Fall protection device with settable cable length and rollable shell

Abstract

The present invention relates to a safety device comprising a fall protection device and a rollable protective shell surrounding the fall protection device wherein the shell comprises: a housing; a first contact surface ring surrounding the housing; and a second contact surface ring surrounding the housing; wherein the first contact surface ring and the second contact surface ring each comprise a plurality of continuous curved surfaces; wherein the housing, the first contact surface ring and the second contact surface ring provide a first aperture for access to a first actuator of the fall protection device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a rollable protective shell for a fall arrest device. In particular, the present invention provides a rollable shell for use with a self-retracting lifeline device having a mechanism for setting or limiting the maximum length of cable that can be paid out from the device. Background Art

[0002] Fall protection devices are used to prevent personnel from suffering injuries due to falling from an elevated working position (e.g., a roof). Fall protection devices are generally referred to as height safety systems or fall protection systems. The device may include a so-called safety block, which is arranged to be suspended from an anchoring structure. Such an arrangement may include a drum on which a cable is wound, a speed response mechanism arranged to inhibit the drum from rotating above a predetermined rotational speed, and an energy absorber device arranged to be activated when a load above a predetermined threshold is deployed when the speed response mechanism is deployed. The cable is then attached to a safety belt worn by the user. Summary of the invention

[0003] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a safety device, the device comprising:

[0004] fall protection equipment, and

[0005] a rollable protective shell surrounding the fall arrest device, wherein the shell comprises:

[0006] case;

[0007] a first contact surface ring surrounding the housing; and

[0008] a second contact surface ring surrounding the housing;

[0009] wherein the first contact surface ring and the second contact surface ring each include a plurality of continuous curved surfaces;

[0010] Wherein the housing, the first contact surface ring and the second contact surface ring provide a first hole for accessing a first actuator of the fall arrest device.

[0011] Advantageously, the safety device comprises an extendable cable configured to secure a user to the fall arrest device, wherein the cable is extendable to a maximum length adjustable by manipulating a first actuator of the fall arrest device.

[0012] In any embodiment, the fall prevention device may include:

[0013] a drum configured to have a cable wound thereon;

[0014] a speed responsive engagement assembly arranged to inhibit rotation of the spool above a predetermined rotational speed; and

[0015] a traveler configured to move in response to rotation of the drum, wherein the traveler is configured to activate the speed responsive engagement assembly when a predetermined length of cable has been paid out; and

[0016] The first actuator.

[0017] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of using the safety device, comprising:

[0018] attaching the housing to an anchor point;

[0019] setting a maximum length of a cable that the fall arrest device will pay out using the first actuator; and

[0020] attaching the housing to a user,

[0021] The user's movement causes the rollable protective cover to roll on a resting surface by means of the first contact surface ring and the second contact surface ring.

[0022] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of manufacturing a security device, comprising:

[0023] providing a fall arrest device, the fall arrest device comprising a first actuator for setting a maximum length of a cable to be paid out by the fall arrest device;

[0024] providing a shell enclosing the fall prevention device;

[0025] providing the housing with a first contact surface ring and a second contact surface ring, wherein at least one of the first contact surface ring and the second contact surface ring comprises a plurality of continuous curved surfaces, such that the housing, the first contact surface ring and the second contact surface ring allow manipulation of the first actuator via a space between the contact surface rings;

[0026] Wherein the contact surface ring is configured to prevent the first actuator from contacting a rest surface. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Illustrative embodiments of a fall prevention device will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0028] Figure 1 An embodiment of a safety device is shown, the safety device comprising a fall arrest device enclosed in a rollable protective shell;

[0029] Figure 2A second embodiment of a safety device is shown, the safety device comprising a fall arrest device enclosed in a rollable protective shell;

[0030] Figure 3 Shows Figure 2 A side view of the safety device shown in;

[0031] Figure 4 One embodiment of a safety device for use by a user is shown;

[0032] Figure 5a Shows Figure 4 A close-up of the safety device shown in ;

[0033] Figure 5b shows an exemplary path along which the first surface contact ring and the second surface contact ring may travel as the security device rolls along a resting surface;

[0034] Figure 6 shows an end view of a safety device including a fall arrest device enclosed in a rollable protective shell;

[0035] Figure 7 is an exploded view of a settable length fall arrest device that may be enclosed in a rollable protective shell as described herein; and

[0036] Figure 8 Shows Figure 7 Front view of the fall arrest device when assembled. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] As used herein, the singular form "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0038] Unless otherwise indicated, all ranges or ratios disclosed herein are understood to include the starting and ending values ​​and all subranges or subratios contained therein. For example, a specified range or ratio of "one to ten" is considered to include any and all subranges or subratios between (and including) a minimum of one and a maximum of ten; that is, all subranges or subratios starting with a minimum of one or more and ending with a maximum of ten or less. The ranges and / or ratios disclosed herein represent average values ​​over the specified ranges and / or ratios.

