Collapsible Marker With Spring-Loaded Body For Rapid Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hazard markers lack a mechanism for easy deployment and collapse, which affects their visibility and portability, especially in dynamic environments such as accident scenes or construction sites.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible marker system comprising a spring-loaded body with a base and cap, where the spring element applies an extension force to maintain visibility and facilitate easy collapse and deployment, with secure coupling elements to maintain the marker in a compact state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a traditional fixed marker is used, then visibility is maintained, but portability and ease of storage are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The marker body is designed to be collapsible rather than fixed, allowing it to transition between an extended visible state and a compressed portable state. The flexible or segmented body structure enables dynamic size change while maintaining visibility when deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The marker components are designed to nest within each other when collapsed, with the body collapsing into a compact form that fits within or alongside the base, creating a space-efficient portable configuration
2Ease of operation
If a collapsible mechanism is added, then portability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The marker is divided into distinct functional segments (base, body, cap) that can independently collapse or be collapsed, with each segment having a simplified structure that contributes to the overall collapsibility without requiring complex mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element provides automatic extension force that self-erects the marker body when deployed, eliminating the need for manual assembly or complex actuation mechanisms while maintaining the collapsible functionality
3Ease of operation
If a spring element is used for self-erecting, then ease of deployment is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element parameters (coil diameter, wire thickness, number of turns) are optimized to provide sufficient extension force for self-erection while maintaining compatibility with standard manufacturing processes and materials, balancing performance with manufacturability
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 system enhances visibility with high-contrast materials and reflective elements, while providing improved portability and ease of use through a self-erecting mechanism, allowing for quick deployment and efficient storage.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element coupled to the body to apply an extension force. The spring element having a helical geometry
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus including a collapsible body, a base, and a cap. The body including a spring element coupled to the body to apply an extension force. The spring element having a helical geometry. The collapsible body has a high visibility characteristic. The base is coupled to a first end of the body and has a shape to secure the body and the spring element relative to the base and to receive the body in a collapsed state. The base includes a base coupling element to secure the body in the collapsed state. The cap is coupled to a second end of the body opposite the first end, the cap to, at least partially, close the second end of the body.