Single Stile, Strand Or Pole Patents (Class 182/189)
  • Patent number: 11952837
    Abstract: A collapsible ladder with steps that remained stored within the frame or automatically deploy for use. The ladder can be manual, semi-automatic, or remote controlled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2023
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2024
    Assignee: T-H Marine Supplies, LLC
    Inventor: John W. Carter
  • Patent number: 11913243
    Abstract: To address one or more of these and/or other needs or problems with the use of climbing aids in the construction industry, the present inventor devised, among other things, one or more exemplary systems, kits, methods, devices, assemblies, and/or components related to providing safe and efficient means for installing temporary walls in commercial building projects as well as for other situations where conventional ladders pose heightened risk of injury and death. One exemplary system includes a telescopic climbing mast having a minimal operational length in the range of at least 15 feet, extending between a base support and a ceiling interface configured to resist lateral movement of an upper end of the mast. An upper portion of the mast further includes a worker safety line tie-off point for connection to a retractable fall restraint line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2024
    Inventor: James M. Schlangen
  • Patent number: 11808085
    Abstract: A tree climbing stick nesting system includes a plurality of tree climbing stick assemblies each including a stick body. A step and a standoff are each attached to the stick body. A coupler is attached to the stick body and releasably secures together a pair of the tree climbing stick assemblies to define secured tree sticks such that longitudinal axes of the secured tree sticks are orientated parallel to each other. The coupler includes a first mating member and a second mating member. The first mating member of one of the tree climbing stick assemblies is vertically engageable with the second mating member of another one of the tree climbing stick assemblies when the stick bodies of the secured tree sticks are vertically orientated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2023
    Inventors: Walter Ernest Power, II, Gregory Alan Godfrey, Shawn Paul Chadwick
  • Patent number: 10954717
    Abstract: Disclosed is a step assembly for use in climbing a utility structure. The step assembly comprises a rod member and a plate member. The rod member comprises a generally L-shaped rod, a shoulder formed contiguously to the generally L-shaped rod, and an arm pivotably coupled to the shoulder by a pin. The plate member comprises a duct having a longitudinally formed internal passage, and a support plate attached at one end portion of the duct and formed transversally to the duct, wherein the internal passage of the duct contiguously provides an opening in the support plate at the one end portion. The aligned shoulder and arm are configured to pass through the internal passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2021
    Assignee: VAF Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Glenn Sailer, Raymond Tai
  • Patent number: 10781598
    Abstract: Combination step bolt and fall protection anchorage assemblies are disclosed that may be mounted on structures such as communication towers, poles and antennas. The assemblies include a mounting plate that can be bolted to the structure, an integrated anchorage clip connected to the mounting plate having at least one safety hook hole extending therethrough, and a step bolt secured to the integrated anchorage clip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignee: CROWN CASTLE USA, INC.
