Self-securing via ferrata device with automatic locking mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing via ferrata sets and self-belay devices are prone to accidents due to human error, particularly among inexperienced users, as they can be improperly handled or detached, leading to unsecured situations and potential falls.
Innovation Solution
A self-belay device with a stop element that features a recess closable by a barrier, unlockable by an unlocking element and lockable by a locking element, ensuring the stop element cannot be removed without proper attachment to a secure point, using a connecting piece that can only be detached by destroying it, and incorporating a locking mechanism that activates only after secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional via ferrata sets with multiple carabiners and connecting pieces are used, then the device can be detached or improperly handled by inexperienced users, but this increases the risk of accidental detachment and falls
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into functionally independent components: a stop element with integrated locking mechanism, an unlocking element connected to the securing means, and a connecting piece. This segmentation allows the locking function to be automatically activated while keeping the unlocking function separately controllable, preventing accidental detachment while maintaining ease of use.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism activates automatically when the stop element is attached to the securing means, without requiring user intervention. The system self-secures by detecting the attachment and engaging the barrier, eliminating the need for inexperienced users to manually lock the device, thus ensuring reliability while maintaining simplicity.
2Reliability
If multiple attachment elements and connecting pieces are used, then the device can be improperly handled or simultaneously detached, but this increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged into the stop element itself, integrating the barrier and locking function into a single component rather than using separate locking devices. The unlocking element is connected directly to the securing means, eliminating the need for multiple independent attachment elements and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining prevention of simultaneous detachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The stop element serves multiple functions: it acts as the attachment point, contains the locking mechanism with barrier, and provides the interface for the unlocking element. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the device while ensuring reliable prevention of accidental detachment.
3Reliability
If carabiners with locking devices are used, then accidental opening can be prevented, but the device becomes more complex and harder to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a conventional carabiner where the gate can accidentally open, the design inverts the approach by using a barrier that blocks the recess from the inside. The barrier is spring-loaded or elastically biased to automatically engage, preventing accidental opening while using simpler manufacturing processes compared to complex carabiner locking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting piece is designed as a simple, inexpensive component that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. This allows the use of a straightforward locking mechanism without complex moving parts, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining reliability during the service life of the connecting piece.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1h
Figure 2a~2h
Figure 2i~2p
AI summary
A self-securing device, comprising a stop element (K) that can be suspended on a securing means (2, 2'), said element being connectable to a person (P) to be secured by way of a connection element (6), is characterized for the purpose of ease of handling by the combination of the following characteristics: - the stop element (K) comprises a cut-out section (A) that can be closed by way of a barrier (8) for holding the securing element (2, 2), - the barrier can be unlocked by way of an unlocking element (26), thereby releasing the cut-out section (A) – and the barrier can also be locked by way of a locking element (5), thereby closing the cut-out section (A), - wherein the unlocking element (26) and the locking element (5) are fastened directly or indirectly by and/or on the securing means (2, 2') separately from one another and – the unlocking element (26) can be moved toward the stop element (K) suspended in/on the securing means (2, 2') and can be fastened thereto, thereby releasing the cut-out section (A), and the stop element (K) with the unlocking element (26) fastened thereto can only be moved toward the locking element (5) in/on the securing means (2, 2') in the suspended state, - wherein the locking process makes the fastening of the unlocking element (26) on the stop element (K) removable.