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WO2024187123A1 - Dispositif d'escalade sur ligne et de verrouillage à double action - Google Patents

Dispositif d'escalade sur ligne et de verrouillage à double action Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2024187123A1
WO2024187123A1 PCT/US2024/019153 US2024019153W WO2024187123A1 WO 2024187123 A1 WO2024187123 A1 WO 2024187123A1 US 2024019153 W US2024019153 W US 2024019153W WO 2024187123 A1 WO2024187123 A1 WO 2024187123A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
line
rotating body
climbing device
main body
cams
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
PCT/US2024/019153
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English (en)
Inventor
Mark Rutledge GAROFANO
Ryan LUSHT
James CHAMBRELLI
Delray CANFIELD
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Buckingham Manufacturing Co Inc
Original Assignee
Buckingham Manufacturing Co Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Buckingham Manufacturing Co Inc filed Critical Buckingham Manufacturing Co Inc
Publication of WO2024187123A1 publication Critical patent/WO2024187123A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Pending legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B29/00—Apparatus for mountaineering
    • A63B29/02—Mountain guy-ropes or accessories, e.g. avalanche ropes; Means for indicating the location of accidentally buried, e.g. snow-buried, persons
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62B—DEVICES, APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR LIFE-SAVING
    • A62B1/00—Devices for lowering persons from buildings or the like
    • A62B1/06—Devices for lowering persons from buildings or the like by making use of rope-lowering devices
    • A62B1/14—Devices for lowering persons from buildings or the like by making use of rope-lowering devices with brakes sliding on the rope

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates generally to line climbing devices. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to on-line work positioning devices for ascending and descending on a line and a locking device for securing a pair of plates to one another, which can be unlocked via dual action (two mechanical steps) from a user to decouple the plates.
  • Lines are frequently utilized in work activities that require access to heights. For example, lines may be employed to access towers and buildings. Lines are also frequently employed by arborists for accessing trees.
  • Conventional line climbing devices are available to assist in ascending and descending lines used in such activities. Such devices provide for safer and more secure climbing.
  • One line climbing device employs an expandable device that has a series of misaligned holes that provide friction to a line passing therethrough. The device is collapsible to align the holes to allow the line to pass through for ascending and descending. Some other devices require the use of two separate products to ascend or descend a line.
  • many devices include plates and flanges that are moveable with respect to one another to provide access to the area inside the plates but require that the plates or flanges be secured with one another for operation.
  • the devices may include locking devices to secure the plates or flanges to one another.
  • a line climbing device of an embodiment includes a main body.
  • a first rotating body is rotatably coupled to the main body and has a pair of articulating cams located therein.
  • a second rotating body is coupled to the main body and has one or more fixed and/or roller element located therein.
  • the first rotating body and second rotating body are configured to receive a line along a path along the one or more fixed and/or roller elements and between the pair of cams such that the rotation of the first and second rotating bodies in a first direction increases friction on the line and rotation of the first and second rotating bodies in a second direction decreases friction on the line during use.
  • the rotation provides a larger radius of friction to provide increased control over the amount of metal that contacts the line, which in turn provides increased control over the amount of friction.
  • the line climbing device of the present disclosure allows acceleration and deceleration when using the line climbing device to be varied in a more gradual manner.
  • line includes, but is not limited to, ropes, cables, webbing, and similar climbing materials (as should be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art in conjunction with a review of this disclosure).
  • FIG. 1A is a front view of an exemplary line climbing device in a first position according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. IB is a front view of the exemplary line climbing device shown in FIG. 1 A in a second position according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 1C is a schematic front view of the exemplary line climbing device shown in FIG. 1A with the first rotating body in an open position according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. ID is a perspective view of the exemplary line climbing device shown in FIG. 1 A with a plate removed from the first rotating body and with the second rotating body in an open position according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. IE is a front view of the exemplary line climbing device with the second rotating body in the first position according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. IF is a front view of the exemplary line climbing device with the second rotating body in the second position according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2A is a schematic view of a spring mechanism located in the main body of the exemplary line climbing device according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2B is an image of the spring mechanism located in the main body of the exemplary line climbing device according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2C is a perspective view of a portion of the spring mechanism of the line climbing device according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2D is an isometric top view of a first plate of the exemplary line climbing device according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2E is an isometric top view of a second plate of the exemplary line climbing device according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2F is an isometric bottom view of the second plate of the exemplary line climbing device according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2G is an isometric view of a locking device of the exemplary line climbing device according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2H is an isometric view of a barrel of the locking device shown in FIG. 2G according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 21 is another isometric view of the locking device of the exemplary line climbing device according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2J is an exploded isometric view of the locking device shown in FIG. 2G according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2K is a cross-sectional view of the locking device shown in FIG. 2G according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2L is an isometric view of a main body of the locking device shown in FIG.
  • FIG. 2M is another isometric view of the main body of the locking device shown in FIG. 2G according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2N is another isometric view of the main body of the locking device shown in
  • FIG. 2G according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 20 is yet another isometric view of the main body of the locking device shown in FIG. 2G according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2P is an isometric view of a retention pin of the locking device shown in FIG.
  • FIG. 2Q is an isometric view of a thimble of the locking device shown in FIG. 2G according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2R is an isometric view of a barrel drive pin of the locking device shown in FIG. 2G according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2S is an isometric view of a retention screw of the locking device shown in FIG. 2G according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2T illustrates the locking device shown in FIG. 2G with the thimble removed for illustration purposes with the barrel drive pin in the unlocked position according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2U illustrates the locking device shown in FIG. 2G with the thimble removed for illustration purposes with the barrel drive pin in the locked position according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2V illustrates the interaction of the head of the barrel of the locking device shown in FIG. 2G with a first plate of the line climbing device according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2W is a front view of the exemplary line climbing device with the first rotating body plate and articulating cams removed according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2X is a perspective view of the first rotating body with a plate removed according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the cams of the exemplary line climbing device according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 3B illustrates a line channel along one of the cams of the exemplary line climbing device according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 3C is a perspective view with one of the cams removed to illustrate one of the stanchions that holds the cams of the exemplary line climbing device according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 4A is a perspective view of fixed and/or roller elements of the exemplary line climbing device according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 4B is a perspective view of a locking mechanism for the second rotational body of the exemplary line climbing device according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 4C is a cross-sectional schematic of the locking mechanism illustrated in FIG. 4B according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 4D is a front view of the button according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 4E is a side view of the button according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 4F is a deconstructed view of the button according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 5 A is a front view of the exemplary line climbing device with the device closed according to an aspect of the present invention.
  • FIG. 5B is a front view of the exemplary line climbing device with the device opened according to an aspect of the present invention.
  • FIG. 5C is another front view of the exemplary line climbing device with the device closed according to an aspect of the present invention.
  • FIG. 5D is another front view of the exemplary line climbing device with the device open according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 6A is a front view of the moving bollard according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the moving bollard according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 6C is a deconstructed view of the moving bollard according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 6D is a perspective view of the second rotating body with the anchor in a first position according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 6E is a perspective view of the second rotating body with the anchor in a second position according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 7 is a rear view of the exemplary line climbing device with the plates removed according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the exemplary line climbing device with the front plates removed according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 9A is a photograph of the exemplary line climbing device in use in a neutral position while a user is ascending on a line according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 9B is a photograph of the exemplary line climbing device in use while the device is loaded with a user’s weight according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 9C is a photograph of the exemplary line climbing device in use while a user is descending on a line according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 10A is a front view of the exemplary line climbing device according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 1 OB is a perspective view of the exemplary line climbing device according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 10C is a cross section view of the fixed pivot point according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 10D is a perspective view of the moving bollard according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 10E is a cross section view of the moving bollard according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 11 A is a front view of the line climbing device in use on a line according to the alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 10 A.
