Abstract: A maintenance device for remotely maintaining the inside of a structure, for example, by deploying a maintenance tool to remotely clean, sandblast using various blast media, and/or paint an interior surface of a building structure.

Abstract: A lift device comprises a base, a retractable lift mechanism, a work platform, a linear actuator, and a lift controller. The base has a plurality of wheels. The retractable lift mechanism has a first end coupled to the base and is moveable between an extended position and a retracted position. The work platform is configured to support a load. The work platform is coupled to and supported by a second end of the retractable lift mechanism. The linear actuator is configured to selectively move the retractable lift mechanism between the extended position and the retracted position. The lift controller is configured to monitor at least one lift characteristic associated with the linear actuator and to determine whether an actuator failure has been detected based on the at least one lift characteristic associated with the linear actuator.

Abstract: A hydraulic crane comprising: —a rotatable column (7); —a crane boom system comprising a first crane boom (11) connected to the column; and —an electronic control device for controlling the movement of the column and the crane boom system on the basis of control signals from a manoeuvring unit and a calculation model for boom tip control. The control device is configured to switch from a first control mode into a second control mode when the first crane boom is about to interfere with an obstacle. In the first control mode, the control device controls the crane boom movements in accordance with an ordinary control strategy. In the second control mode, the control device makes the load suspension point (P) of the crane boom system move along the trajectory defined by said control signals while controlling the crane boom movements in accordance with an auxiliary control strategy in which the first crane boom is prevented from interfering with the obstacle.

Abstract: A parking garage for motor vehicles that can be easily, quickly and cost-effectively erected, and makes efficient use of limited space, in particular a multistory garage, is proposed, comprising a ground floor level and at least one parking floor level located above the ground floor level, a support structure with a shaft, at least one conveyor for the essentially vertical transport of motor vehicles, the conveyor being situated in the shaft of the support structure, the at least one parking floor level comprising at least one parking place for at least one motor vehicle, the parking garage being designed for transferring a motor vehicle between the conveyor and a parking position on the at least one parking place, the transfer being powered by the motor vehicle itself, such that a first side of at least one of the parking floor levels is located on the support structure.

Abstract: A method of constructing a structure in which an item is to be installed at an elevated height on the structure. Hoists are hung from the structure. A platform is moved from ground level and positioned at a first elevated position between ground level and the hoists. The platform is attached to the hoists at the first elevated position. After the platform has been attached to the hoists, the item is moved onto the platform. The item is lifted on the platform to a second elevated position for installation at the elevated height on the structure and the item is installed at the elevated height.

Abstract: A mobile communications site, comprising: a vertical mounting structure resting on an underlying surface; a platform mounted to the vertical mounting structure; one or more electronic communications components mounted on the platform; and an elevation mechanism attached to the platform and configured to move the platform relative to the mounting structure between raised and lowered positions relative to the underlying surface.

Abstract: An optical hazard detection system is described that may be used with an aerial device. The optical hazard detection system is utilized for determining a hazard in proximity thereto. The system comprises an optical sensor and a controller. The optical sensor is configured to capture optical images. The controller is configured to acquire the optical images from the optical sensor. The controller is also configured to identify a hazard at least in part from the optical images and to establish a hazard zone to prevent the utility platform from striking the hazard. The hazard zone is within a deployable range for the aerial device.

Abstract: The disclosed subject matter is directed to a hydraulic steering shear-fork aerial work platform that comprises a running chassis and a lifting device. The running chassis includes a chassis body and a running device that comprises a left wheel carrier, a right wheel carrier, a linkage frame, and a steering oil cylinder. The left wheel carrier and the right wheel carrier are rotatably installed on the chassis body through wheel carrier shafts. The two ends of the linkage frame are respectively hinged to the left wheel carrier and the right wheel carrier. One end of the steering oil cylinder is installed at one end of the linkage frame, and the other end of the steering oil cylinder is fixedly connected with the wheel carrier shaft through an installing plate.

Abstract: A support apparatus to secure a mass loaded vinyl roll on a scaffold above a ground surface dispenses mass loaded vinyl from the roll with enhanced efficiency for an application on a wall. The support apparatus includes a frame assembly having a pair of upright legs coupled to a generally horizontal bar, each upright leg in the pair of upright legs having a top end with a U-shaped member coupled thereto, a pair of clamps mounted to the horizontal bar to secure the frame to the scaffold, and a spool bar coupled to the U-shaped members of the pair of upright legs and designed to secure the mass loaded vinyl roll thereon.

