Abstract: A connection assembly for a modular footbridge having two or more bridge segments, the connection assembly comprising a first connector member and a second connector member, wherein one segment of the modular footbridge is provided with the first connector member and is connectable to another adjacently disposed segment having the second connector member by connecting the first connector member to the second connector member.

Abstract: An apparatus for supporting a ladder in inclined position without the necessity for engaging a separate support surface comprises an X-shaped support frame defined by a pair of posts crossing at a junction and interconnected by a beam at a position below the junction to hold the posts in the X-shape. At the top of each post is provided a U bracket which engages underneath a rung of the ladder. A cable passes between the beam and a selected rung of the ladder to hold the triangle against spreading. A second cable extends from the junction of the X frame to the rung carried in the U brackets at the top of the posts.

Abstract: It has been necessary up to now for connecting two ladder elements in order to construct a free-standing ladder to connect the lower ends of the ladder elements by means of a tie rod. Furthermore a reliable connection only in the area of the upper ends of the ladder elements is not possible because of the danger of damaging the sidepieces. These disadvantages are supposed to be avoided with the invention. The invention provides, that the clamping elements of a connecting element fastened on a first sidepiece are constructed like a flat contact plate inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis of the first sidepiece and connected to the connecting element and like a swivel plate pivotal about an axis arranged perpendicularly with respect to the longitudinal axis of the first sidepiece. The connecting element of the invention can be used in all types of multi-purpose ladders.

Abstract: The invention is an improved device for transporting loads between various elevations. Such loads may be handicapped persons in wheelchairs, wheeled truck loads of freight or materials, wheeled people carriers, or other similar loads that require transport from one elevation to another, either ascending or descending. The improved device serves a double mission as a regular stairway facility for ambulatory persons, and as a ramp-type facility for wheeled vehicles carrying a person, or persons, or a load of freight or materials, and other such loads as may require movement from one elevation to another elevation.