    Inventors: Matt Branagan, James Ruedlinger, Kerry Johnson, Christian Beauchamp
  • Patent number: 9616295
    Abstract: A fastening element for a climbing device configured for fastening to a tree, pole, mast, column, pillar, or like climbing surface includes an outer shell, a concave contact surface formed within the outer shell and a plurality of anchoring nubs. A lattice structure including a plurality of raised ribs may form the contact surface. Each of the plurality of anchoring nubs protrudes from the raised ribs, and one or more may be formed at least partially at an intersection of the lattice structure. The nubs may have a rounded profile and are preferably symmetrically aligned around a longitudinal axis of the fastening element. The plurality of anchoring nubs and the concave contact surface, e.g., a plurality of raised ribs, form an anchoring surface configured to contact a climbing surface, and to anchor the fastening element to the climbing surface, a tree, for example, without damage thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2017
    Inventor: Franz J. Müller
  • Patent number: 9551184
    Abstract: A tool for engaging a roof includes a peak engagement member for engaging a first surface of the roof, and an operator climbing member including an elongated central body and a plurality of spaced apart step handles mounted on the central body. The operator climbing member is configured for engaging the second surface of the roof and is operatively connected to the peak engagement member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Inventors: Daniel Webster, Gary Graves
  • Publication number: 20140196383
    Abstract: A building fire escape system, comprising an auxiliary descending device, the auxiliary descending device being a sliding pole (6) or a spiral chute (6?), and at least one refuge chamber, the refuge chamber being a fireproof spatial structure integrated with the building. The inside of the refuge chamber is divided into a first space (2) and a second space (3) by fire partitions (1, 4). The first space (2) communicates with the interior space of the building. The second space (3) communicates with the exterior space of the building. The fire partition (4) is provided with a fireproof door (11) connecting the first space with the second space. Any two neighboring refuge chambers are interconnected. The fire partition is provided with an observation window (12). The first space and the second space are provided with an air supply pipe (14) and an air exhaust pipe (15). Disposed at the top of the refuge chamber is a water tank (16) connected to the fire main pipe (17).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Applicant: JIANGXI PROVINCE FENGHE YINGZAO GROUP CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Baoru Jie, Jiangang Jie
  • Publication number: 20140182970
    Abstract: The EasyUp! is a convenience, safety rehabilitation and medical supply tool for use in the home, elder care, rehabilitation center, hospital or wherever anyone may need assistance in arising from a lying-down to seated, or from seated to a standing position due to injury or illness that may impact either strength or balance. The EasyUp! also assists a person to seat themselves or lie down. The tool clamps to most heavy “non-rocking” upholstered chairs, couches and beds to provide a stable hand grip that allows an individual to use upper body strength to assist the legs or back and to provide balance as they re-position their body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2013
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Inventor: Keith Roy Williams
  • Patent number: 8752671
    Abstract: A portable, collapsible, free-standing device for use by a rider to access the saddle stirrup when mounting a horse. The device has a center support pole with a handle on one end and a base on the other. Two folding steps are each pivotally mounted to spaced-apart brackets attached to the pole, to assist the rider to reach the stirrup. Several folding legs are mounted to a collar attached to the center pole in order to stabilize the device. The legs can be configured with extensions so that the device can be leveled on uneven terrain. Pivoting foot pads can be attached onto the ends of the legs. A rope is attached to the handle so that the device can be pulled up after the rider has mounted the horse, whereupon the device can be folded and collapsed for storage on the horse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Inventor: Diane Henderson Holman
  • Patent number: 8556035
    Abstract: The various embodiments disclosed and pictured illustrate a ladder module for use in ascending or descending generally cylindrical, vertically oriented structures and a securement system for positioning various objects on a generally cylindrical, vertically oriented structure. One embodiment of the ladder module comprises a spine and at least two steps pivotally mounted to the spine. A step mounting bracket base may be affixed to a step mounting bracket bolt, and each step may in turn be pivotally mounted to the step mounting bracket base. The step mounting bracket base and the tree bracket may be secured to the spine with the step mounting bracket bolt. The ladder module may be mounted to a tree or similar structure using a flexible member such as a rope, wherein one end of the flexible member is secured to the spine and the flexible member is engageable with the securement structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Muddy Outdoors, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry Kendall, Todd Pringnitz
  • Patent number: 8511434
