27.06.2022

Leak containment patents granted

US based aerial lift manufacturer MEC Aerial Work Platforms has completed the patent process for its LCS - Leak Containment System from the US Patent Office, as well as those of Canada and Europe.

The product uses a system of trays integrated within the machine, both slab electric scissor lifts and mast lifts. Unlike external add on items such as diapers, it does not interfere with any basic functions, such as the pothole protection system, steering, static strap or access to emergency stops and ground controls. The trays are also protected from the weather, debris or forklift damage.

The patents awarded are: United States Patent No. 11,112,060, European Patent No. 3,437,962 and Canadian Patent No. 3,021,925), all of which are said to be extensive and all encompassing.


Vice president engineering Gary Crook, who is also credited on the patent as the inventor, said: “This hat-trick of patent awards in the United States, Europe and Canada formally acknowledges MEC’s industry changing innovation. We have heard from customers around the world and appreciate that they won’t settle for any of the lesser options which have started to enter the marketplace.”

Vertikal Comment

A number of competitors are now introducing their own quite similar, leak containment systems, driven by growing customer demand, especially on 'fit-out' contracts within large new 'clean manufacturing' facilities or warehouses.

Given the bad blood that has been stirred up by recent legal and political actions to block or hamper companies like MEC, which import some of their machines or components from China, through the imposition of tariffs, it is likely that MEC will not be hesitant to issue Cease & Desist notices or take legal further action against those manufacturers that it feels have contravened their patents.

Interesting times