Portable power-driven system

Abstract

To provide a portable power-driven system that can further simplify an operational process.SOLUTION: The present disclosure relates to a portable power-driven system for advancing a rope. The portable power-driven system has a specifically designed dual-function cover member provided for improving operational safety of the portable power-driven system.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2B

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a portable power-driven system for advancing a rope, the portable power-driven system comprising a specially designed dual-function cover member provided to improve the operational safety of the portable power-driven system. [Background technology]

[0002] Powered personal lift devices assist individuals in ascending and descending vertical surfaces. Motorized winches are used to raise and lower a platform or harnessed individual attached to a rope. The winch must be secured to a solid platform above the load or hoist the load using a pulley connected to the platform. Additionally, winches wind the rope or cable onto a spool, limiting the length and weight of the rope that can be used. Hoists, usually with compound pulleys or reduction gears, are used to raise and lower individuals or platforms and must be suspended from a safe support point such as a tripod, beam or bridge crane. Winches and hoists usually require at least a second person to operate or control the device in order for the first person to safely raise the rope.

[0003] However, there are many situations where a portable winch, a winch that can be operated by a person ascending or descending a rope, is desirable, such as mountain climbing, cave exploration, tree pruning, rescue operations, military operations, etc. Industrial applications of climbing equipment include climbing tall structures, towers, columns, mine tunnels, bridges, etc. for maintenance, cleaning, window washing, painting, etc.

[0004] One example of such a portable winch is disclosed in US Pat. No. 5,399,633, which provides a promising approach to a portable climber-operated winch referred to as a power-driven system, including a motor, the motor including a drive shaft, a rope grab configured to receive a rope, the rope grab connected to the drive shaft of the motor for rotating the rope grab, and a hinged safety arrangement including a safety lid configured to be placed in a closed state to completely cover the rope grab during operation of the power-driven system and to be placed in an open state to allow introduction of the rope into the rope grab. During operation of the portable power-driven system, as the motor is activated and begins to rotate, the rope grab advances the climber along the rope, typically in a vertical direction.

[0005] Even though the above-mentioned prior art represents a very useful solution for rope access to heights, there are always efforts to introduce further improvements for personnel using the equipment. In particular, in some situations it may be desirable to further simplify the operating process and increase the number of different rope shapes for use with portable power-driven systems. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 9,731,945 Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In accordance with a first aspect of the present disclosure, the foregoing is at least partially alleviated by a portable power driven system for advancing a rope, the rope extending in a first main direction, the power driven system including a body including a motor, the motor including a drive shaft and a rope grab connected to the drive shaft, the rope grab including a rope engagement surface having a concave shape adapted to engage the rope along a first section of a circumference of the rope grab during operation of the power driven system, a cover member rotatably connected with the body and disposed in an open state to allow introduction of the rope into the rope grab and configured to transition to a closed state to cover the rope grab during operation of the power driven system, the cover member including a first roller integrated into the cover member, the first roller arranged to bias the rope into engagement with the rope grab when the cover member is in the closed state.

[0008] The present disclosure is based on the realization that, compared to the prior art, firstly, it is possible to simplify for the user how to correctly introduce a rope in a portable power-driven system, and secondly, it is possible to ensure that the portable power-driven system can be operated in a safe manner.

[0009] This is accomplished, at least in part, by arranging the portable power-driven system to include a specially designed dual-function cover member provided to improve the operational safety of the portable power-driven system in accordance with the present disclosure. The cover member is arranged to ensure that the rope grab cannot be "touched" while the portable power-driven system is in operation (e.g., while operating the portable power-driven system to provide a winch function). At the same time, the cover member includes an integrated first roller positioned thereon such that when the cover member is closed, the integrated first roller "pushes" the rope towards the rope grab, intended to ensure adequate friction between the rope grab and the rope as the rope grab rotates.

[0010] This design inherently promotes ease of use: By simplifying the rope engagement process and enhancing safety features, the system shortens the learning curve for new users and is accessible to individuals with various levels of expertise.

[0011] The placement of the integrated first roller on the cover member, as understood from above, allows the roller to be "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, the user's accessibility when loading the rope is improved compared to prior art solutions employing similar rollers to ensure the above-mentioned friction between the rope grab and the rope. By applying the scheme as proposed according to the present disclosure, the first roller "interacts" with the rope only when the cover member is placed in the closed position.

