Anchor system and method for indicating the application of an unintended force to an anchor assembly

Abstract

The application is directed to an anchor assembly, particularly for a fall protection system, the anchor assembly comprising at least one fixation means for connection to at least one substructure, at least one energy absorber having a first end at least indirectly connectable to the substructure and / or the fixation means and a second end located opposite the first end comprising at least one first connecting element, wherein the energy absorber extends into a first direction, and at least one housing at least partly surrounding the energy absorber, wherein the housing comprises and / or is at least indirectly connected to at least one indicator element extending into a direction having at least one direction component being perpendicular to the first direction, wherein the indicator element is configured to permanently change at least one of its characteristics when the energy absorber and / or housing is deflected from the first direction more than a predefined first angle and / or when a force above a first threshold is acting on the energy absorber and / or the housing, as well as a method for indicating the application of unintended forces to an anchor assembly.

Description

[0001] ANCHOR SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INDICATING THE APPLICATION OF AN UNINTENDED FORCE TO AN ANCHOR ASSEMBLY

[0002] SPECIFICATION

[0003] The present disclosure relates to an anchor assembly and a method for indicating the application of unintended forces to an anchor assembly, in particular to an anchor assembly and a method used in an anchor assembly for use in fall protection applications.

[0004] In certain situations, it is desired for an operative to work at height, for example, on the roof surface of a building. An example of an anchor fitted to a building is disclosed in, for example, DEI 0132297 which details a roof anchor for attachment to a standing seam roof of a building having struts that articulate about a threaded pin which is secured by a bolt.

[0005] The arrangement can be articulated to different configurations to fit seam spacings of different distances. A similar device is disclosed in DE202007013157.

[0006] Furthermore from WO2022 / 167788 Al a generic anchor assembly is known. The anchor assembly can in particular be installed on a roof structure to prevent the roof structure in the moment of a user’s fall from too high loads and simultaneously connects the users securely to the roof. For this purpose a horizontal lifeline can be connected to an energy absorber of the anchor system. The energy absorber has a defined pre-tension to ensure that in a fall event, i.e. when forces above a first threshold are introduced into the anchor system, the user is effectively protected from unintended high forces and stresses that might cause injuries up to death in a fall event. In particular the energy absorber ensures that the fall is absorbed with moderate forces acting on the falling user.

[0007] Finally an energyabsorber is for example disclosed in GB 2 362 448 A. To ensure the ability of the energy absorber to effectively absorb a fall of a user it is important that the energy absorber has not been preloaded before the fall event, in particular that the energy absorber has not been deflected and / or that the energy absorber has not been subjected to a force greater than the first threshold before the fall event. Sometimes an anchor system, in particular its energy absorber, is accidentally loaded with a load.

[0008] In horizontal lifeline systems such a load can be caused by for example unusual wind loads, snow loads or also due to misuse by users. Even "tripping" over the rope and / or lifeline can cause such a load.

[0009] In known anchor systems the problem exists that in case the force is below the first threshold such a load, although the energy absorbing system is not triggered and a fall arrest is not needed, tilts the anchor assembly, in particular the energy absorber and / or a housing of the anchor assembly, what results in an angle change of the anchor assembly. The lifeline system in which the anchor assembly is used has a defined pre-tension. Thus an unintended tilting or tip-over of the anchor assembly leads to a temporary failed horizontal lifeline system, in particular instabilities for the user as for example the tension of the horizontal lifeline might be reduced.

[0010] In case the force is above the first threshold in anchor systems known in the prior art, especially anchor system being on the market, it is not possible, at least difficult, to recognize whether the system has been unintentionally preloaded that might cause an insufficient energy absorption in a fall event.

[0011] It is thus the object of the claimed subject matter to further develop the known anchor systems to overcome the before described disadvantages, in particular to provide an improved anchor assembly being able to withstand unintended environmental influences and ensuring that an anchor system having unintentionally being preloaded can be easily identified.

[0012] According to a first aspect this problem is solved by an anchor assembly, particularly for a fall protection system, the anchor assembly comprising at least one fixation means for connection to at least one substructure, at least one energy absorber having a first end at least indirectly connectable to the substructure and / or the fixation means and a second end located opposite the first end comprising at least one first connecting element, wherein the energy absorber extends into a first direction, and at least one housing at least partly surrounding the energy absorber, characterized in that the housing comprises and / or is at least indirectly connected to at least one indicator element extending into a direction having at least one direction component being perpendicular to the first direction, wherein the indicator element is configured to permanently change at least one of its characteristics when the energy absorber and / or housing is deflected from the first direction more than a predefined first angle and / or when a force above a first threshold is acting on the energy absorber and / or the housing.

[0013] For the anchor assembly it is proposed that the characteristics of the indicator element is an inherent characteristic of the indicator element and / or comprise a form, a color an orientation of the indicator element, optionally relative to at least one remaining part, preferably the complete remaining part, of the housing, and / or an integrity of the indicator element and / or the permanent change of the characteristic of the indicator element comprises a color change, a deformation, optionally relative to at least one remaining part, preferably the complete remaining part, of the housing, a rupture, a breaking and / or a tearing of the indicator element.

