Abstract: A lift mechanism for lifting a wheelchair compartment from a non-horizontal ramp position to a horizontal safe position comprises an elevator structure, a wheelchair compartment configured to hold a wheelchair and rotatable from the ramp position to the safe position, a cam connected to the compartment and comprising a cam contact surface, a cam arm connected to the elevator structure and rotatable about a pivot pin, the cam arm having a first side and a second side opposite the first side relative to the pivot pin, an actuator connected to the elevator structure and the first side of the cam arm and configured to rotate the cam arm relative to the pivot pin, and a cam arm bearing pin connected to the second side of the cam arm and configured to press against the cam contact surface of the cam.

Abstract: A method of raising a wheelchair compartment from a non-horizontal ramp position to an approximately horizontal safe position comprises providing a lift mechanism comprising an elevator structure, a wheelchair compartment configured to hold a wheelchair and rotatable from the ramp position to the safe position, a cam connected to the compartment and comprising a cam contact surface, a cam arm connected to the elevator structure and rotatable about a pivot pin, an actuator connected between the elevator structure and the cam arm and configured to rotate the cam arm relative to the pivot pin, and a cam arm bearing connected to the cam arm and configured to press against the cam contact surface of the cam. The method includes operating the actuator when the wheelchair compartment is in the ramp position so as to cause the wheelchair compartment to rise to the safe position.

Abstract: A ramp assembly provides a transition surface from a vehicle interior to an alighting surface. The ramp assembly includes a ramp portion that rotates between a stowed position and a deployed position. The ramp portion is rotatable about an axis associated with a first end of the ramp portion. A support member supports the first end of the ramp portion, and a sensor is configured to sense a predetermined position of the ramp portion. The ramp assembly further includes an actuator operably coupled to the ramp portion to drive the ramp portion through a first phase and a second phase of a deployment motion. During the first phase, the actuator rotates the ramp portion about the axis while the axis maintains a substantially fixed position. During the second phase, the actuator moves the axis in a downward direction if the ramp portion has deployed to at least the predetermined position.

Abstract: A step assembly provides access between a lift platform and an alighting surface. The step assembly includes a tread and a panel rotatably connected to the tread about a first axis. An actuator assembly is operably coupled to the panel to selectively move the step assembly between a raised position and a lowered position. In the raised position, the tread is substantially horizontal, and the panel is orthogonal to the tread. In the lowered position, the tread and the panel are substantially parallel and form a predetermined angle with respect to a horizontal plane.

Abstract: A central pressurized air supply selectively couples pressurized air to one or more dock levelers to pivot a hinged ramp of a dock leveler. Each dock leveler includes an inflatable member to which the pressurized air is selectively coupled, and the inflatable member is arranged to pivot about the hinged ramp of a respective dock leveler. A control system allows continued operation of the system during adverse conditions.

Abstract: A ramp assembly includes a ramp portion configured for reciprocating motion between a stowed position, a deployed position, and a neutral position. The ramp assembly includes a counterbalance comprising a lug associated with the ramp portion so that movement of the ramp portion toward the deployed position moves the lug along an arcuate path in a first direction, and movement of the ramp portion toward the stowed position moves the lug along the arcuate path in a second direction. A flexible line is coupled to the lug, and a restraint is fixedly located relative to the stowed position of the ramp portion. A biasing element is associated with the flexible line such that movement of the ramp portion away from the neutral position moves the biasing element compresses a spring disposed between the restraint and the biasing element.

Abstract: An access apparatus for enabling transfer of personnel between a seaborne vessel and an offshore installation is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a body adapted to be mounted to a deck of a seaborne vessel, clamping members adapted to grip a buffer tube, mounted to a support of an offshore installation, therebetween, to limit vertical movement of the buffer tube relative to the clamping members, wherein the clamping members can pivot relative to the body about a respective single pivot axis extending in at least two mutually perpendicular directions.

