Loop installation tool, system and method of using said loop installation tool

Abstract

Embodiments relate to a loop installation tool (100), system (10), and method (200) for installing an elongate line (14) in a loop around an article (12). The loop installation tool (100) comprises first and second projections (104, 108) comprising first and second seats (128, 130) separated from each other by a gap (122). The loop installation tool (100) further comprises a latch (120) configured to be mounted to the first and second seats (128, 130) to span the gap (122), wherein the latch (120) is pivotable about the first seat (128) to a first open position and is pivotable about the second seat (130) to a second open position. The latch (120) comprises a securing device (124), which comprises an anti-feed formation (168) to resist or prevent feeding of a secured portion of the elongate line (14) through the securing device (124) when secured by the securing device (124).

Description

[0001] LOOP INSTALLATION TOOL AND SYSTEM

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a loop installation tool and system. In particular, but not exclusively, they relate to a wire rope loop installation tool and system.

[0004] BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0005] Elongate lines such as wire ropes are sometimes looped around beams, purlins, or rafters, to allow something to be suspended from the loop of wire rope. The wire rope extends in a loop around the beam, and through a choke / eye at one end of the wire rope to create a sling.

[0006] Typically, an installer would need to ascend to the beam on a scissor lift, ladder, or cherry picker, for example. This would involve repeatedly ascending and descending, and incrementally moving the ladder or lift if multiple wire ropes need to be looped. Furthermore, the use of ladders or lifts involves working from height.

[0007] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] According to various, but not necessarily all, embodiments of the invention there is provided a loop installation tool for installing an elongate line in a loop around an article, the loop installation tool comprising: an elongate handle; a first projection and a second projection towards one end of the elongate handle and defining an internal space therebetween, wherein the first projection comprises a first seat and the second projection comprises a second seat, wherein the first seat and second seat are separated from each other by a gap defining an entrance; and wherein the loop installation tool further comprises a latch configured to be mounted to the first and second seats to span the gap, wherein the latch is pivotable about the first seat to a first open position and is pivotable about the second seat to a second open position, and wherein the latch comprises a securing device to secure a portion of the elongate line, wherein the securing device comprises an anti-feed formation to resist or prevent feeding of the secured portion of the elongate line through the securing device when secured by the securing device.

[0009] This provides the advantage of a convenient one-handed tool for installing a loop of elongate line (e.g., wire rope) on an article beyond arm’s length such as an overhead beam, purlin, or rafter. The tool obviates the need for ladders, scissor lifts, cherry pickers, steps, or scaffolding. The tool allows one-handed operation because the securing device fixedly secures a portion (e.g., tail) of the elongate line, so that the user does not have to grasp any part of the elongate article. A method of using the tool is described below.

[0010] According to various, but not necessarily all, embodiments of the invention there is provided a loop installation system comprising the loop installation tool and the elongate line, wherein the elongate line comprises an eye and a tail, and wherein the second projection and the latch are dimensioned to fit through the eye of the elongate line. Optionally, the system further com prises the article.

[0011] According to various, but not necessarily all, embodiments of the invention there is provided a method of using the loop installation tool or system to form an elongate line into a loop around an article, the elongate line comprising an eye and a tail, the method comprising: feeding the second projection through an eye of the elongate line; securing the tail of the elongate line to the securing device of the latch; pivoting the latch about the first seat to the first open position and capturing the article within the internal space, wherein once the article has entered the internal space the latch is closed, wherein when the latch is closed the latch is mounted on the first and second seats; pivoting the latch about the second seat to the second open position and removing the loop installation tool from the article, wherein removing the loop installation tool comprises withdrawing the second projection and the latch, which is open and mounted to the second seat, through the eye of the elongate line until the secured tail of the elongate line extends through the eye of the elongate line; releasing or cutting the tail of the elongate line from the securing device of the latch, wherein the tail extends through the eye and is looped around the article; and pulling the tail of the elongate line to tighten the loop to a desired size.

[0012] In the above method, the tail loops around the article because the latch with the tail attached thereto pivots initially about the first seat, to pass a first lateral side of the article. The latch with the tail attached thereto then pivots about the second seat to a second lateral side of the article to initiate the loop.

[0013] Optionally, the elongate line is formed from metal.

[0014] Optionally, the elongate line is a wire rope. Optionally, the eye is a crimped eye, spliced eye, knotted eye, hook, or karabiner.

[0015] Optionally, the tail of the elongate line comprises a bare end opposite the eye. Alternatively, the opposite end of the elongate line may comprise a further eye.

[0016] Alternatively, the elongate line is another type of rope or is a monofilament. Optionally, the article is an overhead article. Optionally, the article comprises a beam, purlin, or rafter.

[0017] Optionally, the latch is pivotable about the first seat in an inwards direction into the internal space to the first open position and is pivotable about the second seat in an outwards direction away from the internal space to the second open position.

[0018] Optionally, pivoting the latch to the first open position and capturing the article within the internal space comprises pushing the latch against the article, causing the latch to pivot inwardly about the first seat into the internal space to the first open position allowing the article to enter the internal space through the gap. An advantage is that the latch does not have to be separately actuated. Alternatively, the latch may be separately actuated.

[0019] Optionally, pivoting the latch to the second open position and removing the loop installation tool from the article comprises pulling the latch against the article in the internal space, causing the latch to pivot outwardly about the second seat away from the internal space to the second open position allowing the article to exit the internal space through the gap. An advantage is that the latch does not have to be separately actuated, because the article opens the latch. In examples, an advantage is that merely pushing and pulling the latch of the loop installation tool against the article is sufficient to capture and release the article.

