US Patent 6981573 Scaffold lift system

A scaffolding system has a pair of vertical posts supporting a platform traveling vertically on the posts. A traveler device attaches to and engages each of the vertical posts and supports the platform. Each traveler device has a sprocket gear engaging a complementary track extending up the post so that rotation of the gear moves the traveler device along the vertical post and lifts and lowers the platform. The traveler device has a worm type drive gear configured for receiving a driver and meshing with the sprocket gear. The drive gear is operated with a power drill or a crank drive. The platform includes a foot operated brake device providing a back up system to prevent the platform from accidentally dropping.