Abstract: The invention relates to a bay loading safety device including —an articulated platform (14), whose level can be altered to adapt to the differences in height between a lorry trailer (10) and a loading bay (12),—a door (15) for shutting off access from (13) a building (11) opening onto the bay (12),—a set of buffers (16a, 16b) fixed on either side of the platform (14) to provide protection for the bay (12) when the lorry trailer (10) comes alongside the said bay (12), characterised in that it comprises,—a sensor (31) able to monitor a zone (34), called the crush zone,—a sensor (36) able to determine the distance of the lorry (10) from the bay (12),—an obstacle (35) that can be retracted during the travel of a lorry (10), so as to prevent it from coming alongside the bay (12) depending on whether the whole or part of a fixed or mobile object (17) situated in that zone (34) is present and on the distance of the lorry (10) from the bay (12).

Abstract: A safety system for a truck loading dock with an elevated platform provides an alarm that warns of a hazard at the loading dock such as a forklift operating inside the truck or a falling hazard that may exist due to the dock door being open while a truck is not present at the dock. In cases where a dock's open doorway is protected by a barrier that can be opened or closed, the alarm can be de-activated by closing the barrier. In some examples, the safety system includes a remote body sensor that detects when someone or something is near the doorway. In response to the body sensor, a second, more pronounced alarm can warn of more imminent danger where someone on the platform may be too close to an open doorway when a truck is not present.

Abstract: A ramp assembly includes a ramp portion configured for reciprocating motion between a stowed position, a deployed position, and a neutral position. Movement of the ramp portion toward the deployed position rotates a hub in a first direction, and movement of the ramp portion toward the stowed position rotates the hub in a second. The ramp assembly includes a counterbalance comprising a flexible line having a first end coupled to the hub. A restraint is fixedly located relative to the stowed position of the ramp portion, and a biasing element is associated with the flexible line such that movement of the ramp portion away from the neutral position moves the biasing element toward the restraint. A spring is disposed between the restraint and the biasing element to bias the ramp portion toward the neutral position.

Abstract: A ramp assembly includes a frame assembly, a ramp connected to the frame assembly, a drive member having first and second engagements, and a counterbalance mechanism cooperating with the drive member. The ramp is pivotable relative to the frame assembly and has a deployed position and a stowed position. The drive member is configured to move the ramp between the deployed position and the stowed position. The counterbalance mechanism includes a gas strut having a first end and a second end. The first end of the gas strut is secured to the frame assembly and the second end of the gas strut is movable relative to the frame assembly. The first and second engagements of the drive member are configured to engage the second end of the gas strut.

Abstract: An articulating cage configured to raise and lower with respect to a fixed structure. The articulating cage comprises support structures affixed to the fixed structure and that include one or more springs. The articulating cage includes lifting arms that are pivotally connected to the support structures at one end and to a cage portion at the other end. A load chain connects to the springs at one end and to the lifting arm at the other near to the location where the lifting arm connects to the cage portion.

Abstract: A foldable ramp for evacuation of a vehicle, the ramp including hingedly connected primary and secondary side members, a primary fixed panel fixedly attached the primary side members, a primary flipping panel extending between the primary side members adjacent the primary fixed panel and having a first end pivotally connected to the primary side members and a second end free from the side members, and a secondary flipping panel extending between the secondary side members and having a first end free from the side members and hingedly connected to the second end of the primary flipping panel and a second end pivotally connected to the secondary side members. The ramp is configurable between a folded and a deployed position, with the panels in the deployed position forming a ramp surface and the panels in the folded position being stacked one against the other.

Abstract: An apparatus for transferring a palletized load between a pallet truck and a load wrapping surface may include a ramp configured to support at least a portion of the pallet truck. The ramp may include at least one fixed portion. The ramp may also include a movable portion configured to move relative to the fixed portion. The movable portion may be configured to support one or more wheel assemblies of the pallet truck, and move the one or more wheel assemblies of the pallet truck relative to the fixed portion.

