Abstract: Portable RFID device (300), usable in an access and/or presence control system, comprising a radio frequency transmitter module (305) connected to an accelerometer (315) that is configured to detect movements of the portable RFID device (300), wherein the portable RFID device (300) is configured to be powered by a battery (325), wherein the accelerometer (315) is configured to send to the radio frequency transmitter module (305) a value of detected acceleration of the portable RFID device (300), and the radio frequency transmitter module (305) is configured to recognize when said value of detected acceleration is higher than a minimum threshold and, in this case, to activate for a transmission period a transmission of a radio frequency signal including an identification code.

Abstract: Described herein is a system, method of use and Self Retracting Lifeline (SRL) apparatus using a system that governs a dynamic response between members causing a halt in relative motion between the members. Magnetic interactions, eddy current drag forces and centrifugal and/or inertial forces may provide various mechanisms of governing movement.

Abstract: A self-retracting lifeline including a housing, a drum mounted for rotation in the housing, a lifeline wrapped around the drum and extending from the housing, and a rotary energy absorber unit including at least one mount adapted for selective rotation in the housing, and an energy absorber adapted to absorb energy in response to the mount rotating relative to the housing.

Abstract: A speed-controllable lifter includes a movable plate, a fixed plate which connected with a hanging ring via a sliding rope. The movable plate is hanged on the sliding rope. A speed control device is provided in the fixed plate, having a stop hub, two stop pads, two arc-shaped stop pad supports and an adjustment means which includes an upper camshaft, a lower camshaft and an adjustment shaft arranged on the upper camshaft for adjusting an opening degree between movable ends of the two stop pad supports. A brake device is provided in the movable plate, having a brake drum, two brake pads, two arc-shaped brake pad supports and a brake means which includes a driving shaft, a driven shaft and a control bar arranged on the driving shaft for controlling a degree of the tightness of movable ends of the two brake pad supports.

Abstract: Described herein is a system, method of use and Self Retracting Lifeline (SRL) apparatus using a system that governs a dynamic response between members causing a halt in relative motion between the members. Magnetic interactions, eddy current drag forces and centrifugal and/or inertial forces may provide various mechanisms of governing movement.

Abstract: A centrifugal brake mechanism for a controlled descent device, and a drum device employing it. The brake mechanism comprises a circular wheel configured and operable to rotate about an axis of rotation, an axle extending along and rotatable about the axis inside a central cavity of the wheel and having two or more parallel shaft rods extending inside the cavity substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation, a gear system for transferring rotations of the wheel into counter-rotations of the axle, one or more brake elements each having two or more pass-through bores for slidably mounting over the two or more parallel shaft rods, two or more springs mounted over the parallel shaft rods between the brake element and the axle, and a friction enhancement mechanism for increasing friction forces between the brake elements and the inner wall the wheel responsive to increase in angular velocity of the wheel.

Abstract: Variable behaviour control mechanism with a variety of motion characteristics, the mechanism comprising means to measure a plurality of motion characteristics and to activate systems when a threshold of the motion characteristics is reached. The mechanism described is, for example, a vehicle seat belt and the mechanism minimises or prevents unwanted activation of line extension or retraction of the seat belt. A first mechanism is described where activation occurs between at least one primary system and at least one secondary system when a combination of the sensed motion characteristics achieves a threshold. A second mechanism is described where activation occurs between at least one primary system and at least one secondary system when at least one sensed motion characteristic achieves a threshold, the threshold being modified based on at least one further motion characteristic. A method of use of the above mechanisms is also described.

Abstract: A self-braking pulley is disclosed for controlling a rate of extraction of a tether wound upon the pulley. The pulley includes a spool for receiving a tether, the spool being arranged to rotate about an axle of the pulley as the tether is removed therefrom. The pulley further includes a braking assembly for applying a braking force to the spool and a drive assembly which is engagable with the spool via an engagement member. The engagement member is arranged to rotationally couple the spool with the drive assembly for driving the braking assembly, in dependence of a rate of rotation of the spool about the axle.

