Beacon Extraction Tool Using Segmented Support and Linear Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for removing recessed signaling beacons from the ground for repair, maintenance, or replacement cause damage to the connections and paving, leading to extended traffic disruptions due to the need for large-diameter drilling or demolition, resulting in broken cables and asphalt replacement.
Innovation Solution
A tool with a support structure comprising an upper and lower element, a hinged extraction support, and linear displacement means, such as a worm or hydraulic actuator, allows for the extraction of beacons without damaging the ground or connections, enabling reuse and minimizing disruption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a drill bit or crown wheel of greater diameter is used to remove the beacon, then the beacon can be extracted, but the paving and connection cables are damaged requiring replacement and restoration
Solution Approach 1:
The extraction tool is divided into multiple components: an upper support structure, a lower support structure, and extraction elements that can be positioned around the beacon casing. This segmentation allows the tool to apply extraction forces without requiring large-diameter drilling, thus avoiding damage to the surrounding paving and cables while still enabling effective beacon removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The extraction tool acts as an intermediary device between the extraction force and the beacon casing. Rather than directly drilling or demolishing the paving, the tool introduces extraction elements that engage with the beacon casing and apply controlled extraction forces, preventing direct damage to the surrounding infrastructure.
2Productivity
If demolition is used to extract the beacon, then the beacon can be removed, but the area becomes unusable for traffic for several days due to restoration work
Solution Approach 1:
The extraction tool is designed to prepare the extraction path in advance by positioning extraction elements around the beacon casing before applying extraction forces. This preliminary positioning allows for controlled extraction without the need for extensive demolition and subsequent restoration work, significantly reducing the time the area remains unusable for traffic.
Solution Approach 2:
The extraction tool enables recovery of the beacon for reuse while minimizing damage to the surrounding paving. By extracting the beacon intact rather than demolishing it, the beacon can be recovered and reused, and the paving requires minimal or no restoration, thus reducing traffic disruption time.
3Reliability
If the beacon is firmly fixed with resin or mortar, then the beacon is securely attached to the paving, but extraction becomes difficult without causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The extraction tool employs movable and adjustable components that can adapt to the firmly fixed beacon. The extraction elements can be positioned and adjusted to engage with the beacon casing, and the support structures can move to apply extraction forces, enabling extraction of firmly fixed beacons without requiring damage to the surrounding paving.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of extracting the beacon vertically from above (which would require large-diameter drilling), the tool applies extraction forces from multiple directions around the beacon casing. This dimensional approach allows the tool to overcome the firm fixation by distributing extraction forces around the perimeter, enabling removal without damage.
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 simple and effective extraction of beacons in situ, reducing the need for extensive repairs and minimizing traffic disruption by allowing for quick removal and replacement without damaging the beacon or paving.
Implementation Method 1
linear displacement means joined in its lower end to the fixing means for fixing the upper edge of the beacon and which, in its upper end, have displacement actuation means
Implementation Method 2
linear displacement means, such as a worm or hydraulic actuator
Data Source
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AI summary
An object of the present invention is a tool for the extraction of recessed signalling beacons comprising: a support structure to the ground comprising: An upper element, a lower element, disposed facing the upper element, and whereon a central space is defined and means of joining and connection between the upper element and the lower element; it also comprises fixing means on the upper edge of the casing of a beacon, which may be screwed or by means of hooks, and linear displacement means (worm or a hydraulic actuator) joined in its lower end to the fixing means on the upper edge of the beacon and which, in its upper end, have displacement actuation means mounted on the upper element. It allows the extraction of the beacons simply and effectively.