Abstract: A safety walker having a frame with a set of spherical caster wheels connected to the lower portion of the frame to provide omnidirectional movement with reduced force. A braking system is provided, where when a weight exceeding a threshold weight is applied to the frame, the brake is engaged to inhibit movement of the walker on the ground. The brake may use a mechanism in which each spherical caster wheel is retractably mounted within a lower end of a corresponding leg of the frame. Each spherical wheel is spring-loaded to urge the spherical wheel downward from the lower end of the corresponding leg. As weight is applied to the frame, the spherical caster wheel is pushed into the lower end of the leg, allowing the lower end of the leg to contact the ground surface and maintain stationary contact between the leg and the ground surface.

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: A storage rack assembly includes a storage rack structure that can include a plurality of columns and a plurality of beams interconnecting the columns such that a plurality of storage bays are formed above a base surface. A plurality of storage deck sections include a first storage deck section supported on the storage rack structure within a first storage bay and a second deck section supported within a second storage bay. The first and second storage rack sections are at least partially supported on a common beam of the storage rack structure with one of the first and second storage rack sections including a decking support channel. The decking support channel includes a channel end portion positioned along the common beam with the channel end portion including a clearance tunnel dimensioned to receive a deck wire of the other of the first and second storage rack sections.

Abstract: A railroad freight car may have external fittings, such as trackside-accessible ladder fittings that permit personnel to climb onto the decks and walkways of the car. Several embodiments of movable ladder assemblies are described that provide an extended or deployed or raised position of a handhold, and a retracted or lowered, or stored position. In other embodiments, the assembly is provided with a compliant member that allows the handhold resiliently to flex when encountered by solid objects such as shipping containers.

Abstract: An access system for a hub of a wind turbine, wherein the hub comprises a first flange for mounting a first rotor blade, a second flange for mounting a second rotor blade and a third flange for mounting a third rotor blade is provided. The hub comprises a first opening, a second opening and at least a third opening, each of the openings being suitable for accessing an interior of the hub from outside of the hub. The access system comprises a first ladder with a plurality of first rungs, the first ladder extending inward from the first opening, a second ladder with a plurality of second rungs, the second ladder extending inward from the second opening, and a third ladder with a plurality of third rungs, the third ladder extending inward from the third opening.

Abstract: An open staircase is provided comprising a flight of stair treads and an uncut stringer. The treads have free opposing ends positioned on the stringer in a stepped apart relationship relative to one another and each are fixed to the uncut stringer at a position along the horizontal length of the tread such that the tread is cantilevered from the stringer.

Abstract: A cable tray includes a plurality of fasteners fastening rungs to side rails. Each fastener may be a radially expandable fastener having a radially expandable portion received in one of the fastener openings of one of the rungs. Each radially expandable portion is in an expanded configuration and frictionally engages the corresponding rung inside the corresponding fastener opening to inhibit withdrawal of the radially expandable fastener from the fastener opening. Each fastener opening may be defined by an interior surface of the corresponding rung and at least one projection extending radially inward from the interior surface relative to the fastener opening. The fastener may have an engagement portion frictionally engaging the corresponding at least one projection inside the corresponding fastener opening to inhibit withdrawal of the radially expandable fastener from the corresponding fastener opening.

Abstract: The invention relates to an operating fluid container for a motor vehicle, said container including a container body which is assembled from at least two injection-molded shells of thermoplastic plastics material which are complementary to each other. The shells are provided in each case with integrally molded structures which extend into the free container volume in such a manner that they bring about a restriction of a fluid surge created, for instance, in the container. At least some of the structures on each of the two shells are welded together at least in part or in a punctiform manner approximately in the joining plane of the container.

Abstract: The invention relates to a scaffolding post (25) made of metal, including a tube (26) and a tubular tube connector (27) integrally molded therewith. In a transition region between the tube connector (27) and the tube (26) a stop (46) is formed, the stop being in the form of an annular post-supporting end face (50) running perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the scaffolding post (25) and circumferentially around the longitudinal axis. The slide-on area (37) of the tube (26) has a plurality of indentations (86), each extending in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the scaffolding post (25) and each being designed with a tube inner cross-section reduction. The indentations are arranged distributed in the circumferential direction around the longitudinal axis of the scaffolding post (25) at regular intervals or equidistant and each extends continuously for a length in the tube slide-on region (37), starting directly from a tube-supporting end face in the direction of the tube connector (27).

