Patent Description:
In various applications, safety harnesses are used in work environments where there may be a risk of falling from an elevated position. In some applications, a user wearing a safety harness may be connected to a lanyard that is then attached to an anchor point. The lanyard is attached to the harness with a connector which is configured for removably connecting the safety harness with the lanyard.

A wide variety of connectors exists for various applications. In some examples, the connector is movable between a first position, where the connector securely connects the safety harness to the lanyard, and a second position, where the connector allows the safety harness to be disconnected from the lanyard. A two-action locking mechanism may be provided with some connectors to prevent inadvertent movement between the first and second positions. In some examples, the two-action locking mechanism may require two discrete actions by the user, such as two pulling, pushing, and/or twisting actions. A third action mechanism may be provided to open the connector from the first position to the second. For example, two discrete actions may be required to unlock the locking mechanism, while a third action is necessary to open the connector to allow the connector to be connected to the lanyard. Many of the existing connector designs are difficult to use when operating the two-action locking mechanism then to move the connector between the first and second position. Some connectors require the unlocking to be performed using both hands, thereby making it difficult to open the unlocked connector because the user does not have a free hand. Accordingly, there is a need in the art for an improved connector that overcomes the deficiencies associated with the existing devices.

An example of a locking pin system for use in a coupling mechanism is described in <CIT>. A further example is described in <CIT>, wherein the lock-pin includes a pin and a rotatable key. An example of a screwing connection device for a fall protection system is described in <CIT>.

Accordingly, and generally, provided is an improved connector for use in a fall arresting or fall protection system. Preferably, provided is an improved connector that overcomes the deficiencies of existing connectors.

The present invention provides a harness connector as defined in the appended claims. The connector includes a frame having a first end, a second end, and a pass-through opening extending between the first end and the second end along a longitudinal axis of the frame. The connector further includes a gate positioned between the first end and the second end of the frame and movable between a closed position to close the pass-through opening and an open position to open the pass-through opening. The connector further includes a locking mechanism for selectively locking the gate in the closed position. The locking mechanism has a rotatable knob connected to at least one of the first end and the second end of the frame and rotatable in a direction about the longitudinal axis and a locking indent on the gate configured for receiving at least a portion of the rotatable knob when the gate is in the closed position. The locking indent has a curved sloped portion arranged at an angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the gate and a recess arranged substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the gate.

According to some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, in the closed position, the gate may be connected to the first end and the second end of the frame, and, in the open position, the gate may be disconnected from at least one of the first end and the second end of the frame. In the claimed invention, the rotatable knob is rotatable between a first position permitting longitudinal movement of the gate between the first end and the second end of the frame and a second position preventing longitudinal movement of the gate when the gate is in the closed position. The rotatable knob may have a pin positioned within at least one of the first end and the second end of the frame. The rotatable knob may be biased to the second position by a first biasing member, such as a spring.

An outer sleeve surrounding at least a portion of the rotatable knob is provided. The outer sleeve is axially movable relative to the rotatable knob between a first position and a second position, wherein, in the first position of the outer sleeve, rotational movement of the rotatable knob is prevented, and wherein, in the second position of the outer sleeve, rotational movement of the rotatable knob is permitted. The outer sleeve may be operatively connected with the rotatable knob in the second position of the outer sleeve to permit rotational movement of the rotatable knob with rotational movement of the outer sleeve. The outer sleeve may be axially biased to the first position by a second biasing member.

According to some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the gate may have an elongated, substantially cylindrical body with a first end and a second end spaced apart along a longitudinal axis of the gate. The locking indent may be positioned at one of the first end and the second end of the gate. The locking indent may have a sloped portion arranged at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the gate and a recess arranged substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the gate. The recess may prevent opening of the gate without rotation of the rotatable knob. The sloped portion may be configured to automatically rotate the rotatable knob to receive the gate when the gate is pushed to a closed position. The locking indent may have a gap between the curved sloped portion and a sidewall of the gate and wherein a pin of the rotatable knob is guided within the gap along the curved sloped portion. The cylindrical body of the gate may be movable within a bore extending through the first end of the frame. The gate may have a track extending between the first end and the second end in a direction of the longitudinal axis. The frame may have a detent within the bore of at least one of the first end and the second end of the frame, the detent being received within the track of the gate to delimit longitudinal and rotational movement of the gate relative to the frame. The frame may have an attachment portion with an opening for receiving at least an element of a fall arrest system.

These and other features and characteristics of the present invention, as well as the methods of operation and functions of the related elements of structures and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding parts in the various figures.

