Safety Device, Platform Associated Patents (Class 182/112)
  • Patent number: 7896132
    Abstract: A multi-level fall protection system for a structure under construction, the structure having reinforced concrete decks including a first deck and a second deck arranged above the first deck and openings provided in the decks. The system includes bearing plates arranged in an associated opening in the first deck and having a flange portion larger than the associated opening. Lateral support blocks are arranged in an associated opening in the second deck. Vertical support posts are detachably secured at a bottom portion to an associated bearing plate and extend upwardly through an associated opening in the second deck. The vertical support posts are supported laterally by the lateral support blocks. At least one flexible support line extends between and is coupled to a pair of the vertical support posts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Inventor: Dennis O'Gorman
  • Publication number: 20100294591
    Abstract: A brick guard 1, being a safety screen 2 to protect against masonry falling from a scaffolding lift. The screen 2 comprises a semi-rigid mesh screen of plastic material having an integral continuous runner portion 5 along a top edge thereof, and is suspended in use by at least two separately moulded hook portions 3. Each hook portion 3 comprises a support portion and at least one retaining member 10, 11, 12, 13, of which the support portion comprises at least one hook member 4 for passing around at least the upper half of the top rail of the scaffolding lift to support the brick guard from that top rail, and the or each retaining member 10, 11, 12, 13, alone or in combination with one or more other such retaining members, releasably clips the support portion to the top edge runner portion 5 of the mesh screen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2008
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Applicant: MIDLAND AND GENERAL SCAFFOLDING LIMITED
    Inventor: Brian John Leadbeater
  • Patent number: 7806231
    Abstract: The present invention provides a safety shield for installation in an aerial bucket. The safety shield provides an adjustable panel which may be extended to a variety of positions to protect a user from unintentional contact with harmful surfaces such as electrical wires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Inventor: Brian Jackson
  • Publication number: 20100181143
    Abstract: A load monitoring system for a mobile work platform includes a load cell (12) having at least one strain gauge (16) and a sensing circuit (14) connected to receive a strain signal from the strain gauge. The sensing circuit (14) includes a first sensing device (24) for sensing the strain in the strain gauge (16), and a second sensing device (26) for sensing a negative shift in the strain signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Inventor: Frank Roger Bowden
  • Patent number: 7735807
    Abstract: A rigging, operable to raise and lower the platform, passes through a restraint device comprising a tension holder. The tension holder comprises a first body having a substantially planar face surface and a rear portion having a divot disposed therein. A second body, substantially similar to the first body; and having a substantially planar face surface; is disposed in a substantially facing arrangement with the first body to permit a line to pass between the substantially planar face surfaces. A lever is disposed in the divot of the first body and is operable to draw together the substantially planar face of the first body and the substantially planar face of the second body whereby friction can be selectively applied to the line when the line is disposed between the substantially planar first surface and said substantially planar second surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: SafeWorks, LLC
    Inventor: David Arevalo Romo
  • Patent number: 7721848
    Abstract: The present invention provides a safety shield for installation in an aerial bucket. The safety shield provides an adjustable panel which may be extended to a variety of positions to protect a user from unintentional contact with harmful surfaces such as electrical wires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Inventor: Brian Jackson
  • Publication number: 20100122872
    Abstract: An elevator for use by masons with a scaffold structure. A group of lifts are arranged in horizontally spaced relation. Each lift includes a rail secured to the scaffold structure, a shuttle movable along the rail, a winch mounted to the shuttle, and a cable running from the scaffold top to the winch. Decks are supported by the shuttles to provide intermediate working platforms. Benches are supported by the shuttles for storing materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2009
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Inventor: Peter KOREVAAR
  • Publication number: 20100096214
    Abstract: The present invention relates to scaffold safety apparatuses that allow a construction worker to safely tie-off while erecting a scaffold. The present invention allows the worker to move across one or more scaffold sections without having to disengage the safety line. In one embodiment, the safety apparatus (e.g. safety device or safety mount) includes two offset elongated members disposed in essentially parallel directions, wherein at least one of these two elongated members has a device that engages a safety line. The safety apparatus also has a connector that connects one elongated member to the other elongated member, and an attachment for securing at least one elongated member to the scaffold. The present invention additionally pertains to a scaffold safety system that includes one or more safety apparatuses, and a safety line; safety scaffolds, kits and methods for using same.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2009
