WO2019175542A1

WO2019175542A1 - Coiled energy absorber device

Info

Publication number: WO2019175542A1
Application number: PCT/GB2019/050621
Authority: WO
Inventors: Karl Jones; Owain Jones; Jacob Thackeray SQUIRE
Original assignee: Latchways PLC
Current assignee: Latchways PLC
Priority date: 2018-03-13
Filing date: 2019-03-06
Publication date: 2019-09-19
Anticipated expiration: 2020-09-13
Also published as: WO2019175543A1; GB201803992D0; GB201807044D0; GB2572019A; GB2571948B; GB2572019B; GB2571948A

Abstract

An energy absorber device for use in a fall arrest system has an energy absorber arrangement including an elongate flexible element and a housing. The housing is configured to be adjustable between a closed condition, in which the housing encloses the energy absorber arrangement, and an open condition, in which the housing is configured to open or separate. Prior to deployment, the energy absorber arrangement has an elongate flexible element wrapped around a loop in a coiled formation. The elongate flexible element has one or more tearable seams. In response to application of a predetermined loading force, the housing is configured to move to the open condition and the elongate flexible element is deployed. During deployment, the elongate flexible element uncoils and the one or more tearable seams tear, thereby absorbing the energy of a user's fall. The housing is separable without resulting in deployment of the elongate flexible element.

Description

COILED ENERGY ABSORBER DEVICE

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to United Kingdom Patent Application Serial No. 1803992.5, filed March 13, 2018, and United Kingdom Patent Application Serial No. 1807044.1, filed on April 30, 2018, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

[0002] The present application relates to safety devices for use in a fall arrest system and in particular to energy absorber devices comprising elongate flexible elements, which are coiled within a housing and then deployed to absorb the energy of a fall arrest event.

Description of the Related Art

[0003] Fall arrest systems are used to prevent personnel working at height from suffering injury as a result of falling. Fall arrest systems are often referred to as height safety systems or fall prevention systems or apparatus. Frequently, such systems include a so-called safety block arranged to be suspended overhead from an anchor structure. Such arrangements typically include a drum upon which a safety line is wound and a speed responsive mechanism arranged to inhibit the drum rotation above a predetermined rotational speed.

[0004] It is known to provide an energy absorber device within the safety block which is arranged to be activated if a load above a predetermined threshold is applied to the safety line when the speed responsive mechanism is deployed. These internal energy absorber devices are typically either friction brake devices or plastically deformable metallic strip arrangements that are plastically deformed during deployment in order to absorb energy.

[0005] It is also known to provide an external energy absorber device, separate to the safety block, which is usually connected between the safety line and the user. For example, the energy absorber device may be connected to a harness worn by a user.

[0006] The energy absorber device absorbs the energy, or shock of a fall arrest event. If an energy absorber device is not used as part of a fall arrest system, a user can continue to descend even after engagement of other safety arrangements, such as a speed responsive brake, due to the loading force of the user's weight acting on the safety line. This continued decent is prevented or limited by an energy absorber device.

[0007] An energy absorber device comprising an elongate flexible element, sometimes referred to as a textile energy absorber device, is a type of external energy absorber device. Typically, the elongate flexible element comprises one or more tearable seams. In response to a fall arrest event, the elongate flexible or textile element is unfurled or deployed and the force of the user causes the tearable seams to rip apart, which at least partially absorbs the energy of the user’s fall. Examples of such a textile energy absorber device are described in WO 2017/078669 and US 5174410.

SUMMARY

[0008] Generally, provided is an improved energy absorber device for use in a fall arrest system.

[0009] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, provided is an energy absorber device for use in a fall arrest system. The energy absorber device may have an energy absorber arrangement with a loop, a first elongate flexible element connected to a first side of the loop and a second elongate flexible element connected to a second side of the loop. The energy absorber device may further have a housing having a first body portion and a second body portion defining an internal cavity therebetween for receiving at least a portion of the energy absorber arrangement. Prior to deployment of the energy absorber arrangement, the first and second elongate flexible elements may be wrapped around the loop to form a coil, such that the loop extends through a center of the coil along a coil axis.

[0010] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the loop may extend in a first direction and the first and second elongate flexible elements may be wrapped around the loop in a second direction transverse to the first direction. The loop may have a first end and a second end, the first and second ends projecting from the center of the coil.

[0011] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the loop may have two opposing side portions which are substantially parallel. The opposing side portions of the loop may extend in a first direction and the first and second elongate flexible elements may project from each of the side portions in a second direction transverse to the first direction. The first elongate element may be wrapped around the loop to form a first coil and the second elongate flexible element may be wrapped around the loop to form a second coil. The loop may extend through a center of both the first and second coils, and the first coil may be disposed adjacent to the second coil.

[0012] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the first coil may be spaced from the second coil along a major longitudinal length of the loop. The loop may have a first end portion which projects from the center of the first coil, and a second end portion which projects from the center of the second coil. The first and second coils may be retained around the loop by a securing member. The securing member may be an adhesive strip.

[0013] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, each of the first and second elongate flexible elements may have two strips of material which are overlaid and connected at ends of the strips furthest from the loop. The connected ends of the overlaid strips of material may be reinforced to prevent separation during deployment of the energy absorber arrangement. The overlaid strips of material may be at least partially secured together along their length by one or more tearable seams. The seams may be configured to tear when a predetermined force stretches the loop. The tearable seams may be formed by one or more of adhesive, stitching, mechanical fasteners, or interlocking connectors.

[0014] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a loading element may be inserted into the loop. The loading element may have an attachment portion for mounting the energy absorber arrangement to a connector. The loading element may have a spine portion which extends substantially parallel to the loop. At least one of the first and second elongate flexible elements may be wrapped around the spine portion. A first loading element may be inserted into a first end of the loop and a second loading element may be inserted into a second end of the loop. The housing may be movable between a closed condition in which the first body portion and the second body portion enclose the internal cavity and an open condition in which the first body portion and the second body portion are configured to open or separate. The elongate flexible elements may be configured to deploy in a first direction and the housing may be configured to open or separate in a second direction substantially transverse to the first direction.

[0015] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, provided is an energy absorber device for use in a fall arrest system. The device may have: a) an energy absorber arrangement having an elongate flexible element; and b) a housing, wherein the housing may be configured to be adjustable between a closed condition in which the housing encloses the energy absorber arrangement and an open condition in which the housing is configured to open or separate. In response to application of a predetermined loading force, the housing may be configured to move to the open condition and the elongate flexible element may be deployed. The housing may open or separate without resulting in deployment of the elongate flexible element.

[0016] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the housing may be configured such that the predetermined loading force at which the housing is reconfigured to the open condition is indicative of a fall arrest event. For example, the housing may be configured to move to the open condition and deploy the elongate flexible element when a loading force similar to the typical force generated by a falling user is applied to the housing.

[0017] Known energy absorber devices have a frangible or tearable housing configured to break or tear in order to deploy an elongate flexible element. An advantage of the present disclosure is that it may be reconfigurable between the open condition and the closed condition, such that the housing can be re-used.

[0018] In many known devices the act of opening or separating the housing automatically results in deployment of the elongate flexible element. The deployment of the elongate flexible element can be irreversible, for example the housing may fracture. In other examples, it is time consuming and inconvenient to return the elongate flexible element to its pre-deployed state within the housing. Thus, an advantage of the present disclosure is that the housing can be opened by a user without resulting in deployment of the elongate flexible element stored therein. This also allows the housing to be opened for inspection, to check that the condition of the energy absorber arrangement complies with safety regulations, without the disadvantages referred to above.