    Abstract: A fall protection safety device including a braking mechanism comprises a first component, a second component configured and arranged to move relative to the first component, and at least one magnet operatively connected to one of the components and another of the components being at least partially made of a non-ferromagnetic and electrically conductive material. The at least one magnet and the non-ferromagnetic and electrically conductive material creating an electromagnetic field force when the second component moves at a rate greater than a predetermined rate relative to the first component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: D B Industries, LLC
    Inventor: John P. Blomberg
  • Patent number: 8439162
    Abstract: A tree mounted ladder assembly provides adjustable spacing between steps to facilitate climbing into a tree. The assembly includes an elongated bar, an upper support coupled to the bar; and a lower support coupled to the bar. A connector is also coupled to the bar and a strap is coupled to the connector. The strap is configured for coupling around a tree to hold the upper support and the lower support against the tree. A plurality of steps is coupled to the bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventor: Kevin S. Galloway
  • Patent number: 8210311
    Abstract: A fire escape system includes at least one guide post and an escape platform slidably carried by the at least one guide post and comprising a platform plate; a pair of handlebars pivotally carried by the platform plate; a pair of guide rollers carried by the pair of handlebars, respectively, and adapted to detachably engage the at least one guide post; and a pair of brake assemblies carried by the escape platform and adapted to engage the at least one guide post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Inventor: Jimmy Rice
  • Publication number: 20120118669
    Abstract: A portable step device includes a stirrup having a base section for placing a foot thereon, and an upper section connected to the base section and extending over the foot when placed on the base. A first adjustable line is connected to the stirrup for extending upwardly from the base section, and has attachment means for attaching the first line to an object above the stirrup. A second adjustable line is connected to the stirrup for extending substantially parallel from the base section, and has attachment means for attaching the second line to an object positioned substantially on a same horizontal plane as the stirrup. The portable step device can be used in the installation of tree steps on a tree stand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2010
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Inventor: Robert Daniel Drye
  • Patent number: 8002083
    Abstract: A search line rescue system for use by rescue personnel to facilitate a safe search and rescue mission through an area of low to zero visibility is disclosed. The search line rescue system comprises a search rope having a first end configured to be attachable to a fixed point at an entry point, a central portion with at least one distance marker and a second end. The system further comprises a search device handle with a leading end and a trailing end wherein the search device handle is slidably coupled to the search rope. The search device handle comprises a rigid body, an automatic lock mechanism coupled to the rigid body wherein the automatic lock mechanism comprises a manual lock mechanism release, and at least one tag line attachment anchor. At least one locking directional indicator is securely coupled to the search rope at a desired location, and is configured to releasably engage with the automatic lock search mechanism of the search device handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Inventors: John E. McLoughlin, Neocles G. Athanasiades, Kiam Meng Toh, Joseph V. Beltrani
  • Patent number: 7942242
    Abstract: The invention relates to an urban emergency escape method and apparatus for use in escaping from high-rise buildings. The method sets forth a series steps that allows one to successfully evacuate a high-rise building that is filled with smoke due a fire or the elevator system is not working due to an explosion or a terrorist attack of some kind. The apparatus utilized comprises a carry-on bag with a handle and wheels for easy mobility and a zippered cover that encloses a plurality of interconnected rope sections, a descent controller, a plurality of anchoring straps, at least one harness, D-rings and a glass breaking tool. After donning the harness and breaking the window to allow exit, the anchoring straps are secured to several different structural components within the room and tied to a first end of a rope segment. The free end of the rope segment is pre-fed through the descent controller, the user steps out the broken window and allows evacuee to descend by manipulating the descent controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Inventors: Daniel J. O'Connor, John S. Soltys
  • Patent number: 7766124
    Abstract: A system for the evacuation of persons from a multi story structure during circumstances in which the normal escape mechanisms such as stairs and elevators are unusable for any reason. The system mounts externally of the affected structure and provides at least one evacuator upon which a person may ride in a controlled descent from an area of danger to an area of relative safety. The evacuator rides on a post and the evacuee may control the speed of his or her descent with a simple braking mechanism. A safety belt and foot rests provide a sense of security during the descent from danger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Inventor: Edward H. Horn
