Anchor assembly with defined trigger force and method of absorbing a fall of a user

Abstract

The application is directed to an anchor assembly (114, 114'), particularly for a fall protection system (100), wherein the anchor assembly comprises at least one fixation means (124) for connection to at least one substructure (106), at least one energy absorber (126) having at least one elongate absorber element (130, 130') at least indirectly connectable to the substructure and / or the fixation means at a first end (118, 132, 132') of the energy absorber and / or absorber element, characterized by at least one brake system (153) restricting a movement of the absorber element relative to at least one reinforcing and / or centering element (148, 148') of the anchor assembly as well as a method of absorbing a fall of a user (102) connected to an anchor assembly (114), in particular a claimed anchor assembly (114).

Description

[0001] MSA Europe GmbH Schliisselstr. 12 8645 Jona Switzerland

[0002] ANCHOR ASSEMBLY WITH DEFINED TRIGGER FORCE AND METHOD OF ABSORBING A FALL OF A USER

[0003] SPECIFICATION

[0004] The present disclosure relates 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 at least one elongate absorber element at least indirectly connectable to the substructure and / or the fixation means at a first end of the energy absorber and / or absorber element, and a method of absorbing a fall of a user connected to an anchor assembly, in particular an anchor assembly as claimed, wherein the anchor assembly comprises at least one energy absorber having at least one elongate absorber element at least indirectly connectable to a substructure and / or a fixation means at a first end of the energy absorber, and wherein in case of a fall event the absorber element and at least one reinforcing and / or centering element are moved relative to each other.

[0005] 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, DE 10 132297 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.

[0006] The arrangement can be articulated to different configurations to fit seam spacings of different distances. A similar device is disclosed in DE 20 2007 013 157.

[0007] Furthermore, from WO 2022 / 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, being in particular unequal to zero, 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.

[0008] Finally, an energy absorber is for example disclosed in GB 2 362 448 A.

[0009] 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 triggered by a preloaded before the fall event, in particular that the energy absorber has not been deflected or deployed before the fall event. Sometimes an anchor system, in particular its energy absorber, is accidentally loaded with a load. In horizontal lifeline systems such a load can be caused by environmental influences after setup, 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 leading to an unintended movement and also a normal setup of the anchor assembly can cause unintended movements and loads.

[0010] Thus, in known anchor systems the problem exists that unintended movement, sometime also causing an unintended deployment of the energy absorber, can occur. Such a deflection and / or deployment, although a fall arrest is not needed, triggers the energy absorbing system, i.e., the anchor assembly, in particular the energy absorber, the absorber element and / or a housing of the anchor assembly, is deformed and / or deployed. The lifeline system in which the anchor assembly is used has a defined pre-tension. Thus, an unintended triggering of the anchor assembly, in particular a tilting or tip-over, leads to a failed horizontal lifeline system, in particular instabilities for the user as for example the tension of the horizontal lifeline might be reduced. Thus an unintended movement can lead to unusable lifeline systems.

[0011] In case of such an unintended triggering of the anchor assembly, in anchor systems known in the prior art, especially anchor systems being on the market, it furthermore often 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.

[0012] 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 a triggering, deformation and / or deployment of the anchor assembly is avoided in normal use conditions.

[0013] According to a first aspect this problem is solved in that the anchor assembly is characterized by at least one brake system restricting a movement of the absorber element relative to at least one reinforcing and / or centering element of the anchor assembly.

[0014] With the invention it is furthermore proposed that the first end of the absorber element reaches through at least one aperture within the reinforcing and / or centering element, wherein the brake system comprises at least one blockage element having at least one outer dimension providing a form fit with the aperture, wherein optionally the absorber element comprises at least partly the blockage element.

[0015] It is also proposed that the anchor assembly further comprises at least one guide element wherein the absorber element is at least partly reaching through at least one opening comprised by the guide element.

[0016] The anchor assembly can be characterized in that at least one first connection element is located at a second end of the energy absorber, optionally located opposite the first end of the energy absorber, wherein the reinforcing and / or centering element is at least indirectly connectable and / or connected to the first connection element via at least one link element.

[0017] For this embodiment it is proposed that the link element comprises at least partly and / or is at least partly formed by the guide element, at least one housing of the anchor assembly, optionally at least partly surrounding the energy absorber, and / or the energy absorber.

[0018] According to advantageous embodiments the guide element is connectable to the fixation means and / or the substructure and / or rests at least indirectly on the fixation means and / or the substructure.

[0019] It is also preferred that the fixation means comprises at least one base plate, at least one connector for connecting to at least one post, to the substructure, to a load bearing structure, to a bottom fix structure and / or to a top fix structure. In advantageous embodiments the absorber element comprises at least partly at least one elastic element, at least one at least partly wound and / or rolled-up element, at least one plastically deformable element, at least one spring, at least one spiral element, at least one coil element, at least one coil spring, at least one plastic material, at least one metal material, at least one plastically deformable material and / or at least one elastomeric material.

[0020] Furthermore, it is proposed that the outer dimension of the blockage element is greater than the inner diameter of the aperture and / or the blockage element is at least partly formed one piece with the absorber element, optionally comprises at least one thickening, at least one extension, and / or at least one diameter extension, of the absorber element and or the blockage element is, optionally detachably, connected to the absorber element and / or comprises at least one ring, at least one clamp, at least one retaining ring, at least one from the absorber element outwardly extending pin and / or tongue.

