Elastic Hook Fall Arrest Shutter for Logistics Modules

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for alternative solutions to attach a fall arrest shutter to a side panel of a logistics module in a removable manner using an elastic band, as existing solutions may not provide sufficient flexibility and ease of use.

Innovation Solution

A fall arrest shutter for a logistics module comprising a flexible sheet, a hook device connected to the sheet via an elastic band, and a stopper element that engages when the band is stretched, allowing for secure attachment and removal from uprights on the module.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a fall arrest shutter is attached using a traditional rigid fixing mechanism, then the attachment strength and reliability are improved, but the ease of operation for removable attachment and the adaptability to different logistics module configurations deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment strengthVSAvoidremovable attachment ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing rigid fixing mechanisms with an elastic band that can dynamically adapt its length and tension. The elastic band stretches and contracts based on the distance between uprights and the force applied during attachment, enabling easy removable attachment while maintaining secure holding when attached. This dynamic flexibility resolves the contradiction between strong attachment and ease of removal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes parameter changes by employing an elastic band whose physical parameters (length, tension, elasticity) can change based on operational needs. The band's elastic properties allow it to accommodate varying distances between uprights on different logistics module configurations while maintaining sufficient attachment strength. This parameter adaptability enables both reliable attachment and ease of operation across different scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If an elastic band is used to attach the fall arrest shutter, then the ease of operation and adaptability are improved, but the attachment strength and reliability may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility across configurationsVSAvoidattachment strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the elastic band with appropriate elastic coefficients and pre-tension characteristics before use. The band is designed with specific elastic properties that ensure sufficient attachment strength is maintained even when stretched across varying distances. This preliminary design of the elastic band's mechanical properties ensures that adaptability does not compromise reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs composite materials by combining the elastic band with a hook device and stopper element. The elastic band provides flexibility and adaptability, while the rigid hook and stopper components provide reliable mechanical engagement and prevent detachment. This composite approach combines the advantages of elastic materials with rigid fastening elements to achieve both adaptability and reliable attachment strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

3Adaptability or versatility

If the elastic band is made longer to increase flexibility, then the adaptability to different configurations is improved, but the control over tension and the effectiveness in preventing falls may worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveflexibilityVSAvoidfall prevention effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a stopper element as an intermediary component between the elastic band and the upright. The stopper prevents the elastic band from extending beyond a certain length, thereby maintaining sufficient tension even when the band is relatively long. This intermediary element ensures that the band's length does not compromise its ability to provide effective fall prevention, while still allowing adequate flexibility for different configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies preliminary anti-action by designing the elastic band with inherent elastic resistance that counteracts excessive extension. The band's elastic properties create a restoring force that prevents over-stretching, ensuring that sufficient tension is maintained to prevent falls. This built-in anti-action mechanism allows the band to be longer and more flexible without compromising fall prevention effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

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

The solution enables easy and secure attachment and removal of the fall arrest shutter, ensuring it remains taut and effective in preventing falls, while maintaining flexibility and ease of use across various logistics module configurations.

Implementation Method 1

a hook device (106), an elastic band (105) through which the hook device (106) is connected to the flexible sheet (101)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3625107B1Antifall guard for a logistics module
Publication Date: 2020.12.16 YTHALES INVEST
  • EP3625107B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3625107B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3625107B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

The invention relates to a fall-prevention panel for a logistics module, comprising a flexible sheet (101) and a hook device (106), said hook device (106) being connected to the flexible sheet (101) by means of an elastic band (105). A stop member (104) is attached to the flexible sheet (101) such that, when the elastic band (105) is stretched, an element (108) of the hook device (106) abuts the stop member (104).