Abstract: A gripping device is provided for use with vertical or near vertical timbers on building sites, especially with 2".times.4", 2".times.6", or 2".times.8" planks, and which allows such timbers to be used with a series of the devices forming steps of a temporary ladder. The timber may be leaning against a surface, or may be part of a scaffold or studs of a house. The device may be formed of a single piece of rod, or as a casting. It has a closed loop part suitable for use as a step, and also has a retaining part, the retaining part and loop having parallel portions defining an open sided recess for receiving the timber. At least one of the parallel portions has a set of teeth facing the other parallel portion, such that the device can be slid sideways on to a timber and can be pivoted down to cause the teeth to engage the timber and prevent further movement of the device.

Abstract: A portable tree stand is provided for use by a person to climb to and descend from an elevated position next to an upright object. The stand comprises a pole, a clamping assembly attached to the pole near its top end for securing the pole to the upright object, a device on the bottom end of the pole for anchoring it to the ground and upper and lower foot supports for use by the person to climb and descend the pole. Each foot support is slidably mounted on the pole but has a friction device that locks the foot support in a fixed position on the pole in response to a downwardly applied force.

Abstract: A hand climber is disclosed which aids a person in scaling a tree without damage to the tree. The hand climber includes a chain for extending around the tree, a top anchor for securing the chain around the tree and a body anchor for securing the hand climber to the tree. Attached at one side to the body anchor is a fold out handle use by a climber to grip the device. Sets of teeth are attached to the opposite side of the body anchor to secure the device to the tree.

Abstract: A portable, rectangularly shaped tree seat for hunters and outdoorsmen that may be used to sit between the two trunks of a double trunk tree. The tree seat may then be secured in its elevated position by straps that encompass each trunk. To utilize the tree seat while on the ground, the device may be leaned against a tree trunk and secured to the trunk with a strap. The seat area may then be pivotably released from stowage to form a resting area for objects or a seating area for a user.

Abstract: A pouch member is arranged to include a plurality of pockets therewithin, with each of the pockets having a climbing step member therewithin. Each step member having foldable first and second legs displaced to an orthogonal orientation relative to one another for permitting securement within a tree, as each first leg includes a spike member arranged for projection into an associated tree for a climbing procedure.

Abstract: A step adapted to be screwed into a tree or post having an exposed threaded segment and a body segment, wherein a lag bolt is securely molded into the body member, the body member preferably comprising a strong plastic, and having certain advantages over existing similar devices due to various aspects of its construction, is described.

Abstract: A portable, tree mounted seat assembly includes a substantially rigid mounting bar embedded into a tree, a substantially rigid seat supporting frame removably secured to the mounting bar, and a seat mounted to swivel on the seat supporting frame. The mounting bar includes two 90 degree bends to form an anchoring segment embedded into the tree, a vertical medial segment and a horizontal handle segment. An elongate receiving sleeve is fixed to the medial segment, vertically disposed, and open at least at the top to receive an elongate coupling sleeve of the supporting frame for a nesting engagement with the receiving sleeve. The handle segment underlies the receiving sleeve, to support the coupling sleeve by gravity when the coupling sleeve is nested within the receiving sleeve. A seat is pivotally mounted to a distal region of the supporting frame.

Abstract: A retrofit, motor vehicle step kit which easily mounts to a motor vehicle regardless of the motor vehicle's make and model. The step kit comprises a step body, two L-shaped brackets, two stiffening members and four nuts. The kit further includes three bolts for connecting the step body to a motor vehicle body and three adaptor brackets for use with trucks having a model year of 1991 or later. A first section of each L-shaped bracket is attached to a motor vehicle frame while a second section of each bracket engages an associated one of the stiffening members. A first of the end portions of each stiffening member engages its associated one of the brackets while a second of the end portions is connected to a support receptacle of the step body.

Abstract: A ladder climbing safety clamp is claimed that may be easily operated by a worker with one hand while overcoming many potential safety hazards of prior devices. The safety clamp includes a body with a U-shaped cable sleeve. A channel is included on one side of the body to permit the introduction of the safety line in the cable sleeve. However, if the cable is too large to operate properly with the safety clamp, it will not fit through the channel, thereby helping to prevent inadvertent usage of the safety clamp with a cable of a diameter for which it is not intended. A gravity stop is also provided to prevent the safety clamp from being inadvertently installed in an upside-down position, since the safety clamp would not operate correctly in that position.

