Patent ID: 6732833
Filing Date: 2004-05-11
Classification: A62B,A63B

Abstract:
A descender for use in abseiling comprising:a base having a connection means for connection to a harness; a pivotal member pivotally mounted on the base about a pivot axis extending generally normal thereto, the pivot axis being spaced from the connection means; the pivotal member having first and second spaced projections for engaging a rope, the projections both extending generally parallel to the pivot axis with the first projection being disposed generally about the pivot axis and the second projection being located substantially on the opposite side of the pivot axis with respect to the connection means; the base further having a generally cylindrical stop member defining a braking surface located adjacent the second projection and a lever defining a first end, and a second end, the lever being pivotal about a pivot extending through or located adjacent to the stop member, the first end of the lever defining a handle pivotable in an arcuate path between first and second end positions; and wherein the pivotal member and the other end of the lever define complementary displacing formations the formations being shaped and configured such that as the lever travels in its arcuate path about the pivot, they regulate the distance between the stop member and the second projection whereby, in use, a rope passing around and between the first and second projections and between the second projection and the braking surface will have a resistance force applied to it which is a minimum when the second projection is moved away from the stop member by actuating the lever to cause the complementary displacing formations to contact one another, thus decreasing the braking and friction forces on the rope as it passes between the second projection and the stop member and is at a maximum when the lever moves towards either end position of its arcuate path wherein the rope is pressed between the second projection mid the braking surface.