Automatic Control Patents (Class 182/19)
  • Patent number: 11724136
    Abstract: A fall-protection apparatus that includes a computing device configured to detect a mechanical command signal, and methods of using such an apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2023
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Matthew J. Blackford, Steven T. Awiszus, Ronald D. Jesme, Eric C. Lobner
  • Patent number: 11718426
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for servicing objects such as a launch vehicle or an aircraft with an elevated platform that conforms to differently sized and shaped objects. The platform can have telescoping planks that extend to conform to the outer surface of the object. Glide pads with low friction surfaces, rollers, etc. can reduce the friction between a plank and a supporting surface and between adjacent planks such that planks can be manually moved into position. In addition, the plank holders can limit the planks to a linear movement, secure the planks to a supporting surface, and control the friction force between the planks and the supporting surface. Further still, the supporting surface can be a carrier and/or a support that moves the planks closer to the object and tilts the planks out of the way so that an object can be positioned within the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2023
    Assignee: UNITED LAUNCH ALLIANCE, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Steven F. Duschl, Daniel P. Norfolk, Mark J. Dornseif
  • Patent number: 11691859
    Abstract: A lift device includes a chassis, a platform configured to support a user, a lift assembly coupling the platform to the chassis, an actuator configured to at least one of (a) move the platform relative to the chassis or (b) propel the chassis, a sensor assembly, and a controller. The sensor assembly includes a rod including a first end portion coupled to the platform and a second end portion opposite the first end portion, a housing defining an aperture sized to receive the second end portion of the rod, and a sensor coupled to the housing and configured to provide a signal in response to the second end portion of the rod exiting the aperture. The controller is operatively coupled to the sensor and the actuator and configured to control the actuator in response to receiving the signal from the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2022
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2023
    Assignee: Oshkosh Corporation
    Inventors: Fredric L. Yutzy, Korry D. Kobel, John Hill
  • Patent number: 11623108
    Abstract: In an illustrative embodiment, systems and methods for verifying safety compliance of a worker positioned on a building structure utilize a motion detector module (MDM) for attaching to a wearable safety harness, where the harness has a lifeline attachment feature for connecting the safety harness to a lifeline anchored to the building structure. The MDM may include a motion sensor for detecting movement of the worker and processing circuitry for detecting, from signals provided by the motion sensor, significant movement indicative of the safety harness being properly worn by the worker and/or proper attachment of the safety harness to a lifeline, and translating the significant movements into compliance information. The MDM may include a proximate sensor for detecting contact between the attachment feature on the harness and a fastener on the lifeline for verifying the compliance information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2022
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2023
    Assignee: US SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES LLC
    Inventors: George Altemose, Daniel W. Marino, John Gedde
  • Patent number: 11485621
    Abstract: Sensors on an aerial lift device determine the number of occupants in and occupant portion of the aerial lift device. Prior to permitting the occupant portion to rise up off the ground, the system checks the engagement of safety harnesses to verify that the number of engaged safety harnesses matches the number of occupants in the occupant portion of the aerial lift. If the number matches, operation of the aerial lift may be enabled and the occupant portion deployed. If the number does not match, an alarm is sounded and deployment of the occupant portion may be disabled. With pre-deployment safety testing, and no occupants in the occupant portion, the occupant portion may be deployed to verify all operational status of the occupant portion with no occupants. The system may further create a data log to verify the time and successful pre-deployment safety check.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Assignee: Tricon Sales LLC
    Inventors: Adrian Men Gee Yip, Anand Rajaratnam, Doug Morrison, Howard Gene Trott, Kent Deric Eldredge, Mark Alexander Thomas
  • Patent number: 11486154
    Abstract: A perimeter protection system for protecting operators against lateral falling when installing formwork panels in a horizontal formwork system. According to one embodiment the perimeter protection system includes a perimeter protection structure configured for being fixed, in a working position, to the horizontal formwork system, and at least one auxiliary device configured for being fixed to the horizontal formwork system and for fixing the perimeter protection structure to the horizontal formwork system. The auxiliary device includes guiding means collaborating with a guide of the perimeter protection structure for positioning the perimeter protection structure in an initial assembly position. In the initial assembly position the structure is configured to be raised up to an intermediate position where it is permitted to swing until it is positioned in the working position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Assignee: ULMA C Y E, S. COOP.
