Abstract: A ladder for a user to climb and which holds a rag includes a first rail having a top and a second rail and rungs attached to the first rail and second rail. The ladder includes an end cap that is attached adjacent to the top of the first rail. The end cap having an attachment portion which attaches to the first rail and a cover portion which covers over the first rail, and extend caps from the attachment portion. The cover portion having a rag holder. The ladder includes a pad attached to the back of the cover portion which contacts a surface against which the first rail leans down so as not to mar or scratch or damage the surface. An end cap. A method.

Abstract: A toe space module for elevating platforms, wherein the module wraps around the edges and bottom of the platform in order to transform tension stress into shear and compression stresses. Also, a platform with a toe space module attached, and method for manufacturing the platform and toe space module. Also, a combination toe space module and step, a platform with the combination toe space module and step, and methods for manufacturing the platform with the combination toe space module and step.

Abstract: A general purpose insulation bag is provided. The general purpose insulation bag includes a jacket configured to form a desired three dimensional shape. The jacket forms a cavity therewithin and has an opening. Insulative material is positioned within the cavity and is configured to form an insulative layer. The insulative layer has a thickness configured to provide a desired insulative value to the general purpose insulation bag. The opening is configured to retain the insulative material within the cavity formed within the jacket.

Abstract: The invention provides an aerial lift bucket insert having a raised step. The bucket insert is comprised of a pan, the pan having a raised rim wall that includes a handle and a raised step. The raised step has an area beneath the raised step that is sufficient to accommodate a worker's boot. The bottom of the pan and the top of the step are provided with scuff pads. In other embodiments, there can be a plurality of raised steps one atop the other or in opposing corners. The raised formed step is 9 inches high, has a depth of 5.5 inches and the distance between the bottom of the raised formed step and the pan is 5 inches. A cutout handle in the wall facilitates cleaning of the insert.

Abstract: An attic stairway insulator assembly configured for placement within a building scuttle is provided. The building scuttle has a length and a width. The attic stairway insulator assembly includes a base configured to cover the building scuttle. The base has a length and a width corresponding generally to the length and the width of the building scuttle. A bag is seated on the base and has insulative material within a jacket. The bag has a length that is longer than the length of the base and a width that is wider than the width of the base such that portions of the bag having the insulative material drape over portions of the base.

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 tree stand comprises a metal post, a lower platform pivotably coupled to the metal post for pivoting between a platform extended position and a platform folded position, an upper seat pivotably coupled to the post for pivoting between a seat extended position and a seat folded position, and a rubber or polymeric interface having a thickness of at least ? of an inch and contacting the post and at least one of lower platform when lower platform is in the platform folded position, and the upper seat when the upper seat is in the seat folded position.

Abstract: Work platforms are generally discussed herein for providing expanded work space for their users with specific discussions extended to portable work platforms that are mountable on vertical or horizontal poles and the like, such as utility poles, for expanding useful work space. The portable work platform has a deck attached to a base by a beam, which is made from a non-conducting material. A strap assembly having a webbing is connected to the base and configured for use with a ratchet mechanism to tension the webbing around a pole to mount to the platform. The beam enhances electrical isolation between the deck and the base.

Abstract: A restraint system for restraining a worker to a platform of an aerial device comprises a restraint liner and a platform strap. The restraint liner includes four sidewalls, a floor, a lip, an interior anchor, and an exterior anchor. The floor may be coupled to one end of the four sidewalls, while the lip may be coupled to the opposing end of the four sidewalls and may extend therefrom. The interior anchor may be positioned on an interior surface of a first sidewall and operable to couple to a liner strap coupled to a worker. The exterior anchor may be positioned on an exterior surface of the first sidewall. The platform strap may be coupled to the exterior anchor and operable to couple to the platform.