Abstract: The present invention provides a portable collapsible ladder that is easily secured onto a vehicle or structure mounted on a vehicle, such as a roof-top rack, to provide ease of access to the upper portion of the vehicle. The ladder of the present invention includes a flexible body portion that is easily folded.Upper strap assemblies extend from opposing sides of the upper portion of the flexible body portion. Angularly shaped hook members are secured to each of the strap assemblies. A lower strap assembly extends from the lower portion of the flexible body portion. An elastic strap joins the lower strap assembly to a lower hook member.In use, the flexible body portion is unfolded so the upper strap assemblies are extended. The upper hook members are secured on the vehicle or structure on the vehicle. The lower hook member is then secured over the seam of the lower vehicle body. Protective bumpers on the outer side of the flexible body portion protect the vehicle from damage from the ladder.

Abstract: A portable step has a tread member to which is pivoted corresponding ends of a pair of support arms that terminate at their opposite ends in projections which extend from the arms at an acute angle thereto. The support arms are rockable to positions in which they substantially parallel one another and extend in the same direction from the tread member, thereby enabling the projections to be passed through openings in a fence or other barrier to suspend the tread member in a substantially horizontal position at an intermediate level between the top and bottom of the fence, thereby facilitating scaling of the fence by a person.

Abstract: A portable light-weight hanger for supporting a bow, rifle, or the like from a tree without damaging the tree. The hanger comprises a J-shaped elongated member having an upper rear portion and a lower front finger projecting forwardly therefrom. A relatively small hollow tube extends horizontally through the upper rear portion, and a flexible cord extends entirely through the hollow tube.

Abstract: A tree stand and an apparatus for securing the tree stand to a tree. The tree stand includes a bracket having a pair of spaced apart cleats located at each of its ends and a removable seating portion. A chain or the like is attached to the upper end of the bracket for encircling the tree. A slotted plate is welded to one side of the bracket for receiving the free end of the chain. A handle is attached to the lower end of the bracket. In operation, the chain is wrapped around the tree and engaged in the slotted plate. The handle is then pulled downward causing the chain to be tightened about the tree and both pairs of cleats to engage the tree surface. The seating portion of the tree stand is then inserted in the upper portion of the bracket and the weight of the stand keeps the bracket in position. The seating portion of the tree stand may be removed from the bracket as needed or moved to other trees having extra brackets as required.

Abstract: A work station for mounting to the side of a vehicle to aid a mechainc in reaching the engine compartment comprising a platform surface, four legs movably attached to the platform so that the height of the platform is adjustable, a brace attached to the platform to space the platform away from the side of the vehicle, and mounting means for attaching the platform to the side of the vehicle so that the platform does not move during use.

Abstract: A support platform for vehicles having a hanger frame that fits over and is supported by the upper portion of a vehicle wheel and a supported platform carried by the hanger frame and foldable with respect to the frame.

Abstract: A pipe step for providing a flat supporting surface on the top side of a horizontal pipe. The step includes a pair of channel members each having arcs cut in the flange portions thereof to meet with the pipe. U-bolts are provided for clamping the channel members to the pipe. A flat-supporting surface form from square mesh grating is bolted to and extends between the upper web portions of the channel members and provides a non-slip flat supporting surface.

Abstract: A pile cutter support comprises a pair of sections which engage opposing faces of a pile. Platforms integrally extend from the engagement portions in a generally perpendicular relationship so as to form a guide and a support for a cutter. The sections are pivotal between a deployed position wherein the sections are engageable against adjacent faces of the pile and a folded compact carrying mode. A ratchet belt is employed to secure the support at a fixed vertical position of the pile.

Abstract: A tree step including a steel rod bent into a configuration including an elongated central portion and a pair of perpendicularly oriented right triangular shaped portions extending perpendicularly from the central portion with one leg of each right triangular shaped portion being at opposite ends of the central portion and lying in parallel planes forming a pair of spaced apart 90 degree orientated steps.

Abstract: A support is provided for fitting over one or more insulating disks in electrical power distribution equipment. The support has a collar which fits about the disk or disks and includes structure which fits onto one of the insulator disks for support. Foot support struts extend outwardly from the collar for support of a climbing crew member's feet.

