WO2017098311A1

WO2017098311A1 - System and method for elongated object handling

Info

Publication number: WO2017098311A1
Application number: PCT/IB2015/059551
Authority: WO
Inventors: Sean Peter KANE
Original assignee: Kane Sean Peter
Priority date: 2015-12-11
Filing date: 2015-12-11
Publication date: 2017-06-15

Abstract

A mechanically advantaged elongated object handling device comprising a mechanical advantage system and an elongated object handling device configured to selectively apply a frictional grip to hold an elongated object and to selectively release the frictional grip. The elongated object handling device removably mounted in the mechanical advantage system wherein a movement caused to the mechanical advantage system makes the elongated object handling device to move in a desired direction causing the elongated object to move by a distance. Release of the frictional grip allows movement of the mechanical advantage system or movement of the elongated object handling device in a forward or a backward direction over the elongated object without moving the elongated object.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ELONGATED OBJECT HANDLING

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not Applicable.

The present invention relates to the field of material handling. More particularly, the present invention relates to systems and methods for manual handling of elongated objects like heavy cables, hoses etc.

In many situations manual handling of materials becomes imperative. But, when the material to be handled is heavy or bulky, manual handling may become extremely difficult, labor intensive and even unsafe. Very often, at places such as at construction sites or at cargo handling sites, heavy duty power cables, large diameter hoses or pipes or similar large heavy elongated objects require manual handling. Manual handling of such objects may become unavoidable because of non-availability of electric power or proper machinery, due to accessibility problem or due to logistical problem etc.

For high voltage power transmission and distribution, heavy duty cables are used. Although, many types of cable handling devices such as cable winches, cable jacks, cable trailers are used for hauling of such cables, very often quite a number of people at work are needed to manually carry and move the cable to the desired position. For example, in laying of cables, while negotiating turns or while lowering/lifting the cables, due to inadequacy of proper devices, manual handling of the cables is a must. The existing equipment/machineries are either not fit for use in those purposes or such equipment/machinery cannot be used due to non-availability of electrical power at the sites. Similar problem exists in handling of other elongated objects like large pipes and hoses also.

Thus, there exists a need for a system and method which can enable efficient and safe handling of elongated objects.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

An object of the present invention is to provide a system and method for manual handling of elongated objects.

Another object of the present invention is to reduce physical exertion in manual handling of elongated objects like cables and pipes.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide a system and method for safer manual handling of heavy elongated objects.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a system and method for faster manual handling of elongated objects.

A still further object of the present invention is to provide a system and method for manual handling of elongated objects in confined spaces and at elevated platforms from a convenient and safe distance.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a device with mechanical advantage for manual handling of elongated object.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a device for axial transportation of an elongated object.

Details of the foregoing objects and of the invention, as well as additional objects, features and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments exemplifying the best mode of carrying out the invention as presently perceived.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed invention. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

Handling of heavy elongated objects such as electric cables is difficult as the limitations/unavailability of the present day machineries deployable at cable laying sites and/or the problems of unavailability of electric power at the sites make the task of cable laying labor intensive, time consuming and unsafe. Accordingly, to overcome these problems, there is provided a system and method by the present invention for manual handling of elongated objects. An elongated object handling device comprises a frame structure and a gripping mechanism disposed inside the frame structure in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. A hinge structure provided at the top side of the frame and a latch provided at the bottom side of the frame hold the two part frame structure together. For use the two parts of the frame can be pivotally opened to provide access for placing a cable (or any other elongated object like pipe, rails etc.) between the gripping tools of the gripping mechanism. The two parts of the frame can be then lowered to close the frame structure. The gripping mechanism is configured to frictionally grip, as per selection made by a user, the cable when the device is moved in one direction and release the grip over the cable when the device is moved in the opposite direction. Handles attached to the frame structure provides mechanical advantage in handling the cable. Two persons can hold the handles and either push or pull the device in a direction to move the cable. Since, the gripping mechanism alternately grips and releases the cable depending upon direction of movement, standing at the same place the persons can move the cable in the desired direction.