[0019] The person skilled in the art will appreciate that there are many ways in which the housing could be constructed to achieve this function.

[0020] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the elongate flexible element may be deployed in a first direction and the housing may be configured to open or separate in a second direction substantially transverse to the first direction.

[0021] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the housing may have a first body portion and a second body portion. A joint may be provided along which the first body portion is configured to at least partially open or separate from the second body portion.

[0022] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the joint may extend in a direction substantially parallel to the direction in which the elongate flexible element is deployed.

[0023] In some embodiments, the joint extends substantially along a length of the housing. For example, the joint may extend from one end of the housing to the other end. Additionally or alternatively, the joint may extend around the entire circumference of the housing.

[0024] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the first body portion may be configured completely separate from the second body portion. In other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, in the open condition the first body portion may remain attached to the second body portion. [0025] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the energy absorber device may have a bore or channel disposed at each end of the housing, wherein each bore or channel may be for receiving a connector therein.

[0026] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the joint between the first body portion and the second body portion may extend between the bores or channels in the housing.

[0027] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the housing may have a first body portion and a second body portion and a hinge connecting the first body portion to the second body portion.

[0028] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a fastener arrangement may be provided which may be reconfigurable between: i) a locked position in which the first and second body portions are secured together; and ii) an open position in which the first and second body portions pivot about the hinge, such that the housing is in the closed condition when the fastener arrangement is in the locked position.

[0029] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the elongate flexible element may have a length of textile, and/or a length of fabric, and/or a length of webbing.

[0030] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, there is provided an energy absorber device for use in a fall arrest system. The device may a housing having a first body portion and a second body portion, a hinge connecting the first body portion to the second body portion, and a fastener arrangement. The fastener arrangement may be reconfigurable between a locked position in which the first and second body portions are secured together, and an open position in which the first and second body portions pivot about the hinge. The device may further have an energy absorber arrangement comprising an elongate flexible element received within the housing. In response to application of a predetermined loading force on the housing, the fastener may move to the open position and the elongate flexible element may be deployed.

[0031] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the hinged body portions and the fastener arrangement may allow the housing to be quickly and conveniently reconfigured between the locked and open positions. This also may ensure smooth and reliable deployment of the elongate flexible element.

[0032] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the hinge may be disposed at one end of the first and second body portions, and the fastener arrangement may be disposed at the opposing end of the first and/or second body portions.

[0033] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, when the fastener arrangement is in the locked position, the housing may have a first bore or channel disposed adjacent to the hinge and a second bore or channel disposed adjacent to the fastener arrangement. Each bore or channel may be for receiving a connector therein.

[0034] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the fastener arrangement may have a clip, or other type of snap-fit fastener.

[0035] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the first and second body portions may be rigid. For example, they may be made of a rigid plastic material.

[0036] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, there is provided an energy absorber device for use in a fall arrest system. The device may have an energy absorber arrangement comprising an elongate flexible element, a housing having a closed condition in which it encloses the energy absorber arrangement, and a loading element arranged to engage the housing. The loading element may have an attachment portion for mounting to a connector, such that the loading element is configured to transmit a loading force from the connector to the housing. In response to application of a predetermined loading force, the housing may be configured to open or separate and the elongate flexible element is deployed.

[0037] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, if a loading force below the predetermined threshold for deployment is applied to the elongate flexible element, this may cause the element to stretch or deform. This can reduce effectiveness (or the energy absorbing capacity) of the elongate flexible element upon deployment, for example it can reduce the maximum load that can be safely absorbed on deployment. In addition, stretching or deforming the elongate flexible element inside the housing can result in premature deployment of the energy absorber arrangement, as the stretching of the elongate flexible element causes the housing to open or separate. Premature deployment is defined as deployment occurring in response to a loading force less than the predetermined loading force.

[0038] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, these problems may be negated by the loading element of the present disclosure. The loading element may transmit force from a connector, which may be attached to a user or to a safety line, to the housing of the energy absorber device rather than to the elongate flexible element. This may prevent the elongate flexible element from being stretched or deformed prior to deployment.

[0039] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the attachment portion of the loading element may have an aperture configured to receive a connector therethrough.

[0040] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the housing may have a first body portion and a second body portion and a hinge connecting the first body portion to the second body portion. [0041] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a fastener arrangement may be provided which is reconfigurable between a locked position in which the first and second body portions are secured together, and an open position in which the first and second body portions pivot about the hinge, such that the housing is in the closed condition when the fastener arrangement is in the locked position.

[0042] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, in response to application of the predetermined loading force on the housing, the fastener arrangement may be configured to move to the open position.

[0043] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the fastener arrangement may be disposed proximate the attachment portion of the loading element when the fastener arrangement is in the locked position.

[0044] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, when the loading force applied to the loading element is below a given threshold, the fastener arrangement can be moved to the open position and the housing can be opened or separated without resulting in deployment of the elongate flexible element. The threshold may be lower than the predetermined loading force at which the elongate flexible element is deployed.

[0045] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the loading element may be at least partially enclosed within the housing when the housing is in the closed condition.

[0046] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the loading element may have at least one shoulder portion configured to engage a slot or recess provided in the housing. The shoulder portion may project outwards from the loading element.

[0047] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the elongate flexible element may be connected to a loop which is secured around the loading element. Optionally, the attachment portion of the loading element may be inserted into the loop.

[0048] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the loop may be integral to the elongate flexible element.

[0049] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the at least one shoulder portion of the loading element may project outside of the loop connected to the elongate flexible element.

[0050] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the loading element may have a spine portion and the elongate flexible element is at least partially wrapped around the spine portion in a coiled formation prior to deployment. The spine portion may extend into the cavity formed by the housing. [0051] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the at least one shoulder portion may extend in a direction transverse to the spine portion. For example, the spine portion may extend in a substantially vertical direction and the at least one shoulder portion may extend in a substantially horizontal direction.

[0052] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a plurality of loading elements may be provided.

[0053] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, two device may have two loading elements. The loading elements may be disposed at opposing ends of the housing.

[0054] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the device may further have the connector(s) configured to be mounted to the loading element(s), wherein each connector may allow the device to be secured to a safety line or to a user.

[0055] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the connectors may have shackles, having shackle pins arranged to be inserted through the apertures in the loading elements.

[0056] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the elongate flexible element may be stored within the housing in a coiled formation prior to deployment.

[0057] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the device may have adhesive, or an adhesive strip, arranged to retain the elongate flexible element in the coiled formation prior to deployment. This may be advantageous as the elongate flexible element does not unravel if the housing is opened prior to deployment, for example to inspect the device’s condition.

[0058] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the elongate flexible element may have at least one folded portion, wherein each folded portion may be formed by a seam configured to tear upon application of the predetermined loading force. This may improve the energy absorbing properties of the elongate flexible element.