[0020] Optionally, the internal space of the loop installation tool is dimensioned to receive the whole article while providing space for the latch to close from the first open position while the whole article is within the internal space. For example, lengths of the first and second projections may define a height of the internal space of the loop installation tool, wherein the lengths and the height may be greater than a width of the gap. This may provide the space for the latch to close. In some examples, the length or separation of the first and second projections is adjustable. This advantageously allows the user to customise the tool for larger or smaller articles.

[0021] Optionally, the latch at the second open position is generally parallel to the second projection. Optionally, the latch at the second open position is generally coaxial with the second projection. An advantage is that the second projection and latch at the second open position can be fed through the eye of the elongate line without snagging.

[0022] Optionally, the second projection has a constant or varying cross-section dimensioned to fit through the eye of the elongate line, the cross-section extending the full length of the second seat and beyond the second seat to enable the second projection to slide through the eye of the elongate line at least until the eye is beyond the second seat.

[0023] Optionally, the loop installation tool comprises a base extending transverse to the first and second projections, and connecting the first and second projections.

[0024] Optionally, the base comprises a transverse region extending transverse to the second projection. Optionally, the second projection and the transverse region of the base have a constant or varying cross-section dimensioned to fit through the eye of the elongate line, enabling the eye of the elongate line to reach the transverse region of the base. Optionally, the transverse region is generally perpendicular to the second projection. An advantage of the transverse region of the base is that the eye can be secured here and is less likely to slip off before the loop around the article has been formed.

[0025] Optionally, the base comprises a transitional shoulder connecting the transverse region of the base to the second projection, wherein the transitional shoulder curves or slopes from the transverse region of the base to the second projection. An advantage is that the eye of the elongate line is guided on and off the transverse region of the base without being snagged, which may otherwise occur if there is a severe angle between the second projection and the transverse region of the base.

[0026] Optionally, the base and the first and second projections and the gap define a U-shaped hook covered by the latch.

[0027] Optionally, the end of the elongate handle is mounted to the base of the hook between the first and second projections, the first and second projections being offset to opposite lateral sides of the elongate handle. Optionally, the transitional shoulder of the base extends from the end portion of the elongate handle to the second projection. Alternatively, one of the projections is coaxial with the elongate handle. The elongate handle may continue past the base to define one of the projections.

[0028] Optionally, the gap faces away from the elongate handle. Optionally, the gap extends transverse to a length axis of one or each of the first and second projections. Optionally, the gap extends transverse to a length axis of the elongate handle. Optionally, the gap extends perpendicular to the length axis / axes. Optionally, the first and second projections extend generally parallel to each other. Optionally, the first and second projections extend away from the elongate handle. Optionally, the first and second projections extend generally parallel to the elongate handle and away from the elongate handle.

[0029] Optionally, the latch has a constant or varying cross-section dimensioned to fit through the eye of the elongate line, the cross-section extending the full length of the latch including the securing device to enable the latch to slide through the eye of the elongate line until the eye reaches the second projection. Optionally, the cross-section has a maximum dimension less than or equal to 25mm along the entire length of cross-section.

[0030] Optionally, the loop installation tool is configured to bias the latch towards a closed position after the latch has pivoted about the first seat to the first open position. An advantage is that the latch will return to the closed position after capturing the article, while the latch is beyond arm’s reach of the user.

[0031] In a first example, a portion of the latch overhangs the first seat when the latch is closed to position a centre of mass of the latch outboard of the first and second seats. Optionally, the portion comprises the securing device. In a second example, the bias comprises a return spring.

[0032] Optionally, the first seat comprises a first detent arrangement (arrangement = one or more) to pivotably hold the latch. Optionally, the latch comprises a first lug arrangement to engage with the first detent arrangement of the first seat.

[0033] Optionally, the first seat comprises a first lug slot arrangement extending from an end / tip of the first projection to the first detent arrangement, allowing the first lug arrangement of the latch to disengage from the first detent arrangement when pivoting the latch about the second seat to the second open position, and to engage with the first detent arrangement when closing the latch from the second open position.

[0034] Optionally, the second seat comprises a second detent arrangement to pivotably hold the latch. Optionally, the latch comprises a second lug arrangement to engage with the second detent arrangement of the second seat.

[0035] Optionally, the second seat comprises a second lug slot arrangement extending from the second detent arrangement to the internal space, allowing the second lug arrangement of the latch to disengage from the second detent arrangement when pivoting the latch about the first seat to the first open position, and to engage with the second detent arrangement when closing the latch from the first open position.

[0036] Optionally, the second lug slot arrangement is elongate and curved about a centre of curvature which is generally aligned with an axis of the first seat.

[0037] Optionally, the second lug slot arrangement is configured to prevent the latch when closed from being pivoted about the first seat in a direction away from the first open position. Optionally, the second lug slot arrangement is separated from an end / tip of the second projection, to prevent the second lug arrangement from reaching the end / tip of the second projection.

[0038] Optionally, the latch comprises an elongate barrier to cover the gap, wherein the securing device is connected to the elongate barrier.

[0039] Optionally, the securing device is connected to an end of the elongate barrier. Optionally, the securing device is generally coaxial with the elongate barrier. Optionally, the securing device is configured to secure the tail of the elongate line at an orientation in which the tail extends generally coaxially with the elongate barrier.