In some embodiments, a pulley system or a gear system can be used with the elongated object handling device to provide additional mechanical advantage. The pulley system or the gear system also enables manual handling of elongated objects at confined spaces or at elevated positions. The elongated object handling device alone and/or in combination with the pulley system or the gear system makes the task of manual handling of heavy unwieldy elongated objects easier, faster and safer.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed invention are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and is intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

In order to describe the manner in which features and other aspects of the present disclosure can be obtained, a more particular description of certain subject matter will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments that are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting in scope, nor drawn to scale for all embodiments, various embodiments will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG.1

FIG.1 illustrates a perspective view showing the internal components of an elongated object handling device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG.2

FIG.2 shows a perspective view of the elongated object handling device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG.3

FIG.3 illustrates an exemplary front view of the elongated object handling device holding an object in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG.4

FIG.4 illustrates a perspective view of the elongated object handling device with handles fitted in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG.5

FIG. 5 illustrates the elongated object handling device in use at a first position in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG.6

FIG. 6 illustrates the elongated object handling device in use at a second position in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG.7

FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of a pulley system for use with the elongated object handling device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG.8

FIG.8 illustrates another perspective view of a pulley system for use with the elongated object handling device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG.9

FIG.9 illustrates a perspective view of the elongated object handling device mounted on the pulley system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG.10

FIG.10 illustrates another perspective view of the elongated object handling device mounted on the pulley system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG.11

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of the elongated object handling device holding an elongated object and mounted on the pulley system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG.12

FIG. 12 illustrates another perspective view of the elongated object handling device holding an elongated object and mounted on the pulley system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG.13

FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of the elongated object handling device holding an elongated object and mounted on the pulley system being driven by operators at a first position in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG.14

FIG.14 illustrates a perspective view of the elongated object handling device holding an elongated object and mounted on the pulley system being driven by operators at a second position in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG.15

FIG.15 illustrates a perspective view of the elongated object handling device holding an elongated object and mounted on the pulley system and two secondary roller assemblies configured to be attached to the pulley system frame in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG.16

FIG.16 illustrates a perspective view of the elongated object handling device holding an elongated object and mounted on the pulley system having two secondary roller assemblies with pulling ropes in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG.17

FIG. 17 illustrates a perspective view of the elongated object handling device holding an elongated object and mounted on the pulley system having two secondary roller assemblies with pulling ropes placed at a confined space and is operable from a remote place in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG.18

FIG. 18 illustrates a perspective view of the elongated object handling device holding an elongated object and mounted on the pulley system having two secondary roller assemblies with pulling ropes placed at an elevated platform and is operable from the ground level in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG.19

FIG. 19 illustrates a perspective view of a gear system for use with the elongated object handling device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG.20

FIG. 20 illustrates a perspective view of the elongated object handling device holding an elongated object and mounted on the gear system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG.21

FIG. 21 illustrates another perspective view of the elongated object handling device holding an elongated object and mounted on the gear system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG.22

FIG. 22 illustrates a perspective view of the elongated object handling device fitted with curved handles in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the present invention.

Embodiments of the present invention are described herein in the context of a system and method for providing a system and method for handling of elongated objects. Those of ordinary skill in the art will realize that the following detailed description of the present invention is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Other embodiments of the present invention will readily suggest themselves to such skilled persons having the benefit of this disclosure. Reference will now be made in detail to implementations of the present invention as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The same reference indicators will be used throughout the drawings and the following detailed description to refer to the same or like parts.

In the interest of clarity, not all of the routine features of the implementations described herein are shown and described. It will, of course, be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made in order to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as compliance with application, regulatory and business-related constraints, and that these specific goals will vary from one implementation to another and from one developer to another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of engineering for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

FIG.1 and FIG.2 show an elongated object handling device 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The elongated object handling device 100 comprises a frame structure 102 and a gripping mechanism disposed inside the frame structure. In a preferred embodiment, the frame structure comprises two oppositely disposed identical rigid parts 105 and 110. The first part 105 and the second part 110 are made to form mirror images of each other. A hinge structure 113 pivotally connects the first part 105 with the second part 110 to form the frame structure 102. The hinge structure 113 allows the first part 105 and the second part 110 to pivotally move away from each other to open the frame structure 102 from one side. A latch 145 is disposed at the open end of the frame structure opposite to the hinge structure 113. The latch 145 can secure the parts 105 and 110 together when the parts 105 and 110 are brought close to each other. In a preferred embodiment, the latch 145 is adjustable to securely hold the parts 105 and 110 together at variable distances depending on the size of the object being held by the gripping mechanism.

