Abstract: A retractable step for a vehicle comprises an arcuate member extending between first and second ends and a pair of pivots secured to the vehicle proximate to or within a wheel well of the vehicle so as to pivotally support the arcuate member proximate to each of the first and second ends of the arcuate member between a raised position surrounding or within the wheel well and a lowered position extending substantially horizontally from the vehicle proximate to the wheel well wherein the arcuate member provides or supports a step for a user.

Abstract: A hose retention system for a negative-angle-capable blasthole drilling machine is disclosed. The hose retention system may include an upper cage to extend longitudinally along a mast structure. The upper cage may have a secured end to couple the upper cage to the mast structure, a free end to extend toward the mast structure, and a first longitudinally-extending channel. The hose retention system may include a lower cage separate from the upper cage to extend longitudinally along the mast structure. The lower cage may have a secured end to couple the lower cage to the mast structure, a free end to extend toward the mast structure, and a second longitudinally-extending channel.

Abstract: An apparatus for supporting an appendage of a seated user, generally in a vehicle, including adjustable support arms attached a seat with a platform disposed at a distal end of second support arms so that the appendage of the user, such as a child, are supported thereon for comfort of the user.

Abstract: A universally mountable articulating step for a vehicle which includes a bypass linkage set which is common to mounting in a plurality of vehicles. The linkage set includes front and rear casting members that enable the step to collapse on itself. An independent mounting adapter which is unique to a particular vehicle is provided including a mounting configuration adapted to be attached to a vehicle and attachment mounting locations on which the bypass linkage set is to be mounted.

Abstract: A ladder placement leveling device is easily stored for transport and used by firefighters to quickly and effectively level a fire service ladder put in service on uneven ground. The device is mounted for transport and storage to a ladder and does not impede use of an attached ladder when the device is attached to the ladder a storage positioned. The device includes a wedge, a strap and an assembly for attaching and looping the strap around a ladder rung. One element of the assembly forms a detachable attachment to the wedge. The assembly attaches to the wedge at each end of the detachably formed strap loop.

Abstract: A portable ladder system pivotally mounted to a ladder support member that is configured to be removably secured to the edge of the bed of a truck trailer. The portable ladder system can be mounted to multiple locations along the edge of a bed and does not need to be mounted to a traditionally constructed stake pocket. The portable ladder system can be quickly and easily attached in a locked fashion and detached from the bed without the use of tools.

Abstract: An apparatus for supporting an appendage of a seated user, generally in a vehicle, including adjustable support arms attached a seat with a platform disposed at a distal end of second support arms so that the appendage of the user, such as a child, are supported thereon for comfort of the user.

Abstract: A universally mountable articulating step for a vehicle which includes a bypass linkage set which is common to mounting in a plurality of vehicles. The linkage set includes front and rear casting members that enable the step to collapse on itself. An independent mounting adapter which is unique to a particular vehicle is provided including a mounting configuration adapted to be attached to a vehicle and attachment mounting locations on which the bypass linkage set is to be mounted.

Abstract: A Three-Dimensional Positioning and Holding Modular System for office and industrial work stations including embodiments of multi-rail beams and rail-arm-leg modules. The embodiments have tubes, bars, or channels arranged and connected in ways that provide improved ability to transmit torque along a long axis of the multi-rail beam while providing improved resistance to twisting under the forces of the torque.

Abstract: A landing gear platform is positionable between rearward and forward tires on one side of an aircraft landing gear and rearward and forward tires on the opposite side of the aircraft landing gear. The platform includes a pair of chocks that engage between the rearward and forward tires on the one side of the aircraft landing gear and the rearward and forward tires on the opposite side of the aircraft landing gear and prevent the tires from rotating. A panel spans over the tops of the pair of chocks. A top surface of the panel can be reached by a worker using a stepstool, enabling the worker to stand on the top surface of the panel when performing work on the landing gear above the rearward and forward tires of the aircraft landing gear.