  • FIG. 1 IB is a front view of the line climbing device in use on a line with the device open according to the alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 10A.
  • FIG. 11C is a front view of the line climbing device in use on a line and loaded with a user according to the alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 10A.
  • FIG. 1 ID is a front view of the line climbing device in use within a moving line configuration according to the alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 10A.
  • FIG. 1 IE illustrates the line climbing device connected to a user while in use within a moving line configuration according to the alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 10A.
  • FIG. 1 IF is a front view of the line climbing device in use within a single line configuration according to the alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 10A.
  • FIG. 11G is a front view of the line climbing device shown in FIG. F connected to a user according to the alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 10A.
  • FIG. 11H illustrates a user connected to the accessory connection point according to the alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 10 A.
  • FIG. Ill illustrates a user releasing friction from the line climbing device within a single line configuration according to an alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 10A.
  • FIG. 11 J illustrates a user releasing friction from the line climbing device within a moving line configuration according to an alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 10A.
  • FIG. 11K illustrates a user actuating the dual action locking mechanism shown in FIG. 2G according to an alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 10A.
  • FIG. 1 IL illustrates a line positioned between the cams of the line climbing device according to an alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 10A.
  • FIG. 1 IM illustrates a close-up view of the line positioned between the cams of the line climbing device according to an alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 10A DETAILED DESCRIPTION
  • Much of this disclosure includes descriptions of a climbing device being used to increase and decrease friction on a line. This increase and decrease of friction can be accomplished by the movement of one or more (e.g., three) main structural components with respect to each other and the effect each has on the line positioned therebetween.
  • the movement of a first rotating body to the position shown in FIG. 5A articulates the cams therein in such a way that provides a least amount of bend and squeezing force on the line, allowing the line to pass through the cams with a least amount of resistance (i.e., friction).
  • the top portion of the second rotating body when rotated to the position shown in FIG. 5A (i.e., rotated clockwise about the pivot as shown), the top portion of the second rotating body is positioned away from the main body, and the line that is passing between the components in the second rotating body has a least amount of bend, thereby passing through the second rotating body with a least amount of friction. See also FIG. 5B.
  • friction on the line can be increased by moving the first rotating body to the position shown in FIG. 5C (i.e., rotated counterclockwise as shown) where the cams are articulated in such a way that provides a greater bend and squeezing force on the line, causing a greater amount of friction to be applied to the line when passing through the first rotating body.
  • the second rotating body when it is positioned as shown in FIG.
  • the top portion of the second rotating body (furthest away from the pivot point) is positioned toward the main body (i.e., rotated counterclockwise as shown), and the line that is passing between the components in the second rotating body has a greater bend, thereby passing through the second rotating body with a greater amount of friction. See also FIG. 5D.
  • the first rotating body and second rotating body are capable of rotating independently of each other, there are many ways to increase and decrease friction on a line based on the movement of either component alone or together. This multiple permutation should be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art in conjunction with a review of this disclosure.
  • FIGS. 1A- 1D An exemplary line climbing device 10 of this disclosure is illustrated in FIGS. 1A- 1D.
  • the line climbing device 10 includes a main body 12 rotatably coupled to a first rotating body 14 and second rotating body 16 at first attachment element 18 and second attachment element 20, respectively.
  • the line climbing device 10 can further include cam 22(1 ) and 22(2), and roller and/or fixed elements 24(1) and 24(2), although the line climbing device 10 can include other types and/or numbers of other elements/devices in other configurations.
  • one or more of the cam devices are replaced with one or more sheeves as described in further detail below.
  • the line climbing device 10 can be 5.56 inches tall, 5.39 inches long, and 1.15 inches wide.
  • the main body 12, the first rotating body 14, and the second rotating body 16 can be made of 6061-T6 or 7075-T6 aluminum, and the first attachment element 18, the second attachment element 20, the cams 22(1) and 22(2), and the roller and/or fixed elements 24(1) and 24(2) can be made of 304 stainless steel.
  • the cam devices 22(1) and 22(2), the roller and/or fixed elements 24(1) and 24(2), and the line channel insert 36 provide a path for a line to extend through the line climbing device 10 as illustrated and described below in further detail with respect to FIGS. 5A-5D.
  • Rotation of the first rotating body 14 and second rotating body 16 with respect to the main body 12 increases or decreases friction on the line during use as described in further detail below.
  • rotation of the first rotating body 14 and second rotating body 16 in a first direction creates a bend radius that applies a pinching and/or squeezing force on the line that increases friction on the line to allow for deceleration of a user on the line.
  • Rotating the first rotating body 14 and second rotating body 16 in the opposite direction removes the bend radius and the pinching and/or squeezing force to allow the line to extend through the line climbing device 10 more freely to provide acceleration to a user on the line as the line passes through the line climbing device 10, as described below.
  • the line climbing device 10 advantageously provides rotation between a pair of members to vary the amount of friction applied to the line during ascending or descending.
  • the rotation provides a larger radius of friction to provide increased control over the amount of metal that contacts the line, which in turn provides self-adjusting or self-correcting control over the amount of friction.
  • the line climbing device 10 allows acceleration and deceleration when using the line climbing device 10 to be varied in a more gradual manner.
  • the components of the line climbing device 10, including for example the main body 12, first rotating body 14, second rotating body 16, cams 22(1) and 22(2), roller and/or fixed elements 24(1) and 24(2), and the line channel insert 36, advantageously may be designed to be modular, to allow for the various elements to be changed out, replaced, or upgraded.
  • the first rotating body 14 and second rotating body 16 can be removed such that a user can use either rotating body independently with the main body 12 for managing friction on a line.
  • the main body 12 includes the first attachment element 18 and the second attachment element 20 located at opposing ends thereof.
  • the first attachment element 18 and the second attachment element 20 are configured to rotatably couple the first rotating body 14 and the second rotating body 16, respectively, to the main body 12, as described in further detail below.
  • the main body 12 serves to connect the first rotating body 14 and the second rotating body 16.
  • the main body 12 is ergonomically shaped to assist in operation of the line climbing device 10 during use, as described below. More specifically, the main body 12 is configured to allow the user to easily grasp portions of the main body 12 while operating the first rotating body 14 in accordance with the present disclosure.
  • first attachment element 18 and the second attachment element 20 control the rotation of the first rotating body 14 and the second rotating body 16, respectively.
  • first rotating body 14 and second rotating body 16 can rotate 180 degrees in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction during operation, as described in further detail below.
  • the first attachment point 18 and the second attachment point 20 are located on the main body 12 to allow for the operation of the line climbing device 10, as described in further detail below.
  • first attachment element 18 and the second attachment element 20 locations are designed to provide pivot points directly related to actuation, movement, and speed of operation of the line climbing device 10.
  • the first attachment element 18 is located on the main body 12 to allow for properly tending the line climbing device 10 for upward flow of a line through the line climbing device 10 and to accommodate the use of a moving line system, by way of example.
  • Rotation of the first rotating body 14 further controls the operation of the cams 22(1) and 22(2) as described in further detail below.
