Belt for preventing persons from falling comprising a two-piece fitting part

Abstract

The invention relates to a belt (1) for preventing persons from falling, comprising a fitting part (10) and at least a first and a second belt sub-element encompassing a body part, wherein the fitting part (10) comprises a body (11), which is designed to connect to the first belt sub-element and to the second belt sub-element and to a flexible bridge (7), wherein the body (11) of the fitting part (10) comprises a first part (12) and a second part (13), which can be brought into an assembled state and into a separated state, wherein the first part (12) and / or the second part (13) comprises at least a first outer groove (16) for the first belt sub-element, wherein in the assembled state of the two parts (12, 13), the first groove (16) is completed by the respective other part (12, 13) to form the first belt strap opening (15) passing through the body (11) in order to semi-permanently connect a first belt strap (6) of the first belt sub-element encompassing the body part, to the fitting part (10) in said opening.

Description

[0001] Belt for personal fall protection comprising a two-part fitting

[0002] The invention relates to a belt for personal fall protection comprising a fitting part and at least a first and a second body-part-enclosing belt sub-element, wherein the fitting part comprises a body which is designed for connection to the first belt sub-element, to the second belt sub-element and to a flexible bridge.

[0003] In the field of personal safety, particularly in tree care, harnesses are used to protect climbers from falls. The harnesses usually comprise several sub-elements that surround the body, such as a hip belt, chest strap and / or leg loops. The sub-elements are connected to one another using fittings, and it is usually possible to attach additional elements such as rope bridges to the fittings. Typically, one fitting is provided on the left and one on the right of the harness, and the rope bridge is attached between the fittings, depending on the design of the fitting, using knots or loops at the ends of the rope bridge. The rope bridge can therefore be used as an anchor point, e.g., it can be hooked into a safety device, allowing the user to lean back safely.

[0004] Designs with shackles as fittings are known, whereby a webbing of the hip belt, a webbing of the leg loop, and one end of the rope bridge are hung on a U-shaped body of the shackle during assembly. The U-shaped body can be closed using a bolt, so that these elements are fixed to the shackle. When assembled, the end of the rope bridge then usually rests on the bolt. The disadvantage of these designs is that when the bolt is removed, all elements are released, and there are no dedicated webbing openings, meaning that all the webbing or the flexible bridge rub against each other. However, the modularity of this design, particularly with regard to the interchangeability of the rope bridge, has always been considered a positive feature.

[0005] Other fittings are designed as rigid bodies and feature two separate webbing openings for the hip belt webbing and the leg loop webbing, respectively. A bridge hole is also provided in which the rope bridge can be secured using a stopper knot.

[0006] An obvious modification known from EP 3 332 840 A proposes using the detachable fastening element known from shackles with an otherwise rigid fitting. To achieve this, a bone-shaped fastening strip or attachment strip is screwed externally over the bridge hole. The webbing openings remain unchanged in this embodiment, as is the case with fittings with rigid bodies.

[0007] EP 3 466 493 B1 discloses a fitting provided with an opening on one side. A locking element can be inserted into the opening, completing the shape of the fitting and replacing a partition wall within the fitting. The locking element thus separates the bridge hole from an opening for an anchor point. In this embodiment, the webbing openings remain unchanged, as is the case with fittings with rigid bodies.

[0008] However, belts comprising fittings with bodies interspersed with two webbing openings in the usual way are complex to manufacture and difficult to maintain. First, the belt sub-elements must be provided with webbing, with the ends of the webbing being loose. The webbing is then threaded through the respective webbing openings of the fitting and then sewn into a loop, with the fitting located in the loop. In this way, the belt sub-elements can be permanently connected to the fitting. Replacing the fitting and / or belt sub-elements for maintenance purposes is not possible.

[0009] EP 3 228 362 B1 discloses a harness for personal fall protection. It uses a fitting with two parts connected by a cylindrical pin. A loop of webbing is threaded onto the pin. The pin is mounted for rotation, allowing all individual parts to be rotated relative to each other.

[0010] The object of the invention is to create a belt for personal fall protection which is easier to manufacture and whose elements can be replaced more easily.

[0011] This object is achieved by a belt for personal fall protection comprising a fitting part and at least a first and a second belt sub-element encompassing the body part, wherein the fitting part comprises a body which is designed for connection to the first belt sub-element, to the second belt sub-element and to a flexible bridge, wherein the body is penetrated by a first belt webbing opening and a bridge hole, wherein the body of the fitting part comprises a first part and a second part which can be brought into a joined state and into a separated state, wherein the first part and / or the second part comprises at least one first external groove for the first belt sub-element, wherein in the joined state of the two parts, the first groove is completed by the respective other part to form the first belt webbing opening passing through the body,to semi-permanently connect a first belt strap of the first body-part-enclosing belt sub-element to the fitting part, wherein the body of the fitting part further comprises at least one transverse hole which passes through both the first part and the second part, wherein the fitting part further comprises a screw, and wherein the screw can be guided into the transverse hole and locked therein in order to connect the first part to the second part in the assembled state.

[0012] The two-part fitting of this belt allows the webbing opening, which is separate from the bridge hole, to be designed to be openable, something previously unknown in the prior art. This makes it possible, in a first aspect, for the first time, for the belt sub-elements to be completely manufactured before they are connected to the fitting. This means that the ends of the webbing of the belt sub-elements can be sewn into loops in advance before they are connected to the fitting. In a second aspect, it is possible for the first time for the belt sub-elements or the fitting to be replaced even after initial assembly.

[0013] The term "semi-permanent" connection is used herein synonymously with a "detachable" connection and is intended to emphasize that the two parts are not usually separated from each other in use, but are separable before or after use, preferably by means of tools, e.g. by means of a screwdriver to loosen the screws described below.

