Boarding Handrail With UV-Disinfected Moving Grip Surface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional disinfecting devices for boarding handrails, which include a light-blocking cover and ultraviolet light emitting elements, hinder the functionality of the handrail as passengers grasp it from various directions, making it difficult to use effectively as a boarding aid.
Innovation Solution
A boarding handrail design featuring an outer pipe supported by a periphery entrance, an inner C-shaped pipe with a sheet member that can be moved and disinfected by ultraviolet light, allowing passengers to grasp the sheet member while it is being disinfected, ensuring the handrail's functionality is not compromised.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a light-blocking cover is permanently equipped over the handrail for disinfection, then disinfection effectiveness is improved, but the handrail becomes difficult to grasp and its original function is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the light-blocking cover movable rather than fixed. The cover can be retracted to allow passenger access and extended to perform disinfection, transforming a static obstacle into a dynamic component that adapts its state based on operational requirements. This resolves the contradiction by ensuring the cover does not permanently block handrail access while maintaining disinfection capability when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action by scheduling disinfection operations at specific intervals (e.g., when the vehicle is stationary or during off-peak periods). The light-blocking cover is extended periodically to disinfect the handrail surface, then retracted to restore normal handrail functionality. This time-based approach allows the system to alternate between disinfection mode and normal operation mode, satisfying both hygiene requirements and accessibility needs.
2Reliability
If the sheet member is moved continuously for disinfection, then disinfection coverage is improved, but the structural complexity of the driving device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the driving device into discrete, modular components such as separate rollers or segmented belts that move the sheet member in discrete steps or zones. This modular approach allows each component to perform a specific function (propulsion, tensioning, guidance) independently, simplifying the overall structure while achieving complete circumferential movement of the sheet member for thorough disinfection coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary mechanism (such as a roller or belt system) that mediates between the power source and the sheet member. This intermediary translates rotational motion into linear or circumferential movement of the sheet member, enabling complex sheet member displacement with a simple motor-driven roller. The intermediary reduces direct mechanical complexity by providing a smooth, reliable motion transfer mechanism.
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 design allows for effective disinfection of the boarding handrail without hindering its use, as the sheet member is moved and disinfected in the circumferential direction, ensuring passenger safety and ease of use by maintaining the handrail's functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a disinfecting device that is provided inside the inner pipe and disinfects the sheet member by irradiating the sheet member with ultraviolet light
Data Source
AI summary
A boarding handrail includes: an outer pipe which is supported by a support member provided on a periphery of an entrance of a vehicle and of which one segment is removed to form a non-annular shape; an inner pipe that has a substantially C-shaped cross-section as seen from an axial direction, with the outside diameter smaller than the inside diameter of the outer pipe, and is disposed in the one segment by being suspended across one end and the other end of the outer pipe; a sheet member that continuously covers an outer circumferential surface and an inner circumferential surface of the inner pipe and is capable of being moved in a circumferential direction of the inner pipe by a driving device provided inside the inner pipe; and a disinfecting device that is provided inside the inner pipe and disinfects the sheet member by irradiating it with ultraviolet light.