Abstract: A remote overhead anchor system for use at an elevated overhead position and adapted to be secured to a ring or similar anchor point includes a substantially U or C shaped hook with two ends, one of which is adapted to pass through the anchor point to secure the hook to the anchor point. A latch is pivotally connected adjacent the other end of the U and can move between a closed position wherein it engages the first end and an opened position wherein it is spaced therefrom and a spring biases the latch into the closed position. To prevent the latch from unintentionally opening, a lock mechanism is carried by the other end of the U shaped hook and engages the lever. A conically shaped receiver secured to the hook faces downwardly to receive the upper end of an elongated vertically extending pole.

Abstract: This disclosure describes embodiments of novel line dispensing devices and methods for dispensing and retracting a line of a line dispensing device.

Abstract: A fall arrest block has a drum (40) on which a lifeline is wound and from which the line can be drawn off or drawn back on, as the work man moves towards and away from the block. One end of the lifeline is permanently secured to the drum, and the drum has sockets (50) for securing ends of more than one different type of lifeline. The block also has a brake (24) in the form of a sealed unit which can be removed and replaced with a fresh unit, when servicing of the brake is required.

Abstract: A retractable lifeline assembly includes a housing having a first portion and a second portion separated by a plate portion having an aperture. The aperture places a first cavity of the first portion in fluid communication with a second cavity of the second portion. A shaft extends through the aperture into the first cavity and the second cavity, and a seal proximate the shaft and the plate portion seals the first cavity from the second cavity. The first portion contains a cable assembly and the second portion contains a brake assembly.

Abstract: A mechanism for use in an elevator governor assembly including a ground configured to rotate about a ground axis, three or more circumferentially overlapping cams each pivotally attached to the ground at one of three or more ground pivot points radially spaced from the ground axis, and a plurality of links pivotally attaching the three or more cams to one another at a plurality of link pivot points. The circumferentially overlapping cams form a substantially contiguous circular ring about the ground axis. The interconnection of the ground, the cams, and the links form a generally circular mechanism.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a descending device for repeated braked descent of a load from an elevated structure. The descending device comprises a housing attachable to the elevated structure; a descent shaft rotatably attached to the housing; a centrifugal brake comprising a fixed part connected to the housing and a rotatable part connected to the descent shaft; and a rope configured for attachment of the load at two different load attachment portions being separated by a descent length of the rope. The descent shaft is directly connected to the rotatable part of the centrifugal brake such that one revolution of the descent shaft translates to one revolution of the rotatable part of the centrifugal brake; and the winding angle is at least 360°.

Abstract: An eddy-current braking mechanism including a rotor, rotatable about a rotor axis; at least one electrically conductive member coupled to the rotor for rotation therewith; at least one magnet configured to apply a magnetic field extending at least partially orthogonal to the plane of rotation of the conductive member, and characterized in that upon rotation of the rotor, the conductive member is configured to move at least partially radially from the rotor axis into the applied magnetic field.

Abstract: A centrifugal clutch having a rotor and a clutch component, with at least one centrifugal weight movable in the radial direction relative to the rotor. When the rotational speed of the rotor is below a predefined value, the centrifugal weight is arranged in a first position and at a distance from the clutch component so that the rotor can freely rotate relative to the clutch component and, when the rotational speed of the rotor is above the predefined value, the centrifugal weight executes a radial movement relative to the rotor under a centripetal force into a second position so that the centrifugal weight bears against a clutch wall of the clutch component and establishes a mechanical force fit between the rotor and the clutch component.

Abstract: A fall arrest block 10 has a spindle on which a length of lifeline 14 is wound. In normal use, the lifeline (preferably webbing) retracts onto and extends from a drum housing 12, as the workman moves towards and away from a secure point to which the housing is attached. In the event of a fall, an inertia mechanism sensitive to acceleration of the spindle operates to lock a locking mechanism to hold the spindle against further rotation. An energy absorbing link 18 is built into the webbing, close to a hook 16 to which the workman is attached. The energy absorbing link 18 includes a section of lifeline that is stretchable, but non-elastic. The locking mechanism includes a toothed ratchet wheel that is engaged by a pawl in order to lock the spindle rotation. The toothed ratchet wheel is part of a unitary body with the spindle.

