Non-Linear Tear Path Energy Absorber for Compact Fall Arrest
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing energy absorbers for fall arrest systems are bulky due to their need for long lengths to absorb sufficient energy, and there is a need for more reliable and safer alternatives.
Innovation Solution
An energy absorber with a non-linear line of weakness along its elongate member, allowing it to tear effectively without increasing size, using laser-etched grooves or perforations to enhance energy absorption and control force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a long linear line of weakness is used to increase energy absorption capacity, then the energy absorption capacity is improved, but the size and bulk of the energy absorber increases
Solution Approach 1:
The line of weakness is configured as a non-linear path (curved, wavy, or zig-zag pattern) rather than a straight line. This curvature allows the tear path to be longer within the same spatial envelope, increasing the energy absorption capacity without proportionally increasing the overall size of the energy absorber component.
Solution Approach 2:
The line of weakness extends in multiple directions and dimensions rather than following a single linear path. By utilizing a two-dimensional or three-dimensional non-linear trajectory through the elongate member, the effective length of the tear path is increased without simply extending the component in one direction, thus avoiding increased bulk.
2Use of energy by moving object
If a thicker elongate member is used to absorb sufficient energy, then the energy absorption capacity is improved, but the weight and bulk of the energy absorber increases
Solution Approach 1:
By implementing a non-linear line of weakness path, the energy absorption is enhanced through increased tear path length rather than through increased material thickness. This allows the use of thinner, lighter elongate members while maintaining or improving energy absorption capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the geometric parameter of the line of weakness from linear to non-linear, which fundamentally alters the energy absorption mechanism. This parameter change enables thinner material sections to achieve the same energy absorption as thicker sections with linear tear paths, thereby reducing weight.
3Use of energy by moving object
If a non-linear line of weakness is used to increase tearable length, then the energy absorption capacity is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The non-linear line of weakness can be implemented as a series of discrete segments (such as perforations or scored lines) rather than a continuous complex curve. This segmentation simplifies the manufacturing process while still achieving the non-linear path effect that increases energy absorption capacity.
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 non-linear line of weakness increases energy absorption capacity while maintaining a thinner profile, providing improved safety and convenience by reducing bulk and cost.
Implementation Method 1
the elongate member is configured to tear along the line of weakness, thereby at least partially absorbing the energy of a user's fall
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
An energy absorber (10) for use in a fall arrest system includes an elongate member (11) having a proximal end (14), a distal end (12), and a line of weakness (15, 16) extending in a longitudinal direction (A) along at least a portion of the elongate member between the proximal end (14) and the distal end (12). The line of weakness (15, 16) is at least partially non-linear. In response to application of a predetermined force, the elongate member (11) is configured to tear along the line of weakness (15, 16), thereby at least partially absorbing energy of a user's fall.