Abstract: A step stool includes a step frame including a plurality of legs and a handrail coupled to the step frame. The step frame is foldable so as to assume a flat profile for storage. The handrail is mounted on the step frame and is movable relative to the step frame. The handrail provides support for a user standing on the step frame.

Abstract: A telescoping safety hand rail and beam for step ladders. The invention consists of two upright telescopic rails and a telescopic horizontal beam and tray. The tray includes a container, various pass-through openings for holding tools, a paint can hook and a pass through orifice to accept the horizontal beams to allow telescopic movement. The inner rails extend upwards from the fixed outer rails and latch in place at the top and middle of the telescoping travel range. This advantageously allows the utilization of all steps of a ladder by providing a supplemental knee brace and eliminates the dangerous opportunity to stand unbraced on any step of a ladder. The invention is mounted to a step ladder with strategically placed brackets and double sided mounting tape.

Abstract: A safety accessory for stabilizing a user on a step ladder is provided. The safety accessory includes an elongate member having a shaft and at least one handle portion extending perpendicularly to the shaft and structured to be gripped by the user, the handle portion having a strap ring; a harness configured to removeably couple to the strap ring of the handle portion, the harness being structured to cradle and urge the user toward the center of gravity of the step ladder when the user stands on at least one of the plurality of steps of the step ladder; and a clamp configured to removeably attach to a selected location on the side rail of the step ladder, the clamp having a receptacle structured to slideably receive the shaft of the elongate member and a positioning structure configured to maintain the shaft of the elongate member into a selected one of a plurality of longitudinal positions with respect to the clamp.

Abstract: A telescopic positioning structure used for a ladder is disclosed. The ladder includes a front supporting leg and a rear supporting leg. The front supporting leg includes a first tube and a second tube, and the first tube and the second tube are able to move relative to each other in an extension direction. The rear supporting leg is rotatably connected with the first tube. The ladder further includes a pin connected with the first tube. When the rear supporting leg is unfolded, an upper end of the rear supporting leg abuts against the pin and drives to the pin to move towards the second tube, and when the pin abuts against the second tube, the second tube is positioned.

Abstract: A system is provided for safe access to a roof through an opening in a roof of a structure having a fixed ladder leading upward to the opening. The system includes a mechanism to drive a set of pushrods to raise a hatch covering the opening. The system may include a section of ladder secured to the underside of the hatch. The system may have an extendable ladder driven by the drive mechanism to slide along the fixed ladder and extend through the opening in the roof when the hatch is raised. The system may include a safety pole driven by the drive mechanism to extend through the opening in the roof when the hatch is raised. The system allows someone who needs to access the roof for inspection or maintenance to safely open the hatch, climb up through the opening in the roof, and safely step onto the roof.

Abstract: A retro-fit installation modifies the existing pool ladder structure of an existing in-ground or above-ground swimming pool to support an underwater “swim out” platform structure. In some versions, the ladder rails of the existing pool ladder are used to support the underwater platform, while in others the existing pool ladder rails are replaced with new tubular platform rails specifically designed to support the underwater platform structure. Other versions are adapted for installations in a round pool or at a corner of a rectangular pool.

Abstract: A foldable stepladder in accordance with the present disclosure may be changed by a user from an expanded use mode to a collapsed storage mode. The foldable stepladder includes a handrail that moves to reduce the overall height of the stepladder when in the collapsed storage mode.

Abstract: A fire apparatus includes a chassis, axles coupled to the chassis, a turntable rotatably coupled to the chassis, and an aerial ladder assembly pivotably coupled the turntable and including a ladder section. The ladder section includes a first base rail and a second base rail extending longitudinally, a plurality of ladder rungs extending between the first base rail and the second base rail, a top plate positioned above the first base rail, a series of lacing members coupled to the top plate and the first base rail, and a gusset plate coupled to the top plate and at least one of the lacing members. The height of the gusset plate varies along the length such that a first portion has a first height and a second portion has a second height, wherein the first height is greater than the second height. The top plate has a solid cross section.