  • the first and second attachment elements 18 and 20 also have a central opening that serves as a secondary attachment point 26 and a primary attachment point 28 for connecting the line climbing device 10 to other devices.
  • a secondary attachment point 26 serves as a secondary attachment point 26 and a primary attachment point 28 for connecting the line climbing device 10 to other devices.
  • the second attachment element 20 provides a primary attachment point 28 that can be used, for example, for self-anchoring on a line, as known in the art.
  • the secondary attachment point 26 can also be used for self-anchoring on a line.
  • the secondary attachment point 26 allows for the use of multiple line systems and can be employed in both moving and stationary line systems.
  • both the first rotating body 14 and second rotating body 16 can rotate upwards, increasing friction on the line, and when a user’s weight is removed from the primary attachment element 28, the first rotating body 14 and second rotating body 16 can rotate downward, removing friction from the line.
  • the line climbing device 200 has a primary attachment point 28 that is positioned in an elongated aperture 56 in the second rotating body 16 having a first end 56-1 and a second end 56-2 and formed through the second rotating body 16, such that a carabiner, clip, or other connector can be connected to the primary attachment point 28.
  • the elongated aperture 56 allows the primary attachment point 28 and second rotating body 16 to move from a first position 16Ato a second position 16B within the elongated aperture 56, which increases the amount of friction applied to the line as the primary attachment point 28 moves from the first position 16A at the first end of the elongated aperture 56-1 to the second position 16B at the second end of the elongated aperture 56-2.
  • the primary attachment point 28 sits in the first position 16 A.
  • the second rotating body 16 In this first position 16A, the second rotating body 16 is in a neutral position and the top portion of the second rotating body 16-1 is positioned away (as compared to position 16B in FIG. IF) from the main body 12 (i.e., rotated clockwise about the primary attachment point 28).
  • This position allows the line positioned between the second rotating body locking mechanism 54 and the moving bollard 84, as described below, to have less of a bend and therefore less friction applied to it (see FIG. 11H).
  • the device 200 When the user is descending a line, the device 200 is weighted and the primary attachment point 28 sits in the second position 16B (FIG. IF).
  • the second rotating body 16 In this second position 16B, the second rotating body 16 is in an increased friction position and the top portion of the second rotating body 16-1 is positioned toward the main body 12 (i.e., rotated counterclockwise about the primary attachment point 28 see also FIG. 11 G).
  • This position causes the line positioned between the second rotating body locking mechanism 54 and the moving bollard 84 to have an increased bend and therefore more friction applied to it, which effectively provides for a safer descent.
  • While a first and second position are discussed above with respect to the second rotating body 16 within the elongated aperture 56, it should be understood that there could be an infinite number of positions within the elongated aperture 56 in which the second rotating body 16 rests depending on a number of variables (e.g., a user’s weight, the diameter of the line, a user’s position on a line, and the climbing line system in use). For example, if User 1 has a greater weight than User 2, the second rotating body 16 may rest at a position closer to the second position 16B for User 2 as compared to User 1.
  • a number of variables e.g., a user’s weight, the diameter of the line, a user’s position on a line, and the climbing line system in use. For example, if User 1 has a greater weight than User 2, the second rotating body 16 may rest at a position closer to the second position 16B for User 2 as compared to User 1.
  • the main body 12 also includes an auxiliary connection point 30 that can be used to provide auxiliary connections during use.
  • the auxiliary connection point 30 could be employed as a connection point for a multiple line system.
  • the auxiliary connection point 30 can be employed as an alternative connection point, for example, when moving around an obstacle that requires disconnection of the device in other locations.
  • the main body 12 can also include an accessory connection point 32 that allows for attaching accessory items to the line climbing device 10.
  • an accessory connection point 32 that allows for attaching accessory items to the line climbing device 10.
  • the main body 12 includes a recessed section 34 that allows for an overall weight reduction of the line climbing device 10.
  • the recessed section 34 also provides for heat reduction by reducing friction of the line against the main body 12 during operation.
  • main body 12 can further include a line channel insert 36 located on an outer edge thereof.
  • the line channel insert 36 assists in aligning the line during use, as described in further detail below, and also guides the line to reduce wear on the main body 12 as a result of use of the line climbing device 10.
  • the line channel insert 36 additionally works to increase or decrease friction within the line climbing device 10, as discussed below.
  • the main body 12 further includes a spring channel 38 integrated within the main body 12 that houses a spring mechanism 40.
  • the spring channel 38 may be encased within the main body 12 to prevent damage or wear on the spring mechanism 40 and to avoid user interaction with the spring mechanism 40 during use.
  • spring mechanism 40 includes a torsion spring 42 coupled to a steel wire 44. Although torsion spring 42 and steel wire 44 are illustrated and described, it is to be understood that other spring mechanisms formed of other materials could be employed.
  • the steel wire 44 can extend around the first attachment element 16, such that the spring mechanism 40 engages the first rotating body 14 to provide a bias against which the first rotating body 14 can be rotated during use.
  • the spring mechanism 40 can be configured to bias the first rotating body 14 back to a neutral position. This can occur after a force (greater than the spring bias force) applied against the first rotating body 14 in a direction towards the main body 12 in a clockwise direction away from the neutral position is removed.
  • the first rotating body 14 is rotatably coupled to the main body 12 at first attachment element 18.
  • the attachment element 18 provides a pivot point that allows for rotation of the first rotating body 14 by the user actuating the first rotating body 14 manually.
  • first rotating body 14 can rotate 180 degrees in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction during operation, as described in further detail below.
  • the rotation of first rotating body 14, in some examples, may be against the bias provided by spring mechanism 40, as described above.
  • the first rotating body 14 is ergonomically shaped to allow a user to rotate the first rotating body 14 in either a clockwise or counterclockwise fashion to control operation of the device, as described in further detail below.
  • the first rotating body 14 is shaped to accommodate the user’s hand during use to rotate the first rotating body 14 to operate the line climbing device 10. This shape also creates an elongated or extended leverage point to help manage the removal of friction on the line. The user can advantageously control the amount of friction applied to a line extending through the line climbing device 10 at all stages of use.
  • the first rotating body 14 includes a pair of plates 46(1) and 46(2) that can be independently rotated on first attachment element 18 to permit access to the internal components of first rotating body 14 as shown in FIG. 1C. This allows for easy installation of the line prior to use.
  • FIGS. 2D-2V these figures describe and illustrate a locking mechanism that allows the plates 46(1) and 46(2) on the first rotating body 14 (i.e., a first rotating body locking mechanism) to be secured to one another after installation of the line, such that the plates 46(1) and 46(2) move as a single unit during rotation of the first rotating body 14.
  • This locking mechanism is capable of being used with all embodiments discussed above and below.
  • the locking mechanism may be a two-way lock including a pin and twist tab, although other locking mechanisms could be employed to secure the plates 46(1) and 46(2) to one another.
  • the first rotating body locking mechanism is a dual-action locking device.
  • the dual action locking device 58 advantageously secures two plates to one another and requires two separate mechanical actions by the user to release the plates, providing a more secure operation.
  • the plate 46(1) on the first rotating body includes a slot 59 located therein to receive a portion of the dual action locking device 58.
  • the plate 46(1) further includes a recessed portion 61 in an upper surface 46(1)’ thereof.
  • the recessed portion 61 is shaped to interact with a portion of the dual action locking device 58, as described below.
  • the plate 46(2) further includes an upper surface 46(2)’ and lower surface 46(2)”.
