Modular barrier system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular barrier systems for outdoor ice skating or ice hockey rinks are either costly, difficult to install, or fail to provide a smooth and robust skating surface due to stake-based security methods that puncture tarps and cause leaks.
Innovation Solution
A modular barrier system comprising plastic wall members with topological stiffeners and a chain of links connected by demountable fasteners, which eliminates the need for stakes, allows for easy installation, and features a waterproof tarp secured with tying cords to create a smooth, robust, and leak-proof skating surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If stake-based security methods are used to secure the tarp, then the tarp can be anchored to the ground, but the stakes puncture the tarp and cause leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the harmful stakes from the system entirely. Instead of using stakes to anchor the tarp, the system uses a modular barrier structure with interlocking walls that stand independently. The tarp is secured to the barrier structure through grommets and stitching rather than puncturing stakes, eliminating the source of leaks while maintaining anchoring functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular barrier structure acts as an intermediary between the ground and the tarp. Rather than directly puncturing the tarp with stakes, the barrier walls provide structural support and anchoring points. The tarp is attached to these walls through non-puncturing methods (grommets, stitching), allowing the intermediary structure to bear the anchoring load without compromising tarp integrity.
2Strength
If traditional modular barrier systems are used, then structural support is provided, but installation is difficult and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier structure is divided into modular wall sections that can be independently assembled. Each wall section contains integrated features (grommets, stitching channels, interlocking mechanisms) that simplify assembly. The segmented design allows for easy configuration and modification while maintaining structural integrity, making installation more accessible to non-experts.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines multiple functions into integrated components. The wall sections incorporate anchoring points, tarp attachment mechanisms, and interlocking features within single molded pieces. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate fasteners, grommets, and assembly hardware, significantly simplifying installation while maintaining structural strength.
3Ease of operation
If the tarp is exposed at the perimeter, then it can be secured to the barrier, but the exposed tarp is vulnerable to damage from skates and hockey sticks
Solution Approach 1:
The tarp is folded up and secured to the barrier walls before any skating or hockey activities begin. The fold-up design creates a protective overlap that shields the tarp edges from direct contact with skates and sticks. This preliminary positioning of the tarp prevents damage before it can occur, rather than attempting to repair damage after it happens.
Solution Approach 2:
The tarp is designed as a flexible membrane that can be folded and contoured to fit the barrier structure. The flexibility allows the tarp to create protective layers and overlaps that naturally deflect and absorb impacts from skates and hockey sticks, preventing punctures and tears while maintaining the ability to be securely attached to the rigid barrier framework.
Data Source
AI summary
A portable ice rink includes a wall formed of multiple wall members linearly disposed adjacent to one another to form a piecewise continuous wall that encloses a desired area, and also includes a chain of links disposed on the outside of the wall members for reinforcement. The rink may further include a waterproof tarp extending underneath the wall members and folded upwards along the outer side of the wall, with its edge tied to the change of links. The tarp can contain water which then freezes to form a skating surface. Curved wall members are provided to form a rink with round corners. Each wall member is a discrete unit, made of molded plastic, and having a hollow interior which can be filled with water (or other ballast). Each wall member is designed with stiffening features to maintain the flatness of its inner surface after filling.