GB2372460A

GB2372460A - Climbing device

Info

Publication number: GB2372460A
Application number: GB0201826A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Harry Crawford
Original assignee: Dunn and Cowe Ltd
Current assignee: Dunn and Cowe Ltd
Priority date: 2001-01-27
Filing date: 2002-01-28
Publication date: 2002-08-28
Also published as: GB0201826D0; GB0102140D0

Abstract

A fall arresting/climbing device 14 comprises a flexible elongate member 26 for substantially encircling the pole 12, which is urged to grip the pole 12 and which has a first and a second end portion 34,36, each of said end portions carrying a respective handle 30, the handles 30 adapted to be coupled to a user; at least one pole engaging element 28 coupled to the flexible member 26 for engaging the pole 12 to restrain the device 14 against axial movement therealong, the handles 30 being adapted to be gripped by the user 10 to allow the flexible member 26 to be released from the pole 12, and to disengage the engaging element 28 and allow axial movement of the device 14 along the pole 12 to a new position; and a tensioning element 32 coupled to the flexible member 26. The tensioning element 32 urges the flexible member 26 to grip the pole 12, such that, in the event of a fall, a force is applied from a harness 22 worn by the user, through the handles 30 to the flexible member 26 and the engaging element 28, to engage the pole 12 and to arrest the fall.

Description

CLIMBING DEVICE The present invention relates to a climbing device.

In particular, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to a climbing aid device for assisting in climbing up and down a pole and to a fall arresting device for use by a pole climber.

It is well known to supply electricity cross-country by stringing electrical cables on supporting timber poles. In the event that maintenance or repair work to the cables or any of the associated components carried by the pole is required, a workman must climb up the pole to carry out the work. In the past, this was achieved using so-called"leg irons"and a"pole-strap". The pole strap was secured to a harness worn by the workman and passed around the pole to be climbed. The leg irons include hooks or barbs for engaging the pole. With this equipment, the workman climbed the pole by looping the pole strap around the pole and securing it to the harness, engaging the leg irons into the pole, raising the pole-strap, leaning back to tension the strap and moving his feet upwardly, one by one, to disengage the leg irons and then re-engage them in the pole higher up.

The workman then straightened his legs and the pole-strap was then again raised, allowing the operation to be repeated until the workman reached a desired location on the pole. A similar procedure was performed in reverse for climbing down the pole.

However, unfortunately, this procedure has been

found to be unsafe according to modern health and safety rules in many countries around the world. In particular, in the event that the leg irons become disengaged from the pole, there is nothing to prevent the user from falling to ground. At the very least, the workman may fall some distance down the pole before being able to reengage the leg irons, and is likely to be injured by coming into contact with the pole and sliding along its length.

To address this problem, climbing aids have been developed such as disclosed in US Patent No. 4, 595, 078 which assists a workman in climbing a pole. The device comprises a rigid angled bracket carrying at each end handles which both allow a workman to grip the device, and which couples the device to a pole. The handles are spring biassed into engagement with the pole to be climbed and carry barbed"gaffs"at an end of the handle near that which is gripped by the user. The gaffs include a number of angled barbs adapted to engage the pole and which are rotatable to allow secure engagement with the pole.

However, the device of US 4,595, 078 suffers from disadvantages; it is relatively heavy, bulky, expensive to manufacture, it includes a number of complex and expensive interacting mechanical components and it requires regular maintenance.

It is amongst the objects of embodiments of the present invention to obviate or mitigate at least one of

the foregoing disadvantages.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a fall arresting device for use in climbing up and down a pole, the device comprising a flexible elongate member for substantially encircling the pole and being urged to grip the pole, the flexible member having a first and a second end portion, each of said end portions carrying a respective handle element, the handle elements being adapted to be coupled to a user; at least one pole engaging element coupled to the flexible member for engaging the pole to restrain the device against axial movement therealong, the handle elements being adapted to be gripped by a user to allow the flexible member to be released from the pole, and to disengage the engaging element and allow axial movement of the device along the pole to a new position; and a tensioning element coupled to the flexible member, to urge the flexible member to grip the pole; whereby, in use and in the event of a fall, a force is applied by the user through the handle elements to the flexible member and the engaging element, to engage the pole and to arrest the fall.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a climbing aid device for use in climbing up and down a pole, the device comprising a flexible elongate member for substantially encircling the pole and being urged to grip the pole, the flexible member having a first and a second end portion, each of

said end portions carrying a respective handle element, the handle elements being adapted to be coupled to a user; at least one pole engaging element coupled to the flexible member for engaging the pole to restrain the device against axial movement therealong, the handle elements being adapted to be gripped by a user to allow the flexible member to be released from the pole, and to disengage the engaging element and allow axial movement of the device along the pole to a new position; and a tensioning element coupled to the flexible member, to urge the flexible member to grip the pole.