[0014] Furthermore an anchor assembly can be characterized in that the indicator element is at least partly located within the housing and / or at least partly located outside the housing and / or the indicator element comprises at least one tab element extending outwardly from the housing, especially into a second direction away from the energy absorber, wherein preferably the tab element is configured to withstand forces corresponding to forces below the first threshold acting on the housing and / or the energy absorber and / or deflections of the housing below the first angle, in particular without changing the characteristic of the indicator element, and / or the indicator element comprises at least one energy dissipation element, wherein the force dissipation element is configured to dissipate forces acting on the housing, the first connection element and / or the energy absorber and being below the first threshold into the fixation means and / or the substructure.

[0015] It is also proposed that the fixation means comprises at least one second connection element for connecting the energy absorber to the fixation means and / or at least one third connection element to connect the housing to the fixation means, wherein optionally the second connection element and the third connection element are at least partly formed in one piece. For the before described embodiment it is preferred that the housing comprises at least one fourth connection element configured to be connected to the third connection element and / or at least partly formed in one piece with the third connection element, wherein optionally the fourth connection element comprises at least partly the force dissipation element.

[0016] The anchor assembly according to the before described embodiment can be characterized in that the force dissipation element and / or the strut element is optionally configured to be permanently deformed and / or to break, optionally relative to at least one remaining part, preferably the complete remaining part, of the housing, in case a force applied to the energy absorber and / or the housing exceeds the first threshold.

[0017] It is furthermore proposed that the anchor assembly comprises a plurality of indicator elements, wherein the indicator elements are preferably evenly distributed around the perimeter of the housing and / or the energy absorber, wherein especially two neighboring indicator elements enclose an angle of 180 degrees, 120 degrees, 90 degrees, 45 degrees, 30 degrees, and / or any angle relative to a center axis of the housing and / or the energy absorber.

[0018] In the before described embodiments it is furthermore preferred that the fourth connection element comprises a plurality of force dissipation elements and / or struts, preferably evenly distributed around a center element, in particular a center element of the fourth connection element, and / or around the perimeter of the housing, wherein especially two neighboring force dissipation elements and / or struts enclose an angle of 180 degrees, 120 degrees, 90 degrees, 45 degrees, 30 degrees and / or any angle.

[0019] For the before described embodiment it is preferred that the center element is at least indirectly connectable to the third connection element.

[0020] Further advantageous embodiments of an anchor assembly can be characterized in that the second connection element comprises at least one opening for a fifth connection element of the energy absorber and / or a at least one sixth connection element, preferably the fourth connection element, of the housing, wherein the second connection element, the fifth connection element and / or the sixth connection element preferably comprise(s) at least one bolt, at least one screw, at least one threaded section, and / or at lest one nut. In the before described embodiment it is preferred that the fourth connection element, in particular the center element, is configured to receive at least partly the third connection element and / or the fifth connection element and / or is configured to allow the fifth connection element to reach through the fourth connection element, in particular the center element.

[0021] An anchor assembly according to the claimed subject matter can be characterized in that the fixation means comprises at least one base plate, at least one connector for connecting to a post, to the substructure, to a load bearing structure, to a bottom fix structure and / or to a top fix structure and / or at least one seventh connecting element to connect the fixation means to the substructure.

[0022] For the before described embodiment it is preferred that the seventh connection element comprises at least one opening and / or at least one through hole for at least one screw, at least one bolt, and / or at least one threaded section.

[0023] Furthermore it is proposed that the third connection element comprises at least one centering element, in particular at least partly comprising at least one disk, at least one washer, and / or at least one sleeve, wherein preferably the fourth connection element, in particular the center element, at least partly rests on the centering element and / or the center element and the centering element are at least partly formed in one piece, the fifth connection element at least partly reaches through the centering element and / or the centering element is concentrically aligned with the seventh connection element.

[0024] In the anchor assembly according to the claimed subject matter optionally the substructure comprises at least partly and / or is formed by at least one support structure, at least one roof, at least one rail system, preferably at least partly comprised by and / or connected to the support structure, at least one load bearing structure, at least one indoor inventory and / or at least one high bay storage.

[0025] An anchor assembly can be characterized in that the energy absorber comprises, optionally located relative to the first direction on a side of the indicator element(s), in particular the strut(s) facing away from the fixation means or on a side of the indicator element(s), in particular the strut(s), facing the fixation means, at least partly at least one elastic element, at least one spring, at least one coil spring, at least one plastic material, and / or at least one elastomer material.

[0026] Further advantageous embodiments can be characterized in that wherein the first direction is perpendicular to a main extension plane of the substructure and / or the fixation means, and / or the first direction is parallel to a normal vector of a main extension plane of the substructure and / or the fixation means.

[0027] In particular is it preferred that the energy absorber is at least indirectly and / or at least temporarily connected and / or connectable to the housing, the first connecting element and / or the second end of the energy absorber extends out of the housing, is connected to the housing and / or forms at least a part of the housing.

[0028] For the anchor system it is furthermore proposed that the indicator element extends at least partly parallel to a main extension plane of the substructure and / or the fixation means and / or the indicator element comprises at least one predetermined breaking point, at least one weakening element, at least one hinge, and / or at least one film hinge.

