Rock Climbing Lanyard

A lanyard for rock climbers that allows for more safety from sudden falls, connecting the harness or belt of the climber to an anchor or deceleration device. As the climber falls and exerts a critical force on this lanyard, it extends in order to minimize injury from a sudden stop.

Problem

In the event of a fall, there is a large impulse on the climber as the momentum changes drastically from accelerating downward due to gravity and stopping due to the anchor, resulting in whiplash and/or other injuries.

Solution

Similar to an airbag in a car, the technology exerts an opposing force relative to the momentum change, extending the time of deceleration and reducing the chance of injury.

Benefits

Rock climbing has become increasingly popular, creating an industry opening since it commensurately increases demand for appropriate safety measures and equipment.

Applications

Primarily rock climbing, though there may be other applications in which similar safety measures are needed, particularly in outdoor sport settings.

 

Contact

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Questions about this technology including licensing availability can be directed to:

Alan Edwards, MA, JD
Manager, Technology Transfer Services
(435) 797-2328 alan.edwards@usu.edu

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USU ID C21032