Abstract: Example dock levelers at a truck-loading platform include a stationary curved transition plate extending between a rear edge of the leveler's pivotal deck and a rear edge of a pit at which the leveler is installed. The transition plate has a curved portion that extends underneath the deck's rear edge. The plate provides a smooth transition for forklifts traveling between the platform and the deck, thus reducing and/or minimizing the jarring of the forklift and its driver. To prevent debris and obstructions from getting trapped within the deck's rear hinge, the rear edge of the deck rises up and over the transition plate as the deck pivots upward, thereby providing a self-cleaning effect. With the rear edge of an inclined deck being above the transition plate, water runoff from the deck drains onto the transition plate rather than through the hinge gap to a generally inaccessible area underneath the deck.

Abstract: A ramp assembly provides a transition surface from a vehicle floor to an alighting surface and includes a ramp portion coupled for reciprocating movement between a stowed position and a deployed position. The ramp portion has a cam surface disposed thereon, and a cam follower that engages the cam surface when the ramp portion is in the stowed position to support the ramp portion. The ramp assembly further includes a panel rotatably coupled to a first end of the ramp portion about an axis. An actuator rotates a drive arm to move the ramp portion through first and second phases of a deployment motion. During the first phase, the drive arm rotates the ramp portion about the axis, which maintains a substantially fixed position. During the second phase, the drive arm moves the second axis in a downward direction.

Abstract: The invention relates to a ship, in particular a freight ship, comprising an outer wall and a gangway for embarking and disembarking the ship, which can be moved backwards and forwards between an embarking/disembarking position and a stored position when the ship is being driven. The invention also relates to a ship in which the gangway comprises a base having a lower surface which, when said gangway is in the stored position, is flush with the surface of the outer wall. The invention also relates to a gangway for embarking and disembarking a ship, which is embodied according to the claimed invention for use on a ship.

Abstract: A ramp assembly includes a ramp platform movable for reciprocating motion between a stowed position and a deployed position. The ramp platform has an inner ramp panel, an intermediate ramp panel slidably associated with the inner ramp panel, and an outer ramp panel rotatably associated with the intermediate ramp panel. Movement of the ramp assembly from the stowed position to the deployed position defines a deployment motion that includes (1) rotation of the outer ramp panel through at least 90 degrees relative to the intermediate ramp panel; and (2) translation of the intermediate ramp panel relative to the inner ramp panel. A drive assembly is associated with the ramp platform, the drive assembly being movable to reciprocate the ramp platform between the stowed position and the deployed position.

Abstract: A vessel (1) comprises a roller assembly (32), the assembly comprising at least one roller arranged to bear against a structure to be accessed, the assembly further comprising a damper to inhibit rotation of the roller such that the roller arranged to inhibit relative movement of the vessel to the structure and the vessel further comprising a gangway assembly (10) for a vessel comprising a gangway (12), a pivotably mounted base (20), a sensor arrangement to sense movement of the vessel, an end portion (14) of the gangway pivotably connected to the base and an actuator connected to the gangway responsive to signals from the sensor arrangement to control the vertical position of an opposite end portion (15) of the gangway so as to compensate for vertical movement of the vessel, and the base arranged to respond to and compensate for roll of the vessel.

Abstract: A dock leveler with a pivotal deck includes a stop mechanism that provides the deck with a positive stop at the deck's vertically stored position without the deck's actuator having to be fully extended. With the actuator being less than fully extended, the stop mechanism and actuator can exert opposing forces that help prevent the deck from rocking back and forth as the deck settles to its stationary, upright position. In some cases, the stop mechanism is part of a combination stop-and-lock mechanism that includes a locking device for temporary providing a redundant or alternate lock that prevents the deck from descending unexpectedly while the dock leveler is being serviced or repaired.

