Roofmates™ roofing accessories
A number of roofing accessories, including a lightweight adjustable ladder and scaffold support are disclosed. The scaffold support includes a pair of rails at the standard spacing of most roof joists. Rods, connected to the rails, support an adjustable platform. An apparatus is also provided for supporting loads of materials or supplies on an inclined roof, using components and parts in common with the scaffold support, or components and parts similar thereto. A tool tray is provided which may be backed with a layer of foam to prevent the tray from slipping off the roof, while allowing the tray to be freely moved along and up and down the roof, as work progresses. In another embodiment of the present invention, a cooling system is provided to spray water on the face and neck area of an individual.
The present application is a DIVISIONAL of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/388,642, filed on Mar. 20, 2003, which in turn is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/050,964, filed on Nov. 18, 2003, both of which are incorporated herein by reference.
The present application is also a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/691,987, filed on Oct. 23, 2003, which is incorporated herein by reference.
Parent application Ser. No. 10/388,642 also claims priority from Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 60/365,538, filed on Mar. 20, 2002, and incorporated herein by reference.
Parent application Ser. No. 10/388,642 also claims priority from Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 60/426,808, filed on Nov. 18, 2002, and incorporated herein by reference.
Parent Application Ser. No. 10,050,964 also claims priority from the following Provisional Patent Applications, all of which are incorporated herein by reference: Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 60/262,650, filed on Jan. 22, 2001; Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 60/286,527, filed on Apr. 27, 2001; Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 60/297,530; and Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 60/304,098, filed on Jul. 11, 2001.
FIELD OF THE INVENTIONThe present invention relates to the field of residential and commercial roofing. In particular, the present invention relates to a number of scaffolds, platforms, tools, and accessories for use in pitched roof construction as well as an apparatus for securing ladders and other devices to a ladder rack, luggage rack, or other type of vehicle accessory rack. The present application also is directed toward a user wearable cooling device for spraying water onto a user. The present application is also directed toward an integrated sunglasses and headgear, and various roofing scaffolding supports and other roofing accessories. The present application is also directed toward an air-powered saw for use in cutting shingles for ridgelines and the like. The present application is also directed toward a number of accessories and tools for use by a roofer or other construction worker.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONSafety in pitched roof construction has been an ever increasing concern. An alarming number of construction site accidents are due to falls from pitched roofs by workmen, or injuries sustained by workmen when roofing materials (shingles, felt, nails, flashing, compounds, sealants, and the like) or tools (hammer, nail guns, water jugs, and the like) fall from a roof onto workers or passersby below.
One of the basic difficulties in roof work is transporting the materials up to the roof and storing them there until needed. Typically, roofers will load most, if not all, of the roofing materials onto the roof surface before beginning work. In the past, this may have been accomplished by the use of ladder elevators (e.g., laddervator). However, in new home and large scale construction, a crane or large forklift may be used to transfer entire pallets of roofing material to the roof level upon delivery. Thus, large quantities of shingles, tiles, slates, or the like, may need to be stored on the roof prior to installation.
In some recorded instances, entire pallets or “squares” of roofing materials (e.g., shingles) have fallen off pitched roofs onto the ground below. If a fellow workman or passerby is below when such a large amount of material falls, serious injury or even death can occur. In addition, although probably less hazardous, workers and passersby below are also in danger of serious injury from falling tools, hammers, and smaller amounts of roofing materials and the like. As a result of such accidents, residential as well as commercial roofers are finding increased scrutiny from insurance companies and government agencies (e.g., OSHA).
In addition to such obvious safety concerns, government agencies and insurance companies are seeing more claims of injuries due to repetitive stress disorders (e.g., carpal tunnel syndrome). In the roofing industry, such stresses can occur as a roofer may be forced to reach in one extreme direction (e.g., downward to a scaffold walkboard) to retrieve shingles, tools, or nails, and then reach in another extreme direction (e.g. upward) to secure the shingle to the roof.
In addition to causing stress on the body, such a work environment is inefficient, as such long reaches increase the time needed to install shingles and more readily fatigue the roofer. Moreover, extended reaches may put the roofer at increase risk of falling due to loss of balance and the like. Roofing materials and tools may be more likely to fall off a roof if a roofer has to stretch to reach them.
In the Prior Art, primitive techniques have been used in an attempt to secure materials and persons on a roof. For example, a short length of 2″ by 4″ wood may be nailed to a roof to provide temporary support for a ladder, materials, or a roofer. Such a primitive technique, commonly used, provides very little purchase for the roofer or materials to rest upon. In addition, it may take time at the jobsite for the roofer to secure such scrap lumber, cut it to size, measure for nail spacing, and install.
A number of Patents have been issued which describe various apparatus in the Prior Art for correcting the deficiencies noted above. However, most, if not all, of these attempts have failed in one or more ways, and none of these patented invention appear to have been commercially successful or readily available in the marketplace. Most of these schemes utilize unnecessarily complicated apparatus, which is too costly for the average roofer to afford, to heavy to lift to the jobsite, and to cumbersome to work with.
For example, Eisenmenger, U.S. Pat. No. 5,601,154, issued Feb. 11, 1997, discloses a portable suspended roof scaffold system. Eisenmenger uses a specialized apparatus (See
Moreover, the ladder, once secured, covers a substantial portion of the roof being worked on. Since shingles are generally installed in horizontal rows, the ladder of Eisenmenger necessarily covers a portion of each row at all times (See,
Bitner, U.S. Pat. No. 5,979,600, issued Nov. 9, 1999, discloses a leveling roof platform support. The Bitner device is an improvement over using a nailed-in 2″ by 4″ and much less complex than the Eisenmenger device. However, it appears that Bitner is limited to a device for supporting a walk-board or plank, and does not explicitly provide support for ladders, tools, supplies, or roofing materials. In addition, the Bitner device utilizes a fairly complex and expensive screw-jack leveling system to provide infinite adjustment of angle. While the screw-jack system may provide more levels of adjustment, it does so at the expense of added cost and complexity. Moreover, the screw-jack of Bitner does not appear to be sufficient to support large loads (e.g., square of shingles). No method of locking the screw jack into place appears to be present.
Thus, it remains a requirement in the art to provide a simple, flexible, lightweight, safe, and inexpensive system for supporting persons, ladders, roofing supplies, shingles, tools, and accessories on an inclined roof without covering up large portions of the roof with such a device.
Miller, U.S. Pat. No. 6,170,222, issued Jan. 9, 2001, discloses a foam rubber wedge pad for placing shingles on a roof. As the pad is made entirely of foam rubber, it may be difficult to grip (no handles). Moreover, the foam pad does not provide storage for small items such as nails or tools.
In addition to the above problems in the Prior Art, injuries have occurred when ladders and scaffolding set up for roof and other work are not properly secured and as a result, fall down. OSHA requires that ladders be “tied-off” prior to work commencing. However, oftentimes a convenient and easy way to tie off a ladder (e.g., to a gutter) is not present, particularly with regard to roofing work.
Thus, it remains a further requirement in the art to provide a safe, easy, convenient, and inexpensive way to allow ladders and scaffolds to be readily attached to a housing or other structure prior to work commencing.
In addition, safety in transporting roofing and construction ladders, as well as other items is also important. An aluminum ladder flying off a construction truck can cause great bodily injury or even death on a crowded superhighway. Such dangers pose huge liabilities for construction companies which may be ultimately responsible for the actions of their employees.
Moreover, securing any load to a vehicle present safety problems. Most commercial over-the road truckers have rather elaborate straps and chains to secure loads. However contractors and homeowners have relied upon straps, ropes and even strings, to secure loads to their vehicles, with limited success and sometimes disastrous results.
Many contractors will leave ladders entirely unsecured on ladder racks, or use only a token string or rope to secure them. In addition to being unsafe, ropes and strings are difficult to tie and untie. Straps (since or ratchet) are one solution, however, they are generally provided with large rubber hooks which may slip on a ladder or luggage rack or may be difficult to secure.
Homeowners may attempt to use luggage racks supplied with their vehicles, or commercially available racks, such as the THULE® or YAKIMA® racks to secure objects to their vehicles. However, the YAKIMA® and THULE® racks may be highly specialized in their purposes and thus require an enormous amount of accessories in order to secure various items. Moreover, accessories for one rack (e.g., YAKIMA®, which uses round tubing) may not fit another rack (e.g., THULE®, which uses square tubing). Luggage racks supplied with cars generally are of little use and provide few or no places for tie-downs or the like.
When installing roofing materials, it is often necessary to cut shingles either before installation, or in situ. For example, when building a roof “Valley”, shingles may be installed over the valley, and then later cut to the valley “V” shape. Traditionally, a knife has been used for such cuts. However, there is little precision in depth of cut with a knife, and in addition, such a cut can be laborious and difficult. Too deep a cut may create roof leaks.
Power tools are generally not well suited to cutting shingles. Most are heavy and require electrical power. In addition, large power tools present a hazard to workers below if they fall off the roof. What is needed is a small powered tool which can cut shingles accurately and cleanly.
Stein, U.S. Pat. No. 5,715,533, issued Feb. 10, 1998, and incorporated herein by reference, discloses a hat with a coolant supply. Coolant may be fed through the hat to wet the hat, which, through the process of evaporation, supposedly cools the head of the wearer. While the Stein hat may provide some cooling, particularly in dry climates, in many more humid climates, it may provide little more than a wet hat. Also note the limited size of the fluid reservoir in the Stein hat.
McPherson, U.S. Pat. No. 5,197,292, issued Mar. 30, 1993 and incorporated herein by reference, discloses a cooling cap for athletes. In McPherson, a chamber is provided to retain a fluid (e.g., icewater) which is allowed to transmit to the head of the wearer. The McPherson system allows liquid to pass to the head of the wearer and also allows ice water to be used, which can provide additional cooling over that of Stein. However, the McPherson design still passes water through the hat, which may result it little more than a wet hat, and little cooling.
In both the Stein and McPherson patents, the reservoir size for water or icewater is limited in size. Thus, even if these devices provide any substantial cooling to the wearer, they need to be replenished on a regular basis. What is needed in the art is a system which can provide extended cooling capabilities for a user and additional cooling capacity beyond the limited capabilities of McPherson and Stein.
In the roofing, siding, and construction arts, pump jacks are known in the art. A pair of pump jack poles may be placed on the ground and fixed to a structure. A scaffold-type walk board is attached to pump jacks, one at each pole, and the scaffold board assembly may be moved up and down the pump jack poles by means of pumping with the foot, for example. Such pump jack systems are well known in the art.