[0040] Optionally, the first seat is open at a tip of the first projection, to receive a first end of the elongate barrier of the latch. Optionally, the second seat is open at a tip of the second projection, to receive a second opposite end of the elongate barrier of the latch.

[0041] Optionally, the first projection comprises a first slot open at the tip of the first projection to receive the first end of the elongate barrier of the latch. Optionally, the second projection comprises a second slot open at the tip of the second projection to receive the second end of the elongate barrier of the latch. Optionally, the first seat comprises a bottom wall underlying the latch when the latch is closed, to prevent the latch when closed from being pivoted about the second seat in a direction away from the second open position. The bottom wall may prevent the latch from being pivoted inwardly from the first seat into the internal space.

[0042] Optionally, the second seat comprises an elongate channel formed through the tip of the second projection, allowing the latch to pivot about the first seat inwardly into the internal space to the first open position. Optionally, the elongate channel of the second seat comprises the second lug slot arrangement extending from the second detent arrangement to the internal space.

[0043] Optionally, the first and second seats each define a rotation axis, wherein the rotation axes are parallel to each other. Optionally, the rotation axes extend generally perpendicularly to a plane in which the first and second projections extend.

[0044] Optionally, the securing device comprises a clamping device, wherein the antifeed formation comprises a clamping member of the clamping device. Optionally, the clamping member is in the form of a clamp.

[0045] Optionally, the clamping device comprises a clamp and a spring to urge the clamp against the tail. Optionally, the clamping device comprises a plurality of the clamps, arranged to be urged against the tail by the spring. Optionally, the spring is configured to urge the clamp in a first direction along a tapering passage to force the clamp into a narrowing space between the tapering passage and a side of the tail of the elongate line. Alternatively, a different type of securing device may be used, such as a clip. An advantage of the spring and tapering passage is that the tail of the elongate line can be freely pushed into the clamping device against the force of the spring. Once inside the tapering passage, the tail is automatically clamped against pullout. If the tail is pulled, this will merely increase the normal force between the clamp and the tail.

[0046] Optionally, the clamping device comprises a release input to release the tail of the elongate line from the clamping device. Alternatively, the user cuts the tail of the elongate line.

[0047] Optionally, the release input is configured to move the clamp against a force of the spring in a second opposite direction of the tapering passage, to a wider space within the tapering passage, to allow release of the tail of the elongate line from the clamping device while the release input is actuated. Optionally, the release input is a manual release input such as a push button.

[0048] Optionally, the clamp is mounted to a carriage and the spring is mounted to the carriage to slide the carriage along the tapering passage. Alternatively, the spring is directly mounted to the clamp.

[0049] Optionally, the carriage comprises a sleeve along which the elongate article extends, wherein the clamp protrudes into a space of the sleeve. Optionally, the sleeve extends generally coaxially with the latch. Optionally, a portion of the carriage protrudes through an opening / aperture of the clamping device to define the release input. An advantage is that the carriage can be pushed to move the carriage to a wider space of the tapering passage, releasing the clamp from the side of the tail.

[0050] Optionally, the clamping device comprises a body comprising an interior cavity accessed through an opening. Optionally, the body has a rounded perimeter dimensioned to fit through the eye of the elongate line. This is because the clamping device forms part of the latch which is pulled through the eye of the elongate line.

[0051] Optionally, the aperture of the body is generally coaxial with the latch. This ensures that the tail of the elongate line is generally parallel to the latch.

[0052] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0053] For a better understanding of various examples of embodiments of the present invention reference will now be made by way of example only to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0054] FIGS. 1A-1 C illustrates frontal views of an example loop installation tool, with its latch in a closed position, a first open position, and a second open position, respectively;

[0055] FIG. 2 illustrates a flowchart of an example method of using the loop installation tool;

[0056] FIGS. 3A-3F illustrate views of a loop installation system in which the loop installation tool is used according to the method of FIG. 2;

[0057] FIG. 4 illustrates a detail perspective view of first and second seats for the latch; FIG. 5 illustrates a side cross-section view of an example clamping device for the loop installation tool; and

[0058] FIG. 6 illustrates an example alternative securing device for the loop installation tool.

[0059] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0060] The Figures illustrate a loop installation system 10 comprising a loop installation tool 100, and an elongate line in the form of a steel wire rope 14 I wire rope sling. These parts may be supplied together. Optionally, the loop installation system 10 further comprises an article in the form of an overhead beam 12. In some, but not necessarily all examples, the overhead beam 12 may support a cable tray or other suspended ceiling service. An example overhead beam 12 has a cross-section width less than 42mm or less than 60mm, and / or a crosssection height less than 42mm or less than 60mm. Alternatively, the overhead beam 12 may comprise a purlin or a rafter.

[0061] The wire rope 14 comprises a crimped eye 16 / choke at one end, and a tail 18 extending from the eye 16 to an end.

[0062] The loop installation tool 100 comprises an elongate handle 102 extending in a longitudinal direction, the end of which is connected to the base 112 of a U- shaped hook.

[0063] In some, but not necessarily all examples, the elongate handle 102 has a length of 50-200cm, such as approximately 0.8 to 1.5 metres.

[0064] The U-shaped hook is defined by the base 112, and a first projection 104 and second projection 108 connected to each other by the base 112. The end of the elongate handle 102 is connected to a centre of the base 112 such that the first and second projections 104, 108 define tines of a two-pronged fork shape.

