Abstract: A linear actuator is configured to be connected between a platform and a structure or ground for displacement of the platform relative to the structure or the ground. The actuator comprises a base, and an output displaceable linearly relative to the base. A first plurality of idlers are on the base, and a second plurality of idlers are on the output. An actuator unit has a reciprocating rotational output. A tensioning member has a first end connected to the rotational output of the actuator unit, and a second end connected to an anchor point on one of the output and the base, the tensioning member being routed from the rotational output, through the first plurality of idlers and the second plurality of idlers and to the anchor point for converting a winding/unwinding of the tensioning member into a translation of the output.

Abstract: An electric power tool includes: a motor unit including a motor; a driving block for transmitting a rotational output of the motor to a front-end tool; and a rotation detector that detects an angle of rotation of the motor. The rotation detector includes a rotating body attached to a motor shaft and a position detector that outputs a rotational position signal corresponding to a rotational position of the rotating body. The rotating body includes an opening, and the motor shaft is press fitted and fixed to the opening of the rotating body.

Abstract: A winch (100, 200) includes a rope (105), an overwinding sensor (106) coupled to the rope (105) where the overwinding sensor (106) is moveable between a first position and a second position upon winding and/or unwinding of the rope (105). The overwinding sensor (106) includes a first electrically conducting member, a contact member (104) having a second electrically conducting member which is contactable by the first electrically conducting member when the overwinding sensor (106) is in the second position. The second electrically conducting member is not contactable by the first electrically conducting member when the overwinding sensor (106) is in the first position. The winch (100, 200) is configured to stop and/or prevent and/or hamper winding of the rope (105) upon establishment of an electrical contact between the first electrically conducting member and the second electrically conducting member when the overwinding sensor (106) is in the second position.

Abstract: A shut-down buffer for a lifting device, in particular a chain hoist, includes two opposing end surfaces and at least two mutually spaced web elements extending between the end surfaces. The shut-down buffer is defined by the end surfaces, between which a through-opening for passage of a load-bearing element of the lifting device extends through the shut-down buffer.

Abstract: According to one aspect, a drilling rig carriage is adapted to move along a drilling mast, and includes a body structure, electric motors coupled to the body structure, and pinions operably coupled to the electric motors, respectively. The pinions are adapted to engage racks, respectively. According to another aspect, a drilling mast includes a longitudinally-extending frame having a first side portion and a second side portion spaced therefrom. Racks are coupled to the frame at the first side portion thereof. According to yet another aspect, an apparatus includes a drilling mast or tower extending longitudinally along an axis, the tower including racks spaced in a parallel relation. A top drive is movable along the axis and relative to the tower. Electric motors are coupled to the top drive and movable therewith. Pinions are operably coupled to the electric motors, respectively, and engage the racks, respectively, to move the top drive.

Abstract: According to one aspect, a drilling rig carriage is adapted to move along a drilling mast, and includes a body structure, electric motors coupled to the body structure, and pinions operably coupled to the electric motors, respectively. The pinions are adapted to engage racks, respectively. According to another aspect, a drilling mast includes a longitudinally-extending frame having a first side portion and a second side portion spaced therefrom. Racks are coupled to the frame at the first side portion thereof. According to yet another aspect, an apparatus includes a drilling mast or tower extending longitudinally along an axis, the tower including racks spaced in a parallel relation. A top drive is movable along the axis and relative to the tower. Electric motors are coupled to the top drive and movable therewith. Pinions are operably coupled to the electric motors, respectively, and engage the racks, respectively, to move the top drive.

Abstract: The invention provides a winch and method for raising and lowering a boat anchor attached to an anchor rope, comprising: an electric motor (10) operable to turn the winch in a rope raising direction or a rope lowering direction and powered from a power source supplying a supply voltage; and a boost controller (CB1-3,S1-2,K1-6,Kx1-4,25,30) for applying a boosted voltage higher than the supply voltage to the motor (10) so as to increase a turning speed of the motor when the motor is operating in the rope lowering direction.

