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. The aerial ladder assembly includes a first ladder section extending longitudinally, a second ladder section extending longitudinally, and a support slidably coupling the second ladder section to the first ladder section such that the first ladder section supports the second ladder section. The support facilitates longitudinal movement of the second ladder section relative to the first ladder section between an extended position and a retracted position. The support is pivotably coupled to the first ladder section.

Abstract: An electrical power conductor support assembly has an upper support assembly. The upper support assembly has a central wheel configured to receive an electrical power conductor and allow the electrical power conductor to be pulled along the wheel, such that the wheel rotates as the electrical power conductor is pulled. A pair of opposing arms extend obliquely from either side of the wheel. The arms guide the electrical power conductor toward the wheel. A support assembly extends below the wheel and includes a support arm pivotally attached to a connection. The connection has a plurality of connecting ears adapted to releasably connect the support assembly to an extension arm of a utility truck.

Abstract: This expansion device is an expansion device that expands and contracts an boom, the expansion device including: a first hydraulic source that discharges a first working fluid; an expandable cylinder that has a fixed part and a movable part and is operated by the first working fluid; a second hydraulic source that is provided to the movable part, discharges the second working fluid, and is a separate hydraulic source from the first hydraulic source; a first connecting mechanism that is operated by the second working fluid and switches between a connected state and a disconnected state of the first boom element and the movable part; and a second connecting mechanism that is operated by the second working fluid and switches between a connected state and a disconnected state of the first boom element and the second boom element.

Abstract: A lift device includes a lift apparatus, a base assembly, and a controller. The lift apparatus is configured to raise and lower a removable robotic implement assembly. The base assembly is configured to support the lift apparatus and a primary mover. The primary mover is configured to provide rotational motion to one or more wheels supported by the base to move the lift apparatus. The controller is in communication with the implement assembly and the lift apparatus. The controller is configured to adjust a position of the robotic implement assembly and the lift apparatus in response to receiving instructions to perform a task.

Abstract: Systems and methods for cooperative aerial robotics for working in an aerial work environment. In some embodiments, a robot system may comprise a robot unit comprising high-dexterity manipulators for performing high-dexterity work. The robot system may further comprise a high-capacity manipulator for performing high-capacity work. The robot system may comprise a plurality of sensors for detecting the work environment and providing a representative work environment to an operator and/or a controller for operation of the robot system to complete the aerial work. The robot system may be remotely operated by an operator, automatically, and/or autonomously. The robot system may be disposed at the top of a boom of an aerial device for performing work in high-voltage areas.

Abstract: A lift machine includes a base having a first end and a second end, a first assembly, and a second assembly. The first end has first and second pivot points defining a first lateral axis. The second end has third and fourth pivot points defining a second lateral axis. The first assembly is pivotably coupled to the first and second pivot points. The first assembly extends away from the base in a first direction such that first and second tractive elements are longitudinally offset from the first lateral axis and spaced from the first end of the base. The second assembly is pivotably coupled to the third and fourth pivot points. The second assembly extends away from the base in a second direction such that third and fourth tractive elements are longitudinally offset from the second lateral axis and spaced from the second end of the base.

Abstract: Systems and methods for performing a task in an operation environment of an aerial device with an autonomous or semi-autonomous robot are described. In some embodiments, a robot is disposed at an end of a boom of an aerial device. The robot may comprise cameras, actuators, sensors, processors, and manipulators that work together to perform tasks fully autonomously or semi-autonomously. Furthermore, the robot may comprise tools for performing the tasks and computer-executable instructions for performing the tasks may be based on the various sensory inputs, the tools, and the tasks to be performed.