[0065] The base 112 comprises a transverse region 114 extending in a lateral direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The first and second projections 104, 108 extend in the longitudinal direction away from the elongate handle 102. The second projection 108 and optionally also the first projection 104 is / are connected to the transverse region 114 of the base 112 by a curved transitional shoulder 116.

[0066] In another embodiment, the hook is Y-shaped, wherein the elongate handle 102 continues past the base 112 and forms one of the projections 104, 108. The base 112 and the other projection would be mounted to the side of the elongate handle 102.

[0067] The first and second projections 104, 108 and the base 112 define a U-shaped internal space 118 therebetween, at the end of which is a gap 122 defining an entrance to the internal space 118.

[0068] The width of the gap 122 is greater than the cross-section width of the overhead beam 12. For example, the width of the gap 122 may optionally be greater than 42mm or greater than 60mm. Optionally, a height of the internal space 118 (lengths of the first and second projections 104, 108) is at least 70mm.

[0069] Optionally, one or both of the first and second projections 104, 108 are extendable or movable, to allow the height of the internal space 118 to be changed, and / or to allow the width of the internal space 118 and / or gap 122 to be changed. This advantageously allows the user to customise the tool for larger or smaller articles.

[0070] The gap 122 is covered by a latch 120. The latch 120 extends between a first seat 128 at the tip 106 of the first projection 104 and a second seat 130 at the tip 110 of the second projection 108. The latch 120 covers the gap 122 when in a closed position as shown in FIG. 1A. The latch 120 in the closed position extends in the lateral direction, perpendicularly to the first and second projections 104, 108.

[0071] The latch 120 comprises an elongate barrier 126 which covers the gap 122.

[0072] The first seat 128 defines a first hinge for the latch 120 and the second seat 130 defines a second hinge for the latch 120. The latch 120 is releasably connected to each hinge, and can be pivoted or swung open about either one of the hinges at a given time. When the latch 120 is closed, the latch 120 will re-seat on the other hinge and can then be swung open about the other hinge.

[0073] For example, FIG. 1 B illustrates the latch 120 having pivoted inwardly about the first seat 128 into the internal space 118 to a first open position. In this configuration, a first end region of the elongate barrier 126 of the latch 120 is a hinged end and a second end region of the elongate barrier 126 of the latch 120 is a free end.

[0074] FIG. 1 C illustrates the latch 120 having pivoted outwardly about the second seat 130 away from the internal space 118 to a second open position in which the latch 120 extends parallel to the second projection 108, in the longitudinal direction. In this configuration, the first end region of the elongate barrier 126 of the latch 120 is a free end and the second end region of the elongate barrier 126 of the latch 120 is a hinged end.

[0075] The latch 120 is provided with a securing device in the form of a clamping device 124 connected to one end of the elongate barrier 126 of the latch 120, and coaxial with the elongate barrier 126 of the latch 120. The clamping device 124 is configured to engage I anchor the end of the tail 18 of the wire rope 14. This allows a user standing on ground level to use the loop installation tool 100 to loop the wire rope 14 around the overhead beam 12 without the user needing to grasp any part of the wire rope 14. Therefore, the user can use the loop installation tool 100 one-handed if they prefer. Of course, the user could grasp the elongate handle 102 with both hands to minimise wobble and reduce fatigue.

[0076] A method 200 of operation is described below in relation to FIG. 2 and FIGS. 3A-3F. The method 200 of FIG. 2 starts with block 202, which comprises feeding the second projection 108 through the eye 16 of the wire rope 14.

[0077] The result is shown in FIG. 3A. The second projection 108 and the base 112 have a small enough cross-section (e.g., maximum dimension <25mm) that the eye 16 of the wire rope 14 can be fed to the transverse region 114 of the base 112 of the hook, to prevent it from slipping off as the loop installation tool 100 is pushed and pulled in the longitudinal direction. This step can be performed by the user while standing at ground level.

[0078] Block 204 of the method 200 comprises securing the tail 18 of the wire rope 14 to the clamping device 124 of the latch 120. The manner of securing depends on the type of clamping device 124 which is used. In an example, the tail 18 is secured by pushing the bare end of the tail 18 of the wire rope 14 into an aperture (FIG. 5) formed in an end of the latch 120.

[0079] The result is shown in FIG. 3A, where the tail 18 of the wire rope 14 extends out of one end of the latch 120 in the lateral direction, while the opposite end of the wire rope 14 is connected to the transverse region 114 of the base 112 of the hook.

[0080] Block 206 of the method 200 comprises pivoting the latch 120 to the first open position and capturing the overhead beam 12 within the internal space 118. As shown in FIG. 3B, this is achieved in one operation by picking up the loop installation tool 100 and using the elongate handle 102 to position the hook so that the latch 120 is touching the overhead beam 12, then pushing the loop installation tool 100 upwardly and towards the overhead beam 12. This causes the overhead beam 12 to pivot the latch 120 inwardly about the first seat 128 towards the internal space 118 to the first open position, allowing the overhead beam 12 to enter the internal space 118 through the gap 122. The user keeps moving the hook of the loop installation tool 100 until the overhead beam 12 is wholly inside the internal space 118. Once the overhead beam 12 has wholly entered the internal space 118 and slipped past the latch 120, the latch 120 is closed by swinging back to the closed position shown in FIG. 3C (also FIGS. 1A and 3A).

