Ascender Double Lock Pivot Securing Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ascender devices for belaying on fixed ropes are complex to handle and fit, and lack sufficient safety features for quick and secure attachment and detachment.
Innovation Solution
The ascender device incorporates a double lock mechanism with unlocking tabs and a connecting arm, allowing for easy insertion and secure locking of the pivot in recesses, enabling quick fitting and enhanced safety through a combination of torsion springs and a slot for the connecting arm's movement between active and inactive positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single lock mechanism is used to secure the pivot in recesses, then the device structure is simpler, but the safety and reliability of pivot securing is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is divided into two independent locks (first lock and second lock), each securing one end of the pivot in its respective recess. This segmentation provides redundant security - if one lock fails, the other still secures the pivot. Each lock can be independently operated via its unlocking tab, allowing for controlled release while maintaining overall system reliability through distributed security points.
2Ease of operation
If the actuating lever remains connected to the body via flexible link after pin removal, then the ascender can be fitted or removed at any point, but the handling and fitting operation becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The pin is extracted as a separate, removable component from the connecting mechanism. When the pin is removed, the actuating lever becomes completely detached from the body, allowing the ascender to be easily fitted or removed at any point on the rope. The flexible link remains connected to both the actuating lever and body, providing continuous attachment capability while the pin serves as the sole restraint that can be quickly released for operation.
3Productivity
If a double lock mechanism with unlocking tabs is used, then the pivot can be quickly and securely locked and unlocked, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each lock is integrated with its corresponding recess to form a unified locking assembly. The first lock is combined with the first recess and first pin, while the second lock is combined with the second recess and second pin. This merging reduces the number of separate components and assembly steps, making manufacturing more efficient while maintaining the double-lock security system with independent unlocking tabs for rapid operation.
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
This design simplifies the handling and fitting process while ensuring safety by allowing quick and secure attachment and detachment, facilitating easier rope insertion and secure locking in the active position, thereby improving user safety and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
Each lock is provided with an unlocking tab designed to make it pivot to a released position against the return force of the torsion springs
Data Source
AI summary
An ascender device for belaying on a fixed rope, comprising a body with a trough, and an actuating lever having a pivot, a cam for clamping the rope, and a hole for attaching a safety means. A connecting arm with a button-hole is articulated between the pivot and body to move the actuating lever between an inactive position facilitating insertion of the rope in the trough and an active position wherein the ends of the pivot are housed in aligned recesses acting as bearings. A double lock comprises a first lock and a second lock to secure the two opposite ends of the pivot in the recesses, each lock being associated with an unlocking tab for releasing same.