GB2448520A

GB2448520A - Safety line quick release

Info

Publication number: GB2448520A
Application number: GB0707514A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Christopher Ross Hill
Original assignee: Spinlock Ltd
Current assignee: Spinlock Ltd
Priority date: 2007-04-18
Filing date: 2007-04-18
Publication date: 2008-10-22
Also published as: GB0707514D0

Abstract

A safety line terminates in a section having a series of flexible loops 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L extending from a base member 3. The end of the section attaches in use to an anchor point 31 and is retained by first loop 7 in the series being inserted through an anchor loop 5 and the remaining loops 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L; 7L being inserted through the preceding loop to form a linked sequence (fig. 3). A retaining device (such as that shown at 121) secures the final loop 7L which is releasable to allow each loop in the linked sequence to disengage from the preceding loop until the first loop 7 disengages from the anchor loop 5 and the line detaches. The intention is to employ a sufficiently long chain of loops to reduce the release force so as to allow a quick release of the safety line. Various forms of retaining device for the final loop 7L and ways of attaching the line to an anchor point are disclosed.

Description

S

TITLE OF THE INVENTION

SAFETY LINE

FIELD OF INVENTION

The invention relates to a safety line terminator and a safety line comprising a safety line terminator.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

Safety of sailors and boat crew is of paramount importance when boats and vessels are in open water. To ensure the safety of the crew tether lines or safety lines are conventionally used to attach the crew member to the vessel. The safety line is attached at one end to the crew member and at the other end to the vessel. The safety line allows the crew member limited free movement about the deck of the vessel whilst also serving to secure the crew member to the vessel should he slip or be struck by a wave or if subject to another condition in which he finds himself falling overboard.

Generally, the two attachment points on the safety line are each provided by locking hooks such that they are secured against accidental release. However, in the situation where the crew member falls overboard, in particular if attached to a vessel travelling at speed such an arrangement can put the crew member in danger in that they could be struck by the vessel or that they could be dragged through the water at high speed. It will be appreciated that in this situation the safety line is in tension and loads in excess of one tonne may be experienced at each hook. As such the crew member would find it very difficult, if not impossible, to release the hook.

A solution to this problem has been provided by a pin received in a hole to secure the hook to the end of the safety line. If the situation described above arises then the requirement for the crew member to open the hook is dispensed with, but instead he needs to remove the pin which disengages the end of the safety line from the hook attachment.

Such an arrangement is not ideal because the accuracy of fitting the pin is of utmost importance so that the pin does not release from the safety line accidentally and that the pin cannot be removed accidentally. Moreover, when the safety line is in tension the crew member needs to be able to release the pin quick'y. t will be appreciated that opening of the hook or the removal of the pin to release the crew member from the safety line requires concentration and strength of the crew member in what is likely to be a very stressful situation. Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a safety line or tether which requires the minimum of effort and knowledge on the part of the crew member to disengage him from the safety line and also to provide a safety line that requires physical disengagement of the safety line to release it from the crew member or vessel. "*

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a safety line terminator comprising a base member having an anchor loop at one end, a series of flexible loops extending from the base member, a first loop in the series being insertable through the anchor loop and the remaining loops each being insertable through a preceding loop to form a linked sequence; and a retaining device releasably engageable with a last loop in the series to secure the linked sequence, wherein release of the last loop from the retaining device allows each ioop to disengage from the preceding ioop until the first loop disengages from the anchor loop.

A safety line terminator in accordance with embodiments of the invention can be attached to existing safety lines or can be included integrally as the end of a safety line.

A safety line terminator in accordance with embodiments of the invention provides a quick release system that requires physical release by action upon the releasable retaining device to release the last loop of the linked sequence. Releasing the last loop facilitates disengagement of the remaining loops in the series. The requirement of physical release of the last loop safeguards the user against accidental disengagement of the loops in the linked sequence. Advantageously, the arrangement of the series of loops means that the physical release of the last loop from the retaining device requires reduced effort by the user to release the last loop because the load experienced by each loop in the linked sequence is substantially half the load experienced by the preceding loop in the series.

In some embodiments the retaining device may comprise a retaining member that is attachable to the base member and a pin that engages with the last loop in the series by passing through the loop to secure the linked sequence. The retaining member comprises two spaced apart sections each including a hollow section that may be in the form of a through bore. The spacing between the two sections allows the last loop to be inserted into the space and for the pin to engage with the last loop; engagement of the pin with the last loop secures the last loop.

In one embodiment the retaining member has the form of a substantially U-shaped shackle, wherein the hollow sections are provided by through bores provided on each leg. At the base of the U-shape the shackle may comprise a slot that facilitates attachment of the shackle to the base member. A section of the base member material may be passed through the slot and then may be stitched in place to secure the shackle to the base member.

To secure the last loop in the linked sequence the last loop is inserted into the space between the two legs and the pin is inserted through the bores and also passes through the last loop.

The pin may comprise a stem and an enlarged head. The enlarged head provides a larger surface to make gripping easier and facilitates easy removal of the pin from the retaining member. The pin may also comprise a releasable clamp member. The releasable clamp may be attached to the head of the pm and may be rotatable relative to the head to clamp down on the last loop to secure it against release.