Abstract: A work vehicle including: a first link having one end portion supported by a vehicle body so as to be pivotable; a second link having one end portion pivotally coupled to the other end portion of the first link so as to be pivotable, and another end portion that supports a travel wheel; a first hydraulic cylinder capable of changing a swing posture of the first link; and a second hydraulic cylinder capable of changing a swing posture of the second link relative to the first link. The action of the first hydraulic cylinder is controlled such that a swing position of the first link is located at a target position, based on the result of detection performed by a position detection sensor, and the action of the second hydraulic cylinder is controlled such that thrust has a target value, based on the results of detection performed by pressure sensors.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a working robot. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the working robot comprises: a body; a plurality of traveling units connected to the body, having supporting members and traveling members rotatably connected to the supporting members, and provided so as to be travelable with respect to the ground; and a plurality of adjusting units connecting the body and the traveling units, and provided to enable the relative positions of the traveling units to the body to be adjusted, wherein the plurality of traveling units are traveled and the plurality of adjusting units are adjusted so as to maintain the horizontal state of the body.

Abstract: A swivel base is provided on a trolley so as to be able to swivel around a vertical axis, and a fork can be slid in a horizontal direction between an advanced position and a retracted position by a sliding mechanism capable of moving up and down along a pillar erected on the swivel base. Thus, it is possible to realize a configuration in which an empty-box skid is loaded in one direction and unloaded in another direction by means of the swiveling swivel base, without employing a configuration in which a plurality of members is supported so as to be able to swivel around different vertical axes. A movable range of the sliding mechanism (a movable range of the fork) in a vertical direction is therefore not significantly limited, and a transfer position of the empty-box skid in the vertical direction can be set to a lower position.

Abstract: A portable, height-adjustable gangway includes a lower tower structure comprising a lower landing and a lower movement assembly comprising a first set of wheels permitting the lower tower structure to travel over ground, an upper tower structure comprising an upper landing, an upper movement assembly comprising a second set of wheels permitting the upper tower structure to travel over ground, and an extending tower support connecting the upper movement assembly and the upper landing and comprising expandable struts configured to move the upper landing towards and away from the upper movement assembly, and a travellator pivotally connected to the lower tower structure and pivotally connected to the upper tower structure such that, when the expandable struts of the tower support extend at least one of towards and away from the upper movement assembly, the escalator tilts. The escalator can be a continuous set of stairs, a gondola-like trolley, or both.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a height accessible working platform. The disclosed working platform generally comprises a frame attachable to a lifting system for being moveable along the vertical axis and suspended thereto; a cradle; a first arm structure having a proximal end terminated to the frame and an distal end attached to the cradle, the first arm structure being extendable and retractable to displace the cradle respectively away from and closer towards one of lateral sides of the frame along a first axis substantially perpendicular to the vertical axis; and a counterweight mechanism mounting at one lateral side of the frame opposing to the cradle, the counterweight mechanism being configured to balance the working platform corresponding to displacement of the cradle along the first axis.

Abstract: A trailer lift that rises to high levels that may tilt for loading and unloading. The trailer lift includes a lift-and-tilt mechanism, a trailer base, and a trailer platform. The lift-and-tilt mechanism includes a lower-strut link, an upper-strut link, a support member, a lower lift cylinder, and an upper cylinder. The lower-strut link and the upper-strut link are pivotably and terminally attached to each other. The support member is positioned offset to the lower-strut link and is pivotably attached to the upper-strut link to guide the upper-strut link. The trailer platform is terminally and pivotably connected to the upper-strut link. Similarly, the trailer base is pivotably and terminally connected to the lower-strut link and the support member. The upper lift cylinder is pivotably mounted in between the upper-strut link and the trailer platform. The lower lift cylinder is pivotably mounted between the upper-strut link and the lower-strut link.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of engineering mechanics and more particularly, relates to an engineering work vehicle, and most particularly, relates to a vehicle with a rotary control box and aerial working platform. The vehicle with a rotary control box includes: a vehicle frame, a driving system disposed on the vehicle frame, and a control box; the control box is disposed at a lateral side of the vehicle frame in a rotary manner; and the control box is electrically connected with the driving system. embodiments of current invention makes it possible to manipulate with ease the aerial work platform to perform corresponding motions by an operator standing on the ground and, this kind of manipulation is quick and accurate. In addition, more convenience and human-friendliness is brought. At the same time, life time of relevant components of the aerial work platform is extended, and maintenance and repair cost is further reduced.

