Excavation Rib Connection via Translatory Locking Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for connecting ribs in excavation support structures are time-consuming, difficult to execute correctly, and prone to instability due to manual operation and reliance on chains that can become disconnected.

Innovation Solution

A rib connection system featuring an elongated, cylindrical connection element with a translatory motion mechanism, including an insertion portion and a locking portion, allows for secure and rapid connection between adjacent ribs by moving the rib parallel to the ground, eliminating the need for manual intervention and enhancing stability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If chains are used to connect ribs through manual connection to rings, then the connection can be made, but the operation is time-consuming and requires substantial investment of time

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidinstallation time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The connection element is designed to automatically connect two ribs through translatory motion without manual intervention. The insertion portion automatically engages with the locking portion of the adjacent rib, eliminating the need for manual connection operations while ensuring reliable connection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual chain-and-ring connection system is replaced with a mechanical translatory motion connection system. The connection element moves linearly to automatically engage and lock with the adjacent rib, substituting manual mechanical operations with an automated mechanical mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If manual connection operations are performed for each rib, then connections can be made, but the operation is difficult and might not be performed correctly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection completenessVSAvoidconnection operation difficulty

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connection element performs the connection operation automatically through translatory motion. The insertion portion self-engages with the locking portion, eliminating the need for difficult manual operations and ensuring complete and correct connection every time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of manually manipulating chains and rings to achieve connection, the system inverts the approach by having the connection element automatically perform the connection through simple translatory motion, making the operation easier and more reliable.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Ease of manufacture

If ribs are connected with chains through manual operation, then the structure can be assembled, but the chains may become disconnected compromising stability

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveassembly simplicityVSAvoidconnection stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The chain-based connection system is replaced with a rigid connection element featuring insertion and locking portions. This mechanical substitution eliminates the disconnection risk inherent in chain systems while maintaining assembly simplicity through translatory motion.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The connection element is pre-designed with integrated insertion and locking portions that automatically engage in the correct sequence during translatory motion. This preliminary design ensures stable connection is achieved automatically, preventing disconnection before it can occur.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

4Reliability

If connection elements require manual intervention for assembly, then connections can be made, but the installation process becomes time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection securityVSAvoidinstallation efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection element automatically assembles itself through translatory motion without manual intervention. The insertion portion automatically engages with the locking portion of the adjacent rib, securing the connection while maintaining high installation efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The translatory motion connection allows for continuous and uninterrupted assembly of ribs. The connection element moves continuously from one rib to the next, maintaining productive action throughout the installation process without pauses for manual operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Data Source

PatentEP3152400B1Rib for supporting and consolidating an excavation and method for installing a structure to support and consolidate an excavation

Publication Date: 2020.12.16 OFFICINE MACCAFERRI ITAL SRL

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AI summary

A rib for supporting and consolidating an excavation comprises at least a first structural element (5A) and at least one connection element (10) for connecting the said structural element (5A) of the said rib to a corresponding connection element (10') of an adjacent rib (1'), the said connection element (10) being capable of engaging through translatory motion with the said corresponding connection element (10') of the adjacent rib.