BOBB Concrete Block Lifting & Wall Building System
The BOBB (Brick or Block Builder) is a pneumatic concrete block lifting and handling system developed by Ergonomic Partners to help workers lift, position, and place heavy concrete and segmental retaining-wall blocks. It provides controlled vertical lifting and load-floating assistance so blocks can be moved through the working area and positioned for wall construction with less manual handling.
BOBB can be configured around the block, required capacity, reach, working height, and gripping method. The system combines a supported lifting structure, pneumatic load control, and application-specific gripping tooling for retaining-wall and similar masonry applications where repetitive lifting and precise placement of heavy blocks create ergonomic and productivity challenges.
BOBB Concrete Block Handling Applications
BOBB can be configured to lift, move, and position heavy concrete blocks during retaining-wall and masonry construction. The examples below show the system in block-handling and wall-building applications.
BOBB Specifications & Configuration
More Accurate Placement
Controlled load positioning helps operators place blocks more precisely during wall construction.
Reduced Manual Handling
Mechanical lifting assistance reduces repetitive heavy lifting by the operator.
Reduced Block Damage
Load-floating assistance can help reduce impacts and block damage during positioning.
System Specifications
- Load CapacityUp to 150 lb
- Maximum ReachUp to 12 ft
- Vertical Travel10 ft working zone
- PowerPneumatic
- Air SupplyCompatible with a portable gas-powered compressor
- Base AdjustmentMultiple forklift pockets
- LevelingIntegrated leveling jacks
Available Configuration Options
- Custom Mast HeightsConfigured around the required working height and application.
- Wire Rope ExtensionsAvailable for applications requiring more than 10 feet of cable travel.
- Custom End ToolingCustom gripping and handling tooling can be developed for specific block or load requirements.
- Custom PaintAvailable for specific application or environmental requirements.
See additional Ergonomic Lift Assist examples for custom end-tooling applications.
How the BOBB Handles the Load
The BOBB combines pneumatic load-float control, grip tooling, and check-valve protection to help the operator move and place heavy blocks with greater control.
Load-Floating Assistance
Helps the operator float and position the block for controlled placement.
Check-Valve Protection
Helps hold the unit in position if air pressure is lost.
Stainless-Steel Grip Jaws
Accommodate a range of concrete and cinder block sizes.
How the BOBB Works for Retaining-Wall Construction
Operating Sequence
- Grip the block. The pneumatically powered grip tool secures the block for lifting and positioning.
- Lift and move the load. The vertical lifting system allows the operator to move the block through the working area with load-floating assistance.
- Select the appropriate float setting. Choose the setting for unloaded, fully loaded, or partially loaded conditions.
- Position and place the block. Use the partially loaded setting during final positioning so the block can be set into place.
Three Load-Float Settings
- Setting 1 – Tool Unloaded: Used when the gripping tool is not carrying a block.
- Setting 2 – Tool Fully Loaded: Supports the full block load while it is being lifted and positioned.
- Setting 3 – Tool Partially Loaded: Reduces the supported load during final placement.
The pneumatic controls switch between the unloaded and loaded settings as the grip/release control is operated. The partially loaded setting can be selected during final placement when the operator wants the block to carry some of its own weight.
Need a BOBB system configured for your block-handling application?
Ergonomic Partners can configure the system around block size, load capacity, reach, working height, and gripping requirements. Contact us about your block-handling application →
Ergonomic Partners designs and manufactures BOBB concrete block lifting and wall-building systems for retaining-wall and masonry applications. We serve clients from coast to coast, Canada, Mexico, and are especially focused in Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, South Carolina, Florida, and Oklahoma.