Patent ID: 7841448

Claim:
An automated access panel for installation in an opening in a ceiling to provide access to a space above the ceiling, the automated access panel comprising: a framing structure for installation in said opening; a cover for closing said opening, said cover being pivotally attached to a first end of said framing structure; a plurality of slidably extendable ladder sections, a first of said slidably extendable ladder sections being mounted on said cover and a second of said slidably extendable ladder sections being slidably with respect to said first of said slidably extendable ladder sections; a motor connectable to an energy source; a cable connecting between a reel and at least one of said plurality of said slidably extendable ladder sections; a free wheeling gear including a first part coupled to said reel and a second part coupled to said motor, said free wheeling gear (a) allowing for gravity to rotate said first part in a lowering direction to open said cover and lower said plurality of said slidably extendable ladder sections, said second part adapted to freely rotate relative to said first part when said first part is prevented from rotating in the lowering direction so that said cable does not continue to unwind from said reel, and said free wheeling gear (b) adapted to be driven by said motor to rotate said second part in a raising direction opposite said lowering direction, said second part adapted to engage said first part when said motor drives said second part in the raising direction to wind up said cable about said reel which retracts said plurality of said slidable extendable ladder sections.