Gekkomat

Climbing aid

During a conceptual research about climbing aids for search and rescue, military and law enforcement operations on buildings, e.g. in case of fire, an autonomous climbing aid was developed. The “Gekkonaut” wears effectors on his hands and feet, which, similar to suction cups, function with vacuum and can carry up to one metric ton. On his back the energy supply unit comprises pressurized cylinders providing almost unlimited use. The Gekkomat copes with a plurality of smooth and rough surfaces. The time of operation varies from 20 minutes up to 4 hours. The technology shows the currently known state of the art concerning weight, holding force, and energy consumption. Commercially derived is the “Laddermaster”, which, mounted on top of high rise ladders, can literally lock down to walls at any height and no more requires aids for stabilization on the ground.