Abstract: An automatic scaffold for reaching buildings during construction, repair, dyeing, coating, and maintenance. The automatic scaffold includes a scaffold module which has a stack of module layers. Movable columns open the scaffold modules by a drive unit so as to generate a distance between the module layers, wherein the distance is approximately of 2-meter height in which one person can comfortably work, and wherein the movable columns are respectively an outer carrier column which carries the scaffold module upwardly with the movement generated by the drive unit, and an inner movable column which is located inside the outer carrier column and linked to the outer carrier column via a control rod of the drive unit. Each module layer has vertical and horizontal rods, a carrier plate, and guide elements for fixing the vertical rods to the carrier plate.

Abstract: A suspended scaffolding system (100) including a connector system (32,33) adapted to engage a track (31) which in use is in contact with the surface of a structure (30), an arm (34, 39) connects the suspended scaffolding system to the connector system, so in use the suspended scaffolding system is suspended below the structure. In a first embodiment, the connector system has connectors that permit relative movement with respect to the track in two orthogonal planes. In a second embodiment a moveable counterweight (37) is provided on the suspended scaffolding system, adapted to be displaced from a first position to a second position to change the center of gravity of the suspended scaffolding system. In a third embodiment, a track connector system is provided comprising at least three fasteners each of which is in contact with the track and adapted to be temporarily removed from the track to permit the suspended scaffolding system to negotiate obstacles.

Abstract: The disclosed principles provide a personal moveable, automated lift mechanism. In one embodiment of an automated personal lift as disclosed herein, the lift may comprise an outer frame comprising a horizontal base support and an outer handrail supported above a perimeter of the horizontal base support by a plurality of outer vertical supports coupled to the horizontal base support, the outer handrail comprising a first opening having a width sufficient for a human user to step through. Such an exemplary lift may also comprise an inner frame positioned within the outer frame and comprising a horizontal platform configured to support the user and an inner handrail supported above a perimeter of the platform by a plurality of inner vertical supports coupled to the platform, the inner handrail comprising a second opening aligned with the first opening in the outer handrail.

Abstract: An adjustable platform assembly for supporting workers and supplies about an elevated work site, the platform assembly being movably supported on an articulable support, the platform comprising a stationary rear bridging panel arrangement having an elongated side platform member comprising a floor and railing assembly at each end thereof, wherein each elongated side platform member floor and railing assembly is independently movable on support members forwardly, rearwardly, transversely and angularly with respect to the bridging panel arrangement, to change the platform assembly back and forth between a generally “H” shape to a generally “U” shape, or any skewed combination thereof, as required.

Abstract: The present invention relates to equipment intended to moving people in height in non-horizontal surfaces, allowing their translation vertically and horizontally, comprising a chute with a docking and fixing system, engine for the horizontal displacement engine for the vertical displacement, suspension cable for the harness of the operator, wireless control and safeguarding system for rescue and recovery.

Abstract: A mobile platform has a separate and independent linear actuator pivotally connected near each opposite end of the platform where there is a contact limit switch that when triggered by contact with the side of a flatbed, stops movement of the actuator, and thus stops movement of the platform, toward the side of the flatbed. Because each of the two actuators is pivotally connected to its respective end of the platform and moves independently of the other, each end of the platform can stop moving toward the flatbed before or after, depending on how the flatbed is misaligned, the other end of the platform stops moving toward the flatbed. In this way the platform self-aligns to the alignment of the flatbed and avoids the need to reposition a flatbed that is not precisely aligned parallel to the central axis of the loading bay.

Abstract: The transport installation with an aerial cable (2) for moving along a path, comprises a maintenance vehicle (1) provided with a gondola (4) mounted on a suspending rod (5) connected to the cable (2) by means of a fastener (9). The maintenance vehicle (1) moreover comprises a gangway (6) mounted on the suspending rod (5). A guiding rod (11) is fixed to the gangway (6) at one of its ends, and is connected to the cable (2) at its opposite end. The gangway (6) has a structure extending in the direction of displacement of the maintenance vehicle (1), and is pivotingly mounted on the suspending rod (5) so as to form an articulated bascule.

Abstract: A movable lift in accordance with the present invention has a frame with a connecting base, a telescoping tube mounted on the connecting base, a driving tool attached to the telescoping tube, and an elevating device mounted on the frame to drive a pallet. By having the above structure, the movable lift is operated by a user on the pallet to move, rotate the movable lift, or elevate the pallet even when the pallet is lifted high. Therefore, the movable lift is easy and convenient in operation and utility.

Abstract: Described is a lift unit for ascending and descending in a shaft formed by a scaffold column of a scaffold, the scaffold column comprising at least one scaffold section, each scaffold section being defined by uprights and ledgers, comprising a first part adapted to be fixed at different heights to the scaffold by means of a first set of fixing means; a second part adapted so that it can be fixed at different heights to the scaffold by means of a second set of fixing means; a distance control means adapted to drive a variation in the distance between the first set of fixing means and the second set of fixing means; and methods for use of the lift unit.