Additional advantages and details of the invention are explained in greater detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments or aspects that are illustrated in the accompanying schematic figures, in which:.

Spatial or directional terms, such as "left", "right", "inner", "outer", "above", "below", and the like, are not to be considered as limiting as the invention can assume various alternative orientations. For purposes of the description hereinafter, the terms "end", "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "lateral", "longitudinal", and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as it is oriented in the drawing figures.

As used in the specification and the claims, the singular form of "a", "an", and "the" includes plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

All numbers used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about". "About" means a range of plus or minus ten percent of the stated value.

Unless otherwise indicated, all ranges or ratios disclosed herein are to be understood to encompass any and all subranges or subratios subsumed therein. For example, a stated range or ratio of "<NUM> to <NUM>" should be considered to include any and all subranges between (and inclusive of) the minimum value of <NUM> and the maximum value of <NUM>; that is, all subranges or subratios beginning with a minimum value of <NUM> or more and ending with a maximum value of <NUM> or less, such as but not limited to, <NUM> to <NUM>, <NUM> to <NUM>, and <NUM> to <NUM>.

The terms "first", "second", and the like are not intended to refer to any particular order or chronology, but instead refer to different conditions, properties, or elements.

By "at least" is meant "greater than or equal to". By "not greater than" is meant "less than or equal to".

It is to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply representative embodiments or aspects of the invention. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments or aspects disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting.

Referring to the drawings in which like reference characters refer to like parts throughout the several views thereof, the present disclosure is generally directed to a connector suitable for use in fall-arresting or fall prevention applications. With initial reference to <FIG>, and in one non-limiting embodiment or aspect, a harness to lanyard connector <NUM> (hereinafter referred to as "connector <NUM>") configured for use in a fall arrest/prevention system is shown. In various applications, the connector <NUM> is used to connect a harness and lanyard of the fall arrest/prevention system. The fall arrest/prevention system may be configured for use in industrial environments and recreational activities. The fall arrest/prevention system can be implemented in any appropriate application or environment where a user or worker engages in activities in an elevated position and requires protection in the event of a fall.

With continued reference to <FIG>, the connector <NUM> may have a first connector portion 100a (or harness connector ) configured for connecting with a first portion 101a of the fall arrest/prevention energy absorber <NUM> and a second portion 100b (or lanyard connector ) configured for connecting with a second portion 101b of the fall arrest/prevention energy absorber <NUM>. In some embodiments or aspects, the first portion 100a and the second portion 100b of the connector <NUM> may be detachably connected to one another, such as shown in <FIG>. In some embodiments or aspects, the first connector portion 100a may be configured for connecting with the first portion 101a, and a fall protection harness (with or without an energy absorber), while the second portion 100b may be configured for connecting with the second portion 101b, and a fall protection lanyard (with or without an energy absorber). In other embodiments or aspects, the connector <NUM> may only have the first connector portion 100a. In such embodiments or aspects, the connector <NUM> is connected to a fall protection harness (with or without an energy absorber) and to lanyard (with or without the energy absorber) that is connected to an anchor point.

With reference to <FIG>, the connector <NUM> is shown without the fall arrest/prevention energy absorber <NUM>. The first portion 100a of the connector <NUM> has a frame <NUM> having a substantially C-shaped form. With reference to <FIG>, which is an exploded view of the connector <NUM> shown in <FIG>, the frame <NUM> has a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM> connected to opposing ends of a spine <NUM>. The first end <NUM> is provided opposite the second end <NUM> with an opening <NUM> defined therebetween. The first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM> are angled relative to the spine <NUM> to define the C-shaped form of the connector <NUM>. In some embodiments or aspects, the first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM> may be arranged perpendicularly relative to the spine <NUM>. In other embodiments or aspects, at least one of the first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM> may be arranged at an acute or obtuse angle relative to the spine <NUM>.

