Operating Formats - TEUFELBERGER CECLIMB Mode D'emploi

OPEraTiNG fOrmaTs

OPEraTiNG fOrmaTs
The Hitch Climber System is a doubled (running) rope work positioning system. A loop of rope is
installed into/around an anchor point. The length of loop is altered by a controlling rope move-
ment through a friction hitch adjuster. Ascent or descent occurs as the loop either increases or
decreases in length.
Many permutations of doubled rope systems exist. The basic operating formats of the Hitch
Climber System are shown in this section. They allow the user to become familiar with the equip-
ment prior to adopting more advanced techniques required for work positioning in more complex
situations.
A wider range of operating formats, including work positioning, rescue and load hauling tech-
niques, are included in our guidance booklet entitled The Hitch Climbers Guide to the Canopy
available as a download from TEUFELBERGER: www.teufelberger.com/en/products/treecare or
www.treemagineers.com.
Ascend
To ascend, the loop of rope must be shortened. This can be done in a number of ways. It is im-
portant that any slack generated during ascent is minimised to levels acceptable for a work posi-
tioning system. Two examples of 'slack free' ascending techniques are presented below:
1) Place both hands on the running side of the climbing line. Reach up
and place one hand some distance above the friction hitch, place the
other hand immediately below the friction hitch. Pull down on the rope
with both hands at the same time until the upper hand is close to the top
of the friction hitch (Valdôtain tresse). Still gripping the rope, allow the
rope to travel in the opposite direction for a short distance until the fric-
tion hitch grabs. Release the rope and move both hands to their starting
position. Repeat until the ascent is complete. Note that the Hitch Climber
System is symmetrical i.e. the hand positions can be reversed to maintain
physical balance.
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