    Inventors: Yildray Eroglu, Roberto Sobral Villanueva
  • Patent number: 10689864
    Abstract: An automated brick laying system is provided including platform means, mortar application means for allowing mortar to be applied to a brick in use, and brick gripping means for allowing at least one brick to be gripped in use. At least one of the mortar application means and the brick gripping means is movably mounted on or to the platform means and is arranged to be independently movable relative to the platform means in use. At least one of the mortar application means and the brick gripping means is capable of or is arranged to undergo linear and/or sliding movement along at least three separate and pre-defined axes of movement in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Assignee: Construction Automation Ltd.
    Inventor: Stuart Parkes
  • Patent number: 10273132
    Abstract: An electronic backbone architecture is configured to provide electrical power to an aerial device. The isolated electronic backbone architecture comprises: a power source for generating electrical power, a first actuator, a first electrical motor for powering the first actuator, a second actuator, a second electrical motor for powering the second actuator, and a protected electrical line. The first actuator is disposed adjacent to the first electrical motor. The second actuator is disposed adjacent to the second electrical motor. The protected electrical line is configured to carry electrical current between the power source, the first electrical motor, and the second electrical motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2019
    Assignee: Altec Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Tyler G. Sheeley
  • Patent number: 10161389
    Abstract: A device 1 for enabling access to a rotor blade 54 of a wind turbine, said device being adapted for being moved in the longitudinal direction of the rotor blade 54, the device comprising a frame structure 2, means for supporting and guiding the device in relation to the rotor blade, means for lowering and/or lifting the device in relation to the rotor blade, wherein said means for supporting and guiding the device in relation to the rotor blade are configured for contacting the rotor blade at regions at or near the front edge of the rotor blade and at or near the rear edge of the rotor blade, and wherein said means for supporting and guiding the device in relation to the rotor blade are configured for being adjusted to the rotor blade during movement of the device in order to maintain controllable contact at said regions, and wherein said means for supporting and guiding the device in relation to the rotor blade comprises a plurality of contact means 12, 14 at least one of which is adapted for being o
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Assignee: PP ENERGY APS
    Inventor: Paul Teichert
  • Patent number: 9790069
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a scissor lift comprising a passenger basket. The scissor lift also comprises a base that comprises wheels. The scissor lift further comprises a scissor extension mechanism between the passenger basket and the base. The scissor extension mechanism is configured to raise the passenger basket in a first direction relative to the base and lower the passenger basket in a second direction, opposite the first direction, relative to the base. The scissor lift additionally comprises a through-beam sensor system co-movably coupled to the scissor extension mechanism. The through-beam sensor system moves in a third direction, perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction, when the scissor extension mechanism raises the passenger basket and moves in a fourth direction, opposite the third direction, when the scissor extension mechanism lowers the passenger basket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Gordon D. Davis, Gary M. Buckus, William W. Cleary, Farshad Forouhar, Vincent E. Engdahl, Curtis N. Sovereen
  • Patent number: 9410331
    Abstract: A magnetic anchor system, method, and device for attaching a rigging line to an elevated work structure. A transport vehicle may be used to position and attach at least one magnetic anchor to the elevated work structure, while being operated by a user at a safe location. Upon attachment of the magnetic anchor the strength of the magnetic connection of the primary magnetic anchor to the work structure is tested before anything is attached to a rigging line secured to the magnetic anchor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2016
    Assignee: SKY CLIMBER ACCESS SOLUTIONS ATLANTA LLC
    Inventors: Todd King, George M. Anasis
  • Patent number: 9079756
    Abstract: An elevating platform including a chassis having a motor drive unit, a platform, elevator for elevating the platform relative to the chassis, sensors for delivering signals representative of a configuration of the elevating platform or its environment, a control unit for controlling the elevator means as a function of a plurality of parameters, including parameters corresponding to the signals delivered by the sensors, and a selector for selecting at least one priority parameter and a threshold value for the parameter whereby the control unit determines operating conditions for the elevating platform under which the threshold value for the priority parameter can be reached, and for controlling at least the elevator within a limit of the operating conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2015