[0039] The terms “first,” “second,” etc. are not intended to refer to any particular order or sequence, but rather to different conditions, attributes, or elements, and are merely used to distinguish one element from another similarly named element.

[0040] All documents mentioned herein are "incorporated by reference" in their entirety.

[0041] The term "arc" is used to mean curved. A curve may be an arc of a circle or an arc of any portion of an ellipse.

[0042] The term "at least" is synonymous with "greater than or equal to."

[0043] As used herein, "at least one" is synonymous with "one or more." For example, the phrase "at least one of A, B, or C" means any one of A, B, or C, or any combination of any two or more of A, B, or C. For example, "at least one of A, B, and C" includes A alone; or B alone; or C alone; or A and B; or A and C; or B and C; or all of A, B, and C.

[0044] The words "comprising" and "comprises" and the like do not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those listed in any claim or the specification as a whole. In this specification, "comprises" means "includes", and "comprising" means "including".

[0045] The present disclosure includes the following embodiments or aspects in any combination, consists of the following embodiments or aspects, or consists essentially of the following embodiments or aspects. Various embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure are shown in separate figures. However, it should be understood that this is merely for ease of illustration and discussion. In the practice of the present disclosure, one or more embodiments or aspects shown in one figure may be combined with one or more embodiments or aspects shown in one or more other figures. As used herein, "cable" and "lifeline" are used synonymously to refer to a line that directly or indirectly attaches a user to a fall protection device as described herein.

[0046] Embodiments of the systems and methods herein relate to fall arrest devices. A self-retracting lifeline (SRL) is a type of fall arrest device that includes a rewinding mechanism configured to automatically pay out and retract a cable as needed to allow a user to move around the device while keeping the cable taut. A drum on which the cable is wound is thus biased to rewind the cable onto the drum.

[0047] Some fall protection devices (including self-retracting lifeline devices) may not prevent the user from falling. Instead, they may be designed to stop the descent of the user's fall and attempt to limit any injuries suffered due to the fall. Any fall or fall protection event may cause some pain and trauma to the user, whether mentally or physically. Therefore, in addition to reducing the injuries associated with falling, it may be desirable to reduce the possibility of a user falling completely while wearing a fall protection device. One option for reducing the possibility of a user falling (without making any changes to the worksite itself) is to limit the length of the cable released from the fall protection device so that the user cannot reach the very edge of the worksite. Limiting the cable length can also reduce the tripping hazard for the user and other personnel in the area. Depending on the details of the worksite (e.g., the distance from the anchor point to the release, the number of workers working near the worksite, the equipment present at the worksite), the desired maximum cable payout length may vary from one operating scenario to the next. Therefore, a fall protection device can be provided that enables the maximum cable payout length to be configured, such as by manipulating a control in the form of a dial or other mechanism.

[0048] One example of a fall arrest device that allows a user to set the maximum length of a cable that can be paid out is described in U.S. Patent No. 10,207,128 issued to Hetrich and assigned to MSA Technology, LLC of Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. There, the maximum length of the cable that can be paid out is controlled by a plurality of gears and a pivot mechanism.

[0049] Fall protection devices are typically connected to an anchor point near foot (or surface) level, or suspended from an anchor point above head height. In some cases, the device must be anchored at foot level (e.g., when working on a flat roof, etc.). If the fall protection device is anchored at floor level, the device will be dragged on the floor (or other surface on which it is supported) as the user moves around the site. This can damage the fall protection device and important safety labels attached to the outer shell of the device. If the shell, the working mechanism of the fall protection device, and / or the safety information are compromised, the device may need to be replaced because it no longer functions as necessary to keep the user safe. This is expensive and inconvenient. Certain embodiments herein can mitigate these hazards and otherwise improve the performance of the fall protection device.

