Abstract: The present invention provides a fall arrest device comprising a bracket having a first engagement element and a second engagement element aligned with the first engagement element; a cantilever element; and a deformable element that is dimensioned for plastic shock absorbing deformation or fracture on application of a predetermined load at the load application point.

Abstract: An automatically braking belay device for use in belaying climber or descending with a rope, using the pull of the rope to activate braking by the roll of the cam within the frame of the device. An adaptive release lever unjam the rope to release with closing mechanism utilizing magnets for practically permanent and fail safe closure.

Abstract: A locking system is provided for fall protection. The locking system includes a housing. The housing defines a guide path through which the housing is slideably attached to a guide member. The locking system also includes a braking lever having a braking surface and an attachment end. The braking lever is configured to rotate so as to allow a braking surface to engage the guide member. The locking system further include a locking lever that is rotatably coupled to the braking lever. The locking lever is rotatable such that it rotates from an unlocked position to a locked position. In the unlocked position an activation end of the locking lever is positioned in a first location that is proximate to the attachment end and in the locked position the activation end is positioned in a second position distant to the attachment end.

Abstract: A quickdraw for sport climbing includes two carabiners held together by a connecting element having a central region which ends in a loop for the carabiners at each of the two end regions. This connecting element is provided with at least one sensor in the central region between the loops or near to one of the loops. As a result of a minimal movement or touch of the quickdraw, the at least one sensor, triggered by use of the quickdraw, emits an electronic signal which is received by a base station communicating with a smartphone and/or a computer so that the signal can be processed, stored and compared with previously stored signals in order to show or graphically represent the corresponding values resulting therefrom on the display.

Abstract: A backpack body has an openable accommodation chamber having a top opening. The accommodation chamber utilizes a restricting structure to position an energy absorption band. The energy absorption band includes a first layer and a second layer that are coincidingly bound. The top ends of the first and second layers extend first and second connecting portions respectively. The first and second connecting portions divergently protrude from the backpack body via the opening. The first connecting portion is configured for coupling with a safety harness, while the second connecting portion is for coupling with an anti-falling device. When the user falls, the falling makes the restricting structure release the first and second layers, so that the first and second layers leave the accommodation chamber via the opening for anti-falling suspension. Accordingly, the present invention has real improvements, including fine appearance, economic efficiency, and etc.

Abstract: A fall protection system having a top bracket assembly that is mountable to a top portion of the ladder, a spaced bottom bracket assembly that is mountable to a bottom portion of the ladder, and a cable extending therebetween portions of the top bracket assembly and the bottom bracket assembly substantially parallel to a plane bisecting the vertical ladder at a desired distance from the plane.

Abstract: A toothbrush including bristles extended from one end of the toothbrush, a handle extended from another end of the toothbrush opposite the one end, and any of an attachment hole, arranged between the bristles and handle and configured to receive a support leg to be attached therein, and a groove are provided, either of which may improve drying and therefore decrease in transmission of pathogens via the bristles by, for example, improving air circulation to the bristles raised away from a surface via action of the end and the surface.

Abstract: A clutch assembly for a climbing rope including a tether component pivotally supporting a plate, the plate in turn supporting a pair of pivotal clutch members defining a first pinch point of the rope. A carabiner pivotally attachable to the tether component through an aligning support aperture in the plate. A lever is pivotally attached to the tether component and slidably attached to the plate which permits at least one of sliding displacement or pivoting of the plate relative to the tether component to establish each of a sliding configuration of the rope relative to the clutch members during either of a normal ascent or normal descent condition, as well as a locked configuration of the clutch members against the rope to establish a free-fall preventing condition.

Abstract: A self-retracting lanyard system includes a self-retracting lanyard having a main body and a retractable line, a harness connected to the retractable line and wearable by the user of the self-retracting lanyard, and an electronic device disposable on the harness. The electronic device includes an accelerometer, a processor or programmable circuit, and a non-transitory program storage medium on which are stored instructions executable by the processor or programmable circuit to perform operations including receiving a measurement from the accelerometer, comparing the measurement to a threshold, detecting that the user of the self-retracting lanyard has fallen based on a result of the comparing, and instructing a wireless transmitter to transmit a wireless signal in response to the detection that the user has fallen.