Abstract: The disclosed warehouse loader has two platform sections. One section is hinged to a deck where the operator stands when moving the loader. The other section is hinged to the first section and can be aligned with the first section to create a platform that extends outwardly from the deck and can be accessed by the operator directly from the deck. The second section is narrower than and folds against the first section. A spring-loaded latch holds the first section in an upright position, with the second section folded against it. A manually-operable positioning hook engages receptacles in the platform sections, making it easier to fold the sections. To retrieve a spilled article, the loader is first positioned at an open location adjacent the spilled article. The platform is extended into the open location. The operator can then stand on the platform while retrieving the article.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for enabling access to a structure above ground level by lowering and/or lifting the device in relation to the structure, the device comprising a first endless frame structure defining an opening, wherein at least part of the first endless frame structure forms a track portion, the track portion being adapted to guide an, in relation to the track portion, movable object, such as a gondola, along the track portion. The device may further comprise a second endless frame structure defining an opening, the second endless frame structure being aligned with the first endless frame structure.

Abstract: A stabbing basket, for a rig and for supporting a worker while stabbing joints of tubular members together during running operations, comprises a frame member for mounting the stabbing basket to the rig, a platform to support the worker, a carriage to slidably mount the platform to the frame member, vertical power means for moving the carriage vertically with respect to the frame member, an articulating boom, interconnecting the platform with the carriage, said articulating boom comprising a first segment and a second segment, and at least one pivoting actuator positioned between the first segment and the second segment.

Abstract: An aerialift warning system and method for use on aerialift equipment to warn the aerialift operator to fasten his/her safety lanyard and to warn persons within the zone of danger below the aerialift boom/basket of the impending danger posed by the descending boom/basket. The system includes a warning module and a speaker. The warning module includes a driver circuit for receiving a boom movement input signal and for asserting an up motion or down motion signal, and a processing circuit for receiving the up motion and down motion signal. The processing circuit contains an execution program to assert one or more warning messages contained in an audio warning circuit. The asserted one or more messages from the audio warning circuit are sent to a speaker.

Abstract: A scissors-type work platform lift machine includes a mobile chassis having rear stationary wheels and front steerable wheels, a scissors lift mechanism mounted at a lower end on the chassis, a work platform mounted on an upper end of the lift mechanism, and an electro-mechanical actuation arrangement for operating the lift mechanism between retracted and expanded conditions so as to move the work platform between lowered and raised positions.

Abstract: A lifting apparatus including a chassis having front and rear ends, and a drive unit for moving the chassis in forward or rearward directions. A turntable is mounted on the chassis for horizontal turning movement between front and rear positions. Boom assembly is mounted on the turntable and has a bucket mounted adjacent the free end thereof. An operating mechanism including an operator-actuated driving member is mounted on the bucket for controlling the forward and rearward traveling direction of the chassis. The driving member is movable in opposite first and second directions relative to the boom assembly for respectively causing forward and rearward travel of the chassis when the turntable is in the front position. A reversing arrangement reverses the controlling direction of the driving member when the turntable is in the rear position so that movement of the driving member in the first and second directions relative to the boom assembly respectively causes backward and forward travel of the chassis.

Abstract: A multiuser high-rise building fire escape device includes a basic bearing frame assembly alternatively mountd on the roof or either floor of a high-rise building, and several cabins mounted on the tracks of the basic bearing frame assembly and suspended therefrom through a steel rope combination. The cabins each comprises a speed reducing gear to smoothen the down stroke speed of the cabin, a motor assembly to drive the steel rope to wind up so as to lift the cabin, a mid-way stop mechanism to stop the cabin during down stroke, and a ladder door to control the access of the cabin and to serve as a bridge for striding over the cabin and an intermediate floor of a building.

Abstract: System for rescuing occupants of a tall building having at least one generally planar windowed face is disclosed, which system includes a first and a second boom mounted respectively at opposite sides of the building face at a building level above that face. Each boom has a retracted position and is shiftable to a cantilevered position in which its outer end overhangs the side of the building. A first and a second hoist cable extends respectively from the outer ends of the booms. A rescue cage has a top, a bottom and a flexible, collapsible, heat-shielding wall extending between the peripheries of the top and bottom to provide a shielded compartment. A pair of hoists are mounted to the cage top and engage individually the first and second hoist cables in order to drivingly support the cage adjacent the building face. The hoists are controllable so as to be driven differentially to move the cage transversely of the building face, and driven in the same direction for vertical motion.

Abstract: An external elevator system piggy backs a first rail car on a second rail car to permit simple and rapid transfer of the first rail car to an upper setback section of a high-rise building. Each rail car is equipped with pinion drives that engage racks fixed to vertical rails that are attached to the faces of the base section and setback section of the buildings. The cars also have motor driven wheels that allow the car to drive on horizontal surfaces.