Abstract: A marine ladder comprising a pair of laterally spaced step support members having a plurality of steps secured therebetween; said steps positioned between a lower portion and an upper portion of said step support members; an attachment member to secure said ladder to a platform; an adjustable support leg extending outwardly to abut a portion of said platform thereby positioning said steps in a generally horizontal plane; and wherein each successive step from said upper portion to said lower portion has a larger step tread than a preceding step.

Abstract: A visual indicator for a ladder is provided which may include a component having a photo luminescent material, a component have a reflective material, or both. In one embodiment, the visual indicator includes a rung plug having a cap portion and a body portion, the body portion being configured to be inserted into the interior hollow of a ladder rung such that the cap portion is visible along the side of an associated ladder rail. The cap portion may comprise a photo luminescent material, a reflective material or both. In one embodiment, the cap portion comprises a photo luminescent material while a separate reflective indicator is placed on the ladder rail at a location adjacent the rung plug.

Abstract: A three-step pool ladder having the capability to have a fourth step and/or a curve-about ladder apparatus.

Abstract: A collapsible staircase is provided with a set of flat parts, with each of the parts intended to function as steps. Each flat part can be moved between a first position and a second position. All of the flat parts are substantially coplanar when the parts are in the first position, and the parts are disposed above each other and at a distance from each other when the parts are in the second position. A retractable holding handle is also provided and driven together with the flat parts.

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 dual-use ladder and bridge modular system preferably includes tubes, gussets, flanges, and/or joints. In a preferred embodiment, the tubes, gussets, flanges, and/or joints are made of carbon fiber. A method connects and disconnects modular carbon fiber ladder segments. Another method creates a lightweight carbon-fiber beam with exceptionally high stiffness and strength using a combination of carbon-fiber braid material, uni-directional cloth, and pultruded carbon-fiber strips. A carbon fiber ladder segment and tube connectors are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to an extendable/retractable ladder mounted to a boat trailer to allow access to a boat carried on the trailer. The ladder includes a pair of first vertically oriented bars and a pair of second bars. The vertically oriented bars have an inner cavity and a slot in one of its sides. The second bars have an inner cavity and a slot in one of its sides. The first end of the first bars and the second end of the second bars are connected such that the second end of the second bars can move along the length of the first bars between an extended position in which the first end of the second bars is a distance away from the first bars and a retracted position in which the first end and the second end of the second bars are adjacent to the first bars.

Abstract: A hunting stand apparatus includes a pair of posts each having a bottom end and a top end. Each of the posts is telescoping and includes a same number of a plurality of tubular members such that sets of tubular members are defined. Each of a plurality of rungs is attached to and extending between tubular members of each set. A plurality of locking members is provided for locking the sets in an extended position. A seat has a front edge pivotally coupled to an upper most one of the rungs. A pair of brackets is also provided. Brackets are attached to each of the posts. Each of a pair of supports is removably attached to and extends between one of the brackets and a back edge of the seat such that the seat is angled with respect to the posts.

Abstract: A platform is provided with a ladder to allow the user to easily ascend to the platform. A pair of stabilizing arms and jaws provides lateral stability to the ladder. A climbing stick has a pair of vertical posts attached between the front and rear walls of steps to provide a secure connection. The upper and lower ends extend inwardly and away from each other to provide a gripping surface. A tree stand has a male adapter with a bracket for securing a strap. The strap is used to secure the male adapter in place. Once secured to the tree, the platform area can be attached to the male adapter using a female adapter. The ability to first secure the smaller, lighter bracket and male adapter to a tree before attaching the platform using a female adapter increases the ease in securing the tree stand to a tree.

Abstract: A ladder assembly for a work vehicle is disclosed. The ladder assembly may generally include a ladder having a first side rail, a second side rail and first and second rungs extending between the first and second side rails. The ladder may be supported on the work vehicle at a first pivot point and a second pivot point. The ladder may also include a first linkage and a second linkage. The first linkage may be coupled between the first rung and the first pivot point and the second linkage may be coupled between the second rung and the second pivot point. In addition, the ladder may be configured to pivot about the first and second pivot points between a first position and a second position.

Abstract: The aquatic ladder has wide, deep treads, arranged like a staircase, with side and upper railings to make it easy to enter or exit the water, even by elderly people, tired individuals, those carrying aquatic equipment, such as SCUBA gear or water skis, and, even, by pets. The ladder is preferably made from aluminum, although it can be made of other materials, such as steel (e.g., stainless or galvanized), fiberglass, plastic, or other composites.