[0059] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, an energy absorber device may have an energy absorber arrangement having an elongate flexible element, and a housing, wherein the housing may be configured to be adjustable between a closed condition in which the housing encloses the energy absorber arrangement and an open condition in which the housing is configured to open or separate. The device may further have at least two spine portions disposed within the housing, wherein the spine portions may be spaced apart and the elongate flexible element is wrapped around the spine portions prior to deployment. In response to application of a predetermined loading force, the housing may be configured to move to the open condition and the elongate flexible element is deployed. [0060] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the spine portions may advantageously provide a structure around which the elongate flexible element can be wrapped. This makes it easier to safely position the elongate flexible element within the housing to ensure a smooth deployment process. The spine portions can also help to retain the elongate flexible element within the housing if the housing is opened prior to deployment.

[0061] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the elongate flexible element may be wrapped around the spine portions in a coiled formation prior to deployment.

[0062] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the spine portions may extend in the same direction within the housing. Additionally or alternatively, the spine portions may be aligned in the same plane.

[0063] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, each spine portion may have a proximal end and a distal end. The distal ends of the spine portions may be adjacent and spaced apart.

[0064] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, each of the proximal ends of the spine portions may be mounted to the housing and/or configured to be mounted to a connector.

[0065] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the elongate flexible element may have a length of textile and/or a length of webbing.

[0066] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, there is provided a fall arrest system or a fall arrest arrangement having an energy absorber device according to any preceding embodiment or aspect of the disclosure.

[0067] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, there is provided a housing for an energy absorber device as defined in any preceding embodiment or aspect of the disclosure.

[0068] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a flexible energy absorber arrangement may have a loop, and an elongate flexible element connected to the loop. Prior to deployment, the elongate flexible element may be wrapped around the loop to form a coil, such that the loop extends through the center of the coil along the coil axis.

[0069] In the prior art, the elongate flexible element of a textile energy absorber arrangement is typically folded back on itself to form a concertinaed arrangement which is inserted into a housing. This is depicted in FIG. 10 of the drawings. As shown in FIG. 10, the elongate flexible element 101 is concertinaed and secured with adhesive tape 102 or other securing means. It is difficult to accurately fold the elongate flexible element such that the end portions 103 are aligned. In addition, the folded end portions 103 contain air pockets or gaps. If the end portions 103 are compressed to attempt to reduce these air pockets this can potentially damage the elongate flexible element, and increases production time. [0070] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the coiled formation of the elongate flexible element in the present disclosure may be therefore advantageous as it is quicker and less laborious to wrap the elongate flexible element around the loop, as opposed to the concertinaed folding in FIG. 10. Moreover, the coiled formation may eliminates the air gaps and results in a tighter, less bulky arrangement for insertion into a housing.

[0071] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the elongate flexible element may be integral to the loop.

[0072] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the loop may extend in a first direction and the elongate flexible element may be wrapped around the loop in a second direction transverse to the first direction.

[0073] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the loop may have a first end and a second end and the first and second ends of the loop may project from the center of the coil.

[0074] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the loop may have two opposing side portions which are substantially parallel. The loop may therefore be a substantially narrow, elongate or squashed shape.

[0075] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the opposing side portions of the loop may extend in a first direction and the elongate flexible element projects from one of the side portions in a second direction transverse to the first direction.

[0076] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the energy absorber arrangement may have a first elongate flexible element and a second elongate flexible element connected to the loop.

[0077] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the first and second elongate flexible elements may project from opposing sides of the loop. The first and second elongate flexible elements may be integral to the loop.

[0078] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the first elongate element may be wrapped around the loop to form a first coil and the second elongate flexible element may be wrapped around the loop to form a second coil. The loop may extend through the center of both the first and second coils and the first coil may be disposed adjacent to the second coil.

[0079] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the use of two adjacent coils may be particularly advantageous as this reduces the width or thickness of the arrangement when in the coiled configuration, whilst still maintaining the same length of the elongate flexible element. Thus, the energy absorber arrangement may fit into a smaller, lighter housing, which is desirable. [0080] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the first coil is spaced from the second coil along the length of the loop.

[0081] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the loop may have a first end which projects from the center of the first coil, and a second end which projects from the center of the second coil.

[0082] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, each coil may be retained around the loop by a securing member.

[0083] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the securing member may be an adhesive strip, such as adhesive tape.

[0084] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the securing member may be configured to fail when a predetermined force stretches the loop. The predetermined force may be indicative of a fall arrest event.

[0085] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, each elongate flexible element may have two strips of material, or layers of material, which may be overlaid and connected at the ends of the strips furthest from the loop. The two strips of material may be integral or integrally attached at one end. For example, a single length of material may be folded in half to form the two strips.

[0086] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the connected ends of the overlaid strips of material may be reinforced to prevent separation during deployment of the energy absorber arrangement.

[0087] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the overlaid strips of material may be at least partially secured together along their length by one or more tearable seams. The seams may be configured to tear or fail when a predetermined force stretches the loop. The predetermined force may be indicative of a fall arrest event.

[0088] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the tearable seams may be formed by one or more of adhesive, stitching, mechanical fasteners, or interlocking connectors (such as hook and look fasteners).

[0089] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the loop may have an elongate or narrow shape when in use.

[0090] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the arrangement further may include a loading element inserted into the loop. The loading element may have an attachment portion for mounting the energy absorber arrangement to a connector. [0091] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the attachment portion may have an eyelet or other element with an aperture therethrough. The loading element may prevent premature deployment of the elongate flexible element, as discussed above.

[0092] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the loading element may be inserted into the loop before the elongate element(s) is/are coiled.

[0093] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the loading element may have a spine portion which extends substantially parallel to the side portions of the loop. At least one of the elongate flexible elements may be wrapped around the spine portion. This may provide additional support for the loop which may make it easier and quicker to wrap the elongate flexible element(s) into the coiled formation.

[0094] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, two loading elements may be provided. A first loading element may be inserted into the first end of the loop and a second loading element may be inserted into a second end of the loop.

[0095] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the loop and the elongate element(s) may be formed from a single piece of material.

[0096] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the energy absorber arrangement may be formed of two separate lengths of material which may be overlaid and connected at their ends and along the tearable seams to form the elongate flexible elements and the loop disposed between the tearable seams.

[0097] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the material may be webbing.

[0098] It will be appreciated that the energy absorber device may comprise any feature or embodiment of the other aspects of the disclosure described above.

[0099] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure, an energy absorber device may be characterized by one or more for the following numbered clauses:

[0100] Clause 1. An energy absorber device for use in a fall arrest system, the energy absorber device comprising an energy absorber arrangement comprising a loop, a first elongate flexible element connected to a first side of the loop and a second elongate flexible element connected to a second side of the loop; and a housing having a first body portion and a second body portion defining an internal cavity therebetween for receiving at least a portion of the energy absorber arrangement, wherein, prior to deployment of the energy absorber arrangement, the first and second elongate flexible elements are wrapped around the loop to form a coil, such that the loop extends through a center of the coil along a coil axis. [0101] Clause 2. The energy absorber device according to clause 1, wherein the loop extends in a first direction and the first and second elongate flexible elements are wrapped around the loop in a second direction transverse to the first direction.

[0102] Clause 3. The energy absorber device according to clause 1 or 2, wherein the loop comprises a first end and a second end, the first and second ends projecting from the center of the coil.

[0103] Clause 4. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 1-3, wherein the loop comprises two opposing side portions which are substantially parallel.

[0104] Clause 5. The energy absorber device according to clause 4, wherein the opposing side portions of the loop extend in a first direction and the first and second elongate flexible elements project from each of the side portions in a second direction transverse to the first direction.