Abstract: A fall-protection apparatus with a friction-braking system comprising a handle that is disconnectably connected to a braking cam so that when the handle is moved from a braking position to a non-braking position the braking cam is pivotally moved from a braking configuration to a non-braking configuration, and so that when the handle is moved to a disconnecting position the connection between the handle and the braking cam is disconnected.

Abstract: A top bracket for supporting a safety cable of a vertical climbing fall protection system, the bracket including a base plate and a pivotally deflectable plate that is integrally and pivotally connected to the base plate by a neck. The top bracket may also include an abutment plate with a forward abutment surface that is separated from a rearward abutment surface of the pivotally deflectable plate by an elongate gap.

Abstract: An interlocking abrasion-protection tool for linemen fall-prevention systems has multiple belay-assistance links which are formed into a chain. The belay-assistance links act as an abrasion-protection sheath for a section of rope that runs over a sharp edge. The belay-assistance links enable a user to lower a lineman who is incapacitated or stuck without endangering other linemen or damaging the linemen-support ropes. To accomplish this, each belay-assistance link has a pair of interlocking mechanisms and multiple rigging channels. The interlocking mechanisms are positioned on opposite sides of the belay-assistance link so that multiple links can be connected in series. The rigging channels traverse through the belay-assistance device to form a raceway for the linemen-protection ropes. The rigging channels prevent the linemen-protection rope from becoming tangled while supporting a lineman.

Abstract: A fall restriction device is provided that includes a rope and a connector that has a rope connector base. A latch is retained by the rope connector base. The connector has a rope connector with an aperture and the rope is disposed through the aperture. The rope connector has an engaged position in which the rope connector is retained to the rope connector base. The rope connector is moved from the engaged position by being moved along the rope connector base and by being rotated relative to the rope connector base.

Abstract: A belay device may include a front plate with a first lobe and a back plate with a second lobe. The belay device may be engageable and disengageable such that the first lobe is separated from the second lobe at a first distance and a second distance, respectively. The belay device may maintain ability to operate when the belay device is disengaged. The belay device may include a handle and cam pin that cooperate to create a mechanical advantage for controlling separation distance between the first and second lobe. The handle may prevent rotation in a first direction via a lockout protrusion. The handle may prevent rotation in a second direction via a handle stop and/or a retaining rib. The belay device may include an ergonomic feature to accommodate a user's hand placement and/or shroud rotation of the front plate.

Abstract: Systems and methods according to one or more embodiments are provided for a variable length self-locking lifeline system that prevents a user from falling off an elevated surface. In one example, a variable length self-locking lifeline system includes a processor and a lanyard. The lanyard is coupled between an anchor point and a user. One or more sensors determine, in real time, a current length and orientation of the lanyard as the lanyard responds to a user moving on an elevated surface. The processor is configured to trigger a locking mechanism to selectively lock the lanyard from further extension when a determined current length and current orientation exceeds a predefined safety perimeter of the elevated surface.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for suspending a load on a suspension rope, including a body (3) provided with a means (19, 20) for hanging the load, with a stationary member (6) and with a pivotable rocker arm member (7), between which the rope (2) passes, which are capable of immobilizing the body along the rope (2) when said body tilts in a direction determined by the load. Said body is also provided with a stationary abutment (22) and with a pivotal unlocking lever (14) capable of controlling the pivotal rocker arm member (7) such as to make the latter pivot until said abutment (22) and to cause said body (3) to tilt in the opposite direction when the rocker arm member (7) is bearing against said abutment (22).

Abstract: A brake bar assembly having a U-shaped frame, a sliding friction bar positioned on the U-shaped frame near a closed end of the frame, a fixed friction bar attached to an open end of the U-shaped frame, and a lockable center bar assembly positioned on the U-shaped frame between the sliding friction bar and the fixed friction bar having a spring operated locking mechanism which allows the center bar to be releasably pivoted on the frame.

Abstract: A fall arrest device for securing a climber to a cable in a manner that prevents the climber from falling. The device can run along an elongate securing cable as the climber ascends and descends during use. The device has a base body having a guide element and a receiving body having longitudinal axis designed to receive the cable therebetween, a housing fastened movably on the base body, and a securing element having a first securing bolt. The securing element is fastened rotatably on the base body and the housing in order to clamp the cable against the receiving body to arrest the climber during a fall.