Advantageously, the present invention may provide a device for use in climbing up and down a pole which may both serve to restrain a fall from the pole of a user of the device and to act as a climbing aid for the user. It will be understood that the flexible elongate member of the device is urged by the tensioning element to grip the pole such that the device is secured to the pole, to restrain the fall of a user coupled to the device, and to act as a climbing aid, by providing a secure platform which the user may be coupled to and may grasp by the handle elements of the device, to assist in climbing a pole.

The handle elements may be adapted to receive a coupling strap which is in turn coupled to the user, in particular to a harness worn by the user, and in the event of a fall, the force may be applied from the user's harness. Alternatively, the handle elements may be

adapted to receive part of a harness coupled to the user.

The handle elements may be adapted to be connected directly or via an intermediate element such as a pole strap to part of a harness coupled to the user.

In one embodiment the device may be adjustable to accommodate poles of different diameters. In particular, the flexible member of the device may be adjustable in length for substantially encircling and gripping poles of different diameters. The flexible member may include couplings for receiving the handles to define an effective length of flexible member therebetween, for encircling and gripping the pole. The couplings may be spaced along the length of the flexible member, and may take the form of loops for receiving a part of the handle elements. It will be understood that, in this fashion, when the handle elements are coupled to the flexible member, the end portions of the flexible member are the parts of the member which carry the handle elements. The device may therefore be adjustable in that the effective length of the flexible member may be adjusted to suit a pole of a particular diameter and, therefore, circumference.

The flexible member may be resilient.

Advantageously, the flexible member may therefore be urged at least in part to grip the pole by the inherent resilience of the material of the flexible member.

Further advantageously, the resilience of the flexible member may allow it to readily encircle and grip poles

having different diameters.

The flexible member may comprise a fabric material.

In particular, the flexible member may comprise a length of fabric material, of single thickness or preferably formed of at least a double material thickness along at least part of a length of the flexible member. The flexible member may be formed by folding a length of fabric material into at least two lengths and securing the fabric lengths to each other. Alternatively, the flexible member may be formed by securing separate lengths of fabric material to each other. The fabric lengths may be secured to one another to define a flexible member of curved profile. The fabric material may comprise, for example, a polyester or polyamide (Nylon TM) webbing material or any other suitable material. Conveniently, the fabric lengths are secured together by stitching. The end portions of the flexible member may include loops formed in the flexible member to accommodate the handles, or by other suitable means.

In a further alternative, the flexible member may be formed of a single length of fabric material of a single thickness. Loops may be formed at intervals along the length of the fabric material to accommodate the handles.

In an alternative embodiment, the flexible member may comprise a strip of a substantially non-fabric material. The flexible member may comprise a plastics material or an insulated metal, for example a plastics covered metal. Coupling members such as brackets, loops

and the like may be provided as separate components, for coupling to the strip, to receive the handles.

It will be understood that the flexible member may be urged to grip the pole primarily by the tension of the tensioning element. However, this may alternatively be achieved by a combination of inherent resilience of the flexible member and by tension of the tensioning element.

The tensioning element may comprise an elastic rope coupled to the flexible member. The tensioning element may be coupled to the end portions of the flexible member. Preferably though, the tensioning element is coupled to the handle elements of the device.

Advantageously, the tensioning element, in use, acts to urge the flexible member to grip the pole by urging the first and second end portions of the flexible member towards one another. It will be understood that this particularly advantageously allows the device of the present invention to be utilised with a variety of poles of different diameters, with variations in the pole diameters being accommodated by inherent elasticity of the tensioning element. The tensioning element may further comprise a handle engaging element coupled to each end of the elastic rope, for coupling the elastic rope to the handle elements of the device.

Alternatively, the elastic rope may be looped at either end thereof for coupling to the flexible member or the handle elements. The handle engaging elements may comprise shaped couplings which engage an elastic rope of

the tensioning element to secure the rope to the handle elements. It will be understood that this is advantageous in that this provides a full working length of the elastic rope between the end portions of the flexible member.

The device may be adapted to receive a coupling strap or any other suitable separate member for coupling the user to the device, or the device may be provided with an integral coupling strap.