  • Patent number: 7585197
    Abstract: A crew overboard self rescue device including a tether and an ascension device. The tether has attachment loops for the ascension device disposed along its length. The ascension device includes a flexible strap with attached footholds and an attachment to the tether. The tether is attached between a hard point on a watercraft and a harness worn by the crew. The ascension device is stowed in a container such as a fanny pack worn by the crew. In a crew overboard situation, the crew retrieves the ascension device from the container, attaches the ascension device to one of the attachment loops disposed on the tether, and using the footholds, climbs the ascension device while stabilizing his upper torso by grasping the tether.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Inventor: C. William Merten
  • Publication number: 20090133960
    Abstract: This invention has to do with a tree step, which preferably is a one piece bracket comprising an attachment tab, a step portion, and a brace means. The attachment tab has a tree abutment surface and a slot formed through it to allow the passage of a tree fastener. The step portion extends upwardly extending at an acute angle away from the abutment surface for a distance that is preferably the width of a person's foot, or slightly wider. The step portion terminates in an outer end that adjoins a brace means. The brace means forms an acute angle with the step portion as it extends downwardly and back towards the tree abutment surface with the brace terminating in a tree engagement end. The tree engagement end has a pointed surface such that it will penetrate and non-movably engage with the outer perimeter of a tree trunk. The tree engagement end also has a perforation to let a string, wire or other similar fastener pass through and hold or urge the tree engagement end in engagement with the tree.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2007
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Inventor: Ricky Lee Yowonske
  • Publication number: 20090085022
    Abstract: This invention relates to a safety post comprising an elongate tubular member and a locking device arranged inside of the tubular member. The safety post is mountable in a post holder. The locking device includes a lever and a bias spring device biasing the lever against an inner surface of the wall of the tubular member. The lever has a lock protrusion extending through a first aperture portion of the wall, and a release protrusion extending through a second aperture portion of the wall. The release protrusion is arranged at a distance from the lock protrusion. The lock protrusion is retractable to a release position inside of an outer surface of the tubular member by operation of the release protrusion in a counter biasing direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2007
    Publication date: April 2, 2009
    Applicant: Combisafe International AB
    Inventor: Joakim Svedberg
  • Patent number: 7163082
    Abstract: A climbing stick apparatus includes a plurality of stick members, each of which includes a fastener reception portion at each stick member end and a plurality of foot-support-reception channels. A plurality of member-to-member couplers and fasteners are provided for erecting a plurality of stick members in a longitudinal arrangement. A plurality of foot support members are received in the foot-support-reception channels. The climbing stick apparatus of the invention permits rapid assembly of a climbing stick next to a tree for hunters and other outdoorsmen. When erected next to a tree the climbing stick apparatus permits the hunter to remain above ground level so that he is not noticed or smelled by game on the ft floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Inventor: John H. Bigard
  • Patent number: 6752243
    Abstract: An easy to use device that attaches to a beam for use as a step and allowing a user to stand on and attain elevation. A plank can be used in combination with the tool to form a shelf, scaffold or platform. The upper surface of the tool comprises tapered ribs located on the back edge of the upper surface. A vertical member and collar are attached to the tool. When the tool is placed on a beam and downward force is applied to the tool, the ribs engage a first side of the beam and the collar engages the opposite side of the beam, forming a lever. The user is free to stand on the tool for support and elevation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Inventor: Robert Terzini
  • Patent number: 6668975
    Abstract: A ladder incorporating a vertical support structure and a set of removable rungs. The vertical support structure is formed by stacking a series of interlocking sticks. The sticks incorporate features allowing the removable installation of the rungs. The rungs are small and light, so that a set of such rungs may be easily carried by a user. The vertical sticks generally remain attached to the object to be climbed—such as a tree or pole. When the user wishes to climb the object, the user installs the rungs as he or she climbs. The rungs are then removed upon descent. In this manner, unauthorized climbing of the object is inhibited. Locking features are also included to prevent unauthorized access by another person having a set of removable rungs. Several different embodiments of the removable rungs are disclosed. The common feature of all these embodiments is the fact that the rungs cannot come loose from the vertical stick while they are under load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: Center Ridge Outdoors, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Timothy Scott Skipper
