to the warning signal.