    Assignee: HAULOTTE GROUP
    Inventor: Slaheddine Beji
  • Publication number: 20150144424
    Abstract: A suspension work platform hoist system for raising and lowering a work platform is provided. The system incorporates at least one hoist attached to the work platform and in electrical communication with a hoist control system has a data transmitter to transmit data to a remote location, a data receiver to receive data from the remote location, and/or a monitoring and diagnostic system to monitor and record at least one of a plurality of operating characteristics of the hoist. The hoist control system may further include a safety lock out system that requires authentication of an operator prior to the hoist control system causing movement of the hoist system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2015
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Inventors: George M. Anasis, Robert E. Eddy, Gary E. Ingram, Jean-Francois DeSmedt, Hui Li
  • Publication number: 20150122579
    Abstract: An elevated platform system comprises a platform, a vision system configured to detect a number of people on the platform, and a plurality of restraining systems onboard the platform. Each restraining system includes a passive RFID tag secured to the platform and a reader configured to perform near field detection of the tag.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2014
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Applicant: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventors: Jonathan B. Vance, Steven A. Dorris, Al Salour, Douglas D. Trimble
  • Patent number: 8985275
    Abstract: A lift safety system that prevents the lifting of a support platform from a support base until all of the support legs for the support base are supporting a minimum amount of weight to ensure stability of the lift. The support base includes a plurality of legs that extend outwardly with each of the legs having an adjustment member with a pad that engages a ground surface. As the adjustment member is adjusted downwardly with respect to the leg, a first engaging member connected to the adjustment member is elevated upwardly to engage a second engaging member thereby releasing a corresponding finger member attached to the support platform from the support base. Once all of the legs are supporting a minimum amount of weight, all of the finger members are released from the support base thereby allowing elevation of the support platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Reechcraft, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason M. Solhjem, Shane L. Nickel
  • Publication number: 20150027808
    Abstract: A fall arresting/prevention safety protection device for aerial lifts that delivers notifications and warnings to individuals who are subject to accidental falls or other safety hazards when performing construction or the like or when operating elevating construction machinery such as aerial lift work platforms, bucket trucks and similar type elevating work platforms. The invention further provides a load sensor that when activated transmits an emergency signal to operators, supervisors and emergency personnel. The present invention further provides a remote control to access and control movement of the aerial lift through a wireless transmission in the event the lift operator falls out of or is ejected from the bucket or work platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventors: Paul D. Baillargeon, Van Walbridge
  • Publication number: 20140332314
    Abstract: The invention relates to a boom lift, including a frame provided with a means for moving on the surface of the ground, a platform, a means for lifting the platform relative to the frame, and a console (8) for controlling, from said platform, the moving means and/or the lifting means. The control console (8) includes two half-consoles (81, 82), each of which is provided with at least one lever (811, 821) or button (812, 822, 813, 823) for manually controlling the boom lift, and arranged on either side of an operator on the platform in a position for using the levers or button with both hands, while the space (V8) located opposite the operator in said position has no control levers or buttons.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Applicant: Haulott Group
    Inventors: Christophe Carrillo, Gaëtan Godineau, Slaheddine Beji
  • Publication number: 20140305738