Preferably, at least two pole engaging elements are provided spaced along the flexible member. This may advantageously provide secure engagement with a pole by providing a device wherein the engaging elements are spaced around the flexible member, and therefore around a circumference of the pole, in use. The pole engaging element may comprise a separate element for coupling to the flexible member. Conveniently, the pole engaging element includes an engaging tooth for engaging the pole, although preferably, the pole engaging element includes at least two spaced engaging teeth. Conveniently, the pole engaging element includes a bracket carrying the engaging tooth or teeth. The pole engaging element may be secured to the flexible member by nut and bolt assemblies, adhesive, rivets or the like.

The at least one pole engaging element may be fixed to the flexible member, or may be releasable or movably mounted on the flexible member. This may allow the position of the at least one pole engaging element on the

flexible member to be adjusted. The at least one pole engaging element may alternatively be coupled to a handle element or any other suitable part of the device.

In a further alternative arrangement, where the flexible member comprises a substantially solid nonfabric member, the flexible member may include an integral pole engaging element.

Conveniently, the handle elements are adapted to be both gripped by a user and to receive a coupling strap for securing the user to the device. The handle elements may comprise a first handle part adapted to be gripped by the user and a second handle part for receiving the coupling strap.

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 is a general perspective illustration of a user climbing a pole using a climbing device of the present invention; Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a climbing device in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, such as that shown in Fig. 1, shown in a first configuration; Figs. 3A and 3B are front and plan views, respectively, of a flexible member forming part of the climbing device of Fig. 2; Figs. 4A and 4B are views of the flexible member similar to those of Figs. 3A and 3B, but showing the

flexible member carrying two pole engaging elements in the form of gaffs ; Figs. 5A and 5B are front and plan views, respectively, of a handle element of the climbing device shown in Fig. 2; Figs. 6A and 6B are front and plan views, respectively, of a choke of the climbing device shown in Fig. 2; Figs. 7A to 7C are front, side and plan views, respectively, of part of a gaff such as that shown in Figs. 4A and 4B; Figs. 8A and 8B are front and side views, respectively, of a backing plate forming part of the gaff shown in Figs. 4A and 4B; Figs. 9A and 9B are front and plan views, respectively, of a gaff spacer forming part of the gaff shown in Figs. 4A and 4B; Figs. 10 and 11 are views of the climbing device of Fig. 2 shown in second and third configurations, respectively; Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a climbing device in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 13 is a plan view of the climbing device of Fig. 12, shown including a tensioning element; Fig. 14 is a plan view of a flexible member forming part of the climbing device of Fig. 12; Figs. 15A and 15B are front and plan views,

respectively, of a handle element forming part of the climbing device shown in Fig. 12 ; Fig. 16A is a front view of a tensioning element forming part of the climbing device shown in Fig. 12 ; Figs. 16B and 16C are views of a protective sleeve for the tensioning element and part of the tensioning element shown in Fig. 16A, respectively; Figs. 17 and 18 are perspective views of climbing devices in accordance with alternative embodiments of the present invention, similar to the device shown in Fig.

12; Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a climbing device in accordance with a further alternative embodiment of the present invention, similar to the device of Fig. 12, and shown in use; Fig. 20A is a perspective view of a climbing device in accordance with a further alternative embodiment of the present invention, similar to those shown in Figs. 12 to 19 ; Figs. 20B and 20C are front and plan views, respectively, of a flexible member forming part of the climbing device of Fig. 20A ; Fig. 20D is a view of a tensioner forming part of the climbing device of Fig. 20A, drawn to a larger scale, and Fig. 21 is a perspective view of a climbing device in accordance with a further alternative embodiment of the present invention, similar to the device of Fig. 12,

and shown in use.

Referring firstly to Fig. 1, there is shown a general perspective illustration of a user 10 climbing a pole 12 using a climbing device in the form of a fall arresting device/climbing aid device of the present invention, indicated generally by reference numeral 14.

The pole 12 to be climbed by the user 10 is typically a pole of the type used to carry power cables cross-country and normally comprises a timber pole. The pole 12 carries an insulated power cable 16 in a fashion known in the art.

As will be described in more detail below, the user 10 climbs the pole 12 using the device 14 in conjunction with spiked attachments in the form of"leg-irons"18 worn on the users feet, which engage the pole 12. The device 14 is coupled to the pole 12, and through a"pole strap"20, which is in turn coupled to a harness 22 worn by the user 10, a secure platform is provided for the user 10, both to assist in climbing up and down the pole 12, and to arrest a fall of the user 10, as will be described below.