[0029] It is also proposed for the anchor assembly that the first connection element is connectable, directly or indirectly, to at least one lifeline, at least one horizontal lifeline, at least one lanyard, at least on personal fall limiter, and / or at least one a safety harness worn by a user.

[0030] Finally an anchor assembly can be characterized in that the assembly comprises at least one sensing element, in particular configured to sense at least the characteristic of the indicator element, an amount of tilting of the energy absorber and / or the housing from the first direction, and / or the force acting on the energy absorber and / or the housing, wherein optionally at least one measurement of the sensing element is further processed, optionally processed into at least one alarm, in particular when the first angle and / or the first threshold is exceeded, stored within at least on storing device, transmitted, in particular wirelessly, to at least one receiving element, and / or output by at least one audio and / or visual output device, for example as an audible alarm, and / or a flashing light. According to a second aspect the problem is solved by a method for indicating the application of unintended forces to an anchor assembly, in particular an anchor assembly according to one of the preceding claims, the anchor assembly comprising at least one fixation means for connection to at least one substructure, at least one energy absorber having a first end at least indirectly connectable to the fixation means and a second end located opposite the first end comprising at least one first connecting element, wherein the energy absorber extends into a first direction, and at least one housing at least partly surrounding the energy absorber, characterized in that the housing comprises and / or is connected to at least one indicator element extending into a direction having at least one direction component being perpendicular to the first direction, wherein the indicator element permanently changes at least one of its, in particular inherent, characteristics when the energy absorber and / or housing is deflected from the first direction more than a predefined first angle and / or when a force above a first threshold is acting on the energy absorber and / or the housing.

[0031] For the method it is proposed that wherein, when a force above the first threshold is acting of the housing and / or the energy absorber, at least one energy dissipation element, in particular a strut element, of the indicator element and / or a tab element, in particular extending from the housing into a direction opposite the energy absorber breaks and / or is permanently deformed.

[0032] The claimed subject matter is thus based on the astonishing perception that known anchor systems can be further developed to overcome the disadvantages of known systems, by provide an improved anchor assembly being able to withstand unintended environmental influences and ensuring that an anchor system having unintentionally being preloaded can be easily identified by using indicator elements that on the one hand can act as energy dissipating elements to provide a defined tip-over force, to withstand environmental influences and on the other hand can act as indicators which show that an unintended force has been applied.

[0033] The force dissipation function ensures that the anchor assembly, in particular its housing and / or energy absorber, is prevented from tilting over by low forces, i.e. forces being below a first threshold, for example 2, 4, 6 kN. The indicator function ensures that it is easy to recognize that the anchor assembly, at least the housing and / or the energy absorber needs to be replaced due to an unwanted preload. In particular this preload can be recognized even after the load has been applied and even if the anchor assembly, in particular the housing has straightened up automatically again after the load application or has been straightened up manually.

[0034] As, in particular inherent, characteristics that allow to recognize the application of a force that is above the first threshold current characteristics can be used. For example, in case the characteristic of the form is changed it becomes possible to recognize the application of the force based on a permanent deformation, optionally relative to the remining housing, of the indicator element. Depending on the material, such a deformation might also lead to a color change of the indicator element or might also change the integrity of the indicator element, for example a breakage of the indicator element. For example the indicator element can break, bend or change the physically properties in any way.

[0035] The use of tab elements that are extending away from the housing as indicator elements allows the recognition of the application of a force being above the first threshold without a detailed inspection of the anchor assembly, in particular of the housing and / or the energy absorber from outside of the anchor assembly.

[0036] Such tab elements can also fulfill the function of a load dissipation element. For example, the tab element can be configured to withstand forces that are equivalent to forces on the anchor assembly below the first threshold without a deformation or breakage and guiding the force into the fixation means and / or the substructure. Only in case the force onto the tab element exceeds a force acting on the anchor assembly being above the first threshold, the characteristic of the tab is changed allowing the recognition of the first preload. In this way an uncomplicate and easy design can be realized ensuring that both the anchor assembly withstands forces below the first threshold without a tilting and preloads of the anchor assembly above the first threshold are recognizable.

[0037] The use of struts as indicator elements acting especially as load dissipation elements, allows to integrate the indicator elements into the housing in such a way that it is protected from the outside environment. Furthermore, it allows to provide a defined load dissipation and due to the lower leverage effect in comparison to tabs being located outside the housing, the amount of material necessary to realize the load dissipation element can be reduced. The use of a priority of indicator elements, in particular distributed over a circumference of the housing / anchor assembly allows to indicate a preload of the anchor assembly in any direction. Furthermore, it becomes possible to dissipate forces acting on the anchor assembly in any direction.

[0038] When the fourth connection element comprises indicator elements, in particular force dissipation elements, it becomes possible that the housing defines itself a tip over protection for forces below the first threshold.

[0039] By using a plurality of force dissipation elements, in particular in form of struts, evenly distributed around a center element of the fourth connection element and / or around the perimeter of the housing, for example a 3 -leg-star design, i.e. a design in which the indicator elements enclose an angle of 120 relative to each other, in the inner section of the housing can be provided. A specific force resistance is defined by the 3-leg-star design and a predetermined breaking point that is in all directions the same. Due to the placements and design of the 3-leg-star the same tip-over force resistance is ensured in all directions. In case the force exceeds the first threshold at least one of the force dissipating elements is permanently deformed or breaks, optionally relative to the remining housing, allowing a tilting of the housing and / or the energy absorber.