[0081] Since this step cannot be performed by the user with the latch 120 above arm’s reach of the user, a biasing means is provided to ensure that the latch 120 selfcloses from the first open position. In examples, this is achieved by positioning the centre of mass of the latch 120 slightly outboard of the first seat 128. Therefore, the latch 120 will rotate back to the closed position. The centre of mass is outboard of the first seat 128 because the relatively heavy clamping device 124 of the latch 120 overhangs the first seat 128.

[0082] However, in other embodiments, a dedicated return spring may be provided as the biasing means. In still further embodiments, a mechanism may open and / or close the latch 120, operated by at least one user input device such as a button arrangement on the elongate handle 102.

[0083] As shown in FIGS. 3B and 3C, the tail 18 of the wire rope 14 now passes over the top of the overhead beam 12, to the left side of the overhead beam 12 (the side of the first projection 104). The tail 18 of the wire rope 14 now needs to be brought across the top of the overhead beam 12 to the right side of the overhead beam 12.

[0084] To start this process, block 208 of the method 200 comprises pivoting the latch 120 about the second seat 130 to the second open position and removing I withdrawing the loop installation tool 100 from the overhead beam 12. As shown in FIG. 3D, this is achieved in one operation by pulling the loop installation tool 100 away from the overhead beam 12, bringing the latch 120 into contact with the overhead beam 12. As the loop installation tool 100 is pulled, the overhead beam 12 will urge against the latch 120, causing the latch 120 to pivot outwardly about the second seat 130 away from the internal space 118 to the second open position. This allows the overhead beam 12 to exit the internal space 118 through the gap 122.

[0085] Because the latch 120 has now pivoted about the other, second seat 130 (second hinge) located to the right side of the overhead beam 12, the entire latch 120 and therefore the clamping device 124 and secured end of the tail 18 of the wire rope 14 have been moved over to the right side of the overhead beam 12. This initiates the formation of a loop around the top of the overhead beam 12.

[0086] The user continues to withdraw the loop installation tool 100 away from the overhead beam 12 as shown in FIG. 3E. This builds up tension in the wire rope 14 which is fixed to the latch 120 and to the eye 16 at its opposite ends, and wrapped around the overhead beam 12. As shown in FIG. 3E, the eye 16 starts to slide back from the transverse region 114 of the base 112, around the transitional shoulder 116 (this may require some manipulation of the loop installation tool 100), and along the second projection 108. The eye 16 will slide up the second projection 108 until it reaches the latch 120. The latch 120 remains at the second open position due to the tension in the wire rope 14 holding it up, so the eye 16 will slide over the elongate barrier 126 and clamping device 124 of the latch 120 while the loop installation tool 100 gets further away from the overhead beam 12.

[0087] Then, as shown in FIG. 3F, the eye 16 of the wire rope 14 will be looped around the tail 18 of the wire rope 14. Now, there is a loop of wire rope 14 around the overhead beam 12 and through its own eye 16.

[0088] The tail 18 of the wire rope 14 is still secured to the clamping device 124 and needs to be removed. Block 210 of the method 200 comprises releasing the tail 18 of the wire rope 14 from the clamping device 124 of the latch 120. The tail 18 of the wire rope 14 may be released from the clamping device 124 by an appropriate release input as described below, or may alternatively be cut.

[0089] Block 212 of the method 200 comprises pulling the tail 18 of the wire rope 14 to tighten the loop to the desired size. As the tail 18 is pulled, the eye 16 will slide further up the wire rope 14 towards the overhead beam 12, to reduce the size of the loop around the overhead beam 12.

[0090] Therefore, the loop installation tool 100 allows one-handed operation for creating a loop around the overhead beam 12.

[0091] FIG. 4 is a detail view of the first and second seats 128, 130, illustrating means for ensuring that the latch 120 can disconnect from each seat when required and rotates in the directions shown in the Figures.

[0092] The first seat 128 is illustrated as a first slot 132 formed in the tip 106 of the first projection 104. The second seat 130 is illustrated as a second slot 134 formed in the tip 110 of the second projection 108.

[0093] The first seat 128 comprises first detents 140 to pivotably hold first lugs 142 (e.g., domes) of the elongate barrier 126 of the latch 120. The first lugs 142 protrude from left and right sides of the elongate barrier 126 of the latch 120, proximal to the first end of the elongate barrier 126. To enable release of the latch 120 from the first seat 128 to permit outwards pivoting about the second seat 130 to the second open position, first lug slots 144 connect the first detents 140 to the tip 106 of the first projection 104 but not to the internal space 118 of the hook. The first lug slots 144 are recessed channels formed in the side walls of the first seat 128, to allow the first lugs 142 to slide out of the first detents 140. The first lug slots 144 may be slightly shallower than the first detents 140, to assist with retention of the first lugs 142 in the first detents 140. To prevent the latch 120 from being pivoted about the second seat 130 in the wrong direction (i.e., inwardly into the internal space 118), the first seat 128 comprises a bottom wall 136 formed in the first projection 104, which underlies the latch 120 when the latch 120 is in the closed position. The bottom wall 136 creates an interference which prevents the latch 120 from being released from the first seat 128 and pivoted about the second seat 130 in an inwards direction into the internal space 118 of the hook.

[0094] The second seat 130 comprises an elongate channel 138 formed through the tip 110 of the second projection 108 and along an interior side of the second projection 108, the interior side of the second projection 108 facing the internal space 118, allowing the latch 120 to pivot about the first seat 128 inwardly into the internal space 118 to the first open position.