[0012] The first and / or second rollers integrated with the cover member may be designed to include sensors or tactile elements that provide real-time feedback of the tension and positioning of the rope relative to the respective rollers, thereby providing additional operational safety by alerting the user and / or shutting down the system in the event of rope slippage or other potential hazards.

[0013] In the context of the present application, the term roller shall be interpreted broadly and may consist of any type of device that is capable of rotating "with the rope" while pressure is applied between the rope and the rope grab. Thus, the first roller shall preferably be configured to provide a pressure that allows the first roller to still rotate during the movement (rotation) of the rope grab.

[0014] As mentioned above, the motor is connected to the rope grab by means of a drive shaft. The expression "drive shaft" can include any mechanical implementation for transmitting rotational force from the motor to the rope grab. Thus, the drive shaft can further include, for example, a gearbox or the like for adapting the rotational force to the rotational speed of the rope grab. The term rope is used here in a broader sense and is intended to include ropes, wires, belts, webbings and cords of a nature and size suitable for engagement with a rope grab.

[0015] As understood by this definition, the rope may have a circular, oval or essentially flat (e.g. rectangular) configuration. In this regard, the concave shape of the rope-engaging surface of the rope grab is designed to accommodate ropes of various diameters and materials. This versatility makes the system highly adaptable and suitable for a wide range of applications outside of its original function.

[0016] In a possible embodiment of the portable power-driven system, the axis of rotation of the cover member rotatably connected to the body is strategically aligned to be parallel to the drive shaft of the motor. This parallel arrangement ensures a smooth and consistent rotational motion when transitioning the cover member between closed and open positions. Importantly, the cover member is designed to be rotated in a specific manner to "rotate away" from the rope grab mechanism. This deliberate design choice exposes the rope grab and allows it to be easily accessible to the user. Such easy access promotes efficient engagement of the rope with the rope grab, reducing the time and effort required to securely attach and detach the rope. This configuration not only improves user convenience, but also improves the overall system performance and safety by minimizing obstruction and interference with the rope grab. Additionally, the parallel arrangement of the axis of rotation of the rotatably connected cover member and the drive shaft of the motor minimizes the environmental footprint of the system. This efficient use of space makes the system highly portable and easily integrated into a variety of work environments.

[0017] Furthermore, the cover member is preferably arranged to include a first side facing towards the rope grab and a second opposite side facing away from the rope grab when the cover member is in the closed state, the first side including a circular segment that matches the shape of a portion of the rope grab. Having such a shape further enables the rope to closely follow the rope grab and reduces the risk of the rope becoming entangled when deployed with the rope grab.

[0018] Preferably, the cover member is constructed from materials such as plastic, metal, or a combination of both. Other composite materials are within the scope of this disclosure. The selection of the cover member material is made as a measure to balance the overall weight of the portable power driven system, thereby enhancing portability. At the same time, the selected material is intended to provide sufficient durability to ensure the life of the system without unnecessary downtime. Importantly, the cover member material may also be specifically selected to provide high resistance to environmental factors, including, but not limited to, resistance to corrosion, moisture, and ultraviolet light exposure. Such resistance not only extends the life of the system, but also minimizes the need for maintenance, adding another layer of operational efficiency and reliability.

[0019] Furthermore, in some embodiments, it may be desirable for the portable power supply drive system to also 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, while the first roller is arranged on the loaded side of the rope grab, i.e., relative to a fixed point provided in relation to the rope. The fixed point of the rope may be above the portable power supply drive system, for example, when the portable power supply drive system is operated vertically. Of course, this is also true when the portable power supply drive system is operated substantially horizontally, where there is one fixed end and one "loose end" of the rope. The advantage of using a second roller is, for example, to ensure that the loose end of the rope flows in a rapid manner relative to the rope grab (in and out of the rope, depending on the direction of rotation of the rope grab).

[0020] In one advantageous embodiment of the present disclosure, the second roller includes a spring mechanism that provides the second roller with a level of flexibility relative to the rope grab, thereby allowing for more fluid and rapid movement of the loose end of the rope as it interacts with the rope grab. Additionally, the inherent flexibility provided by the spring mechanism serves to positively force the rope into the groove of the rope grab, greatly enhancing the engagement of the rope with the rope grab.

[0021] In addition, the second roller can also improve the friction between the rope and the rope grab when the portable power drive system is operated downwards. The second roller functions to push the rope into the rope grab, increasing the friction between the rope and the rope grab.

[0022] Additionally, the incorporation of a spring mechanism provides an additional layer of adaptability, allowing it to accommodate ropes of different tensile strengths and diameters - a feature that makes the system more versatile and suitable for a wider range of applications.