  • the terms upper and lower are merely used to describe the orientation of the plate 46(2) shown in FIGS. 2E-2F and are not intended to be limiting.
  • the upper surface 46(2)’ includes a recessed portion 63 configured to receive a portion of the dual action locking device 58, as described in further detail below.
  • the lower surface 46(2)” includes an aperture 65 and a tapered portion 67 configured to receive a retention screw of the dual action locking device 58 to secure the locking device to the plate 46(2).
  • a barrel 62 includes a cylindrical body 63 extending between a first end 63’ and a second end 63” along a longitudinal axis.
  • the cylindrical body 63 is configured to be located within the main body 65 of the dual action locking device 58 such that the barrel 62 can rotate within the main body 65 during operation of the dual action locking device 58, as described in further detail below.
  • the cylindrical body 63 includes a neck portion 67 that is configured to be located in the slot 59 of the plate 46(1). Thus, when the plate 46(1) is rotated about the secondary attachment point (not shown) to align with the second plate 46(2), the neck portion 67 of the barrel 62 enters into the slot 59.
  • the barrel 62 further includes a head 69 located at the first end 63’ of the cylindrical body 63.
  • the head 69 and neck 67 portion is located at the first end 63’ of the cylindrical body 63.
  • the neck portion 67 when the neck portion 67 is located in the slot 59 of the first plate 46(1), the head 69 sits within the recessed portion 61 of the first plate 46(1).
  • the head 69 has a tear drop shaped profile that extends to a tip 69’ having a reduced diameter as compared to the main portion of the head 69.
  • the shape of the head 69 is configured to interact with a corresponding recessed portion 61 on the first plate 46(1), as described in further detail below.
  • the tear drop shape is described and illustrated, it is to be understood that other configurations could be used for the head 69 to interact with the recessed portion 61 on the first plate 46(1)’ to provide the dual action locking mechanism of the present disclosure 58.
  • the barrel 62 has a slot 62-1 that extends through the cylindrical body 63.
  • the slot 62-1 is sized to receive the barrel drive pin 68-1 therethrough such that movement of the barrel drive pin 68-1 radially (based on operation of the thimble 60 as described below) with respect to the cylindrical body 63 causes the barrel 62 to rotate within the main body 65.
  • the barrel slot 62- 1 is further sized such that the barrel drive pin 68-1 can move within the slot 62-1 in both directions along the longitudinal axis of the barrel 62 extending between the first end 63’ and the second end 63” of the cylindrical body 63 of the barrel 62.
  • the barrel 62 further includes a groove 71 located proximate to the second end 63 ” of the cylindrical body 63.
  • the groove 71 is configured to receive the retention pin 68-2 therein in order to retain the barrel 62 within the main body 65 and maintain the orientation of the barrel 62 within the main body 65 during use of the dual action locking device 58.
  • the main body 65 of the dual action locking device includes a central aperture 65’ that is configured to receive the barrel 62 therein with the neck portion 67 and the head 69 located outside of the main body 65 as shown, for example, in FIG. 2G.
  • the central aperture 65’ is sized such that the barrel 62 can rotate within the main body 65 during operation of the dual action locking device 58.
  • the main body 65 further includes a slot 66-1 extending therethrough for receiving the barrel drive pin 68-1.
  • the slot 66-1 aligns with the slot in the barrel 62-1 such that the barrel drive pin 68-1 extends through both the main body 65 and the barrel 62.
  • the slot 66-1 is configured to provide a track such that the barrel drive pin 68-1 can move within the slot 66-1 during rotation of the barrel 62 to provide locked and unlocked positions for the dual action locking device 58, as described in further detail below.
  • the slot 66-1 includes a radial portion 73 extending between retention nests 73- 1 and 73-2, although the slot 66-1 can have other configurations in other examples.
  • the retention nests 73-1 and 73-2 each have a semi-circular profile configured to receive the barrel drive pin 68-
  • the retention nest 73-2 has a radius that is larger than a radius of the retention nest 73- 1.
  • the retention nest 73-1 has a profile configured to receive a portion of the barrel drive pin 68-1 that is less than the radius of the barrel drive pin 68-1, while the retention nest 73-
  • the barrel drive pin 68-1 has a profile configured to receive a portion of the barrel drive pin 68-1 that is greater than the radius of the barrel drive pin 68-1.
  • the barrel drive pin 68-1 is biased toward the retention nests 73-1 and 73-2 by operation of the spring 64, as described in further detail below.
  • the larger profile of the retention nest 73-2 requires a greater force to overcome the bias of the spring 46 to move the barrel drive pin 68-1 into the radial portion 73 of the slot 66-1, as described in further detail below.
  • the main body 65 includes a base 66 having a threaded aperture 75.
  • the base 66 is shaped to be inserted into the recessed portion 63 of the upper surface 46(2)’ of the second plate 46(2), as shown in FIG. 2E.
  • the threaded aperture 75 is sized to receive the spring 64 therein such that the spring 64 contacts the barrel drive pin 68-1.
  • the threaded aperture 75 is also configured to receive the retention screw 77 therein.
  • the retention screw 77 is screwed into the threaded aperture 75 to force the spring 64 against the barrel drive pin 68-1 (as shown in FIG. 2K) to provide the bias of the spring 46 on the barrel drive pin 68-1.
  • the main body 65 further includes retention pin apertures
  • the retention pin apertures 66-2 are located on opposing sides of the main body 65.
  • the retention pin apertures 66-2 are located offset from the central axis of the main body 65.
  • the retention pin apertures 66-2 are configured to receive the retention pin 68-2 (FIG. 2K) therein such that the retention pin 68-2 extends between the retention pin apertures 66-2 and passes through the groove 71 of the barrel 62 in order to retain the barrel 62 within the main body 65 and maintain the orientation of the barrel 62 within the main body 65 during use of the dual action locking device 58.
  • the main body 65 further includes an overhang 79 that provides a greater diameter portion of the main body 65. The overhang 79 is configured to meet with the thimble 60 and prevents debris from entering the into the moving parts located within the main body 65, including the barrel 62.
  • FIG. 2P is an isometric view of the retention pin 68-2.
  • the retention pin 68-2 is a cylindrically shaped pin extending between ends 68-2’.
  • the ends 68-2’ of the retention pin 68-2 are configured to be located in the retention pin apertures 66-2 of the main body 65 of the dual action locking device 58, such that the retention pin 68-2 extends through the main body 65 offset from the central axis of the main body 65.
  • the retention pin 68-2 is configured to extend between the retention pin apertures 66-2 and pass through the groove 71 of the barrel 62 in order to retain the barrel 62 within the main body 65 and maintain the orientation of the barrel 62 within the main body 65 during use of the dual action locking device 58.
  • the retention pin 68-2 is formed from stainless steel, although the retention pin 58-2 can be formed of other materials.
  • the thimble 60 has a cylindrical shape and is configured to be located over and surround the main body 65, as shown for example in FIG. 2G.
  • the thimble 60 has a surface 60’ that aligns with the overhang 79 of the main body 65 when the dual action locking device 58 is assembled.
  • the thimble 60 has barrel drive pin apertures 81 located on opposing sides thereof along a central axis of the thimble 60.
  • the barrel drive pin apertures 81 are configured to receive opposing ends of the barrel drive pin 68-1 therein, such that the barrel drive pin 68-1 extends across the thimble 60 and through the slots 62-1 and 66-1 of the barrel 62 and the main body 65, respectively.