Abstract: In a rappelling device (10) for braking a load guided on a cable which can be fixed to the rappelling device (10), the cable (14) is friction-guided over a distance (22) and the cable (14) which runs through the rappelling device (10) is guided over a brakable shaft (24). The cable (14) is pressed onto the brakable shaft (24) by means of a pre-definable pressing force (29). The braking elements for the brakable shaft (24) can be kept small in weight and design because an additional braking of the cable (14) takes place over the friction-guided distance in the rappelling device (10).

Abstract: A safety apparatus (11) comprising a first housing (25) supporting a first spool (17) and a second spool (21) coaxially mounted and independently rotatable. The safety apparatus (11) also comprises a support line (29) extending from the first spool (17) to the second spool (21) via a second support assembly (27). The safety apparatus (11) also comprises a locking device (35) operably movable between a locked condition wherein the first spool (17) and second spool (21) are locked relative to each other and a released condition wherein the first spool (17) and second spool (21) may rotate independently. The locking device (11) is maintained in a locked condition, locking the first spool (17) relative to the second spool (21), when a load of predetermined value, such as the weight of a fallen operator, is exerted upon the support line (29).

Abstract: There is provided a height rescue apparatus (4) comprising a flexible load element (6) for attachment at end (6a) to a safety line (3). The other end is attached to a flexible elongate element (10) wound on a drum (8) which is part of a speed control means. A flexible harness element (7a) is attached to a bracket (11) and is connected to a harness (2) arrangement. The flexible load element (6) is releasably connected to the bracket (11) and is intended to take the fall loads associated with a user falling. After such a fall the load element is released to allow a controlled descent using the elongate element (10) and the speed control means.

Abstract: The invention presents devices for controlled descent from buildings. Such a device includes a housing having a primary spool about which a cord is wound, a payload coupler for attaching a harness assembly to the housing, and an unwind control assembly for controlling the rate of exit of the cord from the housing. An inventive device kit may include a convertible storage unit used to protectively store a device and which, upon deployment, may be used as a protective helmet. In using an inventive device, a user attaches the device to a fixture in a building, dons a harness and the converted helmet, attaches the device to the harness, and exits the building from a window or roof.

Abstract: A braking system for a self-retracting lifeline assembly is provided. The braking system includes a housing, a ratchet cam and a clutch assembly. The housing includes sidewalls that form, at least in part, a cavity. The sidewalls of the housing terminate in a connecting surface that extends around the cavity. The sidewalls have a plurality of notches spaced along interior surfaces of the sidewalls. Each notch extends from the connecting surface a select distance in the interior surfaces of the sidewalls of the housing. The ratchet cam includes an inner edge that defines a central cam opening. The inner edge of the ratchet cam has a plurality of inward extending teeth. The ratchet cam further has an outer edge. The outer edge has a plurality of outward extending fingers. Each finger terminates in a finger tip. Each finger tip is received in an associated notch in the interior surface of the housing.

Abstract: A personal escape device which can be used by men, women, and children, including physically disabled persons, to descend in a controlled and secure manner from high structures such as office buildings, multistory homes, and the like. The device is designed for a relatively low-cost, small size which may be used by payloads of variable weights. The rescue device of the invention may be a single-use device or a multi-use device.

Abstract: This disclosure describes embodiments of novel line dispensing devices and methods for dispensing and retracting a line of a line dispensing device.

Abstract: Herein are disclosed fall-protection safety devices comprising a load-bearing housing comprised of a composite polymeric material, and also comprising a load-bearing anchorage plate connected to the load-bearing housing by at least one load-bearing connector.

Abstract: Herein is disclosed a centrifugally-operated apparatus that comprises at least a shaft with an axis of rotation and a pawl that is coaxially mounted on the shaft with at least a portion of the pawl being movable radially inwardly and outwardly from the shaft. The axis of rotation of the shaft passes through the pawl, at a location that is radially offset from the center of mass of the pawl. Rotation of the shaft and pawl above a predetermined speed can cause at least the movable portion of the pawl to be moved radially outward from the shaft, in which position an engaging end of the movable portion of the pawl may engage with a component such as a ratchet.