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Inventor: Roger Langsmead
  • Publication number: 20100044152
    Abstract: A blow-molded plastic female interconnection system has a receiving section and a locking section. The receiving section receives a male interconnect. The receiving section has a floor aperture shaped to allow the corresponding male interconnect be pushed into the locking section. The floor aperture can have various shapes depending on the shape of the male interconnect. Within the receiving section is a locking projection on the receiving section's back wall and the locking projection has a bottom section that defines a portion of the ceiling of the locking section which has no back wall. When the male interconnect is being pushed into the locking section, the locking projection deforms due to the locking sections no back wall. When the male interconnect is below the locking projection, the locking projection bottom section is positioned on the male interconnect to securely interconnect the male and female units.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2008
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Applicant: CONFER PLASTICS, INC.
    Inventor: Daid J. Lipniarski
  • Patent number: 7665948
    Abstract: An anti-injury protection device for hydraulic lifting platforms of good-lifts, air platforms and similar includes tetrahedral structures (1) that may be applied for protection of the edges of sharp boards (P) of good-lifts, air platforms and similar, from which telescopic structures (6) are projecting for the protection of the edges, and of light devices (7) which get automatically started when they get into contact with the surface of the plane to be protected; in the lower part of the structures (1), horizontally pivoted planes (4, 5) are provided, kept in resting position by magnets or other and which, once opened, add their own fluorescence to the intermittent danger light signal placed on top of the tetrahedron so as to attract and contemporarily call the attention for showing the obstacle and the dangerous area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Inventor: Paolo Castorino
  • Publication number: 20100032236
    Abstract: A fall arrest system for a billboard is disclosed. The billboard may have horizontally extending ribs and vertically extending sprits. A first bracket and a second bracket, each having a horizontal portion and a vertical portion, are provided. The horizontal portion extends beyond the billboard. The vertical portion has channels for receiving the ribs therein. At least one mechanical fastener connects the brackets to the ribs. An arresting line extends from the first bracket to the second bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2009
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventors: Bruce Morris, Denny Neiderkohr, Tonya Breidenbach, Tom Troiano
  • Publication number: 20100025151
    Abstract: This system consists of; support pieces (1, 1a) intended to be permanently fixed to the structure of the construction, interchangeable supports (30) fitted with a fixing device (4) for attachment to any of the support pieces (1, 1a) and with means of attachment for safety devices or load-bearing devices, intermediate supports (5, 14, 18) that can be coupled to the interchangeable supports and safety elements that can be coupled to the intermediate supports and/or the interchangeable supports. These protective elements include: head pieces (6) of lifelines, modular masts, angled brackets for attaching safety nets (9), protective canopies, safety guard masts (15), telescopic baseboards (16), extendible railings (17) and auxiliary railings (19).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2005
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Inventor: Jose Ramon Guinart Pallares
  • Publication number: 20090218165
    Abstract: An assembly allowing a person to climb up and/or down an object, such as a high-voltage mast comprises an elongate, rail-type profiled element (1, 3, 5, 15, 17) that is provided with at least one guiding part (15, 17) extending along the profiled element, and a part for absorbing force transmission (3, 5, 15, 17). A climbing aid is also provided, comprising two climbing consoles (21) with one respective foot supporting area (23) and a guiding section that embraces or grips the guiding part (15, 17) and a holding section (33) which at least partly rests against or on the profiled element opposite hereto and is suitable for resting against the force transmitting part (3, 5, 15, 17) in order to absorb force transmission.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2006
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Inventors: Andreas Maurer, Pascal Mosetti, Dajan Trajkovic
  • Publication number: 20090188751
    Abstract: A fall protection device for protecting a person from a fall from a surface includes a lower saddle and an upper saddle configured for coupling to a column, the lower and upper saddles include tongues projecting from sides thereof. An aperture is formed in the tongue of the upper saddle and the lower saddle includes a stop structure. An elongated safety post is configured for removably engaging the saddles so the lower end of the post rests against the stop structure. A tie-off structure is mounted on the upper end of the post. The tie-off structure is configured to rotate around the upper end of the post, and includes a platform portion for supporting a restraining device coupled to a worker.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2008
