| 摘要 |
<p>An apparatus and method for lowering a plurality of evacuees in a single descent using a movable rope system. An anchor (10) is equipped with expansion means (22, 24) for wedging the anchor between a floor and ceiling. An arm (40) extends outward from the anchor (10) and is supported by a leg (30) extending to the floor. The leg (30) is braced (32, 34) to the expandable floor-to-ceiling member to resist tilting of the anchor (10). A friction drum (65) is provided to control the descent of evacuees and also to provide for braking of the rope (44) in order to attach harnesses (72) for use by evacuees. A first evacuee is attached to an end of the rope (44) and lowered a distance whereupon the rope (44) is braked. A second evacuee is then attached and lowered and the rope (44) is again braked. In this manner, a plurality of evacuees are attached to the first end of the rope (44) which is then lowered to the destination point. The next group of evacuees is attached in similar fashion to the second end of the rope (44) and the weight of the second group of evacuees is used as a counterweight in hauling up the first portion of the rope (44) and harnesses (72).</p> |