[0050] Figure 1 A safety device is shown comprising a fall arrest device enclosed in a rollable protective shell 160 comprising a housing 159 , a first contact surface ring 164 and a second contact surface ring 168 .

[0051] The fall arrest device enclosed within the housing 159 (not visible through the housing 159) includes a drum around which the cable 102 is wound and paid out through an outlet (not visible from this angle) in the housing 159. The fall arrest device may include one or more actuators (not shown) for adjusting various settings of the fall arrest device, such as the maximum amount of cable 102 that can be paid out.

[0052] The contact surface rings 164, 168 allow the shell 160 to roll smoothly on a resting surface (e.g., floor, roof) during use, the resting surface being the surface on which the shell 160 rests via the contact surface rings 164, 168. Figure 5a and 5b The ability of the shell to roll following the shape of the path traveled by the contact surface ring during rolling is discussed in more detail. In an embodiment, the contact surface rings 164, 168 are the only portions of the shell 160 that contact the resting surface during proper operation. Each of the first and second contact surface rings 164, 168 can be integral with the shell 159, or one or both can be reversibly attached to the shell 159.

[0053] The housing 159 also includes a connector 194 for securing the housing 159 enclosing the fall arrest device to an anchor (not shown). In any embodiment, the connector 194 can be, for example, a shackle or an eyelet. In any embodiment, the connector 194 can be bolted or otherwise attached to the housing 159. The housing 159 also includes a cable outlet (not shown) through which the cable 102 of the fall arrest device can extend. The housing 159 (and the housing 160) can be circumferentially connected to the housing 159 (see, e.g., FIG. 1 ). Figure 4 and 5a ) rolling, the axis can be defined as from the end of the housing 159 including the cable outlet ( Figure 1 The bottom of the housing 159 extends to the opposite end of the housing 159 including the connector 194 ( Figure 1 ).

[0054] The first contact surface ring 164, the second contact surface ring 168 and the housing 159 of the rollable protective shell 160 provide a first hole 162 (e.g., an opening) through which an actuator (not shown) of the fall protection device enclosed therein can be accessed for manipulation by a user. Thus, neither the first contact surface ring 164 nor the second contact surface ring 168 hinders manipulation of the actuator. Optionally, the first contact surface ring 164 together with the housing 159 of the shell 160 provide a second hole 176 through which an optional second actuator (not shown) of the fall protection device enclosed therein can be accessed for manipulation by a user.

[0055] Figure 2An embodiment of a safety device comprising a rollable protective case 260 is depicted, the rollable protective case comprising a housing 259, a first contact surface ring 264 integral with the housing 259, and a second contact surface ring 268 reversibly connected to the housing 259 by an attachment mechanism 291, which may be, for example, a bolt or screw. The housing 259 also includes a connector 294 for securing the housing 259 to an anchor (not shown). The housing 259 also includes a cable outlet 201 through which a cable 202 of the fall arrest device may extend.

[0056] exist Figure 2 In the embodiment shown, the cable outlet 201 is eccentrically positioned on the safety device 260, which, combined with the tension applied by the safety device 260 and the user (not shown) on the cable 202, causes the safety device 260 to rotate so that the cable 202 is in an elevated position relative to the resting surface on which the safety device is located. This will be related to Figure 4 Further description.

[0057] The first contact surface ring 264, the second contact surface ring 268 and the housing 259 of the rollable protective shell 260 provide a first hole 262, through which the first actuator 272 of the anti-fall device enclosed therein can be accessed for manipulation by the user. Optionally, the first contact surface ring 264 and the housing 259 of the shell 260 together provide a second hole 276, through which the second actuator 278 of the anti-fall device enclosed therein can be accessed for manipulation by the user.

[0058] The first actuator 272 can be of any type suitable for adjusting any aspect of the function of the fall prevention device. For example, in some embodiments, the first actuator 272 is a dial to set the length of the cable 202 that can be paid out from the fall prevention device. In some embodiments, the maximum length of the cable 202 that can be paid out from the fall prevention device can be controlled by placing the traveler within the traveler wheel, which will be described below with respect to Figure 7 Further discussion. The second actuator 278 can be of any type to adjust any aspect of the function of the fall arrest device. For example, in some embodiments, the second actuator 278 controls whether the cable 202 can be released. In some embodiments, this aspect can be controlled, for example, by the engagement and disengagement of a stopper, which will be discussed below with respect to Figure 7 Further discussion.

