Movable Anchor Assembly for Fall Arrest Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fall arrest systems require operators to frequently disconnect and reconnect the fall limiter to different anchor points, disrupting workflow and limiting movement, especially when exiting the working area or moving laterally across the platform.
Innovation Solution
A movable anchor assembly with a pair of brackets and a cable system that allows the fall limiter to be coupled to a sliding anchor point along a cable, enabling free movement without the need for manual reconnection, and can be easily installed on various platforms as a retrofit kit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the fall limiter is connected to fixed anchor points on the platform, then the operator is protected from falling, but the operator must frequently disconnect and reconnect the fall limiter when moving laterally or exiting the working area, disrupting workflow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing fixed anchor points with a movable anchor assembly that slides along a cable. The anchor can dynamically reposition itself as the operator moves laterally across the platform or exits the working area, eliminating the need to disconnect and reconnect the fall limiter. This dynamic positioning maintains continuous fall protection while allowing uninterrupted workflow.
2Ease of operation
If the fall limiter is connected to fixed anchor points, then the system structure is simple, but the operator's lateral movement is limited and requires manual reconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cable as an intermediary element that connects fixed brackets to the movable anchor. The cable allows the anchor to move freely along the horizontal support while maintaining tension and connection to the platform structure. This intermediary mechanism enables operator movement freedom without requiring complex active control systems, achieving ease of operation with moderate device complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fixed anchor points are provided for lateral movement, then the operator can move more freely, but the system becomes more complex and requires frequent manual reconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the universality principle by designing a single movable anchor assembly that can assume multiple positions along the cable, replacing the need for multiple fixed anchor points. The anchor serves multiple functions: it provides fall protection, enables lateral movement, and allows exiting the working area, all through a single repositionable component rather than multiple fixed installations.
Data Source
AI summary
A fall arrest system for use with a platform includes a first bracket and a second bracket configured to be coupled to the platform, a horizontal support coupled to the first bracket and the second bracket, and a harness adapter slidably coupled to the horizontal support and configured to be coupled to a harness worn by an operator. The first bracket defines a recess configured to receive a guardrail of the platform when the first bracket is coupled to the platform. The harness adapter is repositionable along a length of the horizontal support.