Abstract: A mechanical load fuse assembly, particularly designed for lifting cables used with helicopters, consists of first and second end assemblies. An axial shear pin is releasably secured between the first and second end assemblies; and this shear pin is calibrated to have a breaking point of a pre-established amount when axial forces are applied to it. A protective sleeve is located over the shear pin between the first and second end assemblies when the shear pin is releasably secured. This protective sleeve has first and second positions of operation. A coil spring is used to normally bias the protective sleeve to the first position. In this position, radially projecting pins on the first and second end assemblies engage corresponding slots on the protective sleeve to prevent relative rotation of the first and second end assemblies relative to one another, so long as the sleeve is in the first position.

Abstract: A highrise fire escape device gravity operated and particularly adaptable for use in highrise building and modern skyscraper structures as an escape apparatus from any floor of a building for use in the rescue of an occupant who may be trapped and prevented from using the conventional stairways or elevator due to a natural or man-made disaster such as fire, electrical or power failure, building collapse or personal injury of the occupants, etc.The apparatus or device comprises the combination of a vertical skid track member attached to the wall of a building with a skid which is inserted into a guide channel located in the track. The skid track is designed to be attached to either a new or existing building with access to the skid track being available at the outside of the building at predetermined locations, such as, building corners or a plurality of locations intermediate to the corners between the building windows so as not to impede the architecture design of the building.