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Inventor: Virgil Douglas Gilliam
  • Publication number: 20080236944
    Abstract: Device for supporting a platform that is used to lift loads or persons the height of a structure. Together with a platform, the inventive device includes winch-type platform-lifting elements and modular assemblable mast-forming elements. Each mast element is installed using the load platform which can be connected to the masts by: (i) the aforementioned winch-type lifting elements which can be disconnected at will from the masts, and (ii) elements for temporarily blocking the movement of the platform in relation to a modular element of each mast. In this way, when the movement of the platform is blocked, a modular element can be added to, or removed from the top of the masts in accordance with the desired platform lifting height. The platform is positioned between two modular independent masts which form a lifting and guiding path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2005
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventor: Bruno Patron
  • Publication number: 20080041662
    Abstract: A post support assembly for an adjustable safety rail barricade is comprised of a universal flat attachment base plate to which a post is secured. The post support has a post connector pivotally connected to a guide bracket. The post connector has an open top end to receive a post therein in a detachably securable fashion. The flat attachment base plate has a pair of opposed side connecting arms disposed on opposed sides of a central connecting arm. At least two spaced-apart incline slots are provided in the side and central connecting arms and are all inclined in a common direction and at a common angle and have a lower open end. The inclined slots in the side connecting arms are spaced apart at predetermined distance. Preferably, but not exclusively, the post support is for a safety rail barricade to be used by roofers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: Jean Despres
  • Patent number: 7194358
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to systems, devices and methods for avoiding collisions and detecting objects proximate to a surface. In one embodiment, a system for collision avoidance includes at least one sensor adapted to sense an object above a lift device and a controller linked to the at least one sensor and linked to the drive components of the device and adapted to interrupt operation of the lift drive when the lift device approaches or touches the object. In another aspect of the invention, at least one controller is linked between at least one hand control and at least one drive adapted to move a lift device, the controller being adapted to interrupt operation of the drive when the lift device approaches or touches an object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Michael L. Callaghan, Jerry A. James, Shankar N. Swamy, James J. Troy, Steven C. Venema
  • Patent number: 7150361
    Abstract: A restraining cable and rack system comprises material-bay dividers with cable restraints that can be laced-through, end-attached, and adjusted to a variety of heights on vertical bars. Long sticks or sheets of material are stood on-end inside the bays for retail display. The restraining cables are positioned to prevent the retail material from falling out of the bays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Inventor: Michael J. Calleja
  • Patent number: 7140808
    Abstract: A catwalk is provided for use in trenching operations that provides increased safety and improves efficiency. Methods are also provided that save time over the prior process of building multiple land bridges. Selected features include reduction in the number of ladders used increases worker safety, along with several other safety features such as catwalk railings, holding devices for ladders, etc. One catwalk is shown with a skid assembly to further increases efficiency by allowing the trench box to be towed with the catwalk in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Inventor: John Raspotnik
  • Patent number: 6931793
    Abstract: A roof scuttle safety railing system is provided for an existing or new roof scuttle which railing may be installed on the roof scuttle by unskilled labor without compromising the integrity of the weather seal of the roof scuttle. In one embodiment, pivotal corner brackets are secured to the capflashing of a roof scuttle with the vertical members of the safety railing being inserted in openings in the brackets. In another embodiment, an elongated bracket is used along two opposed sides of the roof scuttle which brackets are firmly held against the outside walls of the roof scuttle by tie rods, a strap or a cable. The elongated bracket has vertical openings at its distal ends for securing the vertical members of the safety railing and horizontal openings or slots for the tie rods, straps or cables. A hinged gate is also provided which preferably has a self-closing hinge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: The Bilco Company
    Inventors: Roger F. Joyce, Donald Barker, Kenneth R. Gleason, James G. Gleason
  • Patent number: 6932194
