Abstract: The present invention relates to a securing assembly (1) for securing an elongated support tower (2) to a wind turbine tower (3). The securing assembly (1) comprises a base part (1a) including: a tower holding part (4), a fixed part (5), two arms (6), a plate (6c) arranged at the outer part of each of the two arms (6), the plates (6c) can adapt to the curvature of the wind turbine tower (3) and each comprising at least one rope sliding element (9). The securing assembly (1) comprises a rope (8), being arranged via the rope sliding elements (9), and a rope tightening device (11) arranged on the base part (1a). The rope (8) presses the plates (6c) against the wind turbine tower (3) when tightened.

Abstract: Embodiments for a trailer mounted log loader are described. The trailer mounted log loader includes an A-frame made of square beams which have a connection plate attached at one end forming an apex of the A-frame. A hollow connection adapter is positioned between and connected to the connection plates of the A-frame. An extendable boom arm is situated within the hollow connection adapter. The extendable boom arm has an attachment point at a distal end opposite from the hollow connection adapter where an attachable attachment is connectable to the extendable boom arm. A pair of pivot arms are connected to a base of the A-frame. The A-frame pivot arms are in turn pivotally connect to a pair of uprights . . . . The ability to remove the uprights from the support posts allows the trailer mounted log loader to be mounted to any trailer or truck bed or stored when not in use.

Abstract: A utility pole caddy has a trapezoidal-shaped component with a base and an opposing top. The top includes a concave portion effective to receive a utility pole positioned horizontally relative to the ground. The dimensions of the utility pole caddy are effective to deny pole movement without mechanical assistance. This utility pole secures utility poles at temporary work sites and prevents rolling, reduces vandalism by requiring a machine to remove a pole from the device, and assists crews setting poles by elevating the tops of the poles prior to setting.

Abstract: A telescoping arm with securable pole-tilt assembly for manipulating a utility pole and comprising a pair of opposed jaws and a saddle, the arm comprising a boom and an elongate pin for selectively securing the pole tilt assembly in an operating position to the end of a telescoping boom section or in an out of operation position to an intermediate boom section wherein in the out of operation position the telescoping boom section can extend through the pole-tilt assembly and the elongate pin engages the jaws of the pole-tilt assembly preventing them from being articulated downwards towards the saddle, thereby preventing damage to the telescoping boom.

Abstract: A large tree mover system includes a trench formed around the circumference of the tree, and a plurality of elongate supports beneath the root ball of the tree. Two or more connecting beams positioned over the plurality of supports connect the plurality of supports to form a substantially rigid frame. The plurality of inflatable airbags are positioned under the plurality of supports, and these or other airbags may be positioned under the supports to roll the root ball to a selected location. A method of moving large trees is also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a rotator (10) for jib-carried tools (1), for example tree working units, wherein the rotator (10) includes a stator (20) and a rotor (30), wherein the rotator (10) is connected to a tip (2) of the jib or arm (3) and to the tool (1). The rotator (10) has or includes in its surroundings means (70, 71) for determining the relative position of rotation between rotor (30) and stator (20). The means for determining the relative position of rotation comprises a pulse emitter (70) and a number of pulse generating elements (71), such as grooves or teeth. Limitation of the angle through which the rotator (10) can turn and control of the direction of rotation prevents, for instance, hoses and/or cables (7) from twisting or rotating away from their respective connections, while enhancing the extent to which automation can be achieved at the same time.

Abstract: A portable log skidder designed for towing with various vehicles comprising a self-contained battery-operated winch is herein disclosed. The skidder comprises a steel frame providing an “L”-shaped configuration. An inverted “U”-shaped structure at a rear location provides an opening and an upper pulley over the open frame. To utilize the log skidder, it is positioned in proximity to a large log. A steel cable is extended from the winch and strapped around one end of the log. Next, the winch is used to raise one (1) end of the log slightly off the ground. The log skidder, along with the log, is then pulled using a vehicle thereto a location where the log can be harvested for firewood, lumber, or other purposes. The log is centered over two (2) pneumatic rubber tires on the frame which carry the weight of the log skidder and the log. The winch is controlled by a tethered remote control unit at a safe distance.