Abstract: There is provided a shoe tie-assisting device that allows a user to position themselves such that they can tie their own shoes. The shoe tie assisting device includes a frame assembly that includes support columns spaced to create a geometric space between them. The support columns are connected with support bars. The shoe tie-assisting device further includes a platform assembly positioned in the geometric space between the support columns. The platform assembly allows a user to place one of their feet thereon. The shoe tie-assisting device further includes a handle assembly having one or more components that the user can grasp. This component(s) are positioned at height that a user can grasp them from an upright position without having to bend over. Using the platform assembly and handle assembly, a user can position their body such that they can tie their own shoes.

Abstract: A ladder may include a first pair of spaced apart members, a second pair of spaced apart members and a first pair of hinges coupling the first pair of spaced apart members with the second pair of spaced apart members. In some embodiments, each hinge may include a first hinge component including at least a first hinge plate, the first hinge plate having a notch formed therein, the notch including a first abutment wall and a second abutment wall, a second hinge component including at least a second hinge plate, and a lock mechanism having a pivot pin and a lock pin. The lock mechanism is configured for selective engagement with the notch such that the pivot pin engages the first abutment wall and the lock pin engages the second abutment wall to lock the first hinge component relative to the second hinge component in a first hinge position.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a ladder adapted to service the engine of a tractor-trailer truck. The ladder comprises a set of rails having rungs extending between them. A set of rear rails is coupled to the set of rails. A pair of stability beams, terminating in ground contacting feet, extends rearward from the front rail and rear rails on each side of the ladder. A platform, extending rearward from between the set of rails, provides a planar surface allowing a mechanic access to the engine.

Abstract: An external ladder assembly for a nacelle of a wind turbine includes at least one ladder having parallel side legs and a plurality of rungs arranged between the parallel side legs. The ladder assembly also includes a ladder platform arranged with the ladder and configured for placement atop the nacelle. Further, the ladder assembly includes a mounting assembly for affixing the ladder platform atop the nacelle. More specifically, the mounting assembly is adjustable between multiple positions so as to level the ladder platform atop the nacelle. Thus, the ladder assembly provides access to one or more uptower, external features of the wind turbine.

Abstract: A semi-cylindrical tubular component with grip component used to carry a ladder distributes the load supported by the user's hand. The ladder carrier device and process increase the contact area of the open longitudinal end or the flat u-channel, of the grip, with the ladder rung or side rails, resulting in a more evenly distributed load. The grip device can be used on both ladder rung and ladder leg supported with tension only, and accommodates hands of a plurality of human operators, and more than one user at a time. Additionally, the ladder may be carried either vertically or horizontally.

Abstract: A fire apparatus includes a chassis, axles coupled to the chassis, a turntable rotatably coupled to the chassis, and an aerial ladder assembly pivotably coupled the turntable and including a ladder section. The ladder section includes a first base rail and a second base rail extending longitudinally, a plurality of ladder rungs extending between the first base rail and the second base rail, a top plate positioned above the first base rail, a series of lacing members coupled to the top plate and the first base rail, and a gusset plate coupled to the top plate and at least one of the lacing members. The top plate extends at least one of (a) laterally inward of the gusset plate and (b) laterally outward of the gusset plate. The top plate has a solid cross section.

Abstract: A retro-fit installation modifies the existing pool ladder structure of an existing in-ground or above-ground swimming pool to support an underwater “swim out” platform structure. In some versions, the ladder rails of the existing pool ladder are used to support the underwater platform, while in others the existing pool ladder rails are replaced with new tubular platform rails specifically designed to support the underwater platform structure. Other versions are adapted for installations in a round pool or at a corner of a rectangular pool.

Abstract: The collapsible stepladder is a climbing structure that allows a person to increase their vertical elevation. The collapsible stepladder comprises a plurality of support stiles, a telescopic stile, a plurality of telescopic handrails, a plurality of steps, a plurality of detents, and a plurality of assembly hardware. The plurality of support stiles and the plurality of steps form the stepladder portion of the collapsible stepladder. The telescopic stile and the plurality of telescopic handrails are safety devices associated with the collapsible stepladder. The vertical height of both the plurality of telescopic handrails and the telescopic stile are adjustable such that safety grips are available at a vertical height appropriate for the elevation. The plurality of detents and the plurality of assembly hardware are used to assemble the collapsible stepladder.

