Bridge Overhang Bracket Translatable Connection Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bridge overhang brackets lack efficient adjustment mechanisms and storage/shipping configurations, leading to difficulties in precise placement and compact storage, which affects their usability and efficiency in bridge construction.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a connection element with translatable plates and pivot pins allows for adjustable longitudinal positioning of the top, diagonal, and side members, enabling precise placement without disassembly, and a compact storage/shipping configuration using connection tabs and a collapsible rack system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional fixed connection methods are used for bridge overhang brackets, then structural stability is maintained, but adjustment precision and placement flexibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connection element incorporates translatable plates that can move along the longitudinal axis of the top member, allowing the bracket to be adjusted to different positions. This dynamic adjustment mechanism enables precise placement while maintaining structural stability when locked into position.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection element is divided into separate components including the translatable plate, pivot pins, and connection tabs. This segmentation allows for easy adjustment by translating the plate to different positions and securing with pivot pins, improving placement precision without requiring complex integrated mechanisms.
2Productivity
If bridge overhang brackets are designed for easy adjustment, then installation efficiency is improved, but storage and shipping compactness are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The diagonal member is designed with connection tabs that allow it to nest within or alongside other bracket components during storage and shipping. This nesting capability reduces the overall storage volume while maintaining the ability to quickly assemble and adjust the bracket during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection element is pre-configured with multiple pivot pin locations and translatable plate positions, allowing workers to make adjustments by simply selecting and securing the desired position rather than performing complex assembly operations. This preliminary configuration maintains installation efficiency while enabling compact storage.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adjustment points are provided on the bracket, then placement flexibility is improved, but the number of components and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The translatable plate serves multiple functions: it provides adjustment along the longitudinal axis, acts as a mounting surface for pivot pins, and enables positioning at multiple locations. This multi-functionality achieves placement flexibility without requiring separate components for each adjustment function.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection element merges the adjustment mechanism, connection points, and securing features into a single integrated component. The translatable plate combines multiple adjustment points and connection capabilities, reducing the total number of separate components while maintaining placement flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A bridge overhang bracket assembly includes a top member having an upper surface. The top member and a diagonal member are pivotally attached proximate to respective distal and upper ends thereof. The diagonal member and a side member are pivotally attached proximate to respective lower and bottom ends thereof. A connection element is mounted to the top member and is pivotally attached to a top end of the side member. The connection element is translatable along the top member to adjust a longitudinal position of the connection element relative to the top member. The connection element does not extend above the upper surface of the top member.