Modular Fall Protection Device with Reel Blocks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fall protection devices for rescue situations in high heights often lack a predetermined securing point, making it difficult to secure individuals or multiple persons safely, especially when there are no suitable locking points available, and they do not allow for flexible movement.
Innovation Solution
A fall protection device with a modular system detachably attached to an aerial apparatus, such as a turnable telescopic ladder, featuring multiple ropes with reel blocks for tension control, rope brakes, and sensors for load monitoring, enabling secure attachment and movement of multiple persons without fixed locking points, along with optional supply lines and lighting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fall protection device is used without a predetermined securing point, then the device can be deployed at any location, but it becomes difficult to secure the end of the securing rope reliably
Solution Approach 1:
The aerial apparatus provides a dynamic, movable securing platform that can be positioned at any location rather than relying on fixed predetermined securing points. The module can be relocated along the aerial apparatus to adapt to different rescue scenarios while maintaining secure attachment through the reel block mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The reel block acts as an intermediary device between the securing rope and the module, providing a reliable anchoring point that moves with the module. This intermediary mechanism enables secure rope attachment without requiring fixed securing points in the environment.
2Productivity
If multiple persons are secured with individual ropes from a single point, then more persons can be protected, but the movement freedom of each person is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the securing function into multiple independent reel blocks, each handling one person's rope independently. This segmentation allows each person to move freely while the module collectively supports multiple persons through distributed reel blocks.
Solution Approach 2:
Each reel block dynamically adjusts rope length independently based on the person's movements, allowing free movement within limits while maintaining safety. The module as a whole can service multiple persons simultaneously through this dynamic, distributed architecture.
3Reliability
If the rope is kept under tension to prevent sagging, then safety is improved, but the person's free movement is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The reel block dynamically adjusts rope tension based on the person's movements and load conditions. It maintains sufficient tension to prevent excessive sagging and ensure safety, while automatically relaxing tension to allow free movement when not under load, resolving the contradiction between safety and mobility.
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
Enables secure and flexible protection of multiple persons at any height with enhanced mobility and safety, allowing for real-time load monitoring and adaptive aerial apparatus control, ensuring safe operation and operation limits.
Implementation Method 1
each reel block comprises a rope brake. Such a rope brake does not obstruct the free running of the reel block at low extension speed of the rope. However, if the rope speed is increased over a predetermined level, for example, if the secured person is falling, the rope brake stops the rope immediately
Data Source
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AI summary
Fall protection device, characterized by a module (12) with an adapter (16) for detachably attaching the module (22) at the tip of an aerial apparatus, said module comprising a plurality of ropes (36), each rope extending from an individual fall arresting device received within the module.