Barrier Recovery Boom Axial Compression Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for recovering elongate barriers, such as those composed of interconnected flexible wire coils, are inefficient and hazardous due to the resilience and barbed nature of the coils, with previous solutions being complex and unsatisfactory.
Innovation Solution
A mechanized apparatus featuring a support boom, a drive mechanism with a closed-loop chain, a reciprocally movable base member, and a spring-loaded catch that engages with the coils to axially compress and draw them onto the boom, facilitated by a prime mover and control unit for controlled operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual recovery techniques are used, then the apparatus structure remains simple, but the recovery process becomes tedious and hazardous due to the resilient and barbed nature of the coils
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier recovery system uses the barrier's own resilience and the mechanical action of the base member to draw the coils onto the boom. The spring-loaded catch automatically engages with the coils, and the reciprocating motion of the base member utilizes the barrier's elastic properties to pull it along, making the system self-servicing without requiring complex external mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded catch acts as an intermediary mechanism between the base member and the barrier coils. It temporarily holds the coils during the reciprocating motion, allowing the system to overcome the resilience of the barrier material and draw it onto the boom without direct manual handling.
2Extent of automation
If existing recovery devices with looped chains are used, then mechanization is achieved, but the device becomes complex and does not work satisfactorily
Solution Approach 1:
The recovery device is segmented into distinct functional components: the support boom for positioning, the base member for reciprocating motion, the spring-loaded catch for engaging the coils, and the drive mechanism for power. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently without requiring a complex integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The base member is designed to move reciprocally between a first position (for engaging the barrier) and a second position (for drawing it onto the boom). This dynamic motion allows the system to handle the resilient barrier material effectively, alternating between engagement and drawing phases to overcome the material's elasticity.
3Productivity
If the base member moves continuously in one direction, then the barrier can be drawn onto the boom, but the spring-loaded catch cannot effectively engage with the resilient coils
Solution Approach 1:
The base member performs periodic reciprocating motion, alternating between moving to the first position (where the catch engages the barrier) and the second position (where the barrier is drawn onto the boom). This periodic action ensures reliable engagement with the resilient coils while maintaining productive recovery speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded catch is pre-positioned and biased to automatically engage with the barrier coils when the base member reaches the first position. This preliminary positioning of the catch mechanism ensures that engagement occurs reliably before the drawing phase begins, preventing missed engagements with the resilient material.
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
Enables efficient and safe mechanized recovery of elongate barriers by axially compressing and drawing coils onto a support boom, reducing the complexity and hazards associated with manual recovery.
Implementation Method 1
A biasing device such as a spring may be positioned to act between the base member and the catch and exert a biasing force on the catch which tends to move the catch to the operative position
Implementation Method 2
The drive mechanism may include a flexible drive element, such as a chain, which is in a closed loop
Implementation Method 3
The drive mechanism may include a prime mover such as an electric motor, a petrol or diesel engine, a hydraulic device or the like
Data Source
AI summary
A barrier recovery device for receiving an elongate array of coils which includes a boom and a catch which is reciprocally movable along the boom to draw successive portions of the coils, in an axially compressed stated, onto the boom. The device can be mounted to a barrier recovery vehicle.