[0014] In order to semi-permanently connect the two parts to one another, the body of the fitting preferably has at least one transverse hole, wherein the transverse hole passes through both the first part and the second part, wherein the fitting further comprises a screw, wherein the screw can be guided into the transverse hole and locked therein in order to connect the first part to the second part in the assembled state. Screws with a thread are particularly preferred because they can be easily loosened using a tool and at the same time offer a high level of protection against accidental loosening of the screw and subsequently of the two parts. For this purpose, the transverse hole can have an internal thread, which is, for example, cut directly into the respective part. Alternatively, the transverse hole could have a region with a larger diameter in which a screw nut having the internal thread is inserted.To prevent the screws from loosening due to vibrations, an adhesive could also be provided between the transverse hole and the screw, preferably between the thread of the screw and the internal thread of the transverse hole.

[0015] Locking the screw in the transverse hole has the effect of making it essentially immobile within the transverse hole, meaning it cannot be moved or rotated without tools. This allows the two parts to be connected semi-permanently and non-rotatably to form a rigid body.

[0016] The novel fittings therefore provide a way to assemble and maintain the belt independently of the straps of the belt sub-elements. The solution according to the invention is particularly advantageous when the end of the first strap of the first belt sub-element, which is to be connected to the fitting, is sewn into a loop.

[0017] The first part and the second part are designed as flat parts, so that together they form the flat body of the fitting. In other words, the two parts are not designed as cylindrical pins. However, it is understood that the flat parts can also have a local thickening, e.g., in the region of a transverse hole. The flat parts typically extend in a plane and can, for example, be essentially D-shaped or C-shaped. The flat parts preferably have a flat front side and a flat back side that are parallel to one another.

[0018] When assembled, the two parts typically form the outer contour of the body, meaning neither part is an exclusively internal part of the body. If necessary, a third part can also form part of the outer contour of the body. As a rule, the first part and the second part, or possibly also the first part, the second part, and the third part, together form the entire outer contour of the body, viewed from the front to the back.

[0019] In the assembled state, the loop of the first webbing of the first belt sub-element engages around the first or second part. Likewise, the loop of the second webbing of the second belt sub-element can engage around the first part, the second part, or even a third part. In the assembled state, the first and second parts are preferably connected to one another in such a way that they are rotationally fixed to one another, which can be achieved, for example, by screw connections or guides, as explained below.

[0020] Webbing openings are understood here, in particular, to be openings that essentially have the shape of the webbing to be accommodated, and thus, for example, an elongated shape. The webbing openings are usually designed slightly larger than the webbing to be accommodated to facilitate installation.

[0021] In one embodiment, it would be possible for both the first strap of the first belt sub-element and the second strap of the second belt sub-element to be accommodated in the first strap opening, thus eliminating the need for a second strap opening. However, in this case the straps touch each other, which can lead to wear and tear. To prevent this and to utilize the advantage according to the invention for the straps of both belt sub-elements, the first part and / or the second part preferably comprises at least one second external groove for the second belt sub-element, wherein when the two parts are assembled, the second groove is completed by the respective other part to form a second strap opening passing through the body, in order to connect a second strap of the second belt sub-element encompassing the body part to the fitting part.

[0022] As already explained at the beginning, the body is penetrated by the first belt strap opening (and possibly also by the second belt strap opening) as well as by a bridge hole. In the simplest case, the first or the second part is penetrated by the bridge hole, i.e. the bridge hole is not present as a groove on an outer side of the part. In this case, the flexible bridge can be anchored in the bridge hole by means of a knot. Preferably, however, the first part and / or the second part can comprise at least a third outer groove for the flexible bridge, wherein when the two parts are assembled, the third groove is completed by the other part to form a bridge hole passing through the body in order to connect the flexible bridge to the fitting part. In this way, when the fitting part is assembled, not only the belt straps of the belt sub-elements, but also the flexible bridge can be semi-permanently connected to the fitting part.

[0023] The two aforementioned embodiments have in common that the first part and / or the second part comprises at least one further external groove (for the second belt sub-element or the flexible bridge), wherein when the two parts are assembled, the further groove is completed by the other part to form a further opening penetrating the body (e.g. the second belt webbing opening or the bridge hole). This allows a second belt webbing of the second belt sub-element enclosing the body part or the flexible bridge to be connected to the fitting part. This fitting part thus enables at least two separate openings to be exposed simultaneously when the two parts are taken apart.

[0024] In a preferred variant, the transverse hole is arranged at a predetermined distance from a front side and a back side of the body, ie the transverse hole runs substantially parallel to the front side and the back side between them.

[0025] In contrast to the webbing openings or the bridge hole, which penetrate the front and back of the body when assembled, the transverse hole in this variant enters the body from one side surface and can thus run through both parts, allowing them to be connected with screws. Threaded screws are particularly preferred because they can be easily removed using a tool and simultaneously offer a high level of protection against accidental loosening of the screw and, subsequently, the two parts.

[0026] As an alternative to the aforementioned variant, the transverse hole can also extend through a front and a rear side of the body, i.e., run essentially parallel to the webbing openings and the bridge hole. In this case, one of the parts typically comprises a projection that can be inserted into a groove in the other part, with the transverse hole extending through the projection and the outer sides of the groove.

[0027] As is known to those skilled in the art, the fitting also has a direction of tension, which is the direction in which the fitting is mainly stressed when the belt is in use. As a rule, the fitting is essentially symmetrical about the direction of tension, which also takes minor deviations from the symmetry into account in order to adapt the fitting to anatomical conditions. Since the greatest force acts on the screws in the direction of tension, it is preferred if the transverse hole is arranged at an angle to the direction of tension. Furthermore, it is preferred if two transverse holes, each with one screw, are used and the transverse holes are also arranged symmetrically about the direction of tension, although this is not mandatory. Furthermore, the two parts are also preferably designed symmetrically about the direction of tension.In the simplest case, the direction of pull can be seen as a direction around which the body is mirror-symmetrical, whereby the webbing openings may deviate from the mirror symmetry.

