Passive Fall Protection Web Integrated into Building Structure
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fall protection systems for construction workers, such as nets and tethers, are either labor-intensive and costly to install and remove or not consistently used, leaving workers at risk of falls from elevated heights, and require proactive worker involvement or enforcement to be effective.
Innovation Solution
A passive fall protection system comprising an open-mesh web supported by a framework and held in place by a perimeter band, which can be integrated into the building structure and supported by supplemental bands or walls, providing continuous protection without requiring worker action.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a net is installed as a passive fall protection system, then worker protection is provided, but installation and removal is labor intensive and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the fall protection net with the building's permanent structural framework. The net is integrated into the building structure itself, merging two separate functions (temporary protection and permanent structure) into a unified system that provides ongoing protection without requiring repeated installation and removal operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The fall protection system is installed in advance as part of the building construction process, before workers need protection. The net is permanently positioned and secured to the framework, so protection is already in place when workers arrive, eliminating the need for last-minute installation.
2Reliability
If netting is used for fall protection, then worker safety is improved, but the system requires frequent installation and removal which increases cost and time
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of installing complete netting systems only when absolutely necessary, the patent implements permanent fall protection infrastructure that provides continuous protection throughout the building's lifecycle. This excessive action of providing always-available protection eliminates the need for repeated installation cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The building framework serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the building and simultaneously serves as the mounting structure for fall protection nets. This multi-functional design allows the same structural elements to fulfill both construction and safety roles, eliminating separate installation processes.
3Reliability
If tethers are required for worker safety, then some protection is provided, but worker compliance is inconsistent and enforcement is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides passive protection that works automatically without requiring worker action. The permanent net infrastructure serves itself by being always in place and ready to catch falling workers, eliminating the need for workers to actively engage with or comply with safety protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring workers to actively protect themselves through tether use, the system inverts the approach by providing passive protection that protects workers regardless of their actions. The protection system becomes the active agent rather than relying on worker compliance.
Data Source
AI summary
Fall protection systems, methods of installing such systems, and buildings embodying such systems. Such fall protection system extends from structure elements of the building about an encompassed space into which there is risk of a person falling. An open-mesh web is supported from the structure elements and overlies, and extends across, the space. A perimeter band extends about the encompassed space. The perimeter band is secured to the building structure elements about the space and thus entraps the web between the band and the building structure elements. The web may also be supported in the space by supplemental supports, which can be crossing support bands, attached to the structure elements, or intervening e.g. walls within the space. The web is left in place and is covered by internal finish materials whereby the web is captured between internal finish materials and ceiling and/or floor members in the finished building.