To climb up the pole 12, with the user 10 in the position shown in Fig. 1, the user first disengages the leg-iron 18 of one foot from the pole 12, before raising his foot and re-engaging the leg-iron 18 higher up the pole 12. This is then repeated for the leg-iron 18 on the other foot. The user then straightens his legs and supports himself on the pole 12 using the leg-irons 18,

then grips the device 14 to release it from the pole 12 and moves the device axially along the pole 12 to a higher position. The user then releases the device 14, which re-grips the pole 12, allowing the process to be repeated as necessary until the user 10 reaches a desired location on the pole 12. To climb down the pole 12, this process is repeated in reverse.

Turning now to Fig. 2, there is shown a perspective view of a fall arresting device/climbing aid device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, indicated generally by reference numeral 24. As will be described in more detail below, the device 24 is suitable for encircling poles over a range of pole diameters. The device 24 is shown in Fig. 2 in a first configuration, suitable for encircling poles of a diameter in the range of, typically, 160mm to 200mm.

The device 24 generally comprises a flexible elongate member in the form of a webbing strap 26, pole engaging elements in the form of metal gaffs 28 for engaging the pole 12, handle elements 29 having first and second parts comprising handles 30 and chokes 38, coupled to the strap 26, and a tensioning element in the form of an elastic tensioner 32, coupled to the handle elements 29 between respective handles 30. The webbing strap 26 substantially encircles the pole 12 to be climbed and is urged to grip the pole 12 by the elastic force in the stretched tensioner 32. The webbing strap 26 has first and second end portions 34 and 36, each of which carries

a respective handle 30.

When the device 24 is located on the pole 12 as shown in Fig. 1, the gaffs 28 dig into the pole 12 to restrain the device 24 against axial movement along the pole 12. This both serves to restrain a fall from the pole 12 of the user 10 and acts as a climbing aid for the user, by providing a secure platform to which the user is coupled through his harness 22 and the pole strap 20.

The chokes 38 are connected to the first and second end portions 34 and 36. In the event of a fall, the weight of a user is applied through the pole strap 20 to chokes 38 which is transmitted to the webbing 26 and causes the gaffs 28 to dig into the pole to resist the fall. In particular, the chokes 38 are pivotally mounted at the end portions 34 and 36 such that, in the event of a fall, a force is exerted upon ends 40 of the chokes 38 to pull the ends 40 towards one another in the direction of the arrows A. This causes the chokes 38 and webbing strap 26 to more closely grip the pole 12 and"choke"the fall.

Referring now to Figs. 3A to 9B, the device 24 will be described in more detail. Turning initially to Figs.

3A and 3B, the webbing strap 26 is shown in flattened profile. It will be understood that the webbing strap 26 may be manufactured to be shaped either as shown in Figs. 3A and 3B, or may be manufactured to be arcuate or curved as shown in Fig. 2.

The webbing is typically constructed from two or

more lengths of fabric, typically a polyester or polyamide (nylon TM) webbing type material. In this embodiment, the webbing 26 comprises outer and inner strap portions 42 and 44 respectively. The outer strap portion 42 is folded over to form loops 46 and 48 and in a similar fashion, the inner strap portion 44 is folded over to form loops 50 and 52. The strap portions 42 and 44 are secured together by stitching along the length of the portions as indicated generally by reference numeral 54. Each of the loops 46,48, 50 and 52 are sized to receive a bolt 55, shown in Fig. 2, for mounting the handles 30 and chokes 38 to the webbing strap 26 in a good fit without undue slack. However, the device 14 still functions well with the bolts received in a slack fit.

The webbing strap 26 may, as described above, be manufactured to be arcuate or curved. This is achieved by stitching the outer and inner strap portions 42 and 44 together over a curved drum or the like, to provide the webbing strap 26 with some inherent resilience which, in use, may at least in part urge the webbing strap 26, and thus the device 24, to engage the pole 12.

Turning now to Figs. 4A and 4B, the webbing strap 26 is shown carrying the two metal gaffs 28 shown in Fig. 2.

The gaffs 28 are provided at predetermined spacings along the length of the webbing strap 26 to provide optimal engagement with the pole 12 when the device 24 is used on poles 12 of a variety of diameters. This spacing is

selected both to provide good engagement with the pole 12, but also to avoid causing damage to the power cable 16 shown in Fig. 1. Each gaff 28 has spaced pole engaging teeth 56 and 58. The teeth 56 and 58 are, in this embodiment, angled in opposite directions to provide good engagement with the pole 12. Gaffs similar to the gaffs 28 will be described in more detail with reference to Figs. 7A to 9B below.

Turning now to Figs. SA and 5B, there are shown front and plan views, respectively, of one of the handles 30 of the device 24 shown in Fig. 2. For ease of manufacture, the handles 30 are typically of a metal rod and include a handle loop 60 with spacer rods 62 and 64.