However, there are safety concerns with such systems. In particular, if the pump jack poles are not securely fastened to the ground or building, the entire assembly can tip over, causing injury or death to workers on the scaffold board or working below. In the Prior Art, workers merely place the pump jack poles on the ground without securing the poles in any way. Loose or compactable soil may allow the pump jack poles to sink or shift. Uneven or sloped terrain may cause the pump jack poles to move laterally. A means of securing pump jack poles remains a requirement in the art.
Roofing tools are always at a risk of falling off a roof, especially an inclined roof. In addition to the inconvenience of having to retrieve such tools and possible damage to a tool from such a fall, there is the hazard that such tools present to workers below. Nailguns and the like present an additional hazard in that they may go off when they hit the ground and further injure other workers or passersby. A means for preventing tools from falling off roofs is still a requirement in the art.
Mounting a ladder to an inclined roofing surface can be dangerous. If the ladder is not securely fastened to the roof, it may slide off, taking the user with it. Devices are known for holding a ladder on an inclined roof. For example, the so-called “J-hook” may be attached to a ladder and hooked over the peak of a roof to prevent the ladder from sliding off the roof. However, such a technique requires that the ladder be put onto the roof surface first, and slid all the way to the top. The roofer must either try to push the ladder up from the bottom, or climb to the peak using other means and then pull the ladder up.
For large roofs, or roofs with compound or unusual peak configurations, the J-hook may not be suitable for use. In addition, such ladders may need to be frequently moved or adjusted to allow work to progress, as they may get in the way of the work area. Thus, a need in the art exists for a ladder system for use on inclined roofs which does not require that the roofer first ascend the roof. In addition, a need exists in the art for a ladder system which may be flexible so as to allow a roofer to work on the roof surface without frequently relocating the ladder.
When installing roofing materials, it is often necessary to cut shingles either before installation, or in situ. For example, when building a roof “Valley”, shingles may be installed over the valley, and then later cut to the valley “V” shape. In addition, when finishing a roof, it is often necessary to cut the shingles along the edge of the roof to provide a uniform appearing edge. These shingles may be 3 or more layers thick in some places, dulling traditional knives and saws quickly.
Traditionally, a knife has been used for such cuts. However, there is little precision in depth of cut with a knife, and in addition, such a cut can be laborious and difficult. Too deep a cut may create roof leaks. Power saws and the like are difficult to use as the saw may require an extension cord on the roof and also the blade may not be well suited for cutting shingles (i.e., it will “load up” with tar and other materials and cease to cut well). In addition, large power tools present a hazard to workers below if they fall off the roof. What is needed is a small powered tool which can cut shingles accurately and cleanly.
Roofing tools are always at a risk of falling off a roof, especially an inclined roof. In addition to the inconvenience of having to retrieve such tools and possible damage to a tool from such a fall, there is the hazard that such tools present to workers below. Nailguns and the like present an additional hazard in that they may go off when they hit the ground and further injure other workers or passersby. A means for preventing tools from falling off roofs is still a requirement in the art.
Mounting a ladder to an inclined roofing surface can be dangerous. If the ladder is not securely fastened to the roof, it may slide off, taking the user with it. Devices are known for holding a ladder on an inclined roof. For example, the so-called “J-hook” may be attached to a ladder and hooked over the peak of a roof to prevent the ladder from sliding off the roof. However, such a technique requires that the ladder be put onto the roof surface first, and slid all the way to the top. The roofer must either try to push the ladder up from the bottom, or climb to the peak using other means and then pull the ladder up.
For large roofs, or roofs with compound or unusual peak configurations, the J-hook may not be suitable for use. In addition, such ladders may need to be frequently moved or adjusted to allow work to progress, as they may get in the way of the work area. Thus, a need in the art exists for a ladder system for use on inclined roofs which does not require that the roofer first ascend the roof. In addition, a need exists in the art for a ladder system which may be flexible so as to allow a roofer to work on the roof surface without frequently relocating the ladder.
Properly installed flashing is necessary for almost all roofing jobs. Flashing that is poorly installed, bent, wrinkled, or the like, can cause leaks and detract from the appearance of a finished roof. Flashing is typically sold in copper or aluminum rolls of material. A roofer may have a roll of such material in the back of his truck. Unfortunately, the material may roll around in the truck, and moreover, workers may drop tools on it and the like. As a result, a roofer may be forced to throw away many half-used rolls of flashing material, as the material may be damaged by such rough handling. In addition, measuring and cutting such material may be awkward and difficult when handling an open roll of flashing or the like. A need exists in the art for a means of handling, storing, measuring and cutting such rolls of flashing.
Laying a ladder on a roof can be problematic as well. One problem with roofing jobs in general is that when roofers step on a completed roof surface, lay tools upon it, or drag materials, ladders, scaffolding, or the like, the roof surface may be marred, particularly in warm weather when the asphalt in the asphalt shingles may be soft. Such marring may disappear after a few days, weeks, or months, or may be permanent. In any event, it presents a problem in that homeowners may perceive such marring as roofing damage and complain to the roofer, causing much difficulty, as such marring may be impossible to repair other than to re-roof the entire house.
Ladders laid against surfaces can slide and fall, causing injury. When using a pump jack and scaffold, a worker may be tempted to climb up and down from the scaffold using a ladder laid against the pump jack pole, rather than using the pump jack to raise and lower the entire scaffold. A ladder laid against a narrow object such as a pump jack pole may tend to wobble and tip, which can cause the ladder (and worker) to fall.
Moving materials up and down a roof surface is difficult, particularly with heavy materials such as roofing tile. Laddervaters are known to get materials up to a roof surface, but laddervaters cannot be used to move materials around the roof surface itself. When removing tiles from a roof, for example, it can be cumbersome and dangerous to walk across the roof surface carrying such tiles. A means for moving such materials up and down a roof surface is required.
Placing a ladder on uneven ground will inevitably result int he ladder being unstable or tipping over. Using blocks of wood or the like to level a ladder is dangerous, awkward, and cumbersome. A means for automatically levelling a ladder is required in the art to provide a stable base for ladder support.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONThe present invention comprises a number of embodiments of apparatus for use in working on an inclined roofing surface, for supporting persons, ladders, scaffolding, tools, roofing materials, shingles, supplies, and accessories. All of the embodiments of the present invention may be marketed under the umbrella name of ROOFMATES™, a trademark of the inventor.
In one embodiment, a lightweight adjustable ladder and scaffold support is provided which may be marketed under the name GABLEMASTER™, a trademark of the inventor. A pair of rails are provided, spaced approximately 24 inches apart, the standard spacing of most roof joists. Connected to the rails through suitable holes and slots, are rods supporting an adjustable platform. One of the rods may be placed through a corresponding slot to achieve a suitable angle of adjustment corresponding to roof incline.
The platform may be provided with a number of aluminum beams drilled with suitable holes, spaced apart and shaped so as to accept the leg of a standard extension ladder or siding jack. Bolts or pins may be passed through the holes to secure the ladder or jack to the platform. In addition, the platform may support a walking board, scaffold, or the like.
In another embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus is provided for supporting loads of materials or supplies on an inclined roof. The apparatus of this embodiment of the present invention may use components and parts in common with other embodiments of the present invention, or components and parts similar thereto.
In this embodiment, a lightweight adjustable material and supply support is provided which may be marketed under the name ROOFSTOCKER™, a trademark of the inventor. A pair (or more) rails are provided, adjustably spaced to fit the standard spacing of most roof joists. Connected to the rails through suitable holes and slots, are rods supporting an adjustable platform. One of the rods may be placed through a corresponding slot to achieve a suitable angle of adjustment corresponding to roof incline.
The platform may be provided as a planar table, with one or more edge rails to prevent materials from falling off the platform. The platform may be sized to accommodate a standard package size of shingles or a shingle “square”. Roofing materials stored on a roof may be stored on the platform in a level manner and thus reduce the likelihood that such materials will fall off. Smaller versions of the platform may be provided for holding tools and the like, and specialized version may be provided for specific applications such as holding a 5-gallon IGLOO™ water cooler.
In such a specialized version, the apparatus may be mounted to a plate which is backed with a one-inch layer of foam. The foam may grip the uneven roof surface sufficiently that no nailing, or only a safety nail is required, allowing the unit to be moved freely along the roof.
In another embodiment of ROOFSTOCKER™, two channels having U-shaped cross-sections may be provided, each with an adjustable support pole. Connected to the support poles though a pivot joint is an adjustable platform which has its other end hinged to the channels. The support or poles may be adjusted to achieve a suitable angle of adjustment corresponding to roof incline.
In another embodiment of ROOFSTOCKER™, a U-shaped backing plate is provided with a one or more adjustable support poles. Connected to the support pole though a pivot joint is an adjustable platform which has its other end hinged to the backing plate. The support pole (or poles) may be adjusted to achieve a suitable angle of adjustment corresponding to roof incline.
In another embodiment of the present invention, which may be marketed under the name ROOFER'S TOOLBOX™, a trademark of the inventor, a tool tray is provided which may be backed with a layer of foam to prevent the tray from slipping off the roof, while allowing the tray to be freely moved along and up and down the roof, as work progresses.
The tool tray may comprise a flat lower portion backed with a layer of medium density expanded polyurethane foam, the type commonly sold for upholstery in upholstery and fabric shops. A number of compartments may be provided in the tray for holding nails, shingles, tubes of roofing compound, tools, and the like. A specialized version may be provided for slate work and marketed under the name SLATEMATES™, a trademark of the present inventor.
In yet another embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus is provided to allow ladders and scaffolds to be readily attached to a structure or the like. A clamp is provided which may be bolted to a ladder leg or the like. A rotatable arm is provided attached to the clamp at one end and having a nailing plate attached at the other. In use, the device may be clamped to the ladder leg without any need for drilling or otherwise altering the ladder structure. The other end may be nailed or screw-gunned into a joist, truss, beam, or other structural surface to secure the ladder. The apparatus may have particular use when ladders are used on roofs and uneven or inclined surfaces are present.
In addition, the present invention provides a number of different embodiments of tools, accessories, tie-offs, and braces for use in roofing. In another embodiment, a tie-off called SURETETHER™ is provided to allow roofers to secure safety harnesses and ropes.