Abstract: A universally mountable articulating step for a vehicle which includes a bypass linkage set which is common to mounting in a plurality of vehicles. The linkage set includes front and rear casting members that enable the step to collapse on itself. An independent mounting adapter which is unique to a particular vehicle is provided including a mounting configuration adapted to be attached to a vehicle and attachment mounting locations on which the bypass linkage set is to be mounted.

Abstract: A method for demolishing a building, where the building comprises a building base placed in proximity of a ground, or placed on the ground, and an opposite building top or temporary building top arranged away from the building base, as well as building floors. The equipment used in the method includes a platform adapted to be positioned against the top of the building, avoiding ground support devices which extend from the platform to the base of the building or the ground surrounding the building. The platform includes at least one working scaffold adapted to be arranged along the periphery of the building and to face at least one floor of said building. The working scaffold is supported, hung, on the platform so that it descends along the side wall of the building to border the works for demolishing the building.

Abstract: A tailgate assembly of a vehicle includes a tailgate, a left workpiece holder, and a right workpiece holder. The tailgate is elongated along an axis from a vehicle-left end to a vehicle-right end. The tailgate includes a left pocket at the vehicle-left end and a right pocket at the vehicle-right end. The left workpiece holder has an L shape and is configured to slidably engage the left pocket along the axis, and the right workpiece holder has an L shape and is configured to slidably engage the right pocket along the axis.

Abstract: An improvement to U.S. Pat. No. 6,003,630 comprising a method and device whereby the extension arm portion is removably attached and to the nail plate portion while attached to the exterior scaffolding portion, thus permitting a single user to take down the scaffolding easily and safely on their own without assistance. Additionally, the scaffold can now be safely lowered to the ground entirely from the building interior via a support line attached to the extension arm while it is attached to the exterior scaffolding. This improvement makes the 630 patent more efficient and much safer to use. Additionally, a spanner bracket for use with cement block or pour in place concrete walls is disclosed herein enabling a non ground-based scaffolding system in use with the 630 patent for such walls types, also permitting single user set up and removal of the scaffolding.

Abstract: The tire-mounted step stool is a step is adapted for use with a tire of a vehicle. When the tire-mounted step stool is secured to the tire, the tire-mounted step stool forms a platform upon which a person can step to gain access to the roof or engine compartment of the vehicle. The tire-mounted step stool comprises a first panel, a second panel, a first steel bar, a second steel bar, and a plurality of hinges. The first steel bar and the second steel bar are used to attach the first panel to the second panel. The plurality of hinges is used to make the stated attachments in such a manner that the tire-mounted step stool is collapsible.

Abstract: A tire table has supports or frames that mount a tabletop on a vehicle tire. The table top has a central member that can extend across the inside surface of the tire. The leg members extend from the support or frame and engage the outside surface of the tire. A frame or support extends laterally in a cantilever manner from the tire and supports a tabletop on it. The various parts of the frame or support can be telescopically connected or can be pivotally connected for assembly, disassembly and storage.

Abstract: A universally mountable articulating step for a vehicle which includes a bypass linkage set which is common to mounting in a plurality of vehicles. The linkage set includes front and rear casting members that enable the step to collapse on itself. An independent mounting adapter which is unique to a particular vehicle is provided including a mounting configuration adapted to be attached to a vehicle and attachment mounting locations on which the bypass linkage set is to be mounted.

Abstract: A method of assembling an offset working surface on a scaffold. The method uses a scaffold knee-out member having a first and second scaffold members that are pivotally connected. A scaffold connector is positioned on an opposite end of each of the first and second scaffold members remote from the pivot point. Preferably, both connectors are pivotally connected to their respective scaffold members. One of the scaffold members of the knee-out end is coupled to a vertical scaffold, and then the other scaffold member of the knee-out is moved appropriately to allow the first and second scaffold members to pivot with respect to each other, until the other scaffold member is positioned to be coupled to a vertical scaffold member.