[0059] Optionally, the housing 259 may include a window 271 to display the settings of the actuators (eg, the first actuator 272) of the fall prevention device.

[0060] Figure 3 A side view of a security device including a rollable protective case 260 is depicted, wherein like reference numerals denote the same as those in FIG. Figure 2Similar elements discussed above, the rollable protective shell includes a shell 259, a first contact surface ring 264 and a second contact surface ring 268, each of which is constructed and shaped to provide a first hole 262 that allows a user to access the first actuator 272. Optionally, the first contact surface ring 264 is constructed and shaped to provide a second hole 276 that allows a user to access the second actuator 278. The shell 259 surrounding the fall prevention device includes a connector 294 for securing the shell 259 (and the fall prevention device therein) to an anchor (not shown). The cable 202 of the fall prevention device extends through a cable outlet on the shell 259 (not visible from the angle shown) and can be attached to a safety belt (not shown) on the user.

[0061] Figure 4 One embodiment of a security device for use by a user 498 is depicted, wherein like reference numerals denote similar Figure 2 and 3 Similar elements discussed above. The fall prevention device is enclosed in a rollable protective shell 260, which includes a shell 259, a first contact surface ring 264 and a second contact surface ring 268. The rollable protective shell 260 rests on a contact surface 490 via the first contact surface ring 264 and the second contact surface ring 268. A connector 294 secures the shell 259 surrounding the fall prevention device to an anchor 496 on the resting surface 490. The cable 202 of the fall prevention device extends through a cable outlet on the shell 259 (not visible from the angle shown) and is attached to a point on the user 498, such as a safety belt. As described above with respect to Figure 2 As described, the cable outlet (not visible) is eccentrically positioned on the safety device 260, which, combined with the tension applied by the safety device 260 and the user 498 on the cable 202, causes the safety device 260 to rotate so that the cable 202 is in an elevated position relative to the resting surface 490, thereby preventing the cable 202 from contacting and potentially being damaged by the resting surface 490 or any object also resting thereon. It should be noted that although the anchor 496 is Figure 4 4 is depicted on the same resting surface 490 on which a user 498 stands, but the anchor 496 may be in any position relative to the user 498, for example, in an elevated position. It is also important to note that the drawings are schematic diagrams that are not drawn to scale.

[0062] In use, when the user 498 moves around the resting surface 490, the rollable protective shell 260 can roll smoothly around the structural anchor 496 with the help of the first and second surface contact surface rings 264, 268. This prevents the shell 259 from being scratched along the resting surface 490 and being damaged. In addition, the first contact surface ring and the second contact surface ring 264, 268 are constructed and sized to be sufficient to prevent the first actuator 272 from contacting the resting surface 490, thereby preventing damage to the first actuator 272. In addition, the first contact surface ring and the second contact surface ring 264, 268 are constructed and shaped to provide the first hole 262 and the optional second hole 276 to allow the user to access to manipulate the first actuator 272 and the optional second actuator 278.

[0063] Figure 5a Depicted Figure 4 264 and 268. A close-up view of a safety device in which like reference numerals represent like elements. The housing 259 enclosing the fall protection device is capable of rotating about a rotation axis 592 (dashed line, see arrow) oriented in the same direction as the cable 202. This is advantageous because it ensures that the cable 202 does not get tangled when the housing 259 enclosing the fall protection device rolls with the aid of the first contact surface ring 264 and the second contact surface ring 268 of the rollable protective shell 260. The rotation axis 592 is inclined relative to the resting surface 490. The first contact surface ring 264 and the second contact surface ring 268 each include a plurality of continuous curved surfaces. In some embodiments, such as Figure 5a As shown in , the plurality of continuous curved surfaces of at least one of the first contact surface ring 264 and the second contact surface ring 268 include at least one convex portion and at least one concave portion. For example, Figure 5a The second contact surface ring 268 includes a protrusion 580 and a recess 582. Similarly, Figure 5a The first contact surface ring 264 includes a protrusion 570 and a recess 571. However, although each of the first and second contact surface rings 264, 268 is a non-circular, irregular shape, the shape of the rollable protective shell including the housing 259 and the first and second contact rings 264, 268 is generally as follows: Figure 5a The cone or frusto-conical shape shown by bold lines 489 and 490 (which also represent the resting surface) and rolls smoothly like a cone along the resting surface as shown by arrow 593.