    Abstract: The present invention refers to a turntable ladder system (18), comprising a turntable ladder (20) mounted on top of a rescue vehicle (10) and comprising an arm (24) that can be bent downwardly to the ground (28) in front of the driver's cabin (12) of the vehicle (10), and an operator stand (32, 40) located at the ladder (20) for operating the ladder (20), said operator stand (32, 40) comprising control means (34, 42) for controlling a movement of the arm (24). This turntable ladder system is characterized by manually operable confirmation means (36) located at the front of or laterally at the driver's cabin (12), said confirmation means (36) being operatively connected to the control means (34, 42) such that the bending movement of the arm (24) can be controlled by the control means (34, 42) only in case the confirmation means (36) are operated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Applicant: Iveco Magirus AG
    Inventors: Christoph Lauterjung, Rene Peper
  • Patent number: 8813910
    Abstract: An operator cage (6) for a machine such as a mobile elevating work platform comprises a base unit (22) and a fence assembly (25), a control console (32) and a load sensor (46) that is constructed and arranged to sense an external load applied to the console. The console (32) is mounted for pivoting movement and the load sensor (46) is constructed and arranged to detect movement of the console from an unloaded condition to a loaded condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: NiftyLift Limited
    Inventor: Roger Bowden
  • Publication number: 20140196985
    Abstract: A fall arrest safety apparatus on a rope comprising a rotary roller mounted on a pivoting arm with speed detection, and a control selector of a ratchet. The latter is able to occupy a released inactive position enabling the roller to rotate in both directions of rotation in a first fall arrest operating mode, and an active position with unidirectional blocking of the roller in rotation with respect to the arm in the descending direction corresponding to a second operating mode of the apparatus as a simple ascender.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2014
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Applicant: Zedel
    Inventors: Julien MOINE, Michael CHAUMONTET
  • Patent number: 8723638
    Abstract: A joystick controller is disclosed for controlling speed of a boom lift platform, the controller having motors or the like that provide tactile feedback that is intuitively interpreted and adjusted by the user of the joystick speed control, the joystick being neutrally-biased to effect a null velocity when the joystick is positioned in a neutral position, but the tactile feedback forcing the joystick away from neutral to a degree that represents the platform's actual speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Enovation Controls, LLC
    Inventor: Kennon H Guglielmo
  • Publication number: 20140110190
    Abstract: A pothole protection assembly is cooperable with a support base of a scissor lift. The support base includes front wheels, rear wheels and a chassis. The pothole protection assembly includes a pair of front pothole bars fixed to the chassis and each positioned adjacent the front wheels, respectively, and a pair of rear pothole bars fixed to the chassis and each positioned adjacent the rear wheels, respectively. A space between the front wheels and the rear wheels defines a ground clearance zone, where the front pothole bars and the rear pothole bars are disposed at opposing ends of the ground clearance zone. The assembly is constructed and arranged to maximize a breakover angle in a scissor lift with fixed pothole protection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2012
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: JLG Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Jesse Sollers, Devin Rosencrance, Troy Young
  • Patent number: 8695759
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for safely lowering a user from a structure. The apparatus includes a user support component upon which the user is supported while being safely lowered from the structure. The apparatus includes a brake system that has two hydraulic brakes configured to apply first and second defined pressures on a brake pad against a track situated proximate the structure. The track is configured not to activate the first and second hydraulic brakes at an upper vertical section of the track to allow the apparatus to descend with a positive acceleration; activate only the first hydraulic brake at a middle vertical section of the track to allow the apparatus to descend with a substantially constant velocity; and activate only the second hydraulic brake at a lower vertical section of the track to allow the apparatus to descend with a negative acceleration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Inventor: Ralph L. Michael
  • Publication number: 20140054110
    Abstract: Method for accessing the outer surface of wind turbine towers comprising the following steps: attaching an external peripheral rail on the outer surface of the tower; making an orifice above said rail; arranging a working platform on the base of the tower; inserting a cable reel in the orifice; raising the platform by driving the cable reel until it is near the peripheral rail; arranging means for suspension and horizontal displacement on the horizontal rail; connecting the platform to said means for suspension and horizontal displacement and displacing the platform as needed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2012
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: INNEO TORRES, S.L.