Abstract: An apparatus for supporting an object at a window of a building comprises a first member, a second member, and a third member. The first member extends along at least a partial width of the window and abuts an interior surface of the building. The first member is configured to support the object by exerting an outward force on the interior surface of the building in response to a downward force exerted by the object. The first member also comprises at least two sections extending from the interior of the building to the exterior of the building. These sections may extend from the interior of the building to the exterior of the building about respective distal ends of the first member. The sum of the forces applied on the surfaces of the building are sufficient to secure the object to the building.

Abstract: A pitching target device having a frame that includes a base, a vertical support member connected to the base, and a horizontal support member connected to the vertical support member. Pivotally connected to each end of the horizontal support member are a pair of arm members. The arm members include a first section pivotally connected to a second section with target plates attached to the outer ends of each section.

Abstract: A vertically orientated ladder apparatus allowing a climber to adopt an improved climbing stance wherein the climber's arms are poised economically in front of the climber within the climbing passage; the climber's legs are spread for the lateral stability of the climber so as to reduce the tendency of the climber falling sideways; and the climber is substantially upright such that the climber's center of gravity lies substantially between the opposing steps (11) so as to allow the climber to release the climber's grip on the hand rails (14) while remaining balanced and supported by the legs of the climber. Opposing steps (11) are level or staggered. Embodiments include three or four stiles (12, 15).

Abstract: A stepladder includes a pipe/tube holder attached to the rear side for holding pipe and/or a strap bender attached to a rail or a rear rung through which a strap is inserted to be bent, and/or a utility hook attached to the rear side. A method for cutting a pipe. A method for using a tool. A method for bending a strap.

Abstract: This two pitch beam is for a bleacher support system in which the slope of its understructure is a combination of a shallow pitch section and a steep pitch section. The unique longitudinal support beam is used for both the shallow pitch and steep pitch sections.

Abstract: A roof mounted ladder safety bracket comprises a first plate, a second plate, a third plate, a first hinge and a second hinge. The first plate and the second plate are rotably coupled via the first hinge and the second plate and the third plate are rotably coupled via the second hinge. The first plate further comprises a plurality of arms extending therefrom, each of the plurality of arms comprises thereon at a distal end, a hook having an open end facing outward in a first direction and the open end of the hook is configured to be temporarily attached to a leg of a ladder. The third plate further comprises at least one opening configured to enable the ladder safety bracket to be temporarily coupled to a roof structure. The roof mounted ladder safety bracket secures to the ladder via the open end of the hook by using a locking mechanism and secures to the roof structure via the at least opening by nailing a nail through a portion of the at least one opening.

Abstract: A ladder knee rest comprising a padded frame with top and bottom lateral arms separated by a central support column. The frame can be hung in front of a ladder with a positioning strap, and the length of the positioning strap can be adjusted to move the frame vertically up or down the ladder. Securing straps extending from the lateral arms can be connected behind the ladder and tightened to prevent side-to-side movement. A user's knees can be placed between the padded top and bottom lateral arms to reduce pain and/or discomfort in the user's legs while the user works on the ladder.

Abstract: An adjustable platform system configured in or attached to a ladder having a moveable or adjustable platform assembly operatively coupled thereto. An adjustment mechanism is operatively connected to the first and second arm members and the platform member, whereby the platform member is selectively movable along a length of the ladder legs or the first and second arm members via the adjustment mechanism.

Abstract: A system includes a plurality of lifts configured to couple to a storage tank about the storage tank, a reservoir to store compressed air, and a manifold. Each lift includes a hoist, a coupling to extend between the hoist and a roof of the storage tank, an inlet conduit to be coupled to an inlet of the hoist, and an outlet conduit to be coupled to an outlet of the hoist. A pressure difference between the inlet of the hoist and the outlet of the hoist spools the hoist. The manifold fluidly couples the reservoir to each inlet conduit and fluidly couples each outlet conduit to an exhaust. The manifold includes a plurality of outlet valves, each coupled to one outlet conduit of the plurality of outlet conduits and configured to regulate flow between the outlets of the plurality of hoists and the exhaust.

