Technical Field

The present invention relates to a device for receipt of both a climbing line and a friction line for use in climbing operations, particularly tree -climbing and arboricultural operations.

Background to the Invention

The use of climbing lines (e.g. ropes) in climbing operations is well known. In one basic type of climbing operation a climbing line is thrown up and over a support feature of the landscape / object to be climbed (e.g. a branch of a tree). The climber then secures a first end of the climbing line, typically called the standing side, to his or her body and on ascending through the climbing operation (e.g. by climbing up the tree) applies pulling force to the second part of the climbing line, typically called the running side, to ensure a generally taught interrelationship between the climber and the support feature. A downward movement-limiting (e.g. friction or locking) relationship must then also be defined between the climber and the climbing line. In that way, if the climber falls, the extent of falling will be limited by the existence of that downward movement-limiting relationship between climber and climbing line. This type of climbing operation is sometimes called a self-belay climbing operation.

Safety is of course, of paramount importance to climbers and over time, systems and methods have been developed for improving self-belay climbing operations. At its most basic level, the securing of the first end of the climbing line to the climber's body to define the standing side could involve simply tying that end of the climbing line to the climber's body. However, these days it is standard for the climber to wear a harness and for an attachment mechanism typically comprising one or more karabiners and or other attachments means to be employed in attaching to the climbing line such as by attaching to an eye end (e.g. defined by a stitched eye or constriction band arrangement) of the climbing line. Again, at its most basic level, on the running side, the dual requirement for maintaining a taught climbing line inter-relationship between climber and supporting feature and downward movement-limiting relationship between the climber and the climbing line could involve a suitable arrangement of knots and loops in the climbing line. However, these days it is standard for the harness of climber instead to be attached to a device defining a guide surface (e.g. a pulley) for running receipt of the running side of the climbing line, which thereby allows for the climbing line to be pulled through to allow for defining of the desired taught climbing line inter-relationship between climber and supporting feature. A friction or locking arrangement is then provided to allow for defining of the desired downward movement- limiting relationship between the climber and the climbing line.

One suitable friction arrangement makes use of a separate friction line to provide a friction hitch at the climbing line. The friction line typically defines eye ends at each end thereof, which attach by suitable attachment means (e.g. by a karabiner or more complex attachment mechanism) to the harness of the climber. In use, the climber attaches a first eye end of the friction line to the attachment means, then ties a friction hitch around the climbing line and finally attaches a second eye end of the friction line to the attachment means. A downward- movement limiting friction hitch relationship is thus, defined between the harness/climber and the climbing line. As the climber ascends the friction hitch is loosened and a defined travel of the climbing line pulled through the hitch, and the hitch is then re-tightened to maintain the desired generally taught relationship between climber and supporting feature. The process is repeated over increments of ascent travel. Similarly, on descent, the friction hitch is again loosened and a defined travel of the climbing line allowed to run through the hitch to allow for descent through an associated distance of travel until the desired generally taught relationship between the climber and the supporting feature is restored. Again, the process is repeated over increments of descent travel.

One known type of friction arrangement is designed for use with the so-called 'stationary rope technique' (more commonly and incorrectly referred to as 'single rope technique') and does not allow for termination of the stationary end of the climber line. An example of this type is the Hitch Hiker (trade name) system, as sold by Rope Tek, LLC of Early sville, VA, United States of America. A second type of friction arrangement makes use of karabiners and a single or multi connection point pulley. A widely used and popular system of the second type is known as the Hitch Climber (trade name) system. This comprises a Hitch Climber (trade name) pulley device, as sold by DMM International of Llanberis, Wales, United Kingdom. The pulley device defines three attachment loops and a pulley wheel. The first attachment hole is arranged for attachment to the harness of a user, and also for attachment of a first eye end and a second eye end of a friction line, which is used to define the necessary friction hitch relationship with the climbing line. The second attachment hole is arranged for receipt of a karabiner, to which attaches a first eye end of a climbing line. The pulley wheel is arranged for rurining receipt of that climbing line. The third attachment hole is not frequently used in self-belay climbing operation use of the Hitch Climber (trade name) device. Another differently shaped, but functionally similar arrangement of this type is the Pinto Pulley (trade name), as sold by DMM International of Llanberis, Wales, United Kingdom.

Applicant has appreciated are a few disadvantages to known f iction arrangements of the second type. Firstly, the requirement for the use of karabiners in addition to the pulley device, which makes it a relatively complex set up and undesirably adds to the weight of the system. Secondly, the need for karabiners increases the distance of the hitch from the harness, which in certain circumstances, has the potential to cross load the equipment, thereby potentially compromising its strength. In use, the pivoting of the two karabiners connected to the pulley device results in a lengthy "sit back" of the system, regardless of the neatness and

compactness of the friction hitch. This means that with every movement up the rope the climber wastes energy as the system sits back on its self, potentially losing up to 10- 12cm in gained height, which is a small but significant distance when climbing.

