CAPSTANS; WINCHES; TACKLES, e.g. PULLEY BLOCKS; HOISTS (winding or unwinding ropes or cables for feeding or storage purposes B65H; rope or cable winding or unwinding mechanisms for lifts B66B)

Description

B66D encompasses mechanical devices and systems for lifting, lowering, and hauling loads through rotational or leverage mechanisms. This subclass covers capstans (rotating drums), winches (motorized or manual winding mechanisms), pulley block systems, tackle arrangements, and hoist equipment used in construction, maritime, industrial, and material-handling applications. The classification includes both the mechanical components and drive systems (electric, hydraulic, manual) that enable load movement, as well as control mechanisms and safety features integral to these devices. Adjacent classes address related lifting technologies such as elevators (B66B) and general hoisting apparatus, while B66D focuses specifically on rope-and-pulley-based or rotational drum systems for load handling.

Filing statistics

CPC subclass B66D recorded 19,077 patent applications worldwide between 2013 and 2023. Annual filings grew from 925 in 2013 to 1,759 in 2023 (+90%), peaking at 2,301 applications in 2020. The most active applicants in class B66 are INVENTIO (3,939 applications), OTIS ELEVATOR COMPANY (3,810 applications) and KONE CORPORATION (3,008 applications).

Source: EPO PATSTAT, worldwide filings