Abstract: An overturn structure of a footstep of a folding ladder, includes a footstep is disposed between two legs, wherein further comprising two pivot elements and a reinforcing bar connecting between the two legs, the pivot elements are respectively connected to both ends of the reinforcing bar, the pivot elements are pivoted joint to the footstep to make the footstep overturn about the reinforcing bar to fold and unfold, when the footstep is unfolded, the reinforcing bar is supported on the bottom portion of the footstep. The pivot elements are connected to the reinforcing bar, the pivot elements are pivoted joint to the footstep, the footstep can rotate about the reinforcing bar to fold and unfold, so that the structure is stable, when the footstep is unfolded, the reinforcing bar is supported on the bottom portion of the footstep, it thus significantly improves the bearing performance of the footstep.

Abstract: A securement mechanism for a ladder tree stand includes jaws pivotably attachable to a platform. When open, a tree can pass between the jaws. A strap assembly attaches to the jaws. A tension can be applied to the strap assembly from the ground before climbing the tree to pivot the jaws to close around the tree. The strap assembly can be anchored to the tree so that the jaws are pulled closed against the tree. A respective end portion of the strap assembly can attach to each of the jaws between its pivot axis and free end. The strap assembly can include a pivot strap secured to the jaws and a tensioning strap connected to the tree and secured to the pivot strap to slide along its length.

Abstract: A retractable staircase is disclosed for ascending and descending between a lower elevation and an upper elevation. The retractable staircase comprises a main frame and staircase pivotally coupled to an upper surface. A drive causes a first lifting displacement defining an ascending compound displacement by simultaneously causing an ascending pivot displacement and an ascending slide displacement of the staircase. The drive causes a second lifting displacement defining only the ascending staircase pivot displacement and the ascending frame pivot displacement. The drive maintains the staircase in the upper elevation. The drive causes a first descending displacement defining only a descending staircase pivot displacement. The drive causes a second descending displacement defining a descending compound displacement by simultaneously causing the descending staircase pivot displacement and the descending slide displacement of the staircase.

Abstract: A collapsible ladder safety system for a ladder having first and second vertical ladder rail and a plurality of step rungs extending between the first and second vertical rails, the system comprising first and second upright tubular hand rails and a cross member pivotally attached to each of the first and second parallel upright tubular hand rails. The tubular hand rails or cross member are releasably securable to an upper end of the ladder. The first and second upright tubular hand rails are collapsible against the cross member when not secured to the ladder.

Abstract: An illuminant handrail includes a rod and two fixing seats respectively fixed to two ends of the rod. A fastener is mounted to a bottom of and extends downward from each fixing seat. Two illuminating devices are respectively mounted to the bottoms of the fixing seats. Each illuminating device includes a lamp seat receiving an illuminating unit. The lamp seat of each illuminating device is transparent and includes a top wall and a peripheral wall connected to the top wall. The top wall includes a fixing hole through which one of the fasteners extends. Each illuminating unit includes a lighting unit and a circuit board. Each illuminating unit is mounted between the fixing hole and the peripheral wall of one of the two illuminating devices. The light rays emitted by the illuminating devices transmit through the lamp seats to indicate the position of the handrail.

Abstract: A ladder cage is provided. The ladder cage includes opposite first and second sidewalls each extending parallel to a longitudinal axis. Spaced apart brackets are coupled to one of the sidewalls. Spaced apart rollers extend between the sidewalls. The rollers are each rotatable relative to the sidewalls along a rotation axis that extends transverse to the longitudinal axis. The rollers and inner surfaces of the brackets and the sidewalls define a housing configured for disposal of a ladder.

