Editing Aerial work platform

{{Short description|Truck with mechanical device for lifting people up to high places}}
{{Redirect|Cherry picker}}
{{Distinguish|Aerial lift}}
{{More citations needed|date=April 2016}}
[[File:Replacing an advertising poster in London using an articulated platform 02.JPG|thumb|right|Replacing an advertising poster in London using an aerial work platform.]]

An '''aerial work platform''' ('''AWP'''), also an '''aerial device''', '''aerial lift''', '''boom lift''', '''bucket truck''', '''cherry picker''', '''elevating work platform''' ('''EWP'''), '''mobile elevating work platform''' ('''MEWP'''), or '''scissor lift''', is a mechanical device used to provide temporary access for people or equipment to inaccessible areas, usually at height. There are various distinct types of mechanized access platforms.

They are generally used for temporary, flexible access purposes such as maintenance and construction work or by firefighters for emergency access, which distinguishes them from permanent access equipment such as elevators. They are designed to lift limited weights&nbsp;— usually less than a ton, although some have a higher safe working load (SWL)<ref name="CE" />&nbsp;— distinguishing them from most types of [[Crane (machine)|cranes]]. They are usually capable of being set up and operated by a single person.

Regardless of the task they are used for, aerial work platforms may provide additional features beyond transport and access, including being equipped with [[electrical outlets]] or compressed air connectors for power tools. They may also be equipped with specialist equipment, such as carrying frames for window glass.<ref name="CE">''[http://www.constructionequipment.com/article/CA6412860.html Specialized Aerial Work Platforms Stretch Makers' Market Share]'' (from www.constructionequipment.com, Thursday 1 February 2007)</ref> Underbridge units are also available to lift operators down to a work area.<ref name="Underbridge units">''[http://www.universalplatforms.co.uk/docs/Universal%20Access%20Guide%202012.pdf Universal Access Platform Guide]''(from www.universalplatforms.co.uk, Thursday 4 October 2012)</ref>

As the name suggests, cherry pickers were initially developed to facilitate the picking of cherries. Jay Eitel invented the device in 1944 after a frustrating day spent picking cherries using a ladder. He went on to launch the Telsta Corporation, Sunnyvale, CA in 1953 to manufacture the device.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.liftandaccess.com/content/cherry-picker-founder-passes-away |title = 'Cherry Picker' Founder Passes Away |publisher=Lift and Access}}</ref><ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gXLSa0U3nws cherry picker invention recalled at 59.59</ref> Another early cherry picker manufacturer was Stemm Brothers, Leavenworth, WA.<ref>''[[Popular Mechanics]]'', July 1950. p. 107.</ref> Other uses for cherry pickers quickly evolved.<ref>''[[Popular Science]]'', October 1955. p. 111.</ref>

==Lifting mechanisms==
[[File:JLG 450 AJ 2.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Articulated lift being demonstrated]]

There are several distinct types of aerial work platforms, which all have specific features which make them more or less desirable for different applications. The key difference is in the drive mechanism which propels the working platform to the desired location. Most are powered by either [[Hydraulic machinery|hydraulics]] or possibly [[pneumatics]]. The different techniques also reflect in the pricing and availability of each type.

=== Aerial device ===
Aerial devices were once exclusively operated by hydraulic pistons, powered by diesel or gasoline motors on the base unit.  Lightweight electrically powered units are gaining popularity for window-cleaning or other maintenance operations, especially indoors and in isolated courtyards, where heavier hydraulic equipment cannot be used.  Aerial devices are the closest in appearance to a crane – consisting of a number of jointed sections, which can be controlled to extend the lift in a number of different directions, which can often include "up and over" applications.<ref name= lift>{{cite web |title=Aerial Work Platforms |url=https://www.heavyliftgroup.co.uk/aerial-work-platforms.php |website=heavyliftgroup.co.uk}}</ref>

====Articulated====
The most common type of aerial device are known in the AWP industry as knuckle boom lifts or articulated boom lifts, due to their distinctive shape, providing easy access to awkward high reach positions.<ref name= lift/>

This type of AWP is the most likely of the types to be known as a "'''cherry picker'''", owing to its origins, where it was designed for use in [[orchard]]s (though not just cherry orchards). It lets the picker standing in the transport basket pick fruit high in a tree with relative ease (with the jointed design ensuring minimum damage to the tree). The term "cherry picker" has become generic, and is commonly used to describe articulated lifts (and more rarely all AWPs).

====Straight telescopic boom====
Another type of aerial device is a straight boom lift or telescopic boom lift, which as its name suggests has a boom that extends straight out for direct diagonal or vertical reach by the use of [[telescoping (mechanics)|telescoping]] sections, letting you take full advantage of the boom length range.