[0064] The safety device rolls on a single arcuate path on the resting surface, however, the path of one or more of the first contact surface ring and the second contact surface ring may not follow a single arcuate path. Figure 5bAn arcuate path 599 (e.g., a path passed through a center point 560 (e.g., center of mass, centroid, other centrally located point) of the device on a resting surface 590 that may be traveled by a safety device including a fall arrest device enclosed in a rollable protective shell is generally depicted. Figure 5b Also depicted are paths 565, 569 that the first contact surface ring 564 and the second contact surface ring, respectively, travel relative to the resting surface 590. Each path 565, 569 is defined by the contact position of each of the first contact surface ring 564 and the second contact surface ring 568, respectively, on the resting surface 590. In general, the device traverses an arcuate path 599 around the anchor 596, which is defined by the rolling of the truncated (conical) shaped shell. However, each of the first contact surface ring path 565 and the second surface ring contact path 569 can each include multiple discontinuous arcuate portions (e.g., not a single smooth arc), the specific shape and size of which is defined by the size and shape of the surface contact rings 264, 268.

[0065] Figure 6 Depicted Figure 5a 660, which includes a rollable protective shell 660, which includes a fall arrest device (not visible through the shell 659), a shell 659, a first surface contact surface ring 664, and a second surface contact ring 668. The curved dashed line 699 shows how the conical or frustoconical rollable protective shell can roll around the axis of rotation during use. The radius of the curved dashed line 699 is determined by the relative frustoconical cross-sectional dimensions of the contact surface rings 664, 668. For example, the second contact surface ring 668 can be generally elliptical and characterized by a major diameter 684 (dashed line) and a minor diameter 686 (dashed line). The first contact surface ring 664 can also be characterized by a first major diameter 685 (dash-dotted line) and a first minor diameter 687 (dash-dotted line). The dimensions of the first contact surface ring and the second contact surface ring 664, 668 also prevent the first actuator 672 from contacting the resting surface. The shapes of the first and second contact surface rings 664, 668 also inhibit rolling of the housing 660 along any other axis of rotation.

[0066] Figure 7 is an exploded view of one embodiment of a settable length fall arrest device 700 that can be enclosed by a rollable protective shell, the rollable protective shell comprising a shell, a first contact surface ring, and a second contact surface ring, as disclosed herein. The fall arrest device 700 can be secured to one or more inner surfaces of the shell by any attachment mechanism (such as bolts, screws, glue, etc.). For example, in Figure 7 In the embodiment, screws (or the like) may be used to reversibly attach the fixing holes 703 on the fall arrest device 700 to similar holes on the housing.

[0067] The fall arrest device 700 shown is a self-retracting lifeline device of the type described in US Patent No. 10,653,903 to Jones et al. and assigned to Latchways Plc. of Devizes, England. However, it should be appreciated that other types of fall arrest devices may be used with the rollable protective shell of the present disclosure.

[0068] The fall prevention device 700 includes a rotatable drum 704 on which a cable 702 is wound. The drum 704 is mounted to a rotatable shaft (not shown). The drum 704 is biased by a rewinding mechanism (not shown) to rewind the cable 702 onto the drum 704, so it is a self-retracting lifeline device.

[0069] A speed responsive engagement assembly is provided that includes a pawl carrier 708, a pawl 710, and a pawl stop structure 712. Figure 7 In the embodiment shown in, the speed responsive engagement assembly is as described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,653,903. However, it should be appreciated that other speed responsive engagement assemblies may be provided, such as those described in detail in U.S. Pat. No. 9,132,301 to Jones et al. and assigned to Latchways Plc. of Devizes, England.

[0070] In some embodiments, three spaced pawls 710 are pivotally mounted to the pawl carrier 708. In some embodiments or aspects, two pawls or four or more pawls may be provided. A bias spring 714 pushes each pawl 710 radially inward toward the pawl carrier 708 to a home position so that the pawl 710 does not engage the pawl stop structure 712. In normal use, the cable 702 is paid out from the device 700, causing the drum 704, the shaft and the pawl carrier 708 to rotate together. In a fall arrest event, the cable 702 is paid out faster. When the centrifugal force overcomes the biasing force of the spring 714, the speed at which the drum 704, the shaft and the pawl carrier 708 rotate causes the pawl 710 to pivot radially outward to an activated position. This causes one of the pawls 710 to engage a pawl stop structure 712 attached to the chassis frame of the device 700 or formed integrally therewith. Once this occurs, the pawl carrier 708 is locked and secured relative to the chassis frame of the device, thereby preventing further rotation of the pawl carrier 708 along with the spool 704 and shaft.

