Portable power driving system

By designing the dual-function cover member and roller mechanism in the portable power drive system, the problems of difficulty in introducing ropes and insufficient safety are solved, and simpler, safer and more functional rope operation is achieved.

CN119858872APending Publication Date: 2025-04-22SKYLOTEC GMBH
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202411460342.1
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-10-20
Filing Date
2024-10-18
Publication Date
2025-04-22

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The existing portable power drive system has problems of difficulty in introducing ropes and insufficient safety during operation, and it is difficult to adapt to ropes of different shapes and materials.

Method used

A portable power drive system including a body, a rope grab and a dual-function cover member is designed. The cover member is rotatably connected to the body, including an integrated first roller, ensuring that the rope engages with the rope grab and improving the smoothness and friction of the rope through the second roller and spring mechanism.

Benefits of technology

The rope connection process is simplified, the system's operating safety and user-friendliness are improved, making it easy for people of different professional levels to use, and is suitable for ropes of many different shapes and materials.

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Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a portable power drive system for propelling a rope wherein the portable power drive system is equipped with a specially designed dual function cover member for improving operational safety of the portable power drive system.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a portable power drive system for a propulsion rope, wherein the portable power drive system is equipped with a specially designed dual-function cover member for improving the operational safety of the portable power drive system. Background Art

[0002] Powered personal hoists help people climb vertical surfaces. Motorized winches are used to raise or lower a person from a platform or harness attached to a rope. The winch must be secured to a sturdy platform above the load, or a pulley attached to the platform is used to lift the load. Furthermore, winches wind the rope or cable around a rotating shaft, which limits the length and weight of the rope that can be used. Hoists, typically with compound pulleys or reduction gears, are used to raise or lower a person or platform and must be suspended from a stable support point, such as a tripod, beam, or overhead crane. Typically, the winch or hoist requires at least a second person to operate or control the device so that the first person can safely climb onto the rope.

[0003] However, in many situations, it is desirable to use a portable winch, preferably one that can be operated by a person ascending or descending the rope. Examples of such situations include mountaineering, caving, tree trimming, rescue operations, and military operations. Industrial uses of climbing devices can include climbing tall buildings, towers, utility poles, mines, or bridge construction for maintenance, cleaning, window washing, painting, etc.

[0004] US9731945 discloses an example of such a portable winch. US9731945 discloses a method for operating a winch with a portable climber, referred to as a power drive system. The power drive system includes a motor including a drive shaft; a rope grab configured to receive a rope, the rope grab connected to the motor's drive shaft for rotating the rope grab; and a hinged safety device including a safety cover configured to be closed during operation of the power drive system to completely cover the rope grab, and open to allow the rope to be introduced into the rope grab. During operation of the portable power drive system, and once the motor is engaged and begins to rotate, the rope grab can propel the climber in a typically vertical direction of the rope.

[0005] While the prior art described above provides a very useful solution for rope access at height, there is always a need for further improvements for those using the equipment. Specifically, in certain situations, it may be necessary to further simplify the operation process and allow for more different rope shapes to be used with the portable power drive system. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, the above-mentioned problem is at least partially alleviated by a portable power drive system for propelling a rope, the rope extending along a first main direction, the power drive system comprising: a main body comprising a motor, the motor comprising a drive shaft; a rope grab connected to the drive shaft, the rope grab comprising a rope engaging surface having a concave shape and being suitable for engaging the rope along a first portion of the circumference of the rope grab during operation of the power drive system; and a cover member rotatably connected to the main body and configured to be in an open state during operation of the power drive system to allow the rope to be introduced into the rope grab, and to transition to a closed state to cover the rope grab, wherein the cover member comprises a first roller integrated in the cover member, the first roller being configured to force the rope to engage with the rope grab when the cover member is in the closed state.

[0007] The present disclosure is based on the understanding that, compared to the prior art, firstly it is possible to simplify for a user how to correctly introduce a rope into a portable power drive system and secondly it is possible to ensure that the portable power drive system can be operated in a safe manner.