[0028] The screws, or generally the connectors for the semi-permanent connection of the two parts, are typically selected so that the fitting can withstand a static force of at least 23 kN along the tensile direction. To achieve this, the screws have a minimum diameter of 5 mm, for example. This is dimensioned for a case in which two screws are used, these are fully load-bearing in the tensile direction, and the highest strength class is selected for the screws.

[0029] In all of the aforementioned embodiments, it is further preferred if the body comprises a web that divides the bridge hole, i.e., passes through or bridges it. This is particularly advantageous in combination with the aforementioned third groove if the web is also open on one side when the two parts are separated. This allows, in the separated state, an end of the flexible bridge that has been preformed into a loop, in particular sewn, to be pushed onto the web. When the two parts are subsequently assembled, this preformed loop of the flexible bridge can be securely anchored in the bridge hole.

[0030] As previously explained, the body of the fitting and the parts are typically designed symmetrically around a pulling direction. In this variant, the web is preferably parallel to the pulling direction or axis of symmetry, and particularly preferably, the pulling direction or axis of symmetry runs through the web. This makes the web particularly easy to access, as the open end of the web is made accessible by separating the two parts.

[0031] The web is therefore preferably formed integrally on the first part or on the second part and projects from the third groove. Alternatively, the web could be formed as a separate element and inserted, for example, as a pin between the first part and the second part. In both cases, it is further advantageous if the part opposite the web comprises a recess for receiving the web (particularly if the web has a diameter which is less than the thickness of the body) or for receiving an extension of the web when the parts are assembled, since this supports the web on two sides and can therefore withstand greater loads. As an alternative to the recess, a pin could be used which engages in a tubular web.

[0032] In a further preferred embodiment, the aforementioned screw connecting the first part to the second part can also perform a dual function and form the bridge when it passes through the bridge hole. This creates a particularly stable bridge that is more robust than a bridge formed integrally with the second part. Typically, the bridge in this embodiment will be perpendicular to the direction of tension, but an arrangement parallel to the direction of tension is also conceivable.

[0033] To further increase the stability of the body after the two parts have been assembled and to facilitate correct assembly, the first part and the second part preferably have interlocking guide surfaces at those points that touch when the two parts are assembled. These interlocking guide surfaces provide support, in particular, to prevent mutual twisting of the two parts.

[0034] It has proven particularly advantageous if the body has a thickness, measured from the front to the back, of 6 mm to 14 mm, preferably 8 mm to 10 mm. Furthermore, the transverse hole preferably has a diameter of 5 mm to 10 mm, preferably 6 mm to 8 mm.

[0035] Although the harness described herein could be used for all possible purposes, its use as a climbing harness is particularly preferred. In this case, the first harness sub-element is a hip belt and the second harness sub-element is a leg loop, with one webbing of the hip belt typically being located in the first webbing opening and one webbing of the leg loop being located in the second webbing opening. As a rule, this harness will have a further leg loop and a further fitting, which can preferably be made of two parts like the first-mentioned fitting or, in accordance with the prior art, can be made of one piece. Here, too, one webbing of the hip belt is typically guided through a first webbing opening of the further fitting and one webbing of the further leg loop is guided through a second webbing opening of the further fitting.

[0036] The belt described above can be made using the following steps:

[0037] - Providing the two parts in a separate state,

[0038] - Providing the first and second belt sub-elements, wherein the ends of the belt straps of the two belt sub-elements are pre-formed into loops, preferably by sewing,

[0039] Sliding the (first) loop of the belt strap of the first belt sub-element onto the first groove, e.g. by sliding the first loop onto the second part, which forms an outer part of the body, in such a way that the first loop engages around the second part,

[0040] Sliding the (second) loop of the webbing of the second belt sub-element onto the first groove or onto the second groove, e.g. by sliding the second loop onto the second part which forms an outer part of the body in such a way that the second loop engages around the second part, bringing the two parts into the assembled state, wherein the loop of the webbing of the first belt sub-element is located in the first webbing opening and the loop of the webbing of the second belt sub-element is located in the first webbing opening or in the second webbing opening, and if necessary inserting the screw or screws into the transverse hole or the transverse holes for semi-permanently connecting the two parts.

[0041] This manufacturing process can also be used as part of a maintenance procedure where one of the belt sub-elements or the fitting needs to be replaced. First, the two parts are moved from the assembled state to the separated state, the loops are removed from the grooves, and then the aforementioned manufacturing process is carried out.

[0042] If one of the parts comprises said third groove, the manufacturing method further comprises the following steps, which are carried out before bringing the two parts into the assembled state:

[0043] Providing a flexible bridge with one end pre-formed into a loop,

[0044] Slide the loop of the flexible bridge onto the bar or slide the bar through the loop of the flexible bridge.

[0045] When a screw is used as a bridge, it is first guided through a first section of the transverse hole, preferably penetrating both the first and second parts, until the screw protrudes into the bridge hole. The screw is then guided through the loop of the flexible bridge located in the bridge hole. The screw is then pushed further through a second section of the transverse hole, preferably penetrating both the first and second parts. Finally, the screw is preferably screwed into the transverse hole or with a nut located outside the fitting. Advantageous and non-limiting embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0046] Figure 1 shows a state-of-the-art fall protection harness.

[0047] Figures 2a and 2b show a method for connecting belt sub-elements to a fitting part according to the prior art.

