Sliding Anchorage Assembly With Spreader Ramps for Even Load Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing anchorage assemblies for overhead applications in strut channels lack efficient mechanisms for secure installation and even load distribution, leading to potential instability and safety concerns when used with self-retracting lifelines or other safety equipment.
Innovation Solution
The anchorage assembly comprises first and second plates that are slidably movable relative to each other, with a spreader ramp on the first plate causing the upper ends to spread apart when moved, ensuring secure engagement with the strut channel holders and even load distribution by positioning the upper heads at the same vertical height, thereby stabilizing the assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional anchorage assemblies are used without spreader ramps, then the structure is simpler, but load distribution is uneven and stability is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The anchorage assembly is divided into multiple plates (first plate, second plate, third plate) that can move independently relative to each other. Each plate can be positioned and locked at specific heights, allowing independent adjustment and even load distribution across multiple attachment points, thereby improving reliability without requiring a monolithic complex structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The spreader ramps are pre-positioned on the plates at specific angles and locations. When the plates are inserted into the strut channel, the ramps automatically engage with the channel walls and spread the plates apart to predetermined positions, ensuring proper load distribution and stability before the final locking action occurs.
2Reliability
If plates are fixed in position, then installation is simpler, but load distribution and stability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The anchorage assembly transitions from a static fixed structure to a dynamic adjustable system. The plates are designed to be movable during installation, allowing workers to adjust their positions vertically along the strut channel. Once positioned, the plates can be locked in place, providing both ease of adjustment and operational stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The spreader ramps are designed to automatically engage and spread the plates apart when inserted into the strut channel, without requiring additional tools or manual adjustment mechanisms. The geometry of the ramps and channel walls work together to self-position the plates at the correct spacing, simplifying the installation process while ensuring proper load distribution.
3Reliability
If upper heads are at different vertical heights, then installation is easier, but load distribution is uneven
Solution Approach 1:
The anchorage assembly is designed to position all upper heads (attachment points) at the same vertical height, creating an equipotential configuration. This is achieved through the coordinated movement of multiple plates along the vertical strut channel, ensuring that each plate's upper head reaches the same elevation level, thereby distributing loads evenly across all attachment points.
Solution Approach 2:
While the final position requires symmetry (equal heights), the mechanism achieves this through asymmetric individual plate movements. Each plate can travel a different distance vertically before being locked, and the spreader ramps engage at different positions, but the coordinated action results in all upper heads reaching the same vertical level, distributing the load symmetrically.
Data Source
AI summary
An anchorage assembly including first and second plates that are slidably movable relative to each other, each plate comprising an upper head with an outwardly-extending flange, and the first plate including at least one spreader ramp positioned in an upper portion of the first plate.