  • the thimble 60 in this example includes an outer surface 60’ having a plurality of ridges 60” located thereon.
  • the plurality of ridges 60” allow for a better grip when rotating the thimble 60 during operation of the dual action locating device 58, although the outer surface 60’ of the thimble 60 can have other types and/or numbers of elements to provide for a better gripping surface.
  • the barrel drive pin 68-1 is a cylindrically shaped pin extending between ends 68-1’.
  • the ends 68-1’ are configured to be located in the barrel drive pin apertures 81 of the thimble 60, such that the barrel drive pin 68-1 extends across the thimble 60 of the dual action locking device 58.
  • the barrel drive pin 68-1 is configured to extend between the barrel drive pin apertures 81 and pass through the slots 62-1 and 66-1 of the barrel 62 and the main body 65, respectively.
  • the barrel drive pin 68-1 rotates the barrel 62 when the barrel pin drive pin 68-1 is rotated by operating the thimble 60.
  • the barrel drive pin 68-1 travels along the slot 66-1 in the main body 65 to move the dual action locking device 58 between locked and unlocked positions, as described in further detail below.
  • the barrel drive pin 68-1 is formed from stainless steel, although the retention pin 68-2 can be formed of other materials.
  • the spring 64 is configured to be located in the threaded aperture 75 of the main body 65. As shown in FIG. 2K, the spring 64 is located within the threaded aperture 75 such that the spring 64 contacts the barrel drive pin 68-1. The spring 64 is further configured to contact the retention screw 77 in order to provide a bias force against the barrel drive pin 68-1.
  • the spring 64 is configured to provide enough force to bias the barrel drive pin 68-1 into the retention nests 73(1) and 73(2) in the slot 66-1 of the main body 65 (FIG. 2N) but remain operable by a user to overcome the bias force to move the barrel drive pin 68-1 into the radial portion 73 of the slot 66-1.
  • the spring 64 is configured to provide enough force to bias the barrel drive pin 68-1 into the retention nests 73(1) and 73(2) in the slot 66-1 of the main body 65 (FIG. 2N) but remain operable by a user to overcome the bias force to move the barrel drive pin 68-1 into the radial portion 73 of the slot 66-1.
  • the spring 64 is configured to provide enough force to bias the barrel drive pin 68-1 into the retention nests 73(1) and 73(2) in the slot 66-1 of the main body 65 (FIG. 2N) but remain operable by a user to overcome the bias force to move the barrel drive pin 68-1 into the radial portion 73 of the
  • the spring 64 is a one-inch compression spring, although other types and sizes of springs may be employed.
  • the spring 64 is formed of stainless steel, although the spring 64 may be formed of other types of materials.
  • the spring 64 is contained within the main body
  • the retention screw 77 includes a threaded portion 77(1) and a head 77(2).
  • the threaded portion 77(1) is configured to match and be screwed into the threaded aperture 75 of the main body 65.
  • the threaded portion 77(1) contacts and compresses the spring 64 when tightened to provide a bias force for the spring 64 against the barrel drive pin 68-1.
  • the head 77(2) is configured to be located within the recessed portion 63 of the second plate 46(2) (FIG. 2F) in order to secure the dual action locking device 58 to the line climbing device 10 and such that the retention screw 77 is flush with the second plate 46(2) along the lower surface 46(2)” , although screws having different configurations could be utilized.
  • the dual action locking device 58 is described with respect to the line climbing device 10, it is to be understood that the dual action locking device 58 could be employed in a number of uses where two plates or flanges need to be rotated together into a secured attachment. Thus, the disclosure of the operation of the exemplary dual action locking device 58 with respect to the line climbing device 10, and other line climbing devices, is not intended to be limiting.
  • the base 66 of the main body 65 can be inserted into the recessed portion 63 on the upper surface 46(2)’ of the second plate 46(2) (FIG. 2E).
  • the retention screw 77 can then be inserted through the aperture 65 of the second plate 46(2) and into the threaded aperture 75 of the main body 65 (FIG. 20).
  • the threaded portion 77(1) of the retention screw 77 (FIG. 2K) is used to tighten the retention screw 77 into the threaded aperture 75 to secure the main body 65 of the dual action locking device 58 to the second plate 46(1)”.
  • the head 77(2) of the retention screw 77 is located in the tapered portion 67 located on the lower surface of the second plate 46(2)” such that when assembled, the retention head 72(2) of the retention screw 72 is flush with the lower surface of the second plate 46(2)”.
  • the dual action locking device 58 once secured to the second plate 46(2), is initially in an unlocked position.
  • the first plate 46(1) is rotated about the first attachment element (not shown) such that the neck portion 67 of the barrel 62 enters the slot 59 (FIG. 2D) on the first plate 46(1).
  • the head 69 of the barrel 62 is located in the recessed portion 61 of the first plate 46(1) as shown in FIG. 2V.
  • the head 69 of the barrel 62 must be rotated to align the tip 69’ with the recessed portion 61.
  • the rotation of the tip 69’ into the recessed portion 61 causes the barrel 62 to rotate, which in turn rotates the barrel drive pin 68-1.
  • the rotational force is sufficient to overcome the bias force of the spring 64 to move the barrel drive pin 68-1 from the retention nest 73(1) into the radial portion 73 of the slot 66-1.
  • the barrel 62 is then free to rotate within the main body 65 as the barrel drive pin 68-1 moves across the radial portion 73 of the slot 66-1 and reaches the retention nest 73(2).
  • the bias force of the spring 64 forces the barrel drive pin 68-1 upward into the retention nest 73(2).
  • This provides the locked position of the dual action locking device 58, as shown in FIG. 2U.
  • the deeper profile of the retention nest 73(2) which in this example is greater than the radius of the barrel drive pin 68-1 , prevents the barrel drive pin 68-1 from being moved back to the radial portion 73 of the slot 66-1 based on rotation alone.
  • the dual action locking device 58 secures the first plate 46(1) to the second plate 46(2).
  • a user In order to unlock the dual action locking device 58, a user must apply a downward force on the thimble 60 sufficient to overcome the bias force of the spring 64. While still applying the downward force, the user must then rotate the thimble 60, pushing the barrel drive pin 68-1 out of the retention nest 73(2) (i.e., dual action). The combination and sequential steps of the downward force and then the rotation moves the barrel drive pin 68-1 down into the radial portion 73 of the slot 66-1. The barrel 62 is then rotated such that the head 69 is rotated out of the recessed portion 61 of the first plate 46(1). The barrel drive pin 68-1, after sufficient rotation, is forced back into the retention nest 73(1) by the bias force of the spring 64 to retain the locking device in the unlocked position (shown in FIG. 2T).
  • the present disclosure provides a locking device that can be utilized to secure a first plate to a second plate.
  • the locking device advantageously requires dual action, in the form of two separate mechanical movements, in order to unlock the device.
  • the locking device advantageously provides for a more secure attachment between the two plates.
  • the locking device can be utilized in a number of applications that require securing two plates or flanges together. Further, the locking device advantageously can be operated without the use of a separate tool or tools.
  • Plate 46(2) includes the cams 22(1) and 22(2) located thereon.
  • cams 22(1) and 22(2) are formed using plate steel or sheet metal that is riveted or welded together to provide for a stepped design of the cams 22(1) and 22(2), although the cams 22(1) and 22(2) can be formed in other manners to provide other configurations.