Abstract: A nut assembly for connecting adjoining poles in a nuclear reactor may include an upper nut and a lower nut. The upper nut may include threads on an inner surface of the upper nut. The lower nut may include threads on an inner surface of the lower nut. The lower nut may include threads on an outer surface of the lower nut. The upper nut may rotate over the lower nut in order to lock the lower nut.

Abstract: The invention provides a pole lifting apparatus. The pole lifting apparatus including a base section having a base plate; one or more mast sections connected to the base section and extendable in an axial manner therewith, wherein an uppermost mast section of the one or more mast sections comprises a pulley mounted at its uppermost end; and a hoist secured to the base section and having a wire rope operably associated with the one or more mast sections and pulley for use in a pole lifting operation.

Abstract: A pole puller system comprising a base plate, a slide tube, and a slide. The system further comprises a hydraulic cylinder, a hydraulic fluid pump, and a pair of hydraulic hoses. There is also provided a means for coupling a pole to be pulled to the slide.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for facilitating quick and accurate placement of a pole in a post hole for building pole buildings and for holding the post in such position during backfilling, tamping and/or concrete placement in the post hole. A post clamping device holds the post during a time when other adjusting aspects of the present invention can be used to move a post up or down, from side to side in at least two directions, tipping in any direction and rotation about a vertical axis of the post.

Abstract: Methods and devices for positioning a group, array, series or arrangement of plumb poles in a specific relationship relative to each other, whereby a first pole is inserted in a horizontal clamshell attached to a moveable platform, retained and raised to a vertical position and plumbed. The moveable platform is positioned over the pole insertion location and the pole is released. The process is repeated at as many holes as needed. Other embodiments are used to set the poles at specific heights, or angles.

Abstract: An apparatus for transporting and raising pultruded and/or extruded structures. The apparatus is made of plural pullwound pultruded cylindrical structures identical or similar to the pultruded and/or extruded structures. The apparatus allows pultruded and/or extruded structures to be transported, raised and installed in various types of terrain.

Abstract: Methods and devices for positioning a group, array, series or arrangement of plumb poles in a specific relationship relative to each other, whereby a first pole is inserted in a horizontal clamshell attached to a moveable platform, retained and raised to a vertical position and plumbed. The moveable platform is positioned over the pole insertion location and the pole is released. The process is repeated at as many holes as needed. Other embodiments are used to set the poles at specific heights, or angles.

Abstract: Motorized vehicles having hydraulic tools as attachments are well known. Examples includes road graders, excavators, snow ploughs (and nursery equipment such as tree spades, tree movers and tree handling equipment), tractors, front loaders, and skid steers. A single hydraulic tool may be controlled by a simple manually operated hydraulic control system if the operation of the hydraulic tool is not complex. The use of “Electric over Hydraulic control” is more commonly used for hydraulic attachments with more complex functionality. A typical electric over hydraulic control system uses a bundle of wires; in which each wire in the bundle is dedicated to a particular operational feature of the attachment. These wires are prone to failure as a result of the wear and tear they are exposed to during normal use of the equipment. This, in turn, has led to proposals for the use of a wireless control system.

Abstract: Methods and devices for positioning a group, array, series or arrangement of plumb poles in a specific relationship relative to each other, whereby a first pole is inserted in a horizontal clamshell attached to a moveable platform, retained and raised to a vertical position and plumbed. The moveable platform is positioned over the pole insertion location and the pole is released. The process is repeated at as many holes as needed. Other embodiments are used to set the poles at specific heights, or angles.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for handling pipes in a derrick and racking the pipes on a pipe racking assembly mounted on the derrick. The apparatus includes a rotatable gate assembly rotatably mounted on the pipe racking assembly. The rotatable gate assembly includes a collar rotatably mounted to a first end of a rotatable pipe support. A pipe manipulator arm is pivotably mounted on a second end of the rotatable gate assembly. The collar defines a gate for securing an upper portion of the pipe stand. A pipe mount is mounted to a distal end of the arm for holding the pipe stand for transport between the derrick and the gate, and between the gate and the pipe rack. After the arm secures the pipe stand into the gate from the derrick, a drive mechanism rotates the rotatable gate assembly to a rack facing position from the derrick facing position such that the arm may transport the pipe between the gate and the pipe rack.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for manufacturing a handling pole including a pole section, a pole adapter connected to one end of the pole section, a spade member connected to the other end of the pole section, and a nut assembly for connecting adjoining poles. The pole adapter may include an upper sleeve and the spade member may include a lower sleeve.