[0023] In addition, the spring mechanism has a damping function that absorbs sudden forces and shocks on the rope, providing a smoother and safer operating feel. This damping function also reduces wear on the rope and rope grab, extending their lifespan.

[0024] In some embodiments, it is also possible that the first roller can be implemented as a bearing. The term bearing may include different types of bearings, where the outer surface of the bearing "pushes" the rope towards the rope grab and ensures that the rope engages with the rope grab when the cover member is in the closed state. In some cases, the second roller may also be selected with the above in mind.

[0025] Advantageously, the portable power drive system is further enhanced by incorporating a locking member that is carefully adapted to automatically lock the cover member to the body once the cover member has transitioned to a fully closed state. This auto-locking feature adds a significant layer of operational safety by ensuring that the system cannot be accidentally activated when the cover is not securely fastened in place.

[0026] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the system incorporates a "double lock" mechanism, a feature that ensures that the motor will not operate unless both parts of the double lock are fully engaged. This two-stage locking procedure provides a high level of safety, virtually eliminating the possibility of accidental or unauthorized activation of the system.

[0027] Additionally, the double locking mechanism can be designed to provide an audible or visual cue, such as an audible “click” or an LED indicator, to confirm successful engagement of both locking stages. This immediate feedback increases user confidence and ensures proper operation. Additionally, the double locking mechanism contributes to the robustness of the overall system by providing redundancy. In the unlikely event that one portion of the lock fails or breaks, the other acts as a fail-safe, maintaining operational safety. Additionally, the inclusion of a double locking mechanism is advantageous from a regulatory compliance standpoint. By providing multiple layers of safety, the system is more likely to meet or exceed various safety standards, thereby facilitating adoption across a variety of markets and applications.

[0028] Further consistent with the present disclosure, the portable power-driven system may be arranged to further include a user interface for operating the motor to enable rotation of the rope grab in first and second directions, where the first direction ensures that the portable power-driven system moves upwards and the second direction ensures that the portable power-driven system moves downwards when the primary direction is substantially vertical, for example, as described above. The user interface may include, for example, buttons or other elements useful for operating the motor of the portable power-driven system.

[0029] Additionally, the portable power driven system may further include wireless receiving means for configuring the system to be controlled remotely, for example using a remote control, thereby enabling, for example, a second operator to control the portable power driven system remotely.

[0030] In general, to operate the portable power-driven system, it is desirable to arrange the portable power-driven system to further include a sling connected to an anchor point, the sling being arranged to receive at least one of a maillon, a carabiner, or a rigging plate. The sling may be, for example, a woven material. The elongated sling is preferably arranged at one end to be connected to the anchor point and at the other end to receive at least one of a maillon, a carabiner, or a rigging plate. At least one of a maillon, a carabiner, or a rigging plate is then used to connect the portable system, for example, to a user's harness, or to secure the system to a fixed structure, for example, using further climbing / finishing equipment. The term "elongated sling" is generally used in connection with climbing equipment in general. Also, the term "woven" should be interpreted very broadly. For example, the woven material used to form the sling may be of any kind, for example, 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 anchor points mentioned above, for example by a sling and carabiner.

[0031] 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 rotational speed and torque. The mains drive system further includes a rechargeable battery for powering the motor. In an alternative embodiment, the motor may be a gasoline engine, which may or may not be used in combination with a gearbox, depending on the desired operating characteristics.

[0032] Preferably, the portable power drive system further comprises a brake mechanism arranged to reduce the rotation of the motor when the motor is not in operation, and a control member adapted to electrically or manually release the brake mechanism. Such a brake mechanism is strategically arranged to reduce the rotation of the motor when the motor is not in operation. This brake mechanism may be hydraulic, mechanical or electromechanical in nature and is specifically designed to stop the motor quickly and safely or reduce its rotational speed. Furthermore, the system includes a control member adapted to electrically or manually release the brake mechanism. The control member may be a switch, a lever or a software interface, giving the user flexibility on how to interact with the brake mechanism. In certain embodiments, the control member may also be programmed to automatically release the brake mechanism under predefined conditions, such as when a certain battery level is reached or when a remote signal is received.