Abstract: A below main cable work platform support for hanging a work platform below a main cable of a suspension bridge and a method of installation thereof. A plurality of supports attach to each band on a main cable. Each support has a pair of struts bolted to the band, the top of each strut on each side of the band, the struts extending downward, connecting to the ends of a horizontal bar that sits between a pair of suspender cables hanging from each band. A work platform is suspended from the horizontal bar and tie down cables extend downward from the bar attaching below to stabilize the platform against wind and uplift. The method includes the step of screwing a single bolt into each side of a cable band for supporting the support therebelow.

Abstract: A bridge maintenance vehicle with a hinge-connected hanging bracket for avoiding bridge-side obstacles comprises an unwheeling and a suspension arm. The unwheeling comprises a vehicle frame chassis. The suspension arm is a C-shaped hanging bracket. The vehicle frame chassis is connected to a lower end of a strut in a hinged manner through a longitudinal shaft hinge and a longitudinal shaft. A protruding end of a lower cross beam of the C-shaped hanging bracket is provided with at least a fixing point for a lifting rope or a lifting rope winding/unwinding device. A vehicle frame stringer is fixed at an upper end of the strut. A hanging bracket longitudinal beam is fixed at an upper end of a vertical rod of the C-shaped hanging bracket. The hanging bracket longitudinal beam and the vehicle frame stringer are movably connected with each other into a whole through at least two cross beams.

Abstract: A portable folding support structure for safely tethering an individual comprises a portable cart sized to fit through a residential doorway, having wheels and a motor that actuates at least one of the wheels. A hand-operated throttle and steering device control the cart. The cart comprises an extendable anchoring plate to prevent rolling. A substantially horizontal jib with the cart comprises a harness point for receiving a safety cable to which an individual is attached to allow safe cleaning practices and to minimize fall risk. A foldable outrigger provides stability to the cart and an anchoring pad attaches to a distal region of the outrigger to promote stability. A textile liquid-absorbing surface is positionable about an outer surface of a glass balcony to inhibit cleaning liquids from spilling below the level of the liquid-absorbing surface.

Abstract: A suspended scaffold assembly for mounting a scaffold. The suspended scaffold assembly comprises a plurality of horizontally-spaced-apart vertical support members comprising a suspension cable with at least one coupling ring secured thereto and at least one horizontal member. Each one of the at least one horizontal member is removably connectable to a respective one of the at least one coupling ring of two spaced-apart ones of the plurality of vertical support members. A vertical support member for a suspended scaffold assembly, a kit for mounting a suspended scaffold assembly and a method for mounting same are also provided.

Abstract: The invention includes an access structure integration assembly and an integrated system using the assembly. An access structure integrated assembly includes at least one channeled structure and at least one joist socket slidingly engaged with the channeled structure. The channeled structure is configured to secure to a base structure, such as a suspended work platform system, and the joist socket is configured to secure to a second structure, such as a supported work platform system. An integrated system includes a base structure, a second structure and at least two integration assemblies, each assembly including a channeled structure secured to the base structure and a joist socket secured to the second structure and slidingly engaged with the channeled structure.

Abstract: A work platform system for implementation in relation to a structure, as well as subsystems and components thereof and methods of implementation and use relating thereto, are disclosed herein. In at least one embodiment, the work platform system includes a first pair of flexible elements and a second pair of flexible elements, where a respective first end of each of the flexible elements is coupled at least indirectly to a first support component and a respective second end of each of the flexible elements is coupled at least indirectly to a second support component. The work platform system can further include a plurality of panel structures supported upon the flexible elements, a suspension component, and a suspender structure coupled to at least one of the first pair of flexible elements and the second pair of flexible elements. The work platform system can include one or more support extension.

Abstract: A hanging platform assembly for use in accessing a column section is provided. The hanging platform assembly can include a walkway configured to allow a user to walk about the hanging platform; a backing extending vertically from the walkway at a point distal from the stacked column; an angled post extending at an angle down and away from the walkway; a foot pad disposed on the end of the angle post, the foot pad configured to rest against the outer surface of the stacked column; a vertical post connected the walkway and the angled post; and an adapter disposed on the walkway at a point proximal the outer surface of the stacked column, wherein the adapter is configured to mate with a clip attached to the column section, such that when a downward force is applied to the walkway, the clip is configured to prevent the walkway from falling to the ground.