Abstract: An apparatus including a planar support member including a forward and rear face; each face aligned parallel to one another with a through extending diamond shaped rod directed orthogonally through the forward and rear faces, with a square groove formed in the rod adjacent the rear face to receive a chain link grid member therein. An enclosing safety chain is positioned in surrounding relationship relative to the adjacent chain link fence and an upper rod of the rod members. A modification of the invention includes a step plate defined by a diamond shaped socket and a planar step member aligned with the socket securable to the rod members.

Abstract: A portable ladder assembly adapted to be removably mounted in the space between a body and a rail spaced therefrom, e.g. between the body of a conventional truck trailer and tie down rail. The ladder has a main ladder section having an elongated vertical support member and a plurality of step members transversely secured thereto. Means are disposed adjacent a top end of the elongated member for removably securing an upper end of the main ladder section in the space between the body and the tie down rail. Extension members are provided for extending the ladder above the rail to facilitate personnel climbing on the ladder assmbly. An optional lower ladder section having at least one transverse step member supported by at least one elongated member attached to the main ladder section adjacent a lower end thereof is repositionable between at least two different elevations.

Abstract: A device having two C-shaped hooks and a connecting tether enable a person to assume a seated position within a swimming pool while cleaning the waterline zone of the side wall of the pool. The hooks are precisely contoured so that, when placed in angled relationship to the side wall, the lower end of the hook abuts against the side wall of the pool, and the upper portion of the hook rests upon a horizontal deck surface that surrounds the pool.

Abstract: A portable step apparatus for removable connection to the wheel or bumper of a vehicle to provide a stable platform for a person while working in the engine compartment thereof. The step apparatus comprises a support frame assembly which is securely attached to the exterior surface of the wheel or bumper by an attaching apparatus. A step assembly is adjustably attached to the frame assembly so that the user can adjust the step the desired height. Stabilizing straps may be attached to the bottom of the frame assembly and wrapped around the tire, or passed below the bumper and securely attached to the vehicle to prevent the bottom of the frame assembly from moving sideways or from being pushed away from the vehicle due to the forces generated on the step caused by a person moving around thereon or leaning into the engine compartment of the vehicle. The height of the frame attachment to the vehicle bumper is adjustable as is also the height of the step on the frame assembly.

Abstract: A side bar assembly for attachment to a chassis of a pick-up truck, off-road vehicle or the like capable of being mounted on such vehicles of a plurality of different sizes and configurations, wherein the side bar assembly is formed of a pair of substantially L-shaped tubular members as half-bar tube sections to collectively form a generally U-shaped side bar to extend laterally from a side of the vehicle. A substantially semi-cylindrical connector sleeve defining a concave tube-gripping recess receives the aligned end portions of the tubular members with the connector sleeve partially encircling and gripping the adjacent portions of the tubular members over more than half the circumferential extent of each, and mounting brackets are provided for bolt securement to the vehicle chassis to receive and support end portions of the side legs therein.

Abstract: This invention discloses a vehicular step bench apparatus stabilized through coupling accessories provided for detachable connection to various portions of a vehicle to gain a safe access to elevated areas of a vehicle. The coupling accessories are mechanical attachments that effect a restraining relationship with a front and rear bumpers and wheel members of a vehicle to prevent tilting or tipping towards or away from the vehicle. The mechanical attachments include portions of chains, pivotal stop arms and other mechanical attachment structure. The foot support area is further made safe through the use of a foot traction aids in the form of friction pads adhesively attached to the foot support surface. The step bench apparatus is made portable through foldable structure provided beneath the foot support area for easy storage in a carrying case.

Abstract: For assisting ascent of metal frame towers where steps are not provided, a U-shape adapter is provided for temporarily mounting a step bolt. The adapter has spaced apart legs for straddling the flange of a tower structural member. A tapped bore through one of the legs receives the threaded shank of the step bolt, and the assembly can then be secured to the tower flange like a C-clamp.

Abstract: A rigid tree seat may be secured to a tree or worn as a backpack. The rigid tree seat comprises a sturdy frame having a seat portion and supporting ribs. The frame is removeably covered by a covering that, when in place, cooperates with the frame to form a pack for holding various supplies. First and second straps pass through the frame and the covering. The first strap is used to secure the rigid tree seat to a person's waist in backpack fashion or to a tree or the like. The second strap is used as a safety strap for a person sitting on the rigid tree seat in a tree.

