Foldable Corner Protector Panels for Multi-Angle Impact Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing corner protection systems for concrete structures, such as pilasters, walls, and columns, are inadequate in accommodating various corner angles and do not effectively protect shopping carts from collisions, leading to damage and wear.
Innovation Solution
A modular corner protector system with foldable panels and rail sliders that conform to different corner angles, featuring magnetic and mechanical mounting options, and elastomeric materials for impact resistance, along with shopping cart bumpers that glide along the panels to deflect impact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing corner protection systems are used, then concrete corners are provided with basic protection, but they are inadequate in accommodating various corner angles and do not effectively protect shopping carts from collisions
Solution Approach 1:
The corner protection system is divided into multiple panels (edge panel, right panel, left panel) that can be independently positioned and adjusted. Each panel can be folded to different angles, allowing the system to accommodate various corner angles (right angle, 60°, 30°, etc.) while maintaining effective collision protection through the segmented structure.
2Strength
If rigid corner protectors are used, then structural strength is provided, but they cannot absorb impact energy and protect shopping carts effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The corner protection system incorporates cushioning elements that are pre-positioned to absorb impact energy before it reaches the concrete corner or shopping cart. The elastomeric material and foldable panel design allow the system to deform elastically during collision, dissipating kinetic energy and reducing damage to both the corner structure and shopping carts.
3Reliability
If fixed corner protectors are installed, then permanent protection is achieved, but installation and replacement of worn components is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The corner protection system employs foldable panels with hinges that can be dynamically adjusted between different angular positions. This dynamic design allows the panels to be easily folded open for installation and removal, and folded closed during operation for protection. The magnetic mounting mechanism also enables easy attachment and detachment of panels without permanent fastening, facilitating maintenance and replacement of worn components.
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 provides comprehensive protection for concrete corners and shopping carts by absorbing and deflecting impacts, preventing damage and wear, while allowing for easy installation and modular replacement of worn components.
Implementation Method 1
elastomeric materials for impact resistance
Implementation Method 2
magnetic and mechanical mounting options
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is a corner protector system that can be installed to a concrete pilaster, wall, post, or column. The corner protector system can be applied to a variety of different types of corners such as right angle corners, 60° corners, or 30° corners. The corner protection system has an edge panel. The edge panel is configured to conform to a corner and configured to cover a corner edge. A right panel connects to the edge panel and extends to the right of the edge panel. The left panel connects to the edge panel and extends to the left of the left panel. The edge panel folds between a flat configuration and a right angle folded configuration. The right panel has a right panel overlap that overlaps the edge panel. The left panel has a left panel overlap that overlaps the edge panel.