====Spider legs====
Some AWPS are classified as spider lifts due to the appearance of their legs as they unfold, extend and stabilise, providing a wide supportive base to operate safely. These legs can be manual or hydraulic (usually depending on size and price of the machine).

====Domains of use====
AWPs are widely used for maintenance and construction of all types, including extensively in the power and telecommunications industries to service overhead lines, and in [[arboriculture]] to provide an independent work platform on difficult or dangerous trees. A specialist type of the articulated lift is the type of [[fire apparatus#Hydraulic platform|fire apparatus]] used by firefighters worldwide as a vehicle to provide high level or difficult access. These types of platforms often have additional features such as a piped water supply and [[water cannon]] to aid firefighters in their task.

=== Scissor lift ===
[[File:Hebebuehne Scissorlift.jpg|thumb|right|200px|An extended scissor lift]]
A scissor lift is a type of platform that can usually only move vertically. The mechanism to achieve this is the use of linked, folding supports in a criss-cross X pattern, known as a [[pantograph]] (or [[scissor mechanism]]). The upward motion is achieved by the application of pressure to the outside of the lowest set of supports, elongating the crossing pattern, and propelling the work platform vertically. The platform may also have an extending deck to allow closer access to the work area, because of the inherent limits of vertical-only movement.
[[File:JCB S1930E Scissor Lift at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, hyderabad.jpg|thumb|JCB S1930E Scissor Lift at [[Rajiv Gandhi International Airport]], [[Hyderabad]]]]
The contraction of the scissor action can be hydraulic, pneumatic or mechanical (via a [[leadscrew]] or [[rack and pinion]] system). Depending on the power system employed on the lift, it may require no power to descend, able to do so with a simple release of hydraulic or pneumatic pressure. This is the main reason that these methods of powering the lifts are preferred, as it allows a [[fail-safe]] option of returning the platform to the ground by release of a manual valve.

Apart from the height and width variables, there are a few considerations required when choosing a scissor lift. Electric scissor lifts have smaller tyres and can be charged by a standard power point. These machines usually suit level ground surfaces and have zero or minimal fuel emissions. Diesel scissor lifts have larger rough terrain tyres with high ground clearance for uneven outdoor surface conditions. Many machines contain outriggers that can be deployed to stabilise the machine for operation.

=== Hotel lift ===
There are a number of smaller lifts that use mechanical devices to extend, such as [[rack and pinion]] or [[screw]] threads. These often have juxtaposed sections that move past each other in order to facilitate movement, usually in a vertical direction only. These lifts usually have limited capability in terms of weight and extension, and are most often used for internal maintenance tasks, such as changing light bulbs.

==Motive mechanisms==
[[File:Gatulykta 1929.jpg|thumb|right|A 1920s version in [[Sweden]], for work on public [[street light]]s.]]
AWPs, by their nature, are designed for temporary works and therefore frequently require transportation between sites, or simply around a single site (often as part of the same job). For this reason, they are almost all designed for easy movement and the ability to ride up and down truck ramps.

===Unpowered===
These usually smaller units have no motive drive and require external force to move them. Dependent on size and whether they are wheeled or otherwise supported, this may be possible by hand, or may require a vehicle for towing or transport. Small non-powered AWPs can be light enough to be transported in a pickup truck bed, and can usually be moved through a standard doorway.

===Self-propelled===
These units are able to drive themselves (on [[wheel]]s or [[Caterpillar track|tracks]]) around a site (they usually require to be transported to a site, for reasons of safety and economy). In some instances, these units will be able to move whilst the job is in progress, although this is not possible on units which require secure outriggers, and therefore most common on the scissor lift types. The power can be almost any form of standard mechanical drive system, including electric or gasoline powered, or in some cases, a hybrid (especially where it may be used both inside and outside).

Such person lifts are distinguished from [[telescopic handler]]s in that the latter are true cranes designed to deliver cargo loads such as [[pallet]]s full of construction materials (rather than just a person with some tools).

