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(11) | EP 4 445 962 A1 |
| (12) | EUROPEAN PATENT APPLICATION |
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| (54) | AN ARRANGEMENT FOR GUIDING A SAFETY LINE |
| (57) An arrangement (100) for guiding a safety line (300) connectable to a user, comprising
a wire (108), a traveler device (102) and one or more curved members (110). The wire
(108) is attachable to a structure (400) of a building. The traveler device (102)
is connectable to and movable along the wire (108). The traveler device (102) is attachable
to the safety line (300). The curved member (110) is attachable to the structure (400).
The curved member (110) defines a passage (112). The wire (108) has a longitudinal
extension (114) and extends through the passage (112) defined by the curved member
(110). The curved member (110) is movable in relation to the wire (108) and between
a first position and a second position. In the first position the curved member (110)
is configured to allow the traveler device (102) to pass so as to move along the wire
(108) while in the second position the curved member (110) is configured to lock the
traveler device (102) so as to prevent the traveler device (102) from passing.
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Technical field
[0001] Aspects of the present invention relate to an arrangement for guiding a safety line connectable to a user, wherein the arrangement comprises a wire and a traveler device connectable to and movable along the wire.
Background
[0002] Conventionally, a wire for fall protection may be mounted or attached to the roof or wall of a building by way of attachments. The wire may extend along the roof and/or wall of the building and a user may connect to the wire via a safety line attached to a slidable traveler device, which is mounted on the wire. The traveler device is guided along the wire and allows the user to move along the wire while being protected against falling.
Summary
[0003] The inventor of the present invention has found drawbacks in conventional solutions for guiding a safety line connectable to a user, or worker, along a wire attached to the roof and/or wall of a building. For example, some conventional solutions have a too complex design, or are too complex to use by a user.
[0004] An object of embodiments of the invention is to provide a solution which mitigates or solves drawbacks and problems of conventional solutions.
[0005] The above and further objects are solved by the subject matter of the independent claim. Further advantageous embodiments of the invention can be found in the dependent claims.
[0006] According to a first aspect of the invention, the above mentioned and other objects are achieved with an arrangement for guiding a safety line connectable to a user, wherein the arrangement comprises
a wire,
a traveler device, and
one or more curved members,
wherein the wire is attachable to a structure of a building,
wherein the traveler device is connectable to and movable along the wire,
wherein the traveler device is attachable to the safety line,
wherein the curved member is attachable to a structure of a building,
wherein the curved member defines a passage,
wherein the wire has a longitudinal extension and extends through the passage defined by the curved member,
wherein the curved member is movable in relation to the wire and between a first position and a second position, and
wherein in the first position the curved member is configured to allow the traveler device to pass so as to move along the wire while in the second position the curved member is configured to lock the traveler device so as to prevent the traveler device from passing and moving along the wire.
[0007] An advantage of the arrangement according to the first aspect is that a more secure and less complicated arrangement, or procedure, for the user to travel along a wire is provided in relation to conventional solutions. An advantage of the arrangement according to the first aspect is an improved user-friendliness. An advantage of the arrangement according to the first aspect is that the arrangement is easy to install. An advantage of the arrangement according to the first aspect is that the arrangement is easier and less expensive to produce in relation to conventional solutions. An advantage of the arrangement according to the first aspect is that the movements of the user along the wire are not hindered while the safety of the user is maintained. An advantage of the arrangement according to the first aspect is that an improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire is provided. An advantage of the arrangement according to the first aspect is an improved safety for the user, or worker.
[0008] For some embodiments, the structure of the building may comprise one or more of a wall, roof, walkway and ladder. However, other structures are possible. For some embodiments, the wire may be referred to as a safety wire for fall protection. For some embodiments, the traveler device may be referred to as a traveling connector or coupler.
[0009] According to an advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, the curved member is rotatable in relation to the wire and between the first position and the second position. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved user-friendliness. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved safety for the user. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0010] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, the curved member is configured to move from the first position to the second position by way of gravity. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved user-friendliness. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved safety for the user. An advantage of this embodiment is that the process of installing the arrangement is further facilitated. An advantage of this embodiment is that the arrangement is easier and less expensive to produce in relation to conventional solutions. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0011] According to another advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, the arrangement comprises a biasing member configured to urge the curved member from the first position to the second position. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved user-friendliness. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved safety for the user. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0012] According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, the curved member is configured to be operated by a user so as to be moved from the second position to the first position. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved user-friendliness. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved safety for the user. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0013] According to still another advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, the arrangement comprises a grip configured to be gripped by a user,
wherein the grip is attached to the curved member, and
wherein the grip is configured to control the movement of the curved member from the second position to the first position.