Abstract: A system for transporting a crane includes a crane which has a boom which is connected to a base, the base has a front end and an opposite rear end. A coupler is connected between a tractor and the front end of the base. A dolly is connected to the rear end of the base. In an embodiment the dolly includes a rear cradle which is shaped and dimensioned to receive and support the boom during transporting. In another embodiment the coupler includes a front cradle which is shaped and dimensioned to receive and support the boom during transporting.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide for a circuit that detects a contact between a high-voltage power source and an electrically-conductive non-grounded device. A probe may conduct an electric potential from the electrically-conductive device to the circuit. A first leg of the circuit may shift the phase of the electric potential of the first leg relative to a phase of the electric potential of a second leg of the circuit. A voltage indicative of the phase difference of the electric potential between the first leg and the second leg may be measured. The detected voltage may be indicative of the contact between the high-voltage power source and the electrically-conductive device.

Abstract: A boom mountable breaker system and a method of using same for interrupting electrical transmission through a portion of an energized conductor downstream of a desired break location. The method includes: mounting the jumper onto the energized conductor across the desired break location so as to form an electrically conductive first parallel electrical path; installing an in-line opener in the energized conductor at the desired break location on the energized conductor; positioning the breaker at the desired break location on the energized conductor, and electrically connecting the breaker, while open, across the desired break location and across the opposite ends of the jumper so as to form a second parallel electrical path when the breaker is closed; closing the breaker to thereby complete the second parallel electrical path; removing the jumper from across the desired break location; and, opening and then removing the breaker.

Abstract: A hoist system having a drum primarily self-contained within a batten, for raising and lowering lighting, sound equipment, curtains and the like in a performance environment. The hoist system may be adapted with safety mechanisms including an overload sensor and/or a slack line detector. The system may be provided in the form of a point hoist. The compact system is highly scalable to a variety of spaces and applications, including school and public theaters and concert halls, as well as some homes, private business, etc. Additional features include various cable management systems and trim adjustment mechanisms for use with the hoist system.

Abstract: An insulated utility vehicle for supporting a utility worker during the performance of a task is provided. The utility vehicle comprises a base, a boom assembly, and a utility platform. The base includes a power source of electrical energy and an energy emission assembly for emitting light energy within an enclosed housing. The boom assembly presents a proximal end pivotably attached to the base. An insulated energy transmission assembly associated with the boom assembly for receives and transmits the emitted light energy from the energy emission assembly. The utility platform is secured to a distal end of the boom assembly. An energy reception assembly associated with the utility platform receives the transmitted light energy from the energy transmission assembly and converts at least a portion of the transmitted light energy into electrical energy, which can be utilized by the utility worker in the utility platform to power a device.

Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure provide proportional integral derivative control (PID) using multiple actuators. In one embodiment, a process includes providing a PID controller in communication with a primary actuator and a secondary actuator, the primary actuator and the secondary actuator coupled to a handler. The process further includes receiving position feedback and a specified trajectory for the handler, and generating a dynamic feedforward force command and a position correction command for the handler based on the position feedback and the specified trajectory. The process further includes providing, from the PID controller, the dynamic feedforward force command to the secondary actuator and the position correction command to the primary actuator.

Abstract: A system for protecting an operator on an aerial work platform from a crushing hazard includes a sensor, such as opto-electric sensor, positionable adjacent the control panel area. A control system is programmed to control operation of the driving components based on signals from the sensor.

Abstract: A personal safety apparatus and systems include a mast connected to a base. The mast includes a plurality of mast sections and is vertically extendable from the base between a collapsed position and an extended position. A jib is rotatably connected to the mast. The jib is moveable between a first position wherein the jib is generally parallel to the mast and a second position wherein the jib extends outward from the mast. The jib includes a first jib arm and a second jib arm. The second jib arm is moveable relative to the first jib arm. An anchor point is secured to the jib. The anchor point is configured to connect to a cable configured to secure to a person.

Abstract: A variable height telescoping tower includes a base section and a second lower most section nested within the base section and extendable from within the base section. The second lower most section includes a plurality of vertically spaced lock apertures disposed thereon. A lock member is attached to the base section, and includes an engaging portion movable between a disengaged position at which the engaging portion rests outside of the lock apertures and an engaged position at which the engaging portion is engaged within one of the lock apertures of the second lower most section.