Abstract: An emergency descender device preferably includes a base plate, a cover plate, a feed handle, a lock lever, a rope pulley, a release link and at least one spacer. The rope pulley is pivotally retained between the cover and base plates. The feed handle is preferably pivotally retained on the base plate. The lock lever pivots relative to the feed handle. A lock pin is pressed into the lock lever. A portion of the lock pin engages a perimeter of the cover plate to place the emergency descender device in either a lock position or a release position. The rope pulley grips an anchor rope against the at least one spacer in a locked position. One end of the release link is pivotally engaged with the rope pulley and an opposing end of the release link is pivotally engaged with the feed handle.

Abstract: An energy absorber assembly for use with a safety harness comprises a connector, a bracket assembly, a fastener, and an energy absorber. The connector is configured and arranged to operatively connect to the safety harness. The fastener operatively connects the bracket assembly and the connector, and the fastener releases the bracket assembly from the connector when subjected to a predetermined load. The energy absorber operatively connects the bracket assembly and the connector, and the energy absorber includes a first portion and a second portion that separate to absorb shock after the bracket assembly is released from the connector.

Abstract: A rope control device a main body defining a central opening and first and second side portions, projections extending from the main body, an end recess defined by the first and second projections, an end friction surface formed at a juncture of a projection and the main body, and a bar. With the bar in a first position, the first rope portion is extended through the central opening and at least partly around the bar. With the bar in a second position, the main body and the bar define first and second opening portions of the central opening and the first rope portion is extended through the first and second opening portions and at least partly around the bar. The second rope portion is arranged within the first end recess such that, when the rope is under tension, the second rope portion frictionally engages the first end friction surface.

Abstract: The invention relates to a carabiner including a metal body, and a gate rotatably assembled to a first end of the metal body between a closed position and an open position of the carabiner, the gate being in contact with a second end of the metal body when the carabiner is in closed position. The carabiner is provided with a separation bar fastened to the metal body and configured to define two distinct confinement areas. The bar is assembled by clipping onto the metal body at first and second opposite ends of the bar, the first end comprising a first fastener totally surrounding the metal body, and the second end comprising a second fastener totally surrounding the metal body. The separation bar being configured to authorize the opening of the gate when the first and second fasteners surround the metal body.

Abstract: A rappelling-ascending apparatus for rock-climbing and industrial alpinism comprises an all-metal body defined by a front, a rear, and two lateral sides, a clamping element, and a handle. The body is made with a widening in its lower portion and two cuts along the lateral sides, the first being lengthwise the widening, the second being lengthwise the side and forming flanges. The handle is spring-biased and rotatably mounted on an axis between the front and rear sides. It comprises a two-prong friction fork on one side thereof relative to the axis, the friction fork being located on the side of the first cut. There is a ring on the opposite side of the handle and on the side of the second cut. The clamping element is mounted on the handle facing depressions in the flanges and adapted to hold a rope passing along the flanges when pressed against the rope.

Abstract: A retarding device is used to retard movement of a cord of a window shade. The retarding device includes a support frame and a retarding unit. The support frame includes a base part having a base slot formed therethrough, and a side plate disposed at one side of the base part and having a securing portion formed therethrough. The retarding unit includes a cord retarding module, and a rod member disposed at the base slot. The cord retarding module has a mounting seat secured to the securing portion, and a retarding shaft rotatably supported on the mounting seat. The rod member and the retarding shaft are parallel to each other and extend in a longitudinal direction.

Abstract: A tractor has a front bonnet which houses an engine and a cooling arrangement, the cooling arrangement having a fan, a radiator, and a mounting plate. The bonnet has a hood and two opposing side parts. A grill is positioned at the front of the bonnet through which air passes and enters the cooling arrangement. An extended fan shroud has a lower part which extends from the bottom half of a fan ring in a forward direction and an upper part which extends rearwards from the upper half of the fan ring towards the radiator over the mounting plate. A flange extends from the lower part of the fan shroud diagonally along opposing sides of the upper part and across the upper part of the fan shroud. The flange has a sealing member. When the bonnet is closed and in contact with the sealing member, two air compartments are defined.