[0048] Figures 3a and 3b show a method for connecting belt sub-elements to a fitting part according to the invention.

[0049] Figures 4 to 8 show different embodiments of parts of the body to form openable webbing openings and bridge holes.

[0050] Figures 9a and 9b show a first preferred embodiment of the fitting part according to the invention with two screws.

[0051] Figures 10a and 10b show a second preferred embodiment of the fitting part according to the invention with a screw which can be used as a web in the bridge hole.

[0052] Figures 11a and 11b show a connection of a flexible bridge to a fitting with a static bridge hole.

[0053] Figures 12a and 12b show a connection of a flexible bridge to a fitting with an openable bridge hole and a permanent bar.

[0054] Figures 13a and 13b show a connection of a flexible bridge to a fitting with a static bridge hole and a removable screw as a bar.

[0055] Figures 14a and 14b each show a variant in which a transverse hole for a screw runs through the front and the back.

[0056] Figure 1 shows a harness 1 for personal fall protection, which in the illustrated embodiment is designed as a climbing harness, also referred to as a seat harness or tether. This harness 1 comprises a hip belt 2 and two leg loops 3, which are connected to the hip belt 2 via fittings 4. However, the invention is not limited to this specific embodiment; rather, the harness could also comprise further or different elements, such as a chest strap, in which case the harness could be referred to as a full body harness. In general, elements such as the hip belt 2, the leg loops 3, or a chest strap are referred to as body-enclosing harness sub-elements.

[0057] The strap sub-elements are typically designed as open straps, the ends of which are connected with a buckle 5 to form the strap into a loop that can be wrapped around a body part, as shown in Figure 1. A length adjustment device in the area of ​​the buckle 5 allows the strap sub-elements to be made adjustable in size. Such embodiments can be provided for both the hip belt 2 and the leg loops 3. The strap sub-elements are typically made of textile material and can, for example, be provided with a reinforcing leather part.

[0058] The fittings 4 are used as a connection point between the belt sub-elements. This allows the fittings 4 to simultaneously form a force transmission point between the body of the user of the belt 1 and an anchor point to which the user of the belt 1 is to be secured. To enable even force transmission, one fitting 4 is usually provided on the left and one fitting 4 on the right of the belt 1, and a flexible bridge 7 (such as one or more ropes or a webbing) is suspended between the fittings 4. The bridge 7 can then be attached to an anchor point, which can be facilitated if a ring 8 is located on the bridge between the fittings 4. In the example shown, the bridge 7 is fixed in a bridge hole of the fitting 4 by knotting the bridge at the ends, see the knots 9 in Figure 1. The length can be adjusted by positioning the knot.

[0059] In order to connect the belt sub-elements to one another or to the fittings 4 and to enable good force transmission, the belt sub-elements usually have belt straps 6 which run, for example, through the entire belt sub-element. This achieves particularly good force transmission between the belt straps 6 of a belt sub-element and the body of a user. Figure 1 shows that the hip belt 2, i.e. the first belt sub-element, has a first belt strap 6 and the leg loops 3, i.e. the second belt sub-elements, each have a second belt strap 6. The first belt strap and the second belt strap connect the hip belt 2, i.e. the first belt sub-element, and the leg loops 2, i.e. the second belt sub-elements, to the fitting 4. The first belt strap and the second belt strap could also be made of different materials.

[0060] Figures 2a and 2b show how the straps 6 are connected to the fittings 4 when these are designed as non-openable elements, as is common in the prior art. Figure 2a shows that the straps 6 must first be guided through strap openings in the fittings 4. Only then can the ends of the straps 6 be sewn into a loop, as shown in Figure 2b, in order to create a secure connection between the strap sub-elements and the fitting 4. The mutual connection of the strap sub-elements via the fittings 4 is thus designed to be non-detachable, which means that subsequent replacement of one of the elements is not possible. Furthermore, this manufacturing process has the disadvantage that the loops on the straps 6 cannot be produced in advance, which would be advantageous from a process engineering perspective.

[0061] These disadvantages can be overcome if, as shown in Figures 3a, 3b, a fitting part 10 according to the invention is used, which comprises a body 11 having a first part 12 and a second part 13. The body 11 and subsequently also the parts 12, 13 are preferably made of metal and furthermore preferably designed as flat parts. Such a flat body 11 usually has a thickness, measured from a front side V to a back side R, of 6 mm to 14 mm, preferably of 8 mm to 10 mm. Since it is a flat body, the thickness is usually the smallest distance from outer surfaces. The parts 12, 13 also have this thickness, so that this is preferably the smallest distance from outer surfaces for the parts 12, 13 too.

[0062] As shown in Figure 3a, the first part 12 and the second part 13 can be brought into a separate state so that a prefabricated loop 14 of a webbing 6 can be inserted between them, as explained in detail below. Figure 3b shows that the first part 12 and the second part 13 can also be brought into a joined state in which the prefabricated loop 14 of the webbing 6 is enclosed in a first webbing opening 15 of the fitting part 10. In this state, the webbing 6 and thus the respective belt sub-element is connected to the fitting part 10. The prefabricated loops 14 were preferably produced by sewing, optionally also by providing a buckle.

[0063] In the assembled state of the parts 12, 13, the body 11 thus has at least the first webbing opening 15, which penetrates the body 11 and thereby penetrates the front side V and the back side R of the body 11. The first webbing opening 15 is arranged completely within the front side V or back side R of the body 11, as seen in a second direction extending from the front side V to the back side R, so that the webbing 6 can be enclosed in the body 11. In the separated state of the parts 12, 13, the first webbing opening 15 is released, i.e. the first webbing opening 15 is opened in a first direction which is normal to a second direction in which the first webbing opening 15 penetrates the body 11. To enable this, for example, the first part 12 has a first external groove 16. The second part 13 has an outer surface complementary to the formation of the webbing opening 15, e.g.a flat outer surface or a further first groove. Conversely, only the second part 13 could have a first outer groove 16 and the first part 12 a flat outer surface, or both parts 12, 13 could have a first groove 16.