Applicant has therefore appreciated the need for a simpler, lighter, more compact friction hitch climbing arrangement, which also reduces sit back. Applicant has thus, developed a device for receiving a climbing line and friction line for use in climbing operations comprising a body, which is typically in the form of a an oval loop or a linear chassis body with apertures provided therein. The body includes attachment means for use in attachment to a climbing harness. The device comprises a climbing line anchor for anchoring receipt of a first eye end of a climbing line and a guide surface allowing for guided running receipt of that climbing line. The device further comprises a first friction line anchor for anchoring receipt of a first eye end of a friction line; and spaced from said first friction line anchor, a second friction line anchor for anchoring receipt of a second eye end of a friction line.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a device for receiving a climbing line and friction line for use in climbing operations that is simple, lightweight and compact and which minimizes sit back.

Summary of the Invention

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a device for receiving a climbing line and friction line for use in climbing operations comprising a body including attachment means for attachment thereof to a climbing harness; a climbing line anchor for anchoring receipt of a first climbing line eye end of a climbing line; a guide surface allowing for guided running receipt of said climbing line; a first friction line anchor for anchoring receipt of a first friction line eye end of a friction line; and spaced from said first friction line anchor, a second friction line anchor for anchoring receipt of a second friction line eye end of a friction line.

There is provided a device for use in climbing operations, particularly for use in self-belay climbing operations. In embodiments, the device is configured to safely attach climbing and friction ropes in the correct positioning to create the geometry and arrangement required for an effective friction hitch. In embodiments, the device is configured for use in a progression friction hitch self-belay system. The device is arranged for receipt of both a climbing line and a friction line. The term climbing line is employed herein to mean that line (e.g. rope) that is arranged to provide safety support for a climber during a climbing operation. In embodiments, the climbing line is from 10mm to 13mm in diameter. In embodiments, the climbing line is arranged to define an eye at a first end thereof, wherein in embodiments that eye end is defined by means of a stitched eye or a constriction band provided to the first end. The term friction line herein is employed herein to mean that line (e.g. a rope), in which a friction hitch is definable for use in frictional control of movement of the climbing line. In embodiments, the friction line is from 6mm to 10mm in diameter.

The device comprises a body. The body can have any suitable shape or form. The body is formed of a high strength material (e.g. steel or an aluminium alloy) that is designed to withstand significant applied forces, as may arise during a typical climbing operation. In embodiments, the body defines a loop form such as a generally oval loop form, which may in embodiments, be a flattened oval loop form. In embodiments, the generally oval loop forms defines an axis of symmetry about its major chord axis. In other embodiments, the body defines a linear chassis form such as one having suitable apertures provided therein. In embodiments the body has a rectangular chassis form, optionally with an open forked end.

The body includes attachment means for attachment thereof to a climbing harness. In climbing use, a climber typically wears the climbing harness. In embodiments, the attachment means allows for direct and/or indirect attachment of the body to a climbing harness. In embodiments, the attachment means allows for attachment to the sliding bridge of an arborist harness. In embodiments, the attachment means comprises a hole or loop provided to the body. In embodiments, the attachment means allows for attachment to a fixed dee harness via a screw gate maillon or a karabiner. In embodiments, the body has an oval loop form and the attachment means is provided at an oblate (i.e. short) end part thereof. In embodiments where the generally oval loop forms defines an axis of symmetry about its major chord axis, the attachment means is symmetric about that axis.

The device comprises a climbing line anchor arranged for anchoring receipt of a first eye end of a climbing line. In embodiments, the climbing line anchor is provided to the body. In embodiments the climbing line anchor comprises a climbing line anchor pin and the body is shaped accordingly with pin-receiving holes apertures / channels. In embodiments, the climbing line anchor pin is a reversibly locking / unlocking pin (e.g. a lock pin). In embodiments, the (locking) climbing line anchor pin traverses part of the (e.g. loop/chassis) form of the body. In embodiments, the body has an elongate form, and the (locking) climbing line anchor pin lies transverse a minor extent of an elongate (e.g. oval loop / chassis) form of the body. In embodiments, the use of a (locking) friction line anchor pin eliminates the need for karabiners and thus reduces the risk of any undesired cross loading of equipment. In embodiments, a running line receipt pin allows the running line to be inserted into the running line guide and then constrained within this position. In embodiments where the body (e.g. oval loop form / chassis form) defines an axis of symmetry about its major chord axis, the shaft of the climbing line anchor pin lies perpendicular to and symmetric about that axis.