[0040] In alternative embodiments the indicator elements and / or the force dissipation elements can also be distributed unevenly around the center element, the perimeter of the housing and / or the energy absorber. For example this might be advantageous in case a tilting of the energy absorber into a first radial direction is more likely than into another radial direction and / or the force acting on the energy absorber acts into the first radial direction more likely than into another radial direction. Then for example the density of indicator elements and / or force dissipation elements can be increased in the first radial direction and / or an area around the first radial direction.

[0041] The use of the different connection elements in particular allows a modular configuration of the anchor assembly. In particular the anchor assembly can be connected to different substructures like a roof but also a rail system or other supporting structures attached to any supporting structure. The use of an energy absorber comprising an elastic element or elastic member ensures that an effective fall protection can be provided on the one hand and on the other hand forces acting on the anchor assembly can also be dissipated by the energy absorber and not only by the indicator elements / load dissipation elements.

[0042] That the first connection element extends out of the housing allows that in case a force is acting on the first connection element that the energy absorber gets into contact with the housing. By the further movement the forces are guided via the housing to the indicator element, in particular acting as load dissipating elements.

[0043] That the indicator elements comprise at least one pre-determined breaking point, for example in form of a weakening element or at least one hinge, ensures that a, in particular inherent, characteristic of the indicator element is changed at a pre-determined location. This ensures that the preload that has been above the first threshold can be easily recognized from outside when viewing onto the anchor assembly.

[0044] Further features and advantages of the claimed subject-matter will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments. These embodiments are explained with the help of the attached figures in which

[0045] Figure 1 is a schematic drawing of a fall-protection system including a horizontal lifeline;

[0046] Figure 2 is a view onto an anchor assembly according to the claimed subject-matter;

[0047] Figure 3 is a perspective view onto a housing of an anchor assembly according to the claimed subject-matter;

[0048] Figure 4 is a perspective view onto an indicator element of an anchor assembly according to the claimed subject-matter;

[0049] Figure 5 is a further perspective view onto the anchor assembly of Figure 2 with a joint connected to the first connection element; Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the anchor assembly from direction A in Figure 5;

[0050] Figure 7 is a cross sectional view of the anchor assembly from direction B in Figures 5 and 6 , respectively;

[0051] Figure 8 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a housing of an anchor assembly;

[0052] Figure 9 is a cross sectional view onto the housing of Figure 8 connected to an anchor assembly; and

[0053] Figure 10 is a further cross sectional of the housing of Figure 8 and the anchor assembly of Figure 9 from a different direction.

[0054] Figure 1 is a diagram depicting a fall protection system 100 in form of a lifeline securing a person 102 performing construction operations at a top of a structure. The system 100 includes an elongate support member in form of a horizontal lifeline 104.

[0055] The horizontal lifeline 104 is positioned above a substructure 106. The person or user 102 is connected to the horizontal lifeline 104 via a lanyard 108 and a load transfer device 110, respectively. The lanyard 108 is in particular connected to a personal protective equipment (PPE), for example a harness 112.

[0056] The horizonal lifeline 104 is connected or attached to the substructure 106 via anchor assemblies 114. As will be explained later, the anchor assembly 114 comprises a housing 116 that surrounds an energy absorber (not shown in Figure 1). The energy absorber has a first end 118 at least indirectly connected to the structure 106. Furthermore, the energy absorber has a second end 120 at least indirectly connected to a first connection element 122. The first connection element 122 is at least indirectly connected to the horizontal lifeline 104.

[0057] In case of a fall of the user 102 the forces acting during the fall are transferred via the harness 112, the lanyard 108, the load transfer device 110 onto the horizontal lifeline 104. To avoid an overstress of the substructure 106, the anchor assembly is configured to absorb forces above a first threshold, for example 6kN. For this purpose, the anchor assembly 114 is configured to tip during the energy absorption.

[0058] In Figure 2, a perspective view onto an anchor assembly 114 according to the claimed subject-matter is shown. As show in Figure 2 the anchor assembly 114 comprises a fixation means in form of a base plate 124. The base plate 124 allows a connection of the anchor assembly 114 to the substructure 106.

[0059] In Fig. 2 only the second end 120 of the energy absorber 126 is shown. At the second end 120 the first connection element 122 is located whereas an opposite first end of the energy absorber 126 is connected to the base plate 124. The base plate 124 can be connected to the substructure, for example the substructure 160 shown in figure 1 via a seventh connection element for example formed by a hole through which a screw can reach into the substructure. The energy absorber 126 is surrounded by the housing 116. Both, the housing 116 as well as the energy absorber 126 are extending into a first direction D.

[0060] In the shown embodiments the first direction D is parallel to a normal vector of the main plane of the base plate 124. As shown in Fig. 2 the housing 116 comprises first indicator elements in form of tabs 128. The tabs are mainly extending in a direction perpendicular to the first direction D and rest on the surface of the base plate 124.