[0095] The second seat 130 further comprises second detents 146 to pivotably hold second lugs 148 (e.g., domes) of the elongate barrier 126 of the latch 120. The second lugs 148 protrude from the left and right sides of the elongate barrier 126 of the latch 120, proximal to the second end of the elongate barrier 126. To enable release of the latch 120 from the second seat 130 to permit inwards pivoting about the first seat 128 (DETAIL A), second lug slots 150 connect the second detents 146 to the internal space 118 of the hook but not to the tip 110 of the second projection 108. The second lug slots 150 are curved recessed channels formed in the side walls of the second slot 134 and elongate channel 138, to allow the second lugs 148 to slide out of the second detents 146. The second lug slots 150 may be slightly shallower than the second detents 146, to assist with retention of the second lugs 148 in the second detents 146.

[0096] Since the illustrated elongate channel 138 and second lug slots 150 are long, the second lug slots 150 at least are curved about a centre of curvature coaxial with the axis of rotation of the first seat 128. The curvature of the second lug slots corresponds to the arc shaped path in which the second lugs 148 on the latch 120 travel when the latch 120 is pivoted inwardly to the first open position.

[0097] Turning now to the clamping device 124, FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-section view inside the latch 120, revealing an example clamping device 124. The illustrated clamping device 124 allows non-destructive release of the wire rope 14, and facilitates one-handed operation of the loop installation tool 100.

[0098] The clamping device 124 comprises a small tubular body 154 within which is an interior cavity 156 containing a clamping mechanism. The clamping device 124 has a small tubular cross-section, so that the eye 16 of the wire rope 14 can be slid over the clamping device 124 as required between FIGS. 3E and FIG. 3F. The body 154 of the clamping device 124 is connected to or integrally formed with the elongate barrier 126 of the latch 120, and is connected to the smaller cross-section of the elongate barrier 126 via a transitional surface which provides a smooth, snag-free surface for the eye 16 of the wire rope 14 to slide along.

[0099] The interior cavity 156 is accessed through an opening 158 I aperture which extends in the lateral direction, coaxially / parallel with the elongate barrier 126 of the latch 120. The opening 158 faces away from the hook.

[0100] In use, the bare end of the wire rope 14 is pushed through the opening 158 and into the interior cavity 156 to engage with the clamping mechanism.

[0101] The interior cavity 156 is a blind cavity, having only one opening 158 able to accommodate a wire rope 14. The blind interior cavity 156 therefore defines an anti-feed-in formation to resist or prevent further / continued feeding of the wire rope 14 into the clamping device 124 after the tail 18 of the wire rope 14 has been inserted a predetermined distance into the clamping device 124. The body 154 of the clamping device 124 I latch 120 comprises a tapering passage 160 defining a boundary of the interior cavity 156. The tapering passage 160 may be sloped towards the opening 158 by an angle of between 5 to 30 degrees, for example. Optionally, the tapering passage 160 may be circular in cross-section when viewed from the end, and has a decreasing radius with increasing proximity to the opening 158.

[0102] The clamping mechanism comprises a carriage 162 which is bidirectionally slidable in the lateral direction along the tapering passage 160. The carriage 162 comprises a sleeve 164 extending in the lateral direction. The wire rope 14 extends along the sleeve 164. The carriage 162 has one or more through-holes around its inner circumference, each hole extending to the sleeve 164. Each through-hole supports a clamping member (clamp) in the form of a ball bearing 168, one of which is shown in FIG. 5.

[0103] An internal spring 166 is mounted at one end to the body 154 of the clamping device 124 I latch 120 and at the other end to the carriage 162, to urge the carriage 162 towards the opening 158. As the carriage 162 slides towards the opening 158, the ball bearings 168 roll along the tapering passage 160 and become closer to each other to define a narrowing gap therebetween. When the wire rope 14 is located between the ball bearings 168, the ball bearings 168 will exert a normal force on the side of the wire rope 14.

[0104] When the tail 18 of the wire rope 14 is inserted into the clamping device 124, the wire rope 14 pushes against the ball bearing(s) 168 which compresses the spring 166, therefore sliding the carriage 162 into a wider part of the tapering passage 160. This allows the ball bearing(s) 168 to spread out, enabling the wire rope 14 to be accommodated between the ball bearings 168.

[0105] However, if the tail 18 of the wire rope 14 is subsequently pulled away from the clamping device 124, the carriage 162 and ball bearings 168 will be pulled along with the wire rope 14 into the narrower part of the tapering passage 160, further increasing the normal force exerted by the ball bearings 168 on the wire rope 14. Therefore, the ball bearings 168 clamp the wire rope 14.

[0106] Therefore, the ball bearing(s) 168 define an anti-feed-out formation to resist or prevent pulling of the tail 18 of the inserted wire rope 14 out of the clamping device 124.

[0107] The clamping device 124 comprises a release input in the form of a protruding end of the carriage 162, which protrudes through the opening 158 to act as an external release button. When the user pushes the protruding end of the carriage 162 into the opening 158, the carriage 162 slides into a wider part of the tapering passage 160 to remove the clamping force. Therefore, while the user continues pushing the carriage 162, the tail 18 of the wire rope 14 can be pulled out of the clamping device 124.

[0108] In some alternative embodiments, the clamps comprise one or more wedges or rollers.

[0109] In some alternative embodiments, the carriage 162 is omitted and the spring 166 directly urges a clamp, which slides along a sloped wall of the tapering passage 160 to wedge the wire rope 14 between the clamp and a straight wall of the tapering passage 160.

[0110] In some alternative embodiments, the clamping device 124 is not tubular.

