Protection device braking mechanism

A protection device for traversing a guide member and method of making the like, the protection device includes a wheel configured to engage the guide member. In some embodiments, the protection embodiment includes a locker configured to engage a braking surface. The locker engagement mechanism configured to releasably engage the locker. In some embodiments, a centrifugal actuator operatively coupled to the wheel and configured to actuate the locker engagement mechanism to release the locker based on a threshold speed of the wheel. In an instance in which the wheel is rotating at or above the threshold speed of the wheel in a first direction, the centrifugal actuator is configured to actuate and rotate the locker engagement mechanism to release the locker and to allow the locker to rotate and engage the braking surface. A corresponding method of operation is also provided.

TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

An example embodiment relates generally to protection devices and the method of operating the like and, more particularly, to protection devices configured with one or more braking devices to be activated based on the speed of the protection device.

BACKGROUND

From recreation to survival devices, protection devices are instrumental in preserving the safety of users and devices when traversing uncertain conditions and heights. In order to operate effectively, protection devices must be able to freely travel along a guide member to allow freedom of movement, while also quickly arresting unwanted or excessive movement, such as during a fall. Current protection devices struggle to effectively change between free travel of the protection device and stoppage of the protection device, and are often restricted in their operation to certain orientations and certain directions of motion. Applicant has identified a number of deficiencies and problems associated with current sensors. Through applied effort, ingenuity, and innovation, many of these identified problems have been solved by the methods and apparatus of the present disclosure.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the present disclosure. This summary is not an extensive overview and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements nor delineate the scope of such elements. Its purpose is to present some concepts of the described features in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

In an example embodiment, a protection device for traversing a guide member is provided. The protection device includes a wheel configured to engage the guide member. The protection device also includes a locker configured to engage a braking surface. The protection device further includes a locker engagement mechanism configured to releasably engage the locker. The protection device still further includes a centrifugal actuator operatively coupled to the wheel and configured to actuate the locker engagement mechanism to release the locker based on a threshold speed of the wheel. In an instance in which the wheel is rotating at or above the threshold speed of the wheel in a first direction, the centrifugal actuator is configured to actuate and rotate the locker engagement mechanism to release the locker and to allow the locker to rotate and engage the braking surface.

In some embodiments, the protection device also includes a second locker configured to engage the braking surface. In such an embodiment, in an instance in which the wheel is rotating at or above a second threshold speed in a second direction opposite the first direction, the centrifugal actuator is configured to actuate and rotate the locker engagement mechanism to allow the second locker to rotate and engage the braking surface.

In some embodiments, the protection device also includes a wheel housing configured to at least partially contain the wheel, the centrifugal actuator, the locker engagement mechanism, and the locker. In some embodiments, the braking surface is at least a portion of the guide member. In some embodiments, the guide member is a cable.

In some embodiments, in an instance in which the wheel is rotating at or above the threshold speed of the wheel in a second direction, the locker engagement mechanism is configured to remain engaged with the locker. In some embodiments, the protection device also includes an actuator plate and an actuator arm. In such an embodiment, the actuator plate is connected to the locker and the actuator arm is configured to move from a first released position to a second engaging position to move the actuator plate to cause the locker to rotatably engage the locker engagement mechanism.

In some embodiments, the protection device also includes an actuator plate and an actuator arm. In such an embodiment, the locker and the second locker are coupled to the actuator plate, the actuator arm is configured to move the actuator plate in a first engaging direction to cause the locker to rotatably engage the locker engagement mechanism, and the actuator arm is configured to move the actuator plate in a second engaging direction to cause the second locker to rotatably engage the locker engagement mechanism.

In some embodiments, the centrifugal actuator is disposed within a circumference of the wheel. In some embodiments, the centrifugal actuator includes a centrifugal component arm within a circumference of the wheel. In some embodiments, the locker engagement mechanism includes a ring actuated by the centrifugal component arm inside of the wheel. In such embodiments, the ring includes a protrusion around a portion of the ring configured to restrict the rotatable movement of the locker below the threshold speed of the wheel in the first direction. In some embodiments, the wheel rotates on a first axis and the locker rotates on a second axis. In some embodiments, the centrifugal actuator rotates on the first axis. In some embodiments, the second axis is outside of a circumference the wheel.

In another example embodiment, a protection device for navigating a guide member is provided. The protection device includes a wheel configured to rotatably engage the guide member. The protection device also includes a first locker and a second locker, the first locker and the second locker configured to engage a braking surface. The protection device further includes at least one locker engagement mechanism configured to releasably engage at least one of the first locker or the second locker. The protection device still further includes at least one centrifugal actuator operatively coupled to the wheel and configured to actuate at least one of the at least one locker engagement mechanism to release at least one of the first locker at a first threshold speed of the wheel or the second locker at a second threshold speed of the wheel. In an instance in which the wheel is rotating at or above the first threshold speed of the wheel in a first direction, one of the at least one centrifugal actuator is configured to actuate and rotate one of the at least one locker engagement mechanism to release the first locker and to allow the first locker to rotate and engage the braking surface. In an instance in which the wheel is rotating at or above the second threshold speed of the wheel in a second direction, one of the at least one centrifugal actuator is configured to actuate and rotate one of the at least one locker engagement mechanism to release the second locker and to allow the second locker to rotate and engage the braking surface.

In some embodiments, the first threshold speed and the second threshold speed are equal. In some embodiments, the protection device also includes a wheel housing configured to at least partially contain the wheel, the at least one centrifugal actuator, the at least one locker engagement mechanism, and the first and second locker. In some embodiments, the braking surface is at least a portion of the guide member. In some embodiments, the guide member is a cable.