Abstract: Exemplary methods are provided for installing a ramp assembly into a vehicle. The vehicle includes a floor, a vehicle well disposed in the floor, and inboard and outboard ramp support members. In one embodiment, ramp assembly mounts, such as movable support fittings, are utilized for installing the ramp assembly into the vehicle.

Abstract: Example dock levelers installed at a vehicle loading dock include pivotal or otherwise vertically adjustable deck plates with special coatings on the deck's upper surface. In some examples, the coating improves traction and addresses various thermal issues, such as condensation and thermal strain between a polymeric coating and a steel deck plate. In some examples, when indoor and outdoor air create a temperature differential across opposite faces of the deck, the coating is designed such that a median temperature of the temperature differential occurs near an interface where the coating bonds to the steel plate's upper surface. In some examples, the coating includes particles of different sizes and colors embedded within and covered by a polymeric base material. As traffic abrades the coating, the different colored particles become exposed at different levels of wear, thereby providing a visual signal indicating when the coating needs to be touched up or replaced.

Abstract: An embodiment of a self-releasing cable lift system may include a latch coupled to a winch and operable to lift an object, such as a gangway, into a secured position before self-releasing after the object is locked into place. Such a latch may be biased to an open position when setting free, but biased to a closed position when acted upon by an outside surface. Thus, the latch includes a first biasing surface that is operable to bias the latch to the closed position when the latch is moved into contact with a latch receptacle in a first direction. Further, the latch includes a second biasing surface that is operable to bias the latch to a closed position when it is moved into contact with a sleeve, in a second direction. In this manner, the latch may engage a gangway, when lowered, but then self-release when the gangway has been raised.

Abstract: Dock levelers, such as mechanical dock levelers, are described herein. In one embodiment, a mechanical dock leveler includes a ramp having a lip pivotally attached to a forward edge. A ramp lifting system is configured to assist upward rotation of the ramp as it is manually raised. In this embodiment, a lip lifting system is operably coupled to the ramp lifting system so that the ramp is initially “downward biased” prior to being raised, and then becomes at least partially supported in a raised position by the lip lifting mechanism, once the lip lifting mechanism is engaged.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1) for a length-changeable ship ramp (2). According to the invention, a part (3) of a telescope (4) forms a driveway surface on the ramp. Furthermore, a device (50) for a ship ramp (2), which has turntables (51, 51A, 51B) between ramp parts (10, 11, 12), has means for locking the turntables of the telescopic ramp parts in order of priority.

Abstract: A shore-to-dock/boat access system is disclosed for use on a body of water with changing water levels. The system may be composed of non-corrosive fiberglass (or fiberglass-like) materials and include numerous installation components: A gangway supporting structure may be affixed to the shore using support members. A moveable gangway structure may be slideably connected to the gangway supporting structure with the assistance of a slider assembly including, inter alia, cam followers, a pivot unit, and/or runner plate. In addition, methods are disclosed for installing and servicing the system.

Abstract: A ramp assembly provides a transition surface from a vehicle interior to an alighting surface. The ramp assembly includes a ramp portion that rotates between a stowed position and a deployed position. A panel is coupled to the ramp portion about a first axis. The ramp assembly further includes a linkage that is coupled to the ramp portion. An actuator is coupled to the linkage to move the ramp portion through a deployment motion. The deployment motion includes a first phase during which the linkage rotates the ramp portion about the first axis. During a second phase of the deployment motion, the linkage moves the first axis from a raised position to a lowered position.

Abstract: A ramp assembly includes but is not limited to a frame, a ramp platform functionally associated with the frame, a stow/deploy mechanism for deploying and stowing the ramp platform, and a drive assembly operatively connected to the stow/deploy mechanism for conditionally actuating the stow/deploy mechanism, which in turn, articulates the ramp platform between the stowed and deployed positions.