[0111] In further alternative embodiments, a different type of clamping device 124 is used to anchor the tip / end of the tail 18 of the wire rope 14, for example a clip. However, the illustrated clamping device 124 is particularly useful because one hand can hold the loop installation tool 100 while the other hand inserts the wire rope 14 into the clamping device 124, and clamping is automatic so there is no need for an extra hand to manually operate some form of clamping mechanism.

[0112] It would be appreciated that it is not essential for the illustrated clamping device 124 to be located at a particular end of the latch 120. The clamping device 124 could be located anywhere on the latch 120 and a loop can still be formed. However, the illustrated position of the clamping device 124 has several benefits including the offsetting of the centre of mass of the latch 120 to provide self-closing action, as described earlier. Another benefit is that the tail 18 of the wire rope 14 will extend parallel to the latch 120, so the second projection 108, latch 120, and tail 18 of the wire rope 14 all form a generally straight line as shown in FIGS. 3E-3F along which the eye 16 can be easily slid.

[0113] FIG. 6 illustrates an alternative embodiment in which a securing device 124B other than a clamping device is provided. The securing device 124B comprises a body 172 in the form of a plate, the body 172 mounted or integrally formed with the elongate barrier 126 of the latch 120 and comprising a pair of spaced holes 174 acting as guides / conduits for the tail 18 of the wire rope 14.

[0114] The tail 18 of the wire rope 14 passes through one of the holes 174 from a first side to a second side of the securing device 124B in a first direction, and then passes through the other hole 174 from the second side to the first side of the securing device 124B in a second opposite direction, to form a loop.

[0115] The holes 174 are sized, spaced, and orientated to define an anti-feed formation that resists feeding of the elongate line through the securing device 124B. Specifically, the holes 174 are small, close to each other, and face in generally the same direction, therefore creating a tight bend in the wire rope between the holes 174. The resilience of the wire rope 14 combined with the tight bend creates enough friction to resist or prevent the wire rope 14 from sliding in either direction. Furthermore, the holes 174 face transverse to the longitudinal direction, to further increase resistance to sliding of the wire rope 14 through the holes 174 as the loop installation tool 100 is pushed and pulled in the longitudinal direction.

[0116] In another embodiment, the holes 174 are replaced with another type of guide such as one or more hooks, arranged as an anti-feed formation to force the wire rope 14 into a shape that resists feeding of the wire rope 14.

[0117] In summary, the embodiments above include a first anti-feed formation 124 that comprises one or more clamping members 168 (e.g., FIG. 5), and a second different anti-feed formation 124B (FIG. 6) that forces the wire rope 14 into a shape that resists feeding of the wire rope 14. The specific geometry or mechanism of the securing device may vary from the illustrated examples.

[0118] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in the preceding paragraphs with reference to various examples, it should be appreciated that modifications to the examples given can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as claimed. For example, although the illustrated latch 120 is passively operated, an electrical actuator or mechanism could be provided for opening 158 and / or closing the latch 120, which is operated by a user input control such as a button. In such an implementation, the latch 120 may pivot either inwardly or outwardly about the first seat 128 and may pivot either outwardly or inwardly about the second seat 130.

[0119] Although the illustrated wire rope 14 has an eye 16 at only one end, in other examples the wire rope 14 may comprise an eye 16 at each end. A different type of securing device may be used, comprising a fixing point for securing one of the eyes 16 of the wire rope 14. The fixing point also functions as an antifeed formation. Features described in the preceding description may be used in combinations other than the combinations explicitly described.

[0120] Although functions have been described with reference to certain features, those functions may be performable by other features whether described or not.

[0121] Although features have been described with reference to certain embodiments, those features may also be present in other embodiments whether described or not.

[0122] Whilst endeavouring in the foregoing specification to draw attention to those features of the invention believed to be of particular importance it should be understood that the Applicant claims protection in respect of any patentable feature or combination of features hereinbefore referred to and / or shown in the drawings whether or not particular emphasis has been placed thereon.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A loop installation tool for installing an elongate line in a loop around an article, the loop installation tool comprising: an elongate handle; a first projection and a second projection towards one end of the elongate handle and defining an internal space therebetween, wherein the first projection comprises a first seat and the second projection comprises a second seat, wherein the first seat and second seat are separated from each other by a gap defining an entrance; and wherein the loop installation tool further comprises a latch configured to be mounted to the first and second seats to span the gap, wherein the latch is pivotable about the first seat to a first open position and is pivotable about the second seat to a second open position, and wherein the latch comprises a securing device to secure a portion of the elongate line, and wherein the securing device comprises an anti-feed formation to resist or prevent feeding of the secured portion of the elongate line through the securing device when secured by the securing device.

2. The loop installation tool of claim 1 , wherein the latch is pivotable about the first seat in an inwards direction into the internal space to the first open position and is pivotable about the second seat in an outwards direction away from the internal space to the second open position.

3. The loop installation tool of claim 1 or 2, comprising a base extending transverse to the first and second projections, and connecting the first and second projections.

4. The loop installation tool of claim 1 , 2, or 3, wherein the base and the first and second projections and the gap define a U-shaped hook covered by the latch.

5. The loop installation tool of any preceding claim, configured to bias the latch towards a closed position after the latch has pivoted about the first seat to the first open position.

6. The loop installation tool of any preceding claim, wherein the first seat comprises a first detent arrangement to pivotably hold the latch, and wherein the latch comprises a first lug arrangement to engage with the first detent arrangement of the first seat.