The first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM> may be formed monolithically with the spine <NUM> such that the frame <NUM> is formed as a single, unitary component. In some embodiments or aspects, the first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM> may be formed separately from the spine <NUM> and removably or non-removably attached thereto. For example, the first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM> may connected to the spine <NUM> by welding, one or more fasteners, or other mechanical connection. The first end <NUM>, the second end <NUM>, and/or the spine <NUM> may have a uniform or non-uniform cross-sectional shape along the length thereof. The frame <NUM> may be made from metal, composite, combination of metal and composite, or other heavy duty material capable of withstanding loads that may be imparted on the connector <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, the first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM> have a first receiving bore <NUM> and a second receiving bore <NUM> extending in a direction along a longitudinal axis <NUM> of the frame <NUM>. A terminal portion of the first end <NUM> may be substantially cylindrical with the first receiving bore <NUM> extending therethrough. Similarly, a terminal portion of the second end <NUM> may have a substantially cylindrical shape with the second receiving bore <NUM> extending therethrough. The first receiving bore <NUM> and the second receiving bore <NUM> desirably have a cylindrical shape and are coaxial with one another. The first receiving bore <NUM> and the second receiving bore <NUM> are configured to slidably receive a gate <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). The first receiving bore <NUM> and the second receiving bore <NUM> have an inner diameter that is larger than an outer diameter of the body <NUM> of the gate <NUM> such that the gate <NUM> is movable within the first receiving bore <NUM> and the second receiving bore <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG>, the frame <NUM> has a connection bar <NUM> attached to the spine <NUM>. The connection bar <NUM> has a first end <NUM> connected to the spine <NUM> at the first end <NUM> of the frame <NUM>, and a second end <NUM> connected to the spine <NUM> at the second end <NUM> of the frame <NUM>. The connection bar <NUM> in conjunction with the spine <NUM> is configured as a loop having a central opening <NUM> configured for receiving at least a portion of the energy absorber <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). Alternately, other fall arrest/prevention components which themselves incorporate an energy absorber, or components without an energy absorber when the gate is connected to a harness which incorporates an energy absorber, can be connected to opening <NUM>. The connection bar <NUM> may have a slit <NUM> extending therethrough to allow insertion of at least a portion of the energy absorber <NUM>, such as an energy absorbing tear tape typically used in fall protection devices, from the pass through opening <NUM> into the central opening <NUM>. The slit <NUM> may be dimensioned such that it is wider than the thickness of the portion of the energy absorber <NUM> that is to be received within the central opening <NUM> of the connection bar <NUM>. The connection bar <NUM> may have one or more holes <NUM> extending therethrough, with each hole <NUM> configured for removably receiving a fastener <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) that connects the first portion 100a of the connector <NUM> with the second portion 100b. The one or more holes <NUM> may be threaded or smooth. The connection bar <NUM> may further have one or more protrusions <NUM> that are configured for insertion within the corresponding one or more recesses <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) on the second portion 100b of the connector <NUM> to prevent rotation of the first portion 100a relative to the second portion 100b when the two portions are connected together with the fastener <NUM>.

