Barrier Connector System for Independent Rail Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing impact barrier systems require disassembly of the entire structure to replace damaged sections, as the interlocking design between posts and rails necessitates the rail to fit within the post, making repairs and replacements cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A coupling system where the rail and post are connected via a connector that can be moved independently of the post, allowing for disassembly and replacement without relocating the posts, and incorporating energy absorption features to mitigate impact forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the rail fits within the post through an interlocking arrangement, then the connection strength between post and rail is improved, but the ease of repair deteriorates because the entire barrier must be disassembled to replace damaged sections
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional parts: a first part that engages with the post and a second part that engages with the rail. This segmentation allows the rail to be disconnected and replaced independently by removing only the connector, without needing to disassemble the entire barrier structure or move the posts.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is extracted as a separate, removable component from the post-rail assembly. By making the connector detachable rather than permanent, the system allows for easy removal and replacement of damaged rails or posts while maintaining the structural integrity of the remaining barrier sections.
2Strength
If the post is made more than 20% bigger than the rail to achieve desired strength, then the connection strength is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for precise interlocking dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The connector serves as an intermediary component that mediates the connection between the post and rail. Instead of requiring the post and rail to directly interlock with complex dimensional relationships, the connector provides a standardized interface that simplifies the geometry requirements while maintaining connection strength.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the connector is fixed in position, then the structural stability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates because the connector cannot be moved to withdraw the rail
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing it to be moved along the post between different engagement positions. The connector can be positioned to engage with either the post or the rail, enabling flexible disassembly and assembly operations while maintaining structural stability when engaged.
Data Source
AI summary
A barrier having first and second spaced posts interconnected by a rail, wherein the rail and posts are not inserted within one another. In the exemplary embodiments, the parts are hollow in at least the region of the intended interconnection. Each post is connected to the rail by a coupling. Each coupling includes a connector that extends inside the hollow region of the post and rail. The post includes an aperture wherein when assembled the connector extends through the aperture. The connecter includes an abutment that abuts an inside of the post to prevent movement of the connector through the aperture. The connector is moveable further into one of the hollow sections of the post or rail to withdraw the connector from the other of the post or rail. This allows the rail to be disconnected from the post without increasing the distance between the two spaced posts.