Abstract: A cover for closing an access opening that leads to an infrequently used space within a building, such as an attic, that generally provides an air seal, thermal insulation and/or acoustic insulation at the access opening. The cover may be in one or two portions, including a closure alone or a closure and a frame having an aperture that can be closed by engagement between the closure and the frame. When the cover is used alone it engages a frame or a wall circumscribing the access opening. The cover is sized and shaped to close a stairwell, or the opening at one end of a stairway, an opening in a generally vertical wall, a hatch, or a pull down ladder. The closure and frame are each made of one or more components.

Abstract: An inflatable insulator covers an associated attic access hatch to prevent a transfer of heat from a first indoor environment maintaining temperature control and a second indoor environment not maintaining temperature control. The insulator includes at least one air chamber adapted to contain a volume of stationary air. Impermeable layers define the air chamber. Sidewalls extending from a generally planar top wall to remove the impermeable layers from a direct contact with the access hatch.

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: Covers for attic trap doors and pull down attic stairs or ladders are described each of which is formed of an insulating material. The covers are structured to effectively seal a ceiling access opening. In some embodiments, a closure member constructed of insulating material is cooperatively and frictionally received within a frame formed of the same material to form an airtight seal therebetween.

Abstract: A method of electrically insulating one or more components of a boom assembly involves applying a seamless coating of dielectric material to an outer surface of each of one or more boom assembly components, the boom assembly components being constructed of metal or other electrically conductive material. The dielectric material is applied as a liquid and, when hardened, creates a seamless, electrically insulating barrier on the boom assembly components to which it is applied. A layer of ultraviolet radiation protective material may be applied on top of the layer of dielectric material to protect the dielectric material from ultraviolet degradation. The boom assembly components may be painted or otherwise treated prior to the application of the dielectric material.

Abstract: An insulating cover for an attic or other opening is provided which mounts on top of a stair frame or framed opening or the like without the necessity of attic flooring, characterized by economical construction, economical shipping, ease of assembly, ease of installation above the opening, and a footprint substantially similar to the frame of the folding stair or the empty opening. The present invention further provides an insulating cover that is rugged enough for continued use yet light enough and supported in such as way as to have an ease of opening, staying open and closing as the consumer needs. In a further embodiment, the invention components may be substantially flat packed for ease of shipping and handling. In a further embodiment, the invention provides a multifunction insulating cover that may be fitted with a ventilation means, such as a louver or powered fan to enable ventilation through the framed opening even though the attic cover would be closed.

Abstract: Covers for attic trap doors and pull down attic stairs or ladders are described each of which is formed of an insulating material. The covers are structured to effectively seal a ceiling access opening. In some embodiments, a closure member constructed of insulating material is cooperatively and frictionally received within a frame formed of the same material to form an airtight seal therebetween.

Abstract: An aerial work assembly including components having composite materials including a fabric-reinforced resin for providing electrically non-conductive assembly, by insulating and/or isolating conductive components.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to an improved archery bow having a greatly enhanced ability to absorb shock, vibration and sound. In order to achieve improved sound and vibration dampening, the bow riser, and optionally the bow limbs are coated with an energy absorbing and/or dampening coating. The coating is permanently attached to the riser and/or the limbs of the bow and greatly reduces undesired vibrations and/or noise generated by and during the archery bows use, without interfering with the performance of the bow. The invention also relates to treestands and archery accessories having a low noise profile.

Abstract: A wearable lightweight fire fighter's personal escape system and method includes a rope, having a distal and proximal end, packed within an exterior rope pouch that is appointed to be removably attached to a belt or harness, worn by a fire fighter. The proximal end of the rope exits through an opening in the exterior/outer rope pouch and is attached directly to a lightweight hook, or optionally enters a belay device. The hook has a sharp point for creating a purchase point on soft surfaces, a hook opening having sufficient diameter to surround radiators, steam pipe and the like, and capture rope that surrounds substantial objects. The hook has a central opening appointed for holding a firefighting tool to aid in creating a substantial object. The fire fighter escapes by creating a purchase point and repelling at a high speed or at a controlled speed by adjusting belay friction.