Suitable lock pins for use as the climbing line anchor pin, and the common f iction line anchor pin as described below, include those known as ball lock pins, pip pins, detent pins, ball nose pins and plunger pins. In embodiments, the lock pins have a quick release action and are sometimes called quick release pins. In embodiments, the lock pins have either a single action or double action. Suitable lock pins include those of the general type sold by Speciality Fasteners and Components Ltd of Totnes, Devon, United Kingdom or by Wixroyd International Ltd of Cranleigh, Surrey, United Kingdom. Suitable ball-lock pins include those described in US patent publications nos. US-A-5,303,908 and US-A-5,845,898. In embodiments, the lock pins are also arranged to have magnetic properties. In embodiments, the lock pins are of the ball-lock pin type and comprise a tubular pin body formed with a passage locating on a central axis; a tubular pin bolt axially displaceable in the passage and having a front end projecting from the body and a rear end; a first spring braced between the bolt and the body for urging the bolt axially rearward relative to the body; a pin axially displaceable in the bolt and formed with a radially outwardly open recess having an angled front flank; and at least one retaining element (e.g. a ball) radially displaceable in the body front end between a retaining position projecting radially from the bolt and a retracted position recessed in the bolt and engaged in the recess. The lock pin optionally includes a second spring urging the pin axially rearward in the bolt and thereby urging the angled flank axially into engagement with the retaining element to press same outward into the retaining position.

The device comprises a guide surface allowing for guided running receipt of the climbing line. In embodiments, the guide surface is defined by the body and comprises suitable shaping (e.g. curved shaping) provided at a guide part of that body. In embodiments, the body has an oval loop form and the guide surface is defined at an inner part of the oval surface, typically at an oblate (i.e. short) inner end part thereof. In other embodiments, the guide surface is defined by an element provided to the body such as a pulley wheel or a retaining pin. In embodiments, the pulley wheel is provided at an inner part of the body (e.g. oval) surface, typically at an oblate (i.e. short) inner end part thereof. In embodiments, the retaining pin is provided at an outer part of the (e.g. chassis form) body. In embodiments where the generally oval loop forms defines an axis of symmetry about its major chord axis, the guide surface is symmetric about that axis. In embodiments, the body has an oval loop form and the attachment means is provided at first oblate (i.e. short) end part thereof and the guide surface is provided at a second opposing oblate (i.e. short) end part thereof.

The device comprises a first friction line anchor for anchoring receipt of a first eye end of a friction line. The device also comprises, spaced from said first friction line anchor, a second friction line anchor for anchoring receipt of a second eye end of a friction line. In embodiments, the first and second eye ends are defined by means of a stitched eye or a constriction band provided to the respective end of the friction line. In embodiments, the first and second friction line anchors are spaced at opposing positions on the body. In embodiments, the first and second friction line anchors are diametrically spaced from each other on an oval form body.

In embodiments the first and second friction line anchors are defined by opposing ends of a common (i.e. a single) friction line anchor pin and the body is shaped accordingly with pin- receiving holes / apertures. In embodiments, the climbing line anchor pin is a reversibly locking / unlocking pin (e.g. a lock pin). In embodiments, the (locking) friction line anchor pin traverses part of the loop form of the body. In embodiments, the (locking) friction line anchor pin lies transverse (e.g. a minor extent of) the oval loop form of the body. In embodiments, the use of a (locking) common friction line anchor pin eliminates the need for karabiners and thus reduces the risk of any undesired cross loading of equipment. In embodiments where the generally oval loop forms defines an axis of symmetry about its major chord axis, the shaft of the common friction line anchor pin lies perpendicular to and symmetric about that axis. Suitable lock pins for use as the common friction line anchor pin include those known as ball lock pins, pip pins, detent pins, ball nose pins and plunger pins, as previously described in relation to the climbing line anchor pin.

In embodiments, friction line receiving cavities (e.g. slot form) are defined in the body at positions associated with opposing ends of the common (i.e. single) friction line anchor pin. Thus, in embodiments, a first friction line receiving cavity (e.g. slot form) is defined in the body at a first position associated with a first end of the common (i.e. single) friction line anchor pin and a second friction line receiving cavity (e.g. slot form) is defined in the body at a second position spaced from the first position, which second position is associated with a second end of the common (i.e. single) friction line anchor pin.

In embodiments the climbing line anchor comprises a climbing line anchor pin and the first and second friction line anchors are defined by opposing ends of a common (i.e. a single) friction line anchor pin, and in embodiments, these pins are oriented parallel to each other. In embodiments, the device is further provided wkh a running line receipt pin. In embodiments, the common (i.e. a single) friction line anchor pin locates between the running line receipt pin and the climbing line anchor pin.