Abstract: A tower segment erection tool having a frame with a first side, a second side showing in the opposite direction than the first side and a holding mechanism for holding the frame with its first side at the bottom of a tower segment to be erected. A first support element adjoins the frame's second side such that it is located substantially under a section of the tower segment's peripheral wall when the tool is attached to the tower segment to be erected. The first support element has a curved surface allowing a rolling motion of the tower segment erection tool A second support element adjoins the frame's second side and has a foot that is spaced from the curved surface of the first support element such that it is located substantially in the tower segment's centre axis and that it is further away from the tower segment's bottom in a direction parallel to the tower segment's centre axis than the curved surface when the tower segment erection tool is attached to the tower segment to be erected.

Abstract: A tracked vehicle with a front blade for clearing roads and a rear mounted crane to set and rig a utility pole in remote locations. The front blade is configured with mounts to carry an auger. A cradle on the front blade and on an outrigger of the crane is used to transport a pole. The vehicle is configured to carry all necessary accessories to the site including a pole grapple, a collapsible personnel bucket, and a water supply for cutting and/or compacting the hole. The crane folds to a compact configuration behind the cab of the tracked vehicle and, when extended, can access poles up to 85 feet tall. The crane can be operated by remote control for safe operation near energized lines or when positioned on steep terrain. The crane can be removed from the vehicle in the field for unencumbered use of the tracked vehicle and blade.

Abstract: Pole or mast handling apparatus adapted for mounting on a loader type vehicle, such as a tractor mounted loader or skid steer type loader having one or more booms movable between reclined position and an elevated position, the booms including a support member mounted at a distal end and positionable with respect to the booms. The apparatus includes a frame for mounting on the support member and a pair of pole grasping jaws which are selectively operable by a hydraulic actuator to move between pole grasping and non-grasping positions. The booms and support member may be oriented such that the apparatus is in a position to grasp a pole in a reclined position and by raising the boom and retracting the support member, rotate the apparatus so that the pole is in an erect position for placement in a receptacle.

Abstract: A tracked vehicle with a front blade for clearing roads and a rear mounted crane to set and rig a utility pole in remote locations. The front blade is configured with mounts to carry an auger. A cradle on the front blade and on an outrigger of the crane is used to transport a pole. The vehicle is configured to carry all necessary accessories to the site including a pole grapple, a collapsible personnel bucket, and a water supply for cutting and/or compacting the hole. The crane folds to a compact configuration behind the cab of the tracked vehicle and, when extended, can access poles up to 85 feet tall. The crane can be operated by remote control for safe operation near energized lines or when positioned on steep terrain. The crane can be removed from the vehicle in the field for unencumbered use of the tracked vehicle and blade.

Abstract: A tree moving device is provided that includes a plurality of points for interconnecting to a basket that contains the root structure of a tree. The tree moving device includes a plurality of arms that provide locations for hooks that are interconnected to chains that receive the basket. Thus a system is provided that provides 360° support of a root ball of the tree. It is envisioned that the tree moving device be lightweight, thereby facilitating transportation and reducing manpower required to transport and plant the tree.

Abstract: A log forwarder comprising a chassis having two sides, a separate series of rollers mounted substantially along the length of each side of the chassis, each series of rollers having an endless track made substantially of elastomeric material that extends around the rollers so as to contact the ground, with the series of rollers extending the ground contact area and weight distribution substantially along the length of the log forwarder, a flat bed for receiving logs; a covered cab; a boom adjacent said covered cab adaptable for moving logs to and from the flat bed, the covered cab including within it a first set of controls for maneuvering the log forwarder and a second set of controls for manipulating the boom, and the log forwarder having a height and a width which are less than height and width dimensions that require a road travel permit.

Abstract: A log hauling device is provided which includes a frame member; a connection means at one end of the frame member for connection of the frame member to a tow vehicle; a log carriage slidably mounted on the frame member; and a retaining member for retaining a log in the log carriage. The log carriage is slidably mounted on the frame member for movement from a log loading position adjacent a proximal end of the frame member to an extended position adjacent to a distal end of the frame member.

