Lowering Device Project

Reg, I like the concept. Is it possible to have 1 on display at the upcoming ISA conference in Providence? What is the cost? How much does it weigh? When using the ratcheting binder straps, have you experienced any 'creep'?

On another note, you certainly have a very professional crew.
 
Thankyou Jerry, Jim, Taitree, Norm.

Taitree, that part is not really down to me….but what started as only a maybe is now looking more imminent. Obviously it depends on what/if/anything can be worked out between Stein and any potential interested parties (retailers) over your way.

Norm

I’m pretty sure the retail price is around £500. Since it has been beefed up I don’t know the exact weight off hand. I’ll not kid you though its quite lump to be hauling around….and while not impossible is quite a challenge for a single person to mount.

The ratchet binder/strap system fails at about 13 tons, is heavy duty and has sufficient lever-arm on the handle to singlehandedly apply the necessary tension. On soft thick bark trees the strap often need an extra couple of clicks after bedding in under the first few loads. At worst the device has tilted from side to side relative to whichever bollard is being used but nothing that I’m concerned about. The obvious answer is to use a cut-in where the tree is to be destroyed….but if not, the back also has fittings for curved rubber blocks (not shown in the video) for preservation and extra holding qualities.

Re: the conference – let me get this week out of the way and we’ll see what can be arranged. If it’s doable Norm you shall have one.
 
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Reg, I found a hole in the frame for a nail to hold the unit aids greatly in one-man-mounting scenarios.

Simple

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Now why didn't I think of that Jerry
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Thankyou brother, that's another box ticked off. Come to think of it, the device has an eyebolt dead central in the in the top of the frame (not shown in the vid) for fiddle block attachment....would be ideal for the technique you describe.

You may as well see the smallest device in the range seems as we're on a roll, although not so small in reality. Inspired from the portawrap although in no way a rip-off, this device was an afterthought after the big one was finished. I wasn't into the idea of creating a range to start with but it actually works very well.

The sequence of 6 photos show the mounting and rope-routing. You'll notice that the device utilizes two slings (although you can stick to one if so desired) for the convenience of the groundsperson. The top rope is not load bearing so it need not be an expensive sling like the one in the photos.
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That's a pretty device, Reg, though the need for the top sling is a little redundant I think.

Much like yourself, though years ago, I made a version of the porta-wrap out of stainless steel. Long before the popular version arrived. You'll see it in the rigging video. It's interesting to see all the variations that come about and that can serve the same purpose.

Friction devices are so intriguing.

Thank you for your contributions and ideas to this trade, Reg. You're a real innovator.
 
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That's a pretty device, Reg, though the need for the top sling is a little redundant I think.



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Gerry you gotta try it first. The device is a lot bigger than it appears in the photo. Having it in that fixed position makes it much easier to route the rope and apply tension.

Also, after lowering a branch you don’t have to take the rope out to pull the attachment end up to the climber….just flick off a wrap and pull from where you are….it slips through real easy.
There is further more to the methodology that I’m holding back on, as its accessory isn’t quite finished yet.

When is the Rigging video available?
 
It's being replicated right now. Should have it in hand in a few weeks to a month. Your help and use of video clips really made it smooth. Thank you.

Funny thing about the porta-wrap. For a long time I thought of having a bungey over the device to hold it upright. Though more to help cushion the jolt when the line slacks just before a load lays into it. In such scenarios anyway. But it was always just a thought.

I see what you're saying with your device and it makes good sense.
 
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It's being replicated right now. Should have it in hand in a few weeks to a month. Your help and use of video clips really made it smooth. Thank you.


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It was a privilege to be asked Jerry. Out of the many highlights in Series One I think the most outstanding for me was the spur and flipline....although clearly no slouch yourself Jerry, your friend Eric is just phenomenal.

I look forward to series 2 with great anticipation. Please keep us all up to date with that one. Thanks
 
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