Abstract: The present invention provides a dock leveler that: facilitates safe and smooth movement of any driving device by reducing inclination of the dock leveler; and allows easy maintenance by removing a driving unit such as a hydraulic device. The dock leveler comprises a body which is fixed and rotatable on the rear top of an installation space for a dock; and a support unit supporting the body when positioned inside the installation space and sliding toward the front of the body so that the rear of the support unit can be connected to the front of the body when operating as a passage way for a transportation unit or a carrying unit.

Abstract: A post to be used in conjunction with a gangway or other fall restraint equipment where the post defines an aperture having an upper portion and a lower portion such that the upper portion is configured to allow a link of a chain to pass there through while the lower portion allows the link to pass through in one orientation but prevents the link from passing through in a second orientation traverse to the first orientation.

Abstract: A ramp assembly provides a transition surface from a vehicle floor to an alighting surface. The ramp assembly includes a ramp portion that rotates between a stowed position and a deployed position. A panel is rotatably coupled to the ramp portion about a first axis. The ramp assembly further includes an actuator that provides a rotational force to the ramp portion that drives the ramp portion through a deployment motion. The deployment motion includes a first phase during which the rotational force rotates the ramp portion about the first axis. The deployment motion further includes a second phase during which the rotational force moves the first axis in a downward direction.

Abstract: An apparatus that includes a mainframe, first and second adjustment disks, an L-arm, and a drive is provided. The mainframe can associate with a hitch of a vehicle, and the first and second adjustment disks can be connected to respective first and second sides of the mainframe. The L-arm can connect to each of the first and second adjustment disks at a plurality of affixation points, and the drive can be braced between the mainframe and the L-arm so as to be capable of supporting the L-arm in a first position. Dimensions of the vehicle can effect at which affixation point in the plurality of affixation points that the L-arm connects to the first and second adjustment disks.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1) for a length-changeable ship ramp (2). According to the invention, a part (3) of a telescope (4) forms a driveway surface on the ramp. Furthermore, a device (50) for a ship ramp (2), which has turntables (51, 51A, 51B) between ramp parts (10, 11, 12), has means for locking the turntables of the telescopic ramp parts in order of priority.

Abstract: An articulating cage configured to raise and lower with respect to a fixed structure. The articulating cage comprises support structures affixed to the fixed structure and that include one or more springs. The articulating cage includes lifting arms that are pivotally connected to the support structures at one end and to a cage portion at the other end. A load chain connects to the springs at one end and to the lifting arm at the other near to the location where the lifting arm connects to the cage portion.

Abstract: A latch assembly is suitable for a ramp assembly, the ramp assembly having a ramp portion coupled to a fixed portion so that the ramp portion reciprocates between a stowed position and a deployed position. The latch assembly includes a latch pin attached to the ramp portion. The latch assembly further includes a latch fitting coupled to the fixed portion of the ramp assembly. The latch fitting has a hook portion and a tang. The latch fitting selectively reciprocates between a first position, a second position, and a third position. In the first position, the hook engages the latch pin to retain the ramp portion in the stowed position. In the second position, the hook portion is disengaged from the latch pin. In the third position, the tang applies a lifting force to the ramp portion.

Abstract: A dock leveler with a pivotal deck includes a stop mechanism that provides the deck with a positive stop at the deck's vertically stored position without the deck's actuator having to be fully extended. With the actuator being less than fully extended, the stop mechanism and actuator can exert opposing forces that help prevent the deck from rocking back and forth as the deck settles to its stationary, upright position. In some cases, the stop mechanism is part of a combination stop-and-lock mechanism that includes a locking device for temporary providing a redundant or alternate lock that prevents the deck from descending unexpectedly while the dock leveler is being serviced or repaired.

Abstract: An insulative blanket is sized and shaped to cover a dock leveler deck and the gaps between the deck and a surrounding dock platform to prevent the transfer of heat through the deck or across the gaps. A batten structure is combined with the blanket such that the combination forms a relatively rigid structure which can be easily placed and maintained in its desired position. The combination is raised and lowered by an attached line and a suspended overhead container is provided to further collapse the combination as it is raised and stored within the container.