Reference to FIG.1, FIG.2 and FIG.3, the gripping mechanism comprises two or more gripping tools 115 and 120 configured to apply a frictional grip on the elongated object 310 along the circumferential periphery of the object 310 and one or more gripping tool actuators 125 and 130 configured to engage the gripping tools 115 and 120 selectively for application of the said frictional grip on the said object. In a preferred embodiment, when the elongated object handling device 100 is moved in one direction, the gripping tool actuators 125 and 130 engage the gripping tools 115 and 120 to frictionally grip the object 310 being held in between making the object 310 to move along with the elongated object handling device 100. In the same embodiment, when the elongated object handling device 100 is moved in a direction opposite to the first direction, the gripping tool actuators 125 and 130 make the gripping tools 115 and 120 release the grip from the object 310. Thus, by applying and releasing the grip alternatively, the object 310 can be moved in a desired direction. Also, with the grip disengaged, the elongated object handling device 100 can be moved over the elongated object 310 in the forward direction without moving the object 310 so that the device 100 can be positioned at a different place over the object 310 without opening the frame structure of the device 100.

In a preferred embodiment, each of the gripping tool actuators 125 and 130 comprise one or more tension springs 135 and one or more telescopic shafts 140. Although, the gripping tools 115 and 120 are depicted as rollers in the drawings, it would be obvious to use gripping tools having shape and profile different from the rollers shown in the drawings. Also, in a preferred embodiment, the gripping mechanism allows use of gripping tools and the gripping tool actuators of various sizes in the same elongated object handling device 100 depending upon the size and shape of the object to be handled.

The frame structure 102 of the elongated object handling device 100 has provision for detachably attaching extendable handles. For example, as shown in FIG.4, one extendable handle 405 is attached to the holder 150 and another extendable handle 410 is attached to the holder 155 wherein holders 150 and 155 are affixed to the first part 110 and the second part 105 of the frame structure respectively.

FIG.5 and FIG.6 illustrate one of the uses of the elongated object handling device 100. Hereinafter, the use of the elongated object handling device 100 is described with respect to handling of high voltage cables which are very heavy in weight. However, it would be obvious to anyone skilled in the art that many other elongated objects such as pipes, rails, hoses etc. can also be handled by the elongated object handling device 100 of the present invention.

Reference to FIG.1 through FIG.4, for use, the latch 145 is opened and the first part 105 and the second part 110 are pivoted/rotated upwardly about the hinge 113 and the elongated object handling device 100 is positioned over the object to be held across a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the object in such a way that the object remains between the gripping tools 115 and 120. The first part 105 and the second part 110 of the frame structure are then brought down and the latch 145 is engaged to lock the parts 115 and 120 together as shown in FIG.3. The handles 405 and 410, as shown in FIG.4, can be of any suitable length as per requirement or those can be telescopic shafts with adjustable lengths. Two operators 505 and 510, as shown in FIG.5, can position themselves on either sides of the cable 310 (Cable 310 is one of the elongated objects which can be handled by the elongated object handling device 100) and hold the handles 405 and 410 respectively to move the elongated object handling device 100 in any desired direction. In a preferred embodiment, the gripping mechanism can selectively grip an object in a plurality of modes. For example, the gripping mechanism can grip an object when moved forward and release the grip when moved backward, grip the object when moved backward and release the grip when moved forward or grip the object in both directions of movement. A grip selector (not shown in the figures) is provided for selection of a preferred gripping mode.

The operators 505 and 510 have the option of either pulling or pushing the elongated object handling device 100 to move the cable in the direction 507. In FIG.5, the operators 505 and 510 are shown trying to push the cable 310 in the forward direction 507. The operators 505 and 510 can place their hands on the handles 405 and 410 with arms close to their body in a comfortable first position. The gripping mechanism of the elongated object handling device 100, in the present example, is selected to grip the object in the forward movement (i.e. in the direction 507) and release the grip when the movement is reversed. Therefore, when the operators 505 and 510 push the elongated object handling device 100 in the forward direction 507, the cable 310 is carried forward along with the elongated object handling device 100. FIG.6 shows the elongated object handling device 100 at a second position away from the initial first position with the operators 505 and 510 standing at their original places but with their arms fully extended forward. The distance between the first position and the second position of the elongated object handling device 100 is the distance through which the cable 310 gets moved forward as the gripping mechanism does not allow the cable 310 to slip. The operators 505 and 510, standing at the same positions, can now bring the elongated object handling device 100 back to the first position by retracting their arms, as shown in FIG.5, as the gripping mechanism has been selected to release the grip in the backward direction 509. This way, by applying consecutive forward and backward movements to the elongated object handling device 100, the cable 310 can be carried forward. Obviously, instead of pushing forward, the elongated object handling device 100 can be pulled forward by the operators to carry the cable forward. Similarly, the elongated object handling device 100 can be used for carrying the cable 310 in any other direction which may be required during laying or hauling of the cable.