[0033] In one alternative embodiment of the portable power drive system, the system includes at least one resistive element, such as a resistor or resistive coil, selectively electrically connected to the electric motor, particularly when the control member is in the process of disengaging the brake mechanism. The purpose of the resistive element is to act as a load dump and absorb excess electrical energy generated by the motor, thereby facilitating a smoother and more controlled deceleration. The resistive element may be activated automatically by the electronic control system or may require manual input from the user. In some cases, the resistive element may perform additional functions, such as converting the absorbed electrical energy into heat for use in other system functions.

[0034] Preferably, the portable power drive system further comprises a holding mechanism that is specifically adapted to automatically secure the cover in a stable position relative to the system body when the cover member is in the open state. Among the various methods for achieving this stability, the spring plunger mechanism stands out as a particularly effective and user-friendly option. The spring plunger, which is activated when the cover is opened, engages with a corresponding socket or groove in the body and holds the cover securely in place. This ensures a reliable hold that can be quickly and easily manually released when required. Other methods such as magnetic latches, ratchet mechanisms, hydraulic arms, etc. can also be employed. In some embodiments, the holding mechanism comprises a sensor that sends a signal to the control unit indicating that the cover is securely held in the open position, which can trigger other system or safety functions.

[0035] Further features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from a review of the appended claims and the following description, and those skilled in the art may combine different features of the present disclosure to create embodiments other than those described below without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0036] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The various aspects of the present disclosure, including particular features and advantages thereof, will be readily understood from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0037] [Figure 1] 1 conceptually illustrates a portable powered system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2A] 1A-1C are conceptual side and detailed views of an exemplary portable power-driven system provided in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; [Figure 2B] 1A-1C are conceptual side and detailed views of an exemplary portable power-driven system provided in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; [Figure 2C] 1A-1C are conceptual side and detailed views of an exemplary portable power-driven system provided in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; [Figure 2D] 1A-1C are conceptual side and detailed views of an exemplary portable power-driven system provided in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; [Figure 3A] 1 illustrates exemplary horizontal and vertical operation of a portable power-driven system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] 1 illustrates exemplary horizontal and vertical operation of a portable power-driven system according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0038] The present disclosure will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which currently preferred embodiments of the disclosure are shown. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein, but rather these embodiments are provided for thoroughness and completeness so as to fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. Like reference characters refer to like elements throughout.

[0039] Referring to the drawings, and in particular to FIG. 1, a portable power-driven system 100 according to a possible embodiment of the present invention is depicted. The portable power-driven system 100 includes a motor 102 and a rope grab 104, which are connected to each other, for example, by a drive shaft 106 (possibly including a gearbox or the like). The motor is preferably an electric motor further including a rechargeable battery, but may alternatively be an internal combustion engine. In the illustrated embodiment, the drive shaft 106 is enclosed in a body 108 of the system 100. The portable power-driven system 100 further includes a cover 110 for covering the rope grab 104.

[0040] The rope grab 104 is consistent with the present disclosure and is configured to receive and advance a rope 112 as the motor 102 rotates the rope grab 104 via the drive shaft 106. The rope grab 104 preferably has a substantially circular shape incorporating a concave rope engagement surface 114. This concave shape is strategically located around the circumference of the rope grab and is optimally configured in a somewhat rounded shape resembling a "U-shape". However, this design also allows for the versatility to employ a "V-shaped" rope engagement surface 114 depending on the needs of a particular application or the characteristics of the rope. In a currently preferred embodiment, the rope grab will be approximately 50 mm in diameter, although this dimension may be adapted based on the particular rope being used and the overall design considerations of the portable power drive system 100.

[0041] As previously mentioned, the cover 110 can be transitioned from an open state (as further shown in Figures 2A and 2B) to a closed state (as shown in Figure 2C).

[0042] When in the open state, the cover 110 is held securely in place by a dedicated holding mechanism (not explicitly shown). As previously mentioned, this holding mechanism may employ a spring plunger, a magnetic latch, or a hydraulic arm, thereby providing both security and flexibility. The holding mechanism may be further augmented in some embodiments by a sensor that verifies the position of the cover to send a signal to a control unit on board the portable power-driven system 100 or to provide visual or audio feedback to a user of the portable power-driven system 100.

[0043] The cover 110 is strategically positioned such that its axis of rotation is parallel to the drive shaft 106. This parallel orientation ensures a smooth and consistent rotational motion and aids in a seamless transition between the open and closed states of the cover 110. This minimizes the spatial footprint and allows ease of use of the portable powered system 100, especially where space is limited.

[0044] As detailed above, the cover 110 may be made from plastic, metal, or composite materials that balance the weight of the overall system while providing durability and resistance to environmental factors such as corrosion, moisture, and UV exposure.