[0061] As shown in Fig. 3 the housing 116 comprises beside the first indicator elements in form of tabs 128 second indicator elements in form of force dissipation elements realized in form of struts 130.

[0062] The energy absorber 126 is connected to the base plate via a not shown second connection element for example a screw that is threated into the base plate 124. A housing is connected to the base plate 124 via a third connection element, for example a screw that is formed in one piece with the second connection element.

[0063] The housing 116 in turn comprises a fourth connection element 132 that comprises beside the struts 130 a center element 134 in particular comprising an opening 135 for the second or third connection element. In the shown embodiments the three force dissipation elements in form of the struts 130 are evenly distributed around the center element 134 and the circumference of the housing 116.

[0064] In case an unintended force is acting on the anchor assembly 114 by the first and / or second indicator elements 128, 130 it is ensured that a tilting of the anchor assembly 114 is not taking place in case the force acting on the anchor assembly 114 is below a fist threshold. Whereas in case the force is above the first threshold a service person can recognize that such a force has acted on the anchor assembly 114 and / or that a tilting of the housing 116 exceeding a first angle has taken place, by a change of the, in particular inherent, characteristic of the indicator elements 128, 130.

[0065] For example, in case a strong wind is acting on the housing 116 and in case the force is below the first threshold the housing will withstand these forces, i.e. will not tilt or at least less than the first angle due to the second indicator elements in form of the form of the force dissipation elements realized in form of the struts 130.

[0066] The struts 130 furthermore ensure that no forces are acting on the first indicator elements in form of the tabs 128. This also applies in case a force is acting on the second end 120 of the energy absorber 126. The housing 116 acts as a counter bearing for the energy absorber 126. This means that forces acting on the energy absorber 126 are at least partly guided to the housing 116.

[0067] For example, a user 102 may pull the lanyard 112 or might unintentionally contact the horizontal lifeline 104 such that a force supplied to the horizontal lifeline 104. In case the forces are below the first threshold it is ensured that the housing 116 withstands these forces so that a tension of the horizontal lifeline 104 remains constant.

[0068] In case a force being higher than the first threshold will act on the anchor assembly 114 it is furthermore ensured that a service person can recognize that such an unwanted preload has acted on the anchor assembly and / or that the energy absorber 126 and / or the housing 116 have been tilted by more than the first angle.

[0069] Such a preload and / or tilting can negatively influence the characteristic of the energy absorber 126 in a fall event leading to unintended high forces for a user in the fall event. Such a preload can be detected irrespective of the position of the anchor assembly 114, in particular the housing 116 and the energy absorber 126. For example it is possible that the energy absorber 126 and the housing 116 are tilted due to the high force but then due the elastic characteristics of the energy absorber will go back into the initial position, in particular such that the housing 116 and / or the energy absorber 126 are extending into the direction D.

[0070] When a force above the first threshold is acting on the anchor assembly the strut 130 will change the, in particular inherent, characteristic such that they will change their integrity, in other words will permanently deform or will break. This will allow a tilting of the anchor assembly 114, in particular the housing 116 and / or the energy absorber 126 with the first connection element 122 also the position shown in Fig. 2, in particular out of the direction D. By the tilting of the housing 116 and / or the energy absorber 126 respective forces will act on the first indicator elements in form of the tabs 128.

[0071] As shown in Fig. 4 tabs 128 in particular comprise a predetermined breaking point in form of a hinge 136. When a tilting of the housing 116 is taking place the tab 128 breaks at the hinge 136 leading to a permanent deformation of the tab, in particular relative to the remining housing, or a disconnection of the tab 128 from the remaining part of the housing 116.

[0072] A service person inspecting the anchor assembly 114 will see that the tab 128 is disconnected from the housing 116 or is missing totally or has been permanently deformed such that it is not any more contacting the base plate 124. Thus, the service person can detect that an unintended force has acted on the anchor assembly 114 irrespective of the position of the housing 116 and / or the energy absorber 126 and can take adequate measures in particular replace at least parts of the anchor assembly 114 like the energy absorber 126 and / or the housing 116.

[0073] With the help of the Figures 5 to 7 further details of the anchor assembly 114 are described.

[0074] In Figure 5 the anchor assembly is shown in a further perspective view. Furthermore in the in Figure 5 shown configuration a joint 138 has been connected to the first connection element 122. The joint 138 allows a connection of a support for the lifeline 104 such that the support can be moved in different directions and can be adjusted to different orientations. Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 show cross-sectional views of the anchor assembly 114 in the directions A and B, respectively, of Figure 5. In particular details of the internal structure of the energy absorber 126 are depicted. The energy absorber 126 has a similar structure as the one disclosed in GB 2 362 448 A.

[0075] The first connection element 122 of the energy absorber 126 comprises in the shown embodiment a threaded opening 140. The opening allows for example the connection of the joint 138 not shown in Figures 5 and 6 for the simplification of presentation.

[0076] The first connection element 122 is in working relationship with an elastic element in form of a coil spring 142. In particular the first connection element 122 is connected to an extension element 158. The extension element 158 comprises two parallel plates 160 that are connected via distance holders 162. The coil spring 142 extends partly through a space 164 between the plates. .