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 use the etrier to relieve tension in an upper portion of the lanyard and thereby disconnect the lanyard from the user while suspended.

Abstract: A rope grab for a vertical fall protection system is provided. The rope grab includes a housing with an elongated member passage. The elongated member passage is configured to receive an elongated member. A locking cam is pivotally coupled to the housing and selectively engages an elongated member received in the elongated member passage. A cam spring is coupled between the housing and the locking cam to provide a relatively slight biasing force on the locking cam in a direction towards an elongated member received in the elongated member passage. A locking arm, pivotally coupled to the housing, has a first end that is configured to be coupled to a safety harness of a user and a second end that selectively engages the locking cam to lock the locking cam on an elongated member in the elongated member passage during a fall event.

Abstract: A rope-climbing device has an upper assembly with planar side plates spaced apart by a roller, such that the side plates rotate relative to one another about a roller axis, a spine unit comprising planar links of common width each of half the plate spacing, the links pivoted at a central point, and a lower assembly comprising third and fourth side plates spaced apart by a clamp element such that the third and fourth side plates are enabled to rotate relative to one another about the clamp axis, and the clamp element is enabled to clamp a rope between the plates. The device may be opened by aligning pivot points, a rope inserted, and closed on the rope. Engaged on the rope, the device may be set to slide on the rope, or clamp to the rope by action of a user.

Abstract: Ascender for ascending on a rope, comprising a U-shaped clamp equipped with two lateral wings delineating an internal space for passage of the rope, and with an arresting surface with spikes against which the rope is blocked in case of a fall. The two wings are provided with two openings arranged facing one another and each having an edge in the form of an inclined ramp performing guiding of a karabiner passing through the two openings. The clamp comprises a mobile control part biased by a spring to an active actuation position of the karabiner along the ramp for the rope to come into contact against the arresting surface with spikes, so as to obtain a first ready-to-block state when ascending on the rope, and a second blocking state of the clamp on the rope in the event of a fall.

Abstract: In one example, a tie-down apparatus can include a tie-down device and a housing adapted to receive the tie-down device. The tie-down apparatus can be transitionable between a stowed state and a deployed state. In the stowed state, the tie-down device can be stored entirely within the housing. The stowed state can be convenient for storing the tie-down device when not in use. In the deployed state, certain portions of the tie down device can be concealed within the housing while other portions of the tie-down device (e.g. attachment mechanisms) are deployed through openings in the housing. The deployed state can be convenient for securing cargo without damaging (e.g. scratching or denting) the cargo.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of an expedition cart are provided. The expedition cart includes a chassis configured and dimensioned to support a load. The expedition cart includes a first gusset plate and a second gusset plate secured to the chassis. The expedition cart further includes a first sleeve mounted to the first gusset plate and a second sleeve mounted to the second gusset plate. The first sleeve can be configured and dimensioned to releasably receive therein at least a portion of a first shaft arm. The second sleeve can be configured and dimensioned to releasably receive therein at least a portion of a second shaft arm. Exemplary expedition cart systems and methods of assembling an expedition cart are also provided.

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 use the etrier to relieve tension in an upper portion of the lanyard and thereby disconnect the lanyard from the user while suspended.

Abstract: A safety apparatus on a rope, including a first flange-plate, an operable second flange-plate, and a mechanical indicator collaborating when the swiveling movement takes place with both the first pivot-pin and a latch to indicate that the second flange-plate is in the closed and latched position, or in an unlatched ready-to-open state.

Abstract: A positioning device for a window covering includes a base, two clamping members, and an operating member. The base has a main recess and a cord bore, and the cord bore is communicated with main recess, and a cord is inserted into the cord bore and passes through the main recess. The clamping members are movably received in the main recess of the base, and the cord passes through a space between the clamping members. The operating member is connected to the base for rotation to drive the clamping members to move. While the operating member is turned, the clamping members will be moved toward each other to clamp the cord.