[0008] According to the present disclosure, this is achieved at least in part by arranging the portable power drive system to include a specially designed dual-function cover member that is configured to improve the operational safety of the portable power drive system. The cover member is arranged to ensure that the rope grab is not "touched" when the portable power drive system is in operation (e.g., when the portable power drive system is operated to provide a winch function). At the same time, the cover member includes an integrated first roller that is located on the cover member so that when the cover member is closed, the integrated first roller "pushes" the rope toward the rope grab, in order to ensure that there is appropriate friction between the rope grab and the rope when the rope grab rotates.

[0009] The design is inherently user-friendly. By simplifying the rope connection process and enhancing safety features, the system reduces the learning curve for new users and makes it accessible to people of all expertise levels.

[0010] By arranging the integrated first roller on the cover member, as will be understood from the above, the roller can be "moved away" from the rope grab when "loading" the rope around a portion of the rope grab, i.e., when the cover member is in the open position. Thus, compared to prior art solutions that employ similar rollers to ensure the aforementioned friction between the rope grab and the rope, user accessibility when loading the rope is improved. By applying the solution proposed in accordance with the present disclosure, the first roller only "interacts" with the rope when the cover member is in the closed position.

[0011] The first and / or second rollers integrated into the cover member may also be designed to include sensors or tactile elements to provide real-time feedback on the position and tension of the rope relative to the respective rollers. This can provide additional operational safety by alerting the user or shutting down the system in the event of rope slippage or other potential hazards.

[0012] In the context of the present application, the term "roller" should be interpreted broadly and may include any type of device that can rotate "with the rope" while providing pressure between the rope and the rope grab. Therefore, the first roller is preferably configured to provide pressure so that the first roller can still rotate during operation (rotation) of the rope grab.

[0013] As mentioned above, the motor is connected to the rope grab using a drive shaft. The term "drive shaft" may include any mechanical device for transmitting rotational force from the motor to the rope grab. Thus, for example, the drive shaft may also include a gearbox or similar device for adjusting the rotational force to the rotational speed of the rope grab. The term "rope" is used herein in a broad sense and is intended to include ropes, wires, belts, webbing, and cords of any nature or size suitable for engagement with a rope grab.

[0014] According to this definition, the rope can have a round, oval, or substantially flat (e.g., rectangular) form. In this regard, the concave form of the rope engagement surface on the rope grab is designed to accommodate ropes of varying diameters and materials. This versatility enhances the system's adaptability, making it suitable for a variety of applications beyond its primary function.

[0015] In one possible embodiment of the portable power-driven system, the rotational axis of the cover member, rotatably connected to the main body, is strategically aligned parallel to the motor's drive shaft. This parallel alignment ensures smooth and consistent rotational motion when transitioning between the cover's closed and open positions. Importantly, the cover member is designed to rotate in a specific manner, allowing it to "rotate away" from the rope grab mechanism. This deliberate design choice exposes the rope grab, making it easier for the user. This convenient access facilitates efficient engagement of the rope with the rope grab, reducing the time and effort required to safely connect or disconnect the rope. This configuration not only improves user convenience but also minimizes obstruction or interference with the rope grab, thereby enhancing the performance and safety of the entire system. Furthermore, the parallel alignment of the rotational axis of the rotatably connected cover member and the motor's drive shaft minimizes the system's footprint. This efficient use of space makes the system highly portable and easier to integrate into various work environments.

[0016] Furthermore, it is preferred that, when the cover member is in the closed state, the cover member comprises a first side facing the rope grab and an opposite second side facing away from the rope grab, wherein the first side comprises a rounded portion that matches the shape of a portion of the rope grab. With such a shape, the rope can also fit tightly against the rope grab, thereby reducing the risk of the rope becoming entangled when the rope grab is arranged together.