[0021] Preferred embodiments of the anchor assembly are characterized in that the brake system, optionally the blockage element and the reinforcing and / or centering element, in particular the aperture of the reinforcing and / or centering element, is configured to hinder, stop and / or prohibit a movement in at least one direction, preferably in two directions, of the absorber element relative to the reinforcing and / or centering element, in particular the aperture of the reinforcing and / or centering element, optionally along a longitudinal direction of the absorber element, in case a first force below a first threshold, wherein the first threshold is unequal to zero, is acting on the energy absorber, the first connection element, the guide element, and / or the absorber element, and to give free a movement of the absorber element in at least one direction, optionally in two directions, relative to the reinforcing and / or centering element, in particular the aperture of the reinforcing and / or centering element, optionally along a longitudinal direction of the absorber element, in case the first force applied onto the energy absorber, the first connection element, the guide element, and / or the absorber element exceeds the first threshold.

[0022] It is proposed that the blockage element and / or the reinforcing and / or centering element, in particular the aperture within the reinforcing and / or centering element, optionally permanently, deform(s), break(s), and / or deflects when the first force exceeds the first threshold. In preferred embodiment the absorber element comprises at least one stop element to restrict a travel of the absorber element through the opening of the guide element and / or a travel of the guide element along the absorber element, wherein preferably the stop element has at least one outer dimension providing a form fit with the opening, optionally the outer dimension of the stop element being greater than the inner dimension of the opening.

[0023] An anchor assembly can be characterized in that the guide element comprises at least one pair of guide plates wherein the opening is at least partly formed by at least one gap between the guide plates.

[0024] For the before described embodiment it is proposed that the guide element comprises at least one distance holder, optionally comprising at least one screw element, located at least partly between the guide plates.

[0025] It is also proposed that the guide element comprises at least one roller element, optionally allowing a gliding of the absorber element along the roller element, wherein the roller element is preferably in work relationship with, at least partly comprised by, connected to and / or located at the distance holder.

[0026] Furthermore, is it preferred that the guide element is detachably connectable and / or, preferably detachably, connected to the fixation means and / or the substructure and / or the reinforcing and / or centering element is, optionally permanently, connected to the guide element.

[0027] Also, the anchor assembly can be characterized in that the guide element rests on and / or is connected to the fixation means and / or the substructure via the reinforcing and / or centering element.

[0028] In preferred embodiments the reinforcing and / or centering element is at least partly radial symmetric and / or at least partly comprises at least one disk, at least one washer, at least on spacer element, at least one eyebolt and / or at least one sleeve.

[0029] Also an anchor assembly can be characterized in that the guide element has at least partly in at least one first area a form being complementary to a form of a second area of the fixation means, of the substructure and / or of the reinforcing and / or centering element, in particular the first area and the second area form a force fit and / or form fit connection, at least one tongue- and-groove connection, at least one clip connection, at least one latch connection and / or at least one snap-in connection.

[0030] For this embodiment it is proposed that the guide element comprises at least one recess and the reinforcing and / or centering element comprises at least one, preferably radial symmetric, extension, at least partly reaching into the recess of the guide element and / or the reinforcing and / or centering element comprises at least one recess and the reinforcing and / or centering element comprises at least one, preferably radial symmetric, extension, at least partly reaching into the recess of the reinforcing and / or centering element.

[0031] Furthermore, it is preferred that the reinforcing and / or centering element comprises at least one elastic material, at least one plastic material, at least one metal material and / or at least one composite material.

[0032] Additionally or alternatively it is proposed that the first connection element is, directly or indirectly, connectable 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, optionally worn by a user.

[0033] With the invention it is proposed that 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.

[0034] Also, an anchor assembly can show that the energy absorber extends into a first direction.

[0035] Furthermore it is preferred 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 tilted from the first direction more than a predefined first angle and / or when a second force, in particular the first force, above a second threshold, optionally the first threshold and / or a second threshold being unequal to zero, is acting on the energy absorber, the first connection element, the guide element, the absorber element and / or the housing.

[0036] Advantageous embodiments can be characterized in that the characteristics of the indicator element comprise a form, a color, 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, a rupture, a breaking, and / or a tearing of the indicator element.

[0037] With the application is it also proposed 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 second forces corresponding to forces below the second threshold, in particular the first threshold, acting on the housing and / or the energy absorber and / or deflections of the housing and / or the energy absorber 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 second forces, in particular first forces, acting on the housing, the first connection element and / or the energy absorber and being below the second threshold, in particular the first threshold, into the fixation means and / or the substructure.

[0038] For the before described embodiment it is preferred that the force dissipation element comprises at least one strut element and / or wherein the force dissipation element and / or the strut element is optionally configured to be permanently deformed and / or to break in case the second force applied to the energy absorber and / or the housing exceeds the second threshold, in particular the first threshold.

[0039] Also it is 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. Finally an anchor assembly can be characterized in 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.

[0040] The claimed method can be characterized in that the movement between the absorber element and the reinforcing and / or centering element along a longitudinal axis of the absorber element is prevented in at least one direction by at least one brake system as long as a first force acting on the absorber element and / or the reinforcing and / or centering element remains below a first threshold.

[0041] For the method it is proposed that a first end of the absorber element reaches through at least one aperture within the reinforcing and / or centering element and the brake system comprises at least one blockage element.