Abstract: A tracked vehicle with a front blade for clearing roads and a rear mounted crane to set and rig a utility pole in remote locations. The front blade is configured with mounts to carry an auger. A cradle on the front blade and on an outrigger of the crane is used to transport a pole. The vehicle is configured to carry all necessary accessories to the site including a pole grapple, a collapsible personnel bucket, and a water supply for cutting and/or compacting the hole. The crane folds to a compact configuration behind the cab of the tracked vehicle and, when extended, can access poles up to 85 feet tall. The crane can be operated by remote control for safe operation near energized lines or when positioned on steep terrain. The crane can be removed from the vehicle in the field for unencumbered use of the tracked vehicle and blade.

Abstract: Methods and devices for positioning a group, array, series or arrangement of plumb poles in a specific relationship relative to each other, whereby a first pole is inserted in a horizontal clamshell attached to a moveable platform, retained and raised to a vertical position and plumbed. The moveable platform is positioned over the pole insertion location and the pole is released. The process is repeated at as many holes as needed. Other embodiments are used to set the poles at specific heights, or angles.

Abstract: Pole or mast handling apparatus adapted for mounting on a loader type vehicle, such as a tractor mounted loader or skid steer type loader having one or more booms movable between reclined position and an elevated position, the booms including a support member mounted at a distal end and positionable with respect to the booms. The apparatus includes a frame for mounting on the support member and a pair of pole grasping jaws which are selectively operable by a hydraulic actuator to move between pole grasping and non-grasping positions. The booms and support member may be oriented such that the apparatus is in a position to grasp a pole in a reclined position and by raising the boom and retracting the support member, rotate the apparatus so that the pole is in an erect position for placement in a receptacle.

Abstract: An apparatus for handling pipes in a derrick and racking the pipes on a pipe racking assembly mounted on the derrick is provided to improve the stability of transferring pipes during a round trip operation. The apparatus includes a rotatable gate assembly mounted on the pipe racking assembly. The rotatable gate assembly includes a collar rotatably mounted to a first end of a shaft and an arm pivotably and rotatably mounted on a second end of the shaft. The collar defines a gate for securing an upper portion of the pipe stand. A first securing means mounted to a second end of the arm secures the mid-portion of the pipe stand and a second securing means mounted to the first securing means secures the lower portion of the pipe stand. After the arm secures the pipe stand from the derrick, a drive mechanism mounted to the shaft rotates the rotatable gate assembly such that the arm may rack the pipe on the pipe racking assembly.

Abstract: A light pole erector and remover (10) for pedestal mounted light poles (74) that is comprised of three major elements: a transportation dolly (20), a pedestal attaching and lifting mechanism (22), and a pole tilting mechanism (24). The dolly (20) has fixed and steerable wheels attached to a tongue (34). The mechanism (22) is hinged to the dolly (20) and has a pair of base support arms (52) that embrace a concrete pedestal (56). Each arm (52) has a ratchet buckle tie-down (58) used for encircling the pedestal (56) and securing the mechanism (24) to the pedestal (56). The mechanism (24) is pivotally affixed to the mechanism (22) and includes a pair of ratchet buckle tie-downs (58) that encircle and secure the pole (74) to the invention (10). The pole (74) is horizontally positioned on the tilting mechanism (24), tied down and rotated to a vertical position over the concrete pedestal (56) and then lowered for attachment to the pedestal (56).

Abstract: The pipe racking system is designed to handle drilling tubulars (primarily drill pipe and drill collars) between the racked or setback position and the well center. The racking system can mechanically grasp a stand of pipe, lift the pipe sufficient for free movement, and deliver the pipe to either the setback area for storage or to well center to be added to the drilling string. The purpose of this newly developed system is to move pipe safely and efficiently in the vertical position for drilling operations. Together with the use of its mechanized fingerboard, the system automates the process of handling and storing pipe vertically, thus eliminating the need for a worker at the racking board level. The system is capable of being installed within the masts of smaller rigs and may remain installed in the mast during rig moves thus minimizing any disassembly for rig-down.

Abstract: The device for transporting segments of wood comprises an annular binding made of a material that is biodegradable and combustible. The binding can thus be burnt in a fireplace after it has been used. Said binding comprises two binding rings and spacers, the rings and the spacers being assembled together by means of them having co-operating shapes. Wedges make it possible to hold the segments of wood in position, without having to use a clamping band.