[0017] Preferably, the cover member is made of a material such as plastic, metal, or a combination of both. Other composite materials are also within the scope of the present disclosure. The strategy for selecting the cover member material is to balance the overall weight of the portable power drive system, thereby improving its portability. At the same time, the purpose of the selected material is to provide sufficient durability to ensure the service life of the system without unnecessary downtime. Importantly, the material of the cover member can also be specifically selected to have high resistance to environmental factors. This includes but is not limited to resistance to corrosion, moisture, and UV radiation. This resistance not only extends the service life of the system, but also minimizes maintenance requirements, thereby improving operational efficiency and reliability.

[0018] Furthermore, in some embodiments, it may be desirable for the portable power drive system to further include a second roller adapted to guide the rope relative to the rope grab. The second roller is typically arranged to guide the rope on the unloaded side of the rope grab, whereas the first roller is arranged on the loaded side of the rope grab, i.e. relative to a fixed point provided for the rope. If the portable power drive system is operated in a vertical manner, the fixed point for the rope may, for example, be located above the portable power drive system. Of course, the same also applies if the portable power drive system is operated in a substantially horizontal manner, with one end of the rope fixed and the other end "loose." The use of a second roller has the advantage, for example, of being able to ensure that the loose end of the rope can flow quickly relative to the rope grab (into or out of the rope, depending on the direction of rotation of the rope grab).

[0019] In one advantageous embodiment of the present disclosure, the second roller includes a spring mechanism. This spring mechanism imparts a degree of flexibility to the second roller relative to the rope grab, enabling smoother and faster manipulation of the loose end of the rope when interacting with the rope grab. The inherent flexibility provided by the spring mechanism also serves to actively push the rope into the groove of the rope grab, significantly strengthening the engagement between the rope and the rope grab.

[0020] In addition, when the portable power drive system is running in a downward manner, the second roller can also improve the friction between the rope and the rope grab. The function of the second roller is to push the rope into the rope grab, thereby increasing the friction between the two.

[0021] Furthermore, the introduction of a spring mechanism provides additional adaptability, enabling the system to better accommodate ropes of varying tensile strengths and diameters. This feature enhances the system’s versatility, making it suitable for a wider range of applications.

[0022] In addition, the spring mechanism can be equipped with a damping function to reduce sudden forces or shocks applied to the rope, providing a smoother and safer operating experience. This damping function also extends the life of the rope and rope grab by reducing wear.

[0023] In some embodiments, the first roller can be implemented as a bearing. It should be understood that the term "bearing" can encompass different types of bearings. Here, the outer surface of the bearing "pushes" the rope toward the rope grab and ensures that the rope engages the rope grab when the cover member is closed. The above factors can also be considered when selecting the second roller.

[0024] Advantageously, the portable powered drive system is further enhanced by incorporating a securing member that is meticulously adapted to automatically lock the cover member to the body once the cover member has fully transitioned to the closed position. This automatic locking feature increases operational safety by ensuring that the system cannot be accidentally activated without the cover member being securely in place.

[0025] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the system incorporates a "double lock" mechanism, which prevents the motor from operating unless both parts of the double lock are fully engaged. This two-stage locking procedure provides an increased level of security, virtually eliminating the possibility of accidental or unauthorized activation of the system.

[0026] Furthermore, dual-lock mechanisms can be designed to provide an audible or visual cue, such as an audible click or LED indicator, to confirm that both locking stages have been successfully engaged. This immediate feedback enhances user confidence and ensures correct operation. Furthermore, dual-lock mechanisms enhance the robustness of the entire system by providing redundancy. In the unlikely event that one part of the lock fails or becomes damaged, the other part still functions as a fail-safe mechanism, maintaining a certain level of operational security. Furthermore, the inclusion of dual-lock mechanisms is advantageous from a regulatory compliance perspective. By providing multiple layers of security, the system is more likely to meet or exceed various safety standards, thereby promoting its adoption across diverse markets and applications.

[0027] Furthermore, according to the present disclosure, the portable powered drive system can be further configured to include a user interface for operating the motor to rotate the rope grab head in a first direction and a second direction. Here, the first direction can, for example, ensure upward movement of the portable powered drive system when the primary direction (as described above) is substantially vertical, while the second direction ensures downward movement of the portable powered drive system. For example, the user interface can include buttons or any other element for operating the motor of the portable powered drive system.