[0042] Also it is preferred for the method that the absorber element comprises at least partly the blockage element and / or the blockage element has at least one outer dimension providing a form fit with the aperture in case the first force is below the first threshold.

[0043] With the application it is proposed for the method that in case the first force exceeds the first threshold the blockage element and / or the reinforcing and / or centering element is / are, optionally permanently, deformed, broken, and / or deflected.

[0044] Furthermore it is proposed that the first force is acting on the reinforcing and / or centering element via at least one link element, at least one guide element and / or at least one first connection element, wherein optionally the reinforcing and / or centering element is at least indirectly connected to the link element, to the guide element and / or the first connection element.

[0045] For the before described embodiment it is preferred that the absorber element extends through at least one opening within the guide element and in case the first force exceeds the first threshold the guide element travels along the absorber element, wherein optionally during a travel of the guide element the absorber element is deformed, optionally elastically, plastically and / or permanently deformed. It is also proposed that the travel of the guide element along the absorber element is restricted by at least one stop element, optionally at least partly comprised by and / or connected to the absorber element.

[0046] Furthermore a method can be characterized in that at least one housing at least partly surrounding the energy absorber, comprises and / or is connected to at least one indicator element, wherein the indicator element permanently changes at least one of its characteristics when the energy absorber and / or housing is deflected by a second force, in particular the first force, exceeding a second threshold, in particular the first threshold.

[0047] Finally it is proposed for the claimed method that when a force above the second 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 second direction opposite the energy absorber breaks and / or is permanently deformed.

[0048] Thus the claimed subject matter is based on the astonishing perception that an unintended triggering of the anchor assembly, in particular deformation and / or deployment of the energy absorber and / or absorber element, can be avoided by using a brake system ensuring that a movement of the energy absorber and / or the absorber element is only initiated in case a force above the first threshold is acting on the anchor assembly, wherein the brake system does not influence the absorber force and the absorption capabilities during a fall event itself.

[0049] By ensuring with the help of the brake system that the movement of the energy absorber and / or the absorber element does not start when a first force being below the first threshold is acting on the anchor assembly, the anchor assembly can withstand environmental influences without losing its ability to effectively, absorb a fall event and without negatively influencing the usability of the lifeline system.

[0050] In preferred embodiments the brake system comprises at least one blockage element coacting with at least one aperture, in particular a blockage element comprised by the absorber element, like spiral element, that is reaching through the aperture, in particular formed within a reinforcing element. By providing the blockage element having at least one outer dimension providing a form fit with the aperture, in particular formed within a reinforcing and / or centering element through which the absorber element is moved, in particular pushed and / or pulled, in a fall event, it is ensured that the blockage element gets in contact with the aperture and limits the movement and / or deployment of the absorber element.

[0051] Due to the resistance of the brake system, in particular the blockage element and the aperture, it is ensured that the absorber element can not move further through the aperture even in case a force being below the first threshold, i.e. a force being below a force occurring in a fall event and triggering the anchor assembly, is acting on the anchor assembly.

[0052] In particular the blockage element gets in contact with the reinforcing and / or centering element and / or its aperture, during a setup of the anchor assembly but is not moved, for example pulled o pushed through the aperture.

[0053] The blockage element can for example be generated by a diameter increase on a straight area of the absorber element. Possible embodiments of the blockage element are a deformed material or surface of the absorber element or an additional part connected to the absorber element such that an increased outer dimension, for example outer diameter, compared to the inner diameter of the aperture is provided.

[0054] This lager outer dimension provides the form fit ensuring that the blockage element gets in contact with the aperture of the reinforcing and / or centering element but cannot be moved and / or pulled through it by a force below the first threshold due to it’s lager size.

[0055] However, in case a force above the first threshold is acting on the anchor assembly, in particular the energy absorber and / or the absorber element, the brake system releases a brake acting on the anchor system, for example the absorber element, in particular the blockage element and / or the reinforcing and / or centering element is / are deformed allowing that the blockage element can be moved, in particular pulled and / or pushed, through the aperture.

[0056] Once the brake of the brake system is released, in particular the blockage element has been moved through the aperture, the brake system, in particular the reinforcing and / or centering element, does not negatively influence a further movement of the absorber element such that a fall can be absorbed in the best possible way.

[0057] The brake system, in particular the combination of the blockage element and the aperture of the reinforcing and / or centering element, allows to define the first threshold in a precise way. By adapting the brake and the brake release force and / or a geometry, dimensions, in particular relative dimensions, and / or materials of the blockage element, the aperture and / or the reinforcing and / or centering element, the functionality of the brake system, in particular the force necessary to move the blockage element through the aperture, can be adjusted, in particular to the required force to ensure that a first force below the first threshold does not deform, trigger and / or deploy the anchor assembly.

[0058] 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

[0059] Figure 1 is a schematic drawing of a fall-protection system including a horizontal lifeline;

[0060] Figure 2 is a perspective view onto an anchor assembly according a first embodiment of the claimed subject-matter;

[0061] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the anchor assembly from direction A in Figure 2;

[0062] Figure 4 is a perspective view onto an energy absorber of the anchor assembly of Fig. 2 after removal of a housing of the anchor assembly; and omitting the fixation means.

