Gravity-Blocking Fall Arrest Line Receptacle for Correct Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fall arrest devices do not effectively prevent incorrect installation, which can compromise their functionality and safety during falls.
Innovation Solution
A fall arrest device with a line receptacle and an obstruction member that moves based on gravity to block the receptacle if installed in the wrong direction, ensuring the line is inserted correctly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If no obstruction member is provided, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of correct installation is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The obstruction member is pre-configured in the device to automatically detect and prevent incorrect installation before the device can be used. By having the obstruction member ready in place, the system performs the verification action in advance, ensuring that only correct installations proceed to the functional stage.
Solution Approach 2:
The obstruction member automatically performs the installation verification function without requiring external intervention or additional components. The gravity-dependent movement of the obstruction member itself provides the blocking action, making the system self-checking and self-correcting for incorrect orientations.
2Ease of operation
If an obstruction member is added, then the ease of operation is improved by preventing wrong installation, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The obstruction member autonomously performs the installation guidance function by utilizing gravity to move into the blocking position when the device is incorrectly oriented. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for complex control systems, sensors, or additional actuation mechanisms, thereby maintaining operational simplicity while enhancing user guidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The obstruction member transitions from a static component to a dynamic one that automatically repositions based on gravitational forces. This dynamic behavior allows the obstruction member to adapt its position according to the device orientation, providing active prevention of incorrect installation without requiring external control systems.
3Reliability
If the obstruction member blocks the receptacle in wrong orientation, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of manufacture decreases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The obstruction member serves multiple functions: it acts as a blocking element to prevent incorrect installation, provides visual or tactile feedback about proper orientation, and integrates with the existing receptacle structure. By combining these functions into a single component, the design avoids the need for separate verification mechanisms, reducing overall manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The obstruction member is integrated with the receptacle structure, merging the blocking function with the existing installation interface. This integration eliminates the need for separate blocking components or complex assembly procedures, allowing the obstruction feature to be manufactured as part of the receptacle itself or as a closely coupled sub-assembly.
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
Prevents incorrect installation by physically blocking the receptacle when the device is mounted improperly, enhancing safety by ensuring proper alignment and functionality during falls.
Implementation Method 1
an obstruction member (30) configured for moving relative to the line receptacle (10) based on the influence of gravity between an obstruction position obstructing the line receptacle (10) and an open position
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~4B
Figure 5A~5B
AI summary
The invention relates to a fall arrest device (2) for attachment to a line (1), comprising a body (4) with a line receptacle (10) defining a first direction (12) by its extension and for receiving the line (1) with the first direction (12) oriented in parallel to the line (1); an obstruction member (30) configured for moving relative to the line receptacle (10) based on the influence of gravity (G) between an obstruction position obstructing the line receptacle (10) and an open position as a function of the first direction (12) oriented against the gravity (G) or following the gravity (G); and an arrest mechanism (40) with a coupling member (42) for coupling to a user and with an arrest member (44) for arresting the line in the line receptacle (10) in case of a fall of the user along the line (1); wherein the obstruction member (30) has a recess (32) configured for engaging with the line (1) in the obstruction position.