[0028] Additionally, the portable powered drive system may further include a wireless receiving device to configure the system for remote control using a remote controller or the like, thereby allowing, for example, a second operator to remotely control the portable powered drive system.

[0029] Generally speaking, when operating a portable power drive system, it is desirable to further configure the portable power drive system to include a sling connected to an anchor point, the sling being configured to receive at least one of a chain link, a carabiner, or a rigging plate. For example, the sling can be made of a textile material. The elongated sling is preferably connected to the anchor point at one end and configured to receive at least one of a chain link, a carabiner, or a rigging plate at the other end. At least one of the chain link, carabiner, or rigging plate can then be used to connect the portable system to a user's safety harness, etc., or to anchor the system to a fixed structure using, for example, other climbing / cable equipment. The general term "elongated sling" generally refers to typical climbing equipment. Furthermore, the term "textile" should be interpreted broadly. For example, the textile material used to form the sling can be of any type, such as woven or non-woven materials, natural and / or synthetic fibers, etc. During operation of the portable power drive system, the user is typically securely connected to the above-mentioned anchor point, for example, using a sling and a carabiner.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the motor is an electric motor, preferably, but not necessarily, coupled to a gearbox designed to optimize speed and torque. The power drive system also includes a rechargeable battery for providing power to the motor. In another embodiment, the motor may be a gasoline engine, which may or may not be used in conjunction with a gearbox, depending on the desired operating characteristics.

[0031] Preferably, the portable power drive system also includes: a braking mechanism arranged to reduce the rotation of the motor when the motor is deactivated; and a control member suitable for electrically or manually releasing the braking mechanism. Such a braking mechanism is strategically arranged to reduce the rotation of the motor when the motor is deactivated. Such a braking mechanism can be hydraulic, mechanical or electromechanical in nature and is specifically designed to quickly and safely stop or reduce the speed of the motor. In addition, the system includes a control member suitable for electrically or manually releasing the braking mechanism. The control member can be a switch, a joystick, or even a software interface that allows the user to flexibly interact with the braking mechanism. In some embodiments, the control member can also be programmed to automatically release the braking mechanism under predetermined conditions, such as reaching a certain battery level or upon receiving a remote signal.

[0032] In another embodiment of the portable powered drive system, the system is equipped with at least one resistive element, such as a resistor or a resistance coil, which is selectively electrically connected to the electric motor. This connection is made specifically when the control member is in the process of disengaging the braking mechanism. The purpose of the resistive element can be to act as a load dump, absorbing excess electrical energy generated by the motor, thereby promoting a smoother and more controlled deceleration. The resistive element can be automatically activated by the electronic control system or require manual input from the user. In some cases, the resistive element can also perform other functions, such as converting the absorbed electrical energy into heat, which can be used for other system functions.

[0033] Preferably, the portable power drive system also includes a retaining mechanism specifically designed to automatically maintain the cover member in a stable position relative to the main body of the system when the cover member is in the open state. Among the various methods for achieving such stability, a spring plunger mechanism is a particularly effective and user-friendly option. The spring plunger can be activated when the cover member is opened, engaging with a corresponding socket or groove on the main body to securely fix the cover member in place. This ensures reliable retention with the benefit of quick and easy manual disengagement when needed. Other methods, such as a magnetic latch, a ratchet mechanism, or a hydraulic arm, may also be used. In some embodiments, the retaining mechanism can be equipped with a sensor that sends a signal to the control unit indicating that the cover member is securely fixed in the open position, which can trigger other system functions or safety functions.

