Tripod Foot Strap Connector for Rapid Webbing Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tripod devices for raising and lowering workers into manholes require time-consuming threading of webbing or chain through openings, and removal for storage or relocation is similarly cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A tripod system with strap connectors on each foot that allow webbing to be inserted transverse to the strap's length, featuring a strap insertion slot and abutment surface with retention surfaces to secure the strap under tension, reducing assembly and disassembly time and simplifying storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If webbing or chain is threaded through openings in the feet of the tripod, then the mechanical strength capability of the tripod is enhanced, but the assembly and disassembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The foot is divided into separate components: a rigid frame portion and a webbing connector portion. The webbing connector is detachably attached to the rigid frame, allowing the webbing to be quickly connected and disconnected without threading through the entire foot structure. This segmentation enables rapid assembly and disassembly while maintaining structural integrity during use.
Solution Approach 2:
A webbing connector acts as an intermediary component between the rigid frame and the webbing strap. This connector features a receptacle that receives the webbing and a detachable attachment mechanism that secures it. The intermediary connector simplifies the connection process by providing a dedicated interface, eliminating the need to thread webbing through complex foot structures, thus reducing assembly time while maintaining strength.
2Strength
If webbing or chain is threaded through openings in the feet of the tripod, then the mechanical strength capability of the tripod is enhanced, but the complexity of the operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The foot is divided into separate components: a rigid frame portion and a webbing connector portion. The webbing connector is detachably attached to the rigid frame, allowing the webbing to be quickly connected and disconnected without threading through the entire foot structure. This segmentation enables rapid assembly and disassembly while maintaining structural integrity during use.
Solution Approach 2:
A webbing connector acts as an intermediary component between the rigid frame and the webbing strap. This connector features a receptacle that receives the webbing and a detachable attachment mechanism that secures it. The intermediary connector simplifies the connection process by providing a dedicated interface, eliminating the need to thread webbing through complex foot structures, thus reducing assembly time while maintaining strength.
3Productivity
If the tripod is designed for quick assembly and disassembly, then the productivity is improved, but the mechanical strength capability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The webbing connector is pre-attached to the rigid frame through a detachable connection mechanism that allows for quick attachment and detachment. The receptacle is pre-formed to receive the webbing strap, and the attachment mechanism is pre-configured to secure the webbing with a simple action. This preliminary preparation enables rapid setup and teardown while ensuring that the connection maintains full mechanical strength when engaged.
Solution Approach 2:
The webbing connector uses a simple, robust attachment mechanism that can be quickly engaged and disengaged, similar to a disposable or temporary connection solution. While the connector itself is durable, the attachment mechanism is designed for repeated quick connections rather than permanent fixation, prioritizing speed of operation while maintaining sufficient strength for the application.
Data Source
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AI summary
A foot (20) is provided for a tripod system (10) for supporting the weight of a worker (12) during entry to and exit from a worksite (14) beneath the tripod system (10), the tripod system (10) including a central frame (16) and three support legs (18) extending from the frame (16). The foot is attachable to each of the legs (18) and includes a rigid frame (40) attachable to any of the corresponding legs (18), and a hook-shaped strap connector (60) carried on the frame (40) to allow a portion (64) of a webbing strap (32) to be inserted into the connector (60) transverse to a longitudinal length of the webbing strap (32).