[0063] Figure 5 is a cross sectional view onto the energy absorber of Figure 3 from direction B in Figure 3 before triggering of the anchor assembly;

[0064] Figure 6 is a view showing the detail C in Figure 5; Figure 7 is a perspective view onto the blockage element and the reinforcement and / or centering element in the direction E of Figures 5 and 6 before triggering of the anchor assembly;

[0065] Figure 8 is a cross sectional view similar to Figure 7 after a triggering of the anchor assembly;

[0066] Figure 9 is a perspective view onto the blockage element and the reinforcement and / or centering element in the direction F of Figure 8; and

[0067] Figure 10 is a cross sectional view similar to Figure 8 onto a further embodiment of a blockage element and element and the reinforcement and / or centering element according to a second embodiment.

[0068] Figure 1 is a diagram depicting a fall protection system 100 in form of a lifeline securing a person 102 performing construction operations at atop of a structure. The system 100 includes an elongate support member in form of a horizontal lifeline 104.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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 first forces above a first threshold, for example 6kN. For this purpose, the anchor assembly 114 is configured to tip during the energy absorption.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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 106 shown in figure 1 via a connection element for example formed by a hole through which a screw can reach into the substructure 106. 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] In case a second force exceeding a second threshold, in particular the first force exceeding the first threshold triggering the anchor system, is acting on the anchor assembly 114 and / or that the energy absorber 126 and / or the housing 116 have been tilted by more than a first angle a service person can recognize that such a second 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 characteristic of the indicator elements 128.

[0076] 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 predefined first threshold it is ensured that the housing 116 withstands these forces so that a tension of the horizontal lifeline 104 remains constant as explained below . Thus it is ensured that a preload above the first threshold and / or tilting that 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 can be detected from outside. 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 although the first threshold has been exceeded and the anchor assembly has been triggered, deformed and / or deployed 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 or by a manual intervention of the user is moved back into the initial position, in particular such that the housing 116 and / or the energy absorber 126 are extending into the direction D.

[0077] The tabs 128 in particular comprise a predetermined breaking point in form of a hinge. When a tilting of the housing 116 is taking place the tab 128 breaks at the hinge leading to a permanent deformation of the tab or a disconnection of the tab 128 from the remaining part of the housing 116.

[0078] 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 a force exceeding the second threshold, in particular the first threshold, 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.

[0079] With the help of the Figures 3 to 5 further details of the anchor assembly 114 are described.

[0080] Fig. 3 shows a cross-sectional views of the anchor assembly 114 in the direction of Figure 1. In Fig. 3 and 4 particular details of the internal structure of the energy absorber 126 are depicted.

[0081] The first connection element 122 of the energy absorber 126 comprises in the shown embodiment a threaded opening 123. The first connection element 122 is in working relationship with an elastic element in form of an absorber element comprising a spiral element 130. In particular the first connection element 122 is connected to a guide element 138, in particular comprising the first connection element 122. The guide element 138 comprises two, optionally parallel, guide plates 140a, 140b that are connected via distance holders 142, that optionally might comprise at least one screw element, on which optionally respective roller elements 146 can be located. The distance holders 142 in particular ensure that between the guide plates 140a, 140b an opening in form of a gap 144 is formed. The absorber element 130 extends partly through the gap 144 forming the opening in the guide element 138 between the guide plates 140a, 140b through which the spiral element 130 can travel during a fall event as explained later. In particular the spiral element 130 enters into the guide element 138 at a lower end, i.e. an end facing to the base plate 124 and / or the first end 132 of the absorber element in form of the spiral element 130 and / or to the first end 118 of the energy absorber 126, respectively. The spiral element 130 exits the guide element 138 perpendicular to the direction D, mainly parallel to the base plate 124 and perpendicular to an extension of the distance holders 142, respectively.

[0082] A first end 132 of the spiral element 130 forms a second connection element 133. In particular the second connection element 133 is formed by a threaded section comprised by the first end 132 of the spiral element 130. The second connection element 133 in particular reaches into or through a hole formed in the base plate 124. In case the hole 131 formed in the base plate 124 comprises a threaded section the second connection element 133 can be screwed into the base plate 124. Alternatively, a nut element can be attached to, in particular screwed onto, the second connection element 133 when the second connection element 133 reaches through the hole formed in the base plate 124. .

[0083] Above the hole formed in the base plate 124, optionally on the side of the base plate 124 opposite the nut element, a reinforcing and / or centering element 148 is located. The reinforcing and / or centering element 148 is permanently connected to the guide element as explained below.

[0084] The reinforcing and / or centering element 148 shown in more detail in Figure 4 comprises an aperture 149. Through the aperture 149 the first end 132 of the absorber element comprising the spiral element 130 is extending, leading to an alignment of the absorber element 130 and the guide element 148 concentrically to the hole formed within the base plate 124. 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 absorber element 130. In particular the tilting force is transmitted via the first connection element 122 and / or the guide element 138 into the absorber element 130. Due to this force the spiral element 130 is elastically deformed in the area above the second connection element. In case the tilting force exceeds the first threshold, for example 2, 4 or 6 kN, the indicator elements in form of the tabs 128 will change its characteristics due to the tilting movement. For example, the indicator elements 128 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, in particular is moving back into the position extending into the direction D.

[0085] The guide element 138 is connected to the base plate 124 in the area of the reinforcing and / or centering element 148. The guide element 138 and the centering element 148 are connected to each other, in the shown embodiment in a form fit manner. In particular the guide element 138, especially the guide plates 140a, 140b, comprise recess 150 into which extensions 152 of the reinforcing and / or centering element 148 are reaching.