[0064] As can be seen from Figure 3b, the first part 12 and the second part 13 thus touch each other in the assembled state at least at two points, and between these points the first part 12 and the second part 13 are spaced apart by the first outer groove 16, so that the belt strap 6 can be received therein.

[0065] The first external groove 16 can be designed to be long enough to accommodate both a webbing 6 of the first belt sub-element and a webbing 6 of the second belt sub-element. To prevent contact between the webbing 6 of the belt sub-elements, the first groove 16 and a second groove 17 can also be provided, as shown in Figures 3a and 3b, in order to provide the first webbing opening 15 and a second webbing opening 18 in the body when the parts 12, 13 are assembled, which do not merge into one another and are thus separate. This is also shown schematically in Figure 4. The first groove 16 and the second groove 17 can both be present only in the first part 12 or in the second part 13 (ie one of the parts 12, 13 has two grooves for the belt straps, as shown in Figure 4), the other part 12, 13 having a flat outer surface for both of the grooves to form the two belt strap openings 15, 18.Alternatively, the first part 12 could also have a first groove 16 and the second part 13 a flat outer surface for the first webbing opening 15, with the second part 12 having a second groove 16 and the first part 13 having a flat outer surface for the second webbing opening 18. Both parts 12, 13 could also have grooves for both of the webbing openings 15, 18.

[0066] Figure 5 shows such an embodiment, in which both parts 12, 13 have grooves 16, 17 for both of the webbing openings 15, 18. It is understood that only one of the webbing openings 15, 18 could be formed by two opposing grooves 16, 17.

[0067] In a further variant, which is shown in Figure 6, one of the parts 12, 13 could have a long first groove 16, and the other of the two parts 12, 13 could have a projection 19 which, when assembled, engages in the first groove 16 to thereby form a second webbing opening 18 which is separate from the first webbing opening 15.

[0068] In Figures 4 to 6, a non-openable, static bridge hole B is provided in the second part 13, in which the flexible bridge 7 can be anchored as described below. However, an openable bridge hole 20 could also be provided, which penetrates the body 11 when the parts 12, 13 are assembled, as shown in Figures 3a, 3b and Figures 7 and 8. For this purpose, the first and / or second part 12, 13 can have a third groove 21, wherein the respective other part 12, 13 has a complementary outer side in order to form a bridge hole 20 in the third groove 21 when the two parts 12, 13 are assembled, which bridge hole 20 is separate from the first webbing opening 15 and from the possibly present second webbing opening 18.As an alternative to the third groove 21, two projections could also be provided, analogous to Figure 6, in order to provide both the first webbing opening 15 and the second webbing opening 18 as well as the bridge hole 20 in the first groove 16. The bridge hole 20 is usually provided between the two webbing openings 15, 18 in order to achieve symmetry. In the area of ​​the bridge hole 20, the first groove 16 can also protrude further into the respective part in order to achieve a larger bridge hole 20, or the other part can provide its own third groove 21 just for the bridge hole 20 so that the bridge hole 20 can be made larger than the two webbing openings 15, 18. The background to this is that the two webbing openings 15, 18 are intended to accommodate flat belts, while the bridge hole 20 can also be designed to accommodate a rope.In general, therefore, it is preferred for all embodiments if the bridge hole 20 has different dimensions than the webbing openings 15, 18. For example, the bridge hole 20 could be larger than the webbing openings 15, 18 and / or the bridge hole 20 could have an approximately square shape, while the webbing openings 15, 18 have a rectangular, elongated shape. These variants are also advantageous for a non-openable, static bridge hole B.

[0069] The preferred embodiment, however, is that of Figure 7, in which the first part 12 has a first groove 16 and a second groove 17 spaced apart by a projection 19, and the second part 13 has a third groove 21. The third groove 21 is closed on one side by a projection 19 to form the bridge hole 20, and the first groove 16 and the second groove 17 are closed on one side by two outer surfaces of the second part 13 located laterally of the third groove 21 to form the first webbing opening 15 and the second webbing opening 18 therein, respectively.

[0070] In a further embodiment, shown in Figure 8, the body 11 could comprise a third part 24, so that the body 11 does not consist of two parts 12, 13 as in Figures 4-7, but of three parts 12, 13, 24. In this embodiment, the first webbing opening 15 is enclosed between the first part 12 and the second part 13 and the second webbing opening 18 is enclosed between the second part 13 and the third part 24. The openable bridge hole 20 is optional and can be enclosed between two or between three of the parts 12, 13 and 24. The parts 12 and 24 engage with each other in such a way that in the closed state they cannot be rotated relative to each other about the screws 22 in the transverse holes 23.

[0071] In the assembled state of the belt 1, a belt strap 6 of the first belt sub-element is located in the first belt strap opening 15, a belt strap 6 of the second belt sub-element is located in the second belt strap opening 18 and a flexible bridge 7 is anchored in the bridge hole B / 20.

