Collapsible Barrier Pivot Structure for Flexible Passage Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing barriers fail to temporarily block vehicle passage while allowing pedestrian passage, or vice versa, without requiring complete removal from the site.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible barrier system comprising multiple collapsible elements that can pivot between upright and horizontal states, allowing vehicle passage in the horizontal state and blocking vehicles in the upright state, with optional features like hinges, connecting elements, and a cover for stability and ease of transition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed barrier is used to block vehicle passage, then vehicle blocking capability is improved, but the ability to allow passage when needed deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier element is designed to pivot between an upright position (blocking vehicles) and a horizontal position (allowing passage). This dynamic transformation allows the same structure to serve dual functions: reliably blocking vehicles when upright and permitting passage when lowered, directly resolving the contradiction between fixed blocking capability and adaptive passage control
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier is divided into multiple independent collapsible elements that can be individually controlled. Each element can pivot independently between upright and horizontal states, allowing selective blocking of different lanes or passages while maintaining overall system reliability for vehicle blocking when needed
2Adaptability or versatility
If a portable barrier is used to allow temporary blocking, then passage control flexibility is improved, but stability under impact deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier transitions from a static portable structure to a dynamic system that can adjust its configuration. When blocking is required, elements pivot to upright positions creating a stable, impact-resistant barrier. When passage is needed, elements lower to horizontal positions, maintaining portability and flexibility while providing strength only when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the characteristics of fixed barriers (strength and stability when blocking) with portable barriers (flexibility and ease of deployment). The pivoting mechanism allows a single portable structure to achieve the stability of fixed barriers during blocking operations while retaining the adaptability of portable systems
3Reliability
If a barrier is designed to block vehicles completely, then vehicle blocking capability is improved, but the ability to allow pedestrian passage deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier can dynamically adjust its height by pivoting elements between upright and horizontal positions. For pedestrian passage, the barrier can be lowered to a horizontal state that allows easy walking through while still maintaining structural integrity for vehicle blocking when raised to upright position
Solution Approach 2:
Different sections of the barrier can be configured with different properties. The barrier elements can be designed with dimensions and spacing that when in upright position block vehicles completely, but when lowered to horizontal position create adequate clearance for pedestrian passage, providing localized quality control for different user needs
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
Enables temporary blocking or allowing passage based on vehicle or pedestrian traffic needs, maintaining stability under impact, and facilitating easy conversion between states without complete removal.
Implementation Method 1
the bottom edge is configured to pivot so as to allow the collapsible element to move between an upright state and a horizontal state
Data Source
AI summary
A collapsible barrier is provided that comprises multiple collapsible elements, wherein each one of the collapsible elements has a bottom edge, a first side edge, and a second side edge, wherein the bottom edge is configured to pivot so as to allow the collapsible element to move between an upright state and a horizontal state, and wherein the collapsible elements are adjacently arranged so that the collapsible barrier is either in an upright state when the multiple elements are in an upright state, or in a horizontal state when the multiple collapsible elements are in a horizontal state.