The gate <NUM> is movable relative to the first receiving bore <NUM> and the second receiving bore <NUM> between a closed position (<FIG>) to close the pass-through opening <NUM> and an open position (<FIG>) to open the pass-through opening <NUM>, as discussed herein. With the gate <NUM> in the closed position, the gate <NUM> is operatively engaged with the first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM> of the frame <NUM> such that movement of the gate <NUM> relative to the frame <NUM> is prevented. In this manner, the gate <NUM> encloses the opening <NUM> to prevent a harness strap (not shown) or other element from passing through the opening <NUM>. With the gate <NUM> in the open position, the gate <NUM> is freely slidable in a direction of the longitudinal axis <NUM> of the gate <NUM> between the first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM> of the frame <NUM>. In this manner, the gate <NUM> can be moved to open the opening <NUM> and allow a harness strap (not shown) or other element to be inserted through the opening <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, the gate <NUM> is shown in accordance with one preferred and non-limiting embodiment, example, or aspect of the present disclosure. The gate <NUM> has an elongated, substantially cylindrical body <NUM> with a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM> spaced apart along a longitudinal axis <NUM> of the gate <NUM>. The gate <NUM> has a track <NUM> extending between the first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM> in a direction of the longitudinal axis <NUM> of the gate <NUM>. The track <NUM> is configured a channel that is recessed into the body <NUM> of the gate <NUM>. A detent <NUM> within the second receiving bore <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) protrudes radially inward from the inner sidewall of the second receiving bore <NUM> and is received within the track <NUM>. In this manner, the detent <NUM> prevents rotational movement of the gate <NUM> while allowing longitudinal movement relative to the frame <NUM>. The detent <NUM> further prevents removal of the gate <NUM> from the frame <NUM> and limits the range of longitudinal movement of the gate <NUM> relative to the frame <NUM> based on the length of the track <NUM>. The detent <NUM> may be removable from the second receiving bore <NUM> to allow disassembly of the gate <NUM> from the frame <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG>, the second end <NUM> of the gate <NUM> has a gripping portion <NUM> that protrudes radially outward relative to the body <NUM> of the gate <NUM>. The gripping portion <NUM> has a stop end <NUM> having an outer diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the body <NUM> of the gate <NUM>. The stop end <NUM> may contact the second end <NUM> of the frame <NUM> when the gate <NUM> is in the closed position (<FIG>). The gripping portion <NUM> further has a bulbous terminal end <NUM> that protrudes radially outward relative to the stop end <NUM>. The terminal end <NUM> is configured for being grasped between the user's fingers to facilitate movement of the gate <NUM> relative to the frame <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG> and with reference to <FIG>, the first end <NUM> of the gate <NUM> has a locking indent <NUM> configured for interacting with a pin <NUM> (<FIG>) of a rotatable knob <NUM> at the first end <NUM> of the frame <NUM>. Together, the locking indent <NUM> and the pin <NUM> of the rotatable knob <NUM> define a locking mechanism <NUM> for selectively locking the gate <NUM> in the closed position (<FIG>). The locking indent <NUM> has a sloped portion <NUM> that is recessed radially inward into the body <NUM> of the gate <NUM>. The sloped portion <NUM> has a first end 144a at a terminal end <NUM> of the first end <NUM> of the gate <NUM> and a second end 144b opposite the first end 144a extending at an angle α relative to the longitudinal axis <NUM> of the gate <NUM>. In some embodiments or aspects, angle α may be about <NUM>° to about <NUM>°. The sloped portion <NUM> may be substantially linear between the first end 144a and the second end 144b. The second end 144b of the sloped portion <NUM> opens into a recess <NUM> that is recessed radially inward into the body <NUM> of the gate <NUM> and that is arranged substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis <NUM> of the gate <NUM>. The recess <NUM> is configured to receive the pin <NUM> of the rotatable knob <NUM> (<FIG>) when the gate <NUM> is locked with the frame <NUM>. A gap <NUM> is provided in the recess <NUM> between the second end 144b of the sloped portion <NUM> and the outer surface of body <NUM>. As described herein, the locking indent <NUM>, defined by the sloped portion <NUM>, the gap <NUM>, and the recess <NUM>, is configured for receiving at least a portion of the rotatable knob when the gate <NUM> is the in the closed position.

With reference to <FIG>, the gate <NUM> is shown in accordance with another preferred and non-limiting embodiment, example, or aspect of the present disclosure. The components of the gate <NUM> shown in <FIG> are substantially similar or identical to the components of the gate <NUM> described herein with reference to <FIG>. As the previous discussion regarding the gate <NUM> generally shown in <FIG> is applicable to the gate <NUM> generally shown in <FIG>, only the relative differences between the two gates <NUM> are discussed hereinafter.

As described herein, the locking indent <NUM>, defined by the sloped portion <NUM>, the gap <NUM>, and the recess <NUM>, is configured for receiving at least a portion of the rotatable knob when the gate <NUM> is the in the closed position. Whereas the gate <NUM> in <FIG> has a linear sloped portion <NUM>, the gate <NUM> in <FIG> has a curved sloped portion <NUM>. The sloped portion <NUM> is recessed radially inward into the body <NUM> of the gate <NUM> from an exterior surface of the body <NUM>. The sloped portion <NUM> has a first end 145a at a terminal end <NUM> of the first end <NUM> of the gate <NUM> and a second end 145b opposite the first end 145a extending along a curved surface. In some embodiments or aspects, the sloped portion <NUM> may have a compound curve shape. The shape of the curved surface of the sloped portion <NUM> is selected to guide the pin <NUM> of the rotatable knob <NUM> (<FIG>) without causing the pin <NUM> to interfere with any portion of the locking indent <NUM> as the pin <NUM> is moved along the curved surface of the sloped portion <NUM>. The second end 145b of the sloped portion <NUM> opens into a recess <NUM> that is recessed radially inward into the body <NUM> of the gate <NUM> from an exterior surface of the body <NUM>. The recess <NUM> is formed as a pocket that is arranged substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis <NUM> of the gate <NUM> and is configured to receive the pin <NUM> of the rotatable knob <NUM> when the gate <NUM> is locked with the frame <NUM>. The recess <NUM> is connected to a gap <NUM> formed between the sloped portion <NUM> and a sidewall <NUM> of the body <NUM>. The gap <NUM> is configured to guide the pin <NUM> as the pin <NUM> moves between the first end 145a of the sloped portion <NUM> and the recess <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, the rotatable knob <NUM> is connected with the first end <NUM> of the frame <NUM> and is rotatable relative thereto about the longitudinal axis <NUM>. In some embodiments or aspects, the rotatable knob <NUM> is rotatable relative to the frame <NUM> in one direction only, such as clockwise or counterclockwise, about the longitudinal axis <NUM>. In other embodiments or aspects, the rotatable knob <NUM> is rotatable relative to the frame <NUM> in two directions, such as clockwise and counterclockwise, about the longitudinal axis <NUM>. As described herein, the rotatable knob <NUM> is rotatable between a first position permitting longitudinal movement of the gate <NUM> between the first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM> of the frame <NUM> and a second position preventing longitudinal movement of the gate <NUM> when the gate <NUM> is in the closed position (<FIG>).