In some embodiments, the handles 405 and 410 can be of any shape and size. For example, the handles 405 and 410 can of shape similar to shown in FIG.22 which would enable the operators to operate the elongated object handling device 100 at a level lower than the level where the operators stand for handling of elongated objects at trenches or constricted spaces.

FIG.7 illustrates a pulley system 700 for use with the elongated object handling device 100 to increase the mechanical advantage in handling of elongated objects. As the number of pulleys and the consequent pulley rope count increase, the mechanical advantage provided by the pulley system increases accordingly. The pulley system 700 comprises a pulley housing configured to accommodate the elongated object handling device 100 and a pulley assembly. The pulley housing includes an opposed pair of parallel frames – a first frame member 705 and a second frame member 710 horizontally spaced apart and firmly held together by one or more cross support members 715. A plurality of channels is provided on each of the frame members i.e. on first frame member 705 and on second frame member 710. As shown in FIG.7, the second frame member 710 is provided with a channel 725 extending longitudinally from close to first end 714 to close to the second end 716 at the top surface 718 of the second frame 710. A second receiver 735 is slidably mounted on the channel 725. Similarly, a first receiver 730 is slidably mounted on the channel 720 provided on the first frame member 705. The pulley assembly comprises a first pulley mechanism disposed on the first frame member 705 and an identical second pulley mechanism disposed on the second frame member 710. In the perspective view of the pulley system 700, the second pulley mechanism can be seen disposed on the inside face 712 of the second frame member 710. A similar mirror image first pulley mechanism is disposed on the inside face of the first frame member 705 opposite to the second pulley mechanism and both the first and second pulley mechanisms are configured to work synchronously. The second pulley mechanism includes a first pulley 740 rotatably mounted on the first rail 750 and a second pulley 745 with a socket 775 mounted rotatably and slidably on the second rail 760 and a pulley rope 755 passing over the first pulley 740 and second pulley 745 with one end affixed to the second receiver 735 and the other end affixed to the first rail 750. The sockets 775 (socket on the first pulley mechanism being hidden in the figures) are configured to receive handles of the elongated object handling device 100. It would be obvious that, although only two pulleys are described for the first or second pulley mechanisms, there can be a plurality of pulleys included in the pulley mechanisms to increase the mechanical advantage. The sockets 775 can be of any type which can detachably receive the handles of the elongated object handling device 100.

While FIG.7 shows the first receiver 730 and the second receiver 735 at a first position which is located at the extreme forward end of the channels 720 and 725, the FIG.8 shows both the first and second receivers 730 and 735 at the other extreme ends of the channels 720 and 725.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the elongated object handling device 100 is mounted on the pulley system 700 to make use of the mechanical advantage provided by the pulley system 700 in handling of elongated objects by the elongated object handling device 100. The sockets 775 can receive the handles 405 and 410 respectively to firmly hold the elongated object handling device 100 in place in the pulley system. Once mounted, the movement of the elongated object handling device 100 gets synchronized with the cooperative movement of the sockets 775 in the pulley assembly. FIG.9 and FIG.10 illustrate perspective views of the elongated object handling device 100 mounted on the pulley system 700 with the elongated object handling device 100 being at two different positions in the channels 720 and 725 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Hereinafter, the elongated object handling device 100 and the pulley system 700 are together referred to as pulley assisted elongated object handling device 900.

FIG.11 and FIG.12 show the pulley assisted elongated object handling device 900 wherein a cable 310 is held by the elongated object handling device 100. Firstly, the elongated object handling device 100 is placed over the cable 310 following the same method as described above with respect to FIG.1, FIG.2 and FIG.3. The elongated object handling device 100 along with the cable 310 is then positioned between the first frame member 705 and the second frame member 710 and the device 100 is detachably attached to the pulley assembly by engaging the handles 405 and 410 with the sockets 775.