    Inventors: Miguel Ángel Fernández Gómez, José Emilio Jimeno Chueca
  • Patent number: 8602161
    Abstract: A climb assist system is disclosed that dynamically adjust the rate and level of assist of a climber as the climber needs may change over the period of traverse of the ladder. A sensor detects the state of a person, such as the load exerted by the climber on a ladder exerts on an assist rope, to provide an upward support force on the climber to compensate the climber's weight. Additionally, a sender is provided to transmit the load data to a receiver and a receiver to receive the data from the sender. A controller interprets the received data and thereafter provides control through a controlled motor and drive to provide energy to the assist rope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Safeworks, LLC
    Inventors: Christopher Gavin Brickell, John Jerome Haigh
  • Patent number: 8596416
    Abstract: A system configured for lifting or lowering a tool carriage device via a ladder climbing structure is described. The tool carriage device may be adapted to enclose and transport a payload and include a fall arrest grab with an overspeed brake to stop an uncontrolled descent of the carriage device. The tool carriage device may include obstruction sensors to detect an obstruction along the path of the carriage device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Safeworks, LLC
    Inventors: Gregory Crew, John Haigh, Morgan Knickrehm
  • Publication number: 20130313040
    Abstract: A safety device for an aerial lift (10) having operator controls (23) for manoeuvring its basket (20) to a desired location and including at least one passive normally closed safety switch means (30)(130), e.g. m emergency switch, operable to cut electrical supply and prevent further movement of the basket (20), the safety device comprising a switch activation device (27,160,170) extending across the basket proximate to said controls (23) and an auxiliary safety switch (26) connected in series with the safely switch means (30,130) with its contacts C1 normally closed (switch on) unless caused to open (switch off) by operation of said switch activation means, thereby cutting off said electrical supply.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Applicant: BLUE SKY SOLUTIONS LIMITED
    Inventors: Paul Cummings, Kevin Jonathan Gale, Allan Malcolm Starck
  • Publication number: 20130313042
    Abstract: A control system optimized for low-power operation includes an electronic valve controller for controlling a hydraulic valve and a control interface for receiving operating commands from a user and communicating the operating commands to the electronic valve controller. The control interface includes a multi-function single hand control with a plurality of position indicating elements for detecting actuation of the single hand control, a master enable associated with all of the position indicating elements, and a plurality of individual enable elements each associated with one of the position indicating elements. A controller directs operation of the control interface and is configured to sample a position indicating element only if the master enable is asserted and the corresponding individual enable element is asserted. Other aspects of the control system minimize power consumption, including fast sampling that allows the controller to spend more time in a low power mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Applicant: Altec Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Jon Freeman, Joshua Daniel Mueller, Allen Leon Maag, David Lavern Ross, Mark D. Greer
  • Patent number: 8584800
    Abstract: A load monitoring system (14) is provided for a mobile work platform that includes an operator platform (6), a base (2) and a lift mechanism (5) for lifting the operator platform relative to the base. The load monitoring system includes a load cell (12) for monitoring the load on the operator platform (6) and a control device (16) for controlling operation of the work platform, wherein the control device (16) is constructed and arranged to sense and monitor both static and dynamic loads on the operator platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: NiftyLift Limited
    Inventor: Frank Roger Bowden
  • Publication number: 20130292204
    Abstract: A suspension work platform hoist system having a variable acceleration motor control system and a tilt control system. The tilt control system includes at least one tilt sensor to sense a tilt angle of the work platform and generate a tilt signal. A tilt controller receives the tilt signal and generates a speed control signal, which is used by the variable acceleration motor control system to control the operation of the hoist motors to maintain a tilt angle setpoint as the work platform is raised and lowered. The tilt control system may include a settling mode having a settling tilt angle setpoint, wherein the settling mode prevents the work platform from being raised or lowered until the tilt angle of the work platform reaches the settling tilt angle setpoint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Inventors: James Bonanno, Robert E. Eddy
  • Publication number: 20130240294