Abstract: The invention relates to a service suspension basket which is adapted to move on rails or similar mounting means which are secured on the under side of platform deck or on a similar, downwardly facing foundation, the service basket is supported via a number of join arm-formed, hydraulically pivotable support means with associated separate hydraulically operated catch claws on the rails or similar mounting means.

Abstract: A lift apparatus for use in material handling characterized by a self-propelled and steerable chassis which mounts a pair of laterally spaced multi-stage mast assemblies for raising and lowering a lift carriage, and a stabilization torsion bar system actuatable by the mast assemblies for maintaining the lift carriage in a horizontal plane during such operation.

Abstract: A work staging scaffold system comprising an open movable structural frame with horizontal track members mounting one or more sets of carriages that support one or more associated traverse tracks carrying vertically movable worker cars and also workpiece cable hoists.

Abstract: Controls for an aerial lift platform apparatus which has a steerable mobile chassis, a rotatable upper works, and an extensible boom pivoted on the upper works for luffing movement. The controls are grouped to provide a first group of control members in physical proximity to each other for controlling upper works movement and a second group of control members for controlling movement of the chassis. Each of these control members is mounted for movement substantially to simulate the movement which is controlled. A third group of control members is for controlling the engine, and are in physical proximity to each other. The control members are mounted on a control console having near-horizontal and near-vertical surfaces from which the control members extend, the vehicle control member for drive and steering extending upwardly from the near-horizontal surface.

Abstract: A compact powered manlift cart suitable for usage in building interiors for raising and supporting an operator at elevated heights. The cart has front and rear wheels of which one front and one rear wheel are driven by a two-speed drive motor through a chain and sprocket drive train. Power driven front and rear steering assemblies allow the front and rear wheels to be steered independently of one another making the cart highly maneuverable. A lift mast for raising and supporting the operator includes a lift bucket wherein the operator stands during operation of the cart and also includes telescoping mast sections driven by a motor through a cable and pulley arrangement. The mast is extended and retracted for positioning the lift bucket at various heights up to a maximum height for supporting the operator for overhead work.

Abstract: A brake unit for a skip or carriage adapted to ride on one or more cables. The brake unit has brake jaws spanning the cable, said unit being connected to the skip so as to move along the cable therewith. The connection to the skip is such that when the latter is moved in one direction, the jaws slide along the cables, but when the skip moves in the opposite direction, the jaws grip the cable in a braking action. The brake unit has adjusting means which is operable to adjust the gripping action of the jaw anywhere from a complete grip preventing movement of the skip to release of the cable so that the skip can move freely therealong.

Abstract: A carriage has pulleys adjacent opposite ends thereof for riding on a pair of line cables which have obstructions thereon, such as hangers and spacers. The carriage has brakes associated therewith for engaging the line cables. These brakes are such that they permit the carriage to move in one direction but automatically grip the line cables when the carriage moves in the opposite direction. These brakes are releasable to allow the carriage to be moved in either direction. Lifting apparatus is provided for each end of the carriage in the form of hooks that can be placed on the line cables and lifter lines extending between the hooks and the carriage. The lifter cables are connected to a foot pedal in the carriage which can be manipulated to transfer the weight of the adjacent end of the carriage through the hooks to the line cables thereby allowing the pulleys at that end of the carriage to be lifted off the line cables and shifted around an obstruction thereon.

Abstract: A movable work support particularly adapted for use within a silo or similar cylindrical structure is disclosed herein. The work support comprises a frame supporting a work platform and a winch mechanism. A cable extends from the winch to a point of securement at the top of the cylindrical structure, and extension or retraction of the cable from the winch mechanism will cause the framework to lower or raise, respectively. A first pair of wheels is located at an end of the frame opposite the location of the work platform. The first pair of wheels is positioned to engage the side wall of the structure and to roll along the side wall as the frame is moved vertically. A second pair of wheels is mounted near the first pair of wheels on the frame and is oriented to roll along the side wall as the frame is rotated in a horizontal plane within the structure.

Abstract: A rolling support for moving scaffolding alongside the side or end of a building under construction, the support including frame structure which rigidly connects two outriggers together, a leading outrigger and a trailing outrigger, each of such outriggers having a near-side traveling wheel to ride on an exposed structural roof member adjacent the side or end of a building, and a far side force roller which extends beneath a parallel exposed structural roof member inwardly from the side or end of the building, the outriggers being parallel to one another and riding on parallel exposed structural roof members. The near-side travel wheel bears down on its exposed roof member and exerts substantial downward pressure thereon while the far-side force roller bears upwardly against the underside of its exposed roof member. Remote controlled motor means are mounted on the frame so as to drive the near-side traveling wheel.

Abstract: A base frame with four wheels, two of which are powered by separate hydraulic motors connected in series so that the fluid flowing through one motor then flows through the other. A speed control is provided whereby the constant output of a hydraulic pump either passes entirely through the motors or is partially bypassed around the pump.