Abstract: A dock leveler with a pivotal deck includes a stop mechanism that provides the deck with a positive stop at the deck's vertically stored position without the deck's actuator having to be fully extended. With the actuator being less than fully extended, the stop mechanism and actuator can exert opposing forces that help prevent the deck from rocking back and forth as the deck settles to its stationary, upright position. In some cases, the stop mechanism is part of a combination stop-and-lock mechanism that includes a locking device for temporary providing a redundant or alternate lock that prevents the deck from descending unexpectedly while the dock leveler is being serviced or repaired.

Abstract: A loading dock leveler with: a base; and a deck with a top platform, the deck having an inward end hingedly mounted to the inward end of the base for movement between an upper position and a lower position; an air compressor having a compressor capacity defined as a predetermined volume of compressed air delivered at a predetermined pressure delivered during a predetermined time period; a pneumatic deck lift actuator, comprising a pneumatic cylinder pivotally connected to the base and to the deck for rotary movement wherein the direct communication between the lift actuator inlet port and the compressor outlet, without a compressed air storage receiver tank, delivers compressed air directly from the compressor to the lift chamber at the compressor capacity within a lift actuation time period, and wherein the lift chamber volume divided by the compressor capacity equals the lift actuation time period.

Abstract: A ramp assembly includes a ramp portion coupled for rotational movement between a stowed position and a deployed position. A first panel is rotatably coupled about a first axis to the ramp portion. A second panel is movable between a lowered position and a raised position. A curbside end of the second panel rotatably associated with a roadside end of the first panel. An actuator drives the ramp assembly through a deployment motion having a first phase and a second phase. During the first phase, the actuator rotates the ramp portion about the first axis. During the second phase, the actuator moves the first axis from a raised position to a lowered position.

Abstract: A ramp assembly has a ramp portion configured for reciprocating movement between a stowed position, a deployed position, and a neutral position. The weight of the ramp portion biases the ramp portion (1) toward the deployed position when the ramp portion is between the deployed position and the neutral position, and (2) toward the stowed position when the ramp portion is between the stowed position and the neutral position. A counterbalance for the ramp assembly includes a cam configured to rotate when the ramp portion moves between the stowed position and the deployed position. A cam follower is slidingly coupled to a guide and engages a surface of the cam so that rotation of the cam translates the cam follower along a path. The counterbalance further includes a resistance member coupled to the cam follower to provide a force to the cam follower to counteract the ramp moment.

Abstract: An adjustable ramp apparatus installed as part of a flat surface, such as a deck, adapted for angular elevation to an inclined position for providing a ramp between the platform level and the entryway door sill level of a trailer-type home. The apparatus is elevated by means of an actuator-driven mechanical linkage located under the surface of the primary ramp platform adjacent to the trailer type home or structure. When the actuator is disengaged, the ramp returns to a lowered position so that the door to the home is not blocked. An alternative embodiment includes a secondary threshold ramp located beneath the surface of the primary ramp platform that moves into place as the apparatus is actuated to fill the gap between the door sill and the elevated primary ramp platform.

Abstract: A manually operated ramp assembly includes a ramp platform and a drive assembly. The ramp platform is moveable between a stowed position and a deployed position, and the drive assembly is coupled to and affords movement of the ramp platform. A shaft extends away from the drive assembly and defines a shaft axis. The shaft is coupled to the drive assembly to cause movement of the ramp platform between the stowed position and the deployed position in response to rotation of the shaft about the shaft axis. A handle is disposed at a distal end of the shaft for manual rotation of the shaft about the shaft axis. A biasing member biases the ramp platform toward the stowed position.

Abstract: A ramp assembly for providing a transition surface from a vehicle floor to an alighting surface includes a ramp position that rotates between a stowed position and a deployed position. A panel is rotatably coupled about an axis to the ramp portion. The ramp assembly further includes a support member that supports a first end of the panel. An actuator drives the ramp assembly through a deployment motion having a first phase and a second phase. During the first phase, the actuator rotates the ramp portion about the axis. During the second phase, the actuator moves the axis in a downward direction.

Abstract: A dock leveler with a deck and an extendable lip that hangs pendant when the deck is in a stored position. A lip extension mechanism engages when the deck is raised to a raised or cocked position. As the deck is lowered to an intermediate transition position, the extension mechanism extends the lip to a fully extended position. At the transition position, the lip extension mechanism automatically disengages and a lip locking mechanism automatically and simultaneously locks and holds the lip in its fully extended position. When the deck is further lowered so that the lip comes to rest on a truck trailer, the locking mechanism automatically released or unlocked. The lip returns to its pendant position when the deck is raised from the truck bed. After the truck pulls away from the dock, the deck is lowered to its stored position.

Abstract: A ramp assembly has a ramp portion configured for reciprocating movement between a stowed position, a deployed position, and a neutral position, and a counterbalance. The counterbalance includes a compression spring and an engagement fitting associated with a first end of the spring. A first bearing element is operably coupled to the ramp portion so that movement of the ramp portion from the neutral position toward the stowed position engages the first bearing element with the engagement fitting to move the first end of the spring toward a second end of the spring. A second bearing element is operably coupled to the ramp portions of that movement of the ramp portion from the neutral position toward the deployed position engages the second bearing element with the engagement fitting to move the first end of the spring toward the second end of the spring.

Abstract: A ramp assembly includes ramp portion coupled for rotational movement between a stowed position and a deployed position. A panel is rotatably coupled at a curbside end to the ramp portion about a first axis. The ramp assembly further includes an elongate drive arm that extends radially from a second axis. The drive arm is operably coupled to the ramp portion and to an actuator. The actuator rotates the drive arm about the second axis to drive the ramp portion through a deployment motion. The deployment motion has a first phase, during which the drive arm rotates the ramp portion about the first axis, and a second phase, during which the drive arm moves the first axis from a raised position to a lowered position.

Abstract: A pivot block connection and assembly is disclosed. The pivot block assembly may include a pivot block connection and a gangway device having a stationary base and a pivotable access that is capable of being raised and lowered. The pivot block connection may include a first support body attached to a first side of the pivotable access, a first pivot bracket attached to the stationary base, and a first pivot rod spacer positioned between the first support body and the first pivot bracket. The pivot block connection may also include a second support body attached to a second side of the pivotable access, a second pivot bracket also attached to the stationary base, and a second pivot rod spacer positioned between the second support body and the second pivot bracket.

Abstract: A system and method for transferring crew members between a first platform and a second platform, at least one of which platforms is subject to movement, is disclosed. The system includes a telescoping-tube assembly having at least three nestable tubes. The tubes are capable of being extended and retracted as well as being selectively locked to ensure that a crew member traversing the tube assembly always travels along a rigid connection between adjacent tubes. A sensor system is used to sense the location and direction of movement of a crew member within the tubes.

Abstract: A vehicular slope apparatus (1) includes a first slope section (10) that is rotatably connected to a body of a vehicle, and a second slope section (20) that is slidably connected to an extension side of the first slope section (10), the first slope section (10) including assistance mechanism (50) that applies an assistance force (Mf) in a direction in which the first slope section (10) rotates upwardly and, the assistance force (Mf) being larger than a downward moment that occurs at a center of gravity (M1) of the entire apparatus (1) when the entire apparatus (1) is horizontalized in a state in which the second slope section (20) is received within the first slope section (10), and is smaller than a downward moment that occurs at a center of gravity (M2) of the entire apparatus (1) when the second slope section (20) is extended from the first slope section (10) to a maximum extent, and the first slope section (10) rotating when the second slope section (20) has been extended to a predetermined extent so that