In embodiments, the device is provided with a first cover for covering the head of the climbing line anchor pin and a second cover for covering the head of the common friction line anchor pin. In embodiments, the device is provided with a covering mechanism to protect the pin release buttons from accidental activation. A first cover for covering the head of the climbing line anchor pin, a second cover for covering the head of the common friction line anchor pin and optionally a third cover for covering a running receipt pin are provided for.

In embodiments, the body has an oval loop form, the attachment means is provided at first oblate (i.e. short) end part thereof, the guide surface is provided at a second opposing oblate (i.e. short) end part thereof, and the climbing line anchor pin and common (i.e. a single) friction line anchor pin are provided transverse (e.g. a minor extent of) the oval loop form of the body and in embodiments, parallel to each other. In embodiments, the climbing line anchor pin locates closest to the first oblate end part of the body (e.g. oval form or chassis form) and the common (i.e. a single) friction line anchor pin locates closest to the second oblate end part of the body (e.g. oval form or chassis form). In embodiments, a channel is defined between the common friction line anchor pin and the guide surface provided at the second oblate end part of the oval loop form body, which channel is arranged for receipt of the climbing line (on the running side). In embodiments, the presence of this climbing line-receiving channel acts to increase the ease / fluidity of flow of the climbing line through the device. In embodiments, the presence of the common friction line locking pin thereat also acts to prevent inversion of the hitch provided to the friction line through the system.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for use in climbing operations comprising a device as described above in receipt of a climbing line and a friction line. In embodiments of the system, the climbing line has a first climbing line eye end, which is in anchoring receipt by the climbing anchor of the device, thereby defining the standing side of the system; and the climbing line is in guided running receipt at the guide surface of the device, thereby defining the running side of the system. In embodiments of the system, the friction line has a first friction line eye end, which is in anchoring receipt at the first friction line anchor of the device; and the friction line has a second friction line eye end, which is in anchoring receipt at the second friction line anchor of the device.

In embodiments of the system, the device further attaches directly or indirectly to a climbing harness. In embodiments, use of device herein in a climbing system as described above, has the potential to reduce sit back of the system, especially if connected straight to the sliding bridge of a modern arborist harness, thus making the climbers climbing style more efficient, quicker and smoother. This in turn reduces dynamic movements and increases the frictional 'grabbing' properties of the friction hitch. In embodiments, use of the device herein facilitates descent for stationary rope technique by threading the climbing line over and under the climbing line anchor pin and common friction line anchor pin. When used in conjunction with a friction hitch this provides a locking "descent rack" as used by many rock climbers and rope rescue professionals. It will be appreciated that any of the elements of the device and/or the system herein may be manufactured and supplied separately and /or supplied as a pre-assembly or a kit of parts. The present invention encompasses all of these separate component parts and any assemblies thereof.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The invention will now be described further with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:-

Figure 1 shows a perspective view herein of a system herein comprising first device herein; climbing line and friction line;

Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a detail of the system as shown in Figure 1 ;

Figure 3 shows a plan view of the first device herein, in which dotted lines are used to indicate the positioning of cut-away channels provided to the first device;

Figure 4 shows a plan view of a lock pin suitable for use with the first device of Figure 3;

Figure 5 shows a detail of a cover arrangement for a lock pin receiving part of the first device herein;

Figure 6 shows a sectional view of both sides of a common friction line anchor lock pin receiving part of the first device herein with lock pin receiving channel shown in dotted lines;

Figures 7 and 8 show perspective views of a second device herein;

Figure 9 shows a side view of the second device of Figures 7 and 8; Figure 10 shows a plan view of the second device herein together with three lock pins shown spaced therefrom, and in which dotted lines are used to indicate the positioning of cut-away channels provided to the second device;

Figure 11 shows a side view herein of a second system herein comprising the second device herein, climbing line, friction line and karabiner attachment means, and in which dotted lines are used to show the positioning of the climbing line within the second device; and

Figure 12 shows a sectional view herein of the second system of Figure 11.

Referring now to the drawings, Figures 1 and 2 show different views of a system herein and Figure 3 shows a first device 1 herein, all for use in self-belay climbing operations. The first device 1 is arranged for receipt of a climbing line 10 and a friction line 20. The climbing line 10 is provided with a loop arrangement 14 in the form of a cambium saver for attachment of the climbing line 10 to a support feature of the landscape such as a tree branch (not shown).

