Introduction

1.1 Background info

A scissors platform, also known as aerial work platform (AWP), elevating work
platform (EWP) or mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) is a mechanical device used
to provide temporary access for people or equipment to inaccessible areas, usually at
height. They can be operated with hydraulics, pneumatics or mechanically via screws or a
rack-and-pinion system. They are either unpowered units, requiring an external force to
move them, self-propelled with controls at the platform or mounted to a vehicle for
movement.
The scissors platform invention is widely credited to John L. Grove, an American
inventor and industrialist. However, even before his first model, a company named Selma
Manlift introduced a model in 1966. As for John L. Grove, after selling his previous
business, Grove Manufacturing, in 1967 he and his wife headed out on a road trip. During
a stop at the Hoover Dam, Grove witnessed two workers electrocuted while working
on scaffolding. Through this tragic event John Grove saw a large untapped market for a
product that could put workers in the air more safely to perform construction and
maintenance tasks.When Grove returned home from his trip, he formed a partnership
with two friends, bought a small metal fabrication business, and began designing
concepts for the aerial work platform. The company was named JLG Industries Inc., and
with the aid of 20 employees it released its first aerial work platform in 1970. Scissors
platforms eventually began being designed with a variety of additional features. Many are
now equipped with electrical outlets, compressed air connectors, and various other
adaptations for tools.

An example of a simple scissor lift

1.2 Special features/ Functions of Scissors platform

The scissors platform 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. The
design of lift is usually less than a ton with high safety. They are capable of being set up
and operated by a single person. Regardless of the task they are used for, scissors
platforms may provide additional features beyond transport and access, including being
equipped with electrical outlets or compressed air connectors for power. They may also
be equipped with specialist equipment, such as carrying frames for window glass. Under
bridge units are also available to lift operators down to a work area.
There are several distinct types of aerial work platforms: aerial device, scissors
life and hotel lift. Let us look into more details for these platforms, 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 windowcleaning or other maintenance operations, especially indoors and in isolated courtyards,
where heavier hydraulic equipment cannot be used. For scissor lift, it 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 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. 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. The controls can control features such as:

Vertical movement
Lateral movement
Rotational movement (cardinal direction)
Platform / basket movement 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)