Abstract: A demolition apparatus including a main chassis, first and second front arms pivotally connected to the main chassis and comprising first and second wheel assemblies, respectively, a rear telescoping arm fixedly connected to the main chassis and comprising a third wheel assembly, first, second and third boom sections and a telescoping catwalk assembly, the first and second boom sections interconnected by a first hydraulic cylinder and the second and third boom sections interconnected by a second hydraulic cylinder, the first and second hydraulic cylinders comprising first and second resistances to movement, respectively, and, an excavator assembly pivotally connected to the main chassis, wherein the first, second and third wheel assemblies comprise first, second and third hydraulic motors, respectively, the first, second and third hydraulic motors are balanced and adapted to rotate the first, second and third wheel assemblies at a common speed, the first and second hydraulic cylinders are balanced and adapted

Abstract: A vehicle mounted telescopic boom structure including a stowable jib boom and a stowable extension boom pivotally secured thereto as well as a personnel basket which is secured to the outer end of the extension boom. When the boom structure, jib boom, extension boom and personnel basket are in their stowed position, the personnel basket is stowed on the deck of the vehicle beneath the jib boom and boom structure.

Abstract: A cable catching device, for installation on a crane boom to catch at least one cable, suspended above at least part of the device when the device is deployed by the crane boom, in the event that the cable falls downwardly, the device having: a base operable with connectors to releasably engage with the crane boom; a post having: a lower end engaged with the base; and an upper end extending beyond the base; a yoke having at least two arms extending upwardly from the upper end of the post, each arm having an upper end laterally spaced apart from the upper end of any adjacent arm, thereby defining an upwardly open yoke mouth between the upper ends of the arms, the yoke mouth being deployed adjacent an underside of the suspended cable wherein the arms are disposed a distance from the suspended cable; and each arm having an arm roller with an outer cable contact surface.

Abstract: Apparatus for elevating, laterally and rotationally positioning an aerial work platform relative to a support structure such as a mobile vehicle. In one embodiment a platform supporting carriage is mounted for sliding movement along a support beam affixed to a boom and the platform is mounted on the carriage permitting rotation of the platform about a substantially vertical axis. In a second embodiment a four bar linkage is used for longitudinally moving a rotatable platform. One or more powered means may be provided for elevating, leveling and longitudinally and rotationally positioning the work platform.

Abstract: A multiple envelope control system and method expands the operating capabilities of a lift vehicle. The vehicle includes a platform mounted to a telescoping main boom. The main boom is configured for lift/lower function and telescope function. The multiple envelope control system includes a selector switch for selecting between a plurality of capacity modes including at least a low load mode and a high load mode. A plurality of sensors are strategically positioned on the main boom to cooperatively define position zones of the platform. A control system determines in which position zone the platform located according to signals from the plurality of sensors. The control system controls an envelope of the platform based on a position of the selector switch. By strategically positioning the sensors to define the position zones, inexpensive switches, such as limit switches or the like, can be used, thereby reducing manufacturing costs of the machine.

Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments of a platform telescoping system which comprises a platform, a first supporting arm, a second supporting arm, a telescopic driving mechanism which comprises a first power output, end and a rotational driving mechanism which comprises a second power output end. The first power output end is integrated with the second supporting arm and causes the second supporting arm to move in a first direction, and the second power output end is integrated with the platform and causes the platform to pivot between a first position and a second position. The second supporting arm telescopes with respect to the first supporting arm for adjusting the position of the platform. The space occupied by the platform telescoping system may be reduced while its functions enhanced.

Abstract: A cable support system has a base that adhesively adheres to an attachment surface. Telescopic segments connect to the base and extend and retract in length. A cable receptacle attaches to an end portion of a final segment of the telescopic segments. A control system wirelessly receives instructions from a portable communication device, and at least one mechanical drive mechanism connects to the final segment of the telescopic segments and responds to the control system to extend and retract at least the final segment.