    Abstract: A step stool includes an inner frame, an outer frame, an actuator, and a coupler. The inner frame includes two inner pillars, and the outer frame includes two outer pillars attached to a platform near opposite ends of the platform and configured to receive the two inner pillars. The actuator is coupled to one of the two inner pillars and one of the two outer pillars, and is operable to raise the outer frame relative to the inner frame. The coupler couples the two outer pillars to each other to evenly lift the opposite ends of the platform when the actuator raises the outer frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2013
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Inventor: Jerry Dean Worley
  • Publication number: 20130233645
    Abstract: A work platform for a personnel lift includes a floor structure, a safety rail coupled with the floor structure and defining a personnel work area, and a control panel area. A protection envelope surrounds the control panel area and enhances protection for an operator from an obstruction or structure that may constitute a crushing hazard. In one arrangement, the protection envelope includes protection bars on either side of the control panel area extending above the safety rail relative to the floor structure. In another arrangement, the protection envelope includes a platform switch that is configured to trip upon an application of a predetermined force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: JLG INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Ji Hong Hao, Ignacy Puszkiewicz, Jacob W. Snyder, Alan Gillman
  • Patent number: 8505684
    Abstract: An aerial work platform apparatus and method for automatically leveling a mobile aerial work platform, including a base frame, a movable platform, a lift mechanism configured to move the platform in a substantially vertical direction with respect to the base frame, a stabilizing assembly including at least one outrigger leg mounted on the base frame, and a control assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventor: Marc Bogue
  • Patent number: 8479885
    Abstract: A belay device for protecting a climber on a rope from a fall has a powered winding reel to which the rope is attached. A control mechanism acts to prevent slack in the rope between the climber and the winding reel and includes load sensor that which, on detecting the weight of the climber on the rope, switches the operation of the device to a fall or descent mode where the winding reel is stopped and the climber is suspended by the rope. An electronic control and diagnostic system monitors the operation of the winding reel and switches its operation to a safe, fault mode when a fault is detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Limpet Holdings (U.K.) Limited
    Inventor: David Kennedy Taylor
  • Publication number: 20130153334
    Abstract: Climbing aid comprises a traction carriage (14) having a motor for hanging the user and for automatic movement along a ladder. Preferred Features: The drive has a current supply module formed as an exchangeable accumulator. The carriage is detachedly held on the ladder and moves along a side rail and/or along a guide rail (16) of the ladder. The drive torque of the motor can be adjusted to the weight of the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Applicant: SAFEWORKS, LLC
    Inventors: Gregory Crew, John Haigh, Morgan Knickrehm
  • Patent number: 8434592
    Abstract: A mobile tower drive system for efficiently attaching a removable drive system to a scaffolding unit and driving the scaffolding unit from the work platform. The mobile tower drive system generally includes a lower unit adapted to be secured to a lower end of a scaffolding unit, wherein the lower unit has a wheel to operably engage a floor surface and move between an engaged and disengaged position. The lower unit removably attaches to an upper unit, wherein the upper unit is secured relative the upper frame of the scaffolding unit. Both, the lower unit and the upper unit employ coaxial drives for turning and driving the wheel. The coaxial drive also is used to brake the wheel. The coaxial drives are generally controlled via manually operable rotational control levers; however automated power sources may be utilized. Also disclosed are swivel locks for the caster wheels of the scaffolding unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Telpro, Inc.
    Inventor: Roland O. Young
  • Patent number: 8408360
    Abstract: A warning system for use with a climbing wall and an automatic belay apparatus for belaying a climber, the warning system providing a warning that a climber is not protected by the auto-belay apparatus. The warning system includes a sensor positioned to sense that a lower end of the climbing rope is secured to the climbing wall and the climber is not attached to the auto-belay system which indicates a dangerous situation, and a height sensor for sensing when the climber has reached a selected height on the climbing wall. A processor receives signals from the sensors and compares the signals to determine if the climber has reached the selected height with the lower end of the climbing wall still secured to the wall, and if so, then actuates a warning alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: NICROS, Inc.