[0014] An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved user-friendliness. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved safety for the user. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0015] According to an advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, the curved member is movably attachable to the structure of the building so as to be movable between the first position and the second position. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0016] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, the arrangement comprises an attachment member attachable to the structure of the building, wherein the curved member is pivotally attached to the attachment member and rotatable in relation to the attachment member. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved user-friendliness. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved safety for the user. An advantage of this embodiment is that the process of installing the arrangement is further facilitated. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0017] According to another advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, the grip is pivotally attached to the attachment member and rotatable in relation to the attachment member. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved user-friendliness. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved safety for the user. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0018] According to still another advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, the curved member defines the passage in a plane,
wherein in the first position of the curved member the plane of the passage forms one or more first angles with the direction of the longitudinal extension of the wire, and
wherein in the second position of the curved member the plane of the passage forms one or more second angles with the direction of the longitudinal extension of the wire, the second angle being different from the first angle.
[0019] An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0020] According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, in the first position the plane of the passage is transverse to the direction of the longitudinal extension of the wire. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0021] According to an advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, in the second position the plane of the passage is non-transverse to the direction of the longitudinal extension of the wire. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0022] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, in the second position the plane of the passage is diagonal to the direction of the longitudinal extension of the wire. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0023] According to another advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, in the first position the plane of the passage is horizontal. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0024] According to still another advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, the curved member is U-shaped. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved user-friendliness. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved safety for the user. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0025] According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, wherein the curved member comprises
a first oblong member,
a second oblong member, and
an intermediate member positioned between the first and second oblong members,
wherein each one of the first and second oblong members has a longitudinal extension.
[0026] According to an advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, in the first position of the curved member each one of the longitudinal extensions of the first and second oblong members forms one or more first angles with the direction of the longitudinal extension of the wire,
wherein in the second position of the curved member each one of the longitudinal extensions of the first and second oblong members forms one or more second angles with the direction of the longitudinal extension of the wire, the second angle being different from the first angle.
[0027] An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved user-friendliness. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved safety for the user. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0028] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, in the first position the longitudinal extension of each one of the first and second oblong members extends in a direction transverse to the direction of the longitudinal extension of the wire. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0029] According to another advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, in the second position the longitudinal extension of each one of the first and second oblong members extends in a direction non-transverse the direction of the longitudinal extension of the wire. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0030] According to still another advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, in the second position the longitudinal extension of each one of the first and second oblong members extends in a direction diagonal to the direction of the longitudinal extension of the wire. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0031] According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, in the first position the longitudinal extension of each one of the first and second oblong members extends in a horizontal direction. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0032] According to an advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, the traveler device comprises one or more wheels comprising several arms.
[0033] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, the traveler device comprises
a body,
a slider, and
a coupler attachable to the safety line,
wherein the wheel is pivotally attached to the body and rotatable in relation to the body,
wherein the coupler is attached to the body, and
wherein the arms are configured for engagement with the slider so as to position the wire between the body and the slider.
[0034] According to another advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, the wheel is rotatable in relation to the slider.
[0035] According to still another advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, in the second position the curved member is configured to lock the traveler device by locking one of the arms of the wheel and by locking another one of the arms of the wheel, said another arm being next to said one arm and trailing in relation to said one arm in a direction of rotation of the wheel. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved user-friendliness. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved safety for the user. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0036] According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, the curved member has an inside facing the passage defined by the curved member,
wherein the curved member has an outside facing away from the passage defined by the curved member, and
wherein in the second position the curved member is configured to lock the traveler device by locking the inside of the curved member to one of the arms of the wheel and by locking the outside of the curved member to another one of the arms of the wheel.
[0037] An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved safety for the user. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0038] According to an advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, in the second position the curved member is configured to lock the traveler device by locking the inside of the curved member to one of the arms of the wheel and by locking the outside of the curved member to another one of the arms of the wheel, said another arm being next to said one arm and trailing in relation to said one arm in a direction of rotation of the wheel. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved safety for the user. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0039] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, the arm has an inside facing the body of the traveler device,
wherein the arm has an outside facing away from the body of the traveler device,
wherein the arm has two lateral sides connecting the inside of the arm to the outside of the arm, and
wherein in the second position the curved member is configured to lock the traveler device by locking the inside of the curved member to the outside of one of the arms of the wheel and by locking the outside of the curved member to one of the two lateral sides of another one of the arms of the wheel.
[0040] An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved safety for the user. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0041] According to another advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, in the second position the curved member is configured to lock the traveler device by locking the inside of the curved member to the outside of one of the arms of the wheel and by locking the outside of the curved member to one of the two lateral sides of another one of the arms of the wheel, said another arm being next to said one arm and trailing in relation to said one arm in a direction of rotation of the wheel. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved safety for the user. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0042] According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, the traveler device comprises two wheels comprising several arms. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved safety for the user. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0043] According to still another advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, the body is positioned between the two wheels. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved user-friendliness. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved safety for the user. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0044] According to an advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, the traveler device is movable in relation to the curved member.
