Artificial High Directionals Types (AHDs) play a critical role in technical rescue and rigging scenarios, offering versatile solutions for elevated anchors and mechanical advantage systems. Whether in mountain rescue, industrial settings, or search and rescue (SAR) operations, understanding the types and proper use of AHDs can significantly enhance the efficiency and safety of operations. Let’s dive into the four primary types of AHDs: Tripods, Bipods, Monopods (Gin Poles), and Specialized Systems.

1. Tripods: The Stable Workhorse

Tripods are widely regarded as the most stable and straightforward AHD configuration. With three legs, the design provides excellent balance and support, making it ideal for high-stress environments.

• Key Considerations:
  • Ensure the resultant force remains centered within the tripod’s footprint for maximum stability.
  • Extend the back leg when positioning near an edge to allow technicians room to operate while maintaining stability.
  • Consult the Vortex Technical Notice for detailed guidelines on proper setup.

Tripods are commonly used in edge-based rescues where stability is paramount, and they require minimal guying compared to other configurations. This simplicity makes them the go-to choice for many rescue teams.

2. Bipods: Versatile but Challenging

Bipods offer a flexible AHD setup but come with inherent instability. Proper guying is essential to ensure safe and efficient operation.

• Two Configurations:
  1. Standard A-Frame: Often used for vertical lifts or edge transitions.
  2. Sideways A-Frame: Ideal for directional pulls where lateral stability is required.

Experts like Pat Rhodes and Richard Delaney cover bipod systems extensively in their courses available at the Rigging Lab Academy. Bipods excel in situations where tripods are too large or unwieldy but require meticulous attention to setup and guying.

3. Monopods (Gin Poles): The Future of High Directionals

Monopods, or gin poles, are the most challenging to stabilize but offer unmatched flexibility and potential. Their freestanding design, often supported by a quad-guy or tri-guy system, requires precise placement of the resultant force to prevent collapse.

• Key Features:
  • High mobility and adaptability in tight or complex environments.
  • Perfect for lightweight rescue teams needing compact and efficient setups.
  • Increasingly recognized as the future of high directional systems for mountain rescue and SAR operations.

Mastering monopods requires a deep understanding of force vectors and guying techniques, but their versatility and minimal equipment requirements make them invaluable once the learning curve is overcome.

4. Specialized Systems: Complex but Limited in Use

Specialized AHD configurations often combine elements of bipods and monopods to create hybrid systems tailored for specific scenarios. These setups are typically used in advanced rescue operations where unique challenges require innovative solutions.

• Considerations:
  • Specialized systems represent less than 5% of AHD applications but are critical for unique or extreme scenarios.
  • Focus on mastering standard AHD systems first, as they cover 95% of operational needs.

The Rigging Lab Academy offers courses and resources on specialized systems, such as advanced elevated anchors, to help teams expand their capabilities without overcomplicating their setups.

The Importance of Training and Mastery

Regardless of the AHD type, proper training is essential to maximize safety and efficiency. Rescue teams should prioritize:

• Understanding resultant force placement to prevent system failure.
• Practicing guying techniques to stabilize bipods and monopods.
• Using tools like the Arizona Vortex to experiment with various configurations in controlled environments.

As the field evolves, innovations like monopods are expected to become the standard for many operations. However, mastering the basics—tripods, bipods, and simple monopod setups—remains the foundation of effective rigging.

Resources for Further Learning

For more insights and training materials, explore these articles and courses:

• Optimizing Rescue Operations with AHD Systems
• Shared A-Frame and Monopod Trackline Systems
• Litter Hauling with Twin Tension Systems
• Understanding Dynamic Directionals in Rope Systems

Final Thoughts

Artificial High Directionals are indispensable tools in technical rescue and rigging. From the stability of tripods to the future potential of monopods, each type offers unique advantages and challenges. By understanding the principles behind these systems and investing in proper training, rescue teams can enhance their capabilities and confidently tackle complex scenarios. Ready to elevate your skills? Dive deeper into AHD systems with Rigging Lab Academy.

Peace on your days

Lance