In another embodiment of the present invention, called SUREFOOTS™, an apparatus is provided to allow ladders and scaffolds to be readily attached to a structure or the like. A clamp is provided which may be bolted to a ladder leg or the like. A rotatable arm is provided attached to the clamp at one end and having a nailing plate attached at the other. In use, the device may be clamped to the ladder leg without any need for drilling or otherwise altering the ladder structure. The other end may be nailed or screw-gunned into a joist, truss, beam, or other structural surface to secure the ladder. The apparatus may have particular use when ladders are used on roofs and uneven or inclined surfaces are present.
In another embodiment of the present invention, a lightweight adjustable ladder and scaffold support is provided which may be marketed under the name GABLEMASTER™, a trademark of the inventor. A pair of rails are provided, spaced approximately 24 inches apart (or adjustably spaced) to fit the standard spacing of most roof joists. Connected to the rails through suitable holes and slots, are rods supporting an adjustable platform. One of the rods may be placed through a corresponding slot to achieve a suitable angle of adjustment corresponding to roof incline.
The platform may be provided with a number of aluminum beams drilled with suitable holes, spaced apart and shaped so as to accept the leg of a standard extension ladder or siding jack. Bolts or pins may be passed through the holes to secure the ladder or jack to the platform. In addition, the platform may support a walking board, scaffold, or the like.
In another embodiment of the present invention, a bracket for holding a ladder on a sloped roof is provided. Ladder legs may be locked into the bracket using pins, bolts, or the like, such that the ladder will not fall off the sloped roof. This invention has particular application when a roofer needs to climb an existing roof to the peak when no safety rope, guide wire, scaffolding, or ladder is in place. The bracket may be nailed to the roof, a ladder slid up the roof and the bottom of the ladder secured to the ladder bracket.
In another embodiment of the present invention, a jack post roof rack holder is provided as a variation on one invention set forth in related Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 60/297,530 filed on Jun. 13, 2001. In this embodiment of the present invention, a clamp is provided which may be mounted to a truck ladder rack, car luggage rack, or the like. The clamp may be lined with compressible foam rubber so as to securely grip various rack channel cross-sections without slipping. The use of the foam rubber allows the apparatus to be made for a number of different rack styles.
In another embodiment of this invention, a clamp is provided which may be mounted to a truck ladder rack, car luggage rack, or the like. The clamp may be lined with compressible foam rubber so as to securely grip various rack channel cross-sections without slipping. The use of the foam rubber allows the apparatus to be made for a number of different rack styles.
A draw-tight or ratchet strap may be mounted to the clamp to secure a ladder or other object to the roof rack. Hooks for the strap may thus not be required. In addition, the strap may be locked to prevent loosening of the strap or petty theft or borrowing of the objects secured to the strap.
In an alternative embodiment of the ladder brace set forth in Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 60/262,650 filed on Jan. 22, 2001, and Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 60/286,527 filed on Apr. 27, 2001, a version of the SUREFOOT™ invention is provided with a threaded leg portion.
In an alternative embodiment of one invention set forth in related Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 60/286,527 filed on Apr. 27, 2001, a tie-off called Sure-Tether is provided to allow roofers to secure safety harnesses and ropes.
In an alternative embodiment of one invention set forth in related Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 60/297,530 filed on Jun. 13, 2001, the ladder rack apparatus is adapted for use in securing ladders to houses and the like.
In yet another alternative embodiment of one invention set forth in repled Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 60/297,530 filed on Jun. 13, 2001, a lightweight adjustable scaffold board support is provided. In this variation, a single channel having U-shaped cross-section may be provided, each with an adjustable support pole. Connected to the support pole though a pivot joint is an adjustable support channel which has its other end hinged to single channel. The support pole may be adjusted to achieve a suitable angle of adjustment corresponding to roof incline. A number of these devices may be used to support a scaffold board on a roof by means of a scaffold securing clip.
Another embodiment of the present invention, SHINGLESAW™, comprises a pneumatically powered miniaturized reciprocating or circular saw designed especially for roofing applications. In an alternative embodiment, SHINGLESAW™ may be powered by rechargeable battery packs or the like. SHINGLESAW™ is the size and shape of a Prior Art razor knife, but is powered and provided with a depth gauge to prevent cutting through roofing underlayment or the like.
In another embodiment known as SHINGLESTOCKER™, a small, lightweight movable wedge is provided with a foam backing. When wedged under a shingle or nailed to a roof, the SHINGLESTOCKER™ can be used to prevent bundles of shingles from falling off roofs.
In another embodiment of the SURETETHER™ an adjustable strap is provided which may be used to tie-off safety harnesses used by roofers. The straps are lightweight and inexpensive to use.
In another embodiment of the present invention, a cooling system is provided to spray water on the face and neck area of an individual. A large liquid reservoir, which may be molded to the shape of the back, is provided with a pressure pump. The reservoir may be pressurized to force liquid through a flexible tube. Spray or misting nozzles may be provided to spray the user's head and neck area to provide cooling. A valve may be provided to allow the user to control the flow rate and/or turn the apparatus on or off.
In another embodiment of the present invention, a single channel having U-shaped cross-section may be provided, each with an adjustable support pole. Connected to the support pole though a pivot joint is an adjustable support channel which has its other end hinged to single channel. The support pole may be adjusted to achieve a suitable angle of adjustment corresponding to roof incline. A number of these devices may be used to support scaffold brackets on inclined roof surfaces.
In another embodiment of the present invention, another “soft” version of the SUREFOOT™ invention of applicant, a strap may be secured around an object, such as a tree or utility pole or the like.
In another embodiment of the present invention, a device may be attached to a ladder leg and placed or nailed to a roof, wall or other surface (either at the top or bottom of the ladder). In addition, the device may be used by attaching to the bottom of a ladder to steady the ladder as an extra leg, or to act as a ladder stabilizer. In addition, the device may be used to hold a ladder away from a wall to prevent gutters form being crushed.
In another embodiment, a SUREFOOT™ apparatus is provided which may be attached to the foot of a ladder. In use, the apparatus is attached to the pivoting foot of an aluminum ladder or the like. The apparatus rests between the ladder and the floor, preventing the ladder from marring the floor surface and distributing the weight of the ladder and user over a broader area. In addition, the foam acts as a non-slip anti-skid device, to prevent the ladder from moving or slipping. When used on a stairway or against a wall, a bent lip portion may rest against the stair riser or wall baseboard to prevent marring of these surfaces.
In another embodiment, a roof ladder is provided. The roof ladder may be provided in one or more sections and may be supported from the bottom of the roof by a roof ladder bracket. As shingling progresses, for example, the roof ladder bracket may be installed at the bottom. Additional, lightweight sections may then be added as the shingling progresses up the roof. A scaffold board or the like may be attached to the roof ladder using brackets and the like as is known in the art. Individual sections of roof ladder may be attached to one another like sections of railroad track, using suitable fasteners.
In another embodiment, a means is provided to prevent roofing tools from sliding off a roof. A piece of resilient foam may be attached to a tool surface using Velcro™ fasteners. The resilient foam prevents the tool from sliding, and the use of Velcro™ allows the foam to be renewed.
In another embodiment, a pump jack mounting device is provided to secure a pump jack pole to the ground. A cup-like sleeve is provided with a hole the bottom for receiving a ground spike. A portion of the sleeve may be removed to facilitate driving the ground spike into the ground. Once secured to the ground, the removable portion of the sleeve is reinserted and a pump jack pole inserted into the sleeve. In an alternative version of this ninth embodiment, an adjustable angle plate is provided for securing the sleeve to the ground on sloped or uneven terrains.
In another embodiment of the present invention, a ROOFER'S SAWHORSE™ is provided to allow a roofer or other construction worker to support materials on a uneven surface such as a roof.
In another embodiment of the present invention, an improved SUREFOOT ladder attachment device is disclosed.
In another embodiment of the present invention, a sweat-proof sunglasses/eyeglasses device is provided.
In another embodiment of the present invention, a water cooler with an adjustable base for use on a roof or other slanted surface is provided.
In another embodiment, known as ROOFMISTER™, a water tank and pump may be provided on the ground, fed to one or more misting nozzles mounted on a rooftop.
In another embodiment, a battery or solar powered cooling fan and mister is provided with a built-in water tank and roof mount.
In another embodiment, a radial fan powered by 110 Volts or the like, may be used in an adjustable platform, provided with a mist spray fed by a ground mounted tank.
In another embodiment, a ROOFWINCH™ is provided to allow a roofer or other worker to lift materials and pump jack poles up to a roof.
In another embodiment, the FLASHING MASTER™ is provided to allow for clean, accurate cutting of flashing and other types of sheet metal for roofing or other applications.
In another embodiment of the present invention, a variation on applicant's ROOFLADDER™ is provided. In this invention, a ladder may be provided with a foam backing and/or nailing blocks to allow the ladder to be nailed to roof trusses. A ladder mounted platform with an adjustable angle plate may be provided to support materials, persons, or scaffold boards. A safety cable may be provided to secure persons or materials.
In another embodiment, a LADDER BRACE™ is provided to brace a ladder against a pump jack pole.
In another embodiment, a ROOF HOIST™ is provided to haul materials up and down a roof surface.
In another embodiment, a GROUND JACK™ is provided to support a ladder on a uneven surface.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
GABLEMASTER™ is an adjustable, lightweight, fully assembled aluminum platform which easily secures to roof truss layouts of two feet, 18 inches, and 16 inches (or other widths) on center and adjusts from 4/12 to 12/12 or other pitches. The GABLEMASTER™ eliminates makeshift devices or rental lifts because it easily installs on any pitched roof where extension ladders or pump jack poles are needed to set up scaffolding systems.
GABLEMASTER™ provides a level surface that secures ladders with adjustable steel bolts or pins. The product is ensured to provide safety for the user. The standard dimensions for this produce are 30″ in length and 54″ width, although other dimensional versions are permissible within the spirit and scope of the present invention. The GABLEMASTER™ invention will now be described in connection with
Materials other than aluminum may be used, of course. However, for high strength and low weight, the inventor has found aluminum construction to work well. The apparatus of the present invention could be conceivably made of other metals (e.g., steel) or even from plastics or composites (e.g., fiberglass and/or carbon fiber construction) without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
Pre-drilled holes 16 may be provided in support adjustment plates 11 at predetermined locations to secure a ladder leg, siding jack, or the like, as will be discussed below in connection with
Main support bars 2 may be fabricated from aluminum channel and are designed to be fastened to a roof truss on 24″ centers. Although not illustrated here, an additional support bar 2 may be provided in a slidable fashion on connecting rods 4 and 5. Such an additional support bar or bars may be used to secure the device to roof trusses which are not on 24″ centers (e.g., 12″ or 16″ centers). Main support bars 2 may be secured to roof trusses by nailing or screwing through pre-drilled holes 12. If nails are used, double-headed nails are preferred, as they may be readily removed without damaging or marring the roof surface.