The first device 1 comprises a generally oval form body 30 having an oval body opening 31, which body is formed of a high strength material (e.g. steel) that may be seen at Figure 3 to be essentially symmetric about line Y-Y' (its major chord axis). The body 30 defines, at a first oblate (i.e. short) end part thereof, attachment means in the form of a loop 32 suitable for attachment of the body to a climbing harness (not shown) such as via a karabiner (also not shown). The attachment loop 32 is also symmetric about line Y-Y'. The body 30 is provided with a climbing line anchor in the form of a climbing line anchor pin 40 (not clearly visible on Figures 1 and 2) for anchoring receipt of a first climbing line eye end 12 of the climbing line 10 to define the standing side of the system set up. It will be noted that the climbing line anchor pin 40 traverses a minor extent of the oval loop form of the body 30 and lies perpendicular to axis Y-Y' (parallel to axis X-Y'). The body 30 is shaped accordingly with holes / apertures for receipt of the climbing line anchor pin 40, more details of which will be described later by reference to Figure 3. The body 30 is also provided, at a second oblate (i.e. short) end part thereof, with a curved guide surface 34 allowing for guided running receipt of the climbing line 10 at the running side thereof. In embodiments, a pulley wheel is employed instead of or in addition to the curved guide surface 34. The curved guide surface 34 allows the climbing line 10 to run past it smoothly and enables a hitch 26 provided to the friction line 20 to be tended with one hand by pulling the climbing line 20 up beneath the first device 1.

The body 30 is further provided with a first friction line anchor 52 for anchoring receipt of a first friction line eye end 22 of the friction line 20; and spaced from the first friction line anchor 52, a second friction line anchor 54 for anchoring receipt of a second friction line eye end 24 of the friction line. The first and second friction line anchors are defined by first 52 and second 54 opposing end parts of a common friction line anchor pin 50. The body 30 is shaped accordingly with holes / apertures for receipt of the common friction line anchor pin 50, more details of which will be described later by reference to Figures 3 and 6. It will be noted that the climbing line anchor pin 40 and the common friction line anchor pin 50 are oriented parallel to each other (and thus, also parallel to axis X-Y').

The friction line 20 is provided with a friction hitch 26, which is used to establish a downward-movement limiting relationship between the device 1 (as attached to

harness/climber) and the climbing line 10. Thus in a typical climbing operation, as the climber ascends the friction hitch 26 is loosened and a defined travel of the climbing line 10 is pulled through the hitch 26. The hitch 26 is then re-tightened to maintain the desired generally taught relationship between climber and supporting feature. The process is repeated over increments of ascent travel. Similarly, on descent, the friction hitch 26 is again loosened and a defined travel of the climbing line 10 allowed to run through the hitch 26 to allow for descent through an associated distance of travel until the desired generally taught relationship between climber and supporting feature is restored. Again, the process is repeated over increments of descent travel.

It will be noted that a passage 35 is defined between the common friction line anchor pin 50 and the curved guide surface 34 provided at the second oblate end part of the oval loop form body 30, which passage is arranged to receive the running side of the climbing line 10. The definition of this passage 35 acts to increase the fluidity of flow of the climbing line 10, at the running side, through the device 1. The location of the common friction line locking pin 50 also acts to prevent inversion of the hitch 26 provided to the friction line 20 through the system and also acts to prevent rub on the eye end 12 (e.g. splice thereof) on the stationary end of the climbing line 10.

More details of the anchor pin 40, 50 aspects of the device are now described by particular reference to Figures 3 to 6. Whilst performing different functions and having different dimensions, the climbing line anchor pin 40 and common friction line anchor pin 50 may both be provided as lock pins of similar general type, which preferably have a quick release action and are thus, sometimes called quick release pins.

Figure 4 shows a suitable type of lock pin for use as the climbing line anchor pin 40 or the common friction line anchor pin 50, and is described in more detail in relation to a climbing line anchor pin 40. The lock pin 40 is of the ball-lock pin type and comprises a tubular pin body 41 having a pin collar 42 at a first end thereof, the body 41 formed with an internal tubular passage (not visible) locating on a central axis; a tubular pin bolt 43 axially displaceable in the passage and having a first end 45 projecting from the pin body 41 and a rear end (not visible); a first spring (not visible) braced between the pin bolt 43 and the pin body 41 for urging the pin bolt 43 axially rearward relative to the pin body 41; an axial locking pin axially displaceable in the bolt 43 and formed with a radially outwardly open recess having an angled front flank (not visible); and a pair of ball form retaining elements 47, 48 radially displaceable in the second end 44 of the body 40 between a retaining position projecting radially from the body 41 and a retracted position recessed in the bolt 43 and engaged in the recess.

In use of the lock pin 40, downwards pressure is applied to the first end 45 of the tubular pin bolt 43 to move the bolt 43 into the tubular pin body 41. This action results in release of the ball form retaining elements 47, 48 such that these move radially inwards to allow for unlocking of the lock pin 40. The lock pin 40 is also provided at the first end 45 of the tubular pin bolt 43 with an (optional) release cord 46 for use in pulling the lock pin 40 away from the first device 1.