  • Patent number: 6666456
    Abstract: An amusement dunk tank step assembly configured to position and allow patrons dropped into dunk tanks to easily exit therefrom and reseat themselves upon platforms, to removably mount to dunk tanks in a plurality of locations, and/or to retrofit virtually any existing dunk tank. The dunk tank step assembly includes a mounting member configured to removably mount on an upper portion of the dunk tank. An upper portion of a rail member is coupled to the mounting member and is configured to be adjacent to an internal portion of the dunk tank when the step assembly is in an operative position. A step member is coupled to a lower portion of the rail member and is configured to be adjacent to the internal portion of the dunk tank when the step assembly is in an operative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Inventor: Robert C. Swankie
  • Patent number: 6394228
    Abstract: An accessory for a T-post, having a longitudinal axis, comprises: a first bar having a central portion and a longitudinal axis; a second bar having a central portion and a longitudinal axis; and a connecting mechanism for fixedly but removably connecting the first and second bars together in a secure and fixed relationship to the T-post. The central portions of the first and second bars are adapted to be received around the T-post such that the longitudinal axes of the bars are substantially parallel to one another but substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the T-post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventors: Kendall M. Stephens, Norman D. Gideon
  • Patent number: 6340071
    Abstract: A rung-foldable ladder device for attaching to an upright structure for climbing thereupon. The rung-foldable ladder device includes an elongate tubular support member; and also includes a plurality of bracket members being securely attached to the elongate tubular support member and being adapted to removably fasten with straps about an upright structure; and further includes a plurality of rung members being pivotally attached to the elongate tubular support member; and also includes a cable being attached to the rung members for pivoting the rung members against the elongate tubular support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2002
    Inventor: Gerhard M. Diekemper
  • Patent number: 6170609
    Abstract: A system for sportsmen when hunting at an elevated location in a tree without harming the supporting tree including a base plates The base plate has an interior face positioned in contact with the exterior surface of a supporting tree and an exterior exposed face. The base plate has laterally spaced apertures adjacent to its edges. A threaded machine bolt has a diameter over the majority of its length and has an interior edge secured to the exterior surface of the base plate and an enlarged cylindrical exterior end. A coupling assembly is formed of two sections. Each section has an interior link permanently secured to an associated aperture in the base plate and has free ends. A locking assembly removably couples the base plate-coupling assembly to a tree. A support assembly has a downwardly extending auxiliary plate positionable over the base plate with an opening there through.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Inventor: Edwin F. Dech
  • Patent number: 5816362
    Abstract: A modular safety ladder system for climbing trees is provided, comprising a single support member having a lower end and an upper end; a bottom step attached to the lower end; a top step attached to the upper end; an intermediate step attached to the support member between the bottom step and the top step; a flexible strap attached to the support member for suspending the ladder module from the tree, wherein the strap is placed in tension when weight is exerted on the ladder module; first and second stabilizers attached to the upper end and the lower end of the support member, respectively, for stabilizing the ladder module against the tree, wherein the first and second stabilizers include surfaces which are caused to forcibly contact the tree when the strap is placed in tension; and a safety loop connected to the strap for allowing a secure attachment between the strap and a coupling device on the climber, wherein the safety loop is constructed in a manner to support the weight of the climber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Inventor: Joseph Robert Jenkins, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5806626
    Abstract: A portable safety ladder for climbing trees is provided, comprising a single primary support member having first step; a single secondary support member having a second step, wherein the secondary support member is slidable relative to the primary support member; a locking mechanism operatively disposed between the primary support member and the secondary support member for selectively locking the position of the secondary support member relative to the primary support member; a single flexible strap on the primary support member for suspending the ladder module from the tree, wherein the flexible strap is placed in tension when weight is exerted on the ladder module; first and second stabilizers attached to the primary support member and the secondary support member, respectively, for stabilizing the ladder module against the tree, wherein the first and second stabilizers include surfaces which are caused to forcibly contact the tree when the flexible strap is placed in tension; and a safety loop connected t