Abstract: A shop horse pad of closed cell foam is cylindrical in shape and having a central radial opening provided therein. An axial slit is provided along the length of the pad that creates two axial edges. A strip of adhesive is arranged along at least one of the axial edges. A covering strip, of preferably cellophane, is provided on the strip of adhesive such that when it is removed, the two axial edges adhere together. In this manner, a user may simply force the pad over the horizontal work tubing of the shop horse and removes the covering strip. Thereafter, the axial edges of the pad are forced together to form a solid pad about the exterior of the horizontal tubing.

Abstract: A preferred embodiment alarm device for use with fall protection equipment includes an elongating member, an alarm, an activation member, and a connecting member. The elongating member has a first end and a second end and extends in length as the first end and the second end are pulled in different directions. The alarm is operatively connected to the first end of the elongating member, and the activation member is releasably connected to the alarm. The activation member activates the alarm when disconnected from the alarm. The connecting member interconnects the activation member and the second end of the elongating member, and the activation member becomes disconnected from the alarm when the elongating member is extended in length as the first end and the second end are pulled in different directions thereby activating the alarm when the elongating member is extended.

Abstract: A rigid, unitary ladder is provided having one end configured to be attached to a powerline support tower after the ladder is dropped by helicopter to a lineman previously offloaded onto the tower. The ladder includes a first section which extends outwardly from the tower and a second section which extends at an angle at least equal to ninety degrees from an end of the first section to a base which is configured to rest on the powerline, the angle being defined between the undersides of the first and second ladder sections. The first section is of a length sufficient to space the base a distance from the tower which is beyond the flashover area around the tower.

Abstract: A thermal insulating cover is presented. The cover includes a top, a plurality of sides extending from the top and a wide base perimeter extending from the plurality of sides. The device may be formed as a unitary piece, or may be provided in two or more sections which are easily assembled together. A piece of foam, acting as a gasket may be affixed to the base perimeter.

Abstract: A rigid, unitary ladder is provided having one end which attaches to a powerline support tower after the ladder is dropped by helicopter to a lineman previously offloaded onto the tower. The ladder includes a first section which extends outwardly from the tower and a second section which extends angularly downward from the first section to a base which rests on the powerline. The first section is of a length sufficient to space the base a distance from the tower which is beyond the flashover area around the tower.

Abstract: A thermal insulating cover is described along with a method of manufacturing a cover for use over a set of attic stairs, when they are retracted into the ceiling. The cover is made of two major protective surfaces, surrounding a insulating material to form a blanket, that is then cut and folded to form a box, that is fastened together to form the cover.

Abstract: A rigid, unitary ladder is provided having one end which attaches to a powerline support tower after the ladder is dropped by helicopter to a lineman previously offloaded onto the tower. The ladder includes a first section which extends outwardly from the tower and a second section which extends angularly downward from the first section to a base which rests on the powerline. The first section is of a length sufficient to space the base a distance from the tower which is beyond the flashover area around the tower.

Abstract: A process for manufacturing ladders comprises the following steps: arranging a plurality of rungs (2) of a material comprising a plurality of reinforcing fibers (2a) associated with a binding resin (2b) and each having at least one coupling portion (2c); arranging at least one primary upright length (3), preferably of a material comprising a plurality of reinforcing fibers (3a) associated with a binding resin (3b); mechanically linking the coupling portions (2c) of the rungs (2) to corresponding engagement regions (3c) of the primary upright length (3). The linking step involves bringing at least one of the binding resins (2b, 3b) to the fluid phase at least close to the engagement regions (3c) and/or the coupling portions (2c). The binding resins (2b, 3b) are thermoplastic polymeric materials and the step of bringing the binding resins (2b, 3b) to the fluid phase takes place by melting of the binding resins (2b, 3b).

Abstract: A scaffold plank comprising a rectangularly configured main body which defines opposed ends, and a pair of end caps secured to respective ones of the opposed ends of the main body. Both the main body and the end caps are preferably fabricated from a recycled/recyclable plastic material. Additionally, the main body may be provided with one or more internal steel reinforcement bars for purposes of selectively increasing the level of structural integrity/rigidity thereof.

Abstract: An aerial work platform supported by a riser boom, a telescoping main boom, and a jib boom. Boom movement may be controlled by a platform control module or a ground control module connected to a controller by a controller area network (CAN). Movement of the platform and the jib boom are limited to a predefined envelope. If an operator attempts to move the platform outside the envelope, the controller automatically retracts the telescoping boom section or automatically levels the jib boom section in order to maintain the platform within the acceptable envelope. Boom section select switches permit the operator to select and move sequentially or simultaneously in different directions. Timers which are part of the system include various interlocks to accomplish safety and power saver features.

Abstract: A process for manufacturing ladders comprises the following steps: arranging a plurality of rungs (2) of a material comprising a plurality of reinforcing fibers (2a) associated with a binding resin (2b) and each having at least one coupling portion (2c); arranging at least one primary upright length (3), preferably of a material comprising a plurality of reinforcing fibers (3a) associated with a binding resin (3b); mechanically linking the coupling portions (2c) of the rungs (2) to corresponding engagement regions (3c) of the primary upright length (3). The linking step involves bringing at least one of the binding resins (2b, 3b) to the fluid phase at least close to the engagement regions (3c) and/or the coupling portions (2c). The binding resins (2b, 3b) are thermoplastic polymeric materials and the step of bringing the binding resins (2b, 3b) to the fluid phase takes place by melting of the binding resins (2b, 3b).

Abstract: A cover apparatus (10) is provided which is easily and quickly installed, is simple to use, and is cost effective for selective closing of an attic opening (14) and for providing a thermal and dust barrier. The cover apparatus (10) preferably includes structure (12), adapted for placement over an opening (14) defined by peripheral wall or ceiling surfaces (16), and a plurality of snap fasteners (18a, 18b, 18c, 18d) for detachably coupling the structure (12) to the surfaces (16). The structure (12) includes a panel (20) presenting an inboard face (22), continuous, circumscribing sidewalls (24) extending from the inboard face (22) of panel (20), and a continuous, circumscribing flange (32) extending transversely and outwardly from the outer margin (28) of the sidewalls (24). The flange (32) includes an outermost lip (36) configured for firmly engaging the surfaces (16) when the structure (12) is coupled to the surfaces (16).

Abstract: A climbing device for a tree or other vertical columnar member having a platform fashioned from fiber-reinforced composite material. The platform is a one-piece structure having a peripheral skin with bi-directionally oriented reinforcing fibers and longitudinally extending reinforcing fibers. The back bar is also fashioned from fiber-reinforced composite material having a peripheral skin with bi-directionally oriented reinforcing fibers and longitudinally extending reinforcing fibers. Fiber-reinforced members include a foam core for shape retention. The manufacturing process permits use of T-shaped joints in fiber-reinforced structures.

Abstract: An attic opening cover and a process for forming the cover are provided. The cover includes a first composite end element including a protective layer bonded to a thermally insulating layer. A second composite end element is provided including a protective layer and a thermal insulating layer. A first composite side element is provided including a protective layer bonded to a thermal insulating layer. A second composite side element is provided including a protective layer bonded to a thermal insulating layer. A composite top element is provided including a protective layer bonded to a thermal insulating layer. A fastening arrangement is provided including fasteners extending through the first composite end element, fasteners extending through the second composite end element, fasteners extending through the first composite side element, fasteners extending through the second composite side element and fasteners extending through the composite top element.

Abstract: Openings such as those for attic staircases may be covered with a multipocket member having top, side, and end pockets in which insulation can be placed. The side pockets are of longer length than the top pocket. When the side and end pockets are pivoted downwardly from the top pocket and provided in box-like configuration, the insulation at the pivot edges is compressed thereby filling up these edges.

Abstract: A molded rectangular top component of a stepladder is disclosed which incorporates an improved method of securely supporting a bucket or paint can at the top of the ladder. A recess in a second wall of the laddertop corresponds to and accommodates the arcuate shape of the bail of a bucket, and a hook is attached at the lower portion of the recess, which has the beneficial effect of moving the weight closer to the center of the ladder than on a protruding hook. The ladder top includes at least one slot in a first wall which extends from the ladder top through which accessories can be attached. The first wall opposes the second wall.

Abstract: A ladder of the kind which comprises two elongated and vertically extending, rigid uprights, having axially extending recesses. A rung is provided having apertures defined by sleeves having uninterrupted inner surfaces, for receiving therethrough the uprights. An elongated split sleeve is provided having a protrusion on an inner edge for engaging with the axially extending recess of the upright. The split sleeve slides around and is coaxially aligned with the rigid upright. The arrangement of the ladder is simple to assemble, having few parts, which fit together without requiring additional bolting or securing.

Abstract: The invention is directed to strong, lightweight, electrically non-conducting ladder stiles and ladders formed therefrom. Each ladder stile comprises a tension and compression portion structurally interconnected by a spacing portion. The spacing portion has a cross section which varies over the length of the stile between sections where the entire spacing portion is the full width of the stile and sections where at least part of the spacing portion is less than the full width of the stile. The ladders of the invention are formed of two ladder stiles interconnected by rungs.

Abstract: A step ladder includes legs and a ladder top connected to the ladder legs. The ladder top is molded integrally from a polymer material and has an inverted-cup shape defined by a generally rectangular central web with a periphery and peripheral flanges extending generally down from the periphery. The web defines a platform of the ladder top on which articles such as tools and paint cans can be placed. The web has a pair of eye-loops protruding up from a plane common with the platform, these eye loops being spaced and arranged for removably receiving a pair of hooks on a conventional roller paint-pan so as to support the paint-pan on the top surface of the platform.

Abstract: An attic hatchway cover wherein a tent-like structure having side walls, a front wall, and a rear wall each having a flange structure are arranged to engage and for securement to a hatchway opening framework employing mounting strips, such that fastening structure secures each mounting strip to each associated flange and simultaneously to the framework. The top wall of the cover employs a flap member selectively securable to the top wall and displaceable therefrom by use of a generally U-shaped zipper to disengage the flap relative to the top wall.

Abstract: An insulating cover for an attic opening comprising a pair of telescoping male and female assemblies operable between a nested retracted position where they interengage and an extended position of a size to fit over the attic opening, each assembly comprising a top panel section, side panel sections depending from the top panel section and an end panel section along a closed end of the top panel section combined to form a hollow assembly and insulating material in the space of the hollow panel sections.

Abstract: The present invention provides an article which incorporates a jointed component, preferably a ladder, that includes a first member, a suitably aligned internal annuli, a second member, and a setting medium. The first member is formed of hollow section channel and has at least one socket in the form of a hole formed therein. The internal annuli is disposed within the first member and has opened ends aligned with the hole and splines extending within the annuli. The annuli also includes at least one angled flange disposed at one end of the annuli for receiving a portion of the setting medium. The second member is engaged within the annuli. The second member has a sealed end and is adapted to snugly fit into the socket. The setting medium is disposed between the end of the second member and the first member and between at least a portion of the interface between the second member and annuli.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a ladder. The ladder includes a first plastic side rail, at least a portion of which is hollow. The ladder also includes a second plastic side rail, at least a portion of which is hollow. The second side rail is in parallel with the first side rail. Additionally, the ladder includes a plurality of steps, each of which is attached to the first and second side rails at predetermined locations such that each step forms a flat weight bearing platform upon which a user can stand. The first and second side rails each have a plurality of pockets having solid cross sections disposed therealong at predetermined positions, and each of the steps are attached to the first and second side rails at corresponding pockets therein with fasteners through holes in the solid cross sections. The present invention also pertains to a stepladder. The stepladder includes a first side rail. The stepladder also includes a second side rail adjacent to and in parallel with the first side rail.

Abstract: A non-metallic ladder for use in a manhole in which permanent manhole steps have been installed and spaced relation from the top of the manhole to a position above the bottom and there being a pair of spaced side members on said ladder connected transversely by spaced steps to form corners at the top in which there are spaces to fit over a respective side members on the step. The spaces may be in the shape of a rectangular cross-section or other configuration. The ladder is "hung" from the step to resist dislodgment therefrom. There may be provided a wall bumper member at the bottom of the ladder to engage the inside wall of the manhole.

Abstract: An insulation-dome former adapted for receiving and retaining available thermal insulation materials within, and weather strip-type gasketing on the exterior surfaces of same for the purpose of use above a folding stair-type hatch opening where a common-type heat loss condition usually exists. A moisture barrier insert is used when moisture resistant materials for the dome former are not employed.

Abstract: A folding ladder comprising multiple ladder sections pivotally joined together to permit the ladder to be articulated into and locked in a variety of configurations. Each ladder section includes a pair of side rails and a plurality of spaced rungs. The ladder end sections are identical and interchangeable. The ladder middle sections are identical and interchangeable. All side rails are reinforced by steel rods. The ladder sections are hinged together at their ends along one side of the ladder by master-type pivots and are hinged together at their ends along the opposite side of the ladder by slave-type pivots. Master pivots may be adjusted to a first position allowing the ladder sections to be moved with a detenting action and to a second position locking the ladder sections together in a selected position. Slave pivots follow the action of the master pivots, allowing all ladder adjustments to be made from one side.

Abstract: A single run or extension ladder particularly suitable for use where electrical safety is significant. Stiles 6 are each formed from a pair of elongate hollow members 5 fabricated from glass-fibre material. Rung supports 7 are formed from an aluminium extrusion comprising a pair of piped edge sections 8 separated by a pair of webs 9 in the nature of a box-section 10. The elongate members 5 extend through and are attached to the edge sections 8 by an adhesive. The rung supports 7 thus space the elongate members 5 adjacently apart to form a stile 6. The ends of rungs 12 are mounted in laterally aligning apertures 14 in the webs 9, the end of a rung 12 being crimped back onto an outer of the webs 9. End caps or feet 16 are provided on the stiles 6. An extension ladder is formed in conventional manner, to that end, saddles 18 telescopically captivate a pair of such single run ladders together.

Abstract: A dismountable ladder for use with transom, swim or dive platforms having a pair of similarly shaped vertical upper side members. The upper end of each upper side member is formed as a U-shaped hook for releasably receiving a portion of a transom, swim or dive platform. The lower end of each upper side member has an opening. Additionally, a horizontal upper step member is releasably coupled within the opening in the lower ends of the upper side members. Finally, screws are provided for securing the upper step member to the upper side members through screw holes of the upper side members and upper step member.

Abstract: An effective riser reducer step device is provided, which consists of a mechanism placed upon a tread of a step of a staircase for reducing the height of a riser of the step. Another mechanism is for moving the riser height reducing mechanism to the tread of each successive step of the staircase, so that a physically impaired person suffering from atrophy, back and leg problems can ascend and descend the steps of the staircase.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a plastic ladder. The plastic ladder includes a front section which has a first hollow side rail and a second hollow side rail disposed essentially in parallel with the first side rail. The first and second side rails are made of plastic and have reinforced pockets disposed along the respective rails at predetermined locations. The plastic ladder also has a plurality of hollow plastic steps. Each of the steps is attached to the first and second rails at corresponding reinforced pockets therein such that each step forms a flat weight bearing platform upon which a user can stand. Each step has blow molded tread patterns which provide a slip resistant surface. The ladder also has a rear section comprised of a third hollow plastic side rail and a fourth hollow plastic side rail disposed essentially in parallel with the third hollow plastic side rail.

Abstract: An attic hatchway cover wherein a tent-like structure having side walls, a front wall, and a rear wall each having a flange structure are arranged to engage and for securement to a hatchway opening framework employing mounting strips, such that fastening structure secures each mounting strip to each associated flange and simultaneously to the framework. .[.The.]. .Iadd.In a preferred embodiment, the .Iaddend.top wall of the cover employs a flap member selectively securable to the top wall and displaceable therefrom by use of a generally U-shaped zipper to disengage the flap relative to the top wall.