    Inventor: Nathan B. Postma
  • Publication number: 20130043092
    Abstract: A safety equipment deployment system includes a sensor for receiving input, circuitry for determining whether the input satisfies a time pattern requirement and, responsive to determining satisfaction of the time pattern requirement, triggering release of safety equipment. The safety equipment can include a foldable ladder fixed to a stanchion. The safety equipment can include a device attached to a cord that extends from a bobbin below deck, through a hollow stanchion, and out a top end of the stanchion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2012
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas W. Clardy
  • Publication number: 20120318610
    Abstract: An aerial lift (10) having a basket or cage (20) having a control panel (23) for an operator standing in the basket to manoeuvre the basket to a desired location, a safety switch means (18,24,25) operable to prevent further movement of the basket in unsafe conditions, and a safety device comprising a load cell 56 or strain gauge on the cage (20) and an auxiliary safety switch (59) operatively connected to the load cell (56) via an amplifier (58) is connected in series with the safety switch means (18,24,28), the auxiliary switch (59) being operable to cut off power to the safety switch means (18,24,25) when the sensed load on the cage exceeds a predetermined value, typically if the load strikes a stationary object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2010
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Inventor: Paul Cummings
  • Publication number: 20120279801
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for providing ascent assistance comprising: a motive force generator; a motive force applicator operably linked to the motive force generator, and, in use of the apparatus, an object to which the motive force applicator applies a motive force, and a control mechanism comprising a load sensing means and a haulage force application means; said control mechanism being formed and arranged so as to control the motive force generator in a first, calibration, in which it detects a load applied to motive force applicator by the object and said haulage force is determined as a percentage of the applied load; the control mechanism being operable to switch the operation of the motive force generator into a second, assisted ascent mode. The invention further relates to a method for assisting a user in an ascent when working at height.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2010
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventors: Jonathan Watson, James Godsell, Jesper Frederiksen, Oliver Bassi, Alastair Kilgour
  • Patent number: 8292028
    Abstract: An improved fall arrest lanyard apparatus and method for decelerating and arresting a user from impacting the ground after a fall, along with an integrated, deployable etrier. After the fall sequence has ended, the user may orient himself in a comfortable position using the deployed etrier so as to prevent or relieve the effects of suspension trauma while the user awaits rescue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Tech Safety Lines, Inc.
    Inventor: Brent Wise
  • Patent number: 8281895
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a stop element for a securing device, with a contact element. A locking device is shiftable between unlocked and locked states. The stop element is attachable to and releasable from the securing element in the unlocked state and not releasable from the securing element in the locked state. The locking device has an actuating device which is shiftable between an active position and a passive position and when in its active position blocks the locking device in its unlocked state and is transferable into its passive position, in which the locking device is shiftable into its locked state, when the stop element is attached to the securing element. The contact element may form part of the actuating device such that the actuating device can be shifted into its passive position when the securing element contacts the contact element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: fazinatour Touristik-Training-Event GmbH
    Inventor: Stefan Gassner
  • Publication number: 20120175186
    Abstract: A climb assist system is disclosed that dynamically adjust the rate and level of assist of a climber as the climber needs may change over the period of traverse of the ladder. A sensor detects the state of a person, such as the load exerted by the climber on a ladder exerts on an assist rope, to provide an upward support force on the climber to compensate the climber's weight. Additionally, a sender is provided to transmit the load data to a receiver and a receiver to receive the data from the sender. A controller interprets the received data and thereafter provides control through a controlled motor and drive to provide energy to the assist rope.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2012
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Applicant: SAFEWORKS, LLC
    Inventors: Christopher Gavin Brickell, John Jerome Haigh
  • Publication number: 20120160604
    Abstract: A control system for a machine having an elevating operator cage, includes a control device (102), an input for activation signals (106), an input for control signals (108), an input for load signals (112) and an output for drive control signals (114), wherein the control device (102) is constructed and arranged to issue a stop drive control signal upon receiving a load signal, and to issue an override signal that overrides the stop drive control signal upon receiving an override input signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2010
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Inventor: Roger Bowden
  • Patent number: 8205718