Abstract: Apparatus for monitoring compliance with the 100% tied off rule for climbers using personal fall protection equipment. The personal fall protection monitoring system includes a remote monitoring module that monitors multiple harness systems. Each harness system includes sensors that detect the engagement of the lanyard with anchorage points and the harness. The system also includes a harness module that monitors the sensors and indicates an alarm condition to the climber and to the remote monitoring module. The harness module includes a transmitter that communicates with the remote monitoring module. The remote monitoring module communicates with multiple harness systems to indicate and log the status of each harness system.

Abstract: Herein is disclosed a centrifugally-operated apparatus that comprises at least a shaft with an axis of rotation and a pawl that is coaxially mounted on the shaft with at least a portion of the pawl being movable radially inwardly and outwardly from the shaft. The axis of rotation of the shaft passes through the pawl, at a location that is radially offset from the center of mass of the pawl. Rotation of the shaft and pawl above a predetermined speed can cause at least the movable portion of the pawl to be moved radially outward from the shaft, in which position an engaging end of the movable portion of the pawl may engage with a component such as a ratchet.

Abstract: Herein is disclosed a centrifugally-operated apparatus that comprises at least a shaft with an axis of rotation and a pawl that is coaxially mounted on the shaft with at least a portion of the pawl being movable radially inwardly and outwardly from the shaft. The axis of rotation of the shaft passes through the pawl, at a location that is radially offset from the center of mass of the pawl. Rotation of the shaft and pawl above a predetermined speed can cause at least the movable portion of the pawl to be moved radially outward from the shaft, in which position an engaging end of the movable portion of the pawl may engage with a component such as a ratchet.

Abstract: A self-rescue device includes a rope operatively connected to a lifeline connector. The lifeline connector is releasably operatively connected to a frame member of the self-rescue device, and should a fall occur, the user releases the lifeline connector from the frame member. A centrifugal braking mechanism controls the rate at which the rope is paid out, which controls the rate of the user's descent.

Abstract: A lifeline system includes a lifeline and a drum assembly around which the lifeline is coiled. The drum assembly is rotatable about a first axis in a first direction during extension of the lifeline and in a second direction, opposite of the first direction, during retraction of the lifeline. The lifeline system further includes a tensioning mechanism in operative connection with the drum assembly to impart a biasing force on the drum assembly to bias the drum assembly to rotate about the first axis in the second direction. The lifeline system further comprises a braking mechanism in operative connection with the drum assembly. The braking mechanism includes a catch that is rotatable relative to the drum assembly about a second axis that is not concentric with the first axis. The second axis is operatively connected to the first axis so that the second axis rotates about the first axis in the same direction as the drum assembly when the drum assembly is rotating about the first axis.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for safely lowering a user from a structure. The apparatus includes a frame; a spool including a cable rotatably mounted on the frame; a securing device attached to the cable and adapted to securely attached to the structure; a user support adapted to support the user and securely attached to the frame; and a pair of centrifugal hydraulic brake systems adapted to slow a rotation of the spool to cause the user support, spool and frame to descend at a safe rate for the user. In another embodiment, the apparatus includes a frame; a spool including a cable rotatably mounted on the frame; a securing device attached to the frame and adapted to securely attached to the structure; a user support adapted to support the user and attached to the cable; and a pair of centrifugal hydraulic brake systems adapted to slow a rotation of the spool to cause the user support to descend at a safe rate for the user.

Abstract: A centrifugal clutch having a rotor, a clutch component, and at least one centrifugal weight movable relative to the rotor. When the rotational speed of the rotor is below a predefined value, the centrifugal weight is in a first position and at a distance from the clutch component so that the rotor can rotate freely relative to the clutch component and, when the rotational speed of the rotor is above a predefined value, the centrifugal weight executes a movement relative to the rotor under a centripetal force into a second position so that the centrifugal weight produces a mechanical force fit between the rotor and the clutch component. The centrifugal weight has first toothing and the clutch component a second toothing so that the first toothing, above the predefined rotational speed, engages into the second toothing, establishing a form-locking connection between the rotor and the clutch component.

