Load Indicator for Horizontal Lifeline Tension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing horizontal lifeline systems face challenges in ensuring adequate tension in the lifeline and in the durability of energy absorbers, which are crucial for effective fall protection, as the fabric bags used for packaging energy absorbers are prone to wear and tear, and determining sufficient tension is not straightforward.
Innovation Solution
A load indicator system is introduced that includes a first and second connector, a fastener, and a spring mechanism, allowing a moveable member to spin freely when tension reaches a predetermined level, indicating sufficient tension, and a cover for the energy absorber made of interlocking cover pieces that deploy upon force application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a fabric bag is used to package the energy absorber, then the packaging is simple and cost-effective, but the fabric bag is susceptible to wear and tear which can expose the webbing to wear and tear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the fabric bag with a composite hard shell structure made of rigid materials that provide superior protection against wear and tear while maintaining cost-effectiveness and ease of manufacture
Solution Approach 2:
The hard shell structure is designed to withstand impact forces and wear before they can reach the energy absorber webbing, providing beforehand protection against potential damage
2Reliability
If sufficient tension is applied to the horizontal lifeline to prevent sagging, then the system reliability is improved, but it becomes difficult to determine whether sufficient tension has been applied
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a tension indicator mechanism that changes color or visual appearance when the predetermined tension threshold is reached, making it easy to detect and measure whether sufficient tension has been applied to the horizontal lifeline
Solution Approach 2:
The load indicator device automatically indicates when sufficient tension is applied through its mechanical spring and indicator mechanisms, eliminating the need for external measurement tools or complex procedures
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 load indicator provides a clear indication of adequate tension in the horizontal lifeline, while the energy absorber's cover ensures reliable deployment, enhancing both the durability and functionality of the system.
Implementation Method 1
a first spring structured to apply bias to the fastener to pull the first and second connectors together; and a moveable member disposed between the first and second connectors and around the fastener, wherein when the tension across the load indicator is at or above a predetermined tension level, the first spring compresses allowing the moveable member to spin freely about the fastener
Data Source
AI summary
A load indicator includes a first connector, a second connector arranged such that pulling the first connector and the second connector in opposite directions applies tension across the load indicator, a fastener structured to attach the first connector to the second connector, a first spring structured to apply bias to the fastener to pull the first and second connectors together, and a moveable member disposed between the first and second connectors and around the fastener. When the tension across the load indicator is at or above a predetermined tension level, the first spring compresses allowing the moveable member to spin freely about the fastener. When the tension across the load indicator is below the predetermined tension level, the first spring pulls the first and second connectors together such that the moveable member cannot spin freely about the fastener.