Connecting Device for Barrier Sections

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing connecting devices for temporary barriers require full withdrawal and reinsertion of a U-shaped pin to switch between fixed and pivotable connections, making it cumbersome to adjust the relationship between adjacent barrier sections.

Innovation Solution

A connecting device with an elongate member and orthogonally extending engaging elements that allow for partial lifting and twisting to switch between fixed and pivotable connections without full removal, enabling easier adjustment between in-line and angled relationships.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a U-shaped pin is fully withdrawn to switch between fixed and pivotable connections, then the connection type can be changed, but the operation becomes cumbersome and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection type switchingVSAvoidconnector removal and reinsertion

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connecting device enables dynamic switching between fixed and pivotable connection states without complete disassembly. The engaging elements can be partially lifted and twisted to transition between connection modes, making the system adaptable while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of requiring full withdrawal of the U-shaped pin, the invention allows partial lifting of the engaging elements off the elongate member. This partial action is sufficient to switch connection types, reducing the operational effort required while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

2Reliability

If the engaging element extends a full distance Y equal to length X of the EM, then the connection is secure, but the switching operation becomes more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection securityVSAvoidswitching between connection types

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The engaging element has different extension lengths at different locations. The portion that needs to extend fully for secure connection does so, while other portions extend only partially to facilitate easier switching. This local differentiation of extension lengths resolves the contradiction between security and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The engaging element is divided into multiple portions with different extension lengths. This segmentation allows different parts of the same element to serve different functions: one portion provides secure engagement while another portion enables easy switching operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS10190274B2Connecting devices

Publication Date: 2019.01.29 LINDSAY TRANSPORTATION SOLUTIONS INC

AI summary

A connecting device is provided, including an elongate member (EM) having two or more engaging elements which are spaced along the length of the EM; and at least one engaging element which orthogonally extends out from the EM and which has a portion which also extends, in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the EM, a distance Y, wherein distance Y extends substantially 15-20% of the length of the EM.