7. The loop installation tool of claim 6, wherein the first seat comprises a first lug slot arrangement extending from an end of the first projection to the first detent arrangement, allowing the first lug arrangement of the latch to disengage from the first detent arrangement when pivoting the latch about the second seat to the second open position, and to engage with the first detent arrangement when closing the latch from the second open position.

8. The loop installation tool of any preceding claim, wherein the second seat comprises a second detent arrangement to pivotably hold the latch, and wherein the latch comprises a second lug arrangement to engage with the second detent arrangement of the second seat.

9. The loop installation tool of claim 8, wherein the second seat comprises a second lug slot arrangement extending from the second detent arrangement to the internal space, allowing the second lug arrangement of the latch to disengage from the second detent arrangement when pivoting the latch about the first seat to the first open position, and to engage with the second detent arrangement when closing the latch from the first open position.

10. The loop installation tool of claim 9, wherein the second lug slot arrangement is elongate and curved about a centre of curvature which is aligned with an axis of the first seat.

11. The loop installation tool of claim 9 or 10, wherein the second lug slot arrangement is configured to prevent the latch when closed from being pivoted about the first seat in a direction away from the first open position.

12. The loop installation tool of any preceding claim, wherein the latch comprises an elongate barrier to cover the gap, and wherein the securing device is connected to the elongate barrier.

13. The loop installation tool of claim 12, wherein the securing device is connected to an end of the elongate barrier.

14. The loop installation tool of claim 12 or 13, wherein the first seat is open at a tip of the first projection, to receive a first end of the elongate barrier of the latch, and / or wherein the second seat is open at a tip of the second projection, to receive a second opposite end of the elongate barrier of the latch.

15. The loop installation tool of any preceding claim, wherein the first seat comprises a bottom wall underlying the latch when the latch is closed, to prevent the latch when closed from being pivoted about the second seat in a direction away from the second open position.

16. The loop installation tool of any preceding claim, wherein the second seat comprises an elongate channel formed through the tip of the second projection, allowing the latch to pivot about the first seat inwardly into the internal space to the first open position.

17. The loop installation tool of any preceding claim, wherein the securing device comprises a clamping device, and wherein the anti-feed formation comprises a clamping member of the clamping device.

18. The loop installation tool of claim 17, wherein the clamping member is in the form of a clamp, and wherein the clamping device comprises the clamp and a spring to urge the clamp against a tail of the elongate line.

19. The loop installation tool of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the securing device comprises a clip, or wherein the securing device comprises a pair of spaced holes acting as conduits for a tail of the elongate line, wherein the spaced holes are sized, spaced, and orientated to define the anti-feed formation.

20. A loop installation system comprising the loop installation tool of any preceding claim, and the elongate line, wherein the elongate line comprises an eye and a tail, and wherein the second projection and the latch are dimensioned to fit through the eye of the elongate line.

21. The loop installation system of claim 20, wherein: the second projection has a constant or varying cross-section dimensioned to fit through the eye of the elongate line, the cross-section extending the full length of the second seat and beyond the second seat to enable the second projection to slide through the eye of the elongate line at least until the eye is beyond the second seat, and / or the loop installation tool comprises a base extending transverse to the first and second projections, and connecting the first and second projections, wherein the base comprises a transverse region extending transverse to the second projection, wherein the second projection and the transverse region of the base have a constant or varying cross-section dimensioned to fit through the eye of the elongate line, enabling the eye of the elongate line to reach the transverse region of the base, and / or the latch has a constant or varying cross-section dimensioned to fit through the eye of the elongate line, the cross-section extending the full lengthof the latch including the securing device to enable the latch to slide through the eye of the elongate line until the eye reaches the second projection.

22. The loop installation system of claim 20 or 21 , wherein the securing device comprises a clamping device, wherein the anti-feed formation comprises a clamping member of the clamping device, wherein the clamping device comprises a body comprising an interior cavity accessed through an opening, wherein the body has a rounded perimeter dimensioned to fit through the eye of the elongate line, and optionally wherein the aperture of the body is coaxial with the latch.

23. A method of using the loop installation tool of any one of claims 1 to 19, or the loop installation system of any one of claims 20 to 22, to form an elongate line into a loop around an article, the elongate line comprising an eye and a tail, the method comprising: feeding the second projection through an eye of the elongate line; securing the tail of the elongate line to the securing device of the latch; pivoting the latch about the first seat to the first open position and capturing the article within the internal space, wherein once the article has entered the internal space the latch is closed, wherein when the latch is closed the latch is mounted on the first and second seats; pivoting the latch about the second seat to the second open position and removing the loop installation tool from the article, wherein removing the loop installation tool comprises withdrawing the second projection and the latch, which is open and mounted to the second seat, through the eye of the elongate line until the secured tail of the elongate line extends through the eye of the elongate line; releasing or cutting the tail of the elongate line from the securing device of the latch, wherein the tail extends through the eye and is looped around the article; and pulling the tail of the elongate line to tighten the loop to a desired size.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein pivoting the latch to the first open position and capturing the article within the internal space comprises pushing the latch against the article, causing the latch to pivot inwardly about the first seat into the internal space to the first open position allowing the article to enter the internal space through the gap.

25. The method of claim 23 or 24, wherein pivoting the latch to the second open position and removing the loop installation tool from the article comprises pulling the latch against the article in the internal space, causing the latch to pivot outwardly about the second seat away from the internal space to the second open position allowing the article to exit the internal space through the gap-

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