In an alternative embodiment a shaft is insertable through the through bores and a pin is mounted on the shaft. The pin extends from the recess in the retaining member and is rotatable about the shalt. The pin is insertable through the last loop in the linked sequence which is secured against release by rotating the pin in a direction away from the direction of the preceding loop to the last loop.

In one embodiment the retaining member may be provided by a piece of folded material, wherein coincident with the fold there are provided two hollow sections that are spaced apart by a recess. The recess is provided to allow the rotatable pin to extend up from the shaft towards the last loop in the series of loops. Such an arrangement allows the stitching of the piece of folded material sufficiently to hold the shaft in place whilst also allowing the pin to rotate.

To safeguard against accidental release of the pin, a cap may be provided that can engage with the pin to secure the linked sequence. The cap may be slidably attached to the backing member to slidably engage and disengage with the pin.

In an alternative embodiment the retaining device may comprise a band or strip attached to the base member. To secure the last loop of the linked sequence the band or strip may comprise sections of hook and loop fastener that are secured to each other around the last loop to secure the linked sequence. Alternatively, the band or strip may be tied around the last loop to secure the linked sequence. Advantageously, a band or strip of material is easily grasped by the user and would be easy to release in a stressful situation as described above. Such an arrangement is suitable when the load acting on the last loop is sufficiently reduced relative to the load on the anchor loop.

In each of the embodiments described the safety line terminator may further comprise an additional safeguard against accidental disengagement of the linked sequence in the form of a sleeve that can cover at least the last loop in the linked sequence and the retaining device.

As described above, the safety line terminator requires physical release of the last loop from the retaining device to allow disengagement of the remaining loops in the linked sequence. To release the last loop the sleeve is moved to expose the last loop and the retaining device. Exposure of the last loop and retaining device may be obtained by a sleeve that slides along the base member. Alternatively, exposure of the last loop and retaining device may be obtained by a sleeve that is at least partially removable from the base member. For example, the sleeve may be attached to the back of the base member and may wrap around the base member to cover the last loop and the retaining device. In this example exposure of the last ioop is provided by unwrapping the sleeve.

The series of loops may be provided by discrete ioops individually attached to the base member or by a series of loops formed by folding a single piece of material.

The base member may comprise two sections that are joined together with part of each loop sandwiched therebetween. This arrangement provides a robust system wherein the risk of a loop detaching from the base member is reduced.

The base member may be made of a flexible load bearing webbing material and the anchor loop may be an integral part of the base member. The series of loops may also be made of flexible webbing material or similar material. Such an arrangement reduces or eliminates the use of metal parts and assists in keeping the weight of the safety line or safety line terminator as carried by the user to a minimum.

The safety line terminator may be formed as an integral part of a safety line.

Alternatively, the safety line terminator may be attached to an end of an existing safety line. The safety line terminator may comprise a connector at the opposite end to the anchor loop. The connector may take the same form as the anchor loop and be formed as an integral part of the safety line terminator. Alternatively, the connector may be provided by a suitable ring or hook for attachment to an existing connector on a safety line.

Although the invention is set out in the accompanying independent claim, other aspects of the invention include any combination of features from the described embodiments and/or the accompanying dependent claims with the features of the independent claim, and not solely the combinations explicitly set out in the accompanying claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a better understanding of the invention and to show how the same may be carried into effect reference will now be made by way of example to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a safety line terminator according to an embodiment of the invention including a series of disengaged loops; Figure 2 is a perspective view of a series of loops as produced for use in the safety line terminator of Figure 1; Figure 3 is a perspective view of the safety line terminator of Figure 1, including a series of engaged loops; Figure 4 is a perspective view of the safety line terminator of Figures 1 and 3, including a retaining device in the form of a retaining member and pin according to a first embodiment of the invention; Figure 4A is a perspective view of the retaining member as illustrated in Figure 4; Figure 5 is a perspective view of the safety line terminator of Figures 1 and 3; including an alternative retaining device to that of Figure 4; Figure 5A is a perspective view of the retaining member of Figure 5; Figure 6 is a perspective view of the safety line terminator of Figures 1 to 5A including a sleeve; Figure 7A is a perspective view of an alternative retaining member to those of Figures 4 and 5 and for use with the safety line terminator of Figure 1; Figures 7B and 7C show a perspective view of a pin and shaft assembly for use with the retaining members of Figures 4A, 5A and 6A; Figures 7D and 7E show a perspective view of a rotating pin and cap that is engageable with the pin; Figure 7F shows a perspective view of the pin and cap arrangement of Figures 7D and 7E including a sleeve; Figure 8 is a perspective view of a part of the safety line terminator including a retaining device according to a further embodiment of the invention; S. Figure 9 is a perspective view of a part of the safety line terminator including a retaining device according to a yet further embodiment of the invention; Figure 10 represents a method of attaching the safety line terminator of Figure I to an anchor point; Figures 1 IA to lID represents the steps of an alternative method to that of Figure 10 showing attachment of the safety line terminator to an anchor point.

