Universal Continuous Belay System With Minimal Moving Parts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current continuous belay systems are complex, prone to breakage, and require frequent inspections, often lacking smooth transitions and efficient safety features, which complicates operations and increases staffing needs.
Innovation Solution
A universal continuous belay system with minimal moving parts, featuring a single continuous cable web, smooth engagement mechanisms, and integrated safety features like quick-wear inspection lines and pins to ensure component integrity, allowing for easy assembly, customization, and reduced inspection time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing continuous belay systems are used, then safety function is provided, but device complexity increases and reliability decreases due to many moving parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes complex locking mechanisms and moving parts from the belay system, extracting only the essential safety function. The engagement hook is designed to automatically engage with the cable web through simple geometric interference, eliminating the need for complex mechanical locks while maintaining safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is divided into simple, modular components: engagement hooks, cable web segments, and anchor points. Each component performs a single, well-defined function, making the overall system less complex while maintaining comprehensive safety coverage through the continuous cable web.
2Reliability
If existing continuous belay systems are used, then safety function is provided, but loss of time increases due to frequent inspections
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates self-indicating features where the state of components (engaged/disengaged, worn, damaged) is automatically visible through the design itself. The engagement hook's position and the cable web's continuity provide immediate visual feedback, eliminating the need for frequent manual inspections while maintaining safety.
3Reliability
If existing continuous belay systems are used, then safety function is provided, but ease of operation decreases due to lack of smooth transitions
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement hook and cable web interface is designed with curved surfaces that guide smooth transitions. The hook's rounded profile allows it to glide along the cable web without catching on sharp edges, providing smooth transitions between anchor points while maintaining secure engagement for safety.
4Reliability
If existing continuous belay systems are used, then safety function is provided, but productivity decreases due to increased staffing needs
Solution Approach 1:
The system's self-indicating design and automatic engagement features reduce the need for supervisory staff. The continuous cable web with visible engagement points allows operators to monitor multiple users simultaneously without requiring additional safety personnel, improving operational efficiency while maintaining comprehensive safety coverage.
Data Source
AI summary
A fall protection system that is easy to assemble, up to international safety standards, and allows fluid progression. The system includes an at least engagement hook, an at least one bifurcating plate, an at least one cable tensioning anchor, and an at least one T-shaped anchor plate. The engagement hook includes a C-shaped body, a first stud, and a second stud. The first stud and the second stud are integrated through the C-shaped body, on either side of an interlocking gap of the C-shaped body. The user is attached to the engagement hook by a tether attachment hole of the C-shaped body. The bifurcating plate includes a cross-shaped body and a plurality of third studs. Each of the third studs is integrated through a corresponding leg of the cross-shaped body. The bifurcating plate, the cable tensioning anchor, and the T-shaped anchor plate are tethered by a system of cables.