Modular Access Structure with Deformable Supports
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current temporary access structures, such as bridges and overhead protection structures, face limitations including limited spans, high installation and transportation costs, and complex assembly and disassembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A modular access structure comprising a longitudinally and vertically extending frame with deformable lower and upper support structures, allowing configuration between extended and collapsed states for easy assembly and transportation, and featuring connectors for end-to-end fastening to form a continuous passage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If traditional temporary access structures are used, then installation and transportation costs are high, but span capabilities are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The access structure is divided into multiple modular units that can be independently manufactured and transported. Each module contains standardized connection interfaces that allow them to be assembled into longer spans by connecting multiple modules end-to-end, thereby achieving extended span capabilities while maintaining manageable transportation and installation costs for individual modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structures within each module are designed to be deformable, allowing the modules to be collapsed into a compact configuration for transportation and then extended to their full span configuration during installation. This dynamic transformation capability enables the structure to adapt between transport and operational states, achieving long spans without proportionally increasing transportation costs.
2Ease of operation
If traditional access structures are used, then assembly and disassembly processes are complex, but structural stability is maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is segmented into modular units with standardized connection interfaces. These interfaces are designed to simplify assembly and disassembly operations while maintaining structural integrity through proven connection mechanisms. The segmentation allows for straightforward concatenation of modules without complex assembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple modular units are combined through standardized connection interfaces that integrate various structural functions into unified connection points. This merging approach allows for rapid assembly while maintaining structural stability, as the combined structure benefits from the collective strength of all connected modules working together as a unified system.
3Adaptability or versatility
If deformable support structures are implemented, then configuration flexibility is improved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support structures are designed with controlled deformability, allowing them to transition between collapsed and extended configurations. This dynamic capability provides configuration flexibility for different operational requirements while the deformable mechanisms are integrated into the modular design in a way that does not significantly increase overall structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structures can change their physical parameters (length, configuration) in response to operational requirements. By designing these parameter changes to occur through standardized, repeatable mechanisms within each module, the patent achieves configuration flexibility without proportionally increasing structural complexity, as the same deformable mechanisms are reused across multiple modules.
Data Source
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AI summary
An access module (1) for a modular access structure has a longitudinally and vertically extending first frame (100) and a longitudinally and vertically extending second frame (200). The second frame (200) laterally opposes the first frame (100). A deformable lower support structure (300) laterally extends between the first and second frames (100, 200). The lower support structure (300) includes a deck (360) spanning a longitudinal length of the access module (1). A deformable upper support structure (400) laterally extends between the first and second frames (100, 200). The upper support structure (400) is spaced above the deck (360). The access module (10) is configurable by deformation of the lower and upper support structures (300, 400) between an extended configuration in which the first and second frames (100, 200) are spaced apart a first distance and the deck (360) is generally horizontal and a collapsed configuration in which a distance between the first and second frames (100, 200) is less than the first distance. The access module (1) is adapted to be fastened end to end to a second access module (1).