While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments are shown by way of example in the drawings and are herein described in detail. It should be understood, however, that drawings and detailed description thereto are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the scope of the claimed invention. S.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to Figure 1, there is illustrated a perspective view of an end section of a safety line or tether according to an embodiment of the invention. The end section of the safety line that is shown is attachable to an anchor point on a crew member on a vessel. The other end (not shown) of the safety line is attachable to the vessel such that the crew member can be tethered to the vessel at all times.

The section of the safety line as illustrated in Figure 1 is hereinafter referred to as a safety line terminator 1 because the safety line terminator 1 may be a short section that is attachable to the end of an existing safety line. Alternatively, the safety line terminator 1 may be provided as an integral part at the end of a safety line. The safety line terminator may be provided on the end of the safety line that is attachable to the crew member, or the safety line terminator may be provided at the end of the safety line attachable to the vessel or a safety line terminator may be provided at both ends of the safety line.

The safety line terminator 1 as illustrated in Figure 1 comprises a base member 3 that is made of polyester webbing material and a series of flexible loops 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L extending from and being attached to the base member 3. The flexible loops 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L may be made of the same polyester webbing material as the base member 3. Alternatively, the flexible loops 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L may be made of another suitably flexible material, for example rope or cord.

The base member 3 comprises a folded strip of material, which when folded comprises an upper section 3A and a lower section 3B. In this example, the series of loops comprises five loops 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L. An anchor loop 5 is formed as an integral part of the base member 3 and is coincident with the fold. The anchor loop 5 is the preceding loop to the first loop 7 and is engageable with the first ioop 7 of the series of five loops 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L to form a linked sequence as described below.

Also, the anchor loop 5, when engaged allows the safety line terminator 1 to be secured to an anchor point on a safety harness, a s discussed further below.

The series of loops 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L are each attached at intervals to the base member 3 with the bottom part of each loop 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L being sandwiched between the upper section 3A and the lower section 3B of the base member 3. Each loop 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L is secured in place by stitching the upper section 3A and lower section 3B of the base member 3 together.

Each loop 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L may be sewn in place at spaced intervals along the safety line terminator 1. Each loop 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L may be provided by an individual loop. Alternatively, the loops 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L may be formed from a single piece 70 of material as illustrated in Figure 2, wherein the loops 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L are produced by forming a system of coils 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L and substantially L-shaped sections 7" which defines the spacing between each loop 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L.

The upper section 3A and lower section 3B of the base member 3 are joined together as described above with a lower part of either the individual loops 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L or the lower L-shaped section of the loops 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L that are produced from a single piece of material 70 sandwiched and secured between them.

Referring to Figures 1 and 3, the anchor loop 5 and the series of loops 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L are linked together to form a linked sequence. The linked sequence is formed by sequentially threading each ioop 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L in the series through the preceding ioop in the series. The anchor ioop 5 provides the preceding ioop to the first loop 7 of the series of loops. The first loop 7 in the series of loops 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L is the preceding loop to the second loop 7A in the series of loops 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L. The second loop 7A in the series of loops 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L is the preceding ioop to the third ioop 7B in the series. The penultimate loop 7C in the series of loops 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L is the preceding ioop to the last loop 7L.

The linked sequence is formed by threading the first loop 7 of the series of five loops 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L through the anchor ioop 5, followed by threading the second loop 7A in the series of five ioops 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L through the first ioop 7, threading the third loop 7B in the series of five loops 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L through the second loop 7A, threading the fourth and penultimate ioop 7C in the series of five loops 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L through the third loop 7B and threading the fifth and last loop 7L in the series of five loops 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L through the fourth and penultimate loop 7C. The last loop 7L in the series 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L is loose and free until it is engaged with a retaining device such as those illustrated in Figures 4 to 9.

The retaining device holds the last loop 7L against disengaging from the penultimate loop 7C and hence the linked sequence is prevented from disengaging until the retaining device is physically released from contact with the last loop 7L.

Examples of suitable retaining devices are illustrated in Figures 4 to 9 and discussed below with reference to Figures 4 to 9.

Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a safety line terminator I that comprises two loops 7, 7L in the series, wherein the anchor loop 5 is engaged with the first loop 7 and the first loop 7 is engaged with the last loop 7L. The safety line terminator I includes a retaining device in the form of a shackle 15 that cooperates with a pin 11.

The shackle 15 comprises a substantially U-shaped member. The U-shaped member includes a base section that includes a slot I 5A through which the free end of the upper section 3A of the base member 3 passes to attach the shackle 15 to the base member 3. To secure the shackle 15 to the base member 3 the free end of the upper section 3A is secured to the lower section 3B of the base member 3. In the example illustrated the upper section 3A and lower section 3B of the base member 3 are secured by being stitched together.

The leg portions 1 SC, 1 SD of the U-shaped shackle 15 are each shaped with a bulbous end and each includes a through bore.

In the example illustrated, the pin 11 includes a stem portion 1 1A, an enlarged head 11B and a clamp 1 1C attached to and rotatable relative to the head 1 lB. The enlarged head 11 B is provided for ease of grip. The stem portion I IA of the pin 11 and the through bores in the leg portions 15C, 15D are dimensioned such that the pin 11 can be easily inserted and extracted from the bore requiring minimum effort from the user. The enlarged head 11 B assists in reducing the effort of removal of the pin 11 from the bore because the pin head 1 lB can be gripped easily.

