Climbing Harness Connector with Segmented Rings for Rope Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing climbing harnesses with connectors hinder efficient use of rope progression and safety accessories due to the complexity of switching between devices, leading to difficulties in rope movements and interference from non-used accessories.
Innovation Solution
A harness with a connector system featuring a first openable ring and a second fixed ring, where the second ring is non-openable and formed by a closure element, allowing for better distribution of forces and easier attachment of rope blockers or lanyards, with anti-rotation means to prevent screw stress and facilitate secure attachment points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple rope progression accessories are mounted on the connector, then the climber can quickly switch between devices, but the rope movements are hindered by accessories not in use and the rope lock interferes with the descender functioning
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two separate rings: a first ring for mounting progression accessories and a second ring for rope passage. This segmentation allows the rope to move freely through the second ring while accessories are mounted on the first ring, eliminating interference between rope movement and mounted devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The first ring acts as an intermediary structure between the connector body and the rope. Accessories are mounted on the first ring, which can rotate independently, allowing the rope to pass through the second ring without being blocked by accessories mounted on the first ring.
2Device complexity
If a single ring connector is used to attach progression accessories, then the structure is simple, but the force distribution is concentrated and the attachment points are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The single ring is segmented into two distinct rings with different functions. The first ring serves as a mounting platform for accessories while the second ring handles rope passage, distributing forces across two separate structures rather than concentrating all forces on a single ring.
Solution Approach 2:
The two rings are arranged in different spatial orientations, creating a three-dimensional force distribution system. This allows forces to be distributed across multiple attachment points and directions, improving overall force management while maintaining structural simplicity.
3Ease of operation
If the connector uses a removable rod fixed by screw to open the ring, then the ring can be opened for accessory attachment, but the screw creates rotation stress and the opening mechanism is complex
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a screw to open the ring, the design uses a push-button mechanism that releases a locking element. The button is pushed to release the lock, allowing the ring to open, and springs automatically return the button to its locked position when released, inverting the traditional screw-operated opening mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The push-button mechanism incorporates springs that automatically return the button to its locked position after opening. This self-returning mechanism eliminates the need for complex manual operation to close and lock the ring, reducing operational complexity while maintaining ease of opening.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a harness (1) comprising a belt (2) and leg loops (3) connected by a connector (4) forming a ventral suspension point. The connector (4) defines two separate rings (20, 30). The first ring (20) is openable and connects the belt (2) to the leg loops (3). The two rings (20, 30) are fixed one above the other. The first ring (20) and the second ring (30) have, respectively, a first median longitudinal plane and a second median longitudinal plane, the first median longitudinal plane being perpendicular to the second median longitudinal plane. The connector (4) comprises a body (5) and a fastening element (6) removably mounted relative to the body (5) to form the first ring (20). At least one fastening screw (7) secures the fastening element (6) to the body (5).