Flood Barrier Membrane Clamping with Discrete-State Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flood barrier connection systems are time-consuming, ergonomically challenging, and prone to seepage when connecting modules across multiple spatial planes, requiring frequent adjustments and bolt manipulations, which complicates the sealing process.
Innovation Solution
A connection system featuring discrete state locking units that allow for intuitive and fast adjustment between open, closed, and intermediate states, enabling secure fastening and membrane adjustment without disengagement, using clamping members and locking units that facilitate easy handling and sealing between membranes and rigid supports.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If screwed bolts or knobs are used to connect modules, then the connection is secure, but the installation time increases and ergonomics deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate functional components: a clamping member for securing the membrane, a locking unit with discrete states for controlled engagement, and a membrane portion. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, reducing overall installation time while maintaining connection security.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking unit incorporates discrete state movement between open and closed positions, enabling dynamic control of the clamping force. This allows operators to quickly transition between installation modes (open for insertion, closed for securing) without manual adjustment, significantly reducing installation time compared to static bolt systems.
2Reliability
If multiple bolts are manipulated for module connection, then the connection is secure, but the operational complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple fastening functions are merged into a single integrated locking unit that controls the clamping member. Instead of manipulating multiple independent bolts, the operator controls one locking unit with discrete states, simplifying the operation while maintaining secure connection through the combined action of the clamping member and locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking unit's discrete state design provides self-guiding operation, where the physical structure guides the operator through the correct sequence of operations. The unit automatically transitions between functional states (open for insertion, closed for securing), reducing the need for complex manual manipulation and training.
3Reliability
If membrane adjustment is required during installation, then the sealing efficiency improves, but the number of operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking unit's discrete state capability allows the clamping member to be dynamically adjusted during installation. The operator can transition the locking unit between open and closed states to accommodate membrane positioning and adjustment needs, then securely lock the final position. This dynamic control enables sealing optimization without requiring complete disassembly or multiple operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The membrane adjustment process is integrated into the continuous operation of the locking unit. Rather than requiring separate adjustment operations after bolting, the discrete state locking mechanism allows adjustment and securing to be performed in a continuous, streamlined sequence, maintaining installation speed while achieving proper sealing.
Data Source
AI summary
A connection system for connecting at least one membrane to a rigid support, the connection system comprising:at least one elongated clamping profile,at least one locking unit configured for attaching the at least one elongated clamping profile to the rigid support, thereby clamping a portion of the at least one membrane between the at least one elongated clamping profile and the rigid support so as to achieve a sealing between the at least one membrane and the rigid support,wherein the at least one locking unit is a discrete state locking unit movable between several predetermined locking unit states, each locking unit state corresponding to a connection system stage, the predetermined locking unit states including: an open state, a closed state and an intermediate state.