DP Seals help Limpet Technology defy gravity

ERJ staff report (DRR)

Poole, UK -- A nitrile-rubber diaphragm lies at the heart of a novel system for protecting people working at heights, targetted at those working in the wind-energy sector but offering protection to anyone working at height.

Designed by Limpet Technology Ltd, based in Edinburgh, the system clips to the normal safety harness of the person and, in the event of the person losing control, it prevents them falling, says Limpet. The device also offers four other key benefits: Intelligent climb assist (ICA), Rapid remote rescue, as well as Clip & go evacuation and Precise work positioning.

The control unit relies on a "smart diaphragm" developed by DP Seals, Poole-based supplier of precision custom rubber seals and mouldings. This provides a strong seal between a roller shaft and the chassis side wall whilst ensuring minimal resistance to shaft movement, says DP Seals in a note sent out 5 Nov.

Current safety systems for working at height are split into many different product types such as access, fall arrest and work positioning systems, Limpet explains, claiming that its unit, designated The Limpet, is the world's first multi-functional height-safety system.

"We were particularly impressed with DP Seals' responsiveness, extensive materials knowledge, engineering expertise, and their competitive pricing," notes Stuart Robertson, at Limpet Technology. "They also identified opportunities to simplify our design, making it easier to manufacture without compromising performance," he added.

"DP Seals suggested the double convolution of the original diaphragm design could be reduced to a single without affecting performance, and suggested further simplifications at the prototyping stage," the Limpet specialist said. "The end result was a 40-mm nitrile-60 smart diaphragm that has met all expectations during certification, in-house testing and in the wind energy sector - where The Limpet is set to revolutionise height safety," he concluded.

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www.limpettechnology.com