Removable Step Assembly with Expansion Anchor for Utility Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional techniques for fall arrest in climbing utility towers and poles often fail to support loads of 5,000 pounds or greater and do not provide a removable, easily installable step with reliable fall arrest capability.
Innovation Solution
A step assembly comprising a step unit, leg holder, and expansion anchor, where the expansion anchor includes a bolt, fin unit, and wedge unit that securely attaches to the utility structure, allowing for reliable fall arrest and easy detachment for removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional independent components (carabiner, climbing clip, hook) are used to couple the deceleration device to the step rung, then the fall arrest system can be assembled, but the load-bearing capacity of 5,000 pounds or greater cannot be reliably supported
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the step rung with an integrated expansion anchor and attachment mechanism into a single unified component. The expansion anchor integrates the mounting function with the step structure, while the attachment mechanism (hook or clip) is built-in, eliminating the need for separate independent components and ensuring the entire assembly can reliably support 5,000 pounds or greater.
Solution Approach 2:
The step assembly serves multiple functions: it provides a climbing step, integrates fall arrest capability through built-in attachment mechanisms, and ensures load-bearing capacity through the expansion anchor system. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate fall arrest components and ensures reliable performance.
2Reliability
If step rungs are permanently installed with the utility structure, then fall arrest capability is provided, but the steps cannot be easily removed or relocated
Solution Approach 1:
The step assembly is designed as a segmented, modular unit that can be independently installed and removed. The expansion anchor provides secure mounting when installed, but the entire step assembly can be easily detached and relocated to different positions or structures as needed, providing both reliability and ease of operation.
3Ease of operation
If conventional step rungs are installed in utility structures, then climbing access is provided, but the installation process is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The expansion anchor is pre-assembled with the step rung and attachment mechanisms before installation. This preliminary assembly simplifies the installation process, as the entire step assembly can be installed as a single unit by simply inserting the expansion anchor into the utility structure, significantly reducing installation time and complexity.
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 step assembly effectively supports loads of 5,000 pounds or greater and allows for easy installation and removal, providing a secure fall arrest mechanism while ensuring the structure can sustain heavy loads during climbing.
Implementation Method 1
an expansion anchor (300) configured to expand within a utility structure
Implementation Method 2
a wedge unit (300-3) configured to apply a mechanical force to expand the fin unit (300-2)
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a step assembly with fall arrest capability for use in climbing a utility structure, including a removable step unit. The step assembly comprises the step unit including two leg members, a leg holder including two cylinders, and an expansion anchor including multiple fins. The combination of the leg holder and the expansion anchor is configured to be secured with the utility structure based on bending the fins at the shoulder sections to have the fins opened inside the utility structure while the leg holder is in contact with and outside the utility structure. The step unit can be detachably attached to the secured combination by inserting the two leg members through the two cylinders of the leg holder, respectively.