[0072] In order to achieve a secure, semi-permanent connection when the two parts 12, 13 are assembled, screws 22, for example, can be used to connect the first part 12 to the second part 13. For this purpose, the body 11 of the fitting part 10 further has at least one transverse hole 23, which is arranged at a predetermined distance from a front side V and a rear side R of the body 11, wherein the transverse hole 23 penetrates both the first part 12 and the second part 13. The screw 22 can now be locked in the transverse hole 23, for example if an internal thread is provided in the transverse hole 23. The internal thread can, if necessary, only be located in the first and / or second part 12, 13. In one of the two parts 12, 13, the transverse hole 23 can also be designed as a blind hole and have the internal thread there, wherein the transverse hole 23 penetrates the other part completely.The transverse hole 23 can also completely penetrate both parts 12, 13, whereby the screw 22 can protrude from the body 11 on one or both sides if necessary and is fastened to the body by means of a nut. In a special case, the screw 22 can be completely received in the transverse hole 23, as shown in Figure 13a. This is also feasible for screws 22, as shown in Figures 3a, 3b, 9a, 9b, which do not penetrate the bridge hole 20. In a special case, the transverse hole 23 could be present in both parts 12, 13 as a blind hole, and the screw 22 could be inserted into it in the form of a pin.

[0073] In the embodiment of Figure 8, at least two transverse holes 23 can be used to connect all three parts 12, 13, 24.

[0074] In some embodiments, as shown in the example of Figures 3a and 3b, two screws 22 are used to ensure a secure connection between the two parts 12, 13. Alternatively, however, only one screw 22 or more than two screws 22 could be provided. As a rule, one of the two parts 12, 13 (in the embodiments shown here, the second part 13) is traversed by a static, non-openable further opening W, which does not border the edge of the respective part 12, 13. This (optional) further opening W is provided for connection to an anchor point, for which purpose a carabiner of a connecting means is usually hooked into the further opening W. If a static, non-openable bridge hole B is provided, this is usually provided in the same part 12, 13 as the further opening W.

[0075] If the fitting part 10 has such a further opening W for an anchor point, a pulling direction ZI can be defined on the fitting part 10, in which a pulling force acts on an anchor point connected to the further opening W. The user can hang in the belt 1 against the pulling force, whereby pulling forces opposite to the pulling force occur in pulling directions Z2, Z3 on the belt straps 6 in the belt strap openings 15, 18.

[0076] Typically, the body 11 is designed to be substantially symmetrical about the pulling direction ZI, which includes minor deviations that are caused, for example, by anatomical reasons. If appropriate, the symmetrical body 11 can be understood to be mirror-symmetrical about the pulling direction ZI, whereby the webbing openings 15, 18 can deviate from this symmetry. If no pulling direction ZI can be defined, any other mirror axis could also be used. If the two parts 12, 13 are connected by means of screws 22, these are preferably not parallel to the pulling direction ZI or mirror axis, but are arranged at an angle to it, as shown in Figures 3a, 3b. Preferably, the screws 22 are in particular perpendicular to the pulling direction ZI or mirror axis, as shown in the embodiment of Figures 9a and 9b.It is understood, however, that differently designed and, in particular, completely asymmetrical bodies 11 could also be used and that the arrangement of the screws 22 can also be arbitrary.

[0077] At this point, it should also be emphasized that the screws 22 or transverse holes 23 are not mandatory, since the first part 12 and the second part 13 can also be connected to one another using general connectors such as clamps or the like. As a rule, the fitting part 10 is therefore formed by the body 11 and the connectors for connecting the two parts 12, 13. Furthermore, the contact points of the first and second parts 12, 13 can, for example, also have opposing, interlocking surfaces to enable a connection or to further strengthen the connection between the two parts 12, 13. From Figures 9b, 10b it can be seen that the first part 12 has a shoulder A at two points, which engages in an opposing notch K in the second part 13. The shape of the opposing, interlocking surfaces can, however, be chosen arbitrarily.The opposing engaging surfaces may be arranged along the entire contact surface, or only over a part, as shown in Figures 9b, 10b.

[0078] To connect the flexible bridge 7 to the fitting part 10, the body is penetrated by the aforementioned bridge hole, which can be designed either as a static bridge hole B or as an openable bridge hole 20. A static bridge hole B penetrates the first and / or the second part 12, 13, as shown in Figures 4 to 6, i.e., it does not border on an outer side of the respective part 12, 13. As already explained above, the bridge hole 20 can, however, also be designed to be openable and be present between the two parts 12, 13 in order to penetrate the body 11 at this point, i.e., at least one of the two parts 12, 13 has the third outer groove 21.

[0079] In general, the bridge hole B, 20 can be divided by a web 25, i.e., it can be penetrated by a web 25 or bridged by a web. A detachable web can be used to bridge the bridge hole B, 20, as shown in EP 3 332 840 A. Novel, other embodiments for the web are described below. However, it should be noted that a web 25 is by no means necessary, as shown, for example, in Figures 3a, 3b, 11a, 11b. In the embodiments without a web, a stopper knot is usually provided at one end of the flexible bridge 7, which prevents the flexible bridge 7 from being pulled through the bridge hole 20. However, a web 25 can also be provided when using a bridge 7 with a stopper knot, in order to reduce the size of the bridge hole 20 and prevent the stopper knot from slipping through.

[0080] Figures 9a, 9b, 12a, 12b show embodiments in which the bridge hole 20 is penetrated by a web 25. In these embodiments, the bridge hole 20 is designed to be openable, i.e. the first and / or the second part 12, 13 have the aforementioned third groove 21, so that the bridge hole 20 penetrates the body 11 in the assembled state. The web 25 is designed such that it is open on one side at the third groove 21 when the two parts 12, 13 are separated. Preferably, the web 25 lies parallel to the aforementioned pulling direction ZI or axis of symmetry. In these cases, a loop formed at the end of the flexible bridge 7 can be hung on the web 25 when the two parts 12, 13 are separated. When the two parts 12, 13 are then brought into the assembled state, the loop of the flexible bridge 7 is enclosed between the two parts 12, 13 in the body 11.The flexible bridge 7 cannot therefore be removed from the fitting part 10 when the two parts 12, 13 are in the assembled state. To remove the flexible bridge 7 or to replace it with another flexible bridge, the two parts 12, 13 are separated, which can be done, for example, by loosening the aforementioned screws 22. Such a web 25 can also be used, for example, in the embodiments of Figures 3a, 3b. The web 25 can also have an extension 26 that can engage in a recess 27 of the other part 12, 13 in order to increase the stability of the body 11 when the two parts 12, 13 are assembled. The web 25 could also have a smaller diameter than the thickness of the body 11 and thus be inserted into the recess 27 - assuming the stability of the resulting fitting part required for use in personal fall protection.In a further embodiment, the web 25 could, for example, be tubular, and instead of a recess 27, the other part 12, 13 has a pin that fits into the tubular web 25. The pin can then be pushed into the tube when the two parts 12, 13 are joined together.