Abstract: A method of preventing or minimizing trespassing of a hunting tree stand and an apparatus therefor. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a work machine, in particular in the form of a dump truck or of a truck, having an upper deck which can be walked on arranged at the front above a bumper and having an operator's cabin arranged laterally on the upper deck with at least one step-like access system arranged in front of the operators cabin. In accordance with the invention, an intermediate stand lowered with respect to the upper deck is arranged in front of the operator's cabin and steps lead in each case laterally to the upper deck from this while steps lead at least to the bumper from the intermediate stand to the front in the direction of travel.

Abstract: An aerial ladder assembly for a fire apparatus includes a first truss member, a second truss member, and a plurality of rungs coupling the first truss member to the second truss member. The first truss member includes a first base rail, a first hand rail elevated from the first base rail, and a plurality of lacing members coupling the first base rail to the first hand rail. The second truss member includes a second base rail, a second hand rail elevated from the second base rail, and a plurality of lacing members coupling the second base rail to the second hand rail. The first truss member and the second truss member define a first zone and a second zone separated by a transition, and the first base rail and the second base rail have a first shape within the first zone and a second shape within the second zone.

Abstract: A hand grip assembly for climbing a tree includes a handle grip portion. A handle bracket is attached to the handle grip portion. At least one mounting bracket is attached to the handle bracket. The mounting bracket includes an angled shape for engaging a surface of the tree. A harness is attached to the handle bracket. The harness cinches about the tree and secures the hand grip assembly relative to the tree.

Abstract: The disclosed embodiments herein are generally directed toward force-balancing mechanisms for weighted members and/or loads. According to one embodiment, the force-balancing mechanism includes at least one gear rack, at least one spring assembly comprising a spring member operatively connected to the at least one gear rack, a pinion gear intermeshed with the at least one gear rack; and a variable radius cam. Rotation of the cam causes the pinion gear to rotate to thereby in turn linearly drive the at least one gear rack and accumulate spring force of the spring member. The spring member may be a compression or a tension spring. Preferably, the spring member is a compression spring.

Abstract: A ladder cage is provided. The ladder cage includes opposite first and second sidewalls each extending parallel to a longitudinal axis. Spaced apart brackets are coupled to one of the sidewalls. Spaced apart rollers extend between the sidewalls. The rollers are each rotatable relative to the sidewalls along a rotation axis that extends transverse to the longitudinal axis. The rollers and inner surfaces of the brackets and the sidewalls define a housing configured for disposal of a ladder.

Abstract: An improved ladderway system 30 for an underground raise. The system comprises an elongate tube 32 made of a suitably rigid plastics material and adapted to be received in the raise. The tube has a series of steps 34 moulded into an interior side wall thereof so as to form a ladder extending substantially the full length of the tube 32.

Abstract: Ladders, ladder components and related methods are provided including various embodiments of a combination ladder. In some embodiments, a platform is provided that is fixedly coupled with a rail assembly of a combination ladder. The platform may pivot between a useable position or state and a stowed or stored position or state. The platform may maintain a position relative to certain rungs of the rail assembly while being displaceable relative to other rungs of the rail assembly. A hand rail may be coupled to the rail assembly and a tray may be coupled with the hand rail. The tray and the platform may be configured to maintain a constant distance between one another while the rail assembly is adjusted for height.

Abstract: A safety system for a swimming pool ladder is described for use in above-ground swimming pools. The safety system can comprise a frame covered with fabric or other enclosure permanently or temporarily affixed to the ladder and/or the sidewall of an above-ground swimming pool. The fabric can comprise a plurality of vent holes to prevent excessive side loads caused by water currents. The safety system can be detachably coupled to the ladder using a tab and slot configuration. The safety system can prevent objects from entering and becoming trapped between the pool sidewall and the pool ladder.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a swimming pool structure with steps and handrails, installed inside a swimming pool to permit entering and exiting a pool. An anti-slip surface is incorporated into the steps and handrails, which improves friction between the structure and a user's feet and hands to promote safety when entering and exiting a swimming pool. The anti-slip surface is an overmolded coating that covers all parts of the structure that come into contact with the user's body. The overmolded coating is an elastomeric material such as a thermoplastic or natural elastomer with rubber-like features.