[0071] If the torque applied by the fall arrest event is sufficient, the drum 704 and shaft will continue to rotate. This can cause additional cable 702 to be paid out and the user to continue to descend. In this case, the energy absorber ring (not shown) will absorb the energy of the relative rotation between the pawl bearing 708 and the shaft collar until the descent is complete.

[0072] It should be appreciated that in some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, an external energy absorber device may be provided instead of an internal energy absorber ring. The external energy absorber device is typically connected between the cable 702 and the user. An example of a suitable device is described in British Patent No. 2572019 issued to Jones et al. and assigned to Latchways Plc. of Devizes, UK.

[0073] exist Figure 7 , the settable length fall prevention device of the present disclosure includes a stop assembly 740, a carrier plate 730, a traveler 716, and a traveler plate 718. The fall prevention device is configured to be mounted to the pawl carrier 708. Advantageously, the fall prevention device (i.e., the carrier plate 730, the traveler 716, and the traveler plate 718) can be attached to the existing fall prevention device 700 as an add-on or bolt-on.

[0074] The traveler plate 718 includes a plurality of radial spokes 720 mounted to the front of the traveler plate 718. The spokes 720 are evenly spaced around the traveler plate 718. In this embodiment or aspect, the traveler plate 718 includes five locking spokes 722 and five non-locking spokes 724. Figure 7 , the locking spoke 722 has a raised profile that is configured to abut a point 752 of the stop 742, thereby preventing the tracker plate 718 from rotating. The non-locking spoke 724 has a flat profile and is configured to pass under the stop 742 without engaging the point 752. It should be appreciated that in some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a different number of locking spokes 722 may be provided and / or no non-locking spokes 724 may be provided.

[0075] The traveler plate 718 includes a central hole 719 for receiving a bolt therethrough. A single bolt (not shown) can be inserted through holes 719 and 734 to mount the traveler plate 718 and the carrier plate 730 to the pawl carrier 708.

[0076] The spiral path 756 extends radially outward from the vicinity of the central hole 719 toward the circumference of the advancer plate 718 between the starting point 126 and the end point 128 of the path. The number of turns of the spiral path 756 is not limited to Figure 1 and 2 In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the spiral path 756 can be a curved path (eg, including one turn or less).

[0077] In some embodiments, the carrier plate 730 includes a central hole 734 for receiving a bolt therethrough. A rear portion of the carrier plate (not shown) may be keyed to the pawl carrier 708. The carrier plate 730 is configured to be mounted to the pawl carrier 708 and rotate therewith.

[0078] The carrier plate 730 includes a guide 736 extending from the circumference of the carrier plate 730 toward the central hole 734. The guide 736 extends transversely to the axis of rotation of the drum 704.

[0079] exist Figure 7 In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the guide 736 may additionally or alternatively include one or more slides or rails. The traveler 716 may be mounted to slide along the track or slide of the guide 736. The traveler 716 includes a protrusion or projection 738. In use, the traveler 716 is clamped between the carrier plate 730 and the traveler plate 718 in a manner that enables the traveler to "ride" within the spiral path 756 (of the traveler plate 718). The starting position of the traveler projection 738 along the spiral path 756 determines the length of the cable 702 that can be released from the anti-fall device 700. When the cable 702 is released from the device, the carrier plate 730 rotates relative to the traveler plate 718, which is held in a fixed position by the stop 742. This causes the protrusion 738 of the traveler 716 to move along the helical path 756 of the traveler plate 718 , and simultaneously the traveler 716 slides radially outward along the radial channels 736 in the carrier plate 730 .

[0080] In some embodiments, a stop assembly 740 is provided that includes a stop 742, a biasing member 744, and a stop base 746. The stop base 746 includes a pair of mounting holes 748 that are arranged to align with holes 750 on the chassis frame of the fall arrest device. The stop 742 is generally V-shaped in shape, having a tip 752 and a pair of legs 754. It should be appreciated that the stop 742 is not limited to Figure 7 The shapes shown in .