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventor: Joseph Robert Jenkins, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5143172
    Abstract: A slide and seek fire escape is provided for a high rise building having a roof and multiple floors. The fire escape consists of a plurality of balconies stacked one above the other for the roof and each floor of the building, with the balconies having right and left staggered escape apertures. A pair of elongated slide poles are also provided. One slide pole extends through the balconies in the center of the right escape apertures, while the other slide pole extends through the balconies in the center of the left escape apertures. A person can exit the building during a fire by entering one balcony and slide down one slide pole to the next balcony and walk to the other slide pole and slide down, thereby repeating the slide until the person reaches ground level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1992
    Inventor: Ward E. Rhoads
  • Patent number: 5125476
    Abstract: A ladder apparatus comprising a longitudinally elongated step support for mounting between an upper level and a lower level at a forward angle of inclination. The elongated support has an upper end and a lower end. A series of steps are mounted relative to the elongated support. A hinge assembly is mounted relative to the elongated support adjacent its upper end. The hinge assembly includes a pivot positioned adjacent one of the outer longitudinal edges enabling the ladder apparatus to be swung at least about 90.degree. between an operable position and a stowed position. The hinge assembly preferably comprises retaining means for inhibiting the ladder apparatus from swinging away from the operable position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1992
    Inventor: Harry G. Merrick
  • Patent number: 5109954
    Abstract: An improved apparatus supports weight on an upright structure. The apparatus has a frame with a weight bearing surface and a mechanism attached to the frame that grips the structure to hang the frame on the structure free of contact with the ground. The gripping mechanism can be easily attached to and removed from the structure by the user from a position on the ground. The force that gripping mechanism exerts to hold the frame in place upon the structure is directly proportional to the weight borne by the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1992
    Inventor: Helmut K. Skyba
  • Patent number: 5086873
    Abstract: A tree step including a steel rod bent into a configuration including an elongated central portion and a pair of perpendicularly oriented right triangular shaped portions extending perpendicularly from the central portion with one leg of each right triangular shaped portion being at opposite ends of the central portion and lying in parallel planes forming a pair of spaced apart 90 degree orientated steps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1992
    Inventor: Peter R. George
  • Patent number: 5040635
    Abstract: Tree pole ladder which includes first and second detachable sections. Each of the detachable sections pivotally supports laterally extending steps which the foldable from a horizontally extending position for climbing, to a storage position aligned with the pole section. The detachable sections are coupled together by a coupling section which permits the sections to be rapidly connected and detached to a pair of single pole sections which may be easily transported to remote locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1991
    Inventor: James C. Strickland
  • Patent number: 5033583
    Abstract: An apparatus including a planar support member including a forward and rear face; each face aligned parallel to one another with a through extending diamond shaped rod directed orthogonally through the forward and rear faces, with a square groove formed in the rod adjacent the rear face to receive a chain link grid member therein. An enclosing safety chain is positioned in surrounding relationship relative to the adjacent chain link fence and an upper rod of the rod members. A modification of the invention includes a step plate defined by a diamond shaped socket and a planar step member aligned with the socket securable to the rod members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1991
    Inventor: John Candelaria, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4981195
    Abstract: An alternating tread ladder apparatus and an associated tread step bracket are disclosed. The apparatus comprises an elongated central tread support for mounting between a upper level and a lower level at some predetermined forward angle of inclination. The tread support is provided with a plurality of generally laterally oriented tread support apertures positioned therealong and extending therethrough. The preferred embodiment tread step brackets are comprised of angled Z-shape. The upper arm of the Z is longer than the lower arm, and entends through one of the apertures in the central tread support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 1, 1991
    Inventor: Harry G. Merrick
  • Patent number: 4932497
    Abstract: For assisting ascent of metal frame towers where steps are not provided, a U-shape adapter is provided for temporarily mounting a step bolt. The adapter has spaced apart legs for straddling the flange of a tower structural member. A tapped bore through one of the legs receives the threaded shank of the step bolt, and the assembly can then be secured to the tower flange like a C-clamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 12, 1990