With reference to <FIG>, a first portion 140a of the rotatable knob <NUM> is configured to be inserted into the first receiving bore <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) while a second portion 140b of the rotatable knob <NUM> protrudes axially outward from the first receiving bore <NUM>. In some examples, the first receiving bore <NUM> may have a plurality of portions having different internal diameters (see <FIG>). In some examples, the internal diameter of the first receiving bore <NUM> may increase in a series of steps in a direction from the opening <NUM> toward a terminal end of the first end <NUM>. The second portion 140b of the rotatable knob <NUM> has a larger outer diameter compared to the inner first portion 140a and is configured to slidably connect with an outer sleeve <NUM> which is to be grasped by the user's fingers for rotating the rotatable knob <NUM>. The first portion 140a has a hollow interior with a central opening <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) that is configured to receive the first end <NUM> of the gate <NUM>. Desirably, the inner diameter of the central opening <NUM> is larger than the outer diameter of the body <NUM> of the gate <NUM> such that the gate <NUM> may be freely inserted into the central opening <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG>, a slot <NUM> extends through the sidewall of the first portion 140a in a circumferential direction of the rotatable knob <NUM>. The slot <NUM> receives a pin <NUM> (<FIG>) that protrudes radially inward from an inner surface of the first receiving bore <NUM>. The slot <NUM> and pin <NUM> secure the rotatable knob <NUM> axially relative to the frame <NUM> while allowing rotational movement about the longitudinal axis <NUM> of the frame <NUM> delimited by first and second ends 152a, 152b of the slot <NUM>. In some embodiments or aspects, the rotatable knob <NUM> may be rotatable about the longitudinal axis <NUM> over an angular range between about <NUM>° to about <NUM>°. In some embodiments or aspects, the rotatable knob <NUM> is preferably rotatable about the longitudinal axis <NUM> over an angular range of about <NUM>° from its initial position.

With continued reference to <FIG>, the rotatable knob <NUM> is connected to the outer sleeve <NUM> having a central opening <NUM> into which the rotatable knob <NUM> is inserted. An outer surface of the outer sleeve <NUM> defines a gripping surface that the user may grip to cause the rotatable knob <NUM> to rotate about its longitudinal axis <NUM>. The outer sleeve <NUM> is movable axially relative to the rotatable knob <NUM> between a first position and a second position in a direction of arrow A shown in <FIG>. In the first or default position, the outer sleeve <NUM> is freely rotatable about a longitudinal axis <NUM> of the rotatable knob <NUM> without causing the rotatable knob <NUM> to rotate. The outer sleeve <NUM> is axially movable relative to the rotatable knob <NUM> along the longitudinal axis <NUM> in a direction toward the second portion 140b of the rotatable knob <NUM>. In this second position, the outer sleeve <NUM> and the rotatable knob <NUM> are operatively connected together in a manner such that rotation of the outer sleeve <NUM> about the longitudinal axis <NUM> of the rotatable knob <NUM> also causes a rotation of the rotatable knob <NUM>.