Abstract: A work platform system for implementation in relation to a structure, as well as subsystems and components thereof and methods of implementation and use relating thereto, are disclosed herein. In at least one embodiment, the work platform system includes a first pair of flexible elements and a second pair of flexible elements, where a respective first end of each of the flexible elements is coupled at least indirectly to a first support component and a respective second end of each of the flexible elements is coupled at least indirectly to a second support component. The work platform system can further include a plurality of panel structures supported upon the flexible elements, a suspension component, and a clamp structure coupled to at least one of the first pair of flexible elements and the second pair of flexible elements. The work platform system can include one or more support extension.

Abstract: A support structure of the type used as a truss for entertainment productions is disclosed. The support structure includes a plurality of frame segments arranged to form a truss and an implement bracket attached to the truss, the implement bracket connecting an implement to the truss. The implement bracket deploys from a stowed position within a space defined by the truss through a window of the truss formed by truss frame segments to a working position outside the space defined by the truss.

Abstract: The invention relates to an aerial platform for a wind turbine with a tower and rotor blades arranged on the tower, which aerial platform comprises: a vehicle; at least a first pair of cables and a second pair of cables, which are each attached with one end to the vehicle and can be attached with the other end close to the upper side of the tower of the wind turbine; a lift cradle which is guided by at least a first pair of cables; and hoisting means for hoisting the lift cradle with the second pair of cables along the first pair of cables. The invention further comprises a lift cradle for an aerial platform according to the invention.

Abstract: Apparatus for raising and lowering objects. In accordance with some embodiments, a winch motor is adapted to rotate a winch member in opposing first and second directions to wrap/unwrap a portion of a cable on/from the winch member to raise and lower a lifting platform assembly, respectively. A tension detection switch assembly includes an on/off switch connected to the winch motor and a biasing member which exerts a bias force upon the winch member to nominally deflect the winch member to a first position which sets the switch to deactivate the winch motor in an absence of tension in the cable from the lifting platform assembly. A presence of tension in the cable from the lifting platform assembly deflects the winch member to a second position which sets the switch to facilitate activation of the winch motor.

Abstract: A decking panel is provided having first and second ends and fasteners at each end for releasably clipping the panel to a pair of support or catenary wires. The fasteners comprise hooks for supporting the panel on the wires and at least one finger for resisting lift of the panel from the wires, wherein the hooks and finger or fingers at one end are offset from the hooks and finger or fingers at the other end. In embodiments a cross-member at each end of the panel pivotally supports a lever carrying the finger or fingers, the lever being rotatable between a vertical position where the fingers are clear of the hooks and a lowered position wherein the fingers underlie the hooks for clamping a catenary cable between them, gravity biasing the levers towards the lowered position.

Abstract: A cart for carrying a lineman along power line conductors includes a basket, vertical supports, a frame overhanging the basket, the frame mounting rollers which engage the conductors. The frame, vertical supports and basket define a generally C-shaped opening between the frame and the basket through which the conductors pass into vertical alignment with the rollers on the frame. The basket includes a wall remote from the opening which extends upwardly and away from the opening to provide a protected area for the lineman, the vertical supports being positioned between the opening and the area for protecting the lineman from conductors passing through the opening. The cart includes a safety cable affixed to the basket at the opening and removably attachable to the frame at the opening to provide a structural connection between the basket and the frame for strengthening the cart structure during cart movement.

Abstract: A device for positioning a rope access technician next to a blade of a wind turbine, including a rigid spine, one or more clamp assemblies with each clamp assembly connected to the rigid spine and each clamp assembly capable of clamping to a blade of a wind turbine, and a lower platform connected to a lower portion of the rigid spine with a substantially flat top surface on which a technician may sit, stand or place items.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a tower for a wind power installation. The tower comprises a wall extending from a foundation in an upwards direction towards a nacelle and defines an enclosed space. Furthermore, the tower comprises a safety blanket which is distended across the tower interior along an inner surface of the wall to thereby split the enclosed space into an upper compartment above the blanket and a lower compartment below the blanket. The safety blanket is flexible.

