Modular Post with Nested Storage for Barrier Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Temporary barriers often face challenges in achieving a balance between length, stability, portability, ease of storage, and ease of shaping around hazards due to their complex component structures, leading to difficulties in efficient storage and transport.
Innovation Solution
A modular post system with a post component that can be configured between a deployed and stored state, allowing segments to be nested within a base, and featuring retractable barrier units and weighted bases for enhanced stability and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a modular post uses separate base and post components, then flexibility in terms of size and shape of the barrier is improved, but ease of storage and transport deteriorates due to different shapes requiring larger storage space
Solution Approach 1:
The post component is designed to nest within the base component when in the stored configuration. The base has a recess that receives the post component, allowing the post to be stored compactly within the base rather than requiring separate storage space. This nesting arrangement resolves the contradiction by enabling compact storage while maintaining the modular flexible design.
2Length of moving object
If the post component is made longer for deployed configuration, then barrier length is improved, but storage compactness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The post component is divided into multiple segments that can be disconnected from one another. When stored, the segments can be separated and stored individually within the base, reducing the storage volume required. When deployed, the segments are connected to form the required barrier length. This segmentation allows the barrier to achieve sufficient length while maintaining compact storage capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented post components can be nested within each other or within the base when stored, minimizing the volume occupied during storage and transport while allowing full extension to required lengths during deployment.
3Volume of moving object
If the base is made larger to accommodate the post component in stored configuration, then storage capacity is improved, but stability in deployed configuration deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The base is designed with a recess that precisely receives the post component in the stored configuration. The recess is sized to accommodate the post component snugly without requiring excessive base size, thus maintaining storage capacity while preserving base stability when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular post system transitions dynamically between stored and deployed configurations. In the stored configuration, the post nests within the base. In the deployed configuration, the post extends from the base to provide the required barrier function. This dynamic design allows the base to maintain optimal dimensions for both storage and stability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A modular post (100) for use in a barrier system comprises a post component (105) and a base (110). The post component is configured to be attached or attachable on, to or in the base in a deployed configuration. The post component is configured to be housed within the base when the modular post is in a stored configuration. A method of using a modular post suitable for use in a barrier system is also provided. The method comprises providing a post component and a base. The post component is configured to be attached or attachable on, to or in the base in a deployed configuration. The post component is receivable or configured to be housed within the base when the modular post is in a stored configuration.