Bridge Support Bracket Placement Device for Single-Worker Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The current process of securing bridge overhang support brackets to I-beams is labor-intensive, dangerous, and often requires closing traffic lanes or diverting watercraft, as it typically necessitates two workers to lift the brackets into place, which is inefficient and inconvenient, especially when bridges are constructed over active roadways or waterways.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a support frame, a hook for securing the frame to the beam, a clamp to grasp and hold the bracket, and a pivot axle to pivotally connect the clamp to the support frame, allowing a single worker to position and secure the support brackets efficiently, reducing the need for multiple workers and minimizing disruptions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two workers are used to lift support brackets into place using a bucket truck, then the brackets can be securely positioned, but traffic lanes must be closed and the process becomes expensive and inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The support bracket placement device enables a single worker to independently position and secure brackets without requiring external lifting equipment or traffic lane closures. The device attaches directly to the I-beam and provides self-contained bracket placement capability, eliminating the need for bucket trucks and coordinated multi-worker operations.
2Reliability
If two workers are used to support the bracket on the side of the I-beam, then the bracket can be positioned, but the work becomes strenuous and dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The support bracket placement device acts as an intermediary mechanical system between the worker and the support bracket. It provides mechanical advantage through its lever arm and pivot mechanisms, reducing the physical effort required by the worker while maintaining secure bracket positioning capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If bridge construction is performed over water, then the bridge can be built, but watercraft must be used to support the bracket raising mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The device attaches directly to the I-beam structure itself, making the I-beam the support mechanism rather than requiring external watercraft. The hook engages with the I-beam flange, and the entire bracket placement system is self-supported, eliminating the need for watercraft to provide lifting or positioning support.
4Ease of manufacture
If traditional methods are used to attach wood studs to support brackets, then the wooden deck can be constructed, but workers must crawl out onto the brackets which is precarious and dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The device extends the worker's working position from the safety of the I-beam top (horizontal plane) out to the bracket location (vertical/distant plane) through its articulated arm and clamp mechanisms. This dimensional extension allows the worker to remain in a safe, stable position while performing fastening operations at the bracket location.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for assisting to secure a bridge support bracket to a beam, the device comprising: a support frame, a hook to secure the support frame to the beam, a clamp to grasp and hold the bracket, and a pivot axle to pivotally connect the clamp to the support frame. When attaching at least two spaced apart such devices to the beam, then clamping a support bracket in each of the at least two spaced apart devices, both support brackets can be pivoted to a position where wood boards attached to the top of the support brackets are held in a not horizontal position. By then placing a wood stud in a position where it spans the two support brackets and attaching the wood stud to the respective bracket wood boards, a workman can then further pivot the support brackets to where the wood boards extend horizontally away from the beam.