Abstract: A truck mounted telescopic boom structure including a stowable jib boom having a stowable personnel basket mounted thereon is described. A mounting structure is provided at the outer end of the innermost boom section of the boom structure and includes means for pivotally moving a work platform or basket between operative and stowed positions. When the boom structure and the jib boom are in their stowed positions, the personnel basket is positioned closely adjacent the jib boom at one side thereof so as to be within the highway width restrictions. The instant invention enables the personnel basket to be connected to the outer end of the jib boom at all times without the necessity of removing the personnel basket from the jib boom when the jib boom and the boom structure are in their stowed positions.

Abstract: An aerial work platform assembly is provided, comprising a platform shaft retaining assembly; a mounting bracket connected to the platform shaft retaining assembly; and a platform connected to the mounting bracket; wherein the platform shaft retaining assembly, mounting bracket, and platform are constructed from the same or differing composite materials comprising a fabric-reinforced resin. Optionally, the fabric-reinforced resin includes a preform fabric having a conformable three-dimensional weave, and the resin is a dielectric resin selected from either epoxy, epoxy vinyl ester, vinyl ester, polyester, or phenolic.

Abstract: A machine is provided for harvesting produce such as fruit from a pair of adjacent, generally parallel rows of trees. The machine includes a land vehicle for being driven between the adjacent rows of trees. The land vehicle includes a chassis that supports a fruit collection receptacle. There are at least one pair of selectively extendible and retractable lift arms pivotably mounted to the chassis. Each arm in each pair supports proximate a distal end thereof a carrier for holding a person. Each arm is adjustable to position the carrier such that a person in the carrier is able to manually collect fruit form a respective one of the rows of trees. There are plurality conduits, each of which is attached proximate an upper end thereof to a respective one of the carriers such that an entrance of the conduit is accessible to a person in a respective carrier.

Abstract: In various embodiments, a cable drop support system is provided including a base adapted for attachment to a surface; at least one segment connected to the base; and, a cable receptacle attached to a portion of the at least one segment, the cable receptacle being structured for receiving therein at least a portion of a cable.

Abstract: A lifting framework for an industrial truck has an extendible mast guided on a guide mast by rollers. Means are provided for bracing the extendible mast with the guide mast so as to prevent the extendible mast from inclining in the lateral direction of the lifting framework relative to the guide mast. The bracing means are configured such that, when the extendible mast is located in the top end position, a vertical movement of the extendible mast relative to the guide mast is prevented in the region of each of the two columns. A hydraulic lifting cylinder and a stop for the top end position of the extendible mast are arranged here in the region of each column.

Abstract: A boom lift vehicle includes a tower boom pivotally coupled at one end to a vehicle base for tower lift function and rotatable relative to the vehicle base for swing function. A main boom is pivotally coupled to an opposite end of the tower boom for main lift function. A tower boom elevation angle is defined as a maximum allowable tower boom angle relative to the vehicle base for transport. When the tower boom is below the tower boom elevation angle, the main boom angle relative to gravity is maintained at a set point angle, which is determined as the main boom angle (1) at the start of the swing function or vehicle drive, or (2) at a conclusion of the main lift function when combined with at least one of the swing function or vehicle drive. Additional control of the tower boom is effected when the tower boom is above the tower boom elevation angle.

Abstract: The present invention is an aircraft people lift system for use in combination with a movable elevated passenger walkway/bridge having an attached auxiliary access stairway and landing platform. The system includes a lifting portion which has a longitudinal base portion and a longitudinal elevating portion from which a personnel carrier platform is pivotally attached to a distal end of the longitudinal elevating portion. The longitudinal base portion is attached at its approximate distal end to a bogie wheel carriage frame structure of a passenger walkway/bridge. The lifting portion is capable of raising and lowering the personnel carrier platform such that the personnel carrier platform maintains a generally perpendicular relationship with the ground surface beneath the landing platform as it is being raised and lowered to and from the ground surface from and to an upper portion landing platform of the auxiliary access stairway.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for controlling the stability of elevating systems, such as personnel lifts. In one embodiment, a stability control apparatus includes an angle detector and a signal processor. The angle detector is mounted to a boom of a personnel lift and configured to detect an angle of inclination of the boom relative to an independent reference frame independent of the personnel lift. The signal processor is operatively connected to the angle detector and is configured to receive a first signal initiated by the angle detector when the angle of inclination reaches a predetermined angle. The signal processor is further configured to output a second signal in response to receiving the first signal causing a boom control system to limit movement of the boom relative to the independent reference frame when the angle of inclination reaches the predetermined angle.