[0086] In case of a fall event and / or forces acting on the first connection element, in particular in a direction perpendicular to the direction D an area of the spiral element 130 is located within the guide element 138. Due to the extension of the guide plates 140a, 140b and the contact of the spiral element 130 with the distance holders 142, the guide element 138 has to act against the same resistance of the spiral element 130, irrespective into which direction the force is action perpendicular to direction D. In this way it is ensured that a best possible absorption of the fall event is reached irrespective in which direction the fall event occurs, i.e. in which direction perpendicular to the direction D the fall event occurs.

[0087] Furthermore, due to the extension of the guide element 138 and the reinforcing and / or centering element 148 in a direction perpendicular to the direction D the guide element 138 and the reinforcing and / or centering element 148 act as a lever. Because of the rotationally symmetrical shape of the centering element 148 this lever shows the same behavior in all directions. As the spiral element 130 is connected to the base plate 124 by the second connection element 133 a tilting of the guide element 138 leads to a movement of the spiral element 130 through the aperture 149 within the reinforcing and / or centering element 148 as the center of the guide element 138 and the reinforcing and / or centering element 148 are lifted and / or pulled away from the base plate 124.

[0088] Thus, by tipping of the guide element 138 the connection between the base plate 124 on the one hand and the guide element 138 as well as the reinforcing and / or centering element 148 is at least partly disconnected. In case the force acts continuously on the first connection element 122 the guide element 138 and the reinforcing and / or centering element 148 are pulled along the absorber element 130. In particular the guide element 138 acts as a link element between the first connection element 122 to which optionally a lifeline is connected, and the reinforcing and / or centering element 148.

[0089] 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 guide element 138 as well as the first connection element 122 and the housing 116 connected thereto, travel along the absorber element in form of the spiral element 130. By the forces acting on the guide element 138, the spiral element 130 is plastically deformed, in particular without a breaking or weakening of the spiral element 130. By this deformation forces acting on the first connection element 122 are transformed into forces leading to the plastic deformation of the spiral element 130, in particular leading to a stretching of the spiral element 130 from the spiral form into a straight form and thus absorbing the forces acting on the first connection element 122 and the guide element 138, respectively. The absorber element 130 is thus “unrolled”. Irrespective of this unrolling of the spiral element 130 a link between the first connection element 122 and the second connection element 133 and the base plate 124 is maintained via the spiral element 130 and by this plastic deformation of the absorber element 130 the fall energy is absorbed. By roller elements 146 the guide element 138 is traveling smoothly along the spiral element 130 easing a relative movement of a guide element 138 relative to the spiral element 130. The roller elements 146 can be rotatable or blocked in the guide element 138, in particular depending on whether the gliding of the spiral element 130 on the distance holders 142 should be supported or hindered, in particular to adjust a resistance and / or absorption force. Furthermore, the forms and / or positions of the distance holders 142 and the roller elements 146, respectively, define the necessary force to deform the spiral element 130. Different forces could be adjusted by changing the positions and / or form of the distance holders 142 and / or the roller elements 146.

[0090] This deformation of the spiral element 130 takes place as long as the complete fall energy is absorbed by the deformation of the spiral element 130. The spiral element 130 is dimensioned such that a fall event of one or more people does not lead to a sufficient force to deform the complete spiral element 130.

[0091] However, in case higher forces are acting on the first connection element 122 and the guide element 138, it is ensured that the guide element 138 remains in connection with the spiral element 130 which in turn remains connected to the base plate 124 at the first end 132. This is reached by a stop element 136 located at a second end of the absorber element in form of the spiral element 130. The stop element 136 has a diameter that is greater than the inner diameter of the gap 144 such that a movement of the guide element 138 along the spiral element 130 is stopped by the stop element 136 by a form fit of the gap 144 that forms an opening within the guide element and the stop element.

[0092] In an alternative not shown embodiments the guide element might comprise other configurations, for example a closed body having openings through which the absorber element is extending and guided by the guide element between the openings.

[0093] The absorber element is not restricted to a wound element or element in form of a spiral or coil. This spiral configuration has inter alias the advantage that an installation space is kept small. But any other configuration of the absorber element can be used that is elastically and / or plastically deformed, in particular into an elongate form, thereby absorbing energy acting on the absorber element. In other not discussed embodiments the energy absorber allows to generate a constant counter force acting against the force generated during the fall event with an elastic absorber element.

[0094] As shown in Figure 5 the absorber element 130 comprises a brake system 153. The brake system 153 allows to restrict a movement of the guide element 138 and the first connection element 122 along the absorber element 130 as long as the first threshold is not exceeded. In the described embodiment of the anchor assembly 114 the brake system 153 comprises a blockage element 154 and the reinforcing and / or centering element 148, in particular the aperture 149 in the reinforcing and / or centering element 148.

[0095] In the embodiment shown in Figure 5 the blockage element comprises a retaining ring 154 connected to the absorber element 130 in the area of a groove 156 formed in the surface of the absorber element.

