Remote Locking Roof Access Hatch US patent No: 8,369,057 B2

Description

The present invention is generally directed toward an apparatus for opening a roof access hatch from the ground.
An electrically operated remote unlocking and opening mechanism for a building roof access hatch is disclosed. A key-operated control panel at a distance remote to the roof access hatch unlocks and opens the roof access hatch so that the person accessing the hatch does not have to release both hands from the ladder. When a person activates the system from the control panel, the control panel directs the locking mechanism to unlock the roof access hatch and then directs the opening mechanism to open the roof access hatch. The system has a battery backup in the event of power failure and could be opened manually in the case of an emergency. Additional safety features may also be incorporated, such as sensors to prevent the hatch from closing while a person is accessing the opening and mechanisms to prevent the hatch from being blown shut by wind gusts.