Typically, four to eight double-headed nails may be used to secure main support bars 2 to a roof truss. Eight or more pre-drilled nail holes may be provided in each of main support bars 2 in the preferred embodiment.
A plurality of grooves or notches 10 may be cut into support bars 2 to allow angle adjustment of main support table 1 to compensate for different roof pitches. Connecting rod 5 may be adjusted to a corresponding one of the notches 10 to provide correct support to main support table 1 via support bars 3. Support bars 3 may in turn be connected to main support table 1 via rod pin 15 and plate 14 in a pivoting fashion. Connecting rod 4 may rotate within the holes provided in main support bars 2 and rotatably support platform 1 via plates 7 to allow for rotation with angle adjustment.
Connecting rod 5 may be provided with spacers 9 and carter pins 13 to lock spacers 9 in place. Spacers 9 may provide proper alignment between connecting rod 5 and main support bars 2 to provide correct spacing for 24″ (or the like) roof truss centers. In an alternative embodiment, multiple spacers or spacer positions may be provided to allow the apparatus to adjust to different roof truss spacings.
An additional connecting rod may be provided as safety rod 6, also provided with carter pins 13 and spacers 8. Safety rod 6 may be used to attach a tether line or the like. Such a tether line may be used to allow workers to secure themselves or materials, tools, supplies, or the like, to the apparatus. If the worker falls from the roof, the tether line may help break or interrupt their fall.
The present invention allows Prior Art scaffolding to be safely and easily installed above an inclined roof section. Other types of scaffolding and supports may also be supported by the present invention. As illustrated in
Lock pins 17 may be inserted into pre-drilled holes 16 to secure ladder B. As illustrated in
Legs of ladder B may rest between support adjustment plates 11. Support adjustment plates 11 may be spaced apart a standard distance of a typical aluminum, wood, or fiberglass construction ladder so as to readily accommodate such a ladder.
Other features may be added to the apparatus of the first embodiment of the present invention. For example, additional support adjustment plates 11 may be provided to secure a horizontal walkboard, scaffold, or the like to the apparatus.
In this modified version of
It should be noted that the GABLEMASTER™ may also be used to support materials and supplies in addition to, or in when not being used as, a scaffold or ladder support. Squares of shingles, water coolers, tools, and other supplies may be placed upon the surface of the GABLEMASTER™ of
Referring to
Support channel 918 may be used to support a scaffold platform, which could be a plank or board, or a specialized platform (e.g., aluminum scaffold platform) constructed for such purpose. When a number of the devices of
ROOFSTOCKER™ and ROOFER'S RACK™ provide adjustable platforms which allow a roofer to store materials safely on an inclined roof surface. The ROOFER'S RACK™ is an adjustable platform system designed to hold slate tiles, cedar shakes, terra cotta tiles, and other roofing accessories, tools, and materials. It may be placed at shoulder level, eliminating the up-and-down motion associated with prior art use of a scaffold board for material storage, thereby also eliminating the fatigue factor associated with installing these types of roofing materials. The ROOFER'S RACK™, because of its compact and lightweight design can be moved freely as work progresses, allowing for quicker installation time.
In its preferred embodiment, the ROOFSTOCKER™ is a lightweight, fully assembled aluminum platform composed of two units which can be used individually or in combination. Individually, the unit may support up to 2000 pounds of materials in one embodiment, whereas combined units may support up to 4000 pounds in another embodiment.
The addition of fourteen inch safety rails prevents materials such as tile and slate from falling off the roof. The platform easily adjusts to roof truss layouts of two feet, 18-inch and 16-inch on center, as well as other dimensions. The ROOFSTOCKER™ increases safety for employees and customers and decreases liability to the contractor. A custom tarp may be made to cover materials on the ROOFSTOCKER™. Standard size in the preferred embodiment is 54″ in length and 42″ in width.
Both the ROOFER'S RACK™ and ROOFSTOCKER™ will now be described in more detail in connection with
Main support table 1 may be constructed from aluminum sheet of approximately 1/4 inch in thickness. A lip or lips may be added, preferably as shown, on the outboard side of the apparatus, to prevent materials B from slipping off the surface of support table 1. Support table 1 and the lip or lips 11 may also be constructed from a single piece of cast aluminum. A texture (e.g., ribbing, cross-checking, or the like) may be applied to the surface of support table 1 to prevent materials from slipping off the surface.
Materials other than aluminum may be used, of course. However, for high strength and low weight, the inventor has found aluminum construction to work well. The apparatus of the present invention could be conceivably made of other metals (e.g., steel) or even from plastics or composites (e.g., fiberglass and/or carbon fiber construction) without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
Main support bars 2 may be fabricated from aluminum channel and are designed to be fastened to a roof truss on 24″ centers. The center support bar 2 may be provided in a slidable fashion on connecting rods 4 and 5. Such a slidable support bar or bars 2 may be used to secure the device to roof trusses which are not on 24″ centers (e.g., 12″ or 16″ centers). Main support bars 2 may be secured to roof trusses by nailing or screwing through pre-drilled holes 12. If nails are used, double-headed nails are preferred, as they may be readily removed without damaging or marring the roof surface.
Typically, four to eight double-headed nails may be used to secure main support bars 2 to a roof truss. Eight or more pre-drilled nail holes may be provided in each of main support bars 2 in the preferred embodiment. Other numbers of support bars 2 may be used (e.g., 2, 4, 5, 6, or more) to alter the size and width of the apparatus. For example, a larger apparatus may be made with four support bars. However, to maintain lightweight construction and to limit the amount of roof obscured by the apparatus, the inventor has found that three support bars on 24 inch centers to be the preferred embodiment.
A plurality of grooves or notches 10 may be cut into support bars 2 to allow angle adjustment of main support table 1 to compensate for different roof pitches. Connecting rod 5 may be adjusted to a corresponding one of the notches 10 to provide correct support to main support table 1 via support bars 3. Support bars 3 may in turn be connected to main support table 1 via rod pin 15 and plate 14 in a pivoting fashion. Connecting rod 4 may rotate within the holes provided in main support bars 2 and rotatably support platform 1 via plates 7 to allow for rotation with angle adjustment.
Connecting rod 5 may be provided with spacers 9 and carter pins 13 to lock spacers 9 in place. Spacers 9 may provide proper alignment between connecting rod 5 and main support bars 2 to provide correct spacing for 24″ (or the like) roof truss centers. In an alternative embodiment, multiple spacers or spacer positions may be provided to allow the apparatus to adjust to different roof truss spacings.
An additional connecting rod may be provided as safety rod 6, also provided with carter pins 13 and spacers 8. Safety rod 6 may be used to attach a tether line or the like. Such a tether line may be used to allow workers to secure themselves or materials, tools, supplies, or the like, to the apparatus. If the worker falls from the roof, the tether line may help break or interrupt their fall.
By using a layer of foam as opposed to nailing or screwing, the support of
In alternative embodiment of
Referring to
Connected to the support poles though a pivot joint 550 is an adjustable platform 518 which has its other end hinged to the channels 510, 512, through pivot 520. The support or poles 515, 516 may be adjusted to achieve a suitable angle of adjustment corresponding to roof incline by inserting bar 514 into one of notches 530. Notches 530 may be provided at intervals corresponding to standard roof pitches.
Platform 518 may be provided as a planar table, with one or more edge rails to prevent materials from falling off the platform. The platform may be sized to accommodate a standard package size of shingles or a shingle “square”. Roofing materials stored on a roof may be stored on the platform in a level manner and thus reduce the likelihood that such materials will fall off. Smaller versions of the platform may be provided for holding tools and the like, and specialized version may be provided for specific applications such as holding a 5-gallon IGLOO™ water cooler.
In the particular version of this embodiment, the device is designed with light weight construction in mind. Platform 518 may be made of tubing or may be provided with lightening holes. The use of the channels 510, 512 (as opposed to a flat base) further reduces weight. Overall weight of the apparatus may be reduced as much as 40%. Nailing holes 522 may be provided to secure the apparatus to a roof.
In the embodiment of
The platform may be provided as a planar table, with one or more edge rails to prevent materials from falling off the platform. The platform may be sized to accommodate a standard package size of shingles or a shingle “square”. Roofing materials stored on a roof may be stored on the platform in a level manner and thus reduce the likelihood that such materials will fall off. Smaller versions of the platform may be provided for holding tools and the like, and specialized version may be provided for specific applications such as holding a 5-gallon IGLOO™ water cooler.
In the particular version of this embodiment, the device is designed with light weight construction in mind. The platform may be made of tubing or may be provided with lightening holes. The use of a U-shaped base (as opposed to a flat base) further reduces weight. Overall weight of the apparatus may be reduced as much as 40%.
Nail holes are provided on the U-shapes channel to allow the device to be secured to a roof by use of hardened nails, screws, or the like. The size of the U-shaped portion corresponds to the spacing of roof trusses.
UTILITYMATE™ ROOFER'S TOOLBOX holds enough materials to complete roof repairs and most counter flashing in a one-step process, increasing worker productivity by eliminating repeated trips for more supplies. The roofer's toolbox can be placed on a pitched roof without required fastening devices such as nails or screws, to prevent it from sliding off the roof. It is lightweight and can be freely moved to any location on the roof. In the preferred embodiment it is approximately 38″ in length and 12″ in width. The UTILITYMATE™ ROOFER'S TOOLBOX will now be described in connection with
The tool tray may comprise a flat lower portion backed with a layer of medium density expanded polyurethane foam 272, the type commonly sold for upholstery in upholstery and fabric shops, although other types of foam or elastic material may be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. A number of compartments with or without dividers 273 may be provided in the tray for holding nails, shingles, tubes of roofing compound, tools, and the like.
Lower compartments may be divided by divider 273 for holding nails, small tools, and the like. The middle compartment may be lined with another layer of foam 274 in order to secure tubes of roofing mastic, cement, caulk, or the like. Such tubes are constantly tending to roll off a pitched roof, and the use of the foam secures such tubes in the center compartment regardless of whether one tube or a multiple number of tubes are present. A nylon rope and handle 275 may be provided to allow the tray to be carried up a ladder and also slid across the roof surface.