[0096] In Figures 6 and 7 the blockage element 154 and the reinforcing and / or centering element 148 are shown in more detail. From Figures 6 and 7 it becomes apparent that the blockage element 154 has an outer dimension, in particular outer diameter, being greater than the minimum inner diameter of the aperture 149 of the reinforcing and / or centering element 148. These relative dimensions of the aperture 149 and the blockage element 154 lead to a form fit between the aperture 149 and the blockage element 154 when a force is acting onto the first connection element 122. In other words the blockage element is braking a movement of the absorber element 130 relative to the first connection element 122. The fist connection element 122 is indirectly connected to the reinforcing and / or centering element 148 via the guide element 138 as explained before such that a force acting on the first connection element 122 acts on the contact surface of the reinforcing and / or centering element 148 in the area of the aperture 149, in particular the inner surface of the aperture 149 of the reinforcing and / or centering element 148, and the blockage element 154 that are in contact. This contact prohibits a further movement of the reinforcing and / or centering element 148 relative to the absorber element 130 in the direction G in Figure 5 and 6.

[0097] Due to the connection of the reinforcing and / or centering element 148 to the guide element 138 and the first connection element 122 also a movement of the guide element 138 and the first connection element 122 along the absorber element 130 is prohibited.

[0098] This restriction of the movement of the reinforcing and / or centering element 148, the guide element 138 and the first connection element 122 is upheld as long as the first force acting on the first connection element 122 is below the first threshold.

[0099] In case this first threshold is exceeded, the aperture 149 can be pulled over the blockage element 154. The first force leads to a release of the brake provided by the braking system 153 by an, optionally plastic, deformation and / or breaking of the blockage element 154 and / or the reinforcing and / or centering element 148 in the area of the aperture 149. It is also possible that the retaining ring gets disconnected from the absorber element thus not limiting not anymore the relative movement of the reinforcing and / or centering element 148 and the absorber element 130.

[0100] In Figures 8 and 9 the situation is shown when the first force has exceeded the first threshold. The reinforcing and / or centering element 148 has moved into the direction G and the blockage element 154 has been pulled through the aperture 149. Irrespective of a magnitude of the force acting on the first connection element, in particular also by forces being below the first threshold, the reinforcing and / or centering element 148 can move further along the absorber element 130 without any further restrictions other than the deformation necessary to “unroll” the absorber element 130. Thus, the brake system 153, in particular the blockage element 154 does not negatively influence the absorption of a fall event.

[0101] In Figure 10 an alternative embodiment of a absorber assembly 114’ is shown. Elements of the absorber assembly 114’ corresponding to elements of the absorber assembly 114 have the same reference sign but with one apostrophe.

[0102] In contrast to the blockage element 154, the blockage element 154’ of the absorber assembly 114’ is formed one piece with the remaining part of the absorber element 130’. The blockage element 154’ is formed as a thickening of the absorber element 130.

[0103] By the blockage element 154, 154’ it is ensured that the absorber assembly is not deformed or deployed or triggered as long as the force acting on the absorber assembly, in particular the first connection element, does not exceed the first threshold. Thus, is it ensured that during normal system use and setup as well as environmental influences no unintended movement of status change of the absorber assembly that otherwise could lead to an unusable lifeline system can occur. By the indicator elements is it furthermore ensured that the situation that a force exceeding the first threshold has acted into the anchor assembly can be easily recognized from outside. 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.

[0104] REFERENCE SIGN LIST fall protection system person horizontal lifeline substructure lanyard load transfer device harness , 114’ anchor assembly housing first end second end first connection element threaded opening base plate energy absorber tab , 130’ spiral element threaded opening , 132’ first end , 133’ second connection element second end stop element , 138’ guide element a, 140a’, 140b guide plate , 142’ distance holder gap , 146’ roller element , 148’ reinforcing and / or centering element, 149’ aperture recess 152 extension

[0105] 153, 153’ brake system

[0106] 154, 154’ blockage element

[0107] 156 groove

[0108] C Detail

[0109] A, B, D, E, F, G 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 at least one elongate absorber element (130, 130’) at least indirectly connectable to the substructure (106) and / or the fixation means (124) at a first end (118, 132, 132’) of the energy absorber (126) and / or absorber element (130, 130’), characterized by at least one brake system (153, 153’) restricting a movement of the absorber element (130, 130’) relative to at least one reinforcing and / or centering element (148, 148’) of the anchor assembly (114, 114’).

2. Anchor assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the first end (132 132’) of the absorber element (130,130’) reaches through at least one aperture (149, 149’) within the reinforcing and / or centering element (148, 148’), wherein the brake system (153, 153’) comprises at least one blockage element (154, 154’) having at least one outer dimension providing a form fit with the aperture (149, 149’), wherein optionally the absorber element (130, 130’) comprises at least partly the blockage element (154, 154’).

3. The anchor assembly according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising at least one guide element (138) wherein the absorber element (130) is at least partly reaching through at least one opening (144) comprised by the guide element (138).

4. The anchor assembly according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one first connection element (122) located at a second end (120) of the energy absorber (126), optionally located opposite the first end (118) of the energy absorber (126), wherein the reinforcing and / or centering element (148) is at least indirectly connectable and / or connected to the first connection element (122) via at least one link element.

5. The anchor assembly according to claim 4, wherein the link element comprises at least partly and / or is at least partly formed by the guide element (138), at least onehousing (116) of the anchor assembly (114), optionally at least partly surrounding the energy absorber (126), and / or the energy absorber (126).

6. The anchor assembly according to one of the claims 3 to 5, wherein the guide element (138) is connectable to the fixation means (124) and / or the substructure (106) and / or rests at least indirectly on the fixation means (124) and / or the substructure (106).