Abstract: A control system for three mechanisms of a machine may include a pair of pivotable or rotatable structures and a telescoping or longitudinally urgeable structure that are coupled to a single handgrip and contained within a single structure. The control structures may simulate corresponding structures of an aerial platform on which they may be mounted, and provide motions in the same directions of the corresponding structures. Switches are activated upon urging of a handgrip, and springs may be provided to return the control to its neutral position. An aerial platform, a crane, or any other mobile machine may employ the control device and include corresponding structure.

Abstract: A boom arrangement for a rock drilling apparatus includes at least one boom and an actuator, e.g., a passenger cage, arranged at a free end of the boom. The boom also includes at least two boom parts articulated pivotably with respect to each other. The first boom part is articulated by a first articulation pivotable substantially in a horizontal direction. The second boom part in turn is arranged at an end of the first boom part, and the second boom part can be turned both vertically and horizontally with respect to the first boom part.

Abstract: A load lift comprising a lifter and a linkage on the lifter carrying a load support for movement therewith to different elevations. The linkage is a four-member linkage which includes a first vertical side member carried by the lifter, a second vertical side member carrying the load support, a third member constituting an upper member of the linkage pivotally connected to the first and second members, and a fourth member constituting a lower member of the linkage pivotally connected to the first and second members. An interconnection between the first and second members holds up the second member and load support and is thereby subject to loading on account of the load support and load thereon. Instrumentation senses the loading on the linkage indicative of the load on the load support.

Abstract: Load-bearing apparatus, such as a boom lift, including first and second arm portions, in which at least one element, such as a hydraulic cylinder, is provided for selectively imparting a predetermined dependent relationship as well as a predetermined independent relationship between the first and second arm portions. The manufacture of such load-bearing apparatus can be customized by preselecting the dependent and independent relationships by altering given parameters.

Abstract: A robot vehicle for hot-line job for transmission and distribution lines which comprises an insulating boom formed of an insulating material at a tip end stage of multiple stage booms, a base end of which is supported on an elevated work vehicle to be capable of swinging, pivoting up and down, and extending and contracting, and a frame provided on the tip end of the insulating boom, the frame mounting thereon double arm manipulators of multishaft construction for performing a distribution work, a slide device for sliding independently these right and left double arm manipulators front to rear, and lifting arms of multishaft construction having a function of lifting a heavy article, so as to allow an operator to perform remote control. An electric actuator is used for driving the double arm manipulators and the slide device, and hydraulic manipulators for driving the lifting arms.

Abstract: A crane extension system is provided for use with a crane having a boom, the improvement having a mounting platform assembly and a mounting basket, with the mounting basket secured to the mounting bracket assembly. The mounting platform assembly is secured to the crane, and includes a mounting plate attached to the crane and a mounting platform, with the mounting platform being attached to the mounting plate and having a mounting platform plate, a mounting bracket, and an adjustable bracket portion for adjusting the position of a mounting basket. Additionally, the mounting platform has a mounting platform base, with the mounting platform base secured to the mounting platform plate. The adjustable bracket portion is also secured to the mounting platform base.

Abstract: A mobile machine which carries the operator of the machine is equipped with a control which has a shape, geometry and motion analogous to that of the machine and which causes machine motion analogous to the motion imparted to the control by the operator. The analog control may be applied on mobile equipment including aerial work platforms, forklifts, front end loaders, backhoes, earth movers, bulldozers, diggers, trenchers, agricultural equipment, mining machinery, and other operator controlled vehicular equipment by tailoring the shape, geometry and motions of the control to be analogous to those of the machine being controlled.