Abstract: A garage door opening module is disclosed, the module comprises a power unit having a rotatable output drive, an endless transmission drive adapted to transfer movement from the rotatable output drive to a door drive, and a sensor mechanism positioned along the endless transmission drive and adapted to sense a transmission drive slack, the sensor mechanism adapted to stop the power unit when a transmission drive slack displacement threshold is reached. A method for actuating a garage door and a sensor module for preventing movements of an assisted garage door are also disclosed.

Abstract: Health and usage monitoring systems for aircraft hoist systems are described herein. In some embodiments, a health and usage monitoring system comprises a capacitive load cell and a processing unit for communication with the capacitive load cell, the capacitive load cell comprising a load receiving surface and a capacitive assembly coupled to the load receiving surface, the capacitive assembly comprising parallel electrically conductive plates separated by a reversibly deformable spacer construction wherein the parallel plates comprise aligned apertures providing a passageway through the capacitive assembly for the hoist system cable.

Abstract: The present invention provides techniques relating to an operating device exhibiting superior dust resistance and water resistance, and more particularly to an operating device exhibiting few design restrictions and a small assembly operation load, and to a moving apparatus including the operating device. In an operating device having, in a casing, a detection unit for detecting input relating to an instruction to operate a driving device that drives movement of an object, a plurality of the detection units are arranged over a partial or entire range of a circumference of the casing in accordance with movement directions of the object.

Abstract: An endless cable winch includes a working cable, a housing, in which is mounted a driving cable pulley around at least a part of which the working cable is wrapped, and further includes a drive for driving the driving cable pulley, wherein the housing is mounted so as to be pivotable about a pivot axis, and a sensor is provided for detecting a pivoting movement of the housing for detecting an overload state of the working cable.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a hoisting limit switch for limiting the maximum allowed hoisting height of a hoisting cable, wherein the hoisting limit switch includes a read-write device for reading and writing data, and a means from which the operating condition of the hoisting limit switch can be read out by the read-write device.

Abstract: A towrope winch with a safety shutoff device includes a winch configured to wind a rope; and a safety shutoff device which deactivates the winch if, during winding of the rope, a foreign object enters a winch intake along with the rope to actuate the safety shutoff device.

Abstract: The invention relates to a subsea marine load raising and lowering system (1) for use on a vessel, preferably a vessel for laying an offshore pipeline, which system comprises first and second winches (2, 6) for raising or lowering first and second cable portions (4, 8) connected via an equalizing sheave (11), to the axle (12) of which a load connector (13) is connected. The system comprises operating means to perform synchronous raising or lowering of the cable portions. The system further comprises overload protection systems provided at both winches, and a safety assembly (15) preventing any substantial further movement of the cable portions (4, 8) in case the cable portions do not operate synchronously, comprising a structure (15a) mounted to the axle (12) of the equalizing sheave (11) having passages (15c) for the cable portions and further comprising stops (15b) arranged on each cable portion above and in the vicinity of the structure (15a).

Abstract: A direct drive drawworks (100) has a permanent magnet motor (40) with a first set of windings (250) and a second set of windings (252), a shaft (41) extending from the permanent magnet motor (40) such that the permanent magnet motor directly rotates the shaft (41), a drum (43) connected to the shaft (41) away from the permanent magnet motor (40) such that the rotation of the shaft (41) causes a corresponding rotation of the drum (43), and a switch cooperative with the first set of windings and the second set of windings so as to cause the sets of windings to be selectively connected in parallel or in series.

Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, a restraint system is described for restraining a standing occupant in a vehicle such as a plane or helicopter. The restraint system includes a webbing strap that winds and unwinds from a spool assembly. The spool assembly includes a trigger assembly that locks a spool from rotation, a manual release assembly for manually releasing the trigger assembly and lock, and an adjustable payout assembly that determines the maximum length that the webbing strap can be pulled out before stopping (i.e., the number of rotations of the spool). The trigger assembly can trigger the lock assembly from one or more sensors. Further, the trigger assembly can be arranged to automatically unlock after a triggering event, manually unlocked after a triggering event or a combination of the two for different sensors.