[0105] Clause 6. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 1-5, wherein the first elongate element is wrapped around the loop to form a first coil and the second elongate flexible element is wrapped around the loop to form a second coil, wherein the loop extends through a center of both the first and second coils, and wherein the first coil is disposed adjacent to the second coil.

[0106] Clause 7. The energy absorber device according to clause 6, wherein the first coil is spaced from the second coil along a major longitudinal length of the loop.

[0107] Clause 8. The energy absorber device according to clause 6 or 7, wherein the loop comprises a first end portion which projects from the center of the first coil, and a second end portion which projects from the center of the second coil.

[0108] Clause 9. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 6-8, wherein the first and second coils are retained around the loop by a securing member.

[0109] Clause 10. The energy absorber device according to clause 9, wherein the securing member is an adhesive strip.

[0110] Clause 11. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 1-10, wherein each of the first and second elongate flexible elements comprises two strips of material which are overlaid and connected at ends of the strips furthest from the loop.

[0111] Clause 12. The energy absorber device according to clause 11, wherein the connected ends of the overlaid strips of material are reinforced to prevent separation during deployment of the energy absorber arrangement. [0112] Clause 13. The energy absorber device according to clause 11 or 12, wherein the overlaid strips of material are at least partially secured together along their length by one or more tearable seams, wherein the seams are configured to tear when a predetermined force stretches the loop.

[0113] Clause 14. The energy absorber device according to clause 13, wherein the tearable seams are formed by one or more of adhesive, stitching, mechanical fasteners, or interlocking connectors.

[0114] Clause 15. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 1-14, further comprising a loading element inserted into the loop, wherein the loading element comprises an attachment portion for mounting the energy absorber arrangement to a connector.

[0115] Clause 16. The energy absorber device according to clause 15, wherein the loading element comprises a spine portion which extends substantially parallel to the loop.

[0116] Clause 17. The energy absorber device according to clause 16, wherein at least one of the first and second elongate flexible elements is wrapped around the spine portion.

[0117] Clause 18. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 1-17, wherein a first loading element is inserted into a first end of the loop and a second loading element is inserted into a second end of the loop.

[0118] Clause 19. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 1-18, wherein the housing is movable between a closed condition in which the first body portion and the second body portion enclose the internal cavity and an open condition in which the first body portion and the second body portion are configured to open or separate.

[0119] Clause 20. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 1-19, wherein the first and second elongate flexible elements are configured to deploy in a first direction and wherein the housing is configured to open or separate in a second direction substantially transverse to the first direction.

[0120] Clause 21. An energy absorber device for use in a fall arrest system, the energy absorber device comprising an energy absorber arrangement comprising a loop, a first elongate flexible element connected to a first side of the loop and a second elongate flexible element connected to a second side of the loop; and a housing having a first body portion and a second body portion defining an internal cavity therebetween for receiving at least a portion of the energy absorber arrangement, wherein, prior to deployment of the energy absorber arrangement, the first and second elongate flexible elements are wrapped around the loop to form a coil, such that the loop extends through a center of the coil along a coil axis. [0121] Clause 22. The energy absorber device according to clause 21, wherein the loop extends in a first direction and the first and second elongate flexible elements are wrapped around the loop in a second direction transverse to the first direction.

[0122] Clause 23. The energy absorber device according to clause 21 or 22, wherein the loop comprises a first end and a second end, the first and second ends projecting from the center of the coil.

[0123] Clause 24. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 21-23, wherein the loop comprises two opposing side portions which are substantially parallel.

[0124] Clause 25. The energy absorber device according to any of clause 21-24, wherein the opposing side portions of the loop extend in a first direction and the first and second elongate flexible elements project from each of the side portions in a second direction transverse to the first direction.

[0125] Clause 26. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 21-25, wherein the first elongate element is wrapped around the loop to form a first coil and the second elongate flexible element is wrapped around the loop to form a second coil, wherein the loop extends through a center of both the first and second coils, and wherein the first coil is disposed adjacent to the second coil.

[0126] Clause 27. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 21-26, wherein the first coil is spaced from the second coil along a major longitudinal length of the loop.

[0127] Clause 28. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 21-27, wherein the loop comprises a first end portion which projects from the center of the first coil, and a second end portion which projects from the center of the second coil.

[0128] Clause 29. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 21-28, wherein the first and second coils are retained around the loop by a securing member.

[0129] Clause 30. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 21-29, wherein the securing member is an adhesive strip.

[0130] Clause 31. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 21-30, wherein each of the first and second elongate flexible elements comprises two strips of material which are overlaid and connected at ends of the strips furthest from the loop.

[0131] Clause 32. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 21-31, wherein the connected ends of the overlaid strips of material are reinforced to prevent separation during deployment of the energy absorber arrangement. [0132] Clause 33. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 21-32, wherein the overlaid strips of material are at least partially secured together along their length by one or more tearable seams, wherein the seams are configured to tear when a predetermined force stretches the loop.

[0133] Clause 34. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 21-33, wherein the tearable seams are formed by one or more of adhesive, stitching, mechanical fasteners, or interlocking connectors.

[0134] Clause 35. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 21-34, further comprising a loading element inserted into the loop, wherein the loading element comprises an attachment portion for mounting the energy absorber arrangement to a connector.

[0135] Clause 36. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 21-35, wherein the loading element comprises a spine portion which extends substantially parallel to the loop.

[0136] Clause 37. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 21-36, wherein at least one of the first and second elongate flexible elements is wrapped around the spine portion.

[0137] Clause 38. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 21-37, wherein a first loading element is inserted into a first end of the loop and a second loading element is inserted into a second end of the loop.

[0138] Clause 39. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 21-38, wherein the housing is movable between a closed condition in which the first body portion and the second body portion enclose the internal cavity and an open condition in which the first body portion and the second body portion are configured to open or separate.

[0139] Clause 40. The energy absorber device according to any of clauses 21-39, wherein the first and second elongate flexible elements are configured to deploy in a first direction and wherein the housing is configured to open or separate in a second direction substantially transverse to the first direction.

[0140] Clause 41. A flexible energy absorber arrangement, comprising: a loop; and an elongate flexible element connected to the loop, wherein, prior to deployment, the elongate flexible element is wrapped around the loop to form a coil, such that the loop extends through the center of the coil along the coil axis.

[0141] Clause 42. The energy absorber arrangement according to clause 41, wherein the loop extends in a first direction and the elongate flexible element is wrapped around the loop in a second direction transverse to the first direction. [0142] Clause 43. The energy absorber arrangement according to clause 41 or clause 42, wherein the loop comprises a first end and a second end and the first and second ends of the loop project from the center of the coil.

[0143] Clause 44. The energy absorber arrangement according to any preceding clause, wherein the loop comprises two opposing side portions which are substantially parallel.

[0144] Clause 45. The energy absorber arrangement according to clause 44, wherein the opposing side portions of the loop extend in a first direction and the elongate flexible element projects from one of the side portions in a second direction transverse to the first direction.

[0145] Clause 46. The energy absorber arrangement according to any preceding clause, comprising a first elongate flexible element and a second elongate flexible element connected to the loop.

[0146] Clause 47. The energy absorber arrangement according to clause 46 as it depends on clause 44 or clause 45, wherein the first and second elongate flexible elements project from opposing sides of the loop.

