SRL Latch Activation Using Magnetic and Eddy Current Motion Control

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing Self Retracting Lifeline (SRL) systems lack effective mechanisms to control relative speed and halt motion between members, particularly in dynamic and variable motion scenarios.

Innovation Solution

The system employs magnetic interactions, eddy current drag forces, centrifugal, and inertial forces to govern the dynamic response between members, enabling synchronized motion and halting relative motion through mechanisms like pawl-latch interactions and magnetic cogging.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional SRL systems use simple mechanical components without advanced control mechanisms, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to control relative speed and halt motion between members deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemotion control capabilityVSAvoidcontrol mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical sensing and control systems with magnetic field-based detection and eddy current braking. The magnetic sensor detects spool position and speed without mechanical contact, while eddy currents generated in the brake disc provide automatic speed control and motion halting, eliminating the need for complex mechanical governors or friction-based brakes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces magnetic fields and eddy currents as intermediary mechanisms between the spool and brake components. The magnetic field serves as an intermediary for sensing spool position and speed, while eddy currents act as an intermediary for transferring braking force without direct mechanical contact, thereby simplifying the overall control mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Manufacturing precision

If SRL systems use magnetic interactions and eddy current forces to control motion, then motion control precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemotion synchronization precisionVSAvoidsystem structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent substitutes mechanical contact-based control with magnetic field-based control for sensing and eddy current-based braking. This provides precise, contactless control of spool speed and position, achieving motion synchronization without the complexity of mechanical linkages, gears, or friction-based control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes changes in magnetic field parameters (strength, distribution) and eddy current characteristics to precisely control spool speed and position. By varying these physical parameters, the system achieves fine-tuned motion control without requiring complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

This approach provides alternative methods for controlling movement, allowing for precise synchronization and halting of relative motion, enhancing safety and control in applications like fall safety apparatuses.

Implementation Method 1

Magnetic interactions, eddy current drag forces and centrifugal and/or inertial forces may provide various mechanisms of governing movement

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic interactions: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

Magnetic interactions, eddy current drag forces and centrifugal and/or inertial forces may provide various mechanisms of governing movement

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectEddy current drag forces: Eddy Current Damping

Implementation Method 3

Magnetic interactions, eddy current drag forces and centrifugal and/or inertial forces may provide various mechanisms of governing movement

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCentrifugal forces: Centrifugal Force

Implementation Method 4

Magnetic interactions, eddy current drag forces and centrifugal and/or inertial forces may provide various mechanisms of governing movement

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInertial forces: Inertia

Data Source

PatentEP3226978B1Latch activation between elements
Publication Date: 2025.02.12 SUREWERX USA INC
  • EP3226978B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP3226978B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5
  • EP3226978B1 patent drawingFigure 6~7

AI summary

Described herein is a system, method of use and Self Retracting Lifeline (SRL) apparatus using the system that govern a dynamic response between members causing a halt in relative motion between the members. Magnetic interactions, eddy current drag forces and centrifugal and/or inertial forces may provide various mechanisms of governing movement..