It will be appreciated that each of the locking pins 40, 50 acts in co-operation with features of the body 30 of the first device 1 to allow for releasable pin locking interaction therewith.

Thus, referring to Figure 3, the body 30 of the first device 1 is provided with a climbing line anchor pin 40 receiving first channel 62 having an opening 60 of diameter slightly bigger than that of the collar 42 of the climbing line anchor pin 40, and defining a recess 61 for receipt of that collar 42. In assembled form, the first end of the tubular pin body 41 is received by that first channel 62, and the second end 44 of the tubular pin body 41 is received by a second channel 64 provided diametrically opposite. The second channel 64 is further provided with ball lock receiving cavities 67, 68 for receipt of the ball form retaining elements 47, 48 of the common line anchor pin 40.

In use, the climbing line anchor pin 40 is initially separated from the body 30 of the first device 1. During system assembly, the second end 44 is introduced into the first channel 62 by way of the opening 60 until it protrudes into the oval body opening 31. The first eye end 12 of the climbing line 10 is then looped over that second end, and the second end of the anchor pin 40 introduced into the second channel 64 until such point as the ball form retaining elements 47, 48 lock into the receiving cavities 67, 68. The climbing line anchor pin 40 and thus also, the first eye end 12 of the climbing line 10 are now locked onto the first device 1. Release of the common line anchor pin 40 is by inwards pushing action on the first end 45 of the tubular pin bolt 43 to release the ball form retaining elements 47, 48 from the receiving cavities 67, 68.This release step is optionally followed by pulling action on the release cord 46 to pull the climbing line anchor pin 40 away from the device 1.

Now also referring to Figures 3 and 6, the body 30 of the first device 1 is also provided with a friction line anchor pin 50 receiving first channel 72 having an opening 70 of diameter slightly bigger than that of the collar (not visible) of the friction line anchor pin 50, and defining a recess 71 for receipt of that collar. In assembled form, the first end 52 of the tubular pin body 51 is received by that first channel 72, and the second end 54 of the tubular pin body 51 is received by a second channel 74 provided diametrically opposite. It will also be noted that the body is also provided with a first friction line eye end 22 receiving slot-form cavity 37 adjacent to the first end 52 of the tubular pin body 51 and a second friction line eye end 24 receiving slot-form cavity 38 adjacent to the second end 54 of the tubular pin body 51. The second channel 74 is further provided with ball lock receiving cavities 67, 68 for receipt of the ball form retaining elements of the common friction line anchor pin 50 (not visible, but similar to the ball form retaining elements 47, 48 of the common line anchor pin 40).

In use, the common friction line anchor pin 50 is initially separated from the body 30 of the device. During system assembly, its second end 54 is then introduced into the first channel 72 by way of the opening 70 until it protrudes into the first slot-form cavity 37. The first eye end 22 of the friction line 10 is then looped over that second end 54, and the second end of the friction line anchor pin 50 introduced further into the oval loop opening 35 and then into the second channel 74 until it protrudes into the second slot-form cavity 38. After forming a hitch 26 around the running side of the climbing line 10, the second eye end 24 of the friction line 10 is then looped over that second end 54 The friction line anchor pin 50 is then introduced further into the second channel 74 until such point as the ball form retaining elements thereof (not visible) lock into the ball receiving cavities 77, 78. The common friction line anchor pin 50 and thus also, the first and second eye ends 22, 24 of the friction line 20 are now locked onto the first device 1 with the first and second ends 22, 24 of the friction line protruding from respective first and second slot-form cavities 37, 38 of the body 30. Release of the common friction line anchor pin 50 is by inwards pushing action on the first end 55 of the tubular pin bolt to release the ball form retaining elements from the receiving cavities 77, 78. This release step is optionally followed by pulling action on a release cord (akin to release cord 46) to pulling the common friction line anchor pin 50 away from the first device 1.

It is preferable that the respective first ends 45 _:> 55 of the climbing line anchor pin 40 and common friction line anchor pin 50 are covered over, and thus protected from any inadvertent pushing force during climbing use of the first device 1. As shown in detail at Figure 5 and described in relation to the climbing line anchor pin 40 (but also applicable to the common friction line anchor pin 50), the first end 45 of the tubular pin bolt 43 may be protected by a rubber cover 80. A base part 82 of the cover is received flush with the recessed opening 60 of the body and a second cover part 84 of the cover pivots at pivot point 85 thereto. A similar rubber cover 88 is provided to the opening 70 of the common friction line anchor pin 50 (see Figures 1 and 2).