Abstract: To erect metal utility poles, a plurality of tubular sections of utility poles are fabricated, each having tapered portions and the diameter of one being slightly larger than the diameter of another. The sections are brought to a site for erection and pulled together with short repeated strokes of a hydraulic cylinder attached to one section with its piston rod connected to another section of utility pole. In one embodiment it is not necessary to manually adjust the mechanism pulling the sections of utility poles together and in another embodiment, a light flexible cord is attached to one section and a hydraulic cylinder to another section. The hydraulic cylinder pulls the cord and when the piston rod is extended for the next retraction, the cord length is adjusted.

Abstract: Apparatus for gripping and lifting objects such as fence posts. A frame carries a pair of grippers that are slidingly movable along the frame to grasp a post or other object. The grippers may pivot so that the object remains in essentially constant vertical orientation despite arcuate motion of a tractor or other lifting machine by which the frame is lifted. The grippers may be actuated by hydraulic or other power provided by the lifting machine.

Abstract: An apparatus for moving large objects such as nursery stock incorporate two elongated arms, each including a handling member with a horizontal portion and a downwardly extending portion being attached to the end of each arm. When the arms are moved in relation to one another the handling members can encircle and support a load thereby allowing stable movement and loading of large objects such as nursery stock.

Abstract: A low-profile container with a wide flat bottom for use in transplanting trees and other large plants with minimal disruption to the root ball. It typically has a diameter dimension of approximately four feet or more, with the minimum contemplated diameter dimension being approximately one-and-one-half feet, as well as arcuate side walls and at least one sturdy ring on its outside surface that is configured for lifting the combined weight of the container, plant, and root ball. A plant would be grown in the container, transported to its intended planting location in the container, and then transplanted into a pre-dug hole with the assistance of the container. Optionally, the container also may have drainage holes adjacent to or through its bottom surface and obliquely positioned anchoring passages that assist in maintaining the plant and container in an upright position in the presence of strong winds.

Abstract: A utility pole installation system, comprising a hydrovac unit having a chassis and a utility pole positioner mounted on the chassis. The hydrovac unit has an internal combustion engine mounted on the chassis, and a hydrovac boom mounted on the chassis. A hydraulic power supply mounted on the chassis is powered by the internal combustion engine and used to power both the hydrovac boom and the utility pole positioner.

Abstract: A light-pole erecting and lowering apparatus (10) that is designed to allow a single person to install, remove and service a light pole (136) that is attached to an above-ground concrete pedestal (130). The apparatus (10) consists of an integrated unit that incorporates three major elements: a transporting dolly (12), a pole platform and pedestal attachment frame (34) and a pivoting pole-securing assembly (70). The dolly (12) includes a set of wheels (28) and casters (30) that allow the apparatus (10) to be transported over various surfaces. The pole platform and pedestal attachment frame (34) allows the apparatus (10) to be placed in either a horizontal storage and transporting position or in a vertical position. The pivoting pole-securing assembly (70) includes a pole securing platform (86) and means for allowing the platform (86) to be rotated to either a horizontal or to a vertical position and to adjust the height of an erected platform (86).

Abstract: A utility pole installation system, comprising a hydrovac unit having an articulated chassis and a utility pole positioner mounted on the chassis. The hydrovac unit has an internal combustion engine mounted on the chassis, and a hydrovac boom mounted on the chassis. A hydraulic power supply mounted on the chassis is powered by the internal combustion engine and used to power both the hydrovac boom and the utility pole positioner.

Abstract: Streetlight poles are lifted to a vertical position for installation in a mounting hole or on a support stand by connecting the lift cable of a boom to an elongate sling that is releasably attached to the pole.

Abstract: A pole extractor having a base and a hydraulically operable cylinder and ram assembly. The base is coupled to an attachment means to define a slot for accepting a mobile positioning device. The cylinder and ram assembly have a proximal end coupling said assembly to the base. The ram has a distal end remote from the base, which has a connecting means to accept a holding means. In use, the holding means releasably holds a pole. The cylinder and ram assembly has a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet to communicate with an actuating means that controls extension of the ram within the cylinder, which in turn extracts the pole. In use, a pole is choked to the ram and the ram is actuated in order to extract the pole from a substrate.