The material and supply tray of
The SLATEMATE™ may be sized slightly larger than the version in
An even longer version of the SLATEMATE™ may be provided with an external holder for a slate tool, which is used for removing slate nails. Such an apparatus may allow a roofer to move about a slate roof, repairing broken slates, without having to make multiple trips to a toolbox and without having to reach down to a Prior Art toolbox on a scaffolding or the like. The SLATEMATE™ can be placed right on the roof, adjacent or next to the place being repaired or installed. Little reaching is thus required, improving the worksite ergonomics considerably.
SHINGLE SLED™ is an aluminum sled which may be provided with wheels. SHINGLE SLED™ may hold an entire bundle of shingles in place during installation. Optional wheels allow the unit to be moved with ease as work progresses, saving time and money. IN the preferred embodiment, SHINGLE SLED™ is approximately 41 inches in length and 13 inches wide. SHINGLE SLED™ will now be described in more detail in connection with
A handle hole 334 may be provided to allow the tray to be moved readily from one place to another. A lip 33A may be formed to prevent materials (e.g., shingle 335) from falling off tray 331. Hole 333 may be provided for nailing or to secure foam 332 to tray 331. Note that foam 332 may be attached to tray 331 via a velcro backing or the like to facilitate replacement of foam 332 in the event foam 332 becomes worn from use on a roof.
SHINGLESTOCKER™ provides a means for securing bundles of shingles on a roof in a manner which prevents them from blowing or falling off. A bundle of shingles may be placed inside the C-channel shape of SHINGLESTOCKER™ and additional shingle bundles stacked on top of the device, preferably at the peak of a roof, where two of such devices are provided, on one each side of the peak. The SHINGLESTOCKER™ will now be described in connection with
In the embodiment of
ROOFER'S BRACKET™ is a one-piece bracket designed to secure roofing materials and scaffolding boards to any pitched roof. ROOFER'S BRACKET™ can be nailed to all roof truss systems, including 16 inch on center, 18 inch on center, and 2 foot on center. This bracket is very versatile and can be used to safely secure roofing materials to the peak of a roof, or two together can serve as a scaffolding system for installing a roof. This product insures a safe environment for employees and customers at low cost. The ROOFER'S BRACKET™ is the safest product of its kind in the roofing industry as it is designed to be nailed to two trusses versus the standard one truss system. In the preferred embodiment it is 34 inches in length and 10.5 inches in width. The ROOFER'S BRACKET™ will now be described in connection with
The ROOFER'S BRACKET™ apparatus may be used in a similar manner to the apparatus of
LADDER BRACKET™ is a one piece bracket designed to secure extension ladders to any pitched roof. LADDER BRACKET™ eliminates the need to set up scaffolding when doing roof repairs or working on steep pitched roofs. LADDER BRACKET™ can be moved quickly to new work areas and is safer to use than nailed wood. It holds the ladder securely so it can't jump out of or bounce off its footing. In the preferred embodiment, LADDER BRACKET™ is 34 inches in length and 6.5 inches wide. LADDER BRACKET™ will be described in more detail in connection with
Ladder bracket may comprise nailing plates 110 and 112 provided with nailing holes 130. A cross-beam 160 may connect nailing plates 110 and 130, which may be suitably spaced at an interval corresponding to roof truss spacings (e.g., 18″, 24″ or the like). Plates 150 may be provided on each nailing plate 110, 112, and attached to cross-beam 160. Plates 150 may be in pairs on each of nailing plate 110, 112, respectively, and each pair may be spaced apart by an amount slightly larger than a standard aluminum ladder size. Holes 140 may be provided to allow bolts or pins to be used to secure a ladder leg between plates 150.
The apparatus of
The SUREFOOT™ series of products are designed to secure ladders to roofs, ground, walls, and the like, to prevent the numerous ladder injuries which occur every year. SUREFOOT™ products are a series of safety devices designed to secure all types of ladders used in all types of situations. These products are easily attached to ladders without the need of installing nuts and bolts or drilling into the ladders, and potentially weakening them. They can be quickly transferred from one ladder to another. SUREFOOTS™ equipment ensures stability, thereby preventing accidents, which can result in liability claims for the business owner. The SUREFOOTS™ products will now be described in connection with
A threaded shaft may be provided with knurled knob 495 to lock portion 491a to 491b around a ladder leg. Knurled knob 495 may be secured to the device via a small chain to prevent it being dropped or lost. Lock hasp 493 may be provided to securely lock the device to a ladder to prevent theft or to prevent an unauthorized worker from removing the device before work is complete.
Once attached to ladder 61B, nailing plate 608 may be moved to an advantageous position on a roof, wall, or stud and nailed or screwed in place to hold the ladder. Pivot joint 605 allows freedom in placement of nailing plate 608. Nailing plate 608 may be provided with a swivel joint 615 of limited rotation or another ball and socket type joint such as 605.
Rope clamp 662 mounted to sure foot 661, may include catch 663a with teeth 663b rotatably mounted via pin 667. Spring 666 attached to catch 663a and clamp 662 via pins 665a and 665b holds catch 663a in tension. Knurled knob 668 may be used to release tension on catch 663a to release a rope 664 from the rope clamp.
In use, the device may be attached to a ladder leg an nailed to a roof, wall or other surface (either at the top or bottom of the ladder). In addition, the device may be used by attaching to the bottom of a ladder to steady the ladder as an extra leg, or to act as a ladder extension for one leg when, for example, setting up a ladder on steps. In addition, the device may be used to hold a ladder away from a wall to prevent gutters form being crushed.
A threaded shaft may be provided with knurled knob 705 to lock portion 701a to 701b around a ladder leg. Knurled knob 705 may be secured to the device via a small chain or cable to prevent it being dropped or lost. Lock hasp 703 may be provided to securely lock the device to a ladder to prevent theft or to prevent an unauthorized worker from removing the device before work is complete.
Pivot 705 comprising side plates 705a may be mounted to one end of sure foot 701 with a plurality of adjustment holes 705b upper leg portion 706a may be mounted to side plates via a bolt or pin and adjusted for angle using a pin (not shown) with attached clip (with a safety string for the clip).
Foot 708a may be covered with urethane foam 708c to provide grip. Nails holes 708b may also be provided to accept temporary nailing or screwing. Foot 708a may be mounted to lower leg portion 707a via a pivot.
Upper leg portion 706a may be adjustably attached to lower leg portion 707a via a screw jack mechanism comprising threaded lower leg portion 707a, internally threaded upper leg portion 706a and locking wing-nut 707b. In use, the device may be attached to a ladder leg and nailed to a roof, wall or other surface (either at the top or bottom of the ladder). In addition, the device may be used by attaching to the bottom of a ladder to steady the ladder as an extra leg, or to act as a ladder extension for one leg when, for example, setting up a ladder on steps. In addition, the device may be used to hold a ladder away from a wall to prevent gutters form being crushed.
The apparatus of
Clamp 711 may be mounted to a ladder step, or the like. Clamp 711 may be lined with compressible foam rubber 712 so as to securely grip various ladder step cross-sections without slipping. Clamp 711 may be provided in two halves joined by hinge 715. The two halves may be attached though use of bolts or fasteners 713 which may be further secure by use of a safety clip as illustrated. The safety clip doubles as an attachment point for strap 714.
Strap 714 may be tightened by passing an end portion 718 through buckle 716 which is provided with a lock hole 717. Excess portions 713 of strap 714 may be tied off or may be left to hang. In operation, clamp 711 may be securely clamped around a ladder step as illustrated in
Once clamp 711 is clamped to the ladder step, strap 714 may be attached to a gutter, nailing plate, or other support, via safety clip 80 (or the like) as illustrated in
Clamp 721 may be provided in two halves joined by hinge 725. The two halves may be attached though use of bolts or fasteners 723 which may be further secure by use of a safety clip as illustrated. The safety clip doubles as an attachment point for strap 724. Strap 724 may be tightened by passing an end portion 728 through buckle 726 which is provided with a lock hole 727. Excess portions 723 of strap 724 may be tied off or may be left to hang.
Note that the strap may be wound around the device when the strap is secured to the buckle. Note that although disclosed here in terms of a draw-tight strap, the present invention may also be applied to ratchet straps.
Clamp 771 may be mounted to a truck ladder rack, car luggage rack, or the like. Clamp 771 may be lined with compressible foam rubber 772 so as to securely grip various rack channel cross-sections without slipping. Clamp 771 may be provided in two halves joined by hinge 775. The two halves may be attached though use of bolts or fasteners 773 which may be further secure by use of a safety clip 774 as illustrated. The safety clip doubles as an attachment point for strap 778. Strap 778 may be tightened by passing an end portion through buckle 776 which is provided with a lock hole 777. Excess portions of strap 778 may be tied off or may be left to hang.
It should be noted that all of the embodiments of the present invention, the use of ratchet straps or draw-tight straps on various embodiments is largely interchangeable. Thus, any disclosure illustrating the use of a draw-tight strap should be understood to encompass a ratchet strap and vice-versa.
A draw-tight or ratchet strap 826 may be mounted to clamp 821 to secure a ladder or other object to the roof rack. Hooks for the strap may thus not be required. In addition, the strap may be locked to prevent loosening of the strap or petty theft or borrowing of the objects secured to the strap.
Clamp 821 may be provided in two halves joined by hinge 825. The two halves may be attached though use of bolts or fasteners 823 which may be further secured by use of a safety clip. A strap (not shown) may be tightened by passing an end portion through one or more of buckles 826 which may be provided with a lock hole 827. Excess portions of the strap may be tied off or may be left to hang.
A padlock may be passed through lock hole 827 to prevent buckle 826 from being released. The strap may be locked to prevent loosening of the strap or petty theft or borrowing of the objects secured to the strap. Workers on a job site will be less inclined to “borrow” a jack post that is so locked. Of course, a determined thief may be able to cut the strap to release the jack post. However, an armored strap may be provided to prevent or discourage such theft.
In use, the strap may be wound around a portion of a jack post which may be inserted into one of openings 820. Note that although disclosed here in terms of a draw-tight strap, the present invention may also be applied to ratchet straps.
Two such devices may be used on either ends of a roof rack to secure several jack posts by placing the jack posts through openings 820 in the two devices.
The embodiment of the rack strap of the present invention may also be suitably modified for round tube racks. Other shapes may also be used (e.g., hexagon) without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
Plate 700 may be secured to a roof by nails or screws driven through nailing holes 710. Adjustable pin 730 may be placed through holes 720. In use, a safety line or the like may be secured to pin 730 to secure an individual or an apparatus such as a ladder or the like.