Abstract: A fall arrest safety apparatus with blocking on a rope, comprising: a rigid body provided with a trunking for housing the rope, a securing system designed to swivel between a closed position to collaborate with the rope by blocking the latter at the bottom of the trunking in case of a fall, and an open position releasing access to the trunking for fitting or removal of the rope, and a control device to move said securing system from the closed position to the open position, and vice-versa, wherein the control device comprises a pair of gripping cleats able to be actuated simultaneously to stabilize and lock the securing system in the open position, the two gripping cleats being arranged side by side on a transverse pivot-pin integral to the pivoting securing system.

Abstract: An energy absorber assembly for use with a safety harness comprises a connector, a bracket assembly, a fastener, and an energy absorber. The connector is configured and arranged to operatively connect to the safety harness. The fastener operatively connects the bracket assembly and the connector, and the fastener releases the bracket assembly from the connector when subjected to a predetermined load. The energy absorber operatively connects the bracket assembly and the connector, and the energy absorber includes a first portion and a second portion that separate to absorb shock after the bracket assembly is released from the connector.

Abstract: A device for ascending or descending using the single rope technique. The device includes a clamping mechanism that has a plurality of clamping segments interconnected by a flexible spine arrangement. A release mechanism is coupled to the clamping mechanism. A reduction mechanism is coupled to the release mechanism. The reduction mechanism includes a body portion having a rope slot configured to accommodate the single rope and a housing portion disposed over the body portion. The housing portion includes a cammed groove configured to accommodate the single rope. The cammed groove is rotatably aligned with the rope slot. The reduction mechanism is movable with at least two degrees of freedom between the clamping position and the released position. The reduction mechanism is configured to frictionally engage the single rope in the released position.

Abstract: A fall arrester (10) including a body (20), a pawl (18) mounted to the body (20) for movement between a disengaged position and an engaging position wherein the pawl (18) engages a catching stop (16) in a guide rail (12), a first connecting element (41) operably connected to the pawl (18), and a second connecting element (60) operably connected to the pawl (18), wherein the pawl (18) is configured to move from the disengaged position to the engaged position in response to a first predetermined force applied to the first connecting element (41) in a first direction and to move from the disengaged position to the engaged position in response to a second predetermined force applied to the second connecting element (60) in a second direction that is different than the first direction.

Abstract: A securing device includes a base body having a guide element, a receiving body, which has a longitudinal axis, a housing, which is fastened movably on the base body and a securing element having a first securing bolt. The receiving body is disposed on the base body so that the securing means can be guided between the receiving body and the guide element. The securing element is fastened rotatably about a first axis of rotation on the base body. A securing bolt is coupled to the housing such that during a movement of the housing relative to the base body, the securing element rotates about the first axis of rotation so that as a result of a first rotation, one end of the securing element is movable in the direction of the receiving body so that the securing means can be clamped between the receiving body and the securing element.

Abstract: A load balancing descending device for controlling the descent of a user descending on a rope carrying a load is provided. The rope has a decreasing rope free end as the user descends. The load balancing descending device comprises a first plate and a second plate. A first pin is positioned between the first plate and the second plate with the first pin spacing the first plate from and pivotally connecting the first plate to the second plate and the combined first plate and second plate having a first side and a second side. A second pin is positioned between the first plate and the second plate with the second pin spaced from the first pin. An attachment mechanism is formed in the first side of the combined first plate and second plate for attaching a user and/or load. The rope is wrapped in a serpentine manner about the first pin and the second pin between the first plate and the second plate with the rope free end exiting the combined first plate and second plate from the second side.

Abstract: A descent control device for controlling rotational motion of an object includes: at least one drive assembly for rotationally engaging the rotating object; a first substantially planar ferromagnetic moving element in rotationally locked engagement with at least one drive assembly and comprising at least one recess formed in a surface thereof having at least one magnet fixedly disposed therein; a second substantially planar ferromagnetic moving element in rotationally locked engagement with at least one drive assembly, and comprising at least one recess formed in a surface thereof having at least one magnet fixedly disposed therein; and at least one conducting plate disposed proximate the first and second moving elements. A magnetic field may be induced by rotational movement of the first or second moving element relative to at least one conducting plate in a direction to oppose acceleration of at least one drive assembly as it rotationally engages the object.