    Abstract: A first embodiment of a safety rail for a folding scaffolding cart comprises a single hollow metal tube having two longitudinal ends and shaped to have three smooth 90 degree bends to fit diagonal posts of a folding scaffold. The portable scaffolding cart is a folding platform supported by a rectangular framework having four vertical tube supports with one support tube at each corner. Each support tube has lockable wheels. The vertical supports extend above the platform. The safety rail of the platform connects in an overlapping arrangement to the supports. Alternatively, self-tapping screw fasteners can secure the safety rail. The safety rail is a single shaped tube. Three smooth 90 degree bends in the safety rail allow it to extend upward from a first support, around the perimeter of the platform and back down to a diagonal second support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Inventor: Gary Chipman
  • Publication number: 20030051429
    Abstract: There is provided a roof safety system for facilitating a unencumbered lateral movement of a user's safety tether line along a length of a roof truss. The system comprises first and second elongated anchor members that are respectively positioned at first and second locations along the length of the roof truss. Moreover, a tension line is engaged to the first and second elongated members to extend therebetween and is further slidably connectable by the user's safety tether line. By doing so, the tension line facilitates the unencumbered lateral movement of the user's safety tether line between the first and second positions along the length of the roof truss.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: Fred E, Hovenier
  • Patent number: 6272800
    Abstract: A protective device is provided to prevent humans from accidentally falling through openings in roofs or floors, including the domes of curb-mounted skylights and temporary utility chases that are surrounded by a raised curb. The protective device is secured to the raised curb by clamps that do not penetrate the curb, skylight frame, floor or roof, and therefore do not compromise the water-tight integrity thereof. In the case of an opening type skylight, by securing the protective device to the curb, no interference is contributed to the skylight to hinder the opening mechanism of the skylight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Inventors: Peter R. Phinney, Timothy L. Ahner
  • Patent number: 6186274
    Abstract: A motorized safety system which protects the open side of a mezzanine, loading dock or other elevated work area when in use. The safety system is easy to use while requiring only minimal floor space. The safety system comprises two posts, each post having a motor mounted on the top of the post, a control unit for controlling and sychronizing motor operation mounted on the side of one post, a movable arm having a safety net and associated hardware such that when the safety system is in a first position the opening of the mezzanine or loading dock is substantially covered by the net. When the safety system is in a second position, the arm and net are out of the way, allowing access by workers and machinery to and from the open side. The operation of the safety system from the first position to the second position or vice versa is performed remotely using a wireless hand held device that transmits instructions to the control unit, thus further reducing the risk of falling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: Bay Nets, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles Gregory Reynolds, William G. Kiniry
  • Patent number: 6098750
    Abstract: A safety system which protects the open side of a mezzanine, loading dock or other elevated work area when in use. The safety system is easy to use while requiring only minimal floor space. The safety system comprises two posts, a movable arm having a safety net and associated hardware such that when the safety system is in a first position the opening of the mezzanine or loading dock is substantially covered by the net. When the safety system is in a second position, the arm and net are out of the way, allowing access by workers and machinery to and from the open side. The operation of the safety system from the first position to the second position or vice versa is performed remotely from the open side, thus further reducing the risk of falling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Bay Nets, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles Gregory Reynolds, William K. Kiniry
  • Patent number: 5988341
    Abstract: An input shaft bearing retainer for use in a vehicle transmission assembly maintains an input bearing in a desired position without the use of external fasteners such as bolts. The bearing retainer includes an exterior portion having a radially extending flange that is engaged between a transmission case outer wall and a clutch housing outer wall. Since the clutch housing outer wall remains fixed relative to the outer wall of the transmission case, the input bearing retainer is also maintained in place. The interface between an opening through the transmission case and the bearing retainer includes a seal member in the form of an O-ring to maintain a fluid tight seal at the opening of the transmission case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: Meritor Heavy Vehicle Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Kevin M. Allen, Kenneth T. Picone, Peggy M. Garrett
  • Patent number: 5967258
    Abstract: A guardrail assembly for use on an elevated work platform includes a plurality of pivotally interconnected rail sections mounted on each side of the open front end of the work platform for movement between a collapsed position against the sides of the platform and an extended position. In the extended position, the sections define an enclosure on an elevated work surface, e.g. the top of a railcar or the wing of an airplane, and latches releasably lock outer free ends of the rail sections together. Vertically movable feet on the sections stabilize the assembly on the work surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Assignee: Mobilift Inc.