The handle loop 60 defines a handle portion 78 which is gripped by the user 10 when he desires to move the device 24 axially along the pole 12, as will be described below.

The spacer rods 62 and 64 are provided between sides 70 and 72 of the handle loop 60, to strengthen the handle 30 and to provide adjustable location for the tensioner 32.

As shown in Fig. 2, each bolt 55 includes a head 74 and retaining nut 76 for releasably securing the handles 30 in place. The handles 30 are located in the loops 46 and 48 of the webbing strap 26 to define an effective useful length of the webbing strap 26 for encircling the pole 12. It will be understood that in the configuration of Fig. 2, the handles 30 are located at the effective end portions 34 and 36 of the webbing strap 26, but that location of the handles in one of the alternative loops

50 or 52 may define an alternative effective length of the webbing strap 26, and that the handles 30 would be deemed to be located at the end portions in the region of the loop selected.

Figs. 6A and 6B are front and plan views, respectively, of a choke 38 shown in Fig. 2. In a similar fashion to the handles 30, the chokes 38 are typically of a metal rod 80 with bolt engaging loops 82 provided for engaging the bolt 55.

Figs. 7A to 9B generally show a metal gaff, similar to the gaff 28 of Fig. 2, and indicated generally by reference numeral 28a. The gaff 28a includes a bracket 90 shown in the front, side and plan views of Figs. 7A to 7C, a backing plate 92 shown in the front and side views of Figs. 8A and 8B and optional gaff spacers, one of which is shown in the front and plan views of Figs. 9A and 9B and given the reference numeral 94.

The bracket 90 is shaped to define pole engaging teeth 96 at either end thereof and it will be noted that the teeth 90 are of a different profile to the teeth 56 and 58 of the gaffs 28. Holes 98 are provided in the bracket 90 for receiving a fastener, for coupling the bracket 90 to the backing plate 92 and the gaff spacers 94. As shown in Fig. 2 and Figs. 4A and 4B, the bracket 90 is located on the inner strap portion 44 and the backing plate 92 is located on the outer strap portion 42. The backing plate 92 and each of the gaff spacers 94 include holes 100,102 respectively for receiving the

fastener (not shown). When assembled and coupled to the webbing strap 26, the gaff 28a straddles the webbing strap 26 and is securely coupled to the webbing strap.

The tensioner 32 is best shown in Fig. 2 and comprises an elastic rubber rope 104 which is looped at its ends 106 for coupling to the handles 30. Locking ferrules 108 are provided for securing the rope to the handles 30, and an optional protective sleeve 110, typically of a material resistant to wear such as a rubber or plastics material, surrounds the rubber rope 104. Ends of the tensioner 32 can be located between the spacers 62 and 64, as shown.

When the device 24 is assembled and provided encircling a pole 12 as shown in Fig. 1, the tensioner 32 is stretched as shown, and the resilient force acts to pull the handles 30 towards one another in the direction of the arrows B (Fig. 2), together with the end portions 34 and 36 of the webbing strap 26. This securely engages the device 24 upon the pole 12, and the device 24 is thus restrained from further axial movement by engagement of the gaff teeth 56 and 58 in the pole.

When it is desired to climb up or down the pole 12 the user grasps the handle portions 78, to exert a force against the biassing force of the tensioner 32, to move the handles 30 and thus the end portions 34 and 36 of strap 26 apart. This disengages the gaff teeth 56,58 from the pole 12, allowing the desired axial movement of the pole strap 26 to an alternative location on the pole

12. It will be understood that at any time, should the user experience a fall, the chokes 38 act together with the pole strap 20 to restrain the fall, whilst the tensioner 32 returns the handles 30 and thus the end portions 34,36 of strap 26 to the position of Fig. 2 in secure engagement with the pole 12. In practice, the system provides a two-way arrest of a falling body.

Firstly, the gaffs 28 bed into the wood of the pole 12, while at the same time, the pole strap 20 snatches onto the chokes 38, causing them to perform a choking action to resist and eventually stop the fall.

Referring now to Figs. 10 and 11, the device 24 of Fig. 2 is shown in second and third configurations. In Fig. 10, the handles 30 and chokes 38 are coupled to the webbing strap 26 by the loops 46 and 52. As described above, this provides a different effective length of the webbing strap 26 and the device 24 shown in Fig. 10 is suitable for encircling poles of diameters in the range, typically, of 200mm to 240mm. In Fig. 11, the handles 30 and chokes 38 are coupled to the webbing strap 26 by the loops 50 and 52. This provides a greater effective length of the webbing strap 26 suitable for use with poles of diameters in the range of, typically, 240mm to 300mm.