[0045] 2A-2D, in the design of the present disclosure, an important feature is the integration of two rollers in the cover 110, namely, a first roller 150 and a second roller 152. These rollers are an integral part of the cover 110. When the cover 110 is in the closed state, the first roller 150 is positioned to positively press the rope 112 into the rope engagement surface 114 of the rope grab 104. This ensures a positive engagement between the rope 112 and the rope grab 104 and reduces the possibility of the rope slipping during operation. Furthermore, both rollers 150, 152 preferably include bearings to contribute to the smooth rotation of the rope 112 when it is in motion and further reduce friction with the rope 112, thereby improving the operating efficiency of the portable power drive system 100.

[0046] When the cover 110 is transitioned to the open state, i.e., as shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the integrated rollers 150, 152 are designed to retract or move away from the rope grab 104. This allows unobstructed access to easily guide the rope 112 around the rope grab 104, thereby simplifying the process of "loading" the portable power-driven system 100 for operation.

[0047] Additionally, the second roller 152 includes a spring mechanism 250 that provides a degree of flexibility to the rope grab 104. This spring mechanism 250 serves to absorb sudden forces or shocks on the rope, contributing to a smoother operating experience and reducing wear on both the rope 112 and the rope grab 104.

[0048] The rollers 150, 152 in the cover 110 serve a dual function: ensuring positive and efficient engagement between the rope grab 104 and the rope 112 when the cover 110 is closed, and also facilitating easy loading of the rope 112 when the cover 110 is open. This contributes to operating the portable power driven system 100 in a safe, efficient and user friendly manner.

[0049] In operation, with particular reference to Figures 2B, 2C and 2D, the rope 112 is inserted to engage a portion of the rope grab 104, typically contacting approximately half of the circumference of the rope grab 104. The rope 112 further extends in a first main direction 210 and engages a first roller 150, which urges the rope 112 toward the rope grab 104 when the cover 110 is in a closed state, such that the rope 112 is at least partially "clamped" between the first roller 150 and the rope grab 104. Thus, friction between the rope 112 and the rope grab 104 may increase when a force is applied to the rope 112 at the portion of the rope grab 104 that the rope 112 engages during operation of the portable power source driving system 100. This allows a wide variety of different types of ropes to be used with the portable power source driving system 100, as described above.

[0050] Additionally, the rope 112 also passes over a second roller 152 at the unloaded loose end of the rope 112 before exiting the portable power source driven system 100. The second roller 152 is intended to at least partially control how the rope 112 interacts with the rope grab 104 and ensure good flow of the rope 112 with the rope grab 104 during operation of the portable power source driven system 100. As mentioned above, the second roller 152 also functions to increase friction between the rope 112 and the rope grab 104 during operation of the portable power source driven system 100 downward.

[0051] When operating the portable power-driven system 100, as illustrated in Fig. 2D with the cover 110 in the closed state, a load is connected to an anchor point 212 of the portable power-driven system 100. The anchor point 212 may, for example, be implemented with a hardened steel element and may, for example, comprise a sling connected to a maillot for connection to a harness of a user. The user accordingly exerts a load force on the portable power-driven system 100, which load force extends in a substantially opposite direction compared to the main direction 210 of the rope 112.

[0052] Additionally, the cover 110 incorporates a safety mechanism that works in conjunction with a "double lock" feature 220. This double lock ensures that the motor 102 will not operate unless both locks are fully engaged, thereby significantly increasing operational safety. In some embodiments, a sensor within the locking mechanism can be programmed to ensure that both stages are securely locked before allowing operation of the motor 102, thus eliminating the risk of accidental actuation.

[0053] In a further possible embodiment, portable power-driven system 100 includes a handle 232 strategically positioned to facilitate easy transportation of portable power-driven system 100. The handle is ergonomically designed to ensure a comfortable grip, facilitating transport of the system to various operating sites.

[0054] Additionally, portable power drive system 100 includes a user interface 240 for intuitive control of motor 102. User interface 240 is tailored to the particular type of motor employed (e.g., electric or internal combustion) and may include a variety of control elements, such as buttons, switches, or a touch screen interface for more advanced control options.

[0055] Reference is now made to Figures 3A and 3B, which respectively illustrate exemplary horizontal and vertical operation of portable power-driven system 100. In the embodiment of Figure 3A, the portable power-driven system is deployed as a stand-alone winch mode, i.e., instead of a user connecting a safety harness directly to an anchor point and using portable power-driven system 100 to ascend / descend along rope 112, portable power-driven system 100, in this mode, is connected to a fixed structure 302, such as a wall or similarly available object at the operating site.