    Inventors: Jay G. Scott, Larry Dobson
  • Patent number: 5941024
    Abstract: A floor hatch with a built-in security fence is described, where access to the understructure can only be provided wherein a pair of doors are pivoted outwardly to an open position and secured, forming two opposite sides of the security fence; a first gate is pivoted outwardly to an open position and secured to each of the doors, forming the rear of the security fence and a second gate, leaving a pivoting door, is pivoted outwardly and secured to each of the doors forming the front of the security fence. The pivoting door of the second gate pivots outwardly to permit access to the opening in the floor. The floor hatch may also include a security grate and telescoping extension on each of the doors. The floor hatch can be locked in the closed position and can be opened, automatically forming a security fence, to permit access to an understructure of a floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Assignee: Journault-Jourplex Inc.
    Inventor: Jules Journault
  • Patent number: 5775463
    Abstract: A toeboard system for a deckplate is comprised of a toeboard member that includes an upper section extending above the deckplate, a central section having a deck opening configured to receive a side edge of the deckplate and a lower section. The toeboard system further includes a spacer member having a lower deck contact surface, the spacer member being fastened to the toeboard member below the deck opening of the central section by a mating opening on one member and a mating projection on the other member. The upper section of the toeboard member has an upper deck contact surface that is substantially flat and extends substantially perpendicular to a sidewall of a central section of the toeboard, an inboard surface which is substantially perpendicular to and intersecting with the upper deck contact surface and an outboard surface which is arcuate and convergent with the inboard surface at an edge remote from the upper deck contact surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Assignee: Alumax Extrusions, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert A. Alberts
  • Patent number: 5219039
    Abstract: A system for preventing a worker from falling off of a billboard. The system comprises a safety rope and a pair mounting assemblies formed of interconnected links. Each mounting assembly is mounted adjacent a respective side of the billboard and comprises a connector connected between the links for securing the rope thereto. Each of the mounting assemblies is movable between and stowed position and an extended position and vice versa. Each connector is located closely adjacent the rear surface of the billboard when its associated mounting assembly is in the stowed position, and is located spaced in front of the front of the billboard when its associated mounting assembly is in the extended position. The rope is connected tautly between the connectors when the mounting assemblies are in the extended position to serve as a sliding anchor point to which a safety device, e.g., safety belt or harness, worn by a worker may be releasably secured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1993
    Inventor: Michael Bell
  • Patent number: 5181583
    Abstract: A ladder-like stilt, designed to be used in pairs, particularly for ceiling work such as sheetrocking as shown. Two pairs of side rails are joined at a conventional head step area. The area of the otherwise conventional head step is extended by the employment of an elongated head step platform to which a boot is attached for accepting the user's foot. The downwardly projection of the head step platform falls within the footing defined by the distal ends of the side rails, thus providing a stable platform for standing, when the stilts are used in pairs. The boot allows the user to walk on the stilts and perform elevated work, while being able to quickly dismount and climb down the steps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1993
    Inventor: Stuart M. Platt
  • Patent number: 5150766
    Abstract: An anchor system and method of use for securement to a fixed anchor point at an elevated position on a structure. The system comprises a rope arranged to be extended between the elevated position and a lower position, and slidable connection device. The connection device is arranged to be releasably secured to the fixed anchor point and comprises a flexible tubular member woven of strands of fibers. The tubular member has a pair of ends, each of which includes an extension projecting therefrom. Each extension is bent back over itself and inserted into the tubular member to form a loop. A connector is mounted on one of the loops and is arranged to be releasably secured to the fixed anchor. The rope extends through the tubular member, with the tubular member having a sufficiently large internal diameter that the rope may slide therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1992
    Inventor: Michael Bell
  • Patent number: 4981196
    Abstract: A protective device is disclosed for use with a scaffolding platform of the type which is suspended from an upright structure by means of and movable along at least one cable. The protective device protects an exposed zone of the cable adjacent to the platform against damage. The device comprises a weighted sleeve and means for selectively opening and re-closing the weighted sleeve so that it may be placed around the cable at the exposed zone and thereby protect the same. The weighted sleeve follows said platform under the influence of gravity as the platform is moved along the cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 1, 1991
    Inventor: Richard Palm
  • Patent number: 4858726
    Abstract: Scaffolding module comprising one or more substantially planar frames to receive building materials. Each frame is supported, in use, in a substantially horizontal position by four parallel support members. Each frame and the support members are pivotable relative to each other. Hence, the module can be folded between a reduced volume storage configuration in which each frame lies alongside the support members and an operational configuration in which each frame extends perpendicularly to the support members. A method of erecting scaffolding using the described modules is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 22, 1989
    Inventor: John C. Preston
  • Patent number: 4793438
    Abstract: A safety device from a scaffold latch, providing a movable abutment arm which is supported to have two positions, a first position providing a blocking abutment which blocks latch-releasing withdrawal movement of the latch pin, and a second position in which it permits such latch-release movement of the latch pin, the abutment arm being co-operative with the release lever of the latch assembly to cause its movement to its second position automatically as the latch release lever is being actuated; and a spring automatically holds the safety's abutment arm in its first (pin-blocking) position unless the pin-release lever is being actuated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 27, 1988
    Inventor: Eugene D. Perry
  • Patent number: 4773506
    Abstract: Scaffolding module comprising one or more substantially planar frames (3, 15) to receive building materials: each frame (3, 15) is supported in use in a substantially horizontal position by four substantially parallel support members (2) and each frame (3, 15) and the support members (2) are pivotable relative to each other. Hence, the module (1) can be folded between a reduced volume storage configuration in which each frame (3, 15) lies alongside the support members (2) and an operational configuration in which each frame (3, 15) extends substantially perpendicularly to the support members (2). A method of erecting scaffolding using the described modules is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1986
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1988
    Inventor: John C. Preston
  • Patent number: 4759306
    Abstract: A supporting assembly (10) for securing a persons hand to the sail wishbone of a sailboard includes a connected assembly (11) having a pair of mounting devices (14, 15) which may be fitted adjustably about the thumb and wrist, respectively, a connector portion (18) adapted to pass behind the wishbone, and a retention device or bar (16) for retention by finger pressure. Connector portion (18) is formed of flexible resilient material such that upon release of retention device (16) the connector portion momentarily tends to straighten and disengage from the wishbone. A body harness or cable may be secured to connection (23). Alternative forms of the supporting assembly (10) which do not differ substantially from the preferred alternative are also disclosed. The supporting assembly is adapted for use in other sports, for example by gymnasts, or in industry, for example by riggers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1986
    Date of Patent: July 26, 1988
    Inventor: Peter H. H. McKenzie
  • Patent number: 4644329
    Abstract: A workmen protecting safety light for roof perimeter edge protection includes a pair of invisible light beam units, one bearing a light beam source and the other being a light beam receiver/control, and a relay box together with audio warning and signalling apparatus. Supporting structure includes a base support frame, a sub-base, tripod support, vertically and horizontally adjustable support pipes and clamping structures. All the foregoing are combined to provide an easily, quickly and accurately installed perimeter safety light protection device. A plurality of specially sized and marked pipes, support brackets for the light units, and specific adjusting/clamping structures are all important features of the invention. Preferably, the units are supplied in kit form and, therefore, suitable containers are provided for holding same in compact, easily shippable and stored form, ready for quick and easy assembly at a job site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1984
    Date of Patent: February 17, 1987
    Assignee: Butler Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Ralph H. Brueske
  • Patent number: 4560029
    Abstract: A security device for providing a detachable and adjustable connection of a workman's safety belt lanyard to a safety line or the like. The device includes a pair of vertically spaced pivotally mounted cams having serrated cam faces directed into a vertical channel adapted to receive a safety line. The cams are joined by a link to maintain their parallel relation and are spring loaded toward a line engaging position. A pivoted eye connected to the link provides an attachment point for a lanyard. The frame of the device includes pivotally connected front and rear frame portions which may be opened to apply the device to or remove it from a safety line. A latch mechanism provides a secure locking of the frame portions in their closed line clamping position, but may be readily released to allow removal of the device from a line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1984
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1985
    Assignee: WGM Safety Corp.
    Inventor: George C. Dalmaso
  • Patent number: 4462484
    Abstract: A tension sensing device for scaffolds suspended by at least one hoist cable is described. The tension sensing device generally comprises a support structure adapted to be secured to the scaffold and having guide means for directing the hoist cable through the device, lever arm means for sensing the tension on the hoist cable, and switch means for detecting a slack cable or a strained cable condition. The support structure includes a cover plate assembly with at least one section of the cover plate assembly constructed from a transparent material so that the tension on the hoist cable may also be visually observed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1981
    Date of Patent: July 31, 1984
    Assignee: Platforms and Power, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard E. Crudele
  • Patent number: 4354578
    Abstract: A system and clamp for supporting a load such as an elevator in which the clamp is mounted on a cable above the load which is normally supported by and otherwise attached to the cable. The clamp supports the load in the event of failure of structure normally supporting the load between the clamp and load. The clamp includes two members defining between them an extending passage for the cable with one of the members being mounted for movement toward and away from the cable. A cam member is pivotably mounted with a cam surface at a variable radius from the pivot axis in engagement with the one member and attached by cable to the load to pivot and apply a force to the one member to frictionally lock the clamp to the cable and support the load in the event of failure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1980
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1982
    Inventor: Glenn E. Gray
  • Patent number: 4237999
    Abstract: This device is associated with a scaffolding suspended from at least two winches and is adapted to automatically control a safety mechanism when the scaffolding is inclined beyond a predetermined limit angle to the horizontal. The scaffolding is pivoted at each end to a stirrup rigid with the safety device which is suspended to the hoisting cable through a link. A push-member rigid with the scaffolding engages, when the scaffolding is inclined, a connecting rod which actuates a lever for clamping the jaws on a safety cable passing through the safety device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1979
    Date of Patent: December 9, 1980
    Assignee: Tractel, S.A.