Abstract: A towrope winch with a safety shutoff device includes a winch configured to wind a rope; and a safety shutoff device which deactivates the winch if the rope moves outside a designated range of angles relative to an intake of the winch.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a hoisting limit switch for limiting the maximum allowed hoisting height of a hoisting cable, wherein the hoisting limit switch includes a read-write device for reading and writing data, and a means from which the operating condition of the hoisting limit switch can be read out by the read-write device.

Abstract: A method for controlling the tension in a spooled device disposed on a winch, comprises providing an input signal to a controller indicative of a measured tension in the spooled device, providing an input signal to the controller indicative of a desired tension in the spooled device, and providing an output signal from the controller to adjust the speed of the winch based on a difference between the desired tension in the spooled device and the measured tension in the spooled device.

Abstract: A task input is received at a well service rig. The maximum allowable speed is determined for the task. Current block speed inputs are received. The throttle position for the engine controlling the block is evaluated to determine if the block is to be sped up or slowed down. When the throttle position indicates the operator is attempting to speed up the block, the current block speed is compared to the maximum allowable speed and the engine is only allowed to speed up the block up to the maximum allowable speed, at which point the operators control of block speed is limited to reducing block speed. Each task can have multiple maximum allowable speeds, which can vary based on specified conditions. When the hookload is light or the remaining equipment in the well is small, the lock-up feature for the transmission can be disengaged in addition to the block speed governing feature.

Abstract: The technology disclosed herein provides a multiple sensor system that prevents crown incursion by a traveling block in an oil rig. This system calculates traveling block position, traveling block velocity and weight supported by the traveling block, and uses this information to calculate emergency stopping positions to prevent crown out by the traveling block. The system takes all these parameters into consideration when slowing and/or stopping the traveling block when it reaches a crown out position. The result is much safer operation of the traveling block on a workover rig, as well as on an oil drilling rig.

Abstract: A system and method of use for determining a desired physical parameter relating to a load deployed by a movable vessel, in a predetermined plane, using a sensor disposed proximate the load underwater where the sensor produces a transmittable signal indicative of the desired physical parameter and communicates the signal, via a communication link, to a receiver that receives and indicates the pressure signal. A deployment frame may be used to further support the load. Once deployed, the load encounters water having changes in the detected physical parameter and the sensor sends a signal indicative of the changes such as to a controller or computer located on a movable vessel. These signals can be used to determine movement and positioning of the load, e.g. when positioning the load proximate an underwater structure.

Abstract: An anti-two block system for a crane having a body formed of a first plate and a second plate, a weighted member connected to the second plate of the body so as to contact a travelling member of the crane when the travelling member moves upwardly beyond a desired level, and a valve affixed to the first plate of the body. The valve is movable between a first position closing the valve and a second position opening the valve. The valve serves to pass fluid flow therethrough in response to a contact between the travelling member and the weighted member. The first plate is connected to the second plate. A spring is interactively connected between the plates so as to urge the second plate upwardly along the first plate when the travelling member contacts the weighted member. The weighted member has a weight so as to overcome the resistance of the spring such that the valve resides in the first position in the absence of contact between the weighted member and the travelling member.

Abstract: The system and method for use with a drawworks having a rotatable drum on which a line is wound, wherein the drawworks and the line are used for facilitating movement of a load suspended on the line, includes a drawworks control system for monitoring and controlling the drawworks. A brake arrangement is connected to the rotatable drum for limiting the rotation of the rotatable drum and at least one electrical motor is connected to the rotatable drum for driving the rotatable drum. A load signal representative of the load on the line is produced and a calculated torque value based on the load signal and electrical motor capacity is provided. The drawworks control system provides a signal representative of the calculated torque value to the electrical motor wherein pre-torquing is generated in the electrical motor in response to the signal.