The outer sleeve <NUM> may be biased to the first position by a second biasing member 156b. In some preferred and non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the second biasing member 156b is provided between the rotatable knob <NUM> and the outer sleeve <NUM> to axially bias the outer sleeve <NUM> to the first position. The second biasing member 156b may be a spring. When the outer sleeve <NUM> is moved axially to the second position, the outer sleeve <NUM> may have first splines 143a on its inner surface that connect with the corresponding second splines 143b on an outer surface of the rotatable knob <NUM> such that the rotatable knob <NUM> and the outer sleeve <NUM> are in a splined connection. The spacing between the first splines 143a and the second splines 143b may be equal or unequal. In embodiments or aspects where the spacing between the first splines 143a and the second splines 143b is unequal, the outer sleeve <NUM> may be rotated by a predetermined angular amount before the first splines 143a on the outer sleeve <NUM> engage with the second splines 143b on the rotatable knob <NUM>. In other embodiments or aspects, the rotatable knob <NUM> and the outer sleeve <NUM> may be connected when the outer sleeve <NUM> is in the second position via any other mechanical connection, such as a hex shape, oval shape, or other arrangement that allows rotation of the rotatable knob <NUM> about its longitudinal axis <NUM> with the rotation of the outer sleeve <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG>, the rotatable knob <NUM> and the outer sleeve <NUM> are biased to their initial positions by a biasing mechanism <NUM> having a first biasing member 156a and a second biasing member 156b. The rotatable knob <NUM> may be biased to an initial rotational position by the first biasing member 156a while the outer sleeve <NUM> is biased to its first or initial axial position by the second biasing member 156b. In some embodiments or aspects, the first biasing member 156a may be at least one spring having one end connected to the first end <NUM> of the frame <NUM> and a second end connected to the rotatable knob <NUM>. Rotation of the rotatable knob <NUM> about the longitudinal axis <NUM> away from the initial position increases a restoring force in the first biasing member 156a such that the rotatable knob <NUM> automatically returns to the initial position after an urging force that displaces the rotatable knob <NUM> from the initial position is released.

With reference to <FIG>, the rotatable knob <NUM> has a pin <NUM> protruding radially inward from an inner surface of the central opening <NUM>. The pin <NUM> is configured for interacting with the locking indent <NUM> of the gate <NUM>. In particular, the pin <NUM> is received within the recess <NUM> of the locking indent <NUM> when the gate <NUM> is in the closed position. The pin <NUM> is retained between first and second ends 148a, 148b of the recess <NUM> when the gate <NUM> is in the closed position to prevent movement of the gate <NUM> in a direction along its longitudinal axis <NUM>. Rotation of the rotatable knob <NUM> away from the initial position moves the pin <NUM> circumferentially within the recess <NUM> to align the pin <NUM> with a gap <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) in the recess <NUM> between the second end 144b of the sloped portion <NUM> and the outer surface of body <NUM>. With the pin <NUM> positioned in the gap <NUM>, the gate <NUM> can be withdrawn from the first end <NUM> of the frame <NUM> to open the opening <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, the second portion 100b of the connector <NUM> is shown. As discussed herein, the first portion 100a and the second portion 100b of the connector <NUM> may be detachably connected to one another, such as shown in <FIG>. Similar to the first portion 100a, the second portion 100b of the connector <NUM> may be configured for connecting with the second portion 101b of the fall arrest/prevention energy absorber <NUM>, and a safety line, or a lanyard.

With continued reference to <FIG>, the second portion 100b has a frame <NUM> having a substantially D-shaped form. The frame <NUM> has a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM> spaced apart along a longitudinal axis <NUM> of the frame <NUM> and an opening <NUM> defined between the first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM>. The opening <NUM> is configured for receiving at least a portion of the fall arrest/prevention energy absorber <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). The frame <NUM> may be formed as a single, unitary component. The frame <NUM> may be made from metal, composite, combination of metal and composite, or other heavy duty material capable of withstanding loads that may be imparted on the connector <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG>, the first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM> have a bore <NUM> extending therethrough in a direction along the longitudinal axis <NUM>. The bore <NUM> is configured to receive a fastener <NUM> connecting a lanyard connector <NUM> to the frame <NUM>. The bore <NUM> desirably has an inner diameter that is larger than an outer diameter of the fastener <NUM> such that the fastener <NUM> can be freely inserted into the bore <NUM>. The lanyard connector <NUM> may be movable relative to the frame <NUM>, such as by being rotatable about the longitudinal axis <NUM> of the frame <NUM>. The lanyard connector <NUM> may be arcuately shaped and provide a connecting point for additional fall arrest/prevention components. Similar to the frame <NUM>, the lanyard connector <NUM> may have a bore <NUM> for receiving the fastener <NUM>. At least one end of the bore <NUM> may have a threaded portion <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) for threadably connecting with the lanyard connector <NUM>. The frame <NUM>, fastener <NUM>, and lanyard connector <NUM> may be formed as a single unitary component.

