Tapered Concrete Anchor Point Wedge Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing concrete anchor point systems for overhead structures lack a reliable and efficient mechanism for removable attachment and detachment, particularly for fall protection of construction workers, as they often require complex tools and may not securely engage with the concrete structure.
Innovation Solution
A concrete anchor point system featuring a flexible primary support member with an anchoring and locking/unlocking portion, including chocks and a cleaning bushing, that allows for wedging and narrowing configurations to securely attach and detach from a tapered hole, facilitated by a specialized tool for easy installation and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional concrete anchor point system is used, then the worker is protected from falls, but the attachment and detachment process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor point system is divided into separate functional components: a chock for anchoring in the concrete structure, a carabiner for attaching the lanyard, and a flexible support member connecting them. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall attachment and detachment process.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor point system is designed to be self-installing through the wedge action of the chock within the tapered hole. The flexible support member automatically positions itself, and the carabiner can be quickly attached and detached by the worker without requiring additional tools or complex mechanisms.
2Reliability
If a secure anchoring mechanism is used, then the worker safety is improved, but the installation and removal process becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible support member introduces dynamic capability to the anchor point system. It can bend and flex during installation to navigate the tapered hole, then maintains structural integrity under load. This flexibility enables easy insertion and removal while ensuring secure anchoring when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The chock utilizes parameter changes in the form of wedge geometry within a tapered hole. The varying angle of the taper allows the chock to be easily inserted when narrow and to expand securely against the concrete structure when forced into the wider portion, enabling simple installation with reliable anchoring.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a removable anchor point system is used, then the versatility is improved, but the reliability of attachment may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible support member acts as a cushioning element that absorbs and distributes forces during both installation and use. It provides a buffer that maintains reliable connection between the chock and carabiner, ensuring attachment integrity while allowing for removable operation and adaptation to different positions.
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 system provides a secure and efficient means for attaching and detaching anchor points from concrete structures, enhancing fall protection by ensuring reliable anchoring and easy installation/removal processes, reducing the risk of worker injury and improving construction safety.
Implementation Method 1
The first chock has a radially outer-most surface at least 50%, and preferably at least 80%, of which is tapered to progressively increase in lateral extent in the forward direction... moving the locking/unlocking portion in the forward direction relative to the first chock results in the second chock being forced radially outwardly by the first chock to define, at an anchoring end of the anchoring portion, a wedging configuration of the anchor point
Data Source
AI summary
A concrete anchor point system provides for an anchor point, a receptacle for embedding into a concrete structure for removably receiving the anchor point, and a tool for remotely installing the anchor point in the structure, or removing the anchor point from the structure. The receptacle is preferably tapered, and an anchoring end of the anchor point is preferably tapered to match.