Figures 11 and 12 show different views of a second system herein; Figure 10 shows a second device 101 herein; and Figures 7 to 9 show the body 130 of the second device 101 herein, all for use in self-belay climbing operations. The second device 101 is arranged for receipt of a climbing line 10 and a friction line 20. At Figures 11 and 12, the climbing line 10 is shown looped over a tree branch 14.

The second device 101 comprises a linear chassis form body 130 having a flattened oval body opening 131, which body is formed of a high strength material (e.g. steel or aluminium alloy) that may be seen at Figure 10 to be essentially symmetric about line A-A" (its major axis). The body 130 defines, at a first end part thereof, attachment means in the form of a loop 132 suitable for attachment of the body to a climbing harness (not shown) such as via a karabiner 99 (shown at Figures 11 and 12). The attachment loop 132 is also symmetric about line A-A'.

The body 130 is provided with a climbing line anchor in the form of a climbing line anchor pin 140 (see Figures 10 to 12) for anchoring receipt of a first climbing line eye end 12 of the climbing line 10 to define the standing side of the system set up. It will be noted that the climbing line anchor pin 140 traverses a minor extent of flattened oval body opening 131 of the body 130 and lies perpendicular to axis A-A'. The body 130 is shaped accordingly with holes / apertures for receipt of the climbing line anchor pin 140, more details of which will be described later.

The body 130 is also provided, at a second forked end 133 part thereof with a guide surface in the form of a running receipt pin 134 allowing for guided running receipt of the climbing line 10 at the running side thereof. It will be noted that the running receipt pin 134 traverses a minor extent of the forked end part 133 of the body 130 and lies perpendicular to axis A- A'. The body 130 is shaped at its forked end part accordingly with holes / apertures for receipt of the running receipt pin 134, more details of which will be described later. The curved guide surface of the running receipt pin 134 allows the climbing line 10 to run past it smoothly and enables a hitch 26 provided to the friction line 20 to be tended with one hand by pulling the climbing line 20 up beneath the second device I .

The body 130 is further provided with a first friction line anchor 152 for anchoring receipt of a first friction line eye end 22 of the friction line 20; and spaced from the first friction line anchor 152, a second friction line anchor 154 for anchoring receipt of a second friction line eye end of the friction line (not clearly visible, but the arrangement is analogous to that shown in Figures 1 and 2 for the first device 1). The first and second friction line anchors are defined by first 152 and second 154 opposing end parts of a common friction line anchor pin 150. The body 130 is shaped accordingly with holes / apertures for receipt of the common friction line anchor pin 50, more details of which will be described later. It will be noted that the climbing line anchor pin 140 and the common friction line anchor pin 150 are oriented parallel to each other.

The friction line 20 is provided with a friction hitch 26, which is used to establish a downward-movement limiting relationship between the second device 101 (as attached to harness/climber) and the climbing line 10. Thus in a typical climbing operation, as the climber ascends the friction hitch 26 is loosened and a defined travel of the climbing line 10 is pulled through the hitch 26. The hitch 26 is then re-tightened to maintain the desired generally taught relationship between climber and supporting feature. The process is repeated over increments of ascent travel. Similarly, on descent, the friction hitch 26 is again loosened and a defined travel of the climbing line 10 allowed to run through the hitch 26 to allow for descent through an associated distance of travel until the desired generally taught relationship between climber and supporting feature is restored. Again, the process is repeated over increments of descent travel. It will be noted that a passage 135 is defined between the inner surface 136 of the forked end

133 and the curved guide surface 134 provided by the running receipt pin 134 at the second end part of the linear chassis form body 130, which passage is arranged to receive the running side of the climbing line 10. The definition of this passage 135 acts to increase the fluidity of flow of the climbing line 10, at the running side, through the second device 101. The location of the common friction line locking pin 150 also acts to prevent inversion of the hitch 26 provided to the friction line 20 through the system and also acts to prevent rub on the eye end 12 (e.g. splice thereof) on the stationary end of the climbing line 10.

More details of the anchor pin 140, 150 and running pin 134 aspects of the device are now described by particular reference to Figure 10. Whilst performing different functions, the climbing line anchor pin 140, common friction line anchor pin 150 and running receipt pin

134 may both be provided as lock pins of similar general type, which preferably have a quick release action and are thus, sometimes called quick release pins. In embodiments, all pins 134, 140, 150 are of the same size.

As previously described in relation to the first device 1, Figure 4 shows suitable types of lock pin for use as the climbing line anchor pin 140, the common friction line anchor pin 150 or the running receipt pin 134. It will be appreciated that each of the locking pins 134, 140, 150 acts in co-operation with features of the body 130 of the second device 101 to allow for releasable pin locking interaction therewith.

