Modular Barrier Kit with Tensioned Strap and Height Stabilization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing barrier systems with strap-rail members tend to sag under weight, compromising their effectiveness, and they often require significant storage and transportation space due to heavy, bulky components, while also posing challenges in erection and removal.

Innovation Solution

A modular barrier system kit that includes a removable strap-rail component with anchor attachment means and tensioning devices, allowing for adjustable tension and height stabilization using clamp means to maintain the strap at a predetermined height, and utilizing existing site support structures like columns or walls as anchors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If strap-rail members are used in barrier systems, then the barrier becomes more flexible and easier to transport, but the strap-rail members sag under weight compromising effectiveness

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveflexibilityVSAvoideffectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-tensioning the strap-rail members using tensioning devices before use, and by pre-positioning support elements at predetermined points along the strap to prevent sagging. The support elements are installed in advance to maintain the strap at the correct height and tension, ensuring effectiveness before any load is applied.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces support elements as intermediary components between the strap-rail members and the environment. These support elements act as mediators that provide additional support points along the strap length, distributing the load and preventing sagging while maintaining the flexibility of the strap-rail system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Strength

If rigid fencing components are used in barrier systems, then the barrier provides stronger protection, but the components become heavy and bulky requiring significant storage and transportation space

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveprotectionVSAvoidstorage space
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional rigid fencing components with flexible strap-rail members that function as thin, lightweight barriers. These strap members provide the necessary protective function while occupying minimal storage space and being easy to transport, eliminating the bulk associated with rigid metal or wooden fencing components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the physical parameters of the barrier system by transitioning from rigid, heavy materials to flexible, lightweight strap materials. This parameter change maintains protective strength through proper tensioning and support while dramatically reducing volume and weight for storage and transportation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If strap-rail members are tensioned to prevent sagging, then the barrier effectiveness improves, but the device complexity increases due to additional tensioning mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveeffectivenessVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service by designing tensioning devices that can be easily operated by the user without requiring specialized tools or complex procedures. The support elements are designed to be self-positioning at predetermined points along the strap, automatically providing support when installed, which reduces the complexity of the overall system while maintaining effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 effectively prevents sagging, reduces storage and transportation needs, and allows for easy erection and dismantling while meeting safety regulations, enhancing safety and operational efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

tensioning means for subjecting the flexible rail component to tension

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTension: Tension

Implementation Method 2

height stabilization means for releasably maintaining the strap means at a predetermined height level

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical support: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS8424852B2Kit for a barrier system
Publication Date: 2013.04.23 ANSON BENJAMIN
  • US8424852B2 patent drawing
  • US8424852B2 patent drawing
  • US8424852B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A removable barricade or barrier which has one or more horizontally tensioned straps and one or more vertically extending elevation support elements associated therewith. The barricade or barrier may be erected and dismantled as desired.