Abstract: A portable step cooperative with the bumper and wheel of large automotive vehicles for use by mechanics, drivers, and service personnel in achieving access to windshields, windows, and engine compartments for servicing: comprising frame means to hang upon and press against a bumper or a large tire with a step means attached thereto and in various forms in a fixed configuration, or in a collapsible configuration, with means to hang upon a mechanics tool box or to be stowed within a truck, bus, or the like directly, the step being formed of slip resistant material and provided with adjustable stops for proper alignment for use upon a bumper or tire, with an adapter for use on a tire integrally or separately provided.

Abstract: A deep water rescue platform incorporating a support frame with a pair of hanger arms for engagement with the side of a pool which are telescopingly adjustable with the frame, a pair of wheels attached to the bottom of the support frame for transportation and stabilizing engagement with the wall of the pool, and a platform hingedly attached to the lower end of the frame which folds into the plane of the frame during storage and a locking means for retaining the platform in its extended position.

Abstract: Construction scaffolding comprising adjacent end frames with joined vertical support members is provided with movable rung members that are extendible and retractable, that engage the exterior surface of the vertical support members, and that are secured to the support members by clamp members having quick-release threaded fasteners.

Abstract: A hook-on adjustable step and cargo platform for vehicles comprised of an upper rectangular load supporting platform member or step, two adjustable triangular support braces, and two readily interchangeable rectangular hooks. Each triangular support brace is adjustably retained in a parallel lengthwise channel on the bottom surface of the platform member. When the platform is in-use, one vertical surface of each triangular brace rest against the front of a vehicle bumper. The triangular braces can be readily adjusted forward or rearward in relative position to the two hooks. The two hooks are removably affixed to the front end of the platform member facing the bumper, one directly in front of each of the triangular braces, positioned to be hooked-over the back edge of the top surface of the bumper. The hooks are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, a lengths to accommodate a variety of styles and thicknesses of materials used in manufacturing bumpers.

Abstract: A tree step is disclosed, including a substantially L-shaped step member of constant cross section. The upright portion of the L-shape is provided with an aperture adapted to hang over a lag screw. The aperture is elongated, with its lower aspect being wide enough to allow it to be passed over the head of the lag screw, and its uppper aspect being somewhat narrower and unable to pass over the head of the lag screw. In the preferred embodiment, at least one and preferably two anchoring lugs project inwardly from a lower portion of the upright portion of the L-shape, each lug having a contoured lower surface and a somewhat pointed upper surface. The upright portion of the L-shape extends somewhat below the horizontal portion, with an integral strut provided between the horizontal portion and the downward extension of the upright portion. The lower portion of the aperture is shaped to match the head of the lag screw.

Abstract: A ladder assembly, primarily for use on vehicles having compartments inconveniently displaced from the ground, has a ladder slidably attached to a storage portion between a retracted storage position and a substantially vertical, operative position, wherein the ladder is reachably displaced above the ground in the operative position. The storage portion is designed to retractably and securely store the ladder when not in use and to prevent disengagement of the ladder from the storage portion when the ladder is in the operative position. The ladder assembly further includes a bracing portion which prevents swinging movement of the ladder, in the operative position, towards the storage portion.

Abstract: A portable fence stile comprising a metal tube of length greater than the height of the vertical fence support posts. The tube having longitudinal vertical slots on opposite sides extending from the bottom to a height slightly greater than the height of the top fence horizontal wire. Stepping distance from the bottom of the tube flat horizontal foot rests extending outwards from the tube on each side of the longitudinal slots. A pliable strap slidably affixed to the longitudinal slot for compressively holding the ends of the tube to prevent spreading or the attach the stile tube to a vertical wood fence post. A rigid horizontal handle at the top of the tube provides climber support.

Abstract: Apparatus for attaching to a bumper of a motor vehicle comprises a pair of clamp members which can be releasably secured to the bumper; a pair of stanchions, with each stanchion being attached to a respective clamp member to extend in a substantially vertical position adjacent to the front of a bumper on which the clamp members are engaged; and a generally rectangular base platform whose length is such that the base platform can be positioned substantially horizontally between the stanchions, with attachment means being provided at each of the opposite, longitudinal ends of the base platform for releasably attaching the base platform to the respective stanchions at selectable positions along the lengths of the respective stanchions.