Abstract: A ladder safety apparatus and methods of using the same are disclosed. An example ladder safety apparatus includes a stabilizer bar for a top portion of a ladder, the stabilizer bar configured to rest on a roof top. The example ladder safety apparatus also includes a balance rail for the top portion of the ladder to provide substantially upright handles for a user to grasp when the ladder is positioned on the roof top. The balance rail and the stabilizer bar are formed as a unitary structure.

Abstract: A ladder safety apparatus and methods of using the same are disclosed. An example ladder safety apparatus includes a stabilizer bar for a top portion of a ladder, the stabilizer bar configured to rest on a roof top. The example ladder safety apparatus also includes a balance rail for the top portion of the ladder to provide substantially upright handles for a user to grasp when the ladder is positioned on the roof top. Further, the safety apparatus may be engaged to a ladder using one or more engagement rods.

Abstract: A tool for use with elevators and escalators, having two or more slidably connected assemblies, is provided. The assemblies have rails connected together and arranged in a parallel orientation. Support members are connected to the rails and a plurality of treads is attached to the support members. The treads are configured to provide a working surface upon which personnel can stand, sit or kneel and upon which materials can be placed. An extension member is connected to one end of the rails. Each extension member includes a locking member and a stop. Each locking member includes a first arm, a second arm and a third arm. In an open position, the third arm is in contact with the stop and in a closed position, the second arm is in contact with the stop. The assemblies are configured to bridge gaps formed within and around the elevators and escalators.

Abstract: Uprights and lateral or connecting posts to be used in conjunction with a gangway or other fall restraint equipment where the uprights and posts are created by cutting portions of integral, continuous pieces of tubular metal rather than welding smaller pieces of stock material together. Sidepost assemblies or handrails are created by connecting the uprights and posts together.

Abstract: A mobile lift unit for accessing bulk carrier top openings for use on a variety of bulk carriers that has a safety cage which is extendable to various heights while protecting operators from potential falls during the use thereof.

Abstract: A ladder cage comprises a plurality of spaced rings, having fasteners attached thereto. A plurality of vertical braces are each attached to respective ones of the fasteners, the vertical braces each having a mounting hole proximate each end, and extending between two of the plurality of rings. Each of the fasteners comprises a mounting pin having a slot therein, and a drop pin slidably mounted to that fastener for sliding in and out of its slot. An associated vertical brace is fastened to a ring by each fastener, as the fastener's mounting pin is received in the mounting hole of the associated vertical brace, and the drop pin of the fastener is received in the slot of said mounting pin, such that the drop-pin makes an angle of between about 30° and 60° to the vertical.

Abstract: A safety device designed to attach to a ladder used for accessing an aboveground pool to prevent small children from entering the pool unattended. The safety device is also designed for use as an emergency rescue flotation device. The safety device comprises a body portion made of a light weight floating material and an attachment portion for temporarily engaging the ladder and holding the safety device in place over a plurality of ladder rungs. In the event of a water emergency, the safety device may be used to extend the reach of a rescuer from a safe position without the need for the rescuer to enter the water.

Abstract: A climbing apparatus comprises a plurality of steps secured between parallel side walls. Steps ascend from a lower position to a higher position at which they are secured to an end wall. End wall is perpendicular to the side walls and secured to the side walls with corner members. Corner members are at least partially hollow to accommodate vertically reciprocating adjustable handles. Adjustable handles preferably have a curved end to secure to and accommodate the sides of a shopping cart and can be locked at one or more vertical positions. End wall, corner members, side walls, and steps can be separate components fixedly attached with adhesive or fasteners or they can be integral with one another. Steps can include slip-resistant features, one or more non-slip feet can be placed on the underside of the climbing apparatus, and a safety gate can be included as well.

Abstract: An access stairway attached with a platform of a machine, which is movable between a lowered position and a folded position. The access stairway includes a stairway pivotally supported at the platform, and a handrail attached to the stairway. The handrail is configured to collapse and align substantially close to the stairway in the folded position to allow an operator movement onto the platform.