Importance

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Abstract

A descent control device for lowering a load along a rope from an elevated position at which said rope is anchored to a relatively lower position. The device includes a vertical friction capstan such as a drum, shaft or cylinder, of a length adapted to receive a plurality of turns of rope wrapped therearound. Top and bottom end plates are attached respectively adjacent the upper and lower ends of the capstan; each having a portion overhanging the surface of the capstan and defining apertures sized to loosely receive the rope. The bottom aperture includes arcuate slot which tapers as it follows the contour of the capstan. A hook or eye depends from the lower end of the capstan for attaching a load carrying device. A locking end plate is rotatably mounted on the capstan below the lower end plate and includes an aperture for loosely receiving the rope. A spring rotatably biases the locking plate to forceably urge said rope into the narrowly tapered slot in the lower end plate for locking the capstan against movement on the rope. Handles are provided on the lower end plate and the locking plate for moving the locking plate with respect to the lower end plate to position the rope in the larger apertures to release the capstan assembly for descending movement along the rope.

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First Claim