7. The 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 at least one post, to the substructure, to a load bearing structure, to a bottom fix structure and / or to a top fix structure.

8. The anchor assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the absorber element comprises at least partly at least one elastic element, at least one at least partly wound and / or rolled-up element, at least one plastically deformable element, at least one spring, at least one spiral element (130), at least one coil element, at least one coil spring, at least one plastic material, at least one metal material, at least one plastically deformable material and / or at least one elastomeric material.

9. The anchor assembly according to one of the claims 2 to 8, wherein the outer dimension of the blockage element (154) is greater than the inner diameter of the aperture (149) and / or the blockage element (154’) is at least partly formed one piece with the absorber element (130’), optionally comprises at least one thickening, at least one extension, and / or at least one diameter extension, of the absorber element (130’) and or the blockage element is, optionally detachably, connected to the absorber element (130) and / or comprises at least one ring, at least one clamp, at least one retaining ring (154), at least one from the absorber element outwardly extending pin and / or tongue.

10. The anchor assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the brake system, optionally the blockage element (154) and the reinforcing and / or centering element (148), in particular the aperture (149) of the reinforcing and / orcentering element (148), is configured to hinder, stop and / or prohibit a movement in at least one direction (G), preferably in two directions, of the absorber element (130) relative to the reinforcing and / or centering element (148), in particular the aperture (149) of the reinforcing and / or centering element (148), optionally along a longitudinal direction of the absorber element (130), in case a first force below a first threshold, wherein the first threshold is unequal to zero, is acting on the energy absorber (126), the first connection element (122), the guide element (138), and / or the absorber element (130), and to give free a movement of the absorber element (130) in at least one direction, optionally in two directions, relative to the reinforcing and / or centering element (148), in particular the aperture (149) of the reinforcing and / or centering element (148), optionally along a longitudinal direction of the absorber element (130), in case the first force applied onto the energy absorber (126), the first connection element (122), the guide element (138), and / or the absorber element (130) exceeds the first threshold.

11. The anchor assembly according to one of the claims 2 to 10, wherein the blockage element (154) and / or the reinforcing and / or centering element (148), in particular the aperture (149) within the reinforcing and / or centering element (148), optionally permanently, deform(s), break(s), and / or deflects when the first force exceeds the first threshold.

12. The anchor assembly according to one of the claims 3 to 11, wherein the absorber element (130) comprises at least one stop element (136) to restrict a travel of the absorber element (130) through the opening (144) of the guide element (138) and / or a travel of the guide element (138) along the absorber element (130), wherein preferably the stop element (136) has at least one outer dimension providing a form fit with the opening (144), optionally the outer dimension of the stop element (136) being greater than the inner dimension of the opening (144).

13. The anchor assembly according to one of the claims 3 to 12, wherein the guide element (138) comprises at least one pair of guide plates (140a, 140b) wherein the opening is at least partly formed by at least one gap (144) between the guide plates (140a, 140b).

14. The anchor assembly according to claim 13, wherein the guide element (138) comprises at least one distance holder (142), optionally comprising at least one screw element, located at least partly between the guide plates (140a, 140b).

15. The anchor assembly according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the guide element (138) comprises at least one roller element (146), optionally allowing a gliding of the absorber element (130) along the roller element (146), wherein the roller element (146) is preferably in work relationship with, at least partly comprised by, connected to and / or located at the distance holder (142).

16. The anchor assembly according to one of the claims 3 to 15, wherein the guide element (138) is detachably connectable and / or, preferably detachably, connected to the fixation means (124) and / or the substructure (106) and / or the reinforcing and / or centering element is, optionally permanently, connected to the guide element.

17. The anchor assembly according to one of the claims 3 to 16, wherein the guide element (138) rests on and / or is connected to the fixation means (124) and / or the substructure (106) via the reinforcing and / or centering element (148).

18. The anchor assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the reinforcing and / or centering element (148) is at least partly radial symmetric and / or at least partly comprises at least one disk, at least one washer, at least on spacer element, at least one eyebolt and / or at least one sleeve.

19. The anchor assembly according to one of the claims 3 to 18, wherein the guide element (138) has at least partly in at least one first area a form being complementary to a form of a second area of the fixation means (124), of the substructure (106) and / or of the reinforcing and / or centering element (148), in particular the first area and the second area form a force fit and / or form fit connection, at least one tongue-and-groove connection, at least one clip connection, at least one latch connection and / or at least one snap-in connection.

20. The anchor assembly according to claim 19, wherein the guide element (138) comprises at least one recess (150) and the reinforcing and / or centering element (148) comprises at least one, preferably radial symmetric, extension (152), at least partly reaching into the recess (150) of the guide element (138) and / or the reinforcing and / or centering element comprises at least one recess and the reinforcing and / or centering element comprises at least one, preferably radial symmetric, extension, at least partly reaching into the recess of the reinforcing and / or centering element.

21. The anchor assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the reinforcing and / or centering element (148) comprises at least one elastic material, at least one plastic material, at least one metal material and / or at least one composite material.

22. The 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, at least one lanyard (106), at least on personal fall limiter, and / or at least one a safety harness (112), optionally worn by a user (102).

23. The anchor assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the substructure (106) 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.

24. The anchor assembly (114, 114’) according to one of the preceding claims , wherein the energy absorber (126) extends into a first direction (D).