Abstract: A wire rope tension grid is a walking surface comprised of interwoven wire rope. The wire rope is supported by a framework of steel angle and tubing. The framework is supported by mounts that are hung from the support beams in the ceiling of a structure, often a performing art center, a television studio, a black box theater, museum dioramas, theme park scenes, live animal pens, or other entertainment venues. These grids are not intended for public usage, but rather are intended for operation staff. New improvements to these grids are listed in this document.

Abstract: A support assembly for a tree-based platform includes a rod having a length greater than a diameter of a tree to which the platform is intended to be attached. The assembly further includes a first ring defining an opening configured to receive a portion of a tree, and a first plurality of extending members inwardly advanceable relative to the first ring. Each of the extending members has an end portion configured to engage the tree in the opening of the first ring when sufficiently advanced. The assembly further includes a second ring defining an opening configured to receive a portion of the tree, and a second plurality of extending members inwardly advanceable relative to the second ring. Each extending member has an end portion configured to engage the tree in the opening of the second ring when sufficiently advanced. The assembly further includes first and second supports. Each support has a bottom rail, a top rail, and two side rails.

Abstract: For attaching a scaffold stand (101) to the deck (130) of a bridge, which scaffold stand is arranged to be supported from at least two support points above the deck of the bridge, of which support points above the deck at least one support point (120) is arranged to receive compressive force and at least one support point is arranged to receive pulling force. The attachment member is characterized in that it (102) is fitted to be detachably attached to the deck (130) of the bridge with at least two attachment means (103), and comprises at least one attachment means (104) for attaching the attachment member (102) to the support point of the scaffold stand receiving pulling force. An arrangement and a method utilizing the attachment member are also presented.

Abstract: A suspended access chair with a rescue system that may be utilized to access a wind turbine blade while mounted on a tower for purposes such as inspection, maintenance, cleaning, and repair of the blade is provided. The suspended access chair generally includes a chair frame assembly. Upper frame and lower frame assembly rollers are secured to the chair frame assembly and are configured for rolling contact along an edge of the blade. The suspended access chair further includes primary dextral and primary sinistral gripping arms. The gripping arms may be adjusted to conform to the shape of the blade and include rollers configured for rolling contact along a portion of the blade. A hoist is provided to raise and lower the chair along a suspension rope. The rescue system is used to lower the suspended access chair from an elevated position to the ground during emergency situations.

Abstract: An aerial work assembly including components having composite materials including a fabric-reinforced resin for providing electrically non-conductive assembly, by insulating and/or isolating conductive components.

Abstract: The invention concerns a scaffold element adapted to be removably attachable to a bridge, the scaffold element comprising support member for supporting the scaffold element onto an upper surface of the bridge and a support structure which is secured to the support members and which extends to a distance outside the edge of the bridge and to a distance below the bridge. The invention is characterized in that the scaffold element further comprises a longitudinally adjustable support bar pivotally connected to the support structure and being supportable against a lower surface of the bridge and adjustment means for adjustably attaching a vertical mold wall onto the support structure of the scaffold element at a distance outside the edge of the bridge for forming a mold between the wall and the bridge. Also a scaffold arrangement and method of use are disclosed.

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 roof scaffolding system includes a curved roof hook attached to a linear, metal membrane strip unit having connector rivets and nail holes. The metal strip includes double slot keyholes and attachment apertures that engage corresponding rivets on the roof hook. The opposite end of the metal strip includes connector rivets engaging double slot keyholes of an identical metal strip, extending opposite the roof hook. The nail holes allow attachment of wood spacers beneath the metal strips. Multiple strips are joined extending from the peak to the roof edge. A coupler connector covers the connection between joined metal strips preventing disconnection. Roof jacks include both nail slots and keyholes for attachment to the metal strips, as well as safety hooks for attachment of a lanyard from the scaffolding to workers. The roof jacks hold a plank that spans adjacent metal strips, the plank providing a place to stand.

