Adjustable Mounting Bracket for Fall Protection Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fall protection systems for construction projects are cumbersome, require special tools and training, and are not portable or reusable, posing risks to workers and increasing costs due to complex anchoring methods and interference with work surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A portable and reusable fall protection system featuring adjustable mounting brackets and anchor points that can be secured to lower structural members without requiring workers to access the higher level, allowing for easy installation and reconfiguration to accommodate varying structural sizes and depths, eliminating the need for special tools or training.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If guardrail systems are secured to the work surface using nails, bolts or screws, then the anchoring is secure and permanent, but the installation requires substantial time and material investment, special tools, and enhanced operator skills
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket is divided into multiple components including a base portion, a vertical portion, and a guardrail interface. These segmented parts can be separately manufactured, transported, and assembled, reducing installation complexity while maintaining anchoring security through standardized connection mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket serves as an intermediary device between the structural surface and the guardrail system. It provides a standardized interface that simplifies installation by eliminating the need for workers to directly attach guardrails to structural members using complex anchoring procedures, while still ensuring secure attachment.
2Reliability
If guardrail systems are anchored in an almost permanent attachment method, then the anchoring is secure, but the transferability and re-use of components is significantly reduced or precluded
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket incorporates adjustable and detachable features that allow it to be dynamically reconfigured and reused across different locations and applications. The bracket can be removed, transported, and reinstalled on different structural members, providing both secure anchoring and component reusability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket is designed as a universal component that can be attached to various structural members and used with different guardrail configurations. This multi-functionality enables the same bracket to serve multiple purposes across different construction sites and applications, enhancing adaptability while maintaining secure attachment.
3Reliability
If fall protection systems are installed to meet OSHA requirements, then worker safety is improved, but the systems interfere with work on higher levels and require special tools and training
Solution Approach 1:
The fall protection system is segmented into modular components including mounting brackets, guardrails, and connectors. This segmentation allows the system to be installed in sections that minimize interference with work activities on higher levels, while maintaining safety requirements. Workers can access different areas without removing entire guardrail sections.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates adjustable and movable components that can be dynamically reconfigured based on work requirements. Guardrails can be temporarily removed or repositioned to allow work access, then restored when safety is needed, providing both worker safety and work accessibility without requiring special tools or extensive training.
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting bracket to be utilized in a fall protection system. The mounting bracket includes an adjustable securing means to anchor to structural members of varying sizes and an adjustable anchor point to receive and secure a post therein. The adjustable securing means includes a first bracket and a second bracket capable of being secured together in different configurations (based on different heights of the structural member) to anchor the adjustable securing means to the structural member. The adjustable anchor point is to receive the post within a defined distance from the structural member and may include one or more open-ended receiving stanchions. The adjustable anchor point is capable of securing the post in different configurations. The post includes a plurality of brackets capable of holding railings in order to create a guardrail. The posts may include other items and be utilized in other systems.