Brace for Erecting Bollard Fence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Erecting bollard fences is a tedious and time-consuming process due to the heavy and lengthy metal tubular members that require precise positioning and securing in a trench, especially in challenging terrain like earthen foundations.
Innovation Solution
A brace system comprising a linear structure with an arch section, longitudinal sections, and a panel connector that secures the bollard panel vertically, allowing the brace to extend perpendicular to the panel with sections on either side, facilitating easier installation and stabilization, even in trenches prone to cave-ins.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If heavy steel pipe bollards are used to construct the fence, then the barrier strength and security are improved, but the ease of installation and time required for erection deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The brace is divided into multiple sections (first longitudinal section, second longitudinal section, and optional intermediate sections) that can be assembled in segments. This allows the heavy brace structure to be transported and installed in manageable pieces, then connected to form the complete support system for the bollard fence.
Solution Approach 2:
The brace acts as an intermediary element between the ground/trench and the heavy steel pipe bollards. By providing this intermediate support structure, the installation process is simplified as the brace holds the bollards in the correct position and maintains stability during backfilling, reducing the manual effort required to handle the heavy pipes.
2Strength
If heavy steel pipe bollards are used to construct the fence, then the barrier strength and security are improved, but the time required for erection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The brace structure is designed to be assembled and positioned in advance, creating a ready-made support framework before the bollards are fully installed. The arch section and longitudinal sections can be prepared and positioned to span the trench, allowing for quicker integration of the heavy bollard components and reducing overall installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The brace incorporates adjustable and movable elements, such as the adjustable length longitudinal sections and the ability to position the arch section at different locations. This dynamic adaptability allows the installation team to quickly adjust the brace configuration to match specific site conditions, reducing time spent on fitting and adjustment during the erection process.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the brace extends with longitudinal sections on both sides of the panel, then the stability and support capability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The brace design with longitudinal sections on both sides serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides support on both sides of the panel for enhanced stability, spans across the trench effectively, and offers attachment points for multiple bollards. This multi-functional design justifies the increased complexity by delivering superior performance in stability and support capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The brace structure allows for asymmetric configuration where the first and second longitudinal sections can have different lengths and positioning, optimized for each side's specific requirements. This asymmetric design enables tailored support for panels at different locations along the fence, improving overall stability while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized components.
Data Source
AI summary
A bollard panel having adjacent bollards and a gap between the adjacent bollards, a brace having a panel connector, a first longitudinal section, and a second longitudinal section, and the brace supporting the bollard panel in a vertical position relative to a ground with the brace disposed in the gap with the first longitudinal section located on a first side of the bollard panel, the second longitudinal section located on a second side of the bollard panel, and the panel connector attached to the bollard panel.