Abstract: A ladder constructed for reaching an elevated surface or object and having a bow-shaped configuration so that the reach may extend further from the base on which the footing of the ladder rests, the ladder being configured to reach areas such as the roof of a vehicle.

Abstract: A fiberglass reinforced lightweight heavy-duty ladder, and method of making the same, is presented. The method includes impregnating rovings with a resin system and forming the impregnated rovings into a set of rails having a center portion, a left sidewall portion, and a right sidewall portion, where the left sidewall portion and the right sidewall portion each have an article roving density at least 10% greater than that of the center portion.

Abstract: A three-step pool ladder having the capability to have a fourth step and/or a curve-about ladder apparatus.

Abstract: A dual-use ladder and bridge modular system preferably includes tubes, gussets, flanges, and/or joints. In a preferred embodiment, the tubes, gussets, flanges, and/or joints are made of carbon fiber. A method connects and disconnects modular carbon fiber ladder segments. Another method creates a lightweight carbon-fiber beam with exceptionally high stiffness and strength using a combination of carbon-fiber braid material, uni-directional cloth, and pultruded carbon-fiber strips. A carbon fiber ladder segment and tube connectors are also disclosed.

Abstract: A dual-use ladder and bridge modular system preferably includes tubes, gussets, flanges, and/or joints. In a preferred embodiment, the tubes, gussets, flanges, and/or joints are made of carbon fiber. In one embodiment, a removable platform converts the segmented ladder system into a bus assault ladder/platform. Another preferred embodiment includes a bridge conversion kit. Yet another preferred embodiment includes a stretcher cover. When none of the bus assault platform, the bridge conversion kit, or the stretcher cover are needed, the ladder can be used as normal, or stored in a carry bag.

Abstract: A ladder is designed for a tank having a vertically extending side wall and a top of a convex curved profile, with an access point near the top center of the convex curved top, the ladder having a pair of parallel side rails, each side rail having a straight section at one end and a curved section at the other end, the curved section extending over the top of the tank and toward the access point, with plurality of rungs extending between and secured to the side rails, with at least one rung positioned in the straight section of the side rails and at least one rung positioned in the curved section of the side rails. A separate hand grip may be mounted on the tank between the ladder and the access point of the tank.

Abstract: Climbing products containing rails decorated using veil products colored, patterned, painted or in combination with marking methods such as company names and logos and resin formulation designed to withstand exposure to UV radiation with minimal change in appearance which create specific appearances for applications, enhance weathering performance, and facilitate processing efficiency. A combination of a filler free resin and coated veil systems to create a synergistic weather resistance surface with self contained color, pattern, picture, logo or combination of said same for climbing products. A system for producing components. Various methods, system, a ladder rail.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a ladder assembly consisting of a plurality of ladder segments each comprising a pair of identical rails, a third rail disposed medially between the parallel rails but not in the same plane, a plurality of rungs forming steps perpendicularly positioned and attached to the parallel rails but each diverted medially to attach to the third rail, and a plurality of joints sized to join each segment end-on-end to form the assembly, but with the proviso that in any ladder assembly having at least three segments, one of the third rails in the assembly is shorter than the other rails.

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: An extendable/retractable ladder assembly includes a first stile and a second stile and a plurality of rungs extending therebetween. Each stile may comprise a plurality of columns disposed in a nested arrangement for relative axial movement in a telescopic fashion. A connector assembly connects the rungs to respective columns in the first and second stiles. The ladder has improved manufacturability since connector assemblies may be assembled before connecting the rungs to respective columns. The standing surface of the rungs may be angled such that it is rotated towards horizontal when the ladder assembly is leaned against a wall. A latch assembly may be used to selectively lock relative axial movement between adjacent columns. The latch assembly includes a locking pin assembly comprised of a central post and an outer metal sleeve. An air damper may also be used to control airflow through the columns.

Abstract: A ladder constructed for reaching an elevated surface or object and having a bow-shaped configuration so that the reach may extend further from the base on which the footing of the ladder rests, the ladder being configured to reach areas such as the roof of a vehicle.