In some embodiments, in an instance in which the wheel is rotating at or above the first threshold speed of the wheel in the second direction, at least one of the at least one locker engagement mechanism is configured to remain engaged with the first locker. In such an embodiment, in an instance in which the wheel is rotating at or above the second threshold speed of the wheel in the first direction, at least one of the at least one locker engagement mechanism is configured to remain engaged with the second locker.

In some embodiments, the protection device also includes an actuator plate and an actuator arm. In such an embodiment, the first locker and the second locker are coupled to the actuator plate, the actuator arm is configured to move the actuator plate in a first engaging direction to cause the first locker to rotatably engage the locker engagement mechanism, and the actuator arm is configured to move the actuator plate in a second engaging direction to cause the second locker to rotatably engage the locker engagement mechanism.

In some embodiments, at least one of the at least one centrifugal actuator is configured within a circumference of the wheel. In some embodiments, at least one of the at least one centrifugal actuator includes a centrifugal component arm inside a circumference of the wheel. In some embodiments, at least one of the at least one locker engagement mechanism includes a ring actuated by the centrifugal component arm inside of the wheel. In such an embodiment, the ring includes a protrusion around a portion of the ring configured to restrict the rotatable movement at least one of the first locker below the first threshold speed of the wheel in the first direction or the second locker below the second threshold speed of the wheel in the second direction.

In some embodiments, the wheel rotates on a first axis and the first locker rotates on a second axis. In some embodiments, the second locker rotates on a third axis. In some embodiments, the centrifugal actuator rotates on the first axis. In some embodiments, the second axis and the third axis are outside of a circumference of the wheel.

In still another example embodiment, a method of navigating a guide member with a protection device is provided. The method includes engaging a wheel with the guide member. The method also includes rotating a centrifugal actuator operatively coupled with the wheel at or above a first threshold speed of the wheel in a first direction. Based on the engagement of the centrifugal actuator, the method further includes actuating a locking engagement mechanism to release a locker. The method still further includes rotating the locker to engage with a braking surface.

In some embodiments, rotation of the locker may further be configured to displace an actuator plate, and displacement of the actuator plate may be configured to rotate an actuator arm from a first released position to a second engaging position.

In some embodiments, the method also includes engaging the centrifugal actuator operatively coupled with the wheel at or above a second threshold speed of the wheel in a second direction opposite the first direction. Based on the engagement of the centrifugal actuator, the method further includes actuating the locking engagement mechanism to release a second locker. The method still further includes rotating the second locker to engage with the braking surface.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of the wheel, the centrifugal actuator, the locker engagement mechanism, and the locker are contained in a housing. In some embodiments, the braking surface is at least a portion of the guide member. In some embodiments, the guide member is a cable. In some embodiments, in an instance in which the wheel is rotating at or above the threshold speed of the wheel in a second direction, the locker engagement mechanism is configured to remain engaged with the locker.

In some embodiments, the method also includes moving an actuator arm from a first released position to a second engaging position and based on the movement of the actuator arm, causing, via an actuator plate, the locker to rotatably engage the locker engagement mechanism.

In some embodiments, the method also includes moving an actuator arm in a first engaging direction. Based on the movement of the actuator arm in the first engaging direction, such a method also includes causing, via an actuator plate, the locker to rotatably engage the locker engagement mechanism. Such a method further includes moving the actuator arm in a second engaging direction. Based on the movement of the actuator arm in the second engaging direction, such a method still further includes causing, via the actuator plate, the second locker to rotatably engage the locker engagement mechanism.

In some embodiments, the centrifugal actuator is configured within a circumference of the wheel. In some embodiments, the centrifugal actuator includes a centrifugal component arm within a circumference of the wheel. In some embodiments, the locker engagement mechanism includes a ring actuated by the centrifugal component arm inside of the wheel, the ring comprising a protrusion around a portion of the ring configured to restrict the rotatable movement of the locker below the threshold speed of the wheel in the first direction. In some embodiments, the wheel rotates on a first axis and the locker rotates on a second axis. In some embodiments, the centrifugal actuator rotates on the first axis. In some embodiments, the second axis is outside of a circumference of the wheel.

In still another example embodiment, a method of resetting a braking device for a protection device is provided. The method may include moving an actuator arm in a first engaging direction. Based on the movement of the actuator arm in the first engaging direction, the method also may include causing, via an actuator plate, a first locker to rotatably engage a locker engagement mechanism. In some embodiments, the method further may include moving the actuator arm in a second engaging direction. Based on the movement of the actuator arm in the second engaging direction, the method still further may include causing, via the actuator plate, a second locker to rotatably engage the locker engagement mechanism.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Some embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments are shown. Indeed, various embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. As discussed herein, the protection devices may be referred to use by humans, but may also be used to raise and lower objects unless otherwise noted.

The components illustrated in the figures represent components that may or may not be present in various embodiments of the invention described herein such that embodiments may include fewer or more components than those shown in the figures while not departing from the scope of the invention. Some components may be omitted from one or more figures or shown in dashed line for visibility of the underlying components.