It will therefore be understood that the device 24 can be readily used to encircle poles of diameters in the range 160mm to 300mm simply by relocating the handles 30 and chokes 38 as required. This is achieved by releasing the retaining nut 76 of each bolt 55 and relocating in

the desired loop. Equally, it will be understood that other sizes of poles may easily be accommodated by minor dimensional changes to the flexible member.

Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a fall arresting device/climbing aid device in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention, shown located on a pole 12, and indicated generally by reference numeral 24a. Like components of the device 24a with the device 24 of Figs. 1 to 11 share the same reference numerals, with the addition of the letter"a".

The device 24a is shown in Fig. 12 with a tensioner 32 in broken outline. The device 24a includes a webbing strap 26a, gaffs 28a of the type shown in Figs. 7A to 9B, handles 30a and the tensioner, which will be described below with reference to Figs. 13 to 16C.

Fig. 13 is a plan view of the device 24a of Fig. 12, shown including the tensioner 32a and showing the pole strap 20a coupled to the handles 30a. In the embodiment shown, the webbing strap 26a, which will be discussed in relation to Fig. 14 below, has four metal gaffs 28a coupled thereto spaced around the webbing strap 26a.

To provide good engagement with a pole 12 upon which the device 24a is located, the two gaffs 28a provided furthest from the handles 30a are mutually spaced from an axis C at, typically, 450, whilst the two gaffs 28a closest to the handles 30a are mutually spaced from an axis D by, typically, 15 . It will be appreciated that alternative separations of the gaffs may be provided, in

particular, the two gaffs 28a furthest from the handles 30a may be mutually spaced at 600 from the axis C. The device 24a is suitable for encircling poles 12 of a diameter typically in the region of 200mm.

Turning now to Fig. 14, there is shown a plan view of the webbing strap 26a of the device 24a. It will be seen that the webbing strap 26a comprises a single or multiple length of material 112 having a first end 114 and a second end 116. The material 112 is folded over to define loops 118 and 120 for receiving the handles as shown in Fig. 13, and is folded such that, typically, the ends 114 and 116 overlap.

The webbing strap 26a is stitched into the shape shown in Fig. 14 by stitching on a cylinder or the like, as described above, to form the strap 26a into the arcuate or curved profile shown in Fig. 14. Each of the loops 118 and 120 carries an optional lining 122, typically of a chamois leather material, and the material 112 of the webbing strap 26a is sewn in particular at the locations 124 and 126 to define a"snug"fit with the handles 30a. Again however, the device may equally function with a slack fit of the handles 30a in the locations 124 and 126.

Figs. 15A and 15B are front and plan views, respectively, of the handles 30a of the device 24a shown in Fig. 12. One handle 30a is shown, each handle 30a being of a metal 128, similar to the handles 30 of the device 24 shown in Fig. 2. The metal rod 128 is formed

into the shape shown in Figs. 15A and 15B, and ends of the rod 128 are connected by a fillet weld 130. The handles 30a define a handle portion 78a for gripping by the user 10. The handle 30a is shaped to define an entry 132 for inserting the tensioner 32a between the handles 30a of the device 24a.

Fig. 16A is a front view of the tensioning element 32a, and Figs. 16B and 16C are views of a protective sleeve 134 of the tensioner 32a and part of the tensioner 32a, respectively.

The tensioner 32a is similar to the tensioner 32 of the device 24 in that it includes an elastic rubber rope 104a on which the sleeve 134 is located by ferrules or bindings 108a. However, couplings in the form of shaped rods 136 for engaging the handles 30a are provided, and the rods 136 include locating portions 138 which engage elbows 140 of the handles 30a. This is shown in particular in Fig. 13.

Turning now to Figs. 17 and 18, there are shown perspective views of fall arresting/climbing aid devices in accordance with alternative embodiments of the present invention, similar to the device 24a shown in Fig. 12, and indicated generally by reference numeral 24b and 24c respectively. Like components of the devices 24b and 24c with the device 24a of Fig. 12 share the same reference numerals with the addition of the letters"b"and"c" respectively in place of the letter"a".

It will be seen from Fig. 17 that the device 24b

differs from the device 24a in that it includes an alternative tensioner 32b. The tensioner 32b is coupled to end supports in the form of straight rods 136b, for easy coupling of the tensioner 32b to the webbing strap 26b.

In Fig. 18, it will be noted that a tensioner 32c of 25 the device is shown in broken outline and that the gaffs 28c are angled when compared to the gaffs 28a of the device 24a. This provides an alternative gripping arrangement, where the gaffs 28c are angled with respect to the main axis of the pole 12, as can be seen in Fig.

