Cantilever Barrier Transfer Device for One-Side Lane Closure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing barrier transfer devices are costly, complex, and pose risks to operators due to their size, weight, and requirement for support on both sides of the barrier, making them difficult to deploy and store, and often expose operators to traffic hazards during lane closures and openings.
Innovation Solution
A barrier transfer device mounted on a transfer vehicle with a cantilever support arm and carriage that engages the barrier on one side, allowing for lateral movement and deployment without straddling the barrier, thus keeping the operator safe and enabling quick lane closures and openings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional barrier transfer devices are used to move positive protection devices, then the barriers can be moved, but the devices are costly, complex, and expose operators to traffic hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a barrier engagement device as an intermediary tool that allows the vehicle to move barriers without the operator being exposed to traffic. The device engages the barrier and allows the vehicle to push it laterally, creating a safe intermediary mechanism between the operator and the hazardous traffic environment
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier movement function is segmented into distinct components: the barrier engagement device with engagement members, the vehicle interface, and the lateral movement mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system
2Productivity
If heavy concrete, steel or water-filled barriers are moved using conventional methods, then the barriers can be repositioned, but the process is difficult and time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the vehicle's existing hydraulic system to power the barrier engagement device, enabling easy and quick engagement and disengagement of barriers. The hydraulic actuation provides sufficient force to handle heavy barriers while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier engagement device is designed to be automatically positioned and engaged using the vehicle's movement and the barrier's own weight, reducing the need for manual intervention and speeding up the repositioning process
3Ease of manufacture
If dedicated barrier transfer machines are used, then barriers can be moved, but the devices must be stored at crowded work sites or transported to and from the site as needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the barrier transfer function with an existing vehicle platform, merging two separate functions (vehicle operation and barrier transfer) into a single integrated system. This eliminates the need for separate dedicated transfer machines and their associated storage requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle serves multiple functions: it provides transportation, operates the barrier engagement device, and performs other construction tasks. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for specialized equipment and reduces storage space requirements at work sites
4Adaptability or versatility
If typical barrier movers are configured to move barriers a predetermined lateral distance, then the barriers can be moved, but the distance may not be optimum for a particular work-zone configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamically adjustable system where the lateral movement distance is not fixed but can be varied by the operator based on the specific work-zone requirements. The vehicle's hydraulic system and steering mechanism allow for flexible adjustment of movement parameters without complex mechanical reconfiguration
Data Source
AI summary
A method for transferring a barrier includes providing a barrier having first and second sides and a plurality of barrier modules connected end-to-end, driving a transfer vehicle along a path on the first side of the barrier, wherein the vehicle is supported entirely by a support surface on the first side of the barrier and is free of any engagement with the support surface on the second side of the barrier. The transfer vehicle includes a barrier transfer device with a support disposed above the barrier and a carriage coupled to the support. The method further includes sequentially engaging the plurality of barrier modules with the carriage, sequentially moving the plurality of barrier modules in a lateral direction with the carriage, and sequentially releasing the plurality of barrier modules from the carriage.