With continued reference to <FIG>, the frame <NUM> may have one or more holes <NUM> extending therethrough, with each hole <NUM> configured for removably receiving the fastener <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) that connects the first portion 100a of the connector <NUM> with the second portion 100b. The frame <NUM> further may have one or more recesses <NUM> that are configured for receiving the corresponding one or more protrusions <NUM> on the first portion 100a of the connector <NUM> to prevent rotation of the first portion 100a relative to the second portion 100b when the two portions are connected together with the fastener <NUM>. In some embodiments or aspects, the one or more protrusions <NUM> may be provided on the second portion 100b while the one or more recesses <NUM> may be provided on the first portion 100a.

Having described the structure of the connector <NUM>, the method of operation of the connector <NUM> from a first position permitting longitudinal movement of the gate <NUM> between the first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM> of the frame <NUM> and a second position preventing longitudinal movement of the gate <NUM> will now be described with reference to <FIG>. While <FIG> show the connector <NUM> having the gate <NUM> shown in <FIG>, it is to be understood that the gate <NUM> shown in <FIG> can be substituted for the gate <NUM> of <FIG> without departing from the intended method of operation of the connector <NUM>. When the rotatable knob <NUM> is in its initial position and when the gate <NUM> is in the closed position (<FIG>), the pin <NUM> on the rotatable knob <NUM> is retained between first and second ends 148a, 148b of the recess <NUM> on the gate <NUM>. In this manner, axial movement of the gate <NUM> along the longitudinal axis <NUM> is prevented and the opening <NUM> on the frame <NUM> remains closed. To release the gate <NUM> from the closed position (<FIG>), the outer sleeve <NUM> is moved axially from the first position (<FIG>) to the second position (<FIG>) by pulling the outer sleeve <NUM> in the direction of arrow B shown in <FIG>. Once the outer sleeve <NUM> is operatively engaged with the rotatable knob <NUM>, such as due to interaction between the first splines 143a on the outer sleeve <NUM> and the second splines 143b on the rotatable knob <NUM> described herein with reference to <FIG>, the outer sleeve <NUM>, along with the rotatable knob <NUM>, is rotated relative to the frame <NUM> about the longitudinal axis <NUM> of the frame <NUM> in an opening direction, such as by rotating the outer sleeve <NUM> and the rotatable knob <NUM> clockwise or counterclockwise in a direction of arrow C in <FIG> (only clockwise direction is shown in <FIG>). In this manner, two discrete actions are required to unlock the pin <NUM> on the rotatable knob <NUM> from the recess <NUM> on the gate <NUM>. The two discrete actions can be completed using one hand, thereby freeing the other hand to pull the gate <NUM>.

As discussed herein, the rotatable knob <NUM> may be rotatable in one direction only (the opening direction) from its initial position toward a first position. Such rotation of the rotatable knob <NUM> generates a restoring force in the first biasing member 156a. Rotation of the rotatable knob <NUM> in a direction opposite to the opening direction may be prevented due to interaction between the rotatable knob <NUM> and the first end <NUM> of the frame <NUM>, such as due to the positioning on the pin <NUM> that protrudes from the inner surface of the first receiving bore <NUM> into the slot <NUM> on the rotatable knob <NUM> when the rotatable knob <NUM> is in its initial position.

With rotation of the rotatable knob <NUM> in the opening direction toward the first position (<FIG>), the pin <NUM> on the rotatable knob <NUM> is moved circumferentially within the recess <NUM> on the gate <NUM>. Once the pin <NUM> is aligned with the gap <NUM> (shown in <FIG> and <FIG>) in the recess <NUM> between the first end 148a of the recess <NUM> and the second end 144b of the sloped portion <NUM> (shown in <FIG> and <FIG>) of the locking indent <NUM> on the gate <NUM>, the gate <NUM> can be withdrawn from the first end <NUM> of the frame <NUM> by moving the gate <NUM> axially out of the first receiving bore <NUM> (<FIG>). In this manner, a third operation is necessary to unlock and open the gate <NUM> from the frame <NUM> - one axial movement of the outer sleeve <NUM> relative to the rotatable knob <NUM>, one rotational movement of the outer sleeve <NUM> and the rotatable knob <NUM>, and one axial movement of the gate <NUM> following the rotation of the outer sleeve <NUM> and the rotatable knob <NUM>.

By moving the gate <NUM> out of the first end <NUM> of the frame <NUM>, the opening <NUM> is opened to allow insertion of an element of a fall arrest/prevention system, such as one or more straps of a fall protection harness. As the gate <NUM> is moved out of the first receiving bore <NUM>, the rotatable knob <NUM> can be released from the first position to be restored to a second position (initial position) due to the restoring force of the biasing mechanism <NUM>. After unlocking the gate <NUM> from the first end <NUM> of the frame <NUM>, the gate <NUM> can be freely moved in an axial direction along its longitudinal axis <NUM>. As discussed herein, axial movement of the gate <NUM> away from the second end <NUM> is delimited by the interaction between the detent <NUM> within the second receiving bore <NUM> and the track <NUM> on the body <NUM> of the gate <NUM>.

