Adjustable Hurdle With Flexible Bridge And Slider Base
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Solution Overview
Problem
Novice hurdlers often trip over or step on hurdles due to their instability, as existing designs that easily tip over or bend away are not adequately addressing the need for improved safety and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable height hurdle with a rigid base and a movable slider allows for varying base lengths, combined with a flexible bridge that can change from an erect to a collapsed position, reducing interference with the hurdler's movement by bending underfoot impact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If hurdles are made rigid and stable, then structural strength is improved, but novice hurdlers still trip over or step on them causing safety issues
Solution Approach 1:
The hurdle incorporates a flexible bridge section that can dynamically change from a rigid erect position to a flexible collapsed position. This dynamic structure allows the bridge to bend and collapse when contacted by a hurdler's foot, eliminating the tripping hazard while maintaining structural integrity through the rigid base and track components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and flexibility parameters of the bridge component. The bridge transitions between a rigid state (when erect) and a flexible state (when collapsed), allowing it to adapt its mechanical properties based on operational conditions. This parameter change enables the hurdle to be both structurally stable and safe for novice hurdlers.
2Ease of manufacture
If hurdle height is fixed, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability to different skill levels and training needs is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The hurdle is divided into distinct modular components: a rigid base with a track, a movable slider, and a flexible bridge. This segmentation allows the base length to be adjusted by repositioning the slider along the track, enabling height adjustment while keeping each component relatively simple to manufacture. The modular design maintains ease of production while providing adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable base mechanism serves multiple functions: it allows height adjustment for different skill levels, provides stable support when configured, and enables compact storage when collapsed. This multi-functionality achieves adaptability without significantly complicating the manufacturing process, as the same components serve multiple purposes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If base length is made adjustable, then adaptability to different heights is improved, but device complexity increases due to slider and track mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable base uses a dynamic slider mechanism that moves along a fixed track. This dynamic design allows simple adjustment of base length without requiring complex assembly or multiple components. The slider-truck mechanism provides adaptability while maintaining relatively simple construction, as it involves basic moving parts rather than complex mechanical systems.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If bridge is made flexible to reduce tripping hazard, then safety is improved, but structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The hurdle structure is segmented into a rigid base portion and a flexible bridge portion. This segmentation isolates the flexibility to only the bridge component, allowing it to collapse safely without affecting the stability of the base. The rigid base with track and slider maintains structural stability while the flexible bridge reduces tripping hazards.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the hurdle have different mechanical properties: the base is rigid and stable, while the bridge is flexible and collapsible. This local differentiation of quality allows each component to fulfill its specific function - the base provides stable support while the bridge provides safety by collapsing underfoot contact.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The adjustable height and flexible design enhance safety by allowing the hurdle to be easily adjusted to different heights, reducing the risk of tripping and providing a stable yet collapsible structure for storage and transport.
Implementation Method 1
A flexible bridge may have a first end attached to the slider and a second end attached to the track. The bridge is movable from an erect position wherein the bridge is on a top side of the base and the hurdle generally has an isosoles trapezoid shape, to a collapsed position wherein the bridge is on a bottom side of the base.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable height hurdle may have a rigid base with a slider movable on or in a track to different base length positions. A flexible bridge may have a first end attached to the slider and a second end attached to the track. The bridge is movable from an erect position wherein the bridge is on a top side of the base and the hurdle has an isosoles trapezoid shape, to a collapsed position wherein the bridge is on a bottom side of the base. The height of the hurdle is adjusted by changing the length of the base.