[0045] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, the curved member is made from a rod. An advantage of this embodiment is that the arrangement is easier and less expensive to produce in relation to conventional solutions. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved safety for the user. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved guidance of the traveler device along the wire.
[0046] According to another advantageous embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect, one or more of the curved member, the traveler device and the attachment member is/are made of a material comprising or consisting of a metal or a metal alloy. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved safety for the user.
[0047] According to a second aspect of the invention, the above mentioned and other objects are achieved with an installation comprising one or more structures of a building, wherein the installation comprises one or more arrangements according to any one of the embodiments disclosed above or below. The structure of the building may comprise one or more of a wall or roof.
[0048] The above-mentioned features and embodiments of the arrangement and the installation, respectively, may be combined in various possible ways providing further advantageous embodiments.
[0049] Further advantageous embodiments of the arrangement and the installation according to the present invention and further advantages with the embodiments of the present invention emerge from the detailed description of embodiments.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0050] Embodiments of the invention will now be illustrated, for exemplary purposes, in more detail by way of embodiments and with reference to the enclosed drawings, where similar references are used for similar parts, in which:
Figures 1A-F are schematic views of an embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect of the invention when a user attached to the traveler device via a safety line is traveling downward in a controlled manner;
Figures 2A-I are schematic views of the arrangement of figures 1A-E when the user is falling downward in an uncontrolled manner;
Figures 3A-F are schematic views of the arrangement of figures 1A-E when the user is traveling upward in a controlled manner; and
Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of the attachment member of an embodiment of the arrangement according to the first aspect of the invention.
Detailed Description
[0051] With reference to figures 1A to 4, aspects of embodiments of the arrangement 100 for guiding, or for the guidance of, a safety line 300 (see figure 1A) connectable to a user, or a worker, are schematically illustrated. The safety line 300 may comprise a rope, a wire, or any other suitable line.
[0052] Figures 1A-F schematically illustrate the arrangement 100 when the user, who is attached to a traveler device 102 via the safety line 300, is traveling downward 104 in a controlled manner. All figures 1A-F but figure 1E are perspective views, whereas figure 1E is a side view.
[0053] Figures 2A-I schematically illustrate the arrangement 100 when the user is falling downward 104 in an uncontrolled manner, for example, as a result of accidently or unintentionally falling off a structure 400 of a building, such as slipping or losing a grip, and is captured by the arrangement 100. All figures 2A-I but figure 2F are perspective views, whereas figure 2F is a front view.
[0054] Figures 3A-F schematically illustrate the arrangement 100 when the user is traveling upward 106 in a controlled manner. All figures 3A-F but figure 3E are perspective views, whereas figure 3E is a side view.
[0055] With reference to figure 1A, the arrangement 100 includes a wire 108, a traveler device 102 and one or more curved members 110. For some embodiments, the curved member 110 may comprise a loop. The wire 108 may be formed by attaching to two or more wires to one another. The wire 108 is indirectly or directly attachable, or attached, to a structure 400 of a building. The structure 400 may comprise a wall 402 or a roof of a building, or any other structure 400 of a building, such as a walkway, a ladder 404, for example, a ladder 404 including steps 406, or rungs. The ladder 404 may be attached to the wall 402 of a building. The traveler device 102 is connectable, or connected, to and movable, for example slidable, along, and in relation to, the wire 108. The traveler device 102 may be described to be mounted, or mountable, on the wire 108. The traveler device 102 is attachable, or attached, to the safety line 300. The curved member 110 is indirectly or directly attachable, or attached, to a structure 400 of a building. In the figures, the curved member 110 is attachable, or attached, to a ladder 404, more specifically, attached to a step 406 of a ladder 404. However, the curved member 110 may also be directly attached to the wall 402 or roof of the building, or indirectly attached to the wall 402 or roof via any other intermediate attachment. For some embodiments, the traveler device 102 may be referred to as a traveling connector or coupler. The wire 108 and the one or more curved members 110 may be attached, or attachable, to the same structure 400 or to different structures 400. The curved members 110 may be attached, or attachable, to the same structure 400 or to different structures 400.
[0056] With reference to figures 1A and 1B, the curved member 110 defines (or restricts, limits, or forms) a passage 112, or opening. The wire 108 has a longitudinal extension 114. The wire 108 and/or the longitudinal extension 114 of the wire 108 extend/extends through the passage 112 defined by the curved member 110. The curved member 110 is movable in relation to the wire 108. The curved member 110 is movable between a first position (see figure 1B) and a second position (see figure 1A). The first position is illustrated in figure 1B while the second position is illustrated in figure 1A. For some embodiments, it may be defined that when the curved member 110 is attached to the structure 400 of the building, the curved member 110 is movable in relation to the wire 108 and between the first position (see figure 1B) and the second position (see figure 1A).
[0057] In the figures, for illustrative purposes, only one curved member 110 is illustrated. However, it is to be understood that two or more curved members 110 may be mounted along the longitudinal extension 114 of the wire 108, for example spaced apart. Further, in the figures, for illustrative purposes, only a short, or reduced, longitudinal portion, or length, of the wire 108 is illustrated. However, it is to be understood that the wire 108 may extend a considerable length, for example further upward and downward in the figures. Further, in figure 1A, for illustrative purposes, only a short, or reduced, longitudinal portion, or length, of the safety line 300 is illustrated. However, it is to be understood that the safety line 300 may extend a considerable length, for example adapted to the type of work of the user and to the specific application of the arrangement 100.
[0058] With reference to figures 1B to 1E, which illustrate when the user is traveling downward 104 in a controlled manner, and figures 3B to 3E, which illustrate when the user is traveling upward 106 in a controlled manner, in the first position the curved member 110 is configured to allow, or let, the traveler device 102 to pass so as to move along the wire 108, or along the longitudinal extension 114 of the wire 108. With reference to figures 2A to 2I, which illustrate when the user is falling downward 104 in an uncontrolled manner, in the second position the curved member 110 is configured to lock the traveler device 102 so as to prevent the traveler device 102 from passing and moving along the wire 108, or along the longitudinal extension 114 of the wire 108. When the curved member 110 locks the traveler device 102, the user, which is connected to the traveler device 102 via the safety line 300, is prevented from falling further down in the downward 104 direction.
[0059] For some embodiments, the curved member 110 may be rotatable, or pivotal, in relation to the wire 108 and between the first position (see figure 1B) and the second position (see figure 1A), for example, when the curved member is attached to the structure 400 of the building. The curved member 110 may be rotatable in relation to the wire 108 about an axis of rotation 115 (see figures 1A and 1B). For some embodiments, the curved member 110 may be configured to move, for example passively move or without any operation of a user, from the first position (see figure 1B) to the second position (see figure 1A) by way of gravity. For some embodiments, for example as illustrated in the figures, the arrangement 100 may include a biasing member 116 configured to urge the curved member 110 from the first position (see figure 1B) to the second position (see figure 1A). For some embodiments, the biasing member 116 may comprise a spring, for example a coil spring, such as a torsion coil spring, or a torsion spring.
[0060] For some embodiments, the curved member 110 may be configured to be operated by a user so as to be moved from the second position (see figure 1A) to the first position (see figure 1B). For some embodiments, the arrangement 100 includes a grip 118, or an operating grip, configured to be gripped by a user. The grip 118 is indirectly or directly attached, or connected, to the curved member 110. The grip 118 is configured to control the movement of the curved member 110 from the second position (see figure 1A) to the first position (see figure 1B). The grip 118 may comprise a lever or handle. The grip 118 may be described as a part or device for gripping. For some embodiments, it may be defined that the grip 118 is configured to be gripped by a user, or operator. The grip 118 may be configured to be gripped by a user's hand, or by one or more fingers of a user. However, the grip 118 may be configured to be gripped by other means. For some embodiments, for example as illustrated in the figures, the grip 118 may be integrally formed with the curved element 110. The fact that the grip 118 is integrally formed with the curved element 110 implies, or means, that the grip 118 and the curved element 110 are formed into a single piece and/or are formed from a single piece. Expressed alternatively, the fact that the grip 118 is integrally formed with the curved element 110 may imply, or may mean, that the grip 118 and the curved element 110 are made of a single piece.
[0061] For some embodiments, the curved member 100 may be described to be movably attachable, or attached, to the structure 400 of the building so as to be movable between the first position (see figure 1B) and the second position (see figure 1A). For some embodiments, the arrangement 100 may include an attachment member 120 attachable, or attached, to the structure 400 of the building, wherein the curved member 110 may be pivotally attached to the attachment member 120 and rotatable in relation to the attachment member 120. For some embodiments, the grip 118 may be pivotally attached to the attachment member 120 and rotatable in relation to the attachment member 120.
[0062] With reference to figures 1C and 2B, for some embodiments it may be described that the curved member 110 defines the passage 112 in a plane 122. With reference to figure 1C, in the first position of the curved member 110 the plane 122 of the passage 112 forms one or more first angles α with the direction 124 of the longitudinal extension 114 of the wire 108, or with the longitudinal extension 114 of the wire 108. With reference to figure 2B, in the second position of the curved member 110 the plane 122 of the passage 112 forms one or more second angles β with the direction 124 of the longitudinal extension 114 of the wire 108, or with longitudinal extension 114 of the wire 108, wherein the second angle β is different from the first angle α. The second angle β may be defined as an acute angle.
[0063] With reference to figure 1C, for some embodiments, it may be defined that in the first position the plane 122 of the passage 112 is transverse, or perpendicular, to the direction 124 of the longitudinal extension 114 of the wire 108. For some embodiments, it may be defined that in the first position the plane 122 of the passage 112 is horizontal, i.e. substantially horizontal, for example when the curved member is attached to the structure of the building.
[0064] With reference to figure 2B, for some embodiments, it may be defined that in the second position the plane 122 of the passage 112 is non-transverse, or non-perpendicular, to the direction 124 of the longitudinal extension 114 of the wire 108. For some embodiments, it may be defined that in the second position the plane 122 of the passage 112 is diagonal to the direction 124 of the longitudinal extension 114 of the wire 108, or that the plane 122 of the passage 112 is slanting, or extends in a slanting direction, in relation to the direction 124 of the longitudinal extension 114 of the wire 108.
[0065] For some embodiments, the curved member 110 may be U-shaped, or may form a U-shape. However, for other embodiments, the curved member 110 may form other shapes. With reference to figure 1A, the curved member 110 may include a first oblong, or elongated, member 126. The curved member 110 may include a second oblong member 128. The curved member 110 may include an intermediate member 131 positioned between the first and second oblong members 126, 128. Each one 126, 128 of the first and second oblong members 126, 128 has a longitudinal extension 130, 132. The intermediate member 131 may be described to connect, or join, the first oblong member 126 to the second oblong member 128.
[0066] With reference to figure 1C, for some embodiments, it may be defined that in the first position of the curved member 110 each one 130, 132 of the longitudinal extensions 130, 132 of the first and second oblong members 126, 128 forms one or more first angles α with the direction 124 of the longitudinal extension 114 of the wire 108, or with the longitudinal extension 114 of the wire 108. With reference to figure 2B, for some embodiments, it may be defined that in the second position of the curved member 110 each one 130, 132 of the longitudinal extensions 130, 132 of the first and second oblong members 126, 128 forms one or more second angles β with the direction 124 of the longitudinal extension 114 of the wire 108, or with the longitudinal extension 114 of the wire 108, wherein the second angle β is different from the first angle α.
[0067] With reference to figure 1C, for some embodiments, it may be defined that in the first position the longitudinal extension 130, 132 of each one 126, 128 of the first and second oblong members 126, 128 extends in a direction 134 transverse, or perpendicular, to the direction 124 of the longitudinal extension 114 of the wire. For some embodiments, it may be defined that in the first position the longitudinal extension 130, 132 of each one 126, 128 of the first and second oblong members 126, 128 extends in a horizontal direction 134, i.e. a substantially horizontal direction 134.
[0068] With reference to figure 2B, for some embodiments, it may be defined that in the second position the longitudinal extension 130, 132 of each one 126, 128 of the first and second oblong members 126, 128 extends in a direction 136 non-transverse, or non-perpendicular, to the direction 124 of the longitudinal extension 114 of the wire 108. For some embodiments, it may be defined that in the second position the longitudinal extension 130, 132 of each one 126, 128 of the first and second oblong members 126, 128 extends in a direction 136 diagonal to the direction of the longitudinal extension 114 of the wire 108, or in a slanting direction 136 in relation to the direction 124 of the longitudinal extension 114 of the wire 108.
[0069] With reference to figures 1E and 2C to 2I, the traveler device 102 may comprise one or more wheels 138a-b. Each wheel 138a-b may comprise several arms 140a-g, or spokes. In the embodiment illustrated in the figures, each wheel 138a-b has seven arms 140a-g. However, the wheel 138a-b may have fewer or more arms than seven. In the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the traveler device 102 has two wheels 138a-b. However, for some embodiments, the traveler device 102 may have only one wheel 138a-b, or more than two wheels 138a-b. For some embodiments, the traveler device 102 may include a body 142, a slider 144, and a coupler 146 attachable, or attached, to the safety line 400. The wheel 138a-b is pivotally attached to the body 142 and rotatable in relation to the body 142, for example about an axis of rotation 147 (see figures 2C and 2I), for example by way of a shaft or bolt. The coupler 146 is attached to the body 142. The arms 140a-g are configured for engagement with the slider 144 so as to position, or keep, the wire 108 between the body 142 and the slider 144. When the traveler device 102 includes two wheels 138a-b comprising several arms 140a-g, the body 142 is positioned between the two wheels 138a-b. It may be defined that the slider 144 is positioned between the two wheels 138a-b. With reference to figures 1D and 2I, each arm 140a-g may form a recess 148a-b configured for engagement with a guide 150, or a projection, formed by the slider 144, so as to keep the slider connected to the wheels 138a-b. For some embodiments, it may be defined that the wheel 138a-b is rotatable in relation to the slider 144. When the traveler device 102 includes two wheels 138a-b comprising several arms 140a-g, it may be defined that the arms 140a-g are configured for engagement with the slider 144 so as to position, or keep, the wire 108 between the two wheels 138a-b.