  • cams 22(1) and 22(2) are located on stanchions 48(1) and 48(2), respectively, that are secured to the plate 46(2) of the first rotating body 14, although other configurations may be employed to secure the cams 22(1) and 22(2) to plate 46(2) in a rotatable manner.
  • the cams 22(1) and 22(2) are secured to the plate 46(2) on hexagonal bases 70 with a common industrial screw with a Nylok® patch. These hexagonal bases 70 work to prevent the screw from spinning while the device 10 is in use.
  • the Nylok® patch can prevent the vibration of the line climbing device 10 from dislodging the cams 22(1) and 22(2).
  • cams 22(1) and 22(2) can pivot, rotate, or toggle independently or together to allow the line to pass through on a radius in certain configurations to provide a desired amount of friction on the line during use, as described more fully below.
  • the movable cams 22(1) and 22(2) can rotate to produce friction as a result of the rotation of the first rotating body 14 and the second rotating body 16.
  • the articulating cams 22(1) and 22(2) can provide specific pressure or pinch points on the line during use.
  • the line climbing device 10 can include multiple sheeves that are either movable, fixed, or a combination thereof in addition to the cams 22(1) and 22(2) that provide additional assistance for the line to move or to be stopped during use.
  • a cam stop 72 is coupled to the plate 46(2) to remove friction when the tail end of a line is pulled through the device 10 when it is not weighted with a user. This prevents the over rotation of the cams 22(1) and 22(2) when pulling the tail end of a line to prevent potential friction from being added to the line.
  • cams 22(1) and 22(2) include line channels 50(1) and 50(2) on the respective surfaces thereof that face toward the line during use of the line climbing device 10.
  • the line channels 50(1) and 50(2) provide a valley shaped section with respect to the longitudinal axis of the cams 22(1) and 22(2) that serve to increase friction on the line and to channel debris from the line into the lowest point of the line channels 50(1) and 50(2) to reduce wear, extend the life of the line and the cams 22(1) and 22(2), and prevent functional issues during use.
  • the valley shape and angle(s) of the walls provides a range of modular friction for use on a wide range of different line diameters, including but not limited to lines that range from 10mm to 13mm.
  • the valley shaped section and angles of the walls of the cams 22(1) and 22(2) allow for the device 10 to be self-adjusting to accommodate lines of different diameters without the need to make adjustments to the device 10. For example, lines with larger diameters focus friction on the widest portion of the valley of the line channels 50(1) and 50(2), while lines with smaller diameters focus friction within the narrowest portion of the valley of the line channels 50(1) and 50(2).
  • the valley shape also allows a user to remove a line from the device 10 even if the plates 46(1) and 46(2) are in the unlocked position, unlike conventional devices, as explained below.
  • the line channels 50(1) and 50(2) have side walls 50(1)’ and 50(2)’ angled at a range of 10 degrees to 90 degrees.
  • the line channels 50(1) and 50(2) are locked behind a dowel pin (not shown) or other similar keeper which allows for the line channels 50(1) and 50(2) to be replaced, as the friction from the line can cause wear on the line channels 50(1) and 50(2).
  • cams 22(1) and 22(2) allow for a user to separate the plates 52(1) and 52(2) of the second rotating body 16 and move the moving bollard 84 to adjust for different sized lines or to accommodate different climbing configurations (e.g., single rope technique or moving rope system/double rope technique), as known in the art and described below, without needing to separate the plates 46(1) and 46(2) of the first rotating body 14.
  • This allows a user to adjust from a single line system to a multi-line system, or vice versa, mid- air without having to return to the ground or disconnect the life support connection, as known in the art.
  • the second rotating body 16 is rotatably coupled to the main body 12 at second attachment element 20.
  • the second rotating body 16 includes a pair of plates 52(1) and 52(2) that can be independently rotated on second attachment element 20 to permit access to the internal components of second rotating body 16 as shown in FIG. ID. This allows for easy installation of a line prior to use.
  • Plate 52(2) includes roller and/or fixed elements 24(1) and 24(2) located thereon.
  • roller and/or fixed elements 24(1) and 24(2) can be bollards, sheeves, rollers, or cams, although other types of elements could be utilized to provide the desired functionality of the line climbing device 10.
  • roller and/or fixed elements 24(1) and 24(2) are illustrated and described, it is to be understood that multiple bollards, sheeves, or rollers could be utilized on the second rotating body 16 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.
  • the roller and/or fixed elements 24(1) and 24(2) guide the line and alter the radial path thereof based on rotation of the first rotating body 14 and the second rotating body 16, as described in further detail below.
  • the second rotating body 16 includes a second rotating body locking mechanism 54 that can be used to secure the second rotating body plates 52(1) and 52(2) during use of the line climbing device 10.
  • the second rotating body locking mechanism 54 includes an integrated button mechanism with a spring “plunger” that allows for the opening and closing of the second rotating body 16, although other locking mechanisms may be employed.
  • the locking mechanism 54 is associated with the roller and/or fixed element 24(2), although other configurations may be employed.
  • the second rotating body locking mechanism 54 secures the roller and/or fixed elements 24(1) and 24(2) within plates 52(1) and 52(2) and prevents separation during use.
  • the second rotating body locking mechanism 54 includes an integrated button 76 and has a button release base 78, a lower button spring 80, and an extended tip set screw 82.
  • the button 76 is positioned over the top of the lower button spring 80 and the extended tip set screw 82.
  • the extended tip set screw 82 is positioned within and extends to the base 78 and the button 76.
  • the lower button spring 80 is positioned inside the button 76 and the base 78 fits over the button 76 and the lower button spring 80, with the extended tip set screw 82 positioned inside the base 78.
  • the second rotating body locking mechanism 54 secures the moving bollard 84 described below within the plates 52(1) and 52(2) of the second rotating body 16 and prevents separation during use.
  • the plate 51(1) has an angular receiving pocket 74 that holds the second rotating body locking mechanism 54 in place while the plates 52(1) and 52(2) are in the locked position and keeps the plates 52(1) and 52(2) from separating.
  • a user can press on the button 76 to separate the plates 52(1) and 52(2) of the second rotating body 16.
  • the extended tip set screw 82 is a common industrial screw.
  • FIGS. 5A and 5C illustrate two different positions for the line climbing device 10 during use.
  • FIGS. 5B and 5D correspond to FIGS. 5 A and 5C, respectively, and illustrate the first rotating body 14 and second rotating body 16 in open positions to illustrate the operation of the cams 22(1) and 22(2) and roller and/or fixed elements 24(1) and 24(2).
  • FIGS. 5B and 5D illustrate the impact of those elements on the bend radius (and/or the pinching/squeezing force) of the line as it passes through the line climbing device 10 with respect to different positions of the first rotating body 14 and the second rotating body 16.
  • two positions are illustrated, it is to be understood that the first rotating body 14 and the second rotating body 16 can be rotated to a number of different positions to impact the amount of friction applied to a line extending through the line climbing device 10.
  • a line can be inserted within the line climbing device 10 such that the line extends through one of either of the rotating bodies, or through both the first rotating body 14 and the second rotating body 16. More specifically, as shown for example in FIGS. 5B and 5D, the line extends through the roller and/or fixed elements 24(1) and 24(2) in the second rotating body 16 and the cams 22(1) and 22(2) in the first rotating body 14.
  • the line climbing device 10 can advantageously be utilized with various sizes of line.
  • the line climbing device 10 can further be employed with single or multiple line systems, as known in the art, for climbing.
  • the first rotating body 14 is closed using the dual action locking device 58, as described above, and the second rotating body 16 is closed using the second rotating body locking mechanism 54.