Abstract: A safety apparatus for a derrick on an oil drilling rig includes a cable having a first end for connection to one side of the derrick at a predetermined location spaced below the crown. A series of pulleys is secured to the oil derrick to define a predetermined path for the cable extending from the fixed first end across the derrick at the predetermined location and then down the derrick to a location adjacent the lower end. The portion of the cable extending across the derrick is positioned in the path of a traveling block as it is pulled up the derrick. An alarm device is linked to the cable to produce an output alarm signal if the cable is pulled up by the traveling block as it approaches the top of the derrick, giving the operator a warning that the traveling block should be stopped to avoid impact with the crown.

Abstract: A pulley is mounted in a surrounding hanging housing, open at the base end thereof and a cable is entrained over the pulley. The cable is provided with a pull means at one end the other end carries a load. Near each end of the cable are tripping brackets engaging a lever mechanism pivoted from the lower portion of the housing. The lever mechanism engages a pivoted tooth pawl. When the lever is tilted one way the pawl engages the load side of the cable to hold it in place when there is no pull on the other side. When the tripping bracket on the load side of the cable reaches the lower edge of the lever it tilts the right side of the lever upwardly which in turn engages a transverse pin on the pawl to move the end of the pawl teeth away from the load side cable and allow the load to descend. When the bracket on the pull side of the cable has risen to the lower left edge of the lever, the lever is tilted towards the load side allowing the pawl to engage the load side of the cable.

Abstract: The disclosure involves a material handling machine, e.g., a crane, having a control circuit switch and a power limit switch. Disclosed is a new weight assembly having first and second weights. The control switch is maintained at a position by the first weight and the power switch is maintained at a position by the second weight which is positioned above the first weight. The weights are telescoped to one another so that vertical weight alignment is assured as the crane hoist bottom block contacts and lifts the first weight. If the bottom block continues its upward travel past a maximum desired elevation, the first weight (urged by the bottom block) lifts the second weight, permitting the power limit switch to trip and preventing the bottom block from continuing upward. And the new assembly is ideal where the space available for limit switch weights is restricted.

Abstract: Disclosed is a crane hoist system having a hoist drum, a drum drive motor and control and power circuit limit switches. The improvement involves a first trip bar coupled to the power circuit limit switch and a second trip bar coupled to the control circuit limit switch. The bars are-vertically aligned and both are pivot mounted at their corresponding ends. The second trip bar is mounted for movement independently of the first trip bar. If the control circuit limit switch fails to function as the second bar is moved a suitable distance upward, such bar contacts and lifts the first bar which, in turn, trips the power limit switch. In one embodiment, both bars are straight and elongate and in another, the second bar is "U" shaped.

Abstract: A limit device for preventing travel of a hoist lift rope load above a predetermined height. The limit device includes an actuator mounted at a reference position adjacent the hoist lifting rope as it is raised and lowered by a prime mover. A switch is connected in a control circuit for the prime mover to place the prime mover in either a raise-lower mode or a raise-prevent mode. A switch actuating mechanism is connected between the actuator and the switch and is operatively connected to maintain the prime mover in its raise-lower mode when the actuator is in its reference position. A follower is mounted at any desired fixed position on the lift rope for travel therewith. Lifting of a load above a predetermined height will result in the follower contacting the actuator to move it from its reference position and cause the switch to place the prime mover in its raise-prevent mode and stop further lifting of the load.

Abstract: A crane claw tilt switch in addition to a cable tension switch is used to prevent a crane claw from becoming entangled in its suspending cable. When the claw lands on the floor or some other object, it either comes to rest or starts to tilt. If it comes to rest, further lowering creates cable slack, operating the tension switch. If it starts to tilt, the tilt switch operates before the claw tilts enough to allow an arm of the claw to catch on the cable. In response to the operation of either switch, a system processor commands the claw to automatically raise, ensuring that it does not become entangled in its cable.

Abstract: A controller for a drilling rig traveling block is disclosed utilizing an absolute position locator and a processor for employing various operating fixed and variable parameters for controlling the speed of travel of the traveling block. As approach limits are reached in either the ascending or descending mode, the position input enters the calculations so that the traveling block is effectively controlled at high speed while safely avoiding an upward or a downward collision. Operation, once the parameter are inputted, is independent of operator control except for override operation.