A first rowing handle 805 and a second rowing handle 810 are attached to the first receiver 730 and to the second receiver 735 respectively as shown in FIG.13. As in the case of attaching handles to the elongated object handling device 100, here also the handles can be of various sizes and shapes. The two operators 505 and 510 have the option of either pulling or pushing the cable 310 in any desired direction by a using the pulley assisted elongated object handling device 900. Reference to FIG.13, when the operators 505 and 510 push the rowing handles 805 and 810 in the direction 507 by a first distance, the receivers 730 and 735 slide on the channels 720 and 725 respectively from their first position in the same direction 507 which, in turn, pull the pulley ropes 755 (of both the pulley assemblies) along with them. The pull exerted by the pulley ropes 755 makes the second set of pulleys 745 (of both the pulley assemblies) slide toward the direction 509 (direction 509 is the direction opposite to direction 507). Since, the sockets 775 are integral to the second pulleys 745 and the elongated object handling device 100 is mounted on the sockets 775, the elongated object handling device 100 moves in the direction 509 taking the cable 310 along with it by a second distance wherein the second distance can be equal, less than or more than the first distance depending upon the number of pulleys and rope count used. FIG.14 shows the second position at which the receivers 730 and 735 would remain when the operators push the rowing handles 805 and 810 with their arms fully or partially stretched. The operators can now pull the rowing handles 805 and 810 toward their body by standing at the same position and, if the gripping mechanism is set to work in uni-direction mode, then the elongated object handling device 100 will release the grip over the cable 310 and will slide/roll back to the first position leaving the cable at the second position. Consecutive back and forth movements of the rowing handles 805 and 810 will make the cable 310 move in the direction 507 or 509, according to the selected mode of grip.

As it can be seen in the FIGS. 11 through 14, the elongated object handling device 100 works in the same way in the pulley assisted elongated object handling device 900 as it would work when it acts alone. But, the mechanical advantage provided by the pulley system in the pulley assisted elongated object handling device 900 makes the task much easier for the operators as the mechanical advantage lessens the physical effort required from the operators. It would be obvious that, by increasing or decreasing the number of pulleys and/or the pulley rope count, the mechanical advantage can be increased or decreased. The distance travelled by the elongated object handling device 100 corresponding to the distance travelled by the receivers 730 and 735 can also be increased or decreased depending on the number of pulleys and/or on the pulley rope count in the pulley assembly.

Similar to the pulley system 700, mechanical advantage can also be provided by a gear system 1900 as described with reference to FIGS.19 through 21. The pulley system 700 and the gear system 1900 are alternatively and interchangeably referred to as a mechanical advantage system. The pulley assisted elongated object handling device 900 or the gear assisted elongated object handling devices 2000 are, sometimes, alternatively and interchangeably referred to hereinafter as a mechanically advantaged elongated object handling device. Also, in some embodiments, one or more roller assemblies may be attached to the mechanically advantaged elongated object handling device to make the device operable from a distance. Reference to FIG.15, in some embodiments, one or more secondary roller assemblies 1502 are provided with a pulley assisted elongated object handling device 1500 for enabling operation of the device 1500 by operators from a distance. Each of the secondary roller assemblies 1502 comprises a roller 1503, a base 1505 provided with one or more holes 1507 and a guide 1508. The first frame member 705 and the second frame member 710 are also provided with threaded holes 1504. A plurality of fasteners 1509 can be used to attach the secondary roller assemblies 1502 to the frame members 705 and 710 as shown in FIG.16. In this embodiment, one or more cables or ropes can be used to pull the receivers 730 and 735 to operate the elongated object handling device from a distance. FIG.16 shows two ropes (a first rope and a second rope) 1506, first ends of the ropes tied to the receivers 730 and 735 and the second ends of the ropes left free after passing through the secondary roller assemblies 1502. In another similar embodiment, the roller assemblies are configured to be mounted on the frame members of a gear assisted elongated object handling device 2000 (the device 2000 is shown in FIGS.20 and 21). The pulley assisted elongated object handling device 900 or the gear assisted elongated object handling device 2000, provided with secondary roller assemblies are, generally, referred to hereinafter as remotely operable elongated object handling device.

