Lifeline Spring System Tension Indication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lifeline systems lack a reliable method to indicate tension and are complex and costly due to separate shock absorbing and tensioning units, with insufficient length variation in spring systems for accurate tension indication.
Innovation Solution
A device for lifelines featuring a spring system with a minimum 3 mm length variation at 2 kN force, capable of elastic behavior up to 7 kN, integrated with a display system for tension indication and a threaded coupling allowing controlled length adjustment, simplifying manufacturing, installation, and use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spring system with very small length variation (less than 3 mm) is used in the shock absorbing element, then the shock absorbing function is achieved, but the tension indication capability is insufficient due to negligible length variation
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two distinct functional modules: a shock absorbing element with a first spring system for energy dissipation, and a tensioning element with a second spring system for tension indication. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized for its specific function without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
A threaded coupling system acts as an intermediary mechanism between the shock absorbing element and the tensioning element. This coupling system enables controlled length adjustment of the tensioning element, providing a mechanical interface that translates small spring movements into measurable length variations for tension indication.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate shock absorbing and tensioning units are used, then both functions are achieved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The shock absorbing element and tensioning element are merged into a single integrated device with a unified structure. Both elements share common components such as the main body, mounting interfaces, and the threaded coupling system, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining dual functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed as a multifunctional unit where the same structural components serve multiple purposes. The threaded coupling system, for example, serves both as a connection mechanism and as a length adjustment mechanism for tension indication, eliminating the need for separate dedicated components.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the spring system is mechanically bound and cannot rotate or adjust length, then structural stability is maintained, but the ability to vary length for tension indication is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The tensioning element incorporates a threaded coupling system that enables controlled rotational movement and length adjustment. This dynamic mechanism allows the tensioning element to vary its length in a controlled manner for tension indication, while the shock absorbing element maintains its structural stability through rigid mechanical binding.
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 device provides a compact, cost-effective, and safe solution that acts as both a shock absorber and tension indicator, offering clear tension feedback and efficient installation, enhancing safety and usability.
Implementation Method 1
the spring system (typically comprising two or three springs) of the shock absorbing element is sized so that, when subjected to operating tension (about 1 to about 3 kN, e.g. 2 kN), it undergoes an extremely small (typically less than 3 mm) variation of total length with respect to the state of complete release (absence of forces)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
A device (6) for a lifeline (1), the device comprising a main body (7) having a first portion (8) and a second portion (9), opposed to the first one; a first secondary body (10) coupled to said main body (7) by placing therebetween a spring system (12) and intended to be hooked to an element (5) of the lifeline on the side of the first portion (8); a second secondary body (11) bound to the main body and intended to be hooked to an additional element (2) of the lifeline on the side of the second portion (9); wherein the spring system, when subjected to a force of 2 kN, has a total length differing from the total length thereof without applied forces of at least 3 mm.