18.

Fig. 19 shows a perspective view of a device 24d in accordance with a further alternative embodiment of the present invention, similar to the device 24a of Fig. 12.

Like components share the same reference numerals with the addition of the letter"d". It will be seen that a tensioner 32d of the device is again shown in broken outline, and that the gaffs 28d differ in that pole engaging teeth 96d are provided at a point along the length of the gaff bracket 90d. This provides a further alternative arrangement of engaging teeth.

Turning now to Fig. 20A, there is shown a perspective view of a fall arresting/climbing aid device in accordance with a further alternative embodiment of the present invention, indicated generally by reference numeral 24e. Like components of the device 24e with the device 24 of Fig. 1 share the same reference numerals

with the addition of the letter"e".

The device 24e is similar to the devices 24a-24d of Figs. 12-19 and includes a webbing strap 26e of a single length carrying two gaffs 28e, with the pole strap 20 coupled directly to the handle 30e, and a tensioner 32e coupled between the handles 30e. The webbing strap 26e and the tensioner 32e are shown in more detail in the views of Figs. 20B-20D.

Referring in particular to Fig. 20D, it will be noted that the tensioner 32e includes an elastic rope 152 with an optional plastic tube 154 acting as a protective sleeve provided around the rope 152. At either end of the rope 152, hooks 156 are provided for engaging the handle 30e in a snap fit, as shown in Fig. 20a. In the event of a fall, the pole strap 20 acts upon the handle 30e in a similar fashion to the chokes 38 of the device 24 shown in Fig. 2, pulling the handles 30e and thus the ends 34e and 36e of the webbing strap 26e closer together in a choking action, to arrest the fall of the user.

Turning now to Fig. 21, there is shown a perspective view of a fall arresting/climbing aid device in accordance with a further alternative embodiment of the present invention, indicated generally by reference numeral 24f. Like components of the device 24f with the device 24 of Fig. 2 share the same reference numerals with the addition of the letter"f".

The device 24f is similar to the device 24 of Fig.

2, except that it includes an alternative tensioner 32f

and alternative handle elements comprising handles 30f. Also, as is the case with all of the devices of Figs. 12, 13,17, 18,19 and 20A the device 24f does not include separate chokes. The gaffs 28f are of the type described with reference to Figs. 7A to 9B above, and are coupled to a webbing strap 26f of the device 24f in a similar fashion.

The handles 30f are bent through approximately 30 degrees when viewed in plan and are constructed from a metal rod 142. Generally C-shaped spacers 144 and 146 are welded to the rod 142 and provide restraints for receiving and engaging the pole strap 20 (which passes through the handles 30f) and the tensioner 32f, both of which are shown in dashed lines. An elastic rubber rope 104f of the tensioner 32f is shown in dashed lines. The tensioner 32f includes couplings in the form of shaped metal rods 148 which are coupled to the rubber rope 104f, and which are generally"pig-tail"shaped. These serve for coupling the tensioner 32f to the handles 30f, but allow insertion of the tensioner 32f through gaps 150 defined between the spacers 146 and end portions 34f and 36f, respectively, of the webbing strap 26f.

Various modifications may be made to the foregoing within the scope of the present invention.

The flexible member may take the form of a substantially solid material such as a plastics material or an insulated metal material. The pole engaging elements may be secured to the flexible member by any

suitable means, for example, nut and bolt assemblies or adhesive, or the elements may be integral with the flexible member.

The device may comprise any desired number of pole engaging elements, such as the gaffs 28. The pole engaging elements may be of any alternative suitable material such as a composite fibre glass, carbon fibre or the like material. The tensioning element may comprise a tensioner in the form of a spring or any other suitable elastic member. The gaffs may comprise a bracket, without spacer or backing plate, coupled directly to the flexible member.

The or each pole engaging element may be releasable from the flexible member, for positioning in an alternative location on the flexible member, or may be movably mounted to the flexible member. This may allow the or each element to slide or move along the flexible member to the desired location. The elements may additionally or alternatively be coupled to the handles and/or chokes of the device.

The present invention is particularly advantageous in that it is cheap to manufacture, lightweight, simple to use, requires little maintenance and may be adaptable for use with poles having a range of diameters.

The tensioning element may be any suitable element such as a spring or a sprung member. The elastic rope of the tensioner may have at each of its ends any suitable means for coupling to the handles; the coupling means may, for example, take the form of hooks.

The spacers of the embodiments of Fig. 20 may be straight, or any other suitable shape, rather than Cshaped.