[0081] In some embodiments, the stopper 742 is movable between an engaged position, in which the stopper 742 holds the traveler plate 718 in a fixed position, and a disengaged position, in which the traveler plate 718 is free to rotate. An actuator (such as a latch or a button) configured to move the stopper 742 may be provided on a housing of the fall prevention device (not shown). A biasing member 744 biases the stopper 742 toward the engaged position.

[0082] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A front view of the fall protection device 700 in FIG. 1 when assembled, wherein the same reference numerals denote Figure 7The same elements discussed above. The traveler plate 718 is mounted to the carrier plate 730 about the carrier center hole (not visible) and the traveler center hole 719. The stop 742 is in the engaged position. A point 752 in the locking spoke 722 abuts the stop 742, preventing the traveler plate 718 from rotating with the pawl carrier 708. The projection 738 of the traveler 716 is positioned toward the starting point 726 of the spiral path 756.

[0083] When the cable 702 is paid out from the device in direction A (under normal conditions, not in a fall arrest event), the drum 704, pawl carrier 708 and carrier plate 730 rotate together in direction B relative to the traveler plate 718, which is held in a fixed position by the stop 742. This causes the protrusion 738 of the traveler 716 to move along the spiral path 756 of the traveler plate 718 in the direction of arrow B (in this case, in a clockwise direction). This causes the traveler 716 to rotate in a clockwise direction. Figure 8 The carrier plate 730 slides radially outward in the linear direction indicated by the middle arrow C along the radial channel 736 in the carrier plate 730 .

[0084] Under normal conditions, the traveler 716 will move linearly radially outward along the radial channel 756 until the pawl 710 of the speed response engagement assembly is received in a slot (not visible from the angle shown) on the rear of the traveler 716 and the pawl 710 is pushed into engagement with the pawl stop structure 712. This locks the pawl carrier 708 and prevents additional cable 702 from being paid out, as described above. Therefore, the closer the initial position of the traveler 716 is to the starting point 726 of the spiral path 756 in the traveler plate 718, the more cable 702 can be paid out before the speed response engagement assembly locks the device 700. For example, the starting position of the traveler 716 can be set to ensure that the user is restricted from moving away from the edge of the worksite because the maximum amount of cable 702 that can be paid out before the traveler 716 engages the pawl 710 is less than the distance to the edge of the worksite.

[0085] If a fall arrest event occurs before the traveler 716 reaches a position where the pawl 710 is pulled (or pushed) into engagement with the pawl stop structure 712, the speed response engagement mechanism engages as if no element was present to allow the cable length of the fall arrest device to be set.

[0086] If the force in direction A pulling (or tensioning) the cable 702 is removed before the traveler 716 engages the pawl 710, the drum 704 will rotate in the direction opposite to arrow B (counterclockwise) to retract the cable 702 onto the drum 704. The traveler plate 718 remains in a fixed position relative to the carrier plate 730. This will cause the traveler 716 to travel back along the spiral path 756 toward the starting position 726, thereby causing the traveler 716 to slide radially inward along the channel 756 in the direction opposite to arrow C.

[0087] Advantageously, even in a fall arrest event, the carrier plate 730, the traveler plate 718, the traveler 716 and the stop assembly 740 are not load bearing. Therefore, they can be made of cost effective and lightweight plastic.

[0088] exist Figure 7 and Figure 8 , the traveler 716 is configured to move outward (or radially outward) in response to the rotation of the drum 704 to pay out the cable 702. However, in some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the traveler 716 can be configured to move inward in response to the rotation of the drum 704 to pay out the cable 702.

[0089] It should also be appreciated that the traveler 716 may be any type of actuator configured to move in response to rotation of the drum 704 and activate the speed responsive engagement assembly when a predetermined length of the cable 702 has been paid out. A traveler plate and a carrier plate need not be provided.

[0090] Aspects of the fall protection device and rollable protective case disclosed herein have been described by way of example only, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of protection provided by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A safety device, comprising: fall protection equipment, and a rollable protective shell surrounding the fall arrest device, wherein the shell comprises: case; a first contact surface ring surrounding the housing; and a second contact surface ring surrounding the housing; wherein the first contact surface ring and / or the second contact surface ring each comprises a plurality of continuous curved surfaces; The housing and the first contact surface ring and / or the second contact surface ring provide a first hole for accessing a first actuator of the fall arrest device.