Abstract: A utility pole installation system, comprising a hydrovac unit having a chassis and a utility pole positioner mounted on the chassis. The hydrovac unit has an internal combustion engine mounted on the chassis, and a hydrovac boom mounted on the chassis. A hydraulic power supply mounted on the chassis is powered by the internal combustion engine and used to power both the hydrovac boom and the utility pole positioner.

Abstract: A digger derrick truck for installing poles into the ground. The digger derrick truck includes a boom on which a pole guide assembly is slidably mounted. The pole guide assembly is operatively associated with a latching mechanism which releasably couples the pole guide assembly and the boom in an operative position and an inoperative position. The latching mechanism includes a latch arm and a release mechanism such that, when the boom is retracted, the release mechanism allows the latch arm to pivot and couple the pole guide assembly and the boom.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for single handed erection of a tent pole having a tent supporting end and a ground end the ground end supported in a carrier pulled along the ground to position the ground end of the pole beneath the portion of the tent contacting the tent supporting end of the tent pole. The apparatus uses a cable connected to a receptacle fitted over the ground end of the tent pole with the cable wound around a cable drum of a winch, the receptacle supported by wheels, rollers or skids to move along the ground as the cable is wound onto the drum. A motorized winch and remote control place the user outside the tent as it is erected.

Abstract: The present invention presents novel features for providing a lightweight, structurally rigid collection body comprising a loading assembly for dumping refuse into an elevated hopper; a reception area for refuse dumped into the hopper; a storage area for storage and compaction of refuse; a packer assembly for compression of the refuse within the storage area; a tailgate providing access to the storage area; a latching mechanism for the tailgate; and an actuation system comprised of hydraulic and electrical components for controlling the operation thereof. The collection body is self-contained and sufficiently rigid for mounting on the chassis of a vehicle without major vehicle modifications. Its walls are constructed of an inner wall, an outer wall, an upper frame member and a lower triangular member, forming a light weight, composite sidewall structure which resists bending and buckling. The inner wall may be easily replaced when damaged without replacement of the outer wall.

Abstract: A pole extractor having a base and a hydraulically operable cylinder and ram assembly. The base is coupled to an attachment means to define a slot for accepting a mobile positioning device. The cylinder and ram assembly have a proximal end coupling said assembly to the base. The ram has a distal end remote from the base, which has a connecting means to accept a holding means. In use, the holding means releasably holds a pole. The cylinder and ram assembly has a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet to communicate with an actuating means that controls extension of the ram within the cylinder, which in turn extracts the pole. In use, a pole is choked to the ram and the ram is actuated in order to extract the pole from a substrate.

Abstract: Streetlight poles are lifted to a vertical position for installation in a mounting hole or on a support stand by connecting the lift cable of a boom to an elongate sling that is releasably attached to the pole.

Abstract: The pole handler attachment includes a base frame that is pivotally attached to an arm of an earth moving machine for pivotal movement about a transverse horizontal axis. A trunnion is fixed to the base frame. A sleeve is journaled on the trunnion for pivotal movement about a trunnion axis that is normal to the transverse horizontal axis. A fixed clamp assembly is fixed to the sleeve. A movable clamp assembly is pivotally attached to the sleeve. A clamp cylinder pivots the movable clamp assembly to hold a pole against first and second clamp surfaces on the fixed clamp assembly. The first clamp surface is perpendicular to the second clamp surface. A tilt linear actuator pivots the sleeve on the trunnion.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for single handed erection of a tent pole having a tent supporting end and a ground end the ground end supported in a carrier pulled along the ground to position the ground end of the pole beneath the portion of the tent contacting the tent supporting end of the tent pole. The apparatus uses a cable connected to a receptacle fitted over the ground end of the tent pole with the cable wound around a cable drum of a winch, the receptacle supported by wheels, rollers or skids to move along the ground as the cable is wound onto the drum. A motorized winch and remote control place the user outside the tent as it is erected.

Abstract: A digger derrick truck for installing poles into the ground. The digger derrick truck includes a boom on which a pole guide assembly is slidably mounted. The pole guide assembly is operatively associated with a latching mechanism which releasably couples the pole guide assembly and the boom in an operative position and an inoperative position. The latching mechanism includes a latch arm and a release mechanism such that, when the boom is retracted, the release mechanism allows the latch arm to pivot and couple the pole guide assembly and the boom.