The present disclosure provides various protection devices and the method of operating the like to provide sufficient braking force to a guide member. In some example, the protection device may be used for recreational climbing, powerline repair, object transportation and the like. Such applications often require free motion of the protection device at low speeds and protection for the user during high speeds. The present disclosure allows for a protection device to freely operate at lower speeds and provide a permanent braking to the protection device when a threshold speed is reached or exceeded in one or more directions. The threshold speed of the protection device100may be determined by the application of the protection device. For example, the desired threshold speed of a protection device100may be 6 kilometers per hour in one or more directions. A protection device of the present disclosure uses mechanical components during operation to provide a reliable protection device without complicated electronics. The configuration of the fall protection device, including the speed and direction at which the locker is released, may be fine-tuned based on the type and gauge of components (e.g., springs) selected for the protection device. The protection device of the present disclosure also allows for bi-directional braking, allowing the device to be used in various operations involving any orientation of the protection device, such as vertical, horizontal, and inclined operations without alteration. Example embodiments including bi-directional configurations allow the user to change between different applications, such as horizontal, vertical, or inclined, without having to remove and/or alter the protection device connection with the guide member. Moreover, the robust designs according to embodiments discussed herein enable a single device to be used for protection in any configuration involving a compatible guide member, rather than requiring multiple devices for different applications, which may be less cost effective and more dangerous. In such embodiments, the reliability of the protection device is higher than in the prior art as the protection device does not have to be removed from a cable, which can create problems related to installation.

Referring now toFIG. 1A, a portion of a protection device for navigating a guide member125(e.g., a cable) is provided. As shown inFIG. 14, the protection device100may have a housing135and a braking mechanism frame165. In some embodiments, the housing135may include one or more guide surfaces75,80that surrounds a portion of the guide member on which the protection device100is navigating. In some embodiments, the wheel may be rotatably attached to the housing135at least on one side of the wheel (e.g., along the first axis60). In such embodiments, the wheel may be at least partially exposed. In some embodiments, the housing135may encapsulate the wheel. In such embodiments, the wheel may be rotatably attached to the housing at both sides of the first axis60. In some embodiment, the axis60may define an axle having a keyed hub to rotationally lock the axle relative to the housing, while the wheel130is permitted to rotate thereabout. In some embodiments, the housing135may, in combination with any braking mechanism frames165, provide protection for the wheel, locker(s), centrifugal actuator(s), and/or locker engagement mechanism(s).

In some embodiments, a wheel130is provided to engage with the guide member125. In some embodiments, the wheel130is rotatable around a first axis60. In various embodiments, the wheel130may be different sizes based on the application of a given protection device100. For example, the wheel may have a diameter of 50 millimeters. In some embodiments, the wheel130may have a larger diameter to increase stability of the protection device. In some embodiments, the wheel130may have a smaller diameter to allow for a more compact and lighter overall protection device. The wheel130may be rotate along a guide member, such as a cable, wire, rope, or the like. In some embodiments, the wheel may define a groove to engage the guide member. Alternatively, the wheel130may have a flat exterior that is held in contact with the guide member through friction or by exterior force (e.g., the housing135may hold the guide member and wheel together during operation).

In some embodiments, a larger amount of friction between the wheel and the guide member may be preferred. In some embodiments, the wheel130may be made of a nickel alloy, which may enforce friction between the guide member and wheel. For example, with reference toFIGS. 6-8B, the housing135may include one or more guide surfaces75,80configured to at least partially surround and capture the guide member125between the guide surfaces and the wheel to hold the protection device100on the guide member.

With reference toFIGS. 6-8b, in some embodiments, a braking mechanism frame165may be provided. The braking mechanism frame165may be movably be attached to the housing135, such that the braking mechanism frame165is configured to move vertically (e.g., up and/or down) relative to the housing in the depicted orientation (e.g., through slots, such as slot260, in the housing), although it should be understood that “vertically” may refer to any absolute direction depending upon the angle of the assembly. In some embodiments, the braking mechanism frame165may be movably attached to the actuator plate145such that the braking mechanism frame165and the actuator plate145are configured to move laterally (e.g., left and/or right) relative to each other, although it should be understood that “laterally” may refer to any absolute direction depending upon the angle of the assembly. The braking mechanism frame165may include two plates250on each side of the wheel130attached to one another with two or more frame connectors255. In some embodiments, braking mechanism frame165may define a first spring attachment surface190on a first frame connector and a second spring attachment surface195on a second frame connector, the first and second frame connects being on opposite sides of the braking mechanism frame165configured to attach one or more springs to each respective spring attachment surface. As discussed in more detail below in relation toFIG. 7, a locker engagement mechanism110may have two locker engagement mechanism springs30,35attached at one end to a respective locker engagement mechanism spring screw180,185and at a second end to a respective spring attachment surface190,195(e.g., in the embodiment shown inFIG. 7, one or more of the second locker engagement mechanism springs35is attached to the second locker engagement spring screw185at one end and the second spring attachment surface195at the other end). Additionally, the locker springs40,45discussed below may also be attached to a respective spring attachment surface190,195of the frame connectors255.

