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: An escape system for a building, including a belting ladder formed by an endless band of a flat flexible reinforced belting material with a plurality of longitudinally-spaced apertures each with a substantially transverse edge portion forming rung-like features therealong for human engagement, and a control apparatus having (a) a support structure mountable to the building, the support structure having a central shaft and a rotatable pulley member secured thereto with the endless band therearound, (b) a speed limiter mounted with respect to the main shaft for restraining rotation of the pulley member during human descent by belt movement, and (c) a winder device adjacent to the pulley member and having at least one winder rod engageable with the belt and orbitable with an engaged portion thereof about the pulley member.

Abstract: Disclosed is a climbing safety device in a tower crane including a vertical ladder enabling an operator to move to an overhead operator cab, and a wire rope for ensuring a safety of the operator. The climbing safety device includes a wire rope winding unit for winding or unwinding a wire rope. The wire rope has a ladder structure while being provided, at each side thereof, with engagement balls vertically spaced apart from one another. The climbing safety device also includes a safety unit for guiding a movement of the wire rope while controlling a sudden unwinding of the wire rope. The safety unit includes a sensor for sensing the sudden unwinding of the wire rope.

Abstract: A device for lowering a person from a building by dispensing a cable that is anchored on one end to the building. The cable is played out of the device by unwinding the cable from a spool. In one embodiment, the spool rotates on a shaft that has a planetary gear linkage on one end and a centrifugal brake on the opposite end of the shaft. In a manual embodiment a dual disc brake is adapted to engage the ends of the spool for controlling the rate at which the cable is unwound from the spool. In both embodiments the brake is spring biased into engagement to prevent unwinding the cable when no load is placed on the device.

Abstract: A ladderless safety escape device includes a cable drum upon which a cable is wound having means secured to the free end thereof for the support of a person. A braking mechanism is operatively connected to the cable drum for controlling the rate of descent of the person. A brake control mechanism is provided for operatively disconnecting the brake mechanism from the cable drum during rewinding of the cable and insures operative connection of the brake mechanism and cable drum during unwinding of the cable.

Abstract: A portable descent mechanism is disclosed which allows the use of a conventional window as an avenue of escape in emergency situations such as fires and comprising a passenger chair, spools with cable wound thereon, a brake, and window attachment apparatus designed for simple engagement with a conventional windowsill and utilizes a pair of hooks that fit over the windowsill.