===Vehicle-mounted===
Some units are mounted on a vehicle, usually a [[truck]]. They can also be mounted on a flat-back pick-up van known as a self drive, though other vehicles are possible, such as [[flatcar]]s. This vehicle provides mobility, and may also help stabilize the unit&nbsp;– though outrigger stabilizers are still typical, especially as vehicle-mounted AWPs are amongst the largest of their kind. The vehicle may also increase functionality by serving as a mobile workshop or store.{{Explain|reason=|date=January 2021}}

== Control ==
[[File:Aerial Work Platforms - Japan - 2012.ogv|thumb|(video) Three aerial work platform trucks work together on [[utility pole]]s, in [[Bunkyo]], [[Japan]].]]
The power assisted drive (if fitted) and lift functions of an AWP are controlled by an operator, who can be situated either on the work platform itself, or at a control panel at the base of the unit. Some models are fitted with a panel at both locations or with a remote control, giving operator a choice of position. A control panel at the base can also function as a safety feature if for any reason the operator is at height and becomes unable to operate his controls. Even models not fitted with a control panel at the base are usually fitted with an emergency switch of some sort, which allows manual lowering of the lift (usually by the release of hydraulic or pneumatic pressure) in the event of an emergency or power failure.

Controls vary by model, but are frequently either buttons or a [[joystick]]. The type and complexity of these will depend on the functions the platform is able to perform, such as:
* Vertical movement
* Lateral movement
* Rotational movement ([[cardinal direction]])
* Platform / basket movement&nbsp;— normally, the system automatically levels the platform, regardless of boom position, but some allow overrides, tilting up to 90° for work in difficult locations.
* Ground movement (in self-propelled models)

== Safety ==
[[File:Roskilde S1.jpg|right|thumb|Telescoping articulated platform mounted on [[Fire apparatus|firefighting appliance]] in Denmark. These provide more flexibility than ladder engines.]]
The majority of manufacturers and operators have strict safety criteria for the operation of AWPs. In some countries, a licence and insurance is required to operate some types of AWP. Most protocols advocate training every operator, whether mandated or not. Most operators adopt a checklist of verifications to be completed before each use. Manufacturers recommend regular maintenance schedules.

Work platforms are fitted with safety or guard rails around the platform itself to contain operators and passengers. This is supplemented in most models by a restraining point, designed to secure a [[safety harness]] or fall arrester. Some work platforms also have a lip around the floor of the platform itself to avoid tools or supplies being accidentally kicked off the platform. Some protocols require all equipment to be attached to the structure by individual lanyards.

When using AWPs in the vicinity of [[overhead power line]]s, users may be electrocuted if the lift comes into contact with electrical wiring. Non-conductive materials, such as [[fiberglass]], may be used to reduce this hazard. 'No Go Zones' may be designated near electrical hazards to ensure the safety of the user.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://esv.vic.gov.au/technical-information/electrical-installations-and-infrastructure/no-go-zones/|title=No Go Zones and working around powerlines|website=Energy Safe Victoria|language=en-AU|access-date=2019-10-21}}</ref>

AWPs often come equipped with a variety of tilt sensors. The most commonly activated sensor is an overweight sensor that will not allow the platform to raise if the maximum operating weight is exceeded.  Sensors within the machine detect that weight on the platform is off-balance to such a point as to risk a possible tip-over if the platform is raised further. Another sensor will refuse to extend the platform if the machine is on a significant incline. Some models of AWPs additionally feature counterweights, which extend in order to offset the danger of tipping the machine inherent in extending items like booms or bridges.

As with most dangerous mechanical devices, all AWPs are fitted with an emergency stop button which may be activated by a user in the event of a malfunction or danger. Best practice dictates fitting of emergency stop buttons on the platform and at the base as a minimum. Other safety features include automatic self-checking of the AWP's working parts, including a voltmeter that detects if the lift has insufficient power to complete its tasks and preventing operation if supply voltage is insufficient. Some AWPs provide manual lowering levers at the base of the machine, allowing operators to lower the platform to the ground in the event of a power or control failure, or unauthorized use of the machine.

==Rental equipment==
{{Unreferenced section|date=January 2021}}
AWPs are often bought by equipment rental companies, who then rent them out to construction companies or individuals needing these specialized machines. The market for these machines is known to be marked by especially strong [[boom and bust]] cycles, and after a great demand in the 1990s, the market crashed in 2001, leading to a strong contraction amongst the manufacturers.  The industry began a strong growth period again in 2003 that resulted in peak shipments in 2007 prior to the economic crash in 2008.  The 2008 crash has caused a strong consolidation amongst rental companies and the industry reached high unit shipment levels again in 2018.

== See also ==
* [[Fire engine#Early aerials|Early aerials]]
* [[Forklift truck]]
* [[Helix tower]]
* [[Lift table]]
* [[Long reach excavator]]

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

== External links ==
{{Commons category}}
* [http://www.ipaf.org/ International Powered Access Federation]

{{Authority control}}

[[Category:1944 introductions]]
[[Category:American inventions]]
[[Category:Articles containing video clips]]
[[Category:Vehicles by type]]
[[Category:Vertical transport devices]]

[[ru:Автомобиль-вышка]]