In various embodiments, the protection device100may have a centrifugal actuator105. In some embodiments, the centrifugal actuator105may be located within the wheel. In an example embodiment, with reference toFIG. 12, the centrifugal actuator105may be spring-biased to rotate based on the speed of the wheel130. In such embodiments, the amount of spring bias may affect the threshold speed at which the centrifugal actuator105rotates causing the locker engagement mechanism110to release the locker115. In some embodiments, the speed of the wheel at which the centrifugal actuator is engaged is based on the application being used. For example, in some applications, such as for human fall protection, the rate of speed allowed may be less than for other objects. The centrifugal actuator105may be configured to adjust the speed at which the wheel engages the centrifugal actuator105based on the springs used in the centrifugal actuator. The centrifugal actuator105may be rotationally affixed to the wheel via one or more screws, pins, or other attachment means. For example, one or both of the centrifugal component arms20,25may have a centrifugal coupling point21, as shown inFIG. 12, configured to allow the centrifugal actuator105to be attached to the wheel130. In some embodiments, the centrifugal actuator may include a pair of centrifugal component arms20,25and a pair of centrifugal actuator springs50,55that are configured to resist expansion of the centrifugal component arms20,25, such that the centrifugal component arms do not engage the locker engagement mechanism110until the wheel130is at or above a certain speed. For example, the centrifugal actuator105may be configured such that the centrifugal actuator springs50,55provide a resistance to the expansion of the centrifugal component arms, such that the centrifugal component arms expand to engage with a locker engagement mechanism at or above a threshold speed. In some embodiments, the centrifugal component arms20,25may each have an actuating protrusion22, which may extend radially outwardly. In an example embodiment, the actuating protrusion22may be positioned at a distance away from the centrifugal coupling point21, such that as the wheel speed increases in a particular direction, one or both of the centrifugal component arms20,25may rotate about the respective centrifugal coupling point21moving the respective actuating protrusion22outwardly until the respective actuating protrusion engages with the associated locker engagement mechanism.

In various embodiments, a locker engagement mechanism110may be configured to engage with the centrifugal actuator105to control the braking operations discussed herein. In some embodiments, the locker engagement mechanism110may be actuated by the centrifugal actuator105at or above a certain speed of the wheel in one or more directions. For example, at or above a certain speed of the wheel130in one or more directions, the centrifugal actuator105may be cause the locker engagement mechanism110to rotate when the actuating protrusion22moves outwardly sufficiently to engage with the locker engagement mechanism. In various embodiments, the locker engagement mechanism110may be engageable with the centrifugal actuator105, such that when the centrifugal actuator is rotated based on the speed of the wheel, the locker engagement mechanism is actuated and rotated. In some embodiments, the locker engagement mechanism110may be configured to restrict the rotation of a locker115around the second axis65, depending upon the braking condition of the protection device. As discussed below in relation toFIG. 7, the locker engagement mechanism may be spring biased, such that motion is restricted even during the actuation of the centrifugal actuator105.

As shown inFIGS. 13A and 13B, the locker engagement mechanism110may be a ring configured to rotate concentrically with the wheel about the first axis60. In some embodiment, the ring may be engageable with the centrifugal actuator on an interior side and engageable with a locker on an exterior side, such that the locker engagement mechanism may rotate when engaged by the centrifugal actuator105. In some embodiments, the ring may have one or more interior protrusions90on the interior side of the ring and/or one or more exterior protrusions on the exterior side of the ring (e.g., the exterior protrusions of the exterior side of the ring may be the engagement member85of a given locker engagement mechanism). In some embodiments, the exterior protrusions may be engaged with the locker holder mechanism10of a locker115,120, such that the rotational movement of the locker is restricted by the exterior protrusion. In some embodiments, the one or more interior protrusions90of the ring may be disposed in the same plane as and may be configured to engage with the actuating protrusions22of the centrifugal actuator105, such that the centrifugal actuator causes the locker engagement mechanism110to rotate about the first axis60. In some embodiments, in an instance when a locker and the ring are engaged, at or above a threshold wheel speed in a certain direction, the centrifugal actuator105may engage the ring causing the ring to release the locker115,120, such that the locker is allowed to rotate. Each side of the wheel may include substantially the same mechanism in some embodiments.

In some embodiments, the locker engagement mechanism110may have an engagement member85configured to engage the locker115to restrict the rotation of the locker115. In an example embodiment, the engagement member85of the locker engagement mechanism may be an exterior protrusion, as described above, provided along a circumferential edge of the locker engagement mechanism. In such an embodiment, as shown inFIG. 2, the locker engagement mechanism110may define a ring shape that is concentric with the wheel on which the protrusion is located. As shown, when the locker is engaged in an operational (e.g., non-braking) position, a locker holder mechanism10of the locker115is in forcible communication with the underside of the engagement member85(e.g., a protrusion) of the locker engagement mechanism110to prevent rotation of the locker115as described herein. The underside of the engagement member85may define an arcuate surface having a constant radial distance from the axis60.

Turning toFIGS. 1A-3, the wheel130, locker engagement mechanism110, centrifugal actuator105, locker115, and guide member125are shown in isolation to demonstrate the operation and release of the locker to cause the protection device to brake. As shown inFIGS. 1A-1B, the locker115may be configured around the second axis65, such that the locker115may rotatably engage the braking surface (e.g., a surface of the guide member125). As shown inFIG. 7, the locker115may be rotatably attached to the housing135about the second axis65and a spring40may continually apply a rotational force to the locker115towards the braking position (e.g., a clockwise force for the right locker115and a counter-clockwise force for the left locker120shown relative to the view ofFIG. 7). With reference toFIG. 1B, the locker115may have a locker holder mechanism10and a braking surface engagement mechanism15. For example, the locker holder mechanism10may be an arm extending from the second axis65to allow the locker115to engage the locker engagement mechanism110, and the braking surface engagement mechanism15may be a pawl that is configured to engage the braking surface (e.g., an upper surface of a cable) to brake the protection device. In some embodiments, the locker holder mechanism10and the braking surface engagement mechanism may be an integral piece. Alternatively, the locker holder mechanism10and the braking surface engagement mechanism may be separately pieces formed together (e.g., such as welding).