Using the pin II and shackle 15 arrangement to engage the last loop 7L and to secure the linked sequence against disengaging involves the last loop 7L of the series of loops being inserted into the opening I SB of the shackle 15 and the stem 11 A of the pin 11 being inserted into the bore of the first leg 15C, then the stem hA passes through the last loop 7L and finally the stem I lA passes through the bore of the second leg 15D of the LI-shaped shackle 15.

To ensure that the pin 11 does not slip from the shackle 15 the clamp 11 C that is provided rotates relative to the head 1 lB of the pin 11 and is locked in place.

Locking of the clamp 11 C can be achieved in many suitable ways. For example, if the stem HA protrudes slightly from the bore on the second leg 15D the clamp I1C may be locked against the stem ii A. Alternatively, the clamp 11 C may be locked against the shackle 15. The clamp 1 1C may be spring loaded to minimise the effort required by the user to release the clamp 1 1C.

To release the last loop 7L the clamp I 1C is released by rotating it towards the head 1IB and the pin 11 is withdrawn from the last loop 7L by pulling on the head 11 B to withdraw the pin 11 from the shackle 15. By releasing the last loop 7L, the linked sequence of loops is allowed to disengage by each ioop disengaging from the preceding loop.

Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a safety line terminator 1 comprising two loops 7, 7L in the series, wherein the anchor loop 5 is engaged with the first loop 7 and the first loop 7 is engaged with the last loop 7L. The safety line terminator 1 includes a retaining device provided by the combination of a retaining member 115 attached to the base member 3 and a pin 11, 17.

Figure 5A shows a perspective view of the retaining member 115, which is included in the safety line terminator shown in Figure 5. The retaining member 115 is slightly wider and deeper than the width and depth of the base member 3. It includes a slot 11 5A large enough to allow, during manufacture of the safety line terminator 1, the retaining member 115 to slide over the base member 3 into a suitable position. A suitable position is such that the last loop 7L reaches the centre of the retaining member 115 when the linked sequence is formed. The retaining member 115 is secured in place to the base member 3, for example, by stitching.

The retaining member 115 includes a recess 11 5B in its top face. The recess 11 5B defines the inner surfaces of two side walls 11 5C, 11 SD. Each side wall 11 5C, 11 5D includes a through bore for receiving a retaining pin 11, 17. The cross sectional shape of the retaining member taken along the axis of the base member 3 has an enlarged section near the centre. The enlarged section on each side includes the through bores for receiving the retaining pin 11, 17.

Illustrated in Figure 5 are examples of two different pin 11, 17 configurations that are suitable for use with the retaining member 115.

The first pin configuration 11 illustrated in Figure 5 corresponds with the example illustrated and described with reference to Figure 4. In the example illustrated in Figure 5, the linked sequence of loops is retained by inserting the last loop 7L is into the recess 11 5B, followed by inserting the stem 11 A through the bore in the first side wall 1 15C, then passing the stem 1 lÀ through the last loop 7L and finally passing the stem 1 1A through the bore in the second side wall 1 15D. The clamp 1 1C is rotated away from the head 1 lB towards the stem hA to lock the pin 11 in place.

The second pin configuration 17 as illustrated in Figure 5 comprises a stem I 7A and an enlarged head I 7B. To engage the last ioop 7L of the linked sequence the last loop 7L is inserted into the recess 11 5B then the stem I 7A is inserted through the bore in the first side wall 1 15C, then the stem passes through the last loop 7L in the recess 1 15B and finally the stem 1 1A passes through the bore in the second side wall ll5D. The pin 17 retains the last loop.

To secure the pin 17 in place a split pin or similar fastener (not shown) may be inserted through a hole 1 7C that is included at the end of the stem 17A that protrudes from the second side wall 11 5D. Alternatively, or in addition, a sleeve 19 may be included on the safety line terminator 1.

Figure 6 shows a perspective view of a safety line terminator 1 including a sleeve 19 that protects the linked sequence and the retaining member against premature release. In the example shown in Figure 6 the safety line terminator 1 includes a sleeve 19 that covers the linked sequence from the first loop 7 to the last loop 7L and the retaining means (not shown). If used the sleeve 19 needs to cover at least the region of the linked sequence that is occupied by the last loop 7L and the pin 17 such that the pin 17 is secured in place. To effect release of the linked sequence the user needs to physically move or remove the sleeve 19 to expose the underlying last loop 7L, the pin and the retaining member. In the example illustrated in Figure 5 the sleeve 19 is arranged to slide along the base member 3 as indicated by the arrow.

The sleeve 19 slides along the safety line in a direction away from the anchor loop 5 to expose the linked sequence and to expose the last loop 7L, the pin and the retaining *1 member. Alternatively, the sleeve may be provided as a removable wrap wherein removal of the sleeve exposes the last loop, the pin and the retaining member. In the examples illustrated in Figures 4 and 5 physical movement or removal of the sleeve 19 allows access to the pin 11, 17 such that it can be removed to effect release of the last loop 7L.

Figure 7A shows a perspective view of an alternative retaining member 215 to that illustrated in Figures 5 and 5A.

The retaining member 215 includes an elongated hole 215B in the upper section 3A of the base member 3 and two bushes 215C, 215D sandwiched between the upper section 3A arid the lower section 3B of the base member 3. Between the inner faces of the two bushes 21 5C, 21 5D a gap that has a width substantially equivalent to the width of the elongate hole is provided. Combined the gap and elongate hole provide a recess 21 5B into which the last loop 7L of the series of loops can be received. As discussed above a pin can be inserted through the through bores and the last loop to secure the last loop.

Refethng to Figures 7B and 7C each show a perspective view of an assembly that comprises a rotatable pin 21. In this example, the pin 21 is rotatably mounted on a short shaft 23 that is received in the bores provided in the side walls of the retaining members 15; 115 as illustrated in Figures 4, 4A, 5 and 5A or the bushes 215C, 215D in the retaining member 215 as illustrated in Figure 7A. The pin 21 includes a stem portion 21A and a bulbous portion 2lB having a through bore that provides for concentrically mounting the pin 21 on the shaft 23. The stem 21A extends upwards from the shaft 23 and protrudes from the recess 15B; 115B; 215B in the retaining members 15; 115; 215 as illustrated in Figures 4, 4A, 5, 5A and 7A. The gap is configured to receive the bottom bulbous portion 21B of a rotatable pin 21 as illustrated in Figures 7B and 7C.

The axis of the shaft 23 about which the pin 21 rotates is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the safety line terminator 1.

Using the pin 21 as illustrated in Figures 7B and 7C to complete the linked sequence of loops as described above with reference to Figures 3, 4, 4A, 5, 5A and 7A to 7C the last loop 7L passes over the stem portion 21A and the pin 21 rotates in a direction away from the anchor loop 5 to hold the last loop 7L and to prevent the linked sequence from disengaging.

By reversing the rotation of the pin 21 in a direction towards the end of the safety line terminator 1 that includes the anchor loop 5 the last loop 7L can be released from the pin 21 and the other loops forming the linked sequence can be disengaged.

To prevent premature release of the last loop 7L the pin 21 should be retained against rotation in a direction towards the anchor loop 5 and the preceding loops in the series. A sleeve 19 as illustrated in Figure 6 may be included in the safety line comprising the pin arrangements shown inFigures 7B and 7C. The physical movement or removal of the sleeve allows the pin 21 to rotate in a direction towards the end of the safety line terminator 1 that includes the anchor loop 5 to effect release of the last loop 7L from the pin 21.

Figures 7B and 7C show examples of how to retain the shaft 23 in the retaining member 15; 115; 215 as illustrated in Figures 4, 4A, 5, 5A and 7A. In Figure lB the shaft 23 includes enlarged ends such that the pin cannot pass through the bores. In Figure 7C the shaft 23 includes through holes provided near its ends: A split pin or other suitable fastener can be inserted into the through holes to retain the shaft 23 in the retaining member 215.

The linked sequence can be disengaged following release of the last loop 7L by applying a load to the end of the safety line terminator I that includes the anchor ioop 5. The applied load pulls on the anchor ioop 5 that in turn pulls the first loop 7 of the series which sequentially pulls the subsequent loop of the series until the last loop 7L of the series is reached. When the last loop 7L is released it is pulled through the preceding loop, which passes through its preceding loop and so on until the anchor loop 5 is released to the form illustrated in Figure 1.

In a dangerous situation, for example when a crew member is attached to the safety line and falls overboard, the key elements to quickly releasing the crew member from the safety line are the tension in the safety line and the releasable retaining member.

In the example described with reference to Figures 7B and 7C the loops of the linked sequence can be disengaged from each other relatively simply and quite effortlessly by removing or sliding the sleeve 19 to expose the pin 21. When a load is *0 applied to the end of the safety line terminator 1 that includes the anchor loop 5 the effective tension pulls on the linked sequence that causes the exposed pin 21 to rotate thereby releasing the last loop 7L.

Figure 7D shows a perspective view of a rotating pin 121 that includes a stem 121A that is engageable with the last loop 7L in the series of loops. The pin 121 has a kinked section that defines on one side of the kinked section the stem 121 A and on the other side of the kinked section the end of the pin 121 B that is rotatably mounted on a shaft 123 which is fixed to the backing member 3.

In the example illustrated, a portion of material 3A that may be the same material as the backing member 3 and including a hole 3B is foldable to provide a retaining member 515 to secure the shaft 123 and the pin 121 to the backing member 3. When the portion of material 3A is folded the hole 3B provides a recess that is wide enough to receive the end of the pin 121B and to allow the pin 121 to rotate around the shaft 123. In the region of the fold two loops are formed one each side of the recess.

The shaft 123 is inserted into both loops and into a bore provided on the end 121 B of the pin 121. The retaining member 515 is secured to the backing member, for example, by stitching.

