Abstract: The invention is directed to a coupling arrangement for changing a compon on a block of a hoist which is fitted with a rotary drive. The coupling arrangement has an upper part which remains on the block and which has a latching mechanism for accommodating a lower part. Each tool or component which is to be coupled to the block has a lower part which can be coupled and latched together with the upper part so that by changing the lower part, it is possible to change the component. In order to achieve a reliable and rapid remote exchange of a component on a hoist, the upper part is configured as a hollow cylindrical part which is provided with a bottom wall. The bottom wall has a central aperture from which extend two radial slots. The hollow cylinder and the lower wall conjointly define a housing for the latching mechanisms which are disposed at about 90.degree. in relation to corresponding ones of the radial slots.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a remotely-operable positioning and carrier aratus for remote-handling equipment for use in large-area cells containing process components. The apparatus is mounted on a lifting device of an overhead bridge crane. The apparatus achieves good positioning of the particular remote-handling equipment even at locations which are poorly accessible. The apparatus includes a horizontal beam which is fixed at an eccentric position thereon to the bottom sheave unit of the lifting device so that the horizontal beam defines a long lever arm and a short lever arm. A receiving lever is pivotally connected to the end of the longer lever arm. The receiving lever has an equipment receiving device at its free end. A displaceable counterweight is arranged on the short lever arm for altering the position of the center of gravity of the apparatus. This apparatus makes it possible also to operate in spaces beneath components present in a rack.

Abstract: The invention is directed to an apparatus for remote-controlled connection nd disconnection of threaded bolts in a flange joint located in a radioactively-ladened cell. The apparatus includes a remotely controllable impact wrench carrying an extension shaft which is driven by the output shaft of the wrench. As a means of pulling the threaded bolts out of the through bores passing through the rear flange when a flange joint is being disconnected, a magnetic coil is arranged around the extension shaft. A voltage is applied to the coil thereby developing a magnetic force for holding the threaded bolts in the socket thereby permitting the threaded bolts to be moved away from the flange with the impact wrench.