[0070] With reference to figures 2C to 2I, for some embodiments, it may be defined that in the second position the curved member 110 is configured to lock the traveler device 102 by locking one 140a, for example a leading arm 140a, of the arms 140a-g of the wheel 138a and by locking another one 140b, for example a trailing arm 140b, of the arms 140a-g of the wheel 138a, i.e., of the same wheel 138a, wherein said another arm 140b is next to said one arm 140a, and wherein said another arm 140b is trailing in relation to said one arm 140a in a direction of rotation R of the wheel 138a. When the traveler device 102 has two wheels 138a-b, as illustrated in the figures, figures 2D and 2G illustrate how the curved member 110, in the second position, locks, or is configured to lock, the traveler device 102 by locking, such as by abutment or contact, a leading arm 140a of each one 138a-b of the two wheels 138a-b, wherein said locking is identified by two circles 156a; 156b formed by dotted lines in figures 2D and 2G. When the traveler device 102 has two wheels 138a-b, as illustrated in the figures, figures 2E, 2H and 2I illustrate how the curved member 110, in the second position, locks, or is configured to lock, the traveler device 102 by locking, such as by abutment or contact, a trailing arm 140b of each one 138a-b of the two wheels 138a-b, wherein said locking is identified by two circles 158a; 158b formed by dotted lines in figures 2E, 2H and 2I.
[0071] With reference to figures 2D to 2I, for some embodiments, it may be defined that the curved member 110 has an inside 152 facing the passage 112 defined by the curved member 110 and that the curved member 110 has an outside 154 substantially facing away from the passage 112 defined by the curved member 110. For some embodiments, it may be defined that in the second position the curved member 110 is configured to lock the traveler device 102 by locking the inside 152 of the curved member 110 to one 140a, for example a leading arm 140a, of the arms 140a-g of the wheel 138a; 138b and by locking the outside 154 of the curved member 110 to another one 140b, for example a trailing arm 140b, of the arms 140a-g of the wheel 138a; 138b, i.e., of the same wheel 138a; 138b. It may be defined that said another arm 140b, for example the trailing arm 140b, is next to said one arm 140, for example the leading arm 140a, and trailing in relation to said one arm 140a in a direction of rotation R of the wheel 138a; 138b.
[0072] When the traveler device 102 has two wheels 138a-b, as illustrated in the figures, figures 2D and 2G illustrate how the curved member 110, in the second position, locks, or is configured to lock, the traveler device 102 by locking the inside 152 of the curved member 110 to a leading arm 140a of each one 138a-b of the two wheels 138a-b, which is identified by the two circles 156a; 156b formed by dotted lines. When the traveler device 102 has two wheels 138a-b, as illustrated in the figures, figures 2E, 2H and 2I illustrate how the curved member 110, in the second position, locks, or is configured to lock, the traveler device 102 by locking the outside 154 of the curved member 110 to a trailing arm 140b of each one 138a-b of the two wheels 138a-b, which is identified by the two circles 158a; 158b formed by dotted lines.
[0073] With reference to figures 2D to 2I, for some embodiments, it may be defined that the arm 140a-b has an inside 160a-b facing the body 142 of the traveler device 102, that the arm 140a-b has an outside 162a-b facing away from the body 142 of the traveler device 102, and that the arm 140a-b has two lateral sides 164a-b, 166a-b connecting the inside 160a-b of the arm 140a-b to the outside 162a-b of the arm 140a-b. For some embodiments, it may be defined that in the second position the curved member 110 is configured to lock the traveler device 102 by locking, such as by abutment or contact, the inside 152 of the curved member 110 to the outside 162a of one 140a, for example of a leading arm 140a, of the arms 140a-g of the wheel 138a; 138b and by locking, such as by abutment or contact, the outside 154 of the curved member 110 to one 164b of the two lateral sides 164b, 166b of another one 140b, for example a trailing arm 140b, of the arms 140a-g of the wheel 138a; 138b, i.e., of the same wheel 138a; 138b. It may be defined that said another arm 140b, for example the trailing arm 140b, is next to said one arm 140, for example the leading arm 140a, and trailing in relation to said one arm 140a in a direction of rotation R of the wheel 138a; 138b. Said one 164b of the two lateral sides 164b, 166b of said another arm 140b of the wheel 138a; 138b, which is locked by the outside 154 of the curved member 110, may be defined to face the leading arm 140a.
[0074] When the traveler device 102 has two wheels 138a-b, as illustrated in the figures, figures 2D and 2G illustrate how the curved member 110, in the second position, locks, or is configured to lock, the traveler device 102 by locking the inside 152 of the curved member 110 to the outside 162a of a leading arm 140a of each one 138a-b of the two wheels 138a-b, which is identified by the two circles 156a; 156b formed by dotted lines. When the traveler device 102 has two wheels 138a-b, as illustrated in the figures, figures 2E, 2H and 2I illustrate how the curved member 110, in the second position, locks, or is configured to lock, the traveler device 102 by locking the outside 154 of the curved member 110 to one 164b of the two lateral sides 164b, 166b of a trailing arm 140b of each one 138a-b of the two wheels 138a-b, which is identified by the two circles 158a; 158b formed by dotted lines.