[0056] In the illustrated embodiment, rope 112 is configured to pass over rollers 304, for example, to allow user 306 to transport portable power-driven system 100 in a vertical manner without having to control it himself. Portable power-driven system 100 may alternatively (or alternatively) be controlled by operator 308 using a user interface (not shown), which is typically located adjacent portable power-driven system 100. However, portable power-driven system 100 may also be configured to additionally include means for being remotely controlled, for example, by a remote control (wired or wireless, not shown). Preferably, the control is wireless, and in such an embodiment portable power-driven system 100 includes wireless connection means for wireless communication with the remote control.

[0057] In Fig. 3B, a typical vertical operation scenario of the portable power-driven system 100 is shown. In this scenario, a user 306' with a safety harness is typically connected to an anchor point of the portable power-driven system 100. In this case, the rope 112 is typically placed in a position above the user 306' (sometimes referred to as "top rope" in the context of climbing). Fig. 3B illustrates the user 306' as a tree surgeon accessing a tree 312, which the tree surgeon 306' accesses from a ground level 314. During operation of the portable power-driven system 100, the user 306' operates a user interface to ascend / descend between the anchor point and the ground level 314.

[0058] Although the figures may show a particular order of method steps, the order of steps may differ from that depicted. Also, two or more steps may be performed simultaneously or partially simultaneously. Such variations depend on the software and hardware systems selected, as well as designer choices. All such variations are within the scope of this disclosure. Similarly, software implementations may be accomplished with standard programming techniques with rule-based logic and other logic to accomplish the various connection, processing, comparison, and decision steps. Moreover, while the present disclosure has been described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments thereof, many different changes, modifications, and the like will become apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0059] Variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed disclosure, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. Moreover, in the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" does not exclude a plurality.

Claims

1. 1. A portable power driven system for advancing a rope extending in a first primary direction, comprising: a body including a motor including a drive shaft; a rope grab connected to a drive shaft, the rope grab including a rope engagement surface having a concave shape adapted to engage the rope along a first section of the circumference of the rope grab during operation of the power drive system; a cover member rotatably connected to the body and arranged in an open state to allow the rope to be introduced into the rope grab and adapted to be moved to a closed state to cover the rope grab during operation of the power drive system; The cover member includes a first roller integral to the cover member and positioned to urge the rope into engagement with the rope grab when the cover member is in the closed condition.

2. 2. The portable power-driven system of claim 1, wherein the axis of rotation of the rotatably connected cover member is parallel to the drive shaft.

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

4. 2. The portable power driven system of claim 1, wherein the cover member includes a first side facing toward the rope grab and a second opposite side facing away from the rope grab when the cover member is in a closed position, the first side including a circular segment that matches the shape of a portion of the rope grab.

5. The portable power driven system of claim 1 , wherein the second roller includes a spring mechanism.

6. 2. The portable power drive system of claim 1, wherein the first roller is a bearing.

7. The portable power-driven system of claim 1 , wherein the circumferential shape of the cover member matches the circumferential shape of the main body.

8. 2. The portable power-driven system of claim 1, wherein the cover member is formed from a plastic material, a metal material, or a combination of both.

9. 2. The portable power-driven system of claim 1, further comprising a fixing member adapted to automatically lock the cover member to the body when the cover member is fully transitioned to the closed state.

10. 10. The portable power driven system of claim 1, further comprising a user interface for operating the motor to enable rotation of the rope grab in first and second directions.

11. 10. The portable power driven system of claim 1, further comprising a sling connected to the anchor point, the sling arranged to receive at least one of a maillot, a carabiner, or a rigging plate.

12. 10. The portable power-driven system of claim 1, wherein the motor is an electric motor, and the power-driven system further includes a rechargeable battery.

13. a brake mechanism arranged to reduce the rotation of the motor when the motor is not in operation; A portable power driven system as claimed in claim 12, comprising: a control member adapted to electrically or manually release said brake mechanism.

14. 10. The portable power driven system of claim 1, further comprising at least one of a sensor and a tactile element positioned to provide information indicative of tension in the rope and / or positioning relative to the first or second rollers.

15. 2. The portable power driven system of claim 1, further comprising a retention mechanism adapted to automatically retain the cover in a stable position relative to the body when the cover member is in the open state.

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