Modular Rooftop Walkway with Adjustable Cross Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rooftop walkways are either flimsy and of limited durability or bulky and difficult to install, especially when encountering obstacles on a roof, requiring time-consuming and costly modifications.
Innovation Solution
A modular walkway platform system using on-site coupled components, where elongate side supports can be modified by cutting and adjusting cross members to fit around obstacles, allowing for flexible design and installation without pre-assembled sections, and incorporating channel nuts for secure assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If pre-assembled sections are used for rooftop walkways, then installation speed is improved, but adaptability to obstacles and design modifications deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The walkway is divided into modular components including elongate side supports, cross members, and panels that can be independently assembled and configured. This segmentation allows rapid assembly while maintaining flexibility to adapt to various roof layouts and obstacles by simply reconfiguring the modular elements rather than modifying pre-assembled sections.
2Reliability
If bulky pre-assembled sections are used, then structural durability is improved, but ease of installation and maneuverability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The walkway system is segmented into manageable modular components that can be easily maneuvered into position on the roof, then assembled to form a structurally durable complete structure. The modular nature allows components to be lifted and positioned separately rather than handling large bulky sections, while the interconnected design maintains overall structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple modular components are combined through coupling mechanisms (such as interlocking features, bolts, or welds) to create a unified structurally durable walkway system. The merging of these individual durable components results in a complete structure that maintains high reliability while being easier to install than a single pre-assembled bulky section.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modifications are made to pre-assembled panels to fit obstacles, then adaptability is improved, but installation time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The walkway is segmented into modular components that can be individually adjusted in length or configuration by adding or removing sections, allowing easy adaptation to obstacles without time-consuming modifications to pre-assembled panels. The standardized coupling mechanisms enable rapid reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design provides dynamic adaptability where the walkway configuration can be easily changed during installation to accommodate obstacles by simply repositioning or reconfiguring modular sections rather than permanently modifying rigid pre-assembled panels, significantly reducing installation time.
Data Source
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AI summary
A modular walkway component (30)(40) for use in a kit of parts/method for constructing a platform for use as a walkway, the modular walkway component (30)(40) comprising an elongate body (32)(43) having an upper surface (32A(42A), a lower surface (32B)(42B), an inner wall (32C)(42C) and an outer wall (32D)(42D), the elongate body (32)(43) further defining a first flange (34A)(44A) extending from the inner wall (32C)(42C) along a length of the first side support and a second flange (34B)(44B) extending from the inner wall (32C)(42C) parallel to the first flange (34A)(34B) and spaced therefrom to define a channel (36)(46) for receiving and supporting a cross member.