In some embodiments, the locker holder mechanism10and the braking surface engagement mechanism15may be configured such that when the locker holder mechanism10is engaged by a locker engagement mechanism110, the braking surface engagement mechanism15is not in contact with the braking surface. In some embodiments, the locker holder mechanism10may be configured such that when the locker holder mechanism10is engaged with the locker engagement mechanism110in a non-braking configuration, the braking surface engagement mechanism15is not in contact with the braking surface (e.g., the guide member125). In various embodiments, the braking surface engagement mechanism15may be configured to engage the braking surface to sufficiently stop the motion of the protection device. In some embodiments, the braking surface engagement mechanism15may be a sufficient size to completely stop the motion of the protection device100when the braking surface engagement mechanism15engages the guide member125. The braking surface engagement mechanism15may define an arcuate end with a varying radius configured to engage the guide member, and a radius of the braking surface engagement mechanism (e.g., a distance from the axis65to the surface at the end of the braking surface engagement mechanism) may increase circumferentially relative to the axis65, such that the initial contact point between the braking surface and the braking surface engagement mechanism is at an area of lower radius and a final resting position (e.g., the position shown inFIGS. 10A-10B) is at an area of higher radius and increased braking force. In some embodiments, the varying radius of the braking surface engagement mechanism15may cause the braking force to increase over time during deployment of the brake until the braking surface engagement mechanism comes to rest at a position of maximum braking force to stop the wheel (e.g., the position shown inFIGS. 10A-10B). In the embodiments depicted in the figures, the size and shape of the lockers115,120, including the braking surface engagement mechanism15, and their interaction with the remaining assembly components may be configured to facilitate braking in this manner.

In various embodiments, the braking surface may include a wire, cable, rope, or the like. The braking surface engagement mechanism15may be made out of steel (e.g., stainless steel), other metals, or the like. In some embodiments, the material selected for the first locker115and/or second locker120may be based on maximizing the coefficient of friction between the first locker115or second locker120and the braking surface (e.g., the surface of the guide member125). In some embodiments, the environment of use may affect the material used for the first locker115and/or second locker120. For example, stainless steel may be used in outdoor applications.

Referring now toFIGS. 2A and 2B, the releasing progression of the locker115is illustrated in accordance with an example embodiment of the present disclosure. In an example embodiment, as the wheel130travels along the guide member125, when the speed of the wheel is at or above a first threshold speed, the arms of the centrifugal actuator105will expand outwardly until the pawls engage the locker engagement mechanism110. In the depicted embodiment, the rotation of the wheel130and centrifugal actuator105after engagement with the locker engagement mechanism110causes the locker engagement mechanism to rotate with the wheel, which releases the locker115to rotate about the second axis65under the force of the spring to engage with the braking surface.

As shown inFIG. 2A, in an instance when the protection device100is travelling at or above a threshold speed in a first direction, the centrifugal actuator105rotates the locker engagement mechanism110to release the locker115. For example, as shown, the locker engagement mechanism110may rotate clockwise to release the locker holder mechanism10of the locker115. In an example embodiment, when the locker115is in a first position (Position I inFIG. 2A), the braking surface engagement mechanism15is not in contact with the braking surface and the locker115is restricted from rotating by the locker engagement mechanism110being in contact with the locker holder mechanism10. In such an example, as the locker115is released by the locker engagement mechanism110, the locker115may rotate around the second axis65to a braking position (Position II inFIG. 2A) and the braking surface engagement mechanism15may contact the braking surface (e.g., the cable125). In some embodiments, the braking surface may be a surface of the wheel. For example, the locker may be configured to engage with the wheel130when released by the locker engagement mechanism and the friction between the wheel and the cable may stop the protection device motion. As shown in more detail inFIG. 2B, as the locker engagement mechanism110rotates, the engagement member (e.g., a protrusion as shown inFIG. 2B) may rotate such that the locker holder mechanism10and the engagement member are no longer in forcible communication allowing the locker to rotate from position I to position II. One skilled in the art would understand, in light of the present disclosure, that slight changes may be made to the locker115based on the type of guide member125used.

Referring now toFIG. 3, the locker115in accordance with an example embodiment is shown after being released by the locker engagement mechanism110and being engaged with the guide member125. As discussed in relation toFIGS. 2A-2B, the locker115may be configured, when released by the locker engagement mechanism110, to rotate around the second axis to engage the braking surface. In an example embodiment, a braking surface engagement mechanism15of the locker115engaged with the guide member125, such as the cable. As shown inFIGS. 1A-1B, when the wheel130is below a threshold speed, the locker remains engagement with locker engagement mechanism110and does not inhibit the motion of the wheel. In various embodiments, as the locker is released, the locker may remain released and engaged in the guide member until the locker115is reset, such as discussed inFIG. 9. In some embodiments, after one of the lockers115,120has been released by a locker engagement mechanism110, a locker engagement mechanism stop may contact the locker engagement mechanism to limit further rotation of the locker engagement mechanism110. In some embodiments, stopping the rotation of the locker engagement mechanism110may cause the wheel130to slip on the guide member125. For example, the locker engagement mechanism stop may be configured to engage when the locker engagement mechanism110has rotated in either direction by 20 to 30 degrees (e.g., the locker engagement mechanism may be limited to a total rotational range of 40 to 60 degrees centered about vertical).

