Apparatus to facilitate physical distancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for physical distancing in bars and communal gaming tables are impractical, as fixed barriers are not feasible and reducing patron numbers to meet distancing guidelines can be economically unsustainable, while also deterring social groups from visiting.
Innovation Solution
A removable barrier system that can be easily deployed and stowed over communal surfaces, using a U-shaped bracket with a frame and locking mechanism to provide separation between patrons without obstructing group interactions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed barriers are installed to separate patrons, then physical distancing is achieved, but the bar becomes unattractive to social groups and economic viability is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier assembly is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to transition between deployed and stowed positions. The bracket system with channels and connectors enables the barrier to be repositioned along the bar, providing dynamic adaptability to different social configurations while maintaining physical distancing when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier system is divided into modular components including separate barrier sections, brackets, and connectors. This segmentation allows individual barrier assemblies to be independently positioned and configured, enabling flexible arrangement that can accommodate both social grouping and physical distancing requirements.
2Reliability
If the number of patrons is reduced to meet distancing guidelines, then physical distancing is achieved, but economic viability becomes in doubt
Solution Approach 1:
The movable barrier system allows patrons to be dynamically reconfigured in space. By enabling flexible positioning of barriers, the system maximizes the number of patrons that can be accommodated while maintaining required distancing, thereby preserving economic viability.