Modular Barrier Panels with Factory-Attached Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular barrier systems for outdoor ice rinks and sports applications are either costly or difficult to install and maintain, lacking robustness and convenience, especially for ice hockey and skating surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A modular barrier system comprising plastic panels with factory-attached links that are easily aligned and connected using demountable fasteners, providing a robust and level surface with optional curved panels for round corners, enhancing stability and ease of assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If modular barrier systems are constructed using separate components (panels and links) requiring field assembly, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but device complexity and difficulty of installation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate barrier panels and links into a single integrated modular unit. The link is permanently attached to each panel during manufacturing, creating a unified component that eliminates the need for field assembly of separate parts. This merging maintains adaptability while significantly reducing installation complexity and time.
Solution Approach 2:
The links are pre-attached to the panels during factory manufacturing rather than being assembled in the field. This preliminary action ensures proper alignment and connection before installation, reducing on-site complexity and ensuring consistent quality without compromising the modular adaptability of the system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If modular barrier systems use multiple separate components requiring assembly, then adaptability is improved, but loss of time during installation increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the panel and link into a single pre-assembled unit, the patent eliminates the time-consuming field assembly process. The integrated modular unit can be installed as one piece, dramatically reducing installation time while preserving the adaptability needed for different barrier configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The link attachment is performed in advance during manufacturing, converting a time-consuming field operation into a pre-completed task. This preliminary action transfers the assembly time from the installation phase to the manufacturing phase, significantly reducing on-site installation time while maintaining system adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If barrier systems require field assembly of multiple components, then adaptability is improved, but ease of manufacture worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges panel and link manufacturing into a single integrated production process. This allows the manufacturer to produce complete modular units in one streamlined operation, improving ease of manufacture compared to producing separate components that require coordinated assembly, while still delivering an adaptable final system.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular barrier system enables demountable outdoor rinks—typically for ice hockey, or ice skating, or street hockey. A rink includes multiple panels, each having a factory-attached link. These panels are linearly disposed, adjacent to one another, to form a piecewise continuous boundary wall enclosing a desired area. Attaching one link to the next, typically via insertion of a thumbscrew, connects the panels into a robust assembly. Both straight and curved panels are provided, thereby enabling a rink with round corners. Each panel includes a shell molded from plastic resin, and has a hollow interior which can be filled with water (or other ballast).