Carabiner Divider Structure for Secure Multi-Point Fall Arrest
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fall arrest systems require complex and cumbersome carabiner mechanisms for connecting users to multiple anchor points, which can be difficult to operate and increase the risk of accidental disconnection during use.
Innovation Solution
A carabiner divider that simplifies the connection process by allowing swiveling and sliding of connection portions, featuring a C-shaped clip member for secure attachment to the carabiner frame, preventing accidental gate opening or sliding, and defining separate areas for fall arrest devices and harness components, facilitating easy attachment and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex multi-stage gate opening mechanism is used, then the carabiner provides enhanced security against accidental opening, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to multiple twisting and sliding steps required
Solution Approach 1:
The gate opening mechanism is segmented into distinct functional zones: a first zone requiring gate body rotation and a second zone requiring lateral movement. This segmentation allows each zone to perform a specific function (preventing accidental opening vs. enabling intentional opening) while maintaining overall system security and usability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connection points and divider components are added to connect to multiple anchor points, then the adaptability improves for multi-point attachment, but the device complexity increases with additional limbs and connection portions
Solution Approach 1:
The carabiner is designed with multiple connection portions (first, second, third, and fourth connection portions) that can each independently connect to different anchor points or fall arrest devices. This multi-functionality allows a single carabiner structure to serve multiple attachment purposes, enhancing adaptability while managing complexity through standardized connection interfaces.
3Ease of operation
If the gate is made easily openable with minimal steps, then the ease of operation improves, but the reliability deteriorates due to increased risk of accidental disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The carabiner requires preliminary intentional actions (rotation followed by lateral movement) before the gate can be opened. This preliminary action sequence ensures that accidental openings are prevented while still allowing intentional opening when the user deliberately performs the required steps, thus maintaining both security and usability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A divider (10) for a carabiner (12) in a fall arrest system (14), the carabiner (12) having a frame (32); and an openable gate (34) configured to be moved between an open position and a closed position, the divider (10) comprising a body (50) having: (i) a central body portion (52); and (ii) a plurality of connection portions (54) extending from the central body portion (52) and configured to attach the divider (10) to at least a portion of the frame (32) of the carabiner (10), wherein the plurality of connection portions (54) are spaced and divide the carabiner (12) into a plurality of areas (56) for connection of at least one component (18, 20) of the harness arrangement (16) and at least one fall arrest device (22).