Thus, referring to Figure 10, the body 30 of the second device 1 is provided with a climbing line anchor pin 140 receiving first channel 162 having an opening 160 of diameter slightly bigger than that of the collar 142 of the climbing line anchor pin 140, and defining a recess 161 for receipt of that collar 142. In assembled form, the first end of the tubular pin body 140 is received by that first channel 162, and the second end 144 of the tubular pin body 141 is received by a second channel 164 provided diametrically opposite. The second channel 164 is further provided with a recessed rim 167 defining a ball lock receiving cavity for receipt of the ball form retaining elements 147, 148 of the common line anchor pin 140. In use, the climbing line anchor pin 140 is initially separated from the body 130 of the second device 101. During system assembly, the second end 144 is introduced into the first channel 162 by way of the opening 160 until it protrudes into the oval body opening 131. The first eye end 12 of the climbing line 10 is then looped over that second end, and the second end of the anchor pin 140 introduced into the second channel 164 until such point as the ball form retaining elements 147, 148 lock into the receiving cavity 167. The climbing line anchor pin 140 and thus also, the first eye end 12 of the climbing line 10 are now locked onto the second device 101. Release of the common line anchor pin 140 is by inwards pushing action on the first end 145 of the tubular pin bolt 143 to release the ball form retaining elements 147, 148 from the receiving cavity 167.This release step is optionally followed by pulling action on a release cord provided to the first end 145 (not shown, but see analogous feature 46 at pin 40 of Figure 4) to pull the climbing line anchor pin 140 away from the device 101.

Now also referring to Figure 10, the body 130 of the second device 101 is also provided with a friction line anchor pin 150 receiving first channel 172 having an opening 170 of diameter slightly bigger than that of the collar 159 of the friction line anchor pin 150, and defining a recess 171 for receipt of that collar. In assembled form, the first end 152 of the tubular pin body 151 is received by that first channel 172, and the second end 154 of the tubular pin body 151 is received by a second channel 174 provided diametrically opposite. It will also be noted that the body is also provided with a first friction line eye end 22 receiving slot-form cavity 137 adjacent to the first end 52 of the tubular pin body 51 and a second friction line eye end 24 receiving slot-form cavity 138 adjacent to the second end 154 of the tubular pin body 151. The second channel 174 is further provided with a rim recess 177 defining a ball lock receiving cavity for receipt of the ball form retaining elements 157, 158 of the common friction line anchor pin 150.

In use, the common friction line anchor pin 150 is initially separated from the body 130 of the device. During system assembly, its second end 154 is then introduced into the first channel 172 by way of the opening 170 until it protrudes into the first slot-form cavity 137. The first eye end 22 of the friction line 10 is then looped over that second end 154, and the second end of the friction line anchor pin 150 introduced further into the second channel 174 until it protrudes into the second slot-form cavity 138. After forming a hitch 26 around the running side of the climbing line 10, the second eye end 24 of the friction line 10 is then looped over that second end 154 The friction line anchor pin 150 is then introduced further into the second channel 174 until such point as the ball form retaining elements 157, 158 thereof lock into the ball receiving cavity 177. The common friction line anchor pin 150 and thus also, the first and second eye ends 22, 24 of the friction line 20 are now locked onto the second device 101 with the first and second ends 22, 24 of the friction line protruding from respective first and second slot-form cavities 137, 138 of the body 130. Release of the common friction line anchor pin 150 is by inwards pushing action on the first end 155 of the tubular pin bolt to release the ball form retaining elements 157, 158 from the receiving cavity 177. This release step is optionally followed by pulling action on a release cord (akin to release cord 46) to pull the common friction line anchor pin 150 away from the second device 101.

Again, referring to Figure 10, the body 130 of the second device 101 is provided with a running receipt pin 134 receiving first channel 192 having an opening 190 of diameter slightly bigger than that of the collar 139 of the running receipt pin 134, and defining a recess 191 for receipt of that collar 139. In assembled form, the first end of the running receipt pin 134 is received by that first channel 192, and a second end of the running receipt pin is received by a second channel 194 provided diametrically opposite. The second channel 194 is further provided with a recessed rim 197 defining a ball lock receiving cavity for receipt of ball form retaining elements 127, 128 of the running receipt pin 134. In use, the running side of the climbing line 10 runs within the passage 135 defined between the inner surface 136 of the forked end 133 and the curved guide surface provided by the running receipt pin 134 at the second end part of the linear chassis form body 130.

The application of which this description and claims form part may be used as a basis for priority in respect of any subsequent application. The claims of such subsequent application may be directed to any feature or combination of features described therein. They may take the form of product, method or use claims and may include, by way of example and without limitation, one or more of the following claims: