Abstract: A staircase system (2) includes a rail element (40) and multiple stair elements (42). Baluster elements (44) are coupled to the rail element (40) and to the stair elements (42). A center support system (46) is coupled to and supports the rail element (40) and the stair elements (42). The center support system (46) has a stowed state and a deployed state.

Abstract: A deployable boom is constructed of springly flexible members so that it is self-biased toward a long length deployed state. A drive mechanism is operative to actuate a reel and lanyard device to retract the boom to a short length storage state and to controllably permit the boom to be extended to its long length deployed state. Latches are operated by the drive mechanism to releasably hold the boom in the short length storage state.

Abstract: A telescoping, extensible fire escape chute is mounted on a vehicle carrying a telescoping boom having a passenger basket mounted at an upper end. The fire escape chute is formed of a plurality of telescoping sections which automatically extend and retract upon extension or retraction of the telescoping boom. Support cables under variable tension are attached to the sides of the chute to prevent sideways tipping of the chute during use. A deflatable cushion is mountable on the vehicle below the lower end of the chute and includes a plurality of vertically stacked inflatable members which, during deflation when a person or object strikes the cushion, gradually slow movement of the person or object in a controlled manner.

Abstract: A telescopic boom arrangement comprises an innermost member, a plurality of intermediate tubular sections 12, and an outermost tubular member, each nested together, the arrangement being adapted so that sequential erection of the members from a stowed position is ensured, commencing with the innermost member, progressing with the next outer member and so on. Each intermediate member includes latching means 24 which serve both to lock the next inner member in a stowed position and to lock that member in an extended position. Unlatching of the latch means 24 of an intermediate member to allow extension of the next inner member is effected by fingers 23 on the next-but-one inner member when that member approaches its extended position. When the next inner member reaches its extended position, it is locked by means of latching means 24 engaging slot 25.

Abstract: A device is described which provides egress for persons trapped in burning buildings. The invention comprises a portable supportive base structure having attached thereto a plurality of interconnected channel members which are manually extended to reach the upper levels of multi-storied buildings wherein trapped victims of fire may be located. Winches attached to the device enable an operator to position the extendable members in front of an upper level window whereupon the person being removed enters a personnel receptacle attached to the terminal end of the final extendable member and is thereupon lowered safely to the ground.

Abstract: A linkage bridge consisting of a plurality of links rotatably coupled to form an elongated structural platform, each having a rotational stop to form an elongated structural platform and being rotatably coupled for being taken up and carried by a reel which can be mounted on a truck bed, for example. Each of the link members having a bracket on the bottom side thereof for the passage through of a structural rod when the links are paid out in a linear platform configuration. The links at the reel end being passed through a structural guide for lending further structural strength and rigidity thereto.