The handles and chokes may be of shaped metal rod, or may be cast or forged in bulk quantities.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. A fall arresting device for use in climbing up and down a pole, the device comprising a flexible elongate member for substantially encircling the pole and being urged to grip the pole, the flexible member having a first and a second end portion, each of said end portions carrying a respective handle element, the handle elements being adapted to be coupled to a user ; at least one pole engaging element coupled to the flexible member for engaging the pole to restrain the device against axial movement therealong, the handle elements being adapted to be gripped by a user to allow the flexible member to be released from the pole, and to disengage the engaging element and allow axial movement of the device along the pole to a new position; and a tensioning element coupled to the flexible member, to urge the flexible member to grip the pole ; whereby, in use and in the event of a fall, a force is applied by the user through the handle elements to the flexible member and the engaging element, to engage the pole and to arrest the fall.
2. A climbing aid device for use in climbing up and down a pole, the device comprising a flexible elongate member for substantially encircling the pole and being urged to grip the pole, the flexible member having a first and a second end portion, each of said end portions carrying a respective handle element, the handle elements being adapted to be coupled to a user ; at least one pole engaging element coupled to the flexible member for

engaging the pole to restrain the device against axial movement therealong, the handle elements being adapted to be gripped by a user to allow the flexible member to be released from the pole, and to disengage the engaging element and allow axial movement of the device along the pole to a new position; and a tensioning element coupled to the flexible member, to urge the flexible member to grip the pole.
3. A device as claimed in either of claims 1 or 2, wherein the handle elements are adapted to receive a coupling strap which is in turn coupled to a harness worn by the user, such that in the event of a fall, the force is applied from the user's harness and the coupling strap through the handle elements.
4. A device as claimed in either of claims 1 or 2, wherein the handle elements are adapted to receive part of a harness coupled to the user, such that in the event of a fall, the force is applied from the user's harness through the handle elements.
5. A device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the device is adjustable to accommodate poles of different diameters.
6. A device as claimed in claim 5, wherein the flexible member is adjustable in length for substantially encircling and gripping poles of different diameters.
7. A device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the flexible member includes couplings for receiving the handle elements to define an effective length of flexible member

therebetween, for encircling and gripping the pole.
8. A device as claimed in claim 7, wherein a number of couplings are spaced along a length of the flexible member.
9. A device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the flexible member is resilient, such that the flexible member is urged at least in part to grip the pole by the inherent resilience of the material of the flexible member.
10. A device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the flexible member comprises a fabric material.
11. A device as claimed in claim 10, wherein the flexible member comprises a length of fabric material of at least a double material thickness along at least part of a length of the flexible member.
12. A device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the flexible member comprises a strip of a substantially solid, non-fabric material.
13. A device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the tensioning element is coupled to the end portions of the flexible member such that, in use, the tensioning element acts to urge the flexible member to grip the pole by urging the first and second end portions of the flexible member towards one another.
14. A device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the tensioning element is coupled to the handle elements of the device.
15. A device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein

the tensioning element comprises an elastic rope.
16. A device as claimed in claim 15, wherein the tensioning element further comprises a handle engaging element coupled to each end of the elastic rope, for coupling the elastic rope to the handle elements of the device.
17. A device as claimed in claim 16, wherein the handle engaging elements comprise shaped couplings which engage the elastic rope to secure the rope to the handle elements.
18. A device as claimed in any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the tensioning element further comprises a protective sleeve, for protecting said element against damage caused by the pole.
19. A device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the tensioning element comprises a spring.
20. A device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein at least two pole engaging elements are provided spaced along the flexible member.
21. A device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the at least one pole engaging element comprises a separate element for coupling to the flexible member.
22. A device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the at least one pole engaging element includes at least one engaging tooth for engaging the pole.
23. A device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein said at least one pole engaging element is movably mounted on the flexible member.
24. A device as claimed in claim 12, or any one of claims 13 to 20 when dependent on claim 12, wherein the flexible member includes at least one integral pole engaging element.
25. A device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the handle elements comprise a first handle part adapted to be gripped by the user and a second handle part for receiving the part of the harness coupled to the user.
26. A device substantially as described herein and as shown in Figs. 1 to 11.
27. A device substantially as described herein and as shown in Figs. 12 to 16c.
28. A device substantially as described herein and as shown in Fig. 17.
29. A device substantially as described herein and as shown in Fig. 18.
30. A device substantially as described herein and as shown in Fig. 19.
31. A device substantially as described herein and as shown in Figs. 20A to 20D.
32. A device substantially as described herein and as shown in Fig. 21.