In this example, the stem 121A is inserted into the last loop 7L and the pin 121 rotates in a direction away from the anchor loop 5 to hold the last loop 7L. A cap 125 is provided to retain the pin 121 against rotation in a direction towards the anchor loop and to prevent the linked sequence from disengagement. The cap 125 may be made of plastic material and has an internal profile that corresponds with the shape of the stem 121 A. The cap 125 is slidably mounted on the backing member 3 such that when the pin 121 is holding the last loop 7L the cap 125 is slid along the backing member 3 in a direction towards the anchor ioop and the stem 121 A is inserted into the cap 125 to hold the pin 121 against rotation until the cap 125 is physically removed from contact with the pin 121.

In Figure 7D the arrow 125A indicates that the cap 125 slides in a direction away from the anchor ioop 5 to allow the pin 121 to rotate in a direction towards the anchor loop 5 as shown by arrow 125B such that the last loop 7L is released and the remaining loops in the linked sequence are disengageable.

Figure 7E shows a perspective view of a secured linked sequence of loops, wherein the stem 121A of the pin 121 is inserted through the last loop 7L in the series and into the cap 125. The arrow 125A as described above in respect of Figure 7D indicates the direction that the cap 125 slides to release the pin 121.

Figure 7F shows a perspective view of a safety line terminator 1 including a sleeve 119 that protects the linked sequence, the pin 121 and the cap 125 against premature release. In the example shown in Figure 7F the safety line terminator 1 includes a sleeve 119 that covers the linked sequence from the first loop 7 to the last loop 7L and includes an opening through which the cap 125 and part of pin 121 and last loop are exposed. The sleeve 119 provides additional security against premature release of the cap 125 and the pin 121 and acts to retain the cap 125 in the locked position until the sleeve 119 is physically removed or moved. In the example illustrated in Figure 7F, to cause release of the linked sequence the user needs to physically move the sleeve 119. By sliding the sleeve 119 in the direction away from the anchor loop 5, as shown by arrow 11 9A, the cap 125 also slides to release the pin 121, which allows the pin 121 to rotate in the direction towards the anchor loop 5 to release the last loop. In an alternative arrangement, the sleeve 119 may be provided, for example, as a removable wrap wherein removal of the sleeve 119 exposes the last loop 7L, the pin 121 and the cap 125. By physically removing the sleeve 119 to expose the cap 125 and the linked sequence, the cap 125 can slide along the backing member 3 to release the pin 121 and the last loop 7L, which allows the linked sequence to disengage.

When the safety line terminator I is under tension, for example when a crew member falls overboard, each loop 7, 7A, 7B, 7C and 7L in the linked sequence is effective in reducing the load experienced by the preceding loop. The load experienced by each subsequent loop in the series is approximately half the load experienced by the preceding loop. The anchor loop 5 at the end of the safety line terminator 1 provides the attachment point to the crew member. The anchor loop 5 may be subject to tension in the region of one tonne (9.SkN) for an average person overboard. Therefore, in the example of Figures 4 and 5 which include two loops 7, 7L the load acting on the retaining pin is in the region of 0. 125 tonnes (1.25kN) and in the example as illustrated in Figure 3 that includes five loops 7, 7A, 7B, 7C and 7L the load acting on the retaining pm is in the region of 15.6 kilograrnmes (0.l5kN).

Therefore, in the second example it is much easier for the user to release the last loop 7L because the effort required by the user is greatly reduced. By increasing the number of loops used on the safety line terminator 1 the load experienced by the last loop is greatly reduced. If a sufficient number of loops are used the load experienced in the last loop can be reduced to an almost negligible amount.

If a sufficient number of loops are used the load on the last loop 7L is therefore very low and a pin may not be necessary to secure the last loop. Hook and loop fastening, such as VELCRO , may be used to retain the last loop. Referring to Figure 8, the retaining member 315 may take the form of a band or strip that includes at least a section of hook or loop fasteners that is engageable with a corresponding section of hook or ioop fasteners included on a section attached to the base member 3. To secure the linked sequence of loops one end of the band or strip passes through the last loop 7L and that end is engaged by pressing the two sections of hook and loop fasteners together.

Referring to Figure 9, when the safety line is under tension and a sufficient number of loops are used to significantly reduce the load experienced by the last loop 7L, the method used to retain the last loop 7L may comprise merely tying the loop 7L in place. One end of a cord 415 that is attached to the base member 3 passes through the last loop 7L and that end is tied together with another end of the cord to tie the last loop 7L in place. A quick release knot could be used such that the cord 415 and hence the linked sequence can be released almost effortlessly by simply pulling on a free end of the cord 415.

Referring to Figure 6, the sleeve 19 as illustrated may be included in a safety line terminator 1 that includes the retaining members as illustrated and described with reference to Figures 8 and 9. Referring to Figure 8, the removal or sliding of the sleeve 19 allows access to the strip of hook and loop fastener such that it can be released to effect release of the last loop 7L and in the example illustrated in Figure 9, removal or sliding of the sleeve 19 allows access to untie the cord 415.

Referring to Figures 10 and 11, two different methods of attaching the safety line terminator 1 to an anchor point on for example a harness (not shown) worn by a crew member on a vessel are illustrated. In the examples illustrated the anchor point 31 to which the safety line is attachable is provided by a frontal strap.

Referring to Figure 10, the attachment of the safety line terminator ito the frontal strap 31 is produced by passing the anchor loop 5 up behind the frontal strap 31 and bringing the anchor loop 5 over the top of the frontal strap 31 and towards the exterior side of the frontal strap 31 in the direction of the safety line terminator 1. To attach the safety line terminator 1 the linked sequence is formed by threading the first loop 7 of the series of five loops 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L through the anchor loop 5.

Sequentially, each subsequent ioop 7A, 7B, 7C, 7L in the series is threaded through the preceding loop in the series; namely, the second loop 7A in the series of five loops is threaded through the first ioop 7, the third loop 7B in the series of five loops is threaded through the second loop 7A, the fourth loop 7C in the series of five loops is threaded through the third loop 7B and the fifth loop 7L in the series of five loops is threaded through the fourth loop 7C. The last loop 7L in the series is free until it is engaged with a retaining member as described above with reference to Figures 4 to 9.

If the safety line terminator 1 is attached to the crew member in the manner illustrated in Figure 10 it can only be removed from the crew member by physically disengaging the linked sequence.

The second example of attaching the safety line 1 to the crew member provides an alternative to this. As illustrated in Figures 1 1A to liD, the linked sequence of loops is formed before attaching the safety line terminator 1 or a safety line that includes the safety line terminator 1 to the frontal strap 31 and need not be disengaged to remove the safety line terminator 1 from the crew member.

Figure 11 A shows a perspective view of the safety line terminator 1 attached to the frontal strap 31 by tying the safety line terminator I to the frontal strap using a cow hitch knot or larks head knot.

Figures 1 IB, 1 1C and 1 1D show the stages of attaching the safety line terminator 1 to the frontal strap when the series of loops is already engaged in a linked sequence.

Referring to Figure I1B, the linked sequence is formed around a band or strap 33 that provides the bight for making the cow hitch knot. Engagement of the last loop *1 7L is not illustrated, but it will be appreciated that any of the retaining devices and retaining members described above in respect of Figures 4 to 9 may be applied.

The cow hitch knot as illustrated in Figure 11 A is formed by a sequence of steps as illustrated in Figures 1 1C and LID.

Referring to Figure 1 1C, the first step in attaching the safety line terminator 1 to the frontal strap 31 with a cow hitch knot is provided by passing the band or bight 33 of the safety line terminator I up behind the frontal strap 31 such that the frontal strap 31 is to the exterior of the band or bight 33.

The next stage in attaching the safety line terminator I to the frontal strap 31 with a cow hitch knot, as illustrated in Figure 1 ID, involves bringing the free end of the safety line terminator 1 up in front of the exterior of the frontal strap 31 and threading the free end through the band or bight 33. By pulling on the free end of the safety line terminator 1 the cow hitch knot 33A (see Figure 1 1A) is formed to secure the safety line terminator 1 to the frontal strap 31. The safety line terminator 1 will remain attached to the frontal strap 31, until the cow hitch knot 33A or the linked sequence of loops is physically released.

The safety line terminator 1 or safety line can be physically released from the frontal strap 31 by reversing the steps described above; namely, passing the free end of the safety line terminator 1 back through the band or bight 33 such that the end including the band or bight 33 is released and can be removed from behind the frontal strap 31. Alternatively, the safety line terminator I can be removed by releasing the last loop 7L in the linked sequence and sequentially disengaging each of the loops in the sequence until the anchor loop 5 is free and is removable from the band or bight 33. The anchor loop 5 passes through the band or bight 33 to release the safety line terminator 1 from the frontal strap 31. The band or bight 33 remains attached to the frontal strap 31 until it is released.

Each of the embodiments described above and as illustrated in the accompanying drawings have been referred to predominantly as a safety line terminator because the quick release system provided by the linked sequence of loops is required close to the end of a safety line; preferably the end of the line attached to the crew member. The linked sequence of loops can be provided on the end of the safety line that is attachable to the crew member or to the end of the safety line that is *.

attachable to the vessel or to both ends of the safety line. It is therefore considered that the safety line terminator as described above could be attached to an end or both ends of an existing safety line that comprises for example hook attachments on both ends.

In this case both ends of the safety line terminator may both be provided by an anchor loop formed from the material of the base member. Alternatively, one or both ends of the safety line terminator may include, for example, a D-ring or a hook attachment.

Instead of attaching a safety line terminator to a safety line, the safety line terminator may be formed as an integral part of the safety line; preferably, at the end that attaches to the crew member. The safety line terminator may be formed as an integral part of the safety line at the end of the safety line that is attachable to the crew member or to the end of the safety line that is attachable to the vessel or to both ends of the safety line. Therefore, the above description relates to safety line terminators for attachment to safety lines and to safety lines that include a safety line terminator as an integral part.

The safety line terminator or a safety line including a safety line terminator as described above requires physical release of the last loop from the retaining member, the release of the last loop leads to disengaging the remaining loops. Each loop in the linked sequence facilitates a reduction of load by approximately half that experienced by the preceding ioop in the series. Therefore, the linked sequence of ioops is configured in a manner such that the physical release of the linked sequence requires a minimum amount of effort and knowledge by the user to release the last loop, the release of which allows the other loops in the linked sequence to disengage. *0

Claims

I. A safety line terminator comprising a base member having an anchor loop at one end, a series of flexible loops extending from the base member, a first ioop in the series being insertable through the anchor loop and the remaining loops each being insertable through a preceding loop to forni a linked sóquencè; and a retaining device releasably engageable with a last loop in the series to secure the linked sequence, wherein release of the last loop from the retaining device allows each loop to disengage from the preceding loop until the first loop disengages from the anchor loop.
2. A safety line terminator according to Claim 1, wherein the retaining device comprises a retaining member secured to the base member and a pin; the retaining member comprises two spaced apart hollow sections.
3. A safety line terminator according to Claim 2, wherein the pin is insertable through the hollow sections and through the last loop to secure the linked sequence.
4. A safety line terminator according to Claim 2 or 3, wherein the retaining member is provided by a substantially U-shaped shackle that is attached to the base member, wherein each leg of the substantially U-shaped shackle includes a hollow section.
5. A safety line terminator according to Claim 2 or 3, wherein the retaining member comprises a slot which slidably receives the base member to attach the retaining member to the base member, the slot being perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the base member; a recess in an upper part of the retaining member for receiving the last loop in the series and hollow section are provided on each of two side walls that are parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base member.
6. A safety line terminator according to Claim 2 or 3, wherein the retaining member comprises two bushes attached to the base member, the bushes being coaxially arranged and spaced apart and each bush comprising a hollow section that is arranged perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the base member.
7. A safety line terminator according to Claim 6, wherein each bush is embedded into the base member and an. upper part of the base member comprises a slot coincident with the spacing between the bushes such that the last loop of the linked sequence is receivable in the slot and the spacing between the two bushes.
8. A safety line terminator according to any one of Claims 2 to 7, wherein the pin comprises a stem and an enlarged head.
9. A safety line terminator according to any one of Claims 2 to 8, wherein the pin comprises a releasable clamp member for securing the pin when inserted through the hollow sections.
10. A safety line terminator according to Claim 9, wherein the releasable clamp is pivotally attached to a head of the pin and is rotatable relative to the head of the pin to lock the pin and secure the last ioop in the linked sequence.
11. A safety line terminator according to Claim 2, wherein the retaining member is provided by a portion of folded material secured to the backing member, wherein coincident with the fold there are provided two ioops providing the two hollow sections that are spaced apart by a recess in the portion of material.
12. A safety line terminator according to Claim 2 or Claim 11, wherein the pin is rotatably received on a shaft that is inserted through the hollow sections and wherein the pin is insertable through the last loop in the linked sequence and is rotatable to a position in which the last loop is secured.
13. A safety line tenninator according to Claim 12, further comprising a cap engageable with the pin.
14. A safety line terminator according to Claim 13, wherein the cap is configured to slide along the backing member for engagement with and disengagement from the pin.
15. A safety line terminator according to Claims 12, 13 or 14, wherein the shaft comprises stops on each end to retain the shaft in the retaining member.
16. A safety line terminator according to Claim 1, wherein the retaining device is provided by a band attached to the base member, the band being insertable through the last loop of the linked sequence.
17. A safety line tenninator according to Claim 16, wherein the band comprises hook and loop fasteners to secure the last loop.
18. A safety line terminator according to Claim 16, wherein the band comprises two ends that are tied together around the last loop to secure the last loop.
19. A safety line terminator according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a sleeve arranged to cover at least the last ioop and the retaining device such that release of the last loop is prevented and the sleeve also being arranged to expose at least the last loop and retaining device such that the last loop can be released from the retaining device and disengagement of the remaining loops is enabled.
20. A safety line terminator according to Claim 19, wherein the sleeve is slidably received on the base member.
21. A safety line terminator according to Claim 19, wherein the sleeve is attached to the base member and is at least partially removable from the base member to expose at least the last loop and the retaining device.
22. A safety line terminator according to Claim 19 or 20 when dependent on Claims 13 or 14, wherein the sleeve is configured to engage with the cap.
23. A safety line terminator according to Claim 22, wherein the sleeve includes an opening that coincides with the cap when the sleeve is in the secured position.
24. A safety line terminator according to any one of Claims 1 to 23, wherein the series of loops comprises discrete loops individually attachable to the base member.
25. A safety line terminator according to any one of Claims I to 23, wherein the series of loops are formed from folding a single piece of flexible material.
26. A safety line terminator according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the series of loops are formed of textile or rope.
27. A safety line terminator according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base member comprises two sections joined together with part of each loop sandwiched therebetween.
28. A safety line terminator according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the anchor loop is an integral part of the base member.
29. A safety line terminator according to any one of the preceding claims comprising a connector at one end operable to connect to a crew member or a vessel.
30. A safety line terminator according to any one of the preceding claims comprising a connector at one end operable to connect to a safety line.
31. A safety line comprising a safety line terminator according to any one of the preceding claims.
32. A safety line terminator as substantially hereinbefore described and with reference to the accompanying drawings.
33. A safety line as spbstantially hereinbefore described and with reference to the accompanying drawings.