In the example embodiment depicted inFIGS. 1A-3, the wheel may only trigger the locker115when rotating clockwise because rotating the locker engagement mechanism110counter clockwise would move the engagement member higher up onto the locker115rather than releasing the locker. The engagement member of the locker engagement mechanism110may be sufficiently long (e.g., extending 120 degrees about the locker engagement mechanism) that the locker does not release when rotating in one direction (e.g., rotating counter-clockwise relative to the locker and positions shown inFIGS. 1A-3). In some embodiments, the locker115is configured to apply a braking force in one direction of motion. For example, in the position shown inFIG. 3, movement of the protection device left-to-right relative to the guide member125(e.g., cable) causes the locker115to bite down into the cable while applying an upward force on the protection device (e.g., to squeeze the cable between the braking surface engagement mechanism15of the locker and the one or more guide surfaces of the housing (shown inFIG. 7)). Movement of the depicted protection device right-to-left relative to the guide member125would cause the locker to be rotated counter-clockwise to lessen the pressure on the guide member. As described herein, the protection device according to some embodiments discussed herein thereby uses two lockers on opposite sides of the wheel130to cause braking in both directions within the same assembly.

Referring now toFIG. 4, a flowchart illustrating the method of operation for a protection device in accordance with the present disclosure is provided. The flowchart illustrates example operations in which one or more lockers are engaged with a braking surface based on the speed of the wheel130. In some embodiments, the protection device100may be configured with one locker, such that the protection device100may only be configured to carry out Blocks400through430and not Blocks440through460. In some embodiments, when the first locker115or the second locker120is released and engages a braking surface, the protection device will stop such that the other locker will remain engaged with the locker engagement mechanism associated with such locker.

Referring now to Block400ofFIG. 4, the method of operating the protection device for navigating the guide member includes engaging a wheel130with the guide member. The wheel130is configured such that the wheel may freely rotate along a guide member at a certain range of speeds. In some embodiments, the protection device100may be configured to employ a braking device (e.g., lockers115,120) in one or both directions of operation. In an example embodiment, one locker115of the protection device100may be configured as shown inFIGS. 1-3and Blocks410through430ofFIG. 4, such that the locker engages a braking surface when the wheel is at or above a threshold speed in the first direction. In some embodiments with two lockers, the protection device100may include a second locker, such as the locker120, shown and described inFIGS. 4-8. The lockers may be configured to respectively deploy to brake the protection device in an instance where the wheel is rotating at or above a first threshold speed in a first direction and a second threshold speed in a second direction. Unless otherwise noted, the first locker115and the second locker120may operate using identical structures disposed on opposite sides of the wheel130(e.g., the operation of the second locker120inFIGS. 5-8is identical to the operation of locker115inFIGS. 1A-3).

Referring now to Block410ofFIG. 4, in an instance when the wheel speed is at or above a first threshold speed in a first direction, the method of operating the protection device for navigating the guide member125includes engaging and rotating a centrifugal actuator105operatively coupled with the wheel130. As shown inFIG. 7, the centrifugal actuator may include a plurality of centrifugal component arms (e.g., arms20,25). In some embodiments, the centrifugal component arms20,25may be attached to one another by one or more springs (e.g., centrifugal springs50,55). The centrifugal springs50,55may be selected based on the wheel speed desired. In an example embodiment, as the wheel spins faster, the centrifugal components begin to move with the centrifugal springs configured to restrict the rotation of the centrifugal actuator105. As discussed above in more detail in reference toFIG. 12, in some embodiments, the centrifugal component arms20,25may be configured with actuating protrusions configured to engage with a locker engagement mechanism110at or above a certain speed in one or more directions. One skilled in the art would understand other methods of centrifugal rotation possible to be used in the protection device100.

Referring now to Block420ofFIG. 4, the method of operating the protection device for navigating the guide member125includes actuating a locker engagement mechanism110with the centrifugal actuator105to release a first locker115(e.g., allowing the centrifugal actuator105to expand into engagement with the locker engagement mechanism110to rotate the locker engagement mechanism about the axis60). In some embodiments, the first locker115may be released when the wheel130speed is at or above the first threshold speed in the first direction. In some embodiments, the first locker115may remain engaged when the wheel speed in the first direction is below the first threshold speed and anytime the wheel is moving in a second, opposite direction. In some embodiments, such as shown inFIG. 7, locker engagement mechanism springs30,35may be provided with one end attached to one of the first or second spring attachment surfaces190,195of the braking mechanism frame165and the other end attached to the locker engagement mechanism110. For example, the locker engagement mechanism110may have one or more screws attached to removably affix one or more springs to the locker engagement mechanism110. In some embodiments, such as shown inFIG. 7, the two locker engagement mechanism springs30,35may be attached to one of the first or second spring attachment surfaces190,195of the braking mechanism frame165at opposite side so the wheel, such that the springs provide a force in opposite directions of one another restricting the amount of movement of the locker engagement mechanism110.

Referring now to Block430ofFIG. 4, the method of operating a protection device for navigating the guide member includes rotating the first locker115to engage with a braking surface after releasing the first locker. As discussed above in relation toFIGS. 2A, 2B, and 3, the locker115may be released when the locker engagement mechanism110is actuated by the centrifugal actuator105. In some embodiments, the first locker115may be spring biased, such that when the locker engagement mechanism110releases the first locker115, the first locker is urged by the spring into engagement with the braking surface. After either locker115,120is released, the locker may remain in the braking position even after the wheel slows below the threshold speed until the locker is reset by the user as described herein. For example, the locker engaging mechanism110inFIG. 3has returned to a neutral position while the locker115remains engaged with the guide member125.