To close the gate <NUM>, the gate <NUM> is moved axially along its longitudinal axis <NUM> toward the first end <NUM> of the frame <NUM>. The rotatable knob <NUM> is positioned in the second (initial) position, where the pin <NUM> of the rotatable knob <NUM> is positioned in the path of travel of the gate <NUM>. Specifically, the position of the pin <NUM> within the first receiving bore <NUM> prevents further axial movement of the gate <NUM> due to interference between the pin <NUM> and the sloped portion <NUM> of the gate <NUM>. The rotatable knob <NUM> may be rotated manually, such as by physically rotating the outer sleeve <NUM> and the rotatable knob <NUM> toward the first position, or automatically, such as due to contact between the sloped portion <NUM> of the locking indent <NUM> on the gate <NUM> with the pin <NUM> on the rotatable knob <NUM>. With manual rotation of the outer sleeve <NUM> and the rotatable knob <NUM>, the rotatable knob <NUM> is rotated about the longitudinal axis <NUM> to circumferentially align the pin <NUM> with the gap <NUM> (shown in shown in <FIG> and <FIG>) on the locking indent <NUM> and allow further axial movement of the gate <NUM> into the gap <NUM> until the pin <NUM> contacts the second end 148b of the recess <NUM>. With automatic rotation of the rotatable knob <NUM>, the user pushes on the second end <NUM> of the gate <NUM> to move the sloped portion <NUM> of the locking indent <NUM> into contact with the pin <NUM>. The axially-directed force on the second end <NUM> of the gate <NUM> applies a force to pin <NUM>, and thereby the rotatable knob <NUM>, causing rotatable knob <NUM> to rotate such that the gate <NUM> can slide along the pin <NUM> on the sloped portion <NUM> until the pin <NUM> enters the gap <NUM> on the locking indent <NUM> and contacts the second end 148b of the recess <NUM>. Once the pin <NUM> engages the second end 148b of the recess <NUM>, the position of the rotatable knob <NUM> is restored to its original state due to the restoring force of the biasing mechanism <NUM>. With the rotatable knob <NUM> in its initial position, the gate <NUM> is locked in the closed position, thereby preventing access in and out of the opening <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A harness connector (<NUM>) comprising:
a frame (<NUM>) having a first end (<NUM>), a second end (<NUM>), and a pass-through opening (<NUM>) extending between the first end (<NUM>) and the second end (<NUM>) along a longitudinal axis (<NUM>) of the frame,
a gate (<NUM>) positioned within the pass-through opening (<NUM>) between the first end and the second end (<NUM>, <NUM>) of the frame and movable relative to the frame (<NUM>) between a closed position to close the pass-through opening (<NUM>) and an open position to open the pass-through opening (<NUM>); and
a locking mechanism (<NUM>) for selectively locking the gate (<NUM>) in the closed position, the locking mechanism comprising:
a rotatable knob (<NUM>) connected to at least one of the first end and the second end (<NUM>, <NUM>) of the frame and rotatable relative to the frame in a direction about the longitudinal axis;
an outer sleeve (<NUM>) surrounding at least a portion of the rotatable knob (<NUM>), the outer sleeve (<NUM>) axially movable relative to the rotatable knob (<NUM>) between a first position and a second position, wherein, in the first position of the outer sleeve (<NUM>), rotational movement of the rotatable knob (<NUM>) is prevented, and wherein, in the second position of the outer sleeve (<NUM>), rotational movement of the rotatable knob (<NUM>) is permitted; and
a locking indent (<NUM>) on the gate (<NUM>) configured for receiving at least a portion of the rotatable knob (<NUM>) when the gate (<NUM>) is in the closed position, the locking indent (<NUM>) comprising a curved sloped portion (<NUM>) arranged at an angle relative to a longitudinal axis (<NUM>) of the gate and a recess (<NUM>) arranged substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the gate,
wherein the rotatable knob (<NUM>) is rotatable between a first position permitting longitudinal movement of the gate (<NUM>) between the first end (<NUM>) and the second end (<NUM>) of the frame and a second position preventing longitudinal movement of the gate (<NUM>) when the gate is in the closed position.