Arachnipod

What is the Arachnipod?

The Arachnipod is an innovative design which captures the multi-functional capabilities. Simplicity and robust engineering provide the world’s most versatile modular total edge managements system (TEMS). The Arachnipod can easily be adjusted in to multiple configurations, providing users with a safe, cost effective total edge management solution.

Arachnipod components can be added or removed as required, so that the system compliments the existing structural or natural features.

The unique design of the patented modular head means that the Arachnipod can be constructed in to many different configurations, including Gin Pole, Hand Rail Recovery, A-Frame, Transverse A-Frame, Lazy Leg A-Frame, Tripod, Quadpod and the awesome Bridge System.

For very heavy loads, an infinite number of additional legs can be fitted to the system to increase the Safe Working Load (SWL).

The Arachnipod has been drop test rated for a 280kg rescue load. The Arachnipod head has been tested and is capable of holding a high-directional load as well as a belay system. We advocate that all lowering and hauling systems should be backed up by a belay or secondary system.

How it Works

The Arachnipod in its basic form, is a Tripod. It consists of three telescoping legs, each pivotally connected to an Anodised head. The Head is produced from Aluminium extrusion, with cutouts down each side. These cutouts allow two or more heads to connect together, with the aid of a Qik-link pin, similar to a hinge. This joint system allows for the quick and simple addition or removal of legs and/or bridge beam, to create different configurations.

Photo Gallery

Click on the photos to enlarge:

Gin Pole (Monopole) Handrail Recovery Pole - shares the load between the structural balustrade and the Arachnipod leg Conventional A-Frame Sideways A-Frame, using Pulley Head Lazy Leg A-Frame - Lazy Leg offers additional stability and allows the frame to be tipped forward for additional edge clearance Tripod (Standard or as High Directional) Quadpod - offers a wider footprint and additional stability, compared with Tripod Bridge System - offers a large footprint for spanning large voids; built-in beam trolley is ideal for managing rescue loads/stretcher recovery Accessory Kit (stored) Tripod (stored) TEMS Rescue, using Lazy Leg A-Frame ISC UB171 Recovery Block on Arachnipod Leg

Configurations

Gin Pole/Monopole

The Gin pole (or Monopole) is ideal for use in confined spaces, where there is not enough space to assemble a larger configuration. The Lazy Leg converts in to a Gin Pole, by attaching the Gin head to the leg assembly. The Gin Pole can also be used as a separate component of a complex high directional system, or as an additional attachment point in a high-line system.

Handrail Recovery Monopole

The Handrail Recovery Monopole can be used to raise a person or rescue stretcher over an edge, by using a handrail as an artificial high directional. Handrails may not be designed to take the load and the handrail can add considerable friction to the haul. By using an Arachnipod pulley leg, a simple system can be set up to retrieve a person or stretcher over an edge and through the lower handrail gap. This effectively transfers load through the leg, sharing the load between the handrail and the leg. It is essential to assess the load bearing capacity of the handrail before using this method.

A-Frame

A conventional or offset A-Frame can be easily constructed by removing one of the Tripod legs. The A-Frame can be used as a high directional for high lines, in confined spaces. An A-frame rigging plate should be added to provide additional tie-off points, in order to stabilise the frame.

Sideways A-Frame, Using Pulley Head

This configuration is ideal for situations which require a high-directional, protruding beyond an edge, such as cliffs, high-rise buildings and bridges. Using one standard and one pulley head leg introduces a built in high-directional pulley for ease of use during rescue operations.

A-Frame with Lazy Leg and Reverse Head

By using the Lazy Leg, Quadplate and the Reverse Head, an A-Frame can be braced against a solid object. The Lazy Leg has a 16mm (5/8”) Stainless Steel D Shackle to attach live loads, which position the load correctly in the centre of the legs. The lazy leg can also act as a compression member during use.

Tripod

The Tripod is a self-supporting device, providing quick and easy access to confined space entry points, such as manholes and voids. The system can also be used as a high-directional frame. A unique feature of the Arachnipod is that it ‘flat packs’ for convenient storage, yet is quick and easy to set up. The system can be used with a winch retrieval system, a mechanical advantage system – or both!

Tripod as High-Directional System

The Tripod system can also be used as a high-directional frame to support remote mechanical advantage hauling systems. Tripod heads should be guyed with their D shackles to remote anchor points for additional stabilisation.

Quadpod System

The Quadpod allows great versatility and stability than the Tripod system, when used around/over larger entry areas of confined spaces. These include small trenched areas, convex surfaces and larger circular openings, where a conventional tripod will not facilitate the application.

Bridge System

The Bridge system is a feature which is unique to the Arachnipod. The bridge is used for spanning larger openings or voids, trenches, mines and lift shafts. The bridge beam come complete with a trolley rail, trolley and trolley guide rope. The bridge beam is fitted with heads at either end, allowing the two legs to be fitted at each end. A remote mechanical advantage system, such as the R-AL two-way locking Rescue System, can be attached to directly to the trolley.

Kits & Accessories

The modular design of the Arachnipod offers a great deal of versatility and kit options. It is also possible to retro-fit parts to upgrade your existing kit. Standard Arachnipod kits can be viewed on page 5 of the Arachnipod Brochure and we will be pleased to provide bespoke kit quotations to suit specific needs/applications.