  • roller and/or fixed elements 24(1) and 24(2) are secured within plates 52(1) and 52(2) and cams 22(1) and 22(2) are secured between plates 46(1) and 46(2) during use.
  • the user can attach to the line climbing device 10 through the primary attachment point 28, for example, using a carabiner, clip, or other connector. Attachment of the user to the secondary attachment point 26 provides an anchored load on the line climbing device 10 during use. The anchored load forces the first rotating body 14 to rotate to increase the friction based on the bend radius (and/or pinching/squeezing force) through the path of the line, as illustrated in FIGS. 6C and 6D, and provide a locked position.
  • the user can then operate the line climbing device 10 by rotating the first rotating body 14.
  • the user can rotate the first rotating body 14 to, for example, the position illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B, in which the radial bends (and/or pinching/squeezing force) along the line are minimized or removed to allow the line climbing device 10 to be moved along the line during climbing.
  • This is the least amount of friction position, i.e., aposition with a least amount of friction applied by the device against the line.
  • the user during operation can then rotate the first rotating body 14 to provide friction control, based on the amount of radial bend applied to the line, to control acceleration and deceleration more gradually when using the line climbing device 10.
  • the cam device 22(2) is articulated to increase the distance between the surfaces of cam devices 22(1) and 22(2) and to decrease the bend radius (and/or pinching/squeezing force) on the line in order to decrease friction on the line extending therethrough to increase flow of the line. This allows the user to move either up or down along the line. However, if the user over rotates the first rotating body 14 in the clockwise direction, the cam devices 22(1) 22(2) are configured to decrease the flow to provide an anti-panic function.
  • the rotation of the second rotating body 16 in the clockwise direction adjusts the line’s positioning within the roller and/or fixed elements 24(1) and 24(2) and with respect to the first rotating body 14, additionally decreasing friction on the line extending therethrough.
  • the cam device 22(2) is articulated to decrease the distance between the surfaces of cam devices 22(1) and 22(2) to increase the bend radius (and/or pinching/squeezing force) on the line in order to increase friction on the line extending therethrough to decrease flow of the line.
  • the rotation of the second rotating body 16 in the counterclockwise direction adjusts the line’s positioning within the roller and/or fixed elements 24(1) and 24(2) and with respect to the first rotating body 14, additionally increasing friction on the line extending therethrough.
  • the rotation of the first rotating body 14 and second rotating body 16 allows for great control over the amount of friction applied to the line during use.
  • the line climbing device 200 includes the main body 12 as described above and further includes a moving bollard 84 and the dual action locking device and second rotating body locking mechanisms 58 and 54, respectively, as described above.
  • the cam devices 22(1) and 22(2) as described above provide a path, with the moving bollard 84 and the second rotating body locking mechanism 54, for a line to extend through the line climbing device 200.
  • the rotation of the first rotating body 14 and second rotating body 16 with respect to the main body 12 increases or decreases friction on the line during use.
  • the moving bollard 84 includes a bollard plunger 86, a bollard sheeve 88, a bollard anchor 90, a compression spring 92, and a retention screw 94.
  • the compression spring 92 is configured to fit over the bollard anchor 90 and the bollard anchor 90 is configured to house the retention screw 94.
  • the bollard plunger 86 fits over the retention screw 94, compression spring 92, and anchor 90.
  • the bollard body 96 fits over the compression spring 92, anchor 90, and bottom half of the bollard plunger 86.
  • the bollard sheeve 88 fits over and is rotatably coupled to the bollard body 96.
  • the retention screw 94 is a common industrial screw.
  • a user can alter the line climbing device 200 to accommodate a line or lines of a different diameter and/or different line climbing systems (e.g., single rope technique or moving rope system) quickly and without needing to use tools.
  • a user can place their fingers on the bollard sheeve 88 and use their thumb to push down on the plunger 86, causing the compression spring 92 to force the bollard plunger 86 off of the main body 12 in the first resting position 90 A, as shown in FIG. 6D, and displace the anchor 90.
  • the anchor 90 Once the anchor 90 is hovering above the first resting position 90A, the user can slide the anchor 90 to a second resting position 90B, as shown in FIG.
  • the user can push down on the bollard plunger 86 and slide the anchor 90 to hover over the first resting position 90A and release it until the compression spring 92 pulls the anchor 90 back into the first resting position 90A in the recessed alcove 98 in the plate 52 (1).
  • the retention screw 94 holds together the components of the moving bollard 84.
  • the anchor 90 in the first resting position 90A is used to accommodate a moving line system or a double line system.
  • the anchor 90 in the second resting position 90B is used to accommodate a single line system or a fixed line system.
  • the device 200 is capable of switching between a moving and stationary rope system without needing to add an accessory, use a different device, or use tools.
  • the anchor 90 in the first resting position 90A is used to reduce friction on a line
  • the anchor 90 in the second resting position 90B is used to increase friction on a line. While two resting positions are discussed, several positions have been contemplated to accommodate lines of varying sizes.
  • FIG. 8 an embodiment of the line climbing device 200 is shown with the plates 46(1) and 52(1) removed for illustration purposes.
  • FIGS. 9A-9C photographs of the device in use are shown.
  • the device 200 is in a neutral position while the climber ascends the line.
  • the climber is attached to the device at the primary attachment point 28 and the line is passing through the cams 22(1) and 22(2) and between the moving bollard 84 and second rotating body locking mechanism 54.
  • the second rotating body 16 is in the first position 16A in the elongated aperture 56 and there is reduced friction on the line, allowing the device 200 to move up the line with the climber. See also FIG. 8.
  • the climber is descending the line and the device 200 is reducing friction on the line.
  • the climber is pulling the first rotating body 14 down and toward the second rotating body 16, which rotates the cams 22(1) and 22(2) in a way that the line channels 50(1) and 50(2) become less narrow, which allows the line to slide through the cams 22(1) and 22(2) with less resistance.
  • the amount of friction applied to the line in this position is enough to allow the climber to descend the line without causing the climber to freefall.
  • FIGS. 10A - 10E an alternative embodiment of the line climbing device 300 is shown.
  • the first attachment point as previously described is replaced with a fixed pivot point 100 to prevent a carabiner or other connecting mechanism from being pinched between the plates 46(1) and 46(2).
  • the line climbing device 300 has a side body 102 that can include an auxiliary connection point 30-1 that can be used to provide auxiliary connections during use and an accessory connection point 32-1 that allows for attaching accessory items to the line climbing device 300.
  • the positioning of the auxiliary connection point 30-1 and accessory connection point 32-1 on the side body 102 allows for more space for an attachment device to connect with the line climbing device 300, such as a carabiner and the like.
  • the auxiliary connection point 30-1 and accessory connection point 32-1 are illustrated and described, it is to be understood that the line climbing device 300 could include other connection points in other configurations depending on the use of the line climbing device 300.
  • the side body 102 can include a recessed section 34-1 that allows for an overall weight reduction of the line climbing device 300.
  • the recessed section 34-1 also provides for heat reduction by reducing friction of the line against the side body 102 during operation.
  • the main body 12 further includes a line channel insert 36 that can be removable from the main body 12.
  • the line channel insert 36 is locked behind one or more dowel pins 36 (not shown), or other similar keepers, which allows for the line channel insert 36 to be replaced, as the friction from the line can cause wear, as explained above.
  • the line channel insert 36 is permanently coupled to the main body 12.
