Interlocking Flood Barrier Elements for Rapid Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flood barrier systems for large doorways are inefficient and time-consuming to install, requiring significant structural strength and manual effort, which can lead to incomplete sealing during flooding events, causing damage even if other openings are protected.
Innovation Solution
A flood barrier system featuring interlocking, extruded aluminum barrier elements with a resilient sealing mechanism and vertically acting clamping elements that facilitate rapid assembly and disassembly, utilizing a novel mechanical interlock and slideable clamping assemblies for quick installation and removal, with vertically extending channels for easy storage during non-flood periods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional flood barrier systems are used for large doorways, then structural strength is sufficient to resist water pressure, but installation time is excessive and efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier system is divided into multiple modular barrier elements that can be independently manufactured and quickly assembled. Each element contains integrated sealing surfaces and interlocking features, allowing the entire barrier to be constructed rapidly by connecting pre-fabricated segments rather than installing a custom-built structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Sealing surfaces and structural features are pre-formed on each barrier element during manufacturing. The resilient sealing elements are pre-installed on each module, and the interlocking geometries are pre-configured, so that during installation only simple connection actions are needed rather than performing complex assembly operations on-site.
2Reliability
If traditional flood barrier systems are used, then adequate sealing can be achieved, but the complexity of assembly and disassembly is high
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are combined into each barrier element: the structural body, resilient sealing elements, interlocking features, and attachment mechanisms are integrated into single modular units. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate components and simplifies the assembly process while maintaining comprehensive sealing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier elements feature self-aligning interlocking geometries and self-sealing resilient elements that automatically engage and seal when modules are connected. The design requires minimal operator skill or complex tools, as the modules guide themselves into proper alignment and create seals through their inherent elastic properties.
3Reliability
If heavy-duty barrier elements are used to ensure structural strength, then water resistance is improved, but weight and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier elements utilize composite construction combining rigid structural materials with resilient sealing materials. The rigid portions provide structural strength while the resilient portions (such as elastomeric sealing elements) provide water tightness. This composite approach achieves adequate water resistance with lighter overall weight compared to solid heavy-duty materials.
Solution Approach 2:
Resilient sealing elements with elastic properties are used to create water-tight seals. These flexible components can deform to conform to mating surfaces and maintain sealing pressure without requiring heavy rigid structures. The thin-walled resilient elements provide effective sealing while minimizing weight.
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 allows for rapid and secure installation of flood barriers, reducing installation time, enhancing structural stability, and enabling lighter, less costly barrier elements, while ensuring effective sealing and easy storage, thus minimizing damage from flooding.
Implementation Method 1
each of the barrier elements is provided with a resilient sealing element along its bottom to form a seal with the underlying barrier element or, in the case of the bottom most element, with the threshold of the opening
Data Source
AI summary
A flood barrier system for temporarily sealing an opening in a wall structure against the inflow of flood waters. The system comprises a plurality of elongated, horizontally disposed barrier elements of a length somewhat greater than the width of the opening. The barrier elements are stacked vertically, one upon the other against the outer face of the wall structure. End clamps engage opposite ends of the individual barrier elements to press them snugly against the outer surface of the wall, providing seals along the opposite vertical side edges of the opening. The barrier elements incorporate a unique interlocking configuration that simplifies and expedites assembly of a flood barrier and strengthens the integrity of the assembled structure. Improved and simplified arrangements are provided for clamping the ends of the barrier elements and for applying downward pressure to the assembled barrier. The resulting structure is more economical to provide and maintain and is more quickly assembled in the often emergency circumstances in which it is required.