[0077] A first end of the coil spring 142 forms a fifth connection element 144. In particular the fifth connection element 144 is formed by a threaded section 146 comprised by the first end of the coil spring 142. The fifth connection element 144 in particular reaches through a second connection element formed by a through hole 148 formed in the base plate 124. Onto the fifth connection element 144, in particular the threaded section 146, a nut element 150 comprised by the second connection element is attached.

[0078] On the side of the base plate 124 opposite the nut element 150 a centering element 152 is located. The centering element 152 represents a third connection element and is formed in one piece with the center element 134. In alternative embodiments the centering element 152 and the center element 134 are realized as separate elements, wherein optionally the centering element 152 is realized in form of a structured washer on which the center element 134 might rest.

[0079] The centering element 152 shown in Figures 6 and 7 comprises an opening 154 being identical with the opening 135 shown in Figure 2 as the center element 134 and the centering element 152 are formed in one piece. Through the opening 135, 154 the fifth connection element 144 is reaching , leading to an alignment of the element 134, 152 concentrically to the through hole 148. By the element 134, 152 the struts 130 and thus the housing 116 are aligned concentrically and symmetrically relative to the through hole 148. .

[0080] In case the first connection element 122 is moved by a tilting force, in particular acting on the first connection element 122, relative to the base plate 124, in particular is tilted relative to the direction D, this movement is carried out against the biasing force provided by the coil spring 142. In particular the tilting force is transmitted via the extension element 158 into the coil spring 142. Due to this force the coil spring 142 is elastically deformed in the area above the fifth connection element. In case the tilting force exceeds the first threshold, for example 2, 4, 6 kN, the indicator elements in form of the tabs 128 and / or struts 130 will change its, in particular inherent, characteristics due to the tilting movement. For example the indicator elements will be permanently deformed or will break. Thus during an inspection of the anchor assembly 114 it will be apparent that the anchor assembly 114 has been tilted due to the exposure to the tilting force above the first threshold, irrespective whether the energy absorber 126 has been moved back into the initial position due to the biasing force of the coils spring 142, in particular is moving back into the position extending into the direction D.

[0081] In case of a fall event the exposure to the force acting on the first connection element 122 continues and the force acting on the first connection element 122 further increases. The housing 116 detaches from the base plate 124. Then the extension element 158 as well as the first connection element 112 and the housing 116 connected thereto, move along the coil spring 142. The coil spring 142 is unrolled and thereby plastically deformed. By this unrolling of the coil spring 142 a link between the first connection element 122 and the fifth connection element 144 is deployed. Furthermore by this plastic deformation of the coil spring 142 the fall energy is absorbed and the fall movement.

[0082] The length of the coil spring 142 is dimensioned such that is does not completely unroll in a fall event such that the first connection element remains connected to the coil spring 142 and the base plate 124 when the fall stops.

[0083] In Figures 8 to 10 an alternative embodiment of a housing 116’ of an anchor assembly 114’ is shown. The elements corresponding to the elements of the housing 116 of the anchor assembly 114 have the same reference number, however with one apostrophe. The housing 116’ comprises indication elements in form of tabs 128’ and as force dissipation elements acting struts 130’. The struts 130’ are connected to a center element 134’. In contrast to the housing 116 in which the center element 134 is part of a fourth connection element 132 to connect the housing 116 to the fixation means in form of base plate 124, the center element 134’ allows a connection of the housing 116’ to the first connection element 122’. In particular the first connection element 122’ can be at least partly located within an opening 135’ formed within the center element 134’. A force acting on the first connection element 122’, in particular a force leading to a tilting of the energy absorber 126’ is thus transferred via the center element 134’ and the struts 130’ into the housing 116’.

[0084] In case the force acting on the energy absorber 126’ via the first connection element 122’ exceeds the first threshold and / or a tilting of the energy absorber and / or the housing 116’ exceeds the first angle, the form of the indicator elements in form of the tabs 128’ and / or the struts 130’ will permanently change or the indicator elements will break such that a user can see easily during an inspection that the anchor assembly 114’ was exposed unwanted stresses and / or forces.

[0085] As can be taken from the different embodiments of the housing described above, the indicator elements and / or force dissipating elements, in particular the struts, can be located at different location within or outside the housing or at least partly above or below the housing and / or an energy absorber, in particular an elastic element or spring of the energy absorber.

[0086] The features disclosed in the claims, the specification and the drawings may be essential for the different embodiments of the claimed subject-matter, either separately or in any combination with each other.

