Expandable Bridge Deck Panel With Intermeshing Egress Combs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modular stage structures face challenges in providing adequate emergency egress pathways that are clear of obstructions, particularly due to support legs and bracing that interfere with the egress path.
Innovation Solution
An expandable deck panel system with a static and moving frame configuration that allows for the creation of a gap or opening in the deck surface, featuring intermeshing combs and sliding mechanisms to minimize tripping hazards and support cantilevered extension, enabling easy assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If support legs and bracing are provided to stabilize the deck surface and increase load-carrying capability, then structural stability and strength are improved, but egress pathways become obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The deck surface is divided into modular panels that can be independently moved. The expandable deck panel includes a stationary portion and a moveable portion that can be separated to create egress pathways, allowing the structure to provide both structural support and emergency access functions
Solution Approach 2:
The deck panel incorporates a moveable portion that can dynamically change position between a closed state (providing structural support) and an open state (creating egress pathways). This dynamic reconfiguration allows the same structure to serve different functions based on operational needs
2Ease of manufacture
If modular stage structures are designed to be easily assembled and disassembled into small units, then ease of transport and storage are improved, but structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The stage structure is divided into modular panels and components that can be easily assembled and disassembled. Each panel includes standardized connection features that enable quick assembly while maintaining structural integrity when configured properly
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple structural elements are combined into integrated panels that maintain stability through their design. The expandable deck panel combines the stationary and moveable portions into a single modular unit that provides both ease of assembly and structural stability when properly configured
3Ease of operation
If the moving frame is extended to create a gap for emergency egress, then egress pathway clarity is improved, but the deck surface may develop gaps and openings that pose tripping hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The deck surface features intermeshing combs with varying gap sizes in different locations. The combs are designed to minimize gaps at critical areas while allowing sufficient opening for egress where needed, creating locally optimized safety characteristics
Solution Approach 2:
The intermeshing combs act as an intermediary element between the moving frame and the deck surface. They filter and control the gaps created by the moving frame, ensuring that only safe, controlled openings remain while blocking larger gaps that could pose tripping hazards
Data Source
AI summary
An expandable deck panel for a modular platform system includes a static frame having a receiver member and a first platform deck portion, a moving frame having a second platform deck portion, wherein the static frame is supportable above a surface by a support member engaged in the receiver member. The moving frame may be moved in relation to the static frame between extended and retracted configurations. The static frame is supported above a surface by a portable support engaging the receiver member. The moving frame is supported by the static frame and cantilevers therefrom when in the extended configuration leaving the space beneath the extended moving frame free of portable support members. Retracting the moving frame opens a gap in the modular platform system allowing for unobstructed emergency egress thorough the platform system.