Abstract: An accommodation ladder includes a body having opposite sides, an upper, and rear and bottom surfaces. The body is formed of a compressible material, such as dense foam material, and the upper surface of the body forms a staircase with a plurality of steps. Spaced stanchions extend upwardly from the staircase and stanchion pipes extend through the body and receive lines therethrough to secure the body to a marine structure. The spaced stanchions are adapted to accommodate a plurality of releasable safety lines therebetween. A method of facilitating access between adjacent first and second marine structures includes arranging the staircase accommodation ladder between the structures, the accommodation ladder being a fender between such structures.

Abstract: A ladder is designed for a tank having a vertically extending side wall and a top of a convex curved profile, with an access point near the top center of the convex curved top, the ladder having a pair of parallel side rails, each side rail having a straight section at one end and a curved section at the other end, the curved section extending over the top of the tank and toward the access point, with plurality of rungs extending between and secured to the side rails, with at least one rung positioned in the straight section of the side rails and at least one rung positioned in the curved section of the side rails.

Abstract: Ladders, ladder components and related methods are provided. In some embodiments, adjustable stepladders are provided which include locking mechanisms that enable height adjustment of the ladder through application of a force towards the rails of the ladder. In other embodiments, spreader mechanisms are provided with cross bracing located and configured to provide additional stability to the ladder while also incorporating a handle that enables efficient collapsing of the ladder while reducing the potential of pinching ones hands or fingers. In another embodiment, a device is provided for selective coupling with the ladder that includes a support or safety rail and an adjustable tray. The device may be coupled with the ladder in a number of different positions including a stowed position. In another embodiment, a hinge assembly is provided having a magnetic component configured to be magnetically coupled with and temporarily store an object on the ladder.

Abstract: A ladder constructed for reaching an elevated surface or object and having a bow-shaped configuration so that the reach may extend further from the base on which the footing of the ladder rests, the ladder being configured to reach areas such as the roof of a vehicle.

Abstract: A modular tree climbing ladder including a support member, at least one stabilizing bracket secured to the support member, and a pair of steps pivotally secured to the support member. The support member includes a front piece and a rear piece configured to form two channels that oppose one another and form an interior angle of less than 180 degrees. The steps are each pivotally secured to the support member within one of respective said opposing channels such that each of said steps oppose one another and form an angle equal to said interior angle. The steps are independently rotatable from a vertical (or storage) position to a horizontal (or operational) position. The steps include a stepping surface and are secured to said support member such that respective stepping surfaces are coplanar when both steps are in the horizontal position. The modular tree climbing ladder can further include a securing belt mounting bracket that is secured to the support member.

Abstract: The invention relates to a ladder that is configured to be mounted to a boat trailer to allow access to a boat carried on the trailer. The ladder includes a pair of first vertically oriented bars, a pair of second bars and a pair of third bars. The pair of first, vertically oriented bars have a length defined between a first end and a second end, an inner cavity passing between the first end and the second end, at least two sides, and a slot in one of the sides extending from the first end in the direction of the second end.

Abstract: The aquatic ladder was designed for ease of use, rather than ease of storage. It has wide, deep treads, arranged like a staircase, with side and upper railings which make it easy to enter or exit the water, even by elderly people, tired individuals, those carrying aquatic equipment, such as SCUBA gear or water skis, and, even, by pets. In the preferred embodiment, the aquatic ladder includes upper railings which each have an inverted “U” shape, and the distal end of those railings have hinged brackets for mounting the aquatic ladder to an object to be boarded. In an alternative embodiment, the aquatic ladder is mounted on a sliding rail, such that it can be raised, vertically, from the water, when it is not being used. The vertical portions of the ladder are short, relative to the overall height of the ladder whereby less material is used to manufacture the ladder, while making its shipment and storage easier.

Abstract: A method of providing a traversable path along a surface, the method including the steps of placing a portable pathway onto the surface, the portable pathway having a frame member comprising at least a first layer, and at least one adjustable step coupled with the frame member. The method further includes securing the portable pathway in situ, and adjusting the step to a desired position.

Abstract: An indexing hinge may be used with ladders and the like and provides stops at various indexed locations using radially-moving indexing pins. The indexing structure is contained within the hinge body substantially without projecting elements other than one or more indexing rods used to actuate the internal indexing mechanism.

Abstract: A base extending mechanism is provided for a ladder in the form of pivotable lower leg sections which can be independently rotated outwards to provide a wider ladder base. This extension of the ladder base is complementary to and supported by a compatible ladder levelling mechanism.

Abstract: The invention relates to scaffold steps, with two separate side pieces (11) and a plurality of separate step elements (13, 13?, 13?), which can be detachably coupled to each other and to the side pieces.