Abstract: A centrifugal clutch having a rotor and a clutch component, with at least one centrifugal weight movable in the radial direction relative to the rotor. When the rotational speed of the rotor is below a predefined value, the centrifugal weight is arranged in a first position and at a distance from the clutch component so that the rotor can freely rotate relative to the clutch component and, when the rotational speed of the rotor is above the predefined value, the centrifugal weight executes a radial movement relative to the rotor under a centripetal force into a second position so that the centrifugal weight bears against a clutch wall of the clutch component and establishes a mechanical force fit between the rotor and the clutch component.

Abstract: Herein are disclosed fall-protection safety devices comprising a load-bearing housing comprised of a composite polymeric material, and also comprising a load-bearing anchorage plate connected to the load-bearing housing by at least one load-bearing connector.

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.

Abstract: A self-retracting lifeline includes a common, central brake hub having teeth on opposing sides and a lifeline assembly on each side of the brake hub. The lifeline assemblies include centrifugal clutch assemblies with pawls. The pawls are configured and arranged to engage the teeth of the brake hub to stop the lifeline assemblies when there is a sudden acceleration or a high rate of speed at which the lifeline assemblies turn to pay-out lifeline which causes the pawls to pivot and engage the teeth. The self-retracting lifeline may be operatively connected to a safety harness with a connector interconnecting the bottom of the self-retracting lifeline and the straps of the safety harness proximate a dorsal pad assembly and straps interconnecting the housing of the self-retracting lifeline and the straps of the safety harness above the dorsal pad assembly. The lifelines of the self-retracting lifeline exit the housing proximate the top.

Abstract: A braking system for a self-retracting lifeline assembly is provided. The braking system includes a housing, a ratchet cam and a clutch assembly. The housing includes sidewalls that form, at least in part, a cavity. The sidewalls of the housing terminate in a connecting surface that extends around the cavity. The sidewalls have a plurality of notches spaced along interior surfaces of the sidewalls. Each notch extends from the connecting surface a select distance in the interior surfaces of the sidewalls of the housing. The ratchet cam includes an inner edge that defines a central cam opening. The inner edge of the ratchet cam has a plurality of inward extending teeth. The ratchet cam further has an outer edge. The outer edge has a plurality of outward extending fingers. Each finger terminates in a finger tip. Each finger tip is received in an associated notch in the interior surface of the housing.

Abstract: A personal, lightweight, high altitude rappel escape safety device is worn by an individual as a backpack and provides a safe means of lowering the individual from an elevated structure. The device comprises a structural body containing a mechanical device for slowly releasing a high strength cable. One end of the cable is secured to the structure prior to the user descending from the structure. The cable is released from a spool located inside the body and makes a circuitous path though a frictional structure. The structure contains baffles through which the cable extends. The friction caused by the pattern of release of the cable generates sufficient drag to safely lower a person from any altitude in a structure to the ground. The rate of descent may be adjusted via a braking mechanism.

Abstract: A self-retracting lanyard having a housing; a rotatable drum in that housing; a line for winding about that drum; and an improved braking mechanism for preventing the drum in that housing from ratcheting due to line rebounding after a fall arrest event. The braking mechanism has a plurality of pawl lockout elements for flexibly engaging with a stationary component of the lanyard to keep at least one pawl in a locked position during reverse rotation of the drum thereby preventing ratcheting from occurring.

Abstract: A retractable lanyard mechanism that includes a housing, a frame and a drum that is rotatably supported from the frame mounted within the housing. The drum includes a pair of spaced apart disks, the spaced apart disks being attached to opposite ends of a spool, each spaced apart disk having a perimeter including at least one sperrad.