[0075] For some embodiments, it may be defined that the lateral sides 164a-b, 166a-b of the same arm 140a-b are opposite, or opposed to, one another. For some embodiments, it may be defined that the inside 160a-b of the arm 140a-b of one 138a; 138b of the two wheels 138a; 138b faces the other one 138a; 138b of the two wheels 138a; 138b. For some embodiments, it may be defined that the inside 140a-b and outside 162a-b of the same arm 140a-b are opposite, or opposed to, one another.
[0076] For some embodiments, it may be defined that the traveler device 102 is movable in relation to the curved member 110. For some embodiments, the curved member 110 may be made from a rod, or bar, or any other element or unit.
[0077] When the user travels upward 106 (see figures 3A-F) or downward 104 (see figures 1A-F) in a controlled manner, the user simply moves the curved member 110 from the second position to the first position and then simply moves the traveler device 102 past the curved member 110 when the curved member 110 is maintained in the first position. As illustrated in figures 1D-E and 3B-E, when the traveler device 102 passes the curved member 110, the slider 144 travels, or is configured to travel, through the passage 112 while the wheel, or wheels, 138a; 138b travels, or is configured to travel, outside the passage 112 or outside the curved member 110.
[0078] For some embodiments, it may be described that the size of the projection of the area of the passage 112 defined by the curved member 110 positioned in the first position (see figure 1C) onto an imaginary plane (for example, the pane 122 in figure 1C) perpendicular to the direction 124 of the longitudinal extension 114 of the wire 108 exceeds the size of the projection of the area of the passage 112 defined by the curved member positioned in the second position (see figure 1A) onto the same imaginary plane (for example, the pane 122 in figure 1C) perpendicular to the direction 124 of the longitudinal extension 114 of the wire 108.
[0079] With reference to figure 4, an embodiment of the attachment member 120 is schematically illustrated in isolation. The attachment member 120 illustrated in figure 4 is configured for the attachment, inter alia, to a step 406 of a ladder 404, for example a step 404 having a substantially circular cross-section. The attachment member 120 may include one or more clamping elements 168 configured to be clamped around the step 406 of the ladder 404. The attachment member 120 illustrated in figure 4 has four clamping elements 168 spaced apart from one another. However, the attachment member 120 may have fewer or more clamping elements 168 than four. The attachment member 120 may include two holders 170a-b for holding the curved element 110. The holder 170a-b may form an opening 172a-b for receiving and holding the curved element 110. The holder 170a-b and/or the curved element 110 may be configured to hold the biasing member 116. The attachment member 120 may include a base 174 attaching the holders 170a-b to the one or more clamping elements 168. For some embodiments, one or more of the clamping element or elements 168, holders 170a-b and base 174 may be integrally formed with one another. However, other types of attachment members are possible, for example adapted to other applications.
[0080] For some embodiments, one or more of the curved member 110, the traveler device 102 and the attachment member 120 may be made of a material comprising or consisting of a metal or a metal alloy. However, other materials are possible. For example, one or more of the curved member 110, the traveler device 102 and the attachment member 120 may be made of a material comprising or consisting of a polymer or a polymer composite.
[0081] Although the embodiments of the arrangement 100 disclosed above are illustrated when applied to a wall 402 and/or a vertical ladder 404, it is to be understood that embodiments of the arrangement 100 may be applied to other structures of a building, such as the roof. For some applications, the structure 400, or ladder 404, does not have to extend in a vertical direction. For some applications, the wall 402 or roof does not have to be vertical, but may instead, for example, be sloping or slanting. In the figures, the longitudinal extension 114 of the wire 108 is illustrated as extending in a vertical, or substantially vertical, direction. However, for other applications, the longitudinal extension 114 of the wire 108 does not have to extend in a vertical direction.
[0082] With reference to the figures, an installation 500, such as a wall or roof installation, is also provided, wherein the installation 500 includes one or more structures 400 of a building, and wherein the installation 500 includes one or more arrangements 100 according to any one of the embodiments disclose above.
1. An arrangement (100) for guiding a safety line (300) connectable to a user, wherein
the arrangement (100) comprises
a wire (108),
a traveler device (102), and
one or more curved members (110),
wherein the wire (108) is attachable to a structure (400) of a building,
wherein the traveler device (102) is connectable to and movable along the wire (108),
wherein the traveler device (102) is attachable to the safety line (300),
wherein the curved member (110) is attachable to a structure (400) of a building,
wherein the curved member (110) defines a passage (112),
wherein the wire (108) has a longitudinal extension (114) and extends through the passage (112) defined by the curved member (110),
wherein the curved member (110) is movable in relation to the wire (108) and between a first position and a second position, and
wherein in the first position the curved member (110) is configured to allow the traveler device (102) to pass so as to move along the wire (108) while in the second position the curved member (110) is configured to lock the traveler device (102) so as to prevent the traveler device (102) from passing and moving along the wire (108).