2. The safety device of claim 1 , further comprising an extendable cable configured to secure a user to the fall arrest device, wherein the cable is extendable to a maximum length that is optionally adjustable by manipulating a first actuator of the fall arrest device.

3. A safety device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first contact surface ring and the housing further provide a second hole for accessing a second actuator of the fall arrest device.

4. The safety device according to claim 3, wherein the second actuator is a stop actuator for enabling and / or disabling the feeding of the cable of the fall arrest device.

5. A safety device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the plurality of continuous curved surfaces comprises at least one convex portion and at least one concave portion and / or has a directional component extending to at least one direction perpendicular to the main plane of the corresponding contact surface ring and / or parallel to the rotation axis of the protective shell.

6. The safety device of any one of claims 1-5, wherein at least one of the following is true: the first contact surface ring has two first ring diameters, and the second contact surface ring has two second ring diameters.

7. The safety device of claim 6, wherein the first contact surface ring has at least one first ring diameter that is different from at least one of the second ring diameters.

8. A safety device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first contact surface ring and / or the second contact surface ring are arranged and configured to contact a resting surface, optionally so as to enable the housing to roll about the rotation axis.

9. The safety device of claim 8, wherein the rollable protective shell rolls on a single arcuate path, wherein optionally at least one of the first contact surface ring and the second contact surface ring rolls on a path comprising a plurality of discontinuous arcuate portions.

10. The safety device of claim 8, wherein the rotation axis is inclined at an angle relative to a resting surface.

11. A safety device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first contact surface ring and / or the second contact surface ring are arranged and / or configured to allow a user to access the first aperture.

12. The safety device according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein the first contact surface ring and / or the second contact surface ring are arranged and / or configured to prevent the actuator of the fall arrest device from contacting the resting surface during rolling.

13. A safety device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the housing is conical or frusto-conical.

14. The safety device of any one of claims 1-13, wherein at least one of the first contact surface ring and the second contact surface ring is integral with the housing.

15. A safety device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein at least one of the contact surface rings is reversibly attached to the housing.

16. A safety device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the housing further comprises a connection point for receiving a connector, the connector optionally being used to connect the housing to an anchor.

17. The safety device according to any one of claims 2 to 16, wherein the fall prevention device comprises: a drum configured to have a cable wound thereon; a speed responsive engagement assembly arranged to inhibit rotation of the spool above a predetermined rotational speed; as well as a traveler configured to move in response to rotation of the drum, wherein optionally the traveler is configured to activate the speed responsive engagement assembly, optionally when a predetermined length of cable has been delivered; and The first actuator.

18. A safety device according to claim 17, wherein a traveler of the fall arrest device is movable between a starting position and an end position, wherein optionally the end position is arranged such that the traveler engages a component of the speed responsive engagement assembly.

19. The safety device of claim 18, wherein a starting position of the traveler of the fall arrest device can be optionally adjusted via the first actuator to set the predetermined length of the cable.

20. A safety device according to claim 19, wherein when the stopper engages with the traveler plate, the feeding of the cable of the anti-fall device is disabled, and / or when the stopper disengages from the traveler plate, the feeding of the cable of the anti-fall device is enabled, wherein optionally, the engagement of the stopper with the traveler plate is controlled by the second actuator.

21. The safety device of any one of claims 1-20, wherein the fall arrest device is a self-retracting lifeline (SRL) device.

22. A method of using a safety device according to any one of claims 1 to 21, comprising: attaching the housing to an anchor point; setting a maximum length of a cable to be released by the fall prevention device using the first actuator; as well as attaching the housing to a user, The user's movement causes the rollable protective cover to roll on a resting surface by means of the first contact surface ring and / or the second contact surface ring.

23. A method of manufacturing a safety device, comprising: providing a fall arrest device, the fall arrest device comprising a first actuator for setting a maximum length of a cable to be paid out by the fall arrest device; providing a shell enclosing the fall prevention device; providing the housing with a first contact surface ring and a second contact surface ring, wherein at least one of the first contact surface ring and the second contact surface ring comprises a plurality of continuous curved surfaces, such that the housing and the first contact surface ring and / or the second contact surface ring allow manipulation of the first actuator via a space between the contact surface rings; Wherein the contact surface ring is configured to prevent the first actuator from contacting a rest surface.

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