FIG.17 illustrates use of the remotely operable elongated object handling device 1500 at a confined space 1706. In this example, the remotely operable elongated object handling device 1500 is lowered at the bottom of a trench 1706 (which is a confined space) to haul the cable 310. Here, instead of going down to the bottom of the cable trench, the device 1500 can be operated from the ground level. Standing on either sides 1702 and 1704 of the trench operators can pull the ropes 1506 (the first rope and the second rope) to operate the device 1500 for moving the cable in a desired direction. The guides 1508 help the ropes stay in the rollers 1503 while being pulled by the operators. In a preferred embodiment, a tension spring or an elastic member 1512 is attached to each of the receivers (only one elastic member 1512 is shown attached with one receiver 730 in FIG.16 although similar elastic member 1512 will be attached to the other receiver 735 also) so that the receivers 730 and 735 go back to the other end in the channels when the pull on the ropes 1506 is released. By exerting consecutive pulls through the ropes 1506, operators can make the elongated object handling device move the cable 310 in the desired direction even when standing on a ground situated above the work place level. Similarly, the remotely operable elongated object handling device 1500 can be used to handle elongated objects at an elevated level while staying at a safe and convenient base level as shown in FIG.18. In this example, the remotely operable elongated object handling device 1500 is placed on the cable tray 1802 which is situated above the floor level. Once the cable is 310 is gripped by the gripping mechanism of the elongated object handling device, the device 1500 can be operated from the floor level by pulling and releasing the ropes 1506 successively.

In another embodiment, the elongated object handling device 100 is used along with a gear system to enhance the mechanical advantage. A preferred embodiment of the gear system is shown in FIG.19. Similar to the pulley system, the gear system 1900 also works on the principle of mechanical advantage. By altering the gear ratio, the mechanical advantage provided by the gear system can be adjusted at a desired level. The gear system 1900 comprises a gear housing configured to accommodate the elongated object handling device 100 and a gear assembly. The gear housing includes an opposed pair of parallel frames – a first frame member 1905 and a second frame member 1910 horizontally spaced apart and firmly held together by one or more shafts (e.g. 1915, 1917 etc.). A plurality of channels is provided on each of the frame members i.e. on first frame member 1905 and on second frame member 1910. As shown in FIG.19, the second frame member 1910 is provided with a channel 1925 extending longitudinally between the two ends at the top surface 1918 of the second frame 1910. A second receiver 1935 is slidably mounted on the channel 1925. Similarly, a first receiver 1930 is slidably mounted on the channel 1920 provided on the first frame member 1905. Another channel 1965 is provided on the second frame 1910 which is configured to accommodate a socket wheel 1975 slidable in the channel 1965. The gear assembly comprises a first gear mechanism disposed on the first frame member 1905 and a second gear mechanism disposed on the second frame member 1910. For ease of explanation, the components of the gear system are described with reference to the second gear mechanism only. However, it should be noted that the first gear mechanism and the second gear mechanism and all the other components provided/supported by the first gear mechanism and the second gear mechanism are identical in dimension, specification and function. As shown in FIG.19, the second gear mechanism comprises a first strap reel 1978 and a drive sprocket 1979 both firmly mounted on the first shaft 1915, a variable ratio transmission system 1957 and a second strap reel 1940 both mounted firmly on the second shaft 1917. A chain 1959 transmits rotational motion from the drive sprocket 1979 to the variable ratio transmission system 1957. The variable ratio transmission system 1957 comprises a plurality of sprockets having different teeth counts (e.g. 25, 50, 75 teeth) and a gear shifting mechanism (not shown in the drawings) which allows selection any of these sprockets as per requirement to alter the gear ratio. A belt or first strap 1912 with one end tied to the first end 1914 of the second frame member and the other end tied to the second receiver 1935 helps in converting linear movement of the second receiver 1935 to rotational movement of the first strap reel 1978. The first strap 1912 can be made of any suitable material commonly known in the art and, in some embodiments, material having elastic properties can be used so that the second receiver 1935 tends to come back to the first end 1914 once the pull or push exerted on the second receiver 1935 is withdrawn. Alternatively, a tension spring can be provided between the first end 1914 and the first strap 1912. The variable ratio transmission system 1957, in a preferred embodiment, can be similar to a derailleur gear.

The sockets 1985 (provided in both of the socket wheels of first frame member and the second frame member) are configured to detachably accommodate the elongated object handling device 100 in between the frame members of the gear system as shown in FIG.20. The combination of the elongated object handling device and the gear system, as shown in FIG.20, is hereinafter referred to as a gear assisted elongated object handling device 2000.