[0087] REFERENCE SIGN LIST

[0088] 100 fall protection system 102 person 104 horizontal lifeline 106 substructure 108 lanyard 110 load transfer device 112 harness H4, 114‘ anchor assembly H6, 116‘ housing 118 first end 120, 120‘ second end 122, 122‘ first connection element 124, 124‘ base plate 126, 126‘ energy absorber 128, 128‘ tab 130, 130‘ strut 132 fourth connection element

[0089] 134, 134‘ center element

[0090] 135, 135‘ opening

[0091] 136, 136‘ hinge 138 joint 140, 140‘ opening 142, 142‘ coil spring 144, 144‘ fifth connection element 146, 146‘ threaded section 148, 148 ‘ through hole 150, 150‘ nut element 152 centering element 154 opening

[0092] 158, 158‘ extension element

[0093] 160, 160‘ plate 162, 162 ‘ distance holder

[0094] 164, 164‘ space

[0095] A direction

[0096] B direction

[0097] D, D’ direction

Claims

CLAIMS1. An anchor assembly (114, 114’), particularly for a fall protection system (100), the anchor assembly (114, 114’) comprising at least one fixation means (124) for connection to at least one substructure (106), at least one energy absorber (126) having a first end (118) at least indirectly connectable to the substructure (106) and / or the fixation means (124) and a second end (120) located opposite the first end (118) comprising at least one first connecting element (122), wherein the energy absorber (126) extends into a first direction (D), and at least one housing (116, 116’) at least partly surrounding the energy absorber (126), characterized in that the housing (116, 116’) comprises and / or is at least indirectly connected to at least one indicator element (128, 128’, 130, 130’) extending into a direction having at least one direction component being perpendicular to the first direction (D), wherein the indicator element (128, 128’, 130, 130’) is configured to permanently change at least one of its characteristics when the energy absorber (126) and / or housing (116, 116’) is tilted from the first direction (D) more than a predefined first angle and / or when a force above a first threshold is acting on the energy absorber (126) and / or the housing (116, 116’).

2. Anchor assembly according to claim 1, wherein the characteristics of the indicator element (128, 128’, 130, 130’) is an inherent characteristic of the indicator element (128, 128’, 130, 130’) and / or comprise a form, a color, an orientation of the indicator element, optionally relative to at least one remaining part, preferably the complete remaining part, of the housing, and / or an integrity of the indicator element (128, 128’, 130, 130’) and / or the permanent change of the characteristic of the indicator element comprises a color change, a deformation, optionally relative to at least one remaining part, preferably the complete remaining part, of the housing, a rupture, a breaking, and / or a tearing of the indicator element (128, 128’, 130, 130’).

3. Anchor assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the indicator element is at least partly located within the housing (116, 116’) and / or at least partly located outside the housing (116, 116’) and / or the indicator element comprises at least one tab element (128, 128’ ) extending outwardly from the housing (116, 116’), especially into a second direction awayfrom the energy absorber (126), wherein preferably the tab element (128, 128’) is configured to withstand forces corresponding to forces below the first threshold acting on the housing (116, 116’) and / or the energy absorber (126) and / or deflections of the housing (116, 116’) and / or the energy absorber (126) below the first angle, in particular without changing the characteristic of the indicator element (128, 128’), and / or the indicator element comprises at least one energy dissipation element (130, 130’), wherein the force dissipation element (130, 130’) is configured to dissipate forces acting on the housing (116, 116’), the first connection element (122) and / or the energy absorber (126) and being below the first threshold into the fixation means (124) and / or the substructure (108).

4. Anchor assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fixation means (124) comprises at least one second connection element (150) for connecting the energy absorber (126) to the fixation means (124) and / or at least one third connection element (152) to connect the housing (116) to the fixation means (124), wherein optionally the second connection element (150) and the third connection element (152) are at least partly formed in one piece.

5. Anchor assembly according to claim 4, wherein the housing (116) comprises at least one fourth connection element (132) configured to be connected to the third connection element (152) and / or at least partly formed in one piece with the third connection element (132), wherein optionally the fourth connection element (132) comprises at least partly the force dissipation element (130).

6. Anchor assembly according to claim 5, wherein the force dissipation element comprises at least one strut element (130, 130’) and / or wherein the force dissipation element and / or the strut element (130, 130’) is optionally configured to be permanently deformed and / or to break, optionally relative to at least one remaining part, preferably the complete remaining part, of the housing, in case a force applied to the energy absorber (126) and / or the housing (116, 116’) exceeds the first threshold.

7. Anchor assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the anchor assembly (114) comprises a plurality of indicator elements (128, 128’, 130, 130’), wherein the indicator elements (128, 128’, 130, 130’) are preferably evenly distributed around the perimeter of the housing (116, 116’) and / or the energy absorber (126), wherein especiallytwo neighboring indicator elements (128, 128’, 130, 130’) enclose an angle of 180 degrees, 120 degrees, 90 degrees, 45 degrees, 30 degrees, and / or any angle relative to a center axis of the housing (116, 116’) and / or the energy absorber (126).

8. Anchor assembly according to one of the claims 5 to 7, wherein the fourth connection element (132) comprises a plurality of force dissipation elements and / or struts (130, 130’), preferably evenly distributed around a center element (134, 134’), in particular a center element (134) of the fourth connection element (132), and / or around the perimeter of the housing (116, 116’), wherein especially two neighboring force dissipation elements and / or struts (130) enclose an angle of 180 degrees, 120 degrees, 90 degrees, 45 degrees, 30 degrees and / or any angle.

9. Anchor assembly according to claim 8, wherein the center element (134) is at least indirectly connectable to the third connection element (152).

10. Anchor assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second connection element comprises at least one opening for a fifth connection element (144) of the energy absorber and / or a at least one sixth connection element, preferably the fourth connection element, of the housing, wherein the second connection element, the fifth connection element (144) and / or the sixth connection element preferably comprise(s) at least one bolt, at least on screw, at least one threaded section (146), and / or at lest one nut (150).

