Modular Wheelchair Ramps and Hand Railings for On-Site Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing accessibility systems, such as wheelchair ramps and hand railings, face challenges in manufacturing, transportation, and on-site installation due to bulky subassemblies and complex joint connections, which are costly and pose safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A modular system comprising panels with connectors that engage side-by-side to form continuous surfaces, using screw bosses for fastening, and components like connector panels, side rails, and brackets for secure assembly, allowing for simplified manufacturing and installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If components are welded together to form large subassemblies, then structural strength is improved, but transportation difficulty and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The accessibility system is divided into multiple modular components (ramp sections, platform sections, hand railing sections) that can be manufactured separately and assembled on-site using connection parts, avoiding the need to weld large subassemblies together while maintaining structural integrity through standardized mechanical connections
2Strength
If components are welded together to form large subassemblies, then structural strength is improved, but transportation cost and difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses segmented modular components that are smaller and lighter individually, making them easier to transport. The connection parts use mechanical fastening methods rather than welding, reducing the overall weight and complexity of transportation logistics while maintaining structural strength through standardized connection mechanisms
3Ease of manufacture
If joint and connection parts are used to secure components, then transportation and installation are simplified, but assembly complexity and safety concerns increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection parts are designed to integrate multiple functions into single components - providing both structural connection and alignment features, incorporating safety mechanisms directly into the connection interface, and using standardized fastening methods that simplify assembly while maintaining structural integrity and reducing safety concerns
Data Source
AI summary
A modular clamp system includes a first component and a bracket. The first component includes a web defining a body having first and second channels orientated towards one another and defining a first height between exteriors thereof and a second height between interiors thereof. The bracket includes a base having first and second flanges extending from opposite ends thereof, a frame extending from the base, and defines a third height between ends of the first and second flanges greater than the second height and less than the first height. A portion of the bracket is configured for insertion into the first component in a first orientation and is further configured for rotation relative to the first component such that the first and second flanges are respectively received within the first and second channels to engage the bracket relative to the first component.