FIG.20 and FIG.21 show the gear assisted elongated object handling device 2000 wherein a cable 310 is held by the elongated object handling device 100. Firstly, the elongated object handling device 100 is placed over the cable 310 following the same method as described above with respect to FIG.1, FIG.2 and FIG.3. The elongated object handling device 100 along with the cable 310 is then positioned between the first frame member 1905 and the second frame member 1910 and the device 100 is detachably attached to the gear system by engaging the handles 405 and 410 with the sockets 1985 shown in FIG.19.

Reference to FIG.20, first rowing handle 2005 and second rowing handle 2010 can be attached to the first receiver 1930 and second receiver 1935 respectively. If the handles are pushed or pulled by operators in the direction 2020, the receivers 1930 and 1935 slide in the same direction and the first straps 1912 get pulled resulting in clockwise rotation of the strap reels 1978. Since the first strap reels 1978 and the drive sprockets 1979 are firmly mounted on the first shaft 1915, rotation of the first strap reels 1978 makes the drive sprockets 1979 rotate. The rotational motion of the drive sprockets 1979 gets transmitted to the variable ratio transmission system 1957 through the chains 1959. This makes the second shaft 1917 rotate, which, in turn, rotates the second strap reels 1940 clockwise. Since second straps 1945 connect the socket wheels 1975 to the second strap reels 1940, clockwise rotation of the second strap reels 1940 results in pulling of the socket wheels 1975 in the direction 2020. The elongated object handling device 100 also moves in the direction 2020 along with the socket wheels 1975 moving the cable 310 along with it as shown in FIG.21. The elongated object handling device 100 can be then brought back to the initial position by pulling or pushing the rowing handles 2005 and 2010 in the direction 2015. Thus, by consecutive pushing and pulling of the rowing handles 2005 and 2010, an elongated object such as the cable 310 can be moved easily. By selecting different gear ratios in the variable ratio transmission system 1957, a suitable level of torque and speed can be obtained.

In some embodiments, the pulley system or the gear system can be made operable by a single person. In these embodiments, one of the frame members of the pulley/gear housing is made attachable to a fixed structure at the work site so as to make that frame member remain fixed while the pulley system or the gear system disposed in the other frame member can be moved in the same way as it is done in case of the above discussed pulley system or gear system to move an elongated object by a single operator.

When introducing elements or features of the present disclosure and the exemplary embodiments, the articles "a", "an", "the" and "said" are intended to mean that there are one or more of such elements or features. The terms "comprising", "including" and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements or features other than those specifically noted. It is further to be understood that the method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

It is specifically intended that the present invention not be limited to the embodiments and illustrations contained herein and the claims should be understood to include modified forms of those embodiments including portions of the embodiments and combinations of elements of different embodiments as come within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