Abstract: There is provided a height rescue apparatus (4) comprising a flexible load element (6) for attachment at end (6a) to a safety line (3). The other end is attached to a flexible elongate element (10) wound on a drum (8) which is part of a speed control means. A flexible harness element (7a) is attached to a bracket (11) and is connected to a harness (2) arrangement. The flexible load element (6) is releasably connected to the bracket (11) and is intended to take the fall loads associated with a user falling. After such a fall the load element is released to allow a controlled descent using the elongate element (10) and the speed control means.

Abstract: A safety device for use in a fall arrest system, has a safety line drum mounted for rotation and a speed responsive engagement mechanism responsive to the speed of rotation of the drum, which is activated above a predetermined rotational speed of the drum to deploy an energy absorber. A rotational transmission member (which may be in the form of a shaft) is coupled, via the speed responsive engagement mechanism, when activated, to rotate with the drum. The energy absorber is deployed in response to operation of the rotational transmission member. The speed responsive engagement mechanism may be mounted intermediate the drum and the energy absorber for ease of replacement.

Abstract: A safety device with fall arrest and descending modes includes a housing, a drum, a lifeline, first and second brake assemblies, and a control. The drum is rotatably operatively connected to the housing. The lifeline has an intermediate portion interconnecting a first end and a second end. The first end is operatively connected to the drum. The first and second assemblies are operatively connected to the drum. The control is operatively connected to the first and second brake assemblies and has a first position and a second position. The first position selectively engages the first brake assembly in a descending mode and the second position selectively engages the second brake assembly in a fall arrest mode.

Abstract: There is disclosed herein a descent device (10) comprising a hollow spool (12) rotatable about a rotational axis (14) and a lifeline, in the form of a braided steel cable (not shown), wound about the spool (12). A centrifugal brake mechanism (18) including a brake assembly, comprising a pair of brake shoes (20) and associated brake pads (21), is engageable with the spool (12) to apply a braking force to the spool (12) as the spool (12) rotates. Biasing members, in the form of a compression springs (22), extend between the brake shoes (20) for biasing the brake shoes (20) and pads (21) into engagement with the spool (12).

Abstract: A personal escape device which can be used by men, women, and children, including physically disabled persons, to descend in a controlled and secure manner from high structures such as office buildings, multistory homes, and the like. The device is designed for a relatively low-cost, small size which may be used by payloads of variable weights. The rescue device of the invention may be a single-use device or a multi-use device.

Abstract: An escape device (10) including a cable (18), a rotatable cable dispensing assembly (22) from which the cable (18) is dispensed under load, a braking mechanism (28) operatively connected to the rotatable cable dispensing assembly (22), whereby a braking response of the braking mechanism (18) is proportional to the rate at which cable (18) is dispensed from the rotatable cable dispensing assembly (22).

Abstract: A safety apparatus (11) comprising a first housing (25) supporting a first spool (17) and a second spool (21) coaxially mounted and independently rotatable. The safety apparatus (11) also comprises a support line (29) extending from the first spool (17) to the second spool (21) via a second support assembly (27). The safety apparatus (11) also comprises a locking device (35) operably movable between a locked condition wherein the first spool (17) and second spool (21) are locked relative to each other and a released condition wherein the first spool (17) and second spool (21) may rotate independently. The locking device (11) is maintained in a locked condition, locking the first spool (17) relative to the second spool (21), when a load of predetermined value, such as the weight of a fallen operator, is exerted upon the support line (29).

Abstract: A rappelling apparatus providing controlled constant speed to a cable unwinding from a rotating spool in frictional engagement with a stationary arcuate surface. Rotations of the spool are responded to by a centrifugal brake acting in inverse proportion to the rotations. An addition brake is provided for selective actuation by a person using the apparatus.

Abstract: A fall arrest device used with a fixed safety rope comprises a support arm articulated on a first spindle of the body, a roller in the form of a cylindrical wheel mounted rotating free on a second spindle securedly attached to the support arm, and a centrifugal coupling arranged between a drive member of the roller and the support arm so as to occupy a disengaged position or an engaged position. The centrifugal coupling comprises at least one flyweight movable along a ramp of the drive member against a compression spring, and a connecting interface engaged inside a cylindrical rim of the support arm to transmit the elastic force of the spring to the flyweight.