In some embodiments, the first locker115rotates around the second axis65. For example, the first locker115may be received by a locker slot175in the housing135along the second axis65, such that the first locker115may be rotatably movable around the second axis. Similarly, as shown inFIGS. 6-8B, in some embodiments the second locker120may be received by another locker slot175in the housing135along the third axis70. In some embodiments, the first locker115may have a first locker spring40attached at one end to a first spring attachment surface190of the braking mechanism frame165and another end to the first locker115, such as a bolt170attached to the first locker115. The first locker spring40may be used to determine the amount of force applied to the braking surface. For example, the stronger the first locker spring40, the less force applied to the braking surface by the first locker.

Referring now to Block440ofFIG. 4, in an instance when the wheel speed is at or above a second threshold speed in a second direction, the method of operating the protection device for navigating the guide member includes engaging and rotating a centrifugal actuator operatively coupled with the wheel. In some embodiments, the centrifugal actuator engaged is the same centrifugal actuator engaged in Block410. Alternatively, a second centrifugal actuator may be provided in line with the centrifugal actuator discussed above in relation to Block410. In some embodiments, a protection device100may have two or more centrifugal actuators105, such as shown inFIG. 5, where a first centrifugal actuator is shown on one side of the wheel in communication with the first locker115and then a second centrifugal actuator on the other side of the wheel (not shown) is in communication with the second locker120. As discussed herein with reference toFIG. 12, in some embodiments, the centrifugal component arms20,25may be configured with respective actuating protrusions configured to engage with a locker engagement mechanism110at or above a certain speed in one or more directions.

Referring now to Block450ofFIG. 4, the method of operating a protection device for navigating the guide member includes actuating a second locker engagement mechanism with the centrifugal actuator to release a second locker120(e.g., allowing the centrifugal actuator to expand into engagement with the locker engagement mechanism to rotate the locker engagement mechanism about the axis60). The release of the second locker120may be identical to the release of the first locker115as described above in reference to Block420ofFIG. 4(e.g., the locker engagement mechanism may release the second locker at or above the second threshold speed in the second direction in the same way the first locker is released at or above the first threshold speed in the first direction). In some embodiments, the second locker engagement mechanism may be configured identically to the locker engagement mechanism discussed throughout. In some embodiments, the second locker may be engaged by the same locker engagement mechanism as the first locker115, such that the second locker120is released when the locker engagement mechanism rotates in the opposite direction as for the first locker115. For example, the second locker120may have a second locker spring45attached at one end to the second spring attachment surface195of the braking mechanism frame165and at the other end to the second locker120, such as a bolt170attached to the second locker120. In some embodiments, the second locker120may be engaged with a different locker engagement mechanism than the first locker115. For example, a separate centrifugal actuator105and locker engagement mechanism110may be provided on either sides of the wheel (e.g., the wheel may be symmetrical). In some embodiments, the same locker engagement mechanism110may be used for the second locker120as the first locker115. For example, in an instance that the wheel speed is at or above a first threshold speed in a first direction, the locker engagement mechanism110may release the first locker115, while the second locker120remains engaged, and in an instance that the wheel speed is at or above a second threshold speed in a second direction, the second locker120may be released, while the first locker115remains engaged. In such an example, the first threshold speed in the first direction may be the same speed as the second threshold speed in the second direction. In some embodiments, as described herein, a second locker engagement mechanism and centrifugal actuator, structured as shown in the locker engagement mechanism and centrifugal actuator discussed herein, may operate the second locker120on the opposite side of the wheel.

Referring now to Block460ofFIG. 4, the method of operating a protection device for navigating the guide member includes rotating the second locker120to engage with a braking surface after the second locker is released. In some embodiments, the braking surface engaged by the second locker120may be the same surface engaged by the first locker115when activated. For example, as shown inFIG. 6, the guide member (e.g., cable125) may be the braking surface engaged by both the first locker115and the second locker120when each locker is engaged with the braking surface (e.g., guide member cable125) during the respective braking actions in either direction of movement. In some embodiments, the first locker115and the second locker120engage different sections of the guide member. In some embodiments, the first locker115and the second locker120may be configured to engage different surfaces (e.g., one locker may engage the guide member and the other locker may engage the wheel). In some embodiments, the second locker120may be spring biased, such that when a locker engagement mechanism110releases the second locker120, the second locker is urged by the spring into engagement with the braking surface. After either locker115,120is released, the respective locker may remain in the braking position even after the wheel slows below the threshold speed until the locker is reset by the user as described herein. For example, the locker engaging mechanism110inFIG. 3has returned to a neutral position while the locker115remains engaged with the guide member125.

Referring now toFIG. 8A, an exterior view of the protection device100is shown with an actuator arm140and an actuator plate145configured to reset the locker(s) into the engaged position with one or more locker engagement mechanism110. As discussed in relation toFIG. 9below, the actuator arm140is configured to move the actuator plate145to cause one or more of the locker(s) to be engaged with at least one locker engagement mechanism. In an example embodiment, the first locker actuator plate connector150is attached to the first locker115at the second axis65at one end and the first locker actuator plate connector150at the other end and movable by the actuator plate145. For example, as shown inFIG. 8A, each of the locker actuator plate connectors150,155are engaged (e.g., via pins) through a top slot200and a bottom slot205. In an example embodiment, the respective locker actuator plate connector is attached to the braking mechanism frame165through the top slot200and to the respective locker115,120through the bottom slot205. In some embodiments, each of the first locker actuator plate connector may have their own respective top slots200and/or bottom slots205. In such an embodiment, as the first locker actuator plate connection150may be rotated back with the locker engagement mechanism.

