Anchorage Device Locking Arm Orientation Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fall-arresting devices are limited in their versatility, as they are either designed for vertical or horizontal belaying systems but not both, and lack a user-activated locking mechanism for secure operation in various orientations.
Innovation Solution
A universal anchoring device with a locking unit featuring a locking pin, eccentric part, and sliding locking plate mechanism, allowing for user-activated locking and automatic locking in different orientations, comprising a body with sliding and fixed plates and a torsion spring system for secure rope engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fall-arresting device is designed for vertical belaying systems, then it can provide secure fall arrest in vertical orientations, but it cannot be used in horizontal belaying systems
Solution Approach 1:
The anchoring device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can be used in both vertical and horizontal belaying systems. The device includes a body with a locking unit that can engage with guide rails in different orientations, allowing the same device to provide fall arrest functionality whether the safety line is vertical or horizontal, thereby eliminating the need for separate devices for different orientations
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fall-arresting device is designed for horizontal belaying systems, then it can provide secure fall arrest in horizontal orientations, but it cannot be used in vertical belaying systems
Solution Approach 1:
The anchoring device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can be used in both vertical and horizontal belaying systems. The device includes a body with a locking unit that can engage with guide rails in different orientations, allowing the same device to provide fall arrest functionality whether the safety line is vertical or horizontal, thereby eliminating the need for separate devices for different orientations
3Adaptability or versatility
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent automatic locking in horizontal orientation, then the device can be used in horizontal belaying systems, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking unit is designed with asymmetric geometry that inherently prevents engagement in horizontal orientation. The locking element and corresponding engagement feature are shaped such that when the device is in horizontal position, the locking mechanism cannot engage, allowing free movement. When the device is rotated to vertical orientation, the asymmetric shape allows the locking mechanism to engage properly, providing fall arrest functionality without requiring additional complex control mechanisms
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables secure fall arrest in both vertical and horizontal belaying systems by providing a user-activated locking mechanism that automatically adjusts to prevent falls, ensuring reliable operation across different orientations.
Implementation Method 1
a torsion spring system for secure rope engagement
Implementation Method 2
a locking unit featuring a locking pin, eccentric part, and sliding locking plate mechanism
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
Invention relates to an anchoring device provided with a body and a locking arm characterized in that the body (1) is provided with a locking unit (29) with a locking pin (32) locking the arm (18) in the open position. Preferably the locking unit (29) includes a locking pin (38) provided with a locking part (38), preferably in the form of a ring, a locking connector (34) and a locking spring (36).