    Inventor: Paul C. Raso
  • Patent number: 4892170
    Abstract: A portable ladder assembly comprises a base, a supporting bracket, and a single rail ladder. The ladder assembly is particularly well suited for safely allowing human entry into a chamber with a confined area entry, such as a conventional manhole. The base member includes arms positionable on each side of the manhole entry for engaging a support surface, such as the ground, to prevent tipping of the ladder assembly. The bracket includes a rail receiving slot and a plurality of vertically spaced and downwardly directed rung receiving slots on opposing sides of the rail receiving slot. The ladder may be safely supported at various selected depths within the manhole by fitting the rail in selected rungs within their corresponding slots. The ladder assembly of the present invention does not significantly reduce the entry opening into the chamber, and may be safely used without being structurally dependent upon the manhole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1990
    Assignee: Avanti International
    Inventor: William P. O'Donnell
  • Patent number: 4867272
    Abstract: A tree step is disclosed, including a substantially L-shaped step member of constant cross section. The upright portion of the L-shape is provided with an aperture adapted to hang over a lag screw. The aperture is elongated, with its lower aspect being wide enough to allow it to be passed over the head of the lag screw, and its uppper aspect being somewhat narrower and unable to pass over the head of the lag screw. In the preferred embodiment, at least one and preferably two anchoring lugs project inwardly from a lower portion of the upright portion of the L-shape, each lug having a contoured lower surface and a somewhat pointed upper surface. The upright portion of the L-shape extends somewhat below the horizontal portion, with an integral strut provided between the horizontal portion and the downward extension of the upright portion. The lower portion of the aperture is shaped to match the head of the lag screw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1988
    Date of Patent: September 19, 1989
    Inventor: William C. Troubridge
  • Patent number: 4844207
    Abstract: A sportsman's ladder for allowing convenient climbing of trees and the like includes a number of sections assembled together in telescoping relationship. Each section has secured thereto a plurality of spaced-apart steps extending laterally from opposite sides thereof in an alternating manner. The ladder further includes a tree engaging means for mounting the ladder to a tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 4, 1989
    Inventors: Dale D. Andrews, Durwood T. Andrews
  • Patent number: 4830142
    Abstract: A portable fence stile comprising a metal tube of length greater than the height of the vertical fence support posts. The tube having longitudinal vertical slots on opposite sides extending from the bottom to a height slightly greater than the height of the top fence horizontal wire. Stepping distance from the bottom of the tube flat horizontal foot rests extending outwards from the tube on each side of the longitudinal slots. A pliable strap slidably affixed to the longitudinal slot for compressively holding the ends of the tube to prevent spreading or the attach the stile tube to a vertical wood fence post. A rigid horizontal handle at the top of the tube provides climber support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1989
    Inventor: Bernard T. McManus
  • Patent number: 4762200
    Abstract: A sportman's ladder for allowing convenient climbing of trees and the like includes upper and lower sections assembled together in telescoping relationship. Each section has secured thereto a plurality of spaced-apart steps extending laterally from opposite sides thereof in an alternating manner. The upper section includes a tree limb engaging hook formed as a square, cornered structure having angled gussets at the corners thereof for structural bracing and for improved modes of engagement on the tree limb. The upper section also has a pair of cleats which receive and mount the lower section to the upper section in stacked relationship with respect thereto for convenient carrying of the upper and lower sections when unassembled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1988
    Inventors: Dale D. Andrews, Durwood T. Andrews
  • Patent number: 4754841
    Abstract: This invention is a simple to make, simple to use, inexpensive step for use on rectangular wooden posts, such as those used in scaffolds. This step has a u shaped body with a portion that encompasses the posts, two "grips" in this portion which bite into the wood to keep the step in place, and a part to step upon. To move this step to a desired position, the part that is stepped upon is tilted up and out from the horizontal. This motion causes the two grips to disengage from the post and to be sufficiently removed from the post to allow the step to slide freely on this post. The step is fabricated from a single sheet of metal that is cut and bent to the desired design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1988
    Inventor: Leonard E. Koffski
  • Patent number: 4703832
    Abstract: An escape apparatus for elevated structures, such as multi-story buildings, offshore platforms and the like. An elongated pole is pivotally connected to the elevated structure to move between a stored position, in substantial alignment with a horizontal level of the structure, and a ready, substantially vertical position. A person escapes the elevated structure by sliding down the vertically positioned pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1987