[0081] In a further embodiment, which is shown in Figures 10a, 10b, 13a, 13b, the web 25 can also be formed by the aforementioned screw 22, which connects the two parts 12, 13 to one another. The transverse hole 23 here penetrates both parts 12, 13 on both sides of the bridge hole 21, so that a single screw 22 connects the parts 12, 13 to one another at two different points. The screw 22 can thus penetrate the bridge hole 20. This, in turn, allows one loop of the flexible bridge 7 to be pushed onto the screw 22. This variant, in which the screw 22 penetrates the bridge hole, can be used with an openable bridge hole 20, as shown in Figures 10a, 10b, or with a static bridge hole B, as shown in Figures 13a, 13b.

[0082] Figures 11a-11b show three variants for producing the belt 1 with three different fitting parts 10. All three variants have in common that at least two belt sub-elements with belt straps 6 are initially provided, wherein the ends of the belt straps 6 are preferably pre-formed into loops. Furthermore, the fitting part 10 is provided, wherein the parts 12, 13 are in a separated state. In the variant of Figures 11a, 11b, a fitting part 10 is provided in which the first belt strap opening 15 and the second belt strap opening 18 are designed to be openable. The bridge hole B, on the other hand, is provided as an opening that permanently penetrates the second part 13 and cannot be opened by separating the parts 12, 13. To produce the belt 1, the loop 14 of a belt strap 6 is inserted into the first groove 16, which will later form the first belt strap opening 15.The loop 14 of the other webbing 6 is inserted into the second groove 16, which will later form the second webbing opening 18. The two parts 12, 13 are then assembled and, if necessary, connected using the screws 22. Before or after this—and generally independently of the aforementioned steps—the flexible bridge 7 can be guided through the bridge hole 20 and knotted, or provided with a prefabricated knot and guided through the bridge hole 20 with the unknotted end. It is understood that this embodiment could also be implemented with an openable bridge hole 20. The fitting part 10 could then be designed as in Figures 3a, 3b, with an optional web 25 extending through the bridge hole 20, which in this case would serve to reduce the size of the bridge hole 20, so that the stopper knot is better secured.

[0083] In the variant of Figures 12a, 12b, a fitting part 10 is provided in which the first webbing opening 15, the second webbing opening 18, and the bridge hole 20 are designed to be openable. In the bridge hole 20, a permanent web 25 is formed at the third groove 21, which is open on one side. This essentially corresponds to the embodiment of Figures 9a, 9b. To produce the belt 1, the loop 14 of one webbing 6 is inserted into the first groove 16, which will later form the first webbing opening 15. The loop 14 of the other webbing 6 is inserted into the second groove 16, which will later form the second webbing opening 18. Furthermore, a flexible bridge 7 is provided, one end of which is pre-formed into a loop. The loop of the flexible bridge 7 is pushed onto the web 25. The two parts 12, 13 are then brought into the assembled state and, if necessary, connected by means of the screws 22.

[0084] In the variant of Figures 13a, 13b, a fitting part 10 is provided in which the first webbing opening 15 and the second webbing opening 18 are designed to be openable. The bridge hole B is static, but could also be designed to be openable as in Figures 10a, 10b. There is no permanent web in the bridge hole B; instead, this is formed by a screw 22 that can be inserted into the body 11. To produce the belt 1, the loop 14 of one webbing 6 is inserted into the first groove 16, which will later form the first webbing opening 15. The loop 14 of the other webbing 6 is inserted into the second groove 16, which will later form the second webbing opening 18. The two parts 12, 13 are then brought into the assembled state. The screw 22 is then guided through a first section of the transverse hole 23 until it protrudes into the bridge hole B.Thereafter, a flexible bridge 7 is provided, one end of which is pre-formed into a loop, and the loop is inserted into the bridge hole B. The screw 22 is then further pushed through the loop and the second section of the transverse hole 23 and screwed into an internal thread in this second section or with a nut located outside the fitting part.

[0085] In Figures 11a and 11b, the flexible bridge 7 is depicted as a rope bridge. This is preferred for creating a knot 9. In Figures 12a-13b, the flexible bridge 7 is depicted as a webbing strap whose end is sewn into a loop. However, this could equally well be implemented if the flexible bridge 7 is formed by one or more ropes, which typically corresponds to the preferred embodiment.

[0086] In all of the aforementioned embodiments, it is preferred that the ends of the straps 6 be (pre-)sewn into loops. Alternatively, however, buckles or the like could also be used to form the ends of the straps 6 into loops. The fittings 10 according to the invention further enable advantageous assembly and maintenance of the belt 1.

[0087] In all the embodiments described above, the transverse hole 23 is provided between the front side V and the rear side R and is spaced apart from them, thereby creating a semi-permanent connection to connect the two parts 12, 13 in a rotationally fixed manner and to achieve a rigid body 11. Alternatively, the transverse hole 23 could also extend through the front side V and the rear side R of the body 11. Possible embodiments for this are shown in Figures 14a and 14b.