Bar 852 may be on the order of ¾″ to 1″ in diameter and may be made of steel or aluminum. A number of holes may be drilled in bar 852 in one foot increments (or the like) to allow insertion of pins 855 securing washers 853 and 855 (not shown for washer 853 in this drawing). A workman may clip or tie a line to bar 852. Washers 853 prevent the line from sliding along bar 852 very far.
Plates 851 may be nailed or screwed through holes 854 into roof trusses. Plates 851 are adjustable on bar 852 for different roof truss center distances (e.g., 16″, 24″ and the like). The overall length of bar 852 may be on the order of 6 feet, allowing for multiple tie-offs or allowing a roofer to move his tie-off as work progresses.
In
Plates 901 may be nailed or screwed through holes 904 into roof trusses. Plates 901 may be adjustable on bar 902 for different roof truss center distances (e.g., 16″, 24″ and the like). The overall length of bar 902 may be on the order of two feet, allowing for multiple tie-offs or allowing a roofer to move his tie-off as work progresses.
Power tools are generally not well suited to cutting shingles. Most are heavy and require electrical power. In addition, large power tools present a hazard to workers below if they fall off the roof. What is needed is a small powered tool which can cut shingles accurately and cleanly. The SHINGLESAW™ 930 of
SHINGLESAW™ 930 may be provided with a cutting blade 932 of approximately 2″ in length. SHINGLESAW™ 930 may be sized to fit in one hand, much as a prior art razor knife is designed to fit. Adjustable depth gauge 933 may be adjusted to control depth of cut and prevent blade 932 for piercing underlayment or the like. A hook 932 may be provided to allow SHINGLESAW™ to be clipped to a belt or the like. Air chuck 935 allows SHINGLESAW™ to be connected to an air line (such as used for roofing nail guns or the like).
The SHINGLESAW™ 500 of
SHINGLESAW™ 500 may be provided with a cutting blade 502 of approximately 2″ in length. SHINGLESAW™ 500 may be sized to fit in one hand, much as a prior art razor knife is designed to fit. Adjustable depth gauge 503 may be adjusted to control depth of cut and prevent blade 502 for piercing underlayment or the like. Air chuck 505 allows SHINGLESAW™ to be connected to an air line (such as used for roofing nail guns or the like).
SHINGLESAW™ 2800 may be provided with a rotary double-edged cutting blade 2860 of approximately 2″ in length. Other numbers of edges may also be used (e.g., four edges). In another embodiment, removable carbide blade inserts may be provided on blade element 2860. Such carbide blade inserts may be held in place by set-screw, clip, or the like. Carbide provides the necessary hardness to withstand the abrasive environment of shingle-cutting, as the asphalt and abrasive grit of shingles may wear down a regular steel blade rapidly.
SHINGLESAW™ 2800 may be sized to fit in one hand, much as a prior art razor knife is designed to fit. Adjustable depth gauge 2840 may be adjusted via wing nut 2810 to control depth of cut and prevent blade 2860 from piercing underlayment or the like. A safety guard 2850, similar to that of a circular saw, only suitably miniaturized, may be provided to protect the user. Air chuck 2830 allows SHINGLESAW™ to be connected to an air line (such as used for roofing nail guns or the like). Lever 2820 may activate an air switch to activate the pneumatic actuator of SHINGLESAW™ 2800.
The airmotor may be provided with a quickconnect 1693 to allow it to be connected to an air line such as used by a roofer for a nailgun or the like. A safety 1694 may be provided to the lever switch 1695 to prevent a user from accidently activating the SHINGLESAW™ 1690. The blade housing and guard 1692 may be pivotally mounted to the shoe plate 1696 by means of an adjustable wingnut 1697 so as to allow for depth control of the cut. Note the four bladed saw 1698 in
SHINGLESAW™ unlike Prior Art circular saws and the like, is small enough to fit in roof valleys and other tight areas where larger saws will not fit. Unlike rechargeable battery-powered saws, the SHINGLESAW™ in the embodiment of
SINGLESAW™ may also be provided with a cutting guide attached to the underside of shoe plate 1696, behind blade 1698 to act as a cutting guide in a similar manner to a rip fence on a circular saw, but to make flush cuts such as on the edge of a roof, such that the saw blade will cut flush with the drip edge without the saw blade cutting the drip edge itself.
Different blade and blade teeth designs may be employed to cut different types of materials such as wood, metal, or the like. While disclosed in the preferred embodiment as cutting shingle materials, the SHINGLESAW™ may be used to cut other materials. Unlike Prior Art circular saw blades, which are designed to make thin cuts, the SHINGLESAW™ blade is approximately 1/4″ thick to make a wide cut without binding in the cut material. Experiments with Prior Art circular saw blades shows these blades to bind when cutting through several layers of roofing material.
The apparatus of
A depth control 1834 prevents this version of SHINGLESAW™ from cutting into the roof structure and controls depth by adjusting the position of shoe plate 1832. A handle 1841 may be provided with a power cord 1842 and control switch 1843. The apparatus may be powered by an electric motor 1833 or air motor, although in the preferred embodiment an electric motor is used to provide the needed power and torque to drive the multiple saw blades.
Thus, as foam insert 972 wears, it may be replaced simply by removing it using the velcro fasteners 973 and 973. In an alternative embodiment, foam insert 972 may be glued or otherwise fastened to base plate 971. Foam insert 972 may comprise expanded polyurethane foam such as that used for furniture cushions and the like and commonly available at fabric stores and the like. Other elastomeric materials may be substituted for foam insert 972 without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
As illustrated in
Attached to jack post sleeve 101 is a attachment point 105 for a strap 103 which is attached to jack post sleeve 102 via ratchet strap 104. When properly set up, strap 103 is maintained in tension. Strap 103 is provided with a plurality of sewn-in loops 106 to use as tie-off locations for workers.
The number and size of such nozzles may be varied to provide desired spray patterns and effectiveness. Note that while illustrated in
In can be seen that in the embodiment of
Referring to
Referring to
Support channel 1 may be used to support one leg of a scaffold bracket. When a number of the devices of
Referring to
Again referring to
In use, the device may be attached to a ladder leg and placed or nailed to a roof, wall or other surface (either at the top or bottom of the ladder). In addition, the device may be used by attaching to the bottom of a ladder to steady the ladder as an extra leg, or to act as a ladder stabilizer. In addition, the device may be used to hold a ladder away from a wall to prevent gutters form being crushed.
In the embodiment of
In use, the apparatus is attached to the pivoting foot of an aluminum ladder or the like. The apparatus rests between the ladder and the floor, preventing the ladder from marring the floor surface and distributing the weight of the ladder and user over a broader area. In addition, the foam acts as a non-slip anti-skid device, to prevent the ladder from moving or slipping. When used on a stairway or against a wall, bent lip portion 1305 may rest against the stair riser or wall baseboard to prevent marring of these surfaces.
As shingling progresses, for example, the roof ladder bracket 1501 may be installed near bottom edge of a roof. Additional, lightweight sections 1502 may then be added as the shingling progresses up the roof.
In use, a scaffold board or the like may be attached to the roof ladder using brackets and the like as is known in the art. Individual sections of roof ladder may be attached to one another like sections of railroad track, using suitable fasteners. Each section may be provided as a lightweight unit. A smaller number of steps may be used, for example, to provide short and easy to handle ladder sections. Since the ladder is built up as roofing progresses upward, the ladder does not “cover” the work area and movement of the ladder is not required to install shingles. In addition, it is not necessary to climb to the peak to secure a ladder or use a J-hook or the like by trying to manipulate a ladder from the bottom, which can be awkward and cumbersome.
A first hook and loop fastener portion 1802 may be applied to one side of the resilient foam (e.g., expanded polyurethane or the like) to form removable foam cover 1804. A second layer of hook-and-loop fastener material 1803 may be applied to the tool 1805 itself. Foam cover 1804 may then be removably placed on tool 1805. When tool 1805 (here illustrated as a nailgun) is placed on the roof surface, resilient foam 1801 prevents it from slipping off the roof.
When clipped over the cylinder of a roofing nailgun, the GUNPAD™ provides a padded rubber surface which is less likely to slip off a roof. Most nailguns have smooth plastic or metal finished which allow them to slide off a roof with ease, creating a falling tool hazard to workers below.
When the rubber wears off the GUNPAD™, the apparatus may be removed and a new GUNPAD™ clipped in place. The GUNPAD™ can be applied to a number of Prior Art roofing nailguns without modifying the nailgun or voiding the warranty. Note that the C-shaped channel may also be made of metal (e.g., spring steel) or other material which will grip the nailgun. Rubber may also be provided on the inside surface to securely grip the nailgun.
In this first embodiment, a pump jack mounting device 1901 is provided to secure a pump jack pole (not shown) to the ground. A cup-like sleeve 1901 is provided with a hole the bottom for receiving a ground spike (not shown). A portion 1902 of the sleeve may be removed (e.g., slide connection) to facilitate driving the ground spike into the ground. Once secured to the ground, the removable portion 1902 of the sleeve 1901 is reinserted and a pump jack pole 1904 inserted into the sleeve.
The apparatus of
Rubber pad 1915 also may be used to prevent sleeve 1901 from slipping on hard ground, concrete, asphalt, or the like. Note that in addition to a central hole provided in sleeve 1901 and rubber pad 1915 to accept the spike, a number of smaller nail/screw holes are also provided. If sleeve 1910 is mount on a deck, for example, these smaller holes may be used to nail or screw sleeve 1901 to such a surface. Note also that rubber pad 1915 may also be used to prevent marring or damage to a surface from the concentrated pressure from sleeve 1901.
The sawhorse of
Sawhorse platform 214 may be provided with slot 218 for accepting a 2×4 216 or the like so as to prevent a load on sawhorse platform 214 from sliding off. Stabilizing legs 220 may be provided with foam-backed feet to stabilize the ROOFER'S SAWHORSE™. Stabilizing legs 220 may be adjusted for length using threaded shaft 224. Threaded shaft 224 may be substituted with a locking pin and sliding shaft arrangement. Pivot 222 may be used to adjust the angle of support leg 220.