Abstract: A ship mounted winch is used to retrieve a continuous member for the retrieval of an anchor, a fishing net or the like. The continuous member is handled equally well whether it is a rope, a chain, a cable, or the like, even if the continuous member comprises sequential sections, for example, of rope, chain and cable connected by knots and other irregularities. This is accomplished by an annular series of notches on the central periphery of the winch drum and a central groove that transects them. Further, a detecting device detects markers attached to the continuous member that mark the end of the portion of the continuous member to be retrieved and stop the winch automatically at that point. Also, a stopping device prevents the winch drum from being pulled backwards by the weight of the retrieved object when the winch is stopped.

Abstract: An anti two-blocking device for preventing a lower load block (46) on a crane (10) from coming in contact with an upper load block (44) affixed adjacent a boom point (40). The device comprises a cable follower (60) through which the crane's cable (26) is threaded, situated between the upper load block (44) and the lower load block (46). When the lower load block (46) is within a predetermined distance of the upper load block (44), the lower load block (46) reaches the cable follower (60) and exerts an upwards force which causes the cable follower (60) to activate an actuator (70) for a switch (72). The switch (72) deactivates all activity on the crane (10) which could cause the lower load block (46) to come in contact with upper load block (44). This activity includes lowering the boom (30), reeling in the cable (26) and extending the telescoping sections of the boom (32 and 33).

Abstract: A device is disclosed for realignment of sidewalk sections displaced by settling or root lifting, where a hazardous step exists at a joint or crack. It comprises a rigid longitudinal span supported over the section, with cross members reaching over the section sides. Hooks are suspended from the ends of the cross members, and hooked under the section sides. Winches on the cross members raise the hooks, lifting the section. Dirt is added under the section and graded with a long-handled spreader to realign the section effectively and inexpensively.This method of repair is much better than repouring or patching. Repouring is expensive, and makes the adjacent sections look old by comparison. Patching produces a short ramp, which is itself a hazard and has a makeshift appearance.The device is light enough to be manually positioned with attached wheels, stable in operation, and inexpensive. The only repair material used is dirt, making repairs very inexpensive.

Abstract: An overhoist prevention system suitable for use on a crane comprises (a) a proximity switch (17), (b) a movable detector plate (10) normally biassed away from the proximity switch, (c) an actuator (5) adapted for use with the hoist wire (4) for moving the detector plate towards the proximity switch and (d) a relay (21). The relay is actuated by a signal from the proximity switch and controls the operation of an alarm and/or the supply of the power to the winding drum of the crane.

Abstract: The invention relates to a back tension device for a winch and comprises a freely rotatable pulley having associated therewith a pivotable tensioning element which is adapted to be urged into engagement with a cable from the winch so as to apply a back tension thereto during the hauling mode. Such tensioning assists in correct winding of the cable on the winch drum.

Abstract: Maximum rate of drill bit penetration in high speed coring is achieved by precise control of bit weight and bit speed. The automatic drilling system of this invention makes it possible to quickly reach and maintain this optimum combination or "sweet-point" each time the core bit is started. The required speed and weight is input into the system by the operator. A controller electronically senses the bit weight and provides instantaneous feedback to a hydraulically driven drawworks which is capable of maintaining a precise weight on the bit throughout varying penetration modes. The drilling system uses a combination of equipment that includes a hydraulic system for the control of the drawworks; a solid-state strain gauge load cell apparatus built into the swivel assembly for continuously weighing the drill string; an electronic load control circuitry for determining the bit weight, drill string weight, and for maintaining the bit weight control; and, a top drive system for high speed rotation of the string.

Abstract: The upward and/or downward travel of a traveling block in a derrick is controlled to prevent travel beyond normal, safe operating limits. A control line is positioned across the vertical movement axis of the traveling block and upon being moved by the traveling block will actuate sensors to brake and deactivate the draw works, in the event the traveling block traverses beyond safe predetermined limits.