An elongated object handling device comprising:
a frame structure having a first part pivotally connected to a second part by a hinged structure to allow said first part and said second part to separate about said hinge structure to accommodate an elongated object in between said first part and said second part and to close about said hinge structure thereafter;
a gripping mechanism disposed inside said frame structure, said gripping mechanism comprising one or more gripping tools;
one or more gripping tool actuators configured to selectively engage said one or more gripping tools for application of a frictional grip on said elongated object or to selectively disengage said one or more gripping tools to release said frictional grip from said elongated object; and
one or more handles removably attached to said frame structure to allow one or more operators to move said elongated object handling device;
wherein, said movement of said elongated object handling device along with said application of frictional grip enables said one or more operators to carry said elongated object in a desired direction and said release of said frictional grip enables said one or more operators to move said elongated object handling device over said elongated object without moving said elongated object.
The elongated object handling device as in claim 1, wherein said frame structure is configured to alternatively receive different one or more gripping tools having different sizes or shapes for handling of said elongated object having different shapes or sizes.
The elongated object handling device as in claim 1, wherein said one or more handles have different shapes or sizes.
A pulley assisted elongated object handling device comprising;
a pulley housing having a first frame member and a second frame member, said first frame member and said second frame member disposed opposed to each other and spaced apart, said first frame member having a first receiver and said second frame member having a second receiver;
a pulley assembly disposed in said pulley housing, said pulley assembly comprising a first pulley mechanism disposed in said first frame member and an identical second pulley mechanism disposed in said second frame member, said first pulley mechanism operatively connected to said first receiver and said second pulley mechanism operatively connected to said second receiver;
an elongated object handling device configured to selectively apply a frictional grip to hold an elongated object and to selectively release said frictional grip, said elongated object handling device removably mounted in said pulley assembly; and
a first rowing handle removably attached to said first receiver and a second rowing handle removably attached to said second receiver;
wherein synchronized movements of said first rowing handle and said second rowing handle by a distance in same direction get transmitted through said pulley assembly to move said elongated object handling device by a second distance moving said elongated object by said second distance when said frictional grip is applied.
The pulley assisted elongated object handling device as in claim 4, wherein said second distance is changeable with respect to said first distance by changing number of pulleys or number of pulley rope count in said pulley assembly.
The pulley assisted elongated object handling device as in claim 5, wherein said changing of number of pulleys or number of pulley rope count in said pulley assembly enables change of mechanical advantage provided by said pulley assembly.
The pulley assisted elongated object handling device as in claim 4, wherein said release of said frictional grip allows movement of said pulley assisted elongated object handling device or movement of said elongated object handling device in a forward direction or in a backward direction over said elongated object without moving said elongated object.
A gear assisted elongated object handling device comprising;
a gear housing having a first frame member and a second frame member, said first frame member and said second frame member disposed opposed to each other and spaced apart, said first frame member having a first receiver and said second frame member having a second receiver;
a gear assembly disposed in said gear housing, said gear assembly comprising a first gear mechanism disposed in said first frame member and an identical second gear mechanism disposed in said second frame member, said first gear mechanism operatively connected to said first receiver and said second gear mechanism operatively connected to said second receiver;
an elongated object handling device configured to selectively apply a frictional grip to hold an elongated object and to selectively release said frictional grip, said elongated object handling device removably mounted in said gear assembly; and
a first rowing handle removably attached to said first receiver and a second rowing handle removably attached to said second receiver;
wherein synchronized movements of said first rowing handle and said second rowing handle by a distance get transmitted through said gear assembly to move said elongated object handling device by a second distance moving said elongated object by said second distance when said frictional grip is applied.
The gear assisted elongated object handling device as in claim 8, wherein a variable ratio transmission system included in said gear system enables changing of mechanical advantage provided by said gear system.
The gear assisted elongated object handling device as in claim 8, wherein said release of said frictional grip allows movement of said gear assisted elongated object handling device or movement of said elongated object handling device in a forward or a backward direction over said elongated object without moving said elongated object.
A remotely operable elongated object handling device comprising;
a mechanical advantage system;
one or more secondary roller assemblies attached to said mechanical advantage system;
an elongated object handling device configured to selectively apply a frictional grip to hold an elongated object and to selectively release said frictional grip, said elongated object handling device removably mounted in said mechanical advantage system; and
one or more ropes, one or more first ends of said one or more ropes attached to one or more receivers of said mechanical advantage system;
wherein pull exerted on one or more second ends of said one or more ropes make said elongated object handling device move by a distance moving said elongated object by said distance when said frictional grip is applied.
The remotely operable elongated object handling device as in claim 11, wherein said mechanical advantage system is a pulley system.
The remotely operable elongated object handling device as in claim 11, wherein said mechanical advantage system is a gear system.
The remotely operable elongated object handling device as in claim 11, wherein said release of said frictional grip allows movement of said mechanical advantage system or movement of said elongated object handling device in a forward or a backward direction over said elongated object without moving said elongated object.
A mechanically advantaged elongated object handling device comprising;
a mechanical advantage system; and
an elongated object handling device configured to selectively apply a frictional grip to hold an elongated object and to selectively release said frictional grip, said elongated object handling device removably mounted in said mechanical advantage system;
wherein a movement caused to said mechanical advantage system make said elongated object handling device to move in a desired direction causing said elongated object to move by a distance.
The mechanically advantaged elongated object handling device as in claim 15, wherein said mechanical advantage system provides a mechanical advantage through use of one or more pulleys.
The mechanically advantaged elongated object handling device as in claim 15, wherein said mechanical advantage system provides a mechanical advantage through use of one or more gears.
The mechanically advantaged elongated object handling device as in claim 15, wherein one or more handles are used to cause said movement of said mechanical advantage system.
The mechanically advantaged elongated object handling device as in claim 15, wherein said mechanical advantage system is operable by a single person.
The mechanically advantaged elongated object handling device as in claim 15, wherein said release of said frictional grip allows movement of said mechanical advantage system or movement of said elongated object handling device in a forward or a backward direction over said elongated object without moving said elongated object.