In some embodiments, the actuator arm140may be configured to be rotatable around a first arm attachment point210where the actuator arm is coupled with the housing135. In such an embodiment, the actuator arm140may be connected to a actuator plate bolt220, the actuator plate bolt220may be configured to be received by an actuator arm slot225and attached to the braking mechanism frame165at one end and the actuator arm at the other end. In such embodiments, the actuator plate bolt220may be configured such that as the actuator arm140is rotated, the actuator plate145travels along the actuator arm slot225causing horizontal motion (e.g., horizontal referenced from position of protection device inFIGS. 8A and 8B) for the actuator plate145. The actuator arm140may have an actuator arm attachment160connected at actuator arm attachment point215that allow for the protection device to be attached to a user and/or object. The actuator arm attachment160may define a series of convoluted structures that collectively absorb the shock of a large load at the end of the attachment (e.g., a user's safety harness may be attached to the ring at the end of the actuator arm attachment160). In some embodiments, the actuator arm140may be designed to withstand a certain static tension load based on the application of the protection device100. For example, the actuator arm140may be designed to withstand a static tension load of 16 kN.

Referring now toFIG. 9, a flowchart illustrating the reset mechanism of a protection device in accordance with the present disclosure is provided. Reset mechanisms, such as those shown and describe with respect toFIGS. 8A, 8B, and 10A-11Ballow for effective operation of protection devices by allowing quick manual resets after a locker has triggered and seized against the braking surface. The reset mechanisms described herein also allow the protection device to remain locked at a fixed position on the guide member until the user deems it safe to release the locker. Thus, as described herein, once the respective threshold speeds have been met in the respective directions of motion, the respective lockers may engage and not release until reset.

Referring now to Block900ofFIG. 9, the method of resetting the protection device (e.g., releasing the locker(s) from the braking surface) may include moving an actuator arm140in a first engaging direction. As shown inFIG. 10A, at a first released position of the actuator arm140, the first locker115is engaged with the cable125. The first connector150is rotationally locked (e.g., with a key and corresponding slot) to the locker115, such that triggering of the locker rotates the upper end of the first connector from the position shown inFIG. 8A, in which the first connector is angled inwardly toward the actuator arm140, to the position shown inFIG. 10A, in which the first connector is angled outwardly. In the depicted embodiment, rotating the actuator arm140in a counter-clockwise direction from the position shown inFIG. 10Ato the position shown inFIG. 11Acauses the actuator145plate to pull the upper end of the first connector150and rotate both the first connector and first locker115. In an example embodiment, as shown inFIG. 11A, the actuator arm140may be moved in first direction from the first released (e.g., triggered) position (e.g.,FIG. 10A) to a second engaged (e.g., reset) position (e.g.,FIG. 11A).

Referring now to Block910ofFIG. 9, based on the movement of the actuator arm140in the first engaging direction, the method of resetting the protection device may include the actuator plate145causing a first locker115to rotatably engage the locker engagement mechanism110to deflect the locker engagement mechanism downwardly and reset the locker holder mechanism10(shown inFIG. 1) beneath the engagement member of the locker engagement mechanism such that the locker is reset and no longer braking and spring40of the locker115again urges the locker against the locker engagement mechanism. In an example embodiment, as the actuator arm140is moved from the first released position to the second engaged position, the actuator plate145may be moved from a released position to a reset position causing the first locker actuator plate connector150to move, as seen betweenFIGS. 10A and 10B, cause the first locker115to rotate.

Referring now to Block920ofFIG. 9, the method of resetting the protection device may include moving the actuator arm140in a second engaging direction to reset the second locker120in the same manner as resetting the first locker. The second locker may be reset whenever the locker is triggered, independent of the trigger and reset of the first locker. In some embodiments, the actuator plate145may be configured symmetrically and may have an actuator plate on both sides of the housing, such that when the actuator arm140is moved into the second engaging direction, that the actuator plate145engages the second locker actuator plate connector155in the same manner as the actuator plate engages the first locker actuator plate connector150in Block910.

Referring now to Block930ofFIG. 9, based on the movement of the actuator arm140in the second engaging direction, the method of resetting the protection device100may include the actuator plate145causing a second locker120to rotatably engage the second locker engagement mechanism. As the second locker actuator plate connector155is contacted by the actuator plate, the second locker120is caused to rotate about the third axis70until the locker holder mechanism of the second locker contacts and engages the engaging component of the second locker engagement mechanism in the same manner and structure as the first locker engagement mechanism110. In an example embodiment, when the first locker115and/or the second locker is engaged by one or more locker engagement mechanisms and the lockers are thereby retained in an operational, non-braking position, the wheel may then freely travel along the guide member.

Referring now toFIG. 14, an exterior view of a protection device100is provided in accordance with an example embodiment of the present embodiment. In some embodiments, the protection device100may be bilaterally symmetrical, such that all, or part, of the described components herein of one half of the device are mirrored in the other half of the device. For example, there may be an actuator plate145on each side of the housing, such that separate actuator arms140may be provided. In such embodiments, the plurality of actuator arms may be connected to one another, as shown inFIG. 14, such that one motion will move the actuator arms140and actuator plates145on both sides of the protection device100. Additionally, in some embodiments, only some of the components described herein may be mirrored. For example, a housing may only be provided on one side of the wheel.