Abstract: An apparatus for operating a line driven device such as a traverse rod. The apparatus includes a frame member adapted to be mounted on or near the device, a reaction arm mounted on the frame member for pivotal movement, a motor mounted on the reaction arm and having an output shaft with a drive member, the reaction arm being adapted for pivotal movement about the output shaft, and a tensioning member disposed in spaced relation to the drive member. With this arrangement, the tensioning member can engage a line to maintain the line in tension in response to pivotal movement of the reaction arm.

Abstract: A fluid pressure--activated warning system for a crane comprising a plurality of signal device actuators each further comprising a valve spool, shiftable in response to a dangerous condition, and adapted to permit the emission of an alarm on the occurrence of such dangerous condition.

Abstract: A safety system for an oil well type derrick that has a crown block and a traveling block and drawworks for raising and lowering the traveling block. It uses electrical sensing means to detect the presence of the traveling block, and it has electronic circuits to control an actuator for braking the drawworks in order to prevent the traveling block from contacting the crown block.

Abstract: Material is supported on rotatable reel means with one end extending therefrom for connection with a well string for a well bore. Movable means support the portion of material extending between the reel means and well string. Means lower and raise the movable means whereby some of the supported material may be selectively moved into the well bore or removed therefrom along with the well string, if desired, without rotating the reel means on which it is supported during the lowering or removing procedure. Means rotate the reel support means to selectively pay out additional material for movement into the well bore or to reeve material removed from the well bore thereon. Control and actuating means effect operation of the various means as desired. Means support the well string and the material to enable the lowering of the well string and material into, and removal thereof, from the well bore.

Abstract: This invention provides automatic fishing apparatus for trailing line fishing. The trailing line is supported on a reel which is adapted to be coupled or uncoupled with driving means to enable the line to be reeled in or let out. The selective coupling of the reel with the driving means is in response to variations in the line tension caused by a fish being hooked on the line.

Abstract: An automatic cable stop for a tow truck winch having a bifurcated cable guide which rides on the cable and maintains contact even when the cable is positioned at an angle which does not correspond with that of the guide. A direct acting limit switch engages an extension of the cable eliminating complication and cost, as well as improving reliability.

Abstract: An obstacle detector is disclosed, being designed to automatically brake a descending or ascending load suspended on at least two spaced cables, should an obstacle be encountered in the path of the load. The detector comprises at least two winch drums and a rotatable horizontal rod having at least two laterally-spaced levers projecting radially therefrom and inclined on opposite sides of the rod. One end of each cable is secured to a drum, passes through a pulley supporting the load and is secured to a corresponding lever at its other end. A change in the tension of one of the cables, due to an obstacle, results in a small rotation of the rod, thus activating an electric sensing device which effectively shuts down the motor driving the winch drums.

Abstract: A fluid pressure-activated warning system for a crane comprising a plurality of signal device actuators each further comprising a valve spool, shiftable in response to a dangerous condition, and adapted to permit the emission of an alarm on the occurrance of such dangerous condition.

Abstract: A pneumatically operated hoist includes a housing 10 provided with a suspension means 12,13 for suspension of the hoist from an overhead support, a pneumatically driven motor 15 provided with a first flow passage 75 arranged for serving as a pressurized air inlet during raising of a load and as an air exhaust passage during lowering of the load and a second flow passage 76 arranged for serving as an air exhaust passage during raising of the load and a pressurized air inlet during lowering of the load, a load engaging means 16,17 drivingly connected to the motor 15, and a control means 18 or regulating air flow to and from the motor 15. Known such hoists of this type are slow in lowering light loads or too fast in lowering heavy loads safely.

Abstract: A cable detecting system with a cable ship, a cable detector towed by said cable ship via a towing wire and said cable detector dredging the water bottom to find a buried cable, has been improved. When the cable detector detects a buried cable, and the cable is engaged with the cable detector, the towing wire between the cable ship and the cable detector is released either by drawing out a wire from the cable ship or by extending an auxiliary wire from the cable detector, thus, the cable detector stops just when a cable is detected, even when the cable ship continues to move by inertia, and no damage is caused to the cable. The presence of a cable is sensed either through a mechanical means which detects the cable by contact between the cable and the detector, or through electromagnetic means. The detection of a cable triggers the above release of the towing wire.