Abstract: A device for enabling access to a structure above ground or sea level, in particular a rotor blade of a wind turbine, by lowering and/or lifting the device in relation to the structure, the device including a frame structure,—means for supporting the device in relation to the structure, and—means for lowering and/or lifting the device in relation to the structure, where at least part of the frame structure includes a track portion, the track portion being adapted to guide an, in relation to the track portion, movable object along the track portion, where the means for supporting the device in relation to the structure are configured for positioning the device in relation to the structure, and the means for supporting the device in relation to the structure are configured for facilitating a movement of the device essentially in the longitudinal direction of the structure.

Abstract: A scaffolding system in which a platform or wall may be secured to a crosspiece supported by cables near an angled structure or in another difficult location. A platform is secured to the crosspiece horizontally, while a wall is secured vertically. The crosspiece may be an angle iron or pipe, for example. Also disclosed are clamps and clamping arrangements for securing the platform or wall to the crosspiece.

Abstract: A collapsible man-lift for use in the hollow tower portion of a wind turbine includes a support frame assembly, a foldable floor assembly and a collapsible cage assembly. The support frame assembly includes a sub-assembly built in a triangular shape. The foldable floor assembly and the collapsible cage assembly are connected to the triangular sub-assembly portion of the support frame assembly.

Abstract: A lifting system for raising and lowering objects to and from a storage or holding area, having a support and drive assembly which raises and lowers a platform assembly having an lifting platform for holding objects and preferably a closure platform for closing an opening of a ceiling portal through which the object is raised and lowered on the platform assembly.

Abstract: A seat for high erection workers working on large horizontal I-beams is formed with a seat for a worker and particularly a welder at one end of a leverage arm and a friction plate at the opposite end with a clamping point provided by a clamp the ends of which are positioned near one end and on either side of the friction plate and providing a fulcrum point near the end of the leverage arm for urging the friction plate into secure contact with the underside of a flange of a horizontal I-beam. The seat is constructed of light metals and preferably is provided with a lanyard which doubles as a safety tie during use and a carrying strap by which the high-rise working seat may be transported.

Abstract: A platform lift apparatus enables the safe movement of objects to and from an attic storage space. The platform lift apparatus includes a frame, a drive mechanism, and a platform. The frame includes internal and external mounting surfaces. The drive mechanism is substantially disposed within the frame and is coupled to the internal mounting surfaces. The drive mechanism includes a plurality of rotatable, parallel shafts with each shaft further including at least one lift drum having an associated lift tether at least partially wound thereon and having an end hanging therefrom. The platform is coupled to each lift tether end and is thereby suspended from the frame. The platform is selectively movable by operation of the drive mechanism within in a vertical dimension between raised and lowered positions. The drive mechanism further comprises an electric motor operatively coupled to the plurality of parallel shafts.

Abstract: Disclosed is a scaffold installed within a large structure such as a pressure vessel or a tank of a ship, and an insulation system construction method using the same. The scaffold for use in performing desired work within a large structure includes a supporting structure installed adjacent to both side surfaces and a top surface of the large structure, and a carrying unit installed movable along the supporting structure to allow materials to be carried or to provide a working space for a worker thereon, wherein the supporting structure is installed to be movable along a wall surface of the large structure.

Abstract: A safety support structure for use in grain storage bins comprising vertical and horizontal parts, which can be connected to provide a scaffold sufficient to support one or more persons. This safety support structure can be used to prevent a person from becoming trapped in the grain contained within the bin as well as to provide a stable place for a person to work within the bin. The present safety support structure can be freestanding so as not to interfere with any operations above the structure, and also have the ability to be raised off the grain bin floor in order to facilitate removal of grain from the floor with a sweep auger.

Abstract: Disclosed is a scaffold installed within a large structure such as a pressure vessel or a tank of a ship, and an insulation system construction method using the same. The scaffold for use in performing desired work within a large structure includes a supporting structure installed adjacent to both side surfaces and a top surface of the large structure, and a carrying unit installed movable along the supporting structure to allow materials to be carried or to provide a working space for a worker thereon, wherein the supporting structure is installed to be movable along a wall surface of the large structure.