Abstract: A mechanic's work platform for attachment to a front tire of a motor vehicle has an essentially rectangular support frame to be disposed and supported by a front tire of the vehicle. A depending framework is hingedly attached to the support frame and includes a horizontal frame covered with expanded metal or the like to provide a raised platform for the mechanic.

Abstract: A bumper step includes a rigid base, a pair of first and second elongated hook members adapted to be mounted on an upper portion of a bumper in spaced apart relationship, and a pair of first and second brackets with which to support the base from the hook members. The lower end portion of each one of the brackets is mounted on a respective one of the end portions of the base so that each one of the brackets can be pivoted approximately ninety degrees between a folded position in which the bracket lies generally flat against the upper base surface and an extended position in which the bracket extends generally perpendicular to the upper base surface.

Abstract: A platform for supporting a person while working in the engine compartment of a vehicle, such as a truck. The platform comprises a generally planar member and two legs on the generally planar member having hooks at their upper ends for hooking onto either the front bumper or a front wheel of the vehicle thereby to suspend the planar member in a position wherein it is generally horizontal and at an elevation above the ground where a person standing on the planar member has convenient access to the engine compartment of the vehicle. Also disclosed is such a platform wherein the hook arms are detachable from the planar member for storage within the planar member.

Abstract: An inexpensive tree step is provided that permits a hunter to climb a tree and then remove a portion of the assembly so that the hunters tree stand or steps cannot be stolen.This is accomplished by using a conical pointed screw with a threaded countersunk head which can receive another screw which can easily be connected and disconnected. The unit can also be made of special type treads and special type head.To use the tree step, the hunter merely turns the screw portion into the tree. This conical screw is left in the tree for the duration of the hunting season or until the hunter no longer desired this location. The step portion of the tree step is carried into and out of the woods each day. The threads can be made special so that no other hunter could use a lag bolt or other commercial bolts to attach to the screws in the tree. The step portion also has a handle on the end to act as a stop for the hunter's foot and as a handle to insert and remove the step from the screw.

Abstract: A bracket adapted for self-securement to a building stud or like structural support member having a base on which a bracket member is pivotably mounted for actuating a pair of spaced operating rods, each with a sharpened barb, to move laterally inwardly and outwardly toward one another for selective penetrating engagement and disengagement of the bracket on the stud, thereby enabling easy mounting and demounting without tools.

Abstract: This invention is a simple to make, simple to use, inexpensive step for use on rectangular wooden posts, such as those used in scaffolds. This step has a u shaped body with a portion that encompasses the posts, two "grips" in this portion which bite into the wood to keep the step in place, and a part to step upon. To move this step to a desired position, the part that is stepped upon is tilted up and out from the horizontal. This motion causes the two grips to disengage from the post and to be sufficiently removed from the post to allow the step to slide freely on this post. The step is fabricated from a single sheet of metal that is cut and bent to the desired design.

Abstract: An adjustable, temporary step or platform is shown for mounting on the front bumper of heavy-duty motor vehicles such as trucks and buses. A pair of L-shaped structural members are spaced apart and fitted with a wide platform panel for supporting both feet of the user. Each L-shaped member has a vertical post that is provided with a pair of vertically spaced through bolts that are adjustably mounted to the post. Both bolts are threaded bolts and the top bolt has a down-turned hook formed on the outermost end that is adapted to engage over a top flange of a bumper. The bottom bolt has a rubber or plastic fitting formed on its outermost end that is adapted for engagement with a front wall of a bumper. This unit has been designed so that it is adjustable without the use of tools.

Abstract: A door step surface area is enlarged on a motor home by use of a removable step cover which is larger in area than the step. The cover includes a downwardly extending flange along its rear edge which merges into a forwardly extending flange which extends under the downwardly extending flange along the rear of the step and limits upward and forward movement of the cover on the step. An L-shaped locking element is provided on the lower side of the step cover along the front and includes one leg adjustably connected to the step cover with the other leg extending downwardly and rearwardly into engagement with the lower edge of the downwardly extending flange on the front of the step. The downwardly extending flange is resiliently flexible allowing it to snap in and out of engagement with the front step flange for attachment and removal of the step cover.