[0088] In Figure 14a, the first part 12 has a groove and the second part 13 has a projection. Specifically, the transverse hole 23 extends through the outer sides of the groove and through the projection, so that when the two parts 12, 13 are assembled, a screw can be passed through the transverse hole 23 to semi-permanently connect the two parts. Figure 14b shows an embodiment in which both the first part 12 and the second part 13 each have a projection, the projections being complementary to each other, so that the two parts 12, 13 can be joined together to form the body 11. The transverse hole extends through both projections.

[0089] Typically, in the embodiments of Figures 14a and 14b, two transverse holes 23 are provided, each passing through both parts 12, 13, whereby the two parts 12, 13 can be connected by means of two screws 22.

Claims

Claims:

1. A harness (1) for personal fall protection, comprising a fitting part (10) and at least a first and a second body-part-enclosing belt sub-element, wherein the fitting part (10) comprises a body (11) which is designed for connection to the first belt sub-element, to the second belt sub-element and to a flexible bridge (7), wherein the body (11) is penetrated by a first webbing opening (15) and a bridge hole (20, B), wherein the body (11) of the fitting part (10) comprises a first part (12) and a second part (13), which can be brought into a joined state and into a separated state, wherein the first part (12) and / or the second part (13) comprises at least one first external groove (16) for the first belt sub-element, wherein in the joined state of the two parts (12, 13), the first groove (16) is formed by the respective other part (12, 13) to the body (11) passing through the first belt opening (15),in order to semi-permanently connect a first belt strap (6) of the first body-part-enclosing belt sub-element to the fitting part (10), characterized in that the body (11) of the fitting part (10) further comprises at least one transverse hole (23) which passes through both the first part (12) and the second part (13), wherein the fitting part (10) further comprises a screw (22), and wherein the screw (22) can be guided into the transverse hole (23) and locked therein in order to connect the first part (12) to the second part (13) in the assembled state.

2. Belt (1) according to claim 1, wherein the first part (12) and / or the second part (13) comprises at least one second external groove (17) for the second belt sub-element, wherein in the assembled state of the two parts (12, 13) the second groove (17) is completed by the respective other part (12, 13) to form a second belt strap opening (18) passing through the body (11) in order to connect a second belt strap (6) of the second belt sub-element encompassing the body part to the fitting part (10).

3. Belt (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first part (12) and / or the second part (13) comprises at least one third external groove (21) for the flexible bridge (7), wherein in the assembled state of the two parts (12, 13) the third groove (21) extends through the respective other part (12, 13) to a bridge hole (20) passing through the body (11). is completed in order to connect the flexible bridge (7) to the fitting part (10).

4. Belt (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the transverse hole (23) is arranged at a predetermined distance from a front side (V) and a rear side (R) of the body.

5. Belt (1) according to claim 4, wherein the body (11) is formed substantially symmetrically about a pulling direction (ZI) and the transverse hole (23) is arranged at an angle to the pulling direction (ZI).

6. Belt (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the transverse hole (23) passes through a front side (V) and a rear side (R) of the body.

7. Belt (1) according to one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a web (25) dividing the bridge hole (20, B).

8. Belt (1) according to claim 7, wherein the body (11) is formed substantially symmetrically about a pulling direction (ZI) and the web (25) runs parallel to the pulling direction (ZI).

9. Belt (1) according to claim 7, wherein the body (11) is formed substantially symmetrically about a pulling direction (ZI) and the web (25) extends normal to the pulling direction (ZI).

10. Belt (1) according to one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the web (25) is formed in one piece on the first part (12) or on the second part (13), and wherein the part (12, 13) opposite the web (25) preferably comprises a recess (27) for receiving the web (25) or for receiving an extension (26) of the web (25) in the assembled state of the parts (12, 13), or wherein the web is preferably tubular and the part (12, 13) opposite the web (25) comprises a pin for engagement in the web (25).

11. Belt (1) according to claim 4 in conjunction with one of claims 7 to 9 or according to claim 5 in conjunction with claim 6 or 8, wherein the web (25) is formed by the screw (22).

12. Belt (1) according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the first part (12) and the second part (13) have interlocking guide surfaces at those points which touch when the two parts (12, 13) are assembled.

13. Belt (1) according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the body (11) has a thickness, measured from a front side (V) to a back side (R), of 6 mm to 14 mm, preferably of 8 mm to 10 mm.

14. Belt (1) according to one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the first belt sub-element is a hip belt (2) and the second belt sub-element is a leg loop (3), wherein the belt (1) preferably comprises a further leg loop (3) and a further fitting part which connects the hip belt (2) to the further leg loop (3), wherein the further fitting part is particularly preferably designed in the same way as the first-mentioned fitting part.

15. A method for producing a belt (1) according to one of claims 1 to 14, - Providing the two parts (12, 13) in a separated state, - Providing the first and the second belt sub-element, wherein the ends of the belt straps (6) of the two belt sub-elements are pre-formed into loops (14), preferably sewn into loops, Pushing the loop (14) of the webbing (6) of the first belt sub-element onto the first groove (16), pushing the loop (14) of the webbing (6) of the second belt sub-element onto the first groove (16) or onto the second groove (17), bringing the two parts (12, 13) into the assembled state, wherein the loop (14) of the webbing (6) of the first belt sub-element is located in the first webbing opening (15) and the loop (14) of the webbing (6) of the second belt sub-element is located in the first webbing opening (15) or in the second webbing opening (18).

16. A method according to claim 14 for producing a belt (1) according to any one of claims 7 to 10, comprising the steps carried out before bringing the two parts (12, 13) into the assembled state: Providing a flexible bridge (7) with one end preformed into a loop, Pushing the loop of the flexible bridge (7) onto the web (25) or sliding the web (25) through the loop of the flexible bridge (7).

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