Chain-Linked Suspension Assembly for Rapid Height Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing scaffolding suspension assemblies require lengthy and unsatisfactory adjustment processes, often involving expensive hardware like hooks and shackles, which are cumbersome and not suitable for reuse.
Innovation Solution
A suspension assembly comprising a chain linked to a sling, where adjustment is achieved by cinching a chain link using a less expensive, non-hook device, allowing easy and cost-effective height adjustment without the need for expensive hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If clamps are used to adjust sling length in the field, then length adjustability is achieved, but the adjustment process takes a long time and creates kinks in the cable making re-use unsatisfactory
Solution Approach 1:
The sling is divided into multiple discrete sections or segments that can be independently adjusted. Instead of continuously adjusting the entire sling length, the system segments the adjustment into discrete units that can be quickly configured by adding or removing sections, significantly reducing adjustment time while avoiding damage to the cable material.
2Strength
If hooks and shackles are used for suspension, then strong attachment is achieved, but the hardware is expensive and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts or removes the expensive hook and shackle components from the suspension system. Instead of using these complex hardware elements, the invention employs a simplified attachment mechanism that achieves equivalent or superior strength without the need for traditional hooks and shackles, thereby reducing cost and complexity while maintaining attachment integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension assembly uses a universal attachment mechanism that can function both as a secure anchor point and as an adjustable connection element. This multi-functional component replaces the need for separate hooks, shackles, and adjustment devices, simplifying the overall system while maintaining strong attachment capabilities across different application scenarios.
3Adaptability or versatility
If chains are used for suspension, then adjustability is achieved, but the chains are too heavy in longer lengths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of the suspension medium from heavy chain links to a lighter cable or rope construction. This parameter change maintains the adjustability function through alternative mechanisms (such as the segmented design or pulley systems) while dramatically reducing the weight, especially for longer suspension lengths where chain weight would become excessive.
Data Source
AI summary
A suspension assembly for suspending a lower structure such as a platform or platform portion from an upper structure such as ad bridge. A sling includes a cable one end of which is attachable to the upper structure and an other end of which has an eyelet formed by folding an end portion of the cable back over the cable and swaging the end portion of the cable to the cable. A chain having a plurality of links and has an end portion which is attached to the eyelet by receiving the end portion of the cable in one of the links in the end portion of the chain before the end portion of the cable is swaged to the cable. The chain has an other end portion which is attachable to the lower structure by a selected one of its links to be adjustably suspended from the upper structure.