    Abstract: A belay device for protecting a climber on a rope from a fall has a powered winding reel to which the rope is attached. A control mechanism acts to prevent slack in the rope between the climber and the winding reel and includes load sensor that which, on detecting the weight of the climber on the rope, switches the operation of the device to a fall or descent mode where the winding reel is stopped and the climber is suspended by the rope. An electronic control and diagnostic system monitors the operation of the winding reel and switches its operation to a safe, fault mode when a fault is detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Limpet Holdings (U.K.) Limited
    Inventor: David Kennedy Taylor
  • Patent number: 8141681
    Abstract: A climb assist system is disclosed that dynamically adjust the rate and level of assist of a climber as the climber needs may change over the period of traverse of the ladder. A sensor detects the state of a person, such as the load exerted by the climber on a ladder exerts on an assist rope, to provided an upward support force on the climber to compensate the climber's weight. Additionally, a sender is provided to transmit the load data to a receiver and a receiver to receive the data from the sender. A controller interprets the received data and thereafter provides control through a controlled motor and drive to provide energy to the assist rope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Safeworks, LLC
    Inventors: Christopher Gavin Brickell, John Jerome Haigh
  • Publication number: 20110214942
    Abstract: The lift assembly eliminates the need for unsightly items such as step ladders, stools etc. in the personal kitchen area. It provides safe, easy access to upper areas that are difficult to reach. The lift assembly has a step that extends automatically by a convenient and simple toe tap to the cabinet kick panel located at the bottom of all standard kitchen cabinets. Upon extension, the step raises to a height of up to ten inches. Once a person has stepped off the step a load sensor first triggers the automatic lowering of the step and then urges the front movable section of the telescoping frame to retract back under the cabinet where it is out of sight and ready for use again. No unsightly ladders, no tripping over step stools.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Inventor: Kenneth Robert Niemiec
  • Publication number: 20110127108
    Abstract: A device 1 for enabling access to a rotor blade 54 of a wind turbine, said device being adapted for being moved in the longitudinal direction of the rotor blade 54, the device comprising a frame structure 2, means for supporting and guiding the device in relation to the rotor blade, means for lowering and/or lifting the device in relation to the rotor blade, wherein said means for supporting and guiding the device in relation to the rotor blade are configured for contacting the rotor blade at regions at or near the front edge of the rotor blade and at or near the rear edge of the rotor blade, and wherein said means for supporting and guiding the device in relation to the rotor blade are configured for being adjusted to the rotor blade during movement of the device in order to maintain controllable contact at said regions, and wherein said means for supporting and guiding the device in relation to the rotor blade comprises a plurality of contact means 12, 14 at least one of which is adapted for being omnid
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2009
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Applicant: PP ENERGY APS
    Inventor: Paul Teichert
  • Publication number: 20110127109
    Abstract: A device 1 for enabling access to a rotor blade 54 of a wind turbine, said device being adapted for being moved in the longitudinal direction of the rotor blade 54, the device comprising a frame 2, means for supporting and guiding the device in relation to the rotor blade, means for lowering and/or lifting the device in relation to the rotor blade, wherein said frame 2 comprises a first end and a second end, wherein said means for supporting and guiding the device in relation to the rotor blade comprise a first part 10 configured for contacting the rotor blade at regions at or near the rear edge of the rotor blade and a second part 8 located essentially at or near the second end of the frame and configured for contacting the rotor blade at regions at or near the front edge of the rotor blade, and wherein said means for lowering and/or lifting the device in relation to the rotor blade comprise suspension means, by means of which the frame 2 is suspended in a triangular configuration, wherein said triangular co
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2009
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Applicant: PP ENERGY APS
    Inventor: Paul Teichert
  • Publication number: 20110041267
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a multi-purpose load lifting work platform or/and composite bridge structure, comprising a framework, at least one work platform, a drive mechanism, and an electrical control devices. One end of the pole-shaped structure is connected with the framework in a movable manner, and the other end of the pole-shaped structure is connected with the work platform in a movable manner, the work platform can run with the pole-shaped structure together. The work platform can run in a curve track relative to the framework by power, and can stop at any position in running track. This invention can provide two platforms working coordinately or a single platform working independently. The working area of the two platforms greatly exceeds that of the existing common equipment with a single platform. It can load bulky objects without sway, and can also be used as composite or assembly bridge structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2009
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Applicant: Beijing Shengtianyl Parking Management Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Meng Sun