Unlike prior embodiments which utilized hinges and threaded nuts to secure, the embodiment of
Cloth cover 725B not only provides an improved appearance to the overall device, but the tension produced by the cloth cover 725B against eye shield 710 pushes eye shield 710 against hook-and-loop fastener portion 725 to insure that eye shield 710 does not come loose when in use. Without cloth cover 725B, eye shield 710 would tend to un-stick from hook-and-loop fastener portions 715 and 725 and eye shield 710 would fall off as a result. This cloth cover 725A may be applied to other embodiments of the present invention as well.
It should be noted that eye shield 710 may take the form of a face shield, eyeglasses, or other combination of plexiglass, polycarbonate, glass, or other transparent, semi-transparent, translucent (or even in some circumstances, opaque) material for shielding the face and/or eyes.
In both the embodiments of
In addition, the lens(es) may be provided with a hinge or adjustment mechanism to allow a user to adjust the angle of the lens (es) to compensate for different size heads, foreheads, and the like. Alteratively, the lens(es) could be provided with a stepped portion to allow the lens(es) to sit further from the face of the user. Prescription lens(es) may also be provided.
One problem with safety equipment is getting workers to wear and use it. Workers may be adverse to using a particular piece of safety equipment if they feel awkward or feel they look ridiculous or silly. Given the popularity of the “dew rag” or bandanna headgear, the embodiment of
As illustrated in
It should be noted that the cloth cover 725A of
Liquid reservoir 100 may be provided with cap 111 to allow reservoir 100 to be filled with cold water or other liquid. Cap 111 may be made large enough (which may require mounting on the back or other portion) to allow ice water to be filled into liquid reservoir 100. Other liquids such as alcohol, which also provides an evaporative cooling effect, may be used in reservoir 100 without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
Switch 1450 may control current to one or more fans 1460 coupled to spray rings 1470. In operation, the user may wear reservoir 1400 as a back pack secured by straps 1480. The user may select a fan only mode by switching on fan(s) 1460 using switch 1450. Additional cooling may be achieved by switching on pump 1420 via switch 1440 to pump water from reservoir 1400 through spray rings 1470 via tubing 1490.
In an alternative embodiment, the nozzles 3150 may be removed and suitable flexible hoses attached thereto which may be fed together (e.g., through a “T” fitting) or separately to a headgear such as a hardhat or the like to provide cooling to the head of the wearer.
Fan 3160 may be mounted to the back of reservoir 3100 or may be provided inside of reservoir 3100 within an air plenum chamber molded into the back of reservoir 3100. In the preferred embodiment, a small battery-powered fan 3160 may be provided, powered by rechargeable battery 3130 (e.g., 12-14 V power tool rechargeable battery pack) controlled by a switch 3140, to send intake air through heat exchanger tubes 3170 to nozzles 3150.
Switch 3140 may control current to one or more fans 3160. In operation, the user may wear reservoir 3100 as a back pack secured by straps 3180. The user activate fan(s) 3160 by switching on fan(s) 3160 using switch 3140. Air is drawn into the fan plenum through a suitable intake and then passes through heat exchanger tubes 3170 where the air is chilled by the contents of reservoir 3100. Chilled air is then directed toward a user's face and neck area by nozzles 3150.
Roof plate 1502, having a substantial surface area and being backed with the foam layer, will tend to grip the roof surface and not slide off. The Foam layer tends to conform to the rough surface of the roof and thus does not readily slip off. Foam layer may be sufficient to support the insulated water container 1501, which may comprise, for example, a five gallon insulated water cooler.
By using a layer of foam as opposed to nailing or screwing, the water cooler of
Water container 1501 may be provided with tap and nozzle assembly 1509 to dispense water. Cap 1510 may be threaded or snap into place and may be made wide enough to accept ice cubes and the like. The low profile of water container 1501 reduces the likelihood of tipping and also allows the entire assembly to be compact. Although not shown in
In a seventh embodiment, known as ROOFMISTER™, a water tank and pump may be provided on the ground, fed to one or more misting nozzles mounted on a rooftop.
The pressurized water may then be fed through hose 1606 to one or more nozzles 1604 via valves 1605. Nozzle(s) 1604 may be mounted to strategic locations on a roof top, work site, or other desired location by means of mounting bracket 1601 provided with nail holes 1607. Nozzle 1604 may be pivoted to aim the resultant water spray by swivelling upper bracket 1602 in relation to lower bracket 1601 via pin 1603.
Electric pump 1790 may pump water through water line 1720 to mister nozzle 1710. Fan 1720 (illustrated here as a squirrel cage fan) may blow air through the mist produced by nozzle 1710 to create a cooling breeze for roofers or other workers.
Pump 1790 may be powered by a rechargeable battery pack 1770 (e.g., 12-18V portable power tool battery pack known in the art) or may be powered (or the battery recharged by) solar panel 1780.
In the illustrated embodiment of
Mister pump 1830 and fan 1840 may be powered by 110 Volts A/C power or other electrical “mains” power supply so as to eliminate the need for batteries or solar panels and the like. In another configuration of the present invention, mister pump 1830 and fan 1840 may be powered by batteries, solar panels, or the like. Fan 1840 is illustrated here as a radial fan as is known in the art and may be adjustable in a number of directions so as to direct air flow to the user(s). In addition, fan 1840 may be an oscillating type fan so as to circulate air in an oscillating manner.
Fan 1840 may be provided with mister ring 1850 provided with mister sprayers. Fan 1840 may be mounted to a roof mount 1870 provided with foam backing 1860 and/or nail holes (not shown) in a similar manner to that of
Electric pump 3390 may pump water through water line 3320 to mister nozzle 3310. Fan 3320 (illustrated here as a squirrel cage fan) may blow air through the mist produced by nozzle 3310 to create a cooling breeze for roofers or other workers.
Pump 3390 may be powered by a rechargeable battery pack (not shown) such as a 12-34V portable power tool battery pack known in the art, or may be powered (or the battery recharged by) a solar panel (not shown).
In the illustrated embodiment of
Mister pump 3390 and fan 3320 may be powered by 110 Volts A/C power or other electrical “mains” power supply 3410 so as to eliminate the need for batteries or solar panels and the like. In another configuration of the present invention, mister pump 3390 and fan 3320 may be powered by batteries, solar panels, or the like. Fan 3320 is illustrated here as an squirrel cage type fan as is known in the art and may be adjustable in a number of directions so as to direct air flow to the user(s).
Fan 3320 may be provided with misters sprayers 3310. Fan 3320 may be mounted to a roof mount 3370 provided with foam backing (not shown) and/or nail holes (not shown) in a similar manner to that of
When installing pump jack poles for use in home construction or renovation, a worker on the ground may tie a rope to one end of the pump jack pole, while a worker on the roof hoists the pump jack pole into position. This Prior Art technique has some disadvantages, as it is dangerous for the roof worker to lean over the roof to hoist the pump jack pole up manually. The worker could fall due to the poor balance situation, or accidently drop the pump jack pole, injuring workers below or damaging the house (e.g., though the window). Moreover, the rope attached to the pump jack pole itself may come loose and cause the pump jack to fall.
In operation of the present invention, on the other hand, a far end of rope, wire, cable 1910 may be attached to the pump jack pole using a unique apparatus described below, and the winch of
Flashing material 2550 from roll 2560 may be fed through slot 2570 to dispense a portion of flashing material 250 from roll 2560. In this manner, the roll of flashing material 2560 is protected from abuse and neglect. Rolls 2560 may be inserted into box 2510 by lifting lid 2520 which may be attached by hinge 2530. Note that slot 2570 may be made a portion of the opening formed by lid 2520 or the like.
In addition, the apparatus 2500 of
Plate 3060 may also be provided with nailing holes 3020 to allow the ladder to be nailed to roof trusses. In this manner, ROOFLADDER 3000 may be secured to a roof without marring the roof surface or slipping off. As opposed to prior art ridge-hooked ladders, the ROOFLADDER™ of the present invention may be pushed upward onto a roof from the bottom, and then nailed at the bottom through nailing holes 3020. As noted in applicant's earlier filed Provisional Application incorporated above, sections of ROOFLADDER™ may be connected together much in the same way as sections of model railroad track. Thus, a roof ridge is not needed to secure ROOFLADDER™ to a roof.
As illustrated in
Platform 2900 may include base plate 2910 which may be secured to ladder rungs via top hooks 2920 and bottom hooks 2930. Gravity may hold the platform in place, or optional clips, straps, wires, or safety chains may be used to prevent platform 2900 from sliding out of place. Adjustable plate 2940 may support a scaffolding board, or may be used as a work or tool platform (e.g., bucket of paint, shingles, etc.) or may be used to stand on, sit on, or the like. Adjustment mechanism 2950 may be used to adjust the angle of adjustable plate 2940 to make it substantially level. Adjustment mechanism 2950 may incorporate one of the many adjustment techniques used by applicant in the disclosed embodiments in the present application and the applications incorporated by reference. Standard roof pitch adjustments may be provided.
The ROOFTANK™ may be constructed by putting standard PVC plumbing end caps 1620 onto a selected length of 3″ or other sized pipe 1610. Such pipes may be rated for hundreds of pounds of pressure, and thus can withstand the 90-110 lbs of pressure produced by most tool compressors. Threaded fittings 1640, 1650 may be provided on the end caps 1610, either by threading the end caps 1610 or by using suitable adapters (or by providing a specialized end cap with a threaded portion). In the embodiment of
Male and female air hose quick-connects 1640, 1650 may be provided to allow ROOFTANK™ 1600 to be connected to an air hose on one end and an air tool hose on another. Self-sealing quick-connects 1640, 1650 may be used, or the connects 1640, 1650 may be valved to allow the tank to hold air and be used as a stand-alone air supply.
The entire apparatus may be mounted to one of the adjustable roof material stands 1660 disclosed previously in the present application, as illustrated in
The LADDERSPIKE™ may be used at the bottom of the ladder, as shown, or may be used to secure a ladder at the top, to a roofing surface or other surface, using nail(s), screw(s), or the like. The apparatus may be stamped from one piece of metal, seriously reducing costs as compared to some of applicant's earlier embodiments of the SUREFOOT™ series of products.
The LADDERSPIKE™ apparatus of
Main support table 1761 for the unit may support a ladder, siding jack, walking board, or the like and may be constructed from aluminum sheet of approximately 1/4 inch in thickness. Support adjustment plates 17611 may be provided from aluminum angle stock or flat plate welded to support table 1761. In the alternative, support table 1761 and adjustment plates 17611 may be constructed from a single piece of cast aluminum.