Abstract: An extensible, vehicle-mounted ladder with movable rungs is used to aid in raising and lowering in rescue operations. The ladder includes a rotatable base having storage space to hold extra rungs supporting the variable extended positions of the ladder. The ladder includes a plurality of ladder units or extensible booms. Each ladder unit includes four C-rails. A first ladder unit is attached to the rotatable base and the others extensible therefrom. The ladder includes rungs that slidably engage within two of the C-rails. A drive cable connects the rungs in a closed loop and is powered to enable rung rotation in a closed loop around the ladder units within the C-rails.

Abstract: Designs for adapting a ladder rail so that accessories to the ladder can be quickly and securely mounted and released without using tools. Aspects of the invention include: (1) configurations of holes in ladder rails for receiving accessories for toolless attachment and release; (2) catches affixed to the rail to secure the accessory; (3) attachment bases permanently mounted to the ladder rail with structures for toolless attachment and release of accessories to the base; (4) catches affixed to the base to secure the accessory; (5) attachment structures on the accessory for toolless attachment and release of the accessory to a base or a ladder rail; and (6) catches affixed to the accessory to secure the accessory to a base or rail.

Abstract: A dual-use ladder and bridge modular system preferably includes tubes, gussets, flanges, and/or joints. In a preferred embodiment, the tubes, gussets, flanges, and/or joints are made of carbon fiber. A method connects and disconnects modular carbon fiber ladder segments. Another method creates a lightweight carbon-fiber beam with exceptionally high stiffness and strength using a combination of carbon-fiber braid material, uni-directional cloth, and pultruded carbon-fiber strips. A carbon fiber ladder segment and tube connectors are also disclosed.

Abstract: A ladder is designed for a tank having a vertically extending side wall and a top of a convex curved profile, with an access point near the top center of the convex curved top, the ladder having a pair of parallel side rails, each side rail having a straight section at one end and a curved section at the other end, the curved section extending over the top of the tank and toward the access point, with plurality of rungs extending between and secured to the side rails, with at least one rung positioned in the straight section of the side rails and at least one rung positioned in the curved section of the side rails.

Abstract: A top tread for aluminum ladder includes a splice aluminum member 1 assembled by two or more aluminum single elements and two side plastic members 3 and a metal tube assembly 2. The front and the rear end of the splice aluminum member 1 are equipped with side skirts 111, 131 which are set downwardly. The upper and the lower end of the side plastic members 3 are equipped with an upper and a lower covering edge 31, 32 by which the two side plastic member 3 can clamp the two sides of the splice aluminum member 1 or the two sides of an assembly unit formed by the metal tube 2 and the splice aluminum member 1, and the upper and the lower covering edges 31, 32 can clamp the two side interspaces between the front and the back side skirt 111, 131 at the same time.

Abstract: A portable modular ladder system which comprises a plurality of stiles. A plurality of steps are spaced apart which extend laterally from opposite sides of each stile in an alternating manner. A plurality of stabilizers are spaced apart which extend rearwardly from each stile. A mechanism is for interconnecting the plurality of stiles together end to end. .A mechanism is for retaining the plurality of stabilizers against a substantially vertical structure, wherein a person can climb up the plurality of steps on the plurality of stiles.

Abstract: An improved marine emergency rope ladder apparatus includes: (a) a continuous piece of rope knotted so as to form a safety ladder having a top and a bottom-free end, two side pieces that form a loop at the top of the ladder which is used to attach the top of the ladder to the surface to which it is to be affixed, and a plurality of rungs extending between these side pieces, (b) a pull rope whose top end is attached proximate the free end of the ladder and whose length is such that its bottom end is place proximate a water surface to which the ladder is to be extended, (c) a covering for the ladder in the form of a sleeve with a top flap and a means for releasably connecting the covering's bottom portion so that it can support the weight of the ladder fitted within the covering, and wherein this releasable means is configured so that a pull on the pull rope causes the releasable means to open the covering's bottom so as to allow the free end of the ladder to fall to the water below.

Abstract: A ladder storage device includes: a ladder end cradle, adapted to releasably, rotatably receive the top end of the ladder when the ladder is in an lowered orientation. When the ladder is received and rotated into a raised orientation, the ladder end cradle retains the top end of the ladder so that the legs of the ladder may be releasably held to the ceiling, thereby storing the ladder adjacent to the ceiling.