11. Anchor assembly according to claim 10, wherein the fourth connection element (132), in particular the center element (134), is configured to receive at least partly the third connection element (152) and / or the fifth connection element (144) and / or is configured to allow the fifth connection element (144) to reach through the fourth connection element (132), in particular the center element (134).

12. Anchor assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fixation means comprises at least one base plate (124), at least one connector for connecting to a post, to the substructure, to a load bearing structure, to a bottom fix structure and / or to a top fix structure and / or at least one seventh connecting element (148) to connect the fixation means (124) to the substructure (106).

13. Anchor assembly according to claim 12, wherein the seventh connection element comprises at least one opening and / or at least one through hole for at least one screw, at least one bolt, at least one threaded section.

14. Anchor assembly according to one of the claims 4 to 13, wherein the third connection element comprises at least one centering element (152), in particular at least partly comprising at least one disk, at least one washer, and / or at least one sleeve, wherein preferably the fourth connection element, in particular the center element (134), at least partly rests on centering element (152) and / or the center element (134) and the centering element (152) are at least partly formed in one piece, the fifth connection element (144) at least partly reaches through centering element (152) and / or the centering element (152) is concentrically aligned with the seventh connection element (148).

15. Anchor assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the substructure comprises at least partly and / or is formed by at least one support structure (106), at least one roof, at least one rail system, preferably at least partly comprised by and / or connected to the support structure, at least one load bearing structure, at least one indoor inventory and / or at least one high bay storage.

16. Anchor assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the energy absorber (126) comprises, optionally located relative to the first direction (D) on a side of the indicator element(s), in particular the strut(s) (130) facing away from the fixation means (124) or on a side of the indicator element(s), in particular the strut(s) (130’), facing the fixation means (124), at least partly at least one elastic element, at least one spring, at least one coil spring (142), at least one plastic material and / or at least one elastomer material.

17. Anchor assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first direction (D) is perpendicular to a main extension plane of the substructure (106) and / or the fixation means (124), and / or the first direction (D) is parallel to a normal vector of a main extension plane of the substructure (106) and / or the fixation means (124.

18. Anchor assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the energy absorber (126) is at least indirectly and / or at least temporarily connected and / or connectable to the housing (116, 116’), the first connecting element (122) and / or the second end (120) ofthe energy absorber (126) extends out of the housing (116, 116’), is connected to the housing (116, 116’) and / or forms at least a part of the housing (116, 116’).

19. Anchor assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the indicator element (128, 128’, 130, 130’) extends at least partly parallel to a main extension plane of the substructure (106) and / or the fixation means (124) and / or the indicator element (128, 128’, 130, 130’) comprises at least one predetermined breaking point , at least one weakening element, at least one hinge (136) and / or at least one film hinge.

20. Anchor assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first connection element (122) is, directly or indirectly, connectable to at least one lifeline, at least one horizontal lifeline (104), at least one lanyard (108), at least on personal fall limiter, and / or at least one a safety harness worn by a user.

21. Anchor assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the assembly comprises at least one sensing element, in particular configured to sense at least the characteristic of the indicator element (128, 128’, 130, 130’), an amount of tilting of the energy absorber (126) and / or the housing (116, 116’) from the first direction (D), and / or the force acting on the energy absorber (126) and / or the housing (116, 116’), wherein optionally at least one measurement of the sensing element is further processed, optionally processed into at least one alarm, in particular when the first angle and / or the first threshold is exceeded, stored within at least on storing device, transmitted, in particular wirelessly, to at least one receiving element, and / or output by at least one audio and / or visual output device, for example as an audible alarm, and / or a flashing light.

22. Method for indicating the application of unintended forces to an anchor assembly (114, 114’), in particular an anchor assembly (114, 114’) according to one of the preceding claims, the anchor assembly (114, 114’) comprising at least one fixation means (124) for connection to at least one substructure (106), at least one energy absorber (126) having a first end (118) at least indirectly connectable to the fixation means and a second end (120) located opposite the first end (118) comprising at least one first connecting element (122), wherein the energy absorber (126) extends into a first direction (D), andat least one housing (116) at least partly surrounding the energy absorber (126), characterized in that the housing (116, 116’) comprises and / or is connected to at least one indicator element (128, 128’, 130, 130’) extending into a direction having at least one direction component being perpendicular to the first direction (D), wherein the indicator element (128, 128’, 130, 130’) permanently changes at least one of its, optionally inherent, characteristics when the energy absorber (126) and / or housing (116, 116’) is deflected from the first direction (D) more than a predefined first angle and / or when a force above a first threshold is acting on the energy absorber (126) and / or the housing (116, 116’).

23. Method according to claim 22, wherein, when a force above the first threshold is acting of the housing (116, 116’) and / or the energy absorber (126), at least one energy dissipation element, in particular a strut element (130, 130’), of the indicator element and / or a tab element (128, 128’), in particular extending from the housing (116, 116’) into a second direction opposite the energy absorber (126) breaks and / or is permanently deformed.

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