Modular Dock Beam Assembly Using Mateable Sections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dock manufacturing faces challenges in shipping and inventory management due to the need for custom lengths, which incur high costs and restricts the use of conventional shipping methods, as well as the requirement for a large inventory of dock beams to accommodate various dock lengths.
Innovation Solution
A universal dock kit that allows for the in situ assembly of elongated dock beams of varying lengths using mateable male and female beams with regular spaced holes for secure fastening, enabling the formation of longer beams without exceeding shipping restrictions and reducing inventory needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If docks are made to order for each application with custom lengths, then the dock can accommodate specific lakeshore requirements, but shipping costs increase and conventional shipping methods become restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The dock beam is divided into multiple shorter beam sections that can be shipped using conventional methods without exceeding carrier length restrictions. These sections are then assembled on-site to form the required custom-length dock beam, resolving the contradiction between customization and shipping feasibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The dock system transitions from a static pre-assembled beam to a dynamic modular system where beam sections can be configured in different lengths by adding or removing sections, allowing customization while maintaining shipping efficiency.
2Stability of the object's composition
If continuous elongated dock beams are used to support dock planks, then a stable walking surface is ensured, but the beams must be manufactured in various lengths requiring large inventory
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of maintaining inventory of various长度的 continuous beams, the system uses standardized beam sections that are assembled to create the required lengths. This reduces inventory complexity while maintaining the stability provided by continuous beam construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The beam sections are designed with universal connection features that allow them to function in multiple positions and configurations, replacing the need for specialized beams of different lengths and reducing overall inventory requirements.
3Length of moving object
If shorter beam sections are assembled to form elongated dock beams, then shipping restrictions are avoided, but additional connection components are required
Solution Approach 1:
The connection functionality is merged into the beam sections themselves through integrated connection features such as built-in flanges, bolts, or interlocking mechanisms. This eliminates the need for separate gusset plates or tie members, reducing overall component complexity while enabling efficient assembly of elongated beams from shorter sections.
Data Source
AI summary
A dock and dock kit suitable for shipping from a manufacturing site to an erection site where a dock can be erected having elongated dock beams with a length that is greater than the length of any of the beams in the dock kit and the mateable beams have surfaces that are mateable and securable to each other through fasteners to form elongated dock beams with each of the mateable beams having supports thereon for receiving and holding a plurality of dock planks thereon.