Abstract: A tree stand includes a pin up system for easy attachment and removal to a tree high above the ground. The tree stand includes a frame and a platform attached to the frame for supporting the weight of a user and equipment. A hanger stud having a rectangular cross section projects from the frame towards the ground. The tree stand is attached to the tree trunk with a hanger pin which includes a shank with a pointed screw tip at one end for penetrating into the tree trunk. A crank is attached to the shank for rotating the shank and facilitating penetration of the screw tip and shank into the tree trunk. A stud holder is attached to the shank and has an aperture with the same rectangular cross-sectional shape as the hanger stud and is adapted to receive the hanger stud in the aperture to securely hold the frame on the tree trunk. In addition, an automotive seat belt is attached to the frame of the tree stand and is wrapped around the tree trunk to more securely hold the tree stand to the trunk.

Abstract: A tree step includes a means for driving an anchor screw into a tree and then removing the step from the anchor screw. The step comprises an L-shaped bracket having a horizontal foot support section and a vertical screw engaging section associated therewith. An outwardly facing channel having a square cross-sectional profile is incorporated into the vertical screw driving section. The square head of the screw is slipped into the open end of the channel which is located near the intersection of the horizontal and vertical sections and then advanced to the closed end of the channel. Rotation of the horizontal foot support section causes the screw to advance into the tree. Once the screw has advanced as far as posible, the step may then be used to support human weight. After use, the step can be slipped off of the anchor screw thereby leaving it in the tree for subsequent reuse. Alternatively, the step can be rotated in the reverse direction thereby backing the screw out so that it can be used on another tree.

Abstract: A folding portable tree step includes a channel-shape support leg pivotally mounted at a bottom portion to a channel-shape foot member so that when the two are folded for storage purposes, both channel members are open in the same direction. A special lag screw with a square head is pivotally and slidably mounted to an upper portion of the support arm, and a lag screw pivot pin slidably mounts the screw into cam-like guides provided in the channel legs of the support leg. When the lag screw extends outwardly from the support leg and the folded foot member, and the screw pivot pin is in the lower portion of the guide slot, the head of the lag screw is held by the web of the support leg channel so that the lag screw will not pivot when being initially driven into a tree. When the lag screw is moved longitudinally with respect to the support leg, the pivot pin moves the square screw head away from the support leg channel web, and the screw can be pivoted with respect to the support leg.

Abstract: A portable step-forming device releasably attachable to a vertical wooden stud comprises a U-shaped gripping member for closely receiving a stud member, a step member attached to one prong of the U-shaped member and further having an enlarged end for retaining the user's foot on the step member, and a gripping means comprising a spring-loaded reciprocable member with a stud-engaging end for holding the step-forming device in position of the stud member.

Abstract: A portable apparatus for climbing a tree, pole or the like includes a housing with a tree engaging face and a step, a line carried on the housing, and a reel. The line is movable between a retracted position wherein the line is contained within the housing for storage and transport and an extended position wherein the line is attached to the housing on the tree for climbing. A distal end of the line includes a latching block. The latching block is received and retained within a latching slot in the housing after encircling the tree or pole with the line. A biasing spring connected to the reel mechanism assures the take-up of any slack in the line. Following the take-up of slack, a locking pin is moved along a guide track in the housing until it engages a locking slot in the reel. The pin and slot cooperate to maintain the reel in position, thereby positively preventing the paying out of line and allowing safe tree climbing by stepping on the device.

Abstract: A tree step aids persons to climb trees. The tree step comprises a handle and an arm that pivot between a closed side-by-side configuration and an open configuration of 90.degree.. The handle defines a rectangular opening for accepting the head of a lag screw. A concave recess in the opening proximate the handle free end is engageable with the screw shank. After a lag screw is driven into the tree, the handle opening is passed over the screw head and pulled downwardly so that the opening recess engages the screw shank. A leaf spring fastened to the handle has a U-shaped portion that captures the lag screw head when the screw shank is engaged in the concave recess to thereby prevent upward movement of the handle relative to the screw. The screw may be started into the tree by placing the screw to extend longitudinally from the handle with the screw head inserted in the opening and retained therein by the leaf spring. In that mode, the tree step acts as a screwdriver for starting the screw.