[0147] Clause 48. The energy absorber arrangement according to any preceding clause, wherein the first elongate element is wrapped around the loop to form a first coil and the second elongate flexible element is wrapped around the loop to form a second coil, wherein the loop extends through the center of both the first and second coils and the first coil is disposed adjacent to the second coil.

[0148] Clause 49. The energy absorber arrangement according to clause 48, wherein the first coil is spaced from the second coil along the length of the loop.

[0149] Clause 50. The energy absorber arrangement according to clause 48 or clause 49, wherein the loop comprises a first end which projects from the center of the first coil, and a second end which projects from the center of the second coil.

[0150] Clause 51. The energy absorber arrangement according to any preceding clause, wherein each coil is retained around the loop by a securing member.

[0151] Clause 52. The energy absorber arrangement according to clause 51, wherein the securing member is an adhesive strip.

[0152] Clause 53. The energy absorber arrangement according to clause 51 or clause 52, wherein the securing member is configured to fail when a predetermined force stretches the loop. [0153] Clause 54. The energy absorber arrangement according to any preceding clause, wherein each elongate flexible element comprises two strips of material which are overlaid and connected at the ends of the strips furthest from the loop.

[0154] Clause 55. The energy absorber arrangement according to clause 54, wherein the connected ends of the overlaid strips of material are reinforced to prevent separation during deployment of the energy absorber arrangement.

[0155] Clause 56. The energy absorber arrangement according to clause 54 or clause 55, wherein the overlaid strips of material are at least partially secured together along their length by one or more tearable seams, wherein the seams are configured to tear when a predetermined force stretches the loop.

[0156] Clause 57. The energy absorber arrangement according to clause 56, wherein the tearable seams are formed by one or more of adhesive, stitching, mechanical fasteners, or interlocking connectors.

[0157] Clause 58. The energy absorber arrangement according to any preceding clause, wherein the loop has an elongate or narrow shape.

[0158] Clause 59. The energy absorber arrangement according to any preceding clause, further comprising a loading element inserted into the loop, wherein the loading element comprises an attachment portion for mounting the energy absorber arrangement to a connector.

[0159] Clause 60. The energy absorber arrangement according to clause 59 as it depends on clause 44, wherein the loading element comprises a spine portion which extends substantially parallel to the side portions of the loop, wherein at least one of the elongate flexible elements is wrapped around the spine portion.

[0160] Clause 61. The energy absorber arrangement according to clause 59 or clause 60 as it depends on clause 43 or clause 50, wherein a first loading element is inserted into the first end of the loop and a second loading element is inserted into a second end of the loop.

[0161] Clause 62. The energy absorber arrangement according to any preceding clause, wherein the loop and elongate element(s) are formed from a single piece of material.

[0162] Clause 63. The energy absorber arrangement according to clause 56, or any preceding clause dependent on clause 56, wherein the arrangement is formed of two lengths of material which are overlaid and connected at their ends and along the tearable seams to form the elongate flexible elements and the loop disposed between the tearable seams.

[0163] Clause 64. The energy absorber arrangement according to clause 62 or clause 63, wherein the material is webbing. [0164] Clause 65. An energy absorber device for use in a fall arrest system comprising the flexible energy absorber arrangement according to any preceding clause.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0165] Illustrative and non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the disclosure will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0166] FIG. la shows a side view of a housing for an energy absorber device when in the open condition;

[0167] FIG. lb shows a side view of an energy absorber device comprising the housing of

FIG. la;

[0168] FIG. 2a shows a front perspective of a housing for an energy absorber device when in the closed condition;

[0169] FIG. 2b shows the housing of FIG. 2a in the open condition;

[0170] FIG. 3 shows a loading element and connector in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure;

[0171] FIG. 4 shows an elongate flexible element secured to two loading elements as depicted in FIG. 3;

[0172] FIG. 5 is a close up illustrating how the loading elements engage the housing;

[0173] FIG. 6 is an exploded view of an energy absorber device of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, with a portion of the housing removed;

[0174] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of an assembled energy absorber device of the present disclosure, with a portion of the housing removed;

[0175] FIG. 8 shows the energy absorber device of FIG. 7 without the elongate flexible element;

[0176] FIG. 9a shows a flexible energy absorber arrangement of the present disclosure prior to insertion into the housing;

[0177] FIG. 9b shows a close up of a portion of FIG. 9a;

[0178] FIGS. 9c to 9e show the flexible energy absorber arrangement of FIG. 9a being assembled;

[0179] FIG. 9f is the flexible energy absorber arrangement of FIG. 9a fully assembled for insertion into an energy absorber device;

[0180] FIG. 10 is a prior art example of a flexible energy absorber arrangement;

[0181] FIG. 11 shows a side view of an energy absorber device of the present disclosure during deployment of the elongate flexible element; and [0182] FIG. 12 shows the device of FIG. 11 when the elongate flexible element has been fully deployed.

[0183] It should be noted that FIGS, la-12 are schematic diagrams which are not drawn to scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0184] FIG. la shows a housing 1 in accordance with some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure, when in the open condition. The housing 1 comprises a first body portion 2 and a second body portion 3. As shown, in the open condition the two body portions are completely separated.

[0185] In some non -limiting embodiments or aspects, a joint 4 extends around the circumference of the first body portion 2, such that the first body portion 2 can be removably connected to the second body portion 3 in a snap-fit arrangement.

[0186] FIG. lb shows the housing of FIG. la in the closed condition as part of an energy absorber device. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the first body portion 2 is connected to the second body portion 3 by the joint 4. A bore or channel is provided at each end of the first and second body portions 2, 3 into which a connector 5 is inserted. The connectors 5 allow each end of the device to be mounted to a karabiner or other securing means 6 which may be mounted to a safety line or to a user.

[0187] In use, if a loading force indicative of a fall arrest event is applied to one of the connectors 5 the first body portion 2 separates from the second body portion 3 along the joint 4 in the direction indicated by arrow A. The elongate flexible element contained within the housing (not shown) and mounted to the connectors 5 is then deployed in the direction indicated by arrow B. As shown, directions A is substantially transverse or perpendicular to direction B. This absorbs the energy of a fall arrest event.

[0188] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, as the housing separates in a direction (A) transverse to the direction in which the elongate flexible element is deployed, the housing can be opened without resulting in deployment of the elongate flexible element.

[0189] FIG. 2a shows a housing 10 in accordance with some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure. The housing 10 comprises a first body portion 11 and a second body portion 12. The first 11 and second 12 body portions are formed of a rigid plastic and/or metal material.

[0190] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a hinge 15 connects the first body portion 11 to the second body portion 12 at one end of the housing. [0191] At the other end of the housing 10 there is disposed a fastener arrangement 14. In this example the fastener arrangement 14 comprises a clip.

[0192] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, at each end of the housing 10, disposed proximate the hinge 15 and fastener arrangement 14, is a bore 13. Each bore 13 is configured to receive a connector therethrough (see FIGS. 6 to 8).

[0193] In FIG. 2a the housing is shown in the closed condition and the fastener arrangement 14 is in the locked position to secure the first 11 and second 12 body portions together. In this configuration the housing 10 defines an internal cavity for receiving an energy absorber arrangement therein. In the closed condition the housing 10 therefore protects the energy absorber arrangement from damage or wear prior to deployment.

[0194] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the v-shaped insignia shown on the second body portion 12 of the housing does not perform a technical function.

[0195] FIG. 2b shows the housing of FIG. 2a in the open condition. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the fastener arrangement 14 has been reconfigured to the open position allowing the first body portion 11 and second body portion 12 to separate and pivot about the hinge 15.

[0196] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the hinge 15 is depicted in FIG. 2b as a flexible joint between the two body portions 11, 12, but any type of hinge joint may be used which allows the first body portion 11 to pivot relative to the second body portion 12.

[0197] As shown, at each end of the first and second body portions 11, 12 there is provided a channel l3a, l3b which, when the housing is secured in the closed condition (see FIG. 2a) form the bores 13.

[0198] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the fastener arrangement 14 comprises a first part l4a provided on the first body portion 11 and a second part l4b provided on the second body portion 12. The fastener arrangement parts l4a, l4b are disposed at the opposing end of the body portions 11, 12 to the hinge 15. The channels l3a are provided in the parts l4a, l4b of the fastener arrangement 14.

[0199] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the first part l4a of the fastener arrangement comprises a clip which is configured to be secured in a corresponding indentation or slot in the second part l4b of the fastener arrangement (see FIG. 2a). When parts l4a, l4b are secured together the fastener arrangement is in the locked position. [0200] FIG. 3 shows a loading element 16 configured to be received within the housing 10 and a connector 20 mounted to the loading element 16. The connector 20 is a shackle, but other types of connectors may be used.

[0201] The loading element 16 comprises a spine portion 18, an attachment portion 19 and two shoulder portions 17. In other examples, the loading element 16 may comprise only a single shoulder portion 17 and/or the spine portion 18 may not be provided.

[0202] In use, the spine portion 18 extend into the cavity enclosed by the housing 10 in the closed condition. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the shoulder portions 17 are configured to transfer a loading force applied to the connector 20 to the housing 10. As such, the shoulder portions 17 are shaped to engage within a recess provided in the housing, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 7.

[0203] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the attachment portion 19 is for mounting the loading element 16 to the connector 20. In this example the attachment portion 19 comprises an aperture through which the shackle pin (or bolt) 21 is inserted. In use, the attachment portion 19 is positioned in one of the bores 13 in the housing 10 (see FIG. 8).

[0204] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the energy absorber arrangement 30 comprises an elongate flexible element 33. The elongate flexible element 33 comprises one or more lengths of fabric or webbing that absorbs the force of a falling user in a fall arrest event. The construction of the energy absorber arrangement 30 is described in more detail in FIGS. 9a to 9f below.

[0205] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, prior to deployment the elongate flexible element 33 is stored within the housing 10. FIG. 4 shows the apparatus of FIG. 3 with the elongate flexible element 33 wrapped around the spine portions 18 of two loading elements 16. In other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, only a single loading element 16 may be provided.

[0206] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the elongate flexible element 33 is wrapped around the spine portions 18 in a coiled formation, with one coil wrapped around each spine portion 18, as shown in FIG. 4.

[0207] FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the components of an energy absorber device comprising the arrangement shown in FIG. 4.

[0208] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a strip of adhesive or adhesive tape 32 is provided to secure the elongate flexible element 33 in the coiled formation around the spine portions 18 prior to deployment. This helps to keep the flexible element 33 in place if the housing is opened, and to ensure that the elongate flexible element 33 is not deployed until a force exceeding a predetermined loading force is applied to one of the connectors 20. The predetermined loading force is configured to correspond to a typical loading force resulting from a fall arrest event.

[0209] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, protruding from each end of the center of the coils is a loop 3 la formed in the elongate flexible element 33. Each loop 3 la is secured around the attachment portion 19 of one of the loading elements 16. The elongate flexible element 33 and the loading elements 16 are then inserted into the housing. Only the second body portion 12 of the housing is depicted in FIG. 6 for simplicity.

[0210] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the shackle pins 21 can then be inserted through the connector 20, the channels l3a, l3b (forming bores 13), the loops 3 la and the apertures l9a in the loading elements, as shown in FIG. 7. FIG. 8 shows the apparatus of FIG. 7 with the elongate flexible element 33 removed.

[0211] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, when a loading force is applied to one of the connectors 20, the force is transmitted from the connector 20 to the shoulder portion 17 of the loading element 16 mounted thereto. The shoulder portion 17 transmits the loading force to the body portions 11, 12 of the housing, where it is transmitted to the shoulder portion 17 of the other loading element 16 and from there to the other connector 20. If the loading force is below the predetermined loading force, the housing remains in the closed condition with the fastener arrangement 14 in the locked position and the elongate flexible element 33 is not deployed.

[0212] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, if a user unlocks the fastener arrangement 14, for example to inspect the condition of the device, the elongate flexible element 33 will not be deployed unless a force exceeding a given threshold is applied to one of the connectors 20. The threshold is at least partially determined by the properties of the adhesive strip 32 (see FIG. 6).

[0213] An example of an energy absorber arrangement 30 of the present disclosure is shown in FIG. 9a, wherein the arrangement requires assembly before insertion into an energy absorber device.

[0214] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the energy absorber arrangement 30 comprises a loop 31 and two elongate flexible elements 33 projecting from opposing sides of the loop 31. The loop 31 comprises two end portions 3 la. In other examples, only a single elongate flexible element (or leg) 33 may be provided. [0215] As shown in FIG. 9b, the energy absorber arrangement is formed of two lengths of webbing (or other material) 34, 35 which are overlaid. The layers 34, 35 are secured along the elongate flexible elements 33 by seams 38. The seams are configured to tear or fail when a predetermined force, indicative of a fall arrest event, is applied to the arrangement 30. In this example the seams are formed by sewing the layers 34, 35 together.

[0216] There are no seams 38 at the central portion of the layers 34, 35, thus the loop 31 is formed.

[0217] The ends 36 of the layers 34, 35 are secured together by reinforced seams 37 (see FIG. 9a). The reinforced seams 37 are stronger than the tearable seams 38, thereby ensuring that the ends 36 of the elongate flexible elements 33 remain attached following a fall arrest event (see

FIG. 12)

[0218] To assemble the energy absorber arrangement 30 to be inserted into a housing (see FIG. 7), a loading element 16 (if present) is inserted into each of the end portions 3 la of the loop 31 (not shown). One of the elongate flexible elements 33 is then folded upwards at a roughly 45 degree angle, so that the elongate flexible element extends in the same plane as the sides of the loop 31 (see FIG. 9c).

[0219] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the folded elongate flexible element 33 is then wrapped around the loop 31 as shown in FIG. 9d to form a coil. The loop 31 forms the axis extending through the center of the coil, such that one of the end portions 3 la of the loop 31 projects above the coil.

[0220] This process is then repeated from the other elongate flexible element 33. As shown in FIG. 9e the second flexible element is folded downwards at a roughly 45 degree angle, so that the elongate flexible element extends in the same plane as the sides of the loop 31. When folded, the loop 31 extends in a first direction and the flexible element 33 extends in a second direction transverse to the first direction but in the same plane.

[0221] The elongate elements 33 should be wrapped tightly around the loop 31 and should not be easily compressible once in the coiled formation.

[0222] FIG. 9e does not show the first element in the coiled configuration, for simplicity. The second elongate flexible element is then wrapped around the loop 31 to form a second coil disposed adjacent to the first coil, as shown in FIG. 9f. The coils are spaced along the length of the loop 31. The ends 36 of the coils may not be aligned as in FIG. 9e. [0223] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, two strips of adhesive tape 32 are used to retain the elongate flexible elements 33 in the coiled formations prior to deployment. In other examples, only a single securing member 32 may be provided.

[0224] By comparison, FIG. 10 shows a prior art example of a flexible energy absorber arrangement. The elongate flexible element 101 is not coiled as shown in FIGS. 9d or 9f. Instead, the elongate flexible element 101 is folded back on itself in a concertinaed pattern which is secured by a securing member 102. The ends 103 of the folded arrangement are difficult to neatly align and contain air gaps.

[0225] FIG. 11 shows the energy absorber device (as in FIG. 7 but with the second body portion 12 of the housing in place) when a fall arrest event occurs. In use the connectors 20 are attached either to an anchor point, a safety line or to a user.

[0226] In response to the application of a loading force indicative of a fall arrest event on one of the connectors 20, the loading element 16 disposed proximate the fastener arrangement 14 exerts a sufficient force on the fastener arrangement 14 to cause it to move to the open position, thereby opening the housing.

[0227] In some non -limiting embodiments or aspects, the clip portions l4a, l4b of the fastener arrangement 14 disconnect and the first body portion 11 begins to pivot away from the second body portion 12 about hinge 15, as shown in FIG. 11. The connector 20 and the loading element 16 that are spaced from the hinge 15 can no longer transmit the loading force to the housing 10, thus this force is now transmitted to the energy absorber arrangement 30.

[0228] This force pulls the loops 3 la away from the housing 10.

[0229] If the energy absorber arrangement 30 comprises one or more strips of adhesive or adhesive tape 32 to hold the coiled flexible element in place (as in FIG. 6 and 9f) then the adhesive fails or the tape 32 is ripped or fails when the loading force applied to the loops 3 la is indicative of a fall arrest event. Accordingly, the adhesive or adhesive tape 32 does not interfere with the deployment of the energy absorber arrangement 30.

[0230] FIG. 12 shows the device of FIG. 11 when the elongate flexible element 30 has been fully deployed. The housing is in the open condition as also shown in FIG. 2b.

[0231] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the loops 3 la of the energy absorber arrangement 30 remain secured between the connector 20 and the attachment portion 19 of the loading elements 16. The coiled formation of the elongate flexible element 33 has completely unwrapped or unravelled from around the spine portions 18 of the loading elements. The loading force has also been sufficient to tear the seams 38 between the two layers 34, 35 of the flexible element. The uncoiling and tearing of the energy absorber arrangement 30 absorbs the energy of a user’s fall.

[0232] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the reinforced stitching 37 at the ends 36 of the layers 34, 35 does not tear or fail following a fall arrest event. Thus, the energy absorber arrangement 30 forms a single loop of webbing (or other material) when deployed. It is important that the ends 36 of the layers 34, 35 remain attached as otherwise the connectors 20 would become separated.

[0233] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, he first and second body portions 11, 12 of the housing remain secured to each other at one end by the hinge 15. In addition, the housing is secured to one of the connectors 20 by the hinge 15 passing therethrough, as the body portions 11, 12 are too large to pass through the connector 20. This prevents the housing from falling away from the user during deployment of the elongate flexible element 30, which prevents the housing from injuring any workers located below the falling user.

[0234] It should be noted that the above-mentioned non-limiting embodiments or aspects illustrate rather than limit the disclosure, and that those skilled in the art will be capable of designing many alternative embodiments or aspects without departing from the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed in parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claims. The word“comprising” and “comprises”, and the like, does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those listed in any claim or the specification as a whole. In the present specification,“comprises” means“includes” and“comprising” means“including”. The singular reference of an element does not exclude the plural reference of such elements and vice-versa. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

Claims

1. An energy absorber device for use in a fall arrest system, the energy absorber device comprising:

an energy absorber arrangement comprising a loop, a first elongate flexible element connected to a first side of the loop and a second elongate flexible element connected to a second side of the loop; and

a housing having a first body portion and a second body portion defining an internal cavity therebetween for receiving at least a portion of the energy absorber arrangement,

wherein, prior to deployment of the energy absorber arrangement, the first and second elongate flexible elements are wrapped around the loop to form a coil, such that the loop extends through a center of the coil along a coil axis.

2. The energy absorber device according to claim 1, wherein the loop extends in a first direction and the first and second elongate flexible elements are wrapped around the loop in a second direction transverse to the first direction.

3. The energy absorber device according to claim 1, wherein the loop comprises a first end and a second end, the first and second ends projecting from the center of the coil.

4. The energy absorber device according to claim 1, wherein the loop comprises two opposing side portions which are substantially parallel.

5. The energy absorber device according to claim 4, wherein the opposing side portions of the loop extend in a first direction and the first and second elongate flexible elements project from each of the side portions in a second direction transverse to the first direction.

6. The energy absorber device according to claim 1, wherein the first elongate element is wrapped around the loop to form a first coil and the second elongate flexible element is wrapped around the loop to form a second coil, wherein the loop extends through a center of both the first and second coils, and wherein the first coil is disposed adjacent to the second coil.

7. The energy absorber device according to claim 6, wherein the first coil is spaced from the second coil along a major longitudinal length of the loop.

8. The energy absorber device according to claim 6, wherein the loop comprises a first end portion which projects from the center of the first coil, and a second end portion which projects from the center of the second coil.

9. The energy absorber device according to claim 6, wherein the first and second coils are retained around the loop by a securing member.

10. The energy absorber device according to claim 9, wherein the securing member is an adhesive strip.

11. The energy absorber device according to claim 1, wherein each of the first and second elongate flexible elements comprises two strips of material which are overlaid and connected at ends of the strips furthest from the loop.

12. The energy absorber device according to claim 11, wherein the connected ends of the overlaid strips of material are reinforced to prevent separation during deployment of the energy absorber arrangement.

13. The energy absorber device according to claim 11, wherein the overlaid strips of material are at least partially secured together along their length by one or more tearable seams, wherein the seams are configured to tear when a predetermined force stretches the loop.

14. The energy absorber device according to claim 13, wherein the tearable seams are formed by one or more of adhesive, stitching, mechanical fasteners, or interlocking connectors.

15. The energy absorber device according to claim 1, further comprising a loading element inserted into the loop, wherein the loading element comprises an attachment portion for mounting the energy absorber arrangement to a connector.

16. The energy absorber device according to claim 15, wherein the loading element comprises a spine portion which extends substantially parallel to the loop.

17. The energy absorber device according to claim 16, wherein at least one of the first and second elongate flexible elements is wrapped around the spine portion.

18. The energy absorber device according to claim 1, wherein a first loading element is inserted into a first end of the loop and a second loading element is inserted into a second end of the loop.

19. The energy absorber device according to claim 1 , wherein the housing is movable between a closed condition in which the first body portion and the second body portion enclose the internal cavity and an open condition in which the first body portion and the second body portion are configured to open or separate.

20. The energy absorber device according to claim 1, wherein the first and second elongate flexible elements are configured to deploy in a first direction and wherein the housing is configured to open or separate in a second direction substantially transverse to the first direction.

21. An energy absorber device for use in a fall arrest system, the energy absorber device comprising:

a housing having a first body portion and a second body portion defining an internal cavity therebetween for receiving at least a portion of the energy absorber arrangement, wherein, prior to deployment of the energy absorber arrangement, the first and second elongate flexible elements are wrapped around the loop to form a coil, such that the loop extends through a center of the coil along a coil axis.

22. The energy absorber device according to claim 21, wherein the loop extends in a first direction and the first and second elongate flexible elements are wrapped around the loop in a second direction transverse to the first direction.

23. The energy absorber device according to claim 21 or 22, wherein the loop comprises a first end and a second end, the first and second ends projecting from the center of the coil.

24. The energy absorber device according to any of claims 21-23, wherein the loop comprises two opposing side portions which are substantially parallel.

25. The energy absorber device according to claim 24, wherein the opposing side portions of the loop extend in a first direction and the first and second elongate flexible elements project from each of the side portions in a second direction transverse to the first direction.

26. The energy absorber device according to any of claims 21-25, wherein the first elongate element is wrapped around the loop to form a first coil and the second elongate flexible element is wrapped around the loop to form a second coil, wherein the loop extends through a center of both the first and second coils, and wherein the first coil is disposed adjacent to the second coil.

27. The energy absorber device according to claim 26, wherein the first coil is spaced from the second coil along a major longitudinal length of the loop.

28. The energy absorber device according to claim 26 or 27, wherein the loop comprises a first end portion which projects from the center of the first coil, and a second end portion which projects from the center of the second coil.

29. The energy absorber device according to any of claims 26-28, wherein the first and second coils are retained around the loop by a securing member.

30. The energy absorber device according to claim 29, wherein the securing member is an adhesive strip.

31. The energy absorber device according to any of claims 21-30, wherein each of the first and second elongate flexible elements comprises two strips of material which are overlaid and connected at ends of the strips furthest from the loop.

32. The energy absorber device according to claim 31, wherein the connected ends of the overlaid strips of material are reinforced to prevent separation during deployment of the energy absorber arrangement.

33. The energy absorber device according to claim 31 or 32, wherein the overlaid strips of material are at least partially secured together along their length by one or more tearable seams, wherein the seams are configured to tear when a predetermined force stretches the loop.

34. The energy absorber device according to claim 33, wherein the tearable seams are formed by one or more of adhesive, stitching, mechanical fasteners, or interlocking connectors.

35. The energy absorber device according to any of claims 21-34, further comprising a loading element inserted into the loop, wherein the loading element comprises an attachment portion for mounting the energy absorber arrangement to a connector.

36. The energy absorber device according to claim 35, wherein the loading element comprises a spine portion which extends substantially parallel to the loop.

37. The energy absorber device according to claim 36, wherein at least one of the first and second elongate flexible elements is wrapped around the spine portion.

38. The energy absorber device according to any of claims 21-37, wherein a first loading element is inserted into a first end of the loop and a second loading element is inserted into a second end of the loop.

39. The energy absorber device according to any of claims 21-38, wherein the housing is movable between a closed condition in which the first body portion and the second body portion enclose the internal cavity and an open condition in which the first body portion and the second body portion are configured to open or separate.

40. The energy absorber device according to any of claims 21-39, wherein the first and second elongate flexible elements are configured to deploy in a first direction and wherein the housing is configured to open or separate in a second direction substantially transverse to the first direction.

41. A flexible energy absorber arrangement, comprising: a loop; and

an elongate flexible element connected to the loop, wherein, prior to deployment, the elongate flexible element is wrapped around the loop to form a coil, such that the loop extends through the center of the coil along the coil axis.

42. The energy absorber arrangement according to claim 41, wherein the loop extends in a first direction and the elongate flexible element is wrapped around the loop in a second direction transverse to the first direction.

43. The energy absorber arrangement according to claim 41 or claim 42, wherein the loop comprises a first end and a second end and the first and second ends of the loop project from the center of the coil.

44. The energy absorber arrangement according to any preceding claim, wherein the loop comprises two opposing side portions which are substantially parallel.

45. The energy absorber arrangement according to claim 44, wherein the opposing side portions of the loop extend in a first direction and the elongate flexible element projects from one of the side portions in a second direction transverse to the first direction.

46. The energy absorber arrangement according to any preceding claim, comprising a first elongate flexible element and a second elongate flexible element connected to the loop.

47. The energy absorber arrangement according to claim 46 as it depends on claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the first and second elongate flexible elements project from opposing sides of the loop.

48. The energy absorber arrangement according to any preceding claim, wherein the first elongate element is wrapped around the loop to form a first coil and the second elongate flexible element is wrapped around the loop to form a second coil, wherein the loop extends through the center of both the first and second coils and the first coil is disposed adjacent to the second coil.

49. The energy absorber arrangement according to claim 48, wherein the first coil is spaced from the second coil along the length of the loop.

50. The energy absorber arrangement according to claim 48 or claim 49, wherein the loop comprises a first end which projects from the center of the first coil, and a second end which projects from the center of the second coil.

51. The energy absorber arrangement according to any preceding claim, wherein each coil is retained around the loop by a securing member.

52. The energy absorber arrangement according to claim 51, wherein the securing member is an adhesive strip.

53. The energy absorber arrangement according to claim 51 or claim 52, wherein the securing member is configured to fail when a predetermined force stretches the loop.

54. The energy absorber arrangement according to any preceding claim, wherein each elongate flexible element comprises two strips of material which are overlaid and connected at the ends of the strips furthest from the loop.

55. The energy absorber arrangement according to claim 54, wherein the connected ends of the overlaid strips of material are reinforced to prevent separation during deployment of the energy absorber arrangement.

56. The energy absorber arrangement according to claim 54 or claim 55, wherein the overlaid strips of material are at least partially secured together along their length by one or more tearable seams, wherein the seams are configured to tear when a predetermined force stretches the loop.

57. The energy absorber arrangement according to claim 56, wherein the tearable seams are formed by one or more of adhesive, stitching, mechanical fasteners, or interlocking connectors.

58. The energy absorber arrangement according to any preceding claim, wherein the loop has an elongate or narrow shape.

59. The energy absorber arrangement according to any preceding claim, further comprising a loading element inserted into the loop, wherein the loading element comprises an attachment portion for mounting the energy absorber arrangement to a connector.

60. The energy absorber arrangement according to claim 59 as it depends on claim 4, wherein the loading element comprises a spine portion which extends substantially parallel to the side portions of the loop, wherein at least one of the elongate flexible elements is wrapped around the spine portion.

61. The energy absorber arrangement according to claim 59 or claim 60 as it depends on claim 43 or claim 50, wherein a first loading element is inserted into the first end of the loop and a second loading element is inserted into a second end of the loop.

62. The energy absorber arrangement according to any preceding claim, wherein the loop and elongate element(s) are formed from a single piece of material.

63. The energy absorber arrangement according to claim 56, or any preceding claim dependent on claim 56, wherein the arrangement is formed of two lengths of material which are overlaid and connected at their ends and along the tearable seams to form the elongate flexible elements and the loop disposed between the tearable seams.

64. The energy absorber arrangement according to claim 62 or claim 63, wherein the material is webbing.

65. An energy absorber device for use in a fall arrest system comprising the flexible energy absorber arrangement according to any preceding claim.