  • a spring mechanism 40- 1 is housed internally within the plates 46 (1) and 46 (2) to allow the first rotating body 14 to rotate during use. This can allow the device 300 to slow down and stop a user more efficiently while descending a line and prevent debris from being caught within the device 300.
  • the spring mechanism 40-1 can further include a torsion spring 42-1, a driven tail 104, a radial travel pocket 106, a static or anchor torsion spring tail 108, and a retention pocket 110.
  • the spring mechanism 40-1 is not compressed and does not provide a bias against the first rotating body 14.
  • the spring mechanism 40-1 When the first rotating body 14 is rotated clockwise about the fixed pivot point 100 and away from a neutral position, the spring mechanism 40-1 provides a bias against the first rotating body 14, causing it to “spring back” into the neutral or relaxed position once the downward force on the first rotating body 14 is no longer present, as described above.
  • the driven tail of the torsion spring 104 is in the relaxed position within the radial travel pocket 106 of the main body 12 and the static or anchor torsion spring tail 108 is positioned within the retention pocket 110.
  • the shape of the first rotating body 14 and second rotating body 16 has been altered to provide a more ergonomic shape.
  • the nose portion 14’ of the first rotating body 14 is raised to create more leverage while the device 300 is in use and allow the user to break friction, or travel down the line due to the gravitational force of a user’s weight in the device, more efficiently.
  • FIGS. 10D - 10E an alternative embodiment of the moving bollard 84-1 is depicted.
  • a sealed bearing 112 is housed internal to the moving bollard 84-1 to help the bollard sheeve 88-1 spin more efficiently and reduce friction.
  • ball bearings 114 or oil impregnated bronze bearings can be used within the sealed bearing 112 to reduce friction while in use.
  • the bollard sheeve 88-1 can be moved on an axis upward on the second rotating body 16 and the diameter of the bollard sheeve 88-1 and bollard anchor 90-1 can be increased relative to the description provided above, allowing for a larger bend radius for a line.
  • the first rotating body 14 of the line climbing device 300 can be 2.43 inches tall and 4.73 inches long.
  • the second rotating body 16 of the line climbing device 300 can be 2.32 inches tall and 3.78 inches wide.
  • FIGS. 11D and 11E illustrate the line climbing device 300 within a moving line configuration setup or system while unconnected to a user (FIG. 11D) and connected to a user (FIG. HE).
  • FIGS. 1 IF and 11G illustrate the line climbing device 300 within a single rope configuration setup or system while unconnected to a user (FIG. 1 IF) and connected to a user
  • FIG. 11H illustrates the accessory connection point of the line climbing device 300 being used as attending point connected to a user to aid in gliding or pulling the line climbing device 300 up a line while the user ascends the line.
  • FIGS. Ill and 11 J friction is being released or broken by a user by pulling down on the first rotating body.
  • FIG. 1 II a single line configuration is used
  • FIG. 11 J a moving line configuration is used.
  • FIG. 11K illustrates a user actuating the dual action locking device of the line climbing device 300 to unlock the plates.
  • FIGS. 11L and 11M a user removing the line from the line climbing device 300 is illustrated.
  • the line is being secured by the cams, as described above.
  • the cams are shaped in a way that creates two offset angles 22’ that act as a line locking or capturing mechanism, also known as Rope Capture TechnologyTM.
  • the cams are rotated in a way that the two angles 22’ become closer, which locks or secures the line between the two cams.
  • a method or device that “comprises”, “has”, “includes” or “contains” one or more steps or elements Likewise, a step of method or an element of a device that “comprises”, “has”, “includes” or “contains” one or more features possesses those one or more features but is not limited to possessing only those one or more features. Furthermore, a device or structure that is configured in a certain way is configured in at least that way but may also be configured in ways that are not listed.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
  • Emergency Management (AREA)
  • Pulmonology (AREA)
  • Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
  • Pivots And Pivotal Connections (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un dispositif d'escalade sur ligne et un dispositif de verrouillage à double action. Le dispositif d'escalade sur ligne comprend un corps principal. Un premier corps rotatif est accouplé rotatif au corps principal et comporte une paire de cames d'articulation situées à l'intérieur de celui-ci. Un deuxième corps rotatif est couplé au corps principal et comporte un ou plusieurs éléments fixes et/ou à rouleaux situés à l'intérieur de celui-ci. Le premier corps rotatif et le deuxième corps rotatif sont configurés pour recevoir une ligne le long d'un trajet le long de l'élément rouleau et entre la paire de cames d'articulation, de sorte que la rotation des premier et deuxième corps rotatifs dans une première direction augmente le frottement sur la ligne et la rotation des premier et deuxième corps rotatifs dans une deuxième direction diminue le frottement sur la ligne pendant l'utilisation. Un dispositif de verrouillage à double action fixe la première plaque à la deuxième plaque du dispositif d'escalade sur ligne.
PCT/US2024/019153 2023-03-08 2024-03-08 Dispositif d'escalade sur ligne et de verrouillage à double action Pending WO2024187123A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (8)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US202363489069P 2023-03-08 2023-03-08
US63/489,069 2023-03-08
US202363460645P 2023-04-20 2023-04-20
US63/460,645 2023-04-20
US202363602215P 2023-11-22 2023-11-22
US63/602,215 2023-11-22
US202463618650P 2024-01-08 2024-01-08
US63/618,650 2024-01-08

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WO2024187123A1 true WO2024187123A1 (fr) 2024-09-12

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Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5076400A (en) * 1989-05-19 1991-12-31 Petzl Sa Self-jamming safety device for a rope
EP0694317A2 (fr) * 1994-06-28 1996-01-31 Gemini Plastics Machinery Ltd Dispositif de freinage de voie à commande manuelle
US5597052A (en) * 1995-08-15 1997-01-28 Rogleja; Boris Descender
US20020112917A1 (en) * 2000-11-02 2002-08-22 Ador Bernard R. Personal safety device for a vertical rope
US20140262610A1 (en) * 2013-03-14 2014-09-18 Black Diamond Equipment, Ltd. Systems for Assisted Braking Belay with a Lever Disengagement Mechanism
US20170021231A1 (en) * 2015-07-21 2017-01-26 Merritt Arboreal Design, Inc. On-rope work positioning device
US20180008844A1 (en) * 2016-07-11 2018-01-11 Great Trango Holdings, Inc. Belay device
US20200164232A1 (en) * 2018-11-28 2020-05-28 Zedel Belay device

Patent Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5076400A (en) * 1989-05-19 1991-12-31 Petzl Sa Self-jamming safety device for a rope
EP0694317A2 (fr) * 1994-06-28 1996-01-31 Gemini Plastics Machinery Ltd Dispositif de freinage de voie à commande manuelle
US5597052A (en) * 1995-08-15 1997-01-28 Rogleja; Boris Descender
US20020112917A1 (en) * 2000-11-02 2002-08-22 Ador Bernard R. Personal safety device for a vertical rope
US20140262610A1 (en) * 2013-03-14 2014-09-18 Black Diamond Equipment, Ltd. Systems for Assisted Braking Belay with a Lever Disengagement Mechanism
US20170021231A1 (en) * 2015-07-21 2017-01-26 Merritt Arboreal Design, Inc. On-rope work positioning device
US20180008844A1 (en) * 2016-07-11 2018-01-11 Great Trango Holdings, Inc. Belay device
US20200164232A1 (en) * 2018-11-28 2020-05-28 Zedel Belay device

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