[0034] Further features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent when studying the appended claims and the following description. Those skilled in the art realize that different features of the present disclosure may be combined to create other embodiments than those described in the following, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] Various aspects of the present disclosure, including its particular features and advantages, can be readily understood from the following detailed description and accompanying drawings:

[0036] Figure 1 A portable powered drive system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is conceptually illustrated;

[0037] Figures 2A to 2D shows a conceptual side view and detailed diagram of an exemplary portable power drive system related to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and

[0038] Figure 3A and Figure 3B Exemplary horizontal and vertical operations of a portable powered drive system according to the present disclosure are demonstrated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] The present disclosure will be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show presently preferred embodiments of the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided to be thorough and complete and to fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. Like reference numerals refer to like elements.

[0040] Now refer to the accompanying drawings, in particular Figure 1 , which describes a portable power drive system 100 according to one possible embodiment of the present invention. The portable power drive system 100 includes a motor 102 and a rope grab 104, which are interconnected by means of, for example, a drive shaft 106 (which may also include a gearbox or similar device). The motor is preferably an electric motor and further includes a rechargeable battery, but an internal combustion engine can also be used instead. In the illustrated embodiment, the drive shaft 106 is enclosed in a body 108 of the portable power drive system 100. The portable power drive system 100 also includes a cover 110 for covering the rope grab 104.

[0041] A rope grab 104 consistent with the present disclosure is configured to receive and advance a rope 112 once the motor 102 rotates the rope grab 104 via the drive shaft 106. The rope grab 104 is preferably substantially circular in shape and includes a concave rope-engaging surface 114. This concave shape is strategically positioned about the rope grab's circumference and is ideally configured to be slightly rounded, resembling a "U-shape." However, this design also allows for the versatility of employing a "V-shaped" rope-engaging surface 114, depending on specific application requirements or rope characteristics. In a presently preferred embodiment, the rope grab has a diameter of approximately 50 mm, but this size can be adjusted depending on the specific rope being used and the overall design considerations of the portable power drive system 100.

[0042] As previously mentioned, the lid 110 can be opened from the open position (eg Figure 2A and Figure 2B further shown) transitions to the closed state (as Figure 2C shown).

[0043] When in the open position, the lid 110 is securely held in place by a dedicated retaining mechanism (not explicitly shown). As previously described, this retaining mechanism can employ a spring plunger, a magnetic lock, or a hydraulic arm to provide both security and flexibility. In some embodiments, the retaining mechanism can be further enhanced by a sensor that confirms the position of the lid and sends a signal to a control unit disposed on the portable powered drive system 100, or provides visual or audible feedback to the user of the portable powered drive system 100.

[0044] The rotational axis of the lid 110 is strategically parallel to the drive shaft 106. This parallel alignment ensures smooth and consistent rotational motion, facilitating a seamless transition between the open and closed positions of the lid 110. This minimizes space usage and makes the portable power drive system 100 easier to use, especially where space is limited.

[0045] As previously mentioned, the cover 110 may be made of plastic, metal, or a composite material that balances the overall weight of the system while providing durability and resistance to environmental factors such as corrosion, moisture, and UV radiation.

[0046] Further references Figures 2A to 2D A key feature of the disclosed design is the integration of two rollers into the lid 110: a first roller 150 and a second roller 152. These rollers are an integral part of the lid 110. When the lid 110 is closed, the first roller 150 is positioned to actively push the rope 112 into the rope engagement surface 114 of the rope grab 104. This ensures secure engagement between the rope 112 and the rope grab 104, reducing the likelihood of rope slippage during operation. Furthermore, the first and second rollers 150, 152 are preferably constructed with bearings, which facilitate smooth rotation of the rope 112 as it moves and reduce friction with the rope 112, thereby improving the operating efficiency of the portable power drive system 100.

[0047] When the cover 110 is turned into the open state, Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, the integrated first roller 150 and second roller 152 are designed to be retracted or away from the rope grab 104. This provides an unobstructed path for the rope 112 to be easily introduced around the rope grab 104, thereby simplifying the "loading" operation process of the portable power drive system 100.

[0048] Additionally, the second roller 152 includes a spring mechanism 250 to provide a degree of flexibility relative to the rope grab 104. The spring mechanism 250 serves to absorb sudden forces or shocks on the rope, thereby facilitating a smoother operating experience and reducing wear on the rope 112 and rope grab 104.

[0049] The integrated first and second rollers 150, 152 in the lid 110 serve a dual function of ensuring safe and effective engagement between the rope grab 104 and the rope 112 when the lid 110 is closed, and further facilitating loading of the rope 112 when the lid 110 is open. This facilitates operating the portable power drive system 100 in a safe, efficient, and user-friendly manner.

[0050] During operation, see Figure 2B 、 Figure 2C and Figure 2D , the rope 112 is inserted into engagement with a portion of the rope grab 104, typically contacting approximately half of the circumference of the rope grab 104. Furthermore, the rope 112 will extend in the first principal direction 210 and thereby engage the first roller 150. When the lid 110 is in the closed position, the first roller 150 will force the rope 112 toward the rope grab 104, thereby causing the rope 112 to be at least partially "sandwiched" between the first roller 150 and the rope grab 104. Thus, because force is applied to the rope 112 at the portion of the rope grab 104 where it is engaged during operation of the portable power drive system 100, friction between the rope 112 and the rope grab 104 is increased. As discussed above, this allows the portable power drive system 100 to be used with a variety of different rope types.

[0051] Additionally, the rope 112 will pass over a second roller 152 at the loose, unloaded end of the rope 112 before exiting the portable powered drive system 100. The second roller 152 at least partially controls the manner in which the rope 112 interacts with the rope grab 104, thereby ensuring smooth movement between the rope 112 and the rope grab 104 during operation of the portable powered drive system 100. As described above, the second roller 152 also serves to increase friction between the rope 112 and the rope grab 104 when the portable powered drive system 100 is operated downward.

[0052] When operating the portable power drive system 100, as Figure 2DIn the exemplary embodiment shown, with the lid 110 closed, the load is connected to the anchor point 212 of the portable powered drive system 100. The anchor point 212 is, for example, made of a hardened steel member and can be equipped with, for example, a sling that is connected to a ring for connecting the user's safety belt. The user will accordingly apply a load force to the portable powered drive system 100 that extends in a direction substantially opposite to the main direction 210 of the rope 112.

[0053] In addition, the lid 110 includes a safety mechanism that works in conjunction with the "double lock" feature 220. This dual-stage lock ensures that the motor 102 remains in operation when both locks are fully engaged, greatly enhancing operational safety. In some embodiments, a sensor within the lock mechanism can be programmed to confirm that both stages are securely locked before allowing the motor 102 to operate, thereby eliminating the risk of accidental startup.

[0054] In another possible embodiment, the portable power drive system 100 is equipped with a handle 232 that is strategically positioned to facilitate easy transportation of the portable power drive system 100. The handle is ergonomically designed to ensure a comfortable grip, making it easy to carry the system to various work sites.

[0055] Additionally, the portable power drive system 100 is provided with a user interface 240 for intuitively controlling the motor 102. The user interface 240 is customized to the specific motor type being used (e.g., electric or internal combustion based) and may include various control elements such as buttons, switches, or even a touch screen interface for more advanced control options.

[0056] Now go to Figure 3A and Figure 3B , respectively, illustrate exemplary horizontal and vertical operations of the portable power drive system 100. Figure 3A In an embodiment, the portable power drive system 100 is arranged in a standalone winch mode, i.e., the user does not need to connect his or her safety belt directly to an anchor point and use the portable power drive system 100 to ascend / descend along the rope 112. Instead, the portable power drive system 100 is connected to a fixed structure 302 in this mode, such as a wall or similar available object at the operation site.

[0057] In the illustrated embodiment, the rope 112 is configured to pass through, for example, a pulley 304, in order to allow a user 306 to transport the portable power drive system 100 in a vertical manner without having to control the portable power drive system 100 himself. The portable power drive system 100 can alternatively (or also) be controlled by an operator 308 using a user interface (not shown), and the operator 308 is typically adjacent to the portable power drive system 100. However, the portable power drive system 100 can also be configured to additionally include a remote control device, such as with the help of a remote control (wired or wireless, not shown). Preferably, the remote control is wireless, and in this case, the portable power drive system 100 includes a wireless connection device for wireless communication with the remote control.

[0058] Figure 3B , a typical vertical operation scenario of the portable powered drive system 100 is shown in FIG. In this scenario, a user 306′ wearing a safety harness is typically connected to an anchor point of the portable powered drive system 100. In this scenario, the rope 112 is typically located above the user 306′ (sometimes referred to as “top roping” in connection with climbing). Figure 3B The example illustrates that the user 306' is an arborist approaching a tree, wherein the arborist 306' approaches the tree from the ground. During operation of the portable power drive system 100, the user 306' will operate the user interface to ascend / descend between the anchor point and the ground.

[0059] Although the specific order of the method steps may be shown in the figure, the order of the steps may be different from that described. In addition, two or more steps may be performed simultaneously or partially simultaneously. Such variations will depend on the software and hardware systems selected and the designer's choice. All of these variations are within the scope of this disclosure. Similarly, the implementation of the software can also be implemented by standard programming techniques, rule-based logic and other logic to complete the various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps and decision steps. In addition, although the present disclosure has been described with reference to its specific exemplary embodiments, many different changes, modifications and similar situations are obvious to those skilled in the art.

[0060] By studying the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, those skilled in the art can understand and implement various variations of the disclosed embodiments when practicing the present disclosure. In addition, in the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality.

Claims

1. A portable power drive system for a propulsion rope, the rope extending in a first main direction, the power drive system comprising: - a body comprising a motor, said motor comprising a drive shaft; a rope grab connected to the drive shaft, the rope grab comprising a rope engaging surface having a concave shape, the rope engaging surface engaging the rope along a first portion of the circumference of the rope grab during operation of the power drive system, and a cover member rotatably connected to the body and configured to be arranged in an open state during operation of the power drive system for introducing the rope into the rope grab and to transition to a closed state for covering the rope grab, Wherein the cover member comprises a first roller integrated in the cover member, the first roller being arranged to force the rope into engagement with the rope grab when the cover member is in the closed state. 2 . The portable power drive system according to claim 1 , wherein a rotation axis of the cover member for rotatable connection is parallel to the drive axis.

3. The portable power drive system of claim 1, further comprising a second roller, wherein the second roller is integral with the cover member and is adapted to guide the rope relative to the rope grab.

4. The portable power drive system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: When the cover member is in the closed state, the cover member includes a first side facing toward the rope grab and an opposite second side facing away from the rope grab, the first side including a circular segment matching the shape of a portion of the rope grab.

5. The portable powered drive system of claim 3, wherein the second roller comprises a spring mechanism.

6. The portable powered drive system of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first roller is a bearing.

7. The portable power drive system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a shape of a circumference of the cover member matches a shape of a circumference of the main body.

8. The portable power drive system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the cover member is formed of a plastic material, a metal material, or a combination of the two.

9. The portable powered drive system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a fixing member adapted to automatically lock the cover member to the main body when the cover member is fully transitioned to the closed state.

10. The portable power drive system of any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a user interface for operating the motor to rotate the rope grab bucket in a first direction and a second direction.

11. The portable powered drive system of any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a sling connected to the anchor point, the sling being arranged to receive at least one of a chain link, a carabiner or a rigging plate.

12. The portable powered drive system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the motor is an electric motor, and the portable powered drive system further comprises a rechargeable battery.

13. The portable power drive system of claim 12, further comprising: - a braking mechanism arranged to reduce the rotation of the motor when the motor is deactivated, and - a control member suitable for electrically or manually releasing said braking mechanism.

14. The portable powered drive system of claim 3, further comprising at least one of a sensor and a tactile element for providing information indicative of a position and / or tension of the cord relative to the first roller or the second roller.

15. The portable powered drive system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a retaining mechanism adapted to automatically retain the cover member in a stable position on the body when the cover member is in the open state.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Safety arrangement for a portable power driven system

    US9731945B2