Materials other than aluminum may be used, of course. However, for high strength and low weight, the inventor has found aluminum construction to work well. The apparatus of the present invention could be conceivably made of other metals (e.g., steel) or even from plastics or composites (e.g., fiberglass and/or carbon fiber construction) without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
Pre-drilled holes 17616 may be provided in support adjustment plates 17611 at predetermined locations to secure a ladder leg, siding jack, or the like.
Main support bars 1762 may be fabricated from aluminum channel and are designed to be fastened to a roof truss on 24″ centers. Although not illustrated here, an additional support bar 1762 may be provided in a slidable fashion on connecting rods 1764 and 1765. Such an additional support bar or bars may be used to secure the device to roof trusses which are not on 24″ centers (e.g., 12″ or 16″ centers). Main support bars 1762 may be secured to roof trusses by nailing or screwing through pre-drilled holes 17612. If nails are used, double-headed nails are preferred, as they may be readily removed without damaging or marring the roof surface.
Typically, four to eight double-headed nails may be used to secure main support bars 1762 to a roof truss. Eight or more pre-drilled nail holes may be provided in each of main support bars 1762 in the preferred embodiment.
A plurality of grooves or notches 17610 may be cut into support bars 1762 to allow angle adjustment of main support table 1761 to compensate for different roof pitches. Connecting rod 1765 may be adjusted to a corresponding one of the notches 17610 to provide correct support to main support table 1761 via support bars 1763. Support bars 1763 may in turn be connected to main support table 1761 via rod pin 17615 and plate 17614 in a pivoting fashion. Connecting rod 1764 may rotate within the holes provided in main support bars 1762 and rotatably support platform 1761 via plates 1767 to allow for rotation with angle adjustment.
Connecting rod 1765 may be provided with spacers 1769 and carter pins 17613 to lock spacers 1769 in place. Spacers 1769 may provide proper alignment between connecting rod 1765 and main support bars 1762 to provide correct spacing for 24″ (or the like) roof truss centers. In an alternative embodiment, multiple spacers or spacer positions may be provided to allow the apparatus to adjust to different roof truss spacings.
This embodiment provides a means for securing a ladder 1795 to a pump jack pole 1821. Pump jack poles are used by siding workers and the like to secure a scaffold or walk board. Two approx 4″×4″ aluminum poles may be secured to a building and the ground and a pump jack mechanism secured to each. A scaffold or walkboard is secured to the pump jack mechanisms.
When two workers kick the pump jack mechanism, the scaffold or walkboard can be raised or lowered accordingly. In use, when a worker wishes to come down from the scaffold, they are supposed to use the pump jack mechanisms to raise and lower the entire scaffold or walkboard. In reality, to save time, workers often lay a ladder against the scaffold or walkboard and use the ladder to ascend or descend from the walkboard. Laying a ladder against a movable walkboard or scaffold is dangerous, and moreover, OHSA and other regulatory agencies are requiring that all ladders on a jobsite be secured.
In the embodiment of
The pump jack clamp 1791 may attached to ladder bracket through brace 1800, which may be mounted at an angle of 75 degrees below horizontal in actual application, so as to slant the ladder at an angle of 75 degrees as required by OSHA. Other angles may also be used. Pump jack clamp 1791 may be provided with rollers 1799 and cotter pins 1792 (which may also act as axles to other rollers).
In the preferred embodiment, a single cotter pin 1792 may be used to secure the pump jack clamp 1791. Two sets of holes may be provided for a single cotter pin 1792, as illustrated in
The apparatus may be attached to the pump jack pole 1821 above or below the pump jack. When secured above the pump jack, the raising motion of the pump jack will automatically raise the ladder (particularly an extension ladder) as the pump jack is raised.
In use, the angle of winch 1875 may be altered depending upon application or roof rake or the like by removing pin 1872 and rotating insert 1873 in round base 1871. Although illustrated here as having two sets of orthogonal holes, other numbers of holes may be provided for pin 1872 to provide multiple angles of adjustment. The winch may be used to hoist materials up a roof incline (e.g., via roofer's ladder or the like) or to hoist materials up from the ground. In
In the embodiment of
brace 1894 may be provided with adjustment mechanism 1898 and 1897 to adjust the angle of lip clip 1896 via arm 1895. Adjustment mechanisms 1898 and 1897 may be coupled together with bolts and wingnuts or the like or cotter pins or other adjustable apparatus. One attached to a ladder rung, the apparatus may be attached at lip clip 1896 to the edge of a telephone box, gutter, or other edge to secure the ladder. A safety strap 1901 may be wound around a pole or other structure and secured via clip 1894 to a hole in the apparatus or to the structure itself. Clamp 1902 may be used to tighten strap 1901.
In
In the embodiment of
While the preferred embodiment and various alternative embodiments of the invention have been disclosed and described in detail herein, it may be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope thereof.
It should also be noted that the present inventor has built and tested most, if not all, of the embodiments set forth in the present application, and as a master roofer, has tested all of the apparatus successfully. To the best knowledge of the inventor, no such products are commonly or commercially available to roofers at the time of filing.
Note that the apparatus of
Also the apparatus of
The roof peak embodiment may provide additional load carrying capacity as well as area, as the unit, spanning the peak, does not rely upon nails or screws placed in shear to prevent the apparatus from sliding off the roof. Rather, since the apparatus spans the roof peak, the loads are carried directly downward on to the roof structure. As a result, a larger load of materials (e.g., squares or pallets of shingles or the like) may be supported.
Claims
1. A roofer's saw comprising:
- an airmotor, for receiving compressed air and driving a rotary shaft;
- a sawblade, coupled to the rotary housing, for cutting roofing shingles;
- a saw housing, adjustably coupled to the airmotor, for controlling a depth of cut of the sawblade in the roofing shingles.
2. The roofer's saw of claim 1, wherein the blade comprises a rotary saw blade of 3⅜″ to 5″ in diameter having 4 to 8 teeth, each of the 4 to 8 teeth having a carbide bit.
3. The roofer's saw of claim 1, wherein the air motor comprises a 90 degree grinder motor adapted to drive the sawblade.
4. The roofer's saw of claim 3 wherein the air motor further includes an on-off valve, the on-off valve provided with a safety latch to prevent the on-off valve from being actuated unless the safety latch is first released.
5. The roofer's saw of claim 1, wherein the sawblade comprises a four-bladed blade having carbide tips on each blade.
6. The roofer's saw of claim 1, wherein the sawblade comprises a six-bladed blade having carbide tips on each blade.
7. The roofer's saw of claim 1, wherein the sawblade comprises a carbide-tipped sawblade having a chipper edged carbide bit.
8. The roofer's saw of claim 1, wherein the sawblade is approximately 1/4″ thick so as to provide a wide cut without binding.
9. The roofer's saw of claim 1, wherein the sawblade is substantially 3⅜″ in diameter so as to cut through multiple layers of shingles without binding.
10. An adjustable ladder bumpout, comprising:
- a ladder rung clamp, for clamping the adjustable ladder bumpout to a rung of a ladder;
- at least one bumpout arm, coupled to the ladder run clamp, for spacing the ladder from an object; and
- means for securing the ladder bumpout to the object.
11. The adjustable ladder bumpout of claim 10, wherein the means for securing the ladder comprises a lip clip for clipping to an edge of the object, the lip clip being adjustably mounted to the at least one bumpout arm.
12. The adjustable ladder bumpout of claim 11, wherein the means for securing the ladder further comprises a safety strap attached to the adjustable ladder bumpout, for securing the ladder against the object.
13. The adjustable ladder bumpout of claim 10, wherein the means for securing the ladder comprises a bumpout plate having an elastomeric face, adjustably mounted to the at least one bumpout arm.
14. The adjustable ladder bumpout of claim 13, wherein the means for securing the ladder further comprises a safety strap attached to the adjustable ladder bumpout, for securing the ladder against the object.
15. The adjustable ladder bumpout of claim 10, wherein the means for securing the ladder comprises a curved bumpout plate, mounted to the at least one bumpout arm, for securing the adjustable ladder bumpout against a curved object.
16. The adjustable ladder bumpout of claim 15, wherein the means for securing the ladder further comprises a safety strap attached to the adjustable ladder bumpout, for securing the ladder against the object.
17. The adjustable ladder bumpout of claim 15, wherein the means for securing the ladder further comprises holes provided the in the curved bumpout plate for allowing a fastener to secure the curved bumpout plate to the curved object.
18. A combination eyeglasses and sweatband comprising:
- at least one lens element;
- a sweatband, for attaching to the head of a user; and
- means for attaching the at least one lens element to the sweatband.
19. The combined eyeglasses and sweatband of claim 18, wherein the means for attaching comprises a pocket formed in the sweatband, each side of the pocket lined with a complimentary type of hook-and-loop fastener, and the at least one lens element further includes complimentary types of hook-and-loop fastener on either side of a top portion of the at least one lens element, such that when the pocket is opened, the top portion of the at least one lens element may be inserted and the pocket closed onto the top portion of the at least one lens element such that complimentary hook-and-loop fastener portions on the at least one lens element attach to complimentary hook-and-loop fastener portions in the pocket.
20. The combined eyeglasses and sweatband of claim 19, wherein an outer portion of the pocket comprises a strip element, attached to the sweatband at one end, such that the strip element may be peeled away from the sweatband to allow the at least one lens element to be inserted into the pocket.
21. A bracket for securing a ladder to a pump jack pole, comprising:
- a ladder attachment portion for securing the bracket to a portion of a ladder;
- a slidable pole attachment portion, for slidably attaching the bracket to a pump jack pole.
22. The bracket of claim 21, wherein the slidable pole attachment portion comprises a C-shaped pump jack pole clamp for sliding over a pump jack, secured with at least one cotter pin.
23. The bracket of claim 22, wherein the slidable pole attachment portion further comprises at least one roller provided on an inside portion of the C-shaped pump jack pole clamp for allowing the C-shaped pump jack pole clamp to slide over a pump jack pole.
24. The bracket of claim 22, wherein the ladder attachment portion comprises a rounded portion of gripping an underside of a ladder rung and a flat portion for gripping a topside of a ladder rung, with fastening means fastening the rounded portion and the flat portion together.
25. The bracket of claim 22, further comprising a brace, coupling the ladder attachment portion and the slidable pole attachment portion at a predetermined angle so as to place the ladder at a predetermined angle to the pump jack pole.
Type: Application
Filed: Jan 31, 2005
Publication Date: Aug 11, 2005
Inventor: Robert Garrett (Severn, MD)
Application Number: 11/045,471