Carabiner Line Connector with Sensor Coil for Coupling Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing personal fall protection systems lack effective verification methods to ensure secure coupling of line connectors, which is crucial for safety but often relies on manual checks that can be unreliable.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a line connector with a sensor coil and control unit that sends excitation signals to determine if the connector is securely coupled to a mating component, alerting users or remote units if uncoupled, thereby enhancing the integrity verification of the personal fall protection system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual checks are used to verify secure coupling of line connectors, then the system structure remains simple, but the reliability of verification is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical verification with an automated sensor-based detection system. Sensors are integrated into the line connector to automatically detect and verify secure coupling, eliminating reliance on manual checks and significantly improving verification reliability while maintaining relatively simple system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The line connector performs self-verification through integrated sensors that automatically detect coupling status. The system monitors its own state without requiring external manual intervention, ensuring continuous reliable verification while keeping the device structure compact and manageable.
2Reliability
If automated sensor-based verification is implemented, then verification reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is nested within or integrated into the line connector structure itself. By embedding the verification system within the existing connector geometry, the patent achieves automated reliable verification without proportionally increasing overall device complexity. The sensor becomes an integral part of the connector rather than an external addition.
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are used to monitor each line connector, then detection precision is improved, but the manufacturing cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is designed to be universal and multi-functional, capable of detecting various coupling statuses and potentially serving multiple monitoring purposes within the personal fall protection system. This approach allows for precise detection while reducing the need for multiple specialized sensors, thereby simplifying manufacturing and reducing costs.
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 solution provides reliable and automated verification of secure connections, reducing the risk of accidents by ensuring that all line connectors are properly coupled, thus enhancing user safety and compliance with safety standards.
Implementation Method 1
Each at least one sensor includes a coil disposed around the loop portion of the carabiner. The control unit is operable to send an excitation signal to the at least one sensor and determine whether the line connector is coupled to the mating component based on a response signal received from the at least one sensor.
Data Source
AI summary
A line connector for a personal fall protection system includes a carabiner having a loop portion that at least partially defines an opening. The opening is configured to receive a mating component of the personal fall protection system. The line connector also includes at least one sensor. Each at least one sensor includes a coil disposed around the loop portion of the carabiner. The line connector further includes a control unit coupled to the at least one sensor. The control unit is operable to send an excitation signal to the at least one sensor and determine whether the line connector is coupled to the mating component based on a response signal received from the at least one sensor.