Bridge Overhang Bracket Assembly with Pivoting Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bridge overhang bracket systems are inefficient in storage and shipping due to complex disassembly requirements and lack of compact configurations, and conventional T-bolt fasteners are cumbersome for secure attachment to side rails.
Innovation Solution
The bridge overhang bracket assembly features pivotally attached elongate members with a hanger element for adjustable positioning and a fastener assembly with a clamp member, bolt, and biasing member for secure engagement with T-bolt channels, enabling quick adjustment and compact storage, as well as a bolt with a unique head and body configuration for easy insertion and locking into T-bolt channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If bridge overhang bracket systems use conventional assembly methods with multiple discrete components, then the structure can be securely assembled, but the disassembly process becomes complex and time-consuming for storage and shipping
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple discrete components (top member, diagonal member, side member, hanger element) into an integrated bracket assembly where parts are pre-connected through pivotal attachments. This merging reduces the number of separate assembly steps and allows the entire assembly to be treated as a single unit during installation and storage, eliminating complex disassembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs pivotal attachments that allow members to rotate and fold relative to each other. The diagonal member can pivot between extended and folded positions, and the side member can pivot to collapse the entire bracket assembly into a compact configuration. This dynamic capability enables rapid transformation between deployed and storage states without complex disassembly.
2Adaptability or versatility
If bridge overhang brackets are designed with fixed configurations, then manufacturing is simpler, but adaptability to different bridge overhang dimensions and angles is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses pivotal joints at critical connection points that allow the bracket assembly to dynamically adjust to different configurations. The diagonal member's pivotal attachment to the top member enables angle adjustment, while the side member's pivotal connection allows length and position variations. These dynamic joints provide adaptability without requiring complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket assembly is divided into discrete segmented members (top member, diagonal member, side member, hanger element) that can independently move and adjust relative to each other. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for simplicity while the collective assembly achieves versatility through the coordinated movement of its segments.
3Ease of operation
If T-bolt fasteners use conventional head designs, then manufacturing is straightforward, but insertion into tight T-bolt channels and secure locking becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional fastening approach by designing the bolt head to engage the T-bolt channel in reverse orientation. Instead of the conventional head fitting over the T-bolt flange, the inverted head design allows the bolt to be inserted through the channel opening and then rotated to lock, reversing the traditional engagement sequence for easier insertion into tight spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastener assembly incorporates dynamic elements including a rotatable bolt that transitions from an insertion position to a locked position. The bolt rotates within its bore to engage the T-bolt channel, providing a dynamic locking mechanism that is simpler than conventional adjustable fasteners while maintaining secure attachment.
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 solution allows for rapid adjustment and compact storage of bridge overhang brackets without disassembly and secure attachment to T-bolt channels, enhancing efficiency in installation and storage processes.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member arranged between the clamp member and the nut to bias the bolt to the retracted position
Implementation Method 2
the top and diagonal members being pivotally attached proximate to the respective outer and upper ends thereof
Data Source
AI summary
An improved bridge overhang bracket assembly may include top, diagonal and side members. A hanger element may be mounted to the top member and pivotally attached proximate to the top end of the side member. The hanger element may be translatable along the top member for adjusting its longitudinal position, to vary the positions of the diagonal and side members quickly and easily, without disassembly, and may enable folding of the members to a shipping/storage position. A second hanger element may be mounted to the top member for attaching the assembly to a tie rod. The diagonal member may include at least one connection tab for receiving a bolt to connect the top and diagonal members together in the shipping/storage position. Also disclosed is a fastener assembly for securing a side rail to a T-bolt channel.