2. An arrangement (100) according to claim 1, wherein the curved member (110) is rotatable
in relation to the wire (108) and between the first position and the second position.
3. An arrangement (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the curved member (110) is
configured to move from the first position to the second position by way of gravity.
4. An arrangement (100) according to any one of the claims 1 to 3, wherein the arrangement
(100) comprises a biasing member (116) configured to urge the curved member (110)
from the first position to the second position.
5. An arrangement (100) according to any one of the claims 1 to 4, wherein the curved
member (110) is configured to be operated by a user so as to be moved from the second
position to the first position.
6. An arrangement (100) according to any one of the claims 1 to 5, wherein the curved
member (110) defines the passage (112) in a plane (122),
wherein in the first position of the curved member (110) the plane (122) of the passage (112) forms one or more first angles (α) with the direction (124) of the longitudinal extension (114) of the wire (108), and
wherein in the second position of the curved member (110) the plane (122) of the passage (112) forms one or more second angles (β) with the direction (124) of the longitudinal extension (114) of the wire (108), the second angle (β) being different from the first angle (α).
7. An arrangement (100) according to claim 6, wherein in the first position the plane
(122) of the passage (112) is transverse to the direction (124) of the longitudinal
extension (114) of the wire (108).
8. An arrangement (100) according to any one of the claims 1 to 7, wherein the traveler
device (102) comprises one or more wheels (138a-b) comprising several arms (140a-g).
9. An arrangement (100) according to claim 8, wherein the traveler device (102) comprises
a body (142),
a slider (144), and
a coupler (146) attachable to the safety line (300),
wherein the wheel (138a-b) is pivotally attached to the body (142) and rotatable in relation to the body (142),
wherein the coupler (146) is attached to the body (146), and
wherein the arms (140a-g) are configured for engagement with the slider (144) so as to position the wire (108) between the body (142) and the slider (144).
10. An arrangement (100) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein in the second position the
curved member (110) is configured to lock the traveler device (102) by locking one
(140a) of the arms (140a-g) of the wheel (138a;138b) and by locking another one (140b)
of the arms (140a-g) of the wheel (138a; 138b), said another arm (140b) being next
to said one arm (140a) and trailing in relation to said one arm (140a) in a direction
of rotation (R) of the wheel (138a, 138b).
11. An arrangement (100) according to any one of the claims 8 to 10, wherein the curved
member (110) has an inside (152) facing the passage (112) defined by the curved member
(110),
wherein the curved member (110) has an outside (154) facing away from the passage (112) defined by the curved member (110), and
wherein in the second position the curved member (110) is configured to lock the traveler device (102) by locking the inside (152) of the curved member (110) to one (140a) of the arms (140a-g) of the wheel (138a; 138b) and by locking the outside (154) of the curved member (110) to another one (140b) of the arms (140a-g) of the wheel (138a, 138b).
12. An arrangement (100) according to claim 11, wherein in the second position the curved
member (110) is configured to lock the traveler device (102) by locking the inside
(152) of the curved member (110) to one (140a) of the arms (140a-g) of the wheel (138a;
138b) and by locking the outside (154) of the curved member (110) to another one (140b)
of the arms (140a-g) of the wheel (138a; 138b), said another arm (140b) being next
to said one arm (140a) and trailing in relation to said one arm (140a) in a direction
of rotation (R) of the wheel (138a; 138b).
13. An arrangement (100) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the arm (140a-b) has an
inside (160a-b) facing the body (142) of the traveler device (102),
wherein the arm (140a-b) has an outside (162a-b) facing away from the body (142) of the traveler device (102),
wherein the arm (140a-b) has two lateral sides (164a-b, 166a-b) connecting the inside (160a-b) of the arm (140a-b) to the outside (162a-b) of the arm (140a-b), and
wherein in the second position the curved member (110) is configured to lock the traveler device (102) by locking the inside (152) of the curved member (110) to the outside (162a) of one (140a) of the arms (140a-g) of the wheel (138a; 138b) and by locking the outside (154) of the curved member (110) to one (164b) of the two lateral sides (164b, 166b) of another one (140b) of the arms (140a-g) of the wheel (138a; 138b).
14. An arrangement (100) according to any one of the claims 8 to 13, wherein the traveler
device (102) comprises two wheels (138a, 138b) comprising several arms (140a-g).
15. An installation (500) comprising one or more structures (400) of a building, wherein
the installation comprises one or more arrangements (100) according to any one of
the claims 1 to 14.