    Inventor: Ozeman J. Fontenot
  • Patent number: 4700807
    Abstract: A tree step includes a means for driving an anchor screw into a tree and then removing the step from the anchor screw. The step comprises an L-shaped bracket having a horizontal foot support section and a vertical screw engaging section associated therewith. An outwardly facing channel having a square cross-sectional profile is incorporated into the vertical screw driving section. The square head of the screw is slipped into the open end of the channel which is located near the intersection of the horizontal and vertical sections and then advanced to the closed end of the channel. Rotation of the horizontal foot support section causes the screw to advance into the tree. Once the screw has advanced as far as posible, the step may then be used to support human weight. After use, the step can be slipped off of the anchor screw thereby leaving it in the tree for subsequent reuse. Alternatively, the step can be rotated in the reverse direction thereby backing the screw out so that it can be used on another tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1987
    Assignee: Foxcraft, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert E. Kubiak
  • Patent number: 4699248
    Abstract: An observation stand has a rectangular platform acting as a floor and removably secured, at its center, at the upper end of a mast. The latter is made up of a series of cylindrical tubes having generally the same length but decreasing in diameter, from one tube to the next, in order that the tubes may be slid one into the other with, of course, the larger tube on the outside. The mast is mounted by its base on a stake, driven into the ground, by means of a device which allows the mast to pivot with respect to the stake so that the stand may be completely mounted when lying over the ground before being straightened up into vertical position and then fixed in that vertical position. The mast is provided with removable rungs capable of giving access to a trap-door formed on the very platform. The latter is surrounded by a removable guardwall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1987
    Inventor: Roch Roy
  • Patent number: 4697669
    Abstract: A folding portable tree step includes a channel-shape support leg pivotally mounted at a bottom portion to a channel-shape foot member so that when the two are folded for storage purposes, both channel members are open in the same direction. A special lag screw with a square head is pivotally and slidably mounted to an upper portion of the support arm, and a lag screw pivot pin slidably mounts the screw into cam-like guides provided in the channel legs of the support leg. When the lag screw extends outwardly from the support leg and the folded foot member, and the screw pivot pin is in the lower portion of the guide slot, the head of the lag screw is held by the web of the support leg channel so that the lag screw will not pivot when being initially driven into a tree. When the lag screw is moved longitudinally with respect to the support leg, the pivot pin moves the square screw head away from the support leg channel web, and the screw can be pivoted with respect to the support leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1987
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1987
    Inventor: Arvid H. Bergsten
  • Patent number: 4674598
    Abstract: The single pole hunting stand is supported on one leg and is stabilized using guy wires. The guy wires can be attached to stakes which are placed in the ground or attached to surrounding objects such as rocks, trees, or roots. The single pole configuration allows erection on any terrain with or without attaching to trees. The single pole hunting stand allows unobstructed 360 degree field of view and provides complete rotational freedom of movement with a swivel seat that is attached to the top of the pole. The swivel seat with back rest may be elevated to the desired height by changing the length of the pole.The pole is equipped with steps which allows for easy and quiet access and egress to the swivel chair without having to adjust or move the stand. The single pole device does not attach directly to a single tree or require climbing a tree for access or egress, thus no environmental damage results. The single pole supports the hunter's weight without imposing the total hunter load on a tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1987
    Inventors: Harold L. Sides, Kurt M. Marshek
  • Patent number: 4674597
    Abstract: A portable apparatus for climbing a tree, pole or the like includes a housing with a tree engaging face and a step, a line carried on the housing, and a reel. The line is movable between a retracted position wherein the line is contained within the housing for storage and transport and an extended position wherein the line is attached to the housing on the tree for climbing. A distal end of the line includes a latching block. The latching block is received and retained within a latching slot in the housing after encircling the tree or pole with the line. A biasing spring connected to the reel mechanism assures the take-up of any slack in the line. Following the take-up of slack, a locking pin is moved along a guide track in the housing until it engages a locking slot in the reel. The pin and slot cooperate to maintain the reel in position, thereby positively preventing the paying out of line and allowing safe tree climbing by stepping on the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1987
    Inventor: Denver L. Humphrey