25. The anchor assembly according to one of the claims 5 to 24, wherein the housing (116) comprises and / or is at least indirectly connected to at least one indicator element (128) extending into a direction having at least one direction component being perpendicular to the first direction (D), wherein the indicator element (128) is configured to permanently change at least one of its characteristics when the energy absorber (126) and / or housing (116) is tilted from the first direction(D) more than a predefined first angle and / or when a second force, in particular the first force, above a second threshold, optionally the first threshold and / or a second threshold being unequal to zero, is acting on the energy absorber (126), the first connection element, the guide element, the absorber element and / or the housing (116).

26. The anchor assembly according to claim 25, wherein the characteristics of the indicator element (128) comprise a form, a color, and / or an integrity of the indicator element (128) and / or the permanent change of the characteristic of the indicator element comprises a color change, a deformation, a rupture, a breaking, and / or a tearing of the indicator element (128).

27. The anchor assembly according to claim 25 or 26, wherein the indicator element is at least partly located within the housing (116) and / or at least partly located outside the housing (116) and / or the indicator element comprises at least one tab element (128) extending outwardly from the housing (116), especially into a second direction away from the energy absorber (126), wherein preferably the tab element (128) is configured to withstand second forces corresponding to forces below the second threshold, in particular the first threshold, acting on the housing (116) and / or the energy absorber (126) and / or deflections of the housing (116) and / or the energy absorber (126) below the first angle, in particular without changing the characteristic of the indicator element (128), and / or the indicator element comprises at least one energy dissipation element, wherein the force dissipation element is configured to dissipate second forces, in particular first forces, acting on the housing (116), the first connection element (122) and / or the energy absorber (126) and being below the second threshold, in particular the first threshold, into the fixation means (124) and / or the substructure (108).

28. The anchor assembly according to claim 27, wherein the force dissipation element comprises at least one strut element and / or wherein the force dissipation element and / or the strut element is optionally configured to be permanently deformed and / or to break in case the second force applied to the energy absorber (126) and / or the housing (116) exceeds the second threshold, in particular the first threshold.

29. The anchor assembly according to one of the claims 25 to 28, wherein the anchor assembly (114) comprises a plurality of indicator elements (128), wherein the indicator elements (128) are preferably evenly distributed around the perimeter of the housing (116) and / or the energy absorber (126), wherein especially two neighboring indicator elements (128) 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) and / or the energy absorber (126).

30. The anchor assembly according to one of the claims 25 to 29, wherein the indicator element (128) 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) comprises at least one predetermined breaking point , at least one weakening element, at least one hinge and / or at least one film hinge.

31. Method of absorbing a fall of a user (102) connected to an anchor assembly (114), in particular an anchor assembly (114) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the anchor assembly (114) comprises at least one energy absorber (126) having at least one elongate absorber element (130) at least indirectly connectable to a substructure (106) and / or a fixation means (124) at a first end (118) of the energy absorber (126), and wherein in case of a fall event the absorber element (130) and at least one reinforcing and / or centering element (148) are moved relative to each other, characterized in that the movement between the absorber element (130) and the reinforcing and / or centering element (148) along a longitudinal axis of the absorber element (130) is prevented in at least one direction by at least one brake system (153, 153’) as long as a first force acting on the absorber element (130) and / or the reinforcing and / or centering element (148) remains below a first threshold.

32. Method according to claim 31, wherein a first end (132) of the absorber element (130) reaches through at least one aperture (149) within the reinforcing and / or centering element (148) and the brake system (153, 153’) comprises at least one blockage element (154, 154’).

33. Method according to claim 32, wherein the absorber element (130) comprises at least partly the blockage element (154) and / or the blockage element has at least one outer dimension providing a form fit with the aperture in case the first force is below the first threshold.

34. Method according to claim 32 or 33, wherein in case the first force exceeds the first threshold the blockage element (154) and / or the reinforcing and / or centering element (148) is / are, optionally permanently, deformed, broken, and / or deflected.

35. Method according to one of the claims 31 to 34, wherein the first force is acting on the reinforcing and / or centering element (148) via at least one link element, at least one guide element (138) and / or at least one first connection element (122), wherein optionally the reinforcing and / or centering element (148) is at least indirectly connected to the link element, to the guide element (138) and / or the first connection element (122).

36. Method according to claim 35, wherein the absorber element (130) extends through at least one opening (144) within the guide element (138) and in case the first force exceeds the first threshold the guide element (138) travels along the absorber element (130), wherein optionally during a travel of the guide element (138) the absorber element (130) is deformed, optionally elastically, plastically and / or permanently deformed.

37. Method according to claim 35 or 36, wherein the travel of the guide element (138) along the absorber element (130) is restricted by at least one stop element (136), optionally at least partly comprised by and / or connected to the absorber element (130).

38. Method according to one of the claims 31 to 37, wherein at least one housing (116) at least partly surrounding the energy absorber (126), comprises and / or is connected to at least one indicator element (128), wherein the indicator element (128) permanently changes at least one of its characteristics when the energy absorber (126) and / or housing (116) is deflected by a second force, inparticular the first force, exceeding a second threshold, in particular the first threshold.

39. Method according to claim 38, wherein, when a force above the second threshold is acting of the housing (116) and / or the energy absorber (126), at least one energy dissipation element, in particular a strut element, of the indicator element and / or a tab element (128), in particular extending from the housing (116) into a second direction opposite the energy absorber (126) breaks and / or is permanently deformed.

Images