Abstract: A fall detection device for a lifeline, intended to be mounted on an energy absorber which includes a static portion and a mobile portion secured together, wherein the mobile portion is shifted in the event of a force higher than a force threshold value and actuates an absorber. The fall detection device includes a sensor and trajectory tracking device secured to the end of the static portion or to the end of the mobile portion and able freely to move with the end of the mobile portion or the end of the static portion respectively. This trajectory tracking device is adapted to actuate the sensor when shifting of the mobile portion is data-generating.

Abstract: A rappelling apparatus and method are provided, for controlling the rate of movement of a person along a safety line away from an anchored end of the safety line, through use of a control bar having an attachment at one end thereof for a harness safety belt, or the like connected to the person, an operating handle at an opposite end thereof, and provisions between the opposite ends of the control bar for passage of the safety line through the control bar in serpentine pattern. The operating handle is pivoted away from the safety line to reduce the severity of the serpentine pattern and allow controlled movement of the safety line through the control bar. Some forms of the control bar include a one-way clutching arrangement. Some forms of the control bar also include a hand-actuated braking arrangement.

Abstract: A full body emergency descent system (EDS) for incorporating into the coat and pants of a firefighter for allowing for safe escape from elevated heights. The EDS includes: a panel housing flame resistant rope or cable into the coat with a pair of chest straps that store away until needed and fasten together when needed; a pair of leg straps incorporated into the pants, said leg straps connecting to said chest straps through pocket accesses to form a full body harness. The EDS further includes a purposefully designed control descent rack in and through which the rope/cable is wound and a friction braking handle. Preferred embodiments further incorporate a drag strap loop.

Abstract: A fall restraint system having a retractor assembly including a housing assembly that is mounted onto an aerial apparatus. A base pulley assembly is also mounted onto the aerial apparatus. A cable having first and second ends is partially stored within the housing assembly, whereby the first end is fixed within the housing assembly. The second end is threaded around the base pulley assembly and is also fixed onto the aerial apparatus. Tensioning means keep a predetermined tension on the cable while the aerial apparatus extends from a retracted position to an extended position and vice-versa.

Abstract: A shuttle member for a horizontal lifeline system having at least one elongate line attached between at least two anchorage points. The shuttle member includes: a body having: (i) an upper portion configured for attachment to the line by at least partially surrounding the line; (i) an intermediate portion that, together with the upper portion, defines at least one passage slit that is sized such that the elongate line cannot pass therethrough; and (iii) an attachment portion configured for attachment of at least a portion of a lanyard. A shuttle member arrangement and a passing method are also disclosed.

Abstract: A descent device according to embodiments of the present invention includes a housing; an inlet capstan; a drive wheel coupled to a centrifugal brake, the drive wheel rotatable with respect to the housing about an axis, the drive wheel including a groove formed along its outer perimeter, the groove having a first inner side wall, a second inner side wall, and a bottom, a distance between the first and second inner side walls decreases from the outer perimeter to the bottom in a direction toward the axis, wherein at least a portion of a radial extent of the inner side walls includes a pattern of protrusions positioned between inner side walls to form an irregular rope path along the groove; an outlet capstan; and a rope extending through the rope inlet, around the inlet capstan, around the drive wheel, around the outlet capstan, and through the rope outlet.

Abstract: A rope climbing apparatus includes two spaced side members. Each side member has a climbing rope end and a tethering end. The climbing rope ends each include a pair of spaced apertures. The tethering ends each include a cooperative aperture. Two friction elements are disposed between the spaced side members. The friction elements are axially disposed between the pair of spaced apertures in the climbing rope end for receiving a rope therebetween the friction elements. A tether connector is axially disposed between the cooperative apertures in the tethering end for connecting a tether thereto. The climbing apparatus is useable as a brake while descending a rope through angular movement of the tethering end relative to the rope.

Abstract: A rope descent device and method capable of maintaining a fast but safe descent rate of a user carrying a heavy load or equipment.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention relates to an assisted braking belay system with a housing, camming mechanism, and clutch mechanism. The housing may include a substantially enclosed rope channel through which a rope may extend to the climber. The camming mechanism is moveably coupled to the housing and configured to automatically engage a camming surface upon the rope across the rope channel if the rope translates through the channel at a particular acceleration rate. The clutch mechanism may function as a secondary locking mechanism to engage the camming surface of the camming mechanism upon the rope across the rope channel.