    Inventor: Bernard Batreau
  • Patent number: 4225012
    Abstract: An improved safety clamp device for use with movable platforms and the like includes a body member having a safety cable receiving cradle, a lever arm having a safety cable engaging portion, an elongate member carrying a pulley at either end, and a control arm. The control arm is in the form of a modified bellcrank having one arm portion pivotally connected to the body member, its apex connected to the elongate member and a pulley connected to a second arm portion. The lower end of the elongate member is rigidly connected to the movable platform. A drive or support cable passes on one side of the two pulleys on the elongate member and on the other side of the control arm pulley. The elongate member is maintained in a first position relative to the body member such that the safety cable engaging portion confronts but does not engage the safety cable when the drive or support cable is subjected to a predetermined tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1979
    Date of Patent: September 30, 1980
    Assignee: International Telephone and Telegraph Corporation
    Inventor: Durward J. Hindle
  • Patent number: 4181194
    Abstract: An improved safety clamp device for use with movable platforms and the like includes a body member having a safety cable receiving cradle, a lever arm having a safety cable engaging portion, the lever arm being pivotally connected to the body member and pivotally connected to an elongate bar member, and a modified bellcrank. The modified bellcrank has a first arm pivotally connected to the body member, a second arm pivotally coupled to a hoist line, and its apex pivotally connected to the elongate bar member. When the elongate bar member is in a first position relative to the body member, the safety cable engaging portion confronts but does not engage the safety cable. When the elongate bar member is in a second position relative to the body member, the safety cable engaging portion engages the safety cable thereby wedging the safety cable between the cradle and the safety cable engaging portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1978
    Date of Patent: January 1, 1980
    Assignee: International Telephone and Telegraph Corporation
    Inventors: James H. Bassett, Paul L. King
  • Patent number: 4129197
    Abstract: An adjustable scaffolding system adaptable to the progressive growth of a building during construction has a series of spaced uprights, each having a plurality of vertically disposed slots for the sliding engagement of the edges of a plurality of frames. The frames and a third slot on the uprights engage fastening means protruding beyond the edge of a floor slab of the building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1977
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1978
    Inventor: John C. Preston
  • Patent number: 4106753
    Abstract: The device, adapted to be associated with a motorized hauling installation, comprises a self-clamping jaws block with a safety cable passing through it onto which the load can be transferred by clamping the jaws. The jaws block is connected by means of control rods to a mobile chassis of which one end is adapted to pivot, in case of a fall, about a fixed point of the casing, this pivoting action activating an electric detector which stops the machine motor. (FIG. 1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1976
    Date of Patent: August 15, 1978
    Assignee: Europe-Levage Manutention (Elma)
    Inventors: Michel Cavalieri, Francois Batreau
  • Patent number: 4041646
    Abstract: A rotatable gate floor entrance has one or two gates which are pivotably attached at a lower corner to a post structure connected to a floor. The gate or gates rotate in a vertical plane from an open to a closed position. When a single gate is used, a gate lock connects the gate to a second vertical post. When two gates are used, the first gate is rotatably connected at a lower corner to a first post support and the second gate is attached in similar fashion to a second vertical post. Both the first and second gates rotate in a vertical plane and, when placed in a closed position, have side edges which abut one another. The two gates are locked in this position by upper and lower channel members mounted to the gates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1975
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1977
    Assignee: Aurora Equipment Company
    Inventor: Douglas C. Mittag
  • Patent number: 4022026
    Abstract: A safety shield attachment for protecting machine operators from debris or cave-ins from above has a canopy which is pivotally supported at one end, but normally retained in a fixed position over an operator's station, and a platform pivotally supported at one end, the other end of which can be suspended from the canopy at a fixed level therebelow or allowed to rest upon the ground in a "free-floating" condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1976
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1977
    Inventor: Ray Childress
  • Patent number: 4015686
    Abstract: A portable multi-stage lift has a winch-operated reeving system operable from ground level or from the lift carriage. The stages of the lift mast slidingly interfit front to back and each has the same cross-section shaped to be formed of a single extrusion. Provision is made for automatically locking the lift stages and carriage together if the cable in the reeving system were to fail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1975
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1977
    Inventor: Sherman W. Bushnell, Jr.
  • Patent number: 3967694
    Abstract: A collapsible platform adapted to be erected in shallow water for surf fishing. Bearing plates connected to the lower ends of extensible legs stabilize a support panel to which a folding chair is hingedly connected. The platform is anchored in place by a handle operated actuating rod connected to a screw element adapted to penetrate the supporting sand formation below the water surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1974
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1976
    Inventor: Martin Y. Woolfolk, Sr.