Step-Bolt Adaptor for Fall Arrest Safety
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing step-bolts used as anchor points for fall arrest systems on communication and electrical transmission towers are not strong enough to withstand the required forces and can bend or slide uncontrollably, posing safety concerns, and their installation is time-consuming and costly.
Innovation Solution
A step-bolt adaptor with a rigid body and a U-shaped engagement portion that securely fits around the step-bolt, controlling the application point of arrest forces and distributing them to the strongest part of the step-bolt, thereby minimizing bending moments and allowing for retro-fitting to existing structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If existing step-bolts are used as anchor points, then cost and installation time are reduced, but safety and reliability deteriorate due to bending and uncontrolled sliding
Solution Approach 1:
The adaptor acts as an intermediary device between the fall arrest system and the existing step-bolt. It provides a controlled engagement mechanism with features such as a U-shaped body that embraces the step-bolt and a support portion that receives the fall arrest system, thereby improving reliability without requiring new dedicated anchors
Solution Approach 2:
The adaptor is divided into distinct functional segments: a step-bolt engagement portion for securing to the existing step-bolt, and a support portion for receiving the fall arrest system. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system reliability
2Reliability
If the step-bolt adaptor is engaged with the step-bolt, then control over arrest force application is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adaptor concentrates the arrest force application at specific localized areas through its geometric design. The U-shaped body provides a defined engagement geometry with the step-bolt, and the support portion creates a controlled point of force application, ensuring forces are applied at optimal locations without requiring complex control mechanisms
3Strength
If a rigid step-bolt adaptor is used, then strength and stability are improved, but adaptability to different step-bolt configurations decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The adaptor is designed with a U-shaped body that can universally engage with standard step-bolt configurations. The open U-shape allows the adaptor to accommodate different step-bolt diameters and positions, while the rigid construction maintains strength and stability for fall arrest applications
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a step-bolt adaptor for engagement with an elongate step-bolt attached to a structure, the step-bolt adaptor comprising a body having a step-bolt engagement portion for engagement with a step-bolt; and a support portion extending from the step-bolt engagement portion, the support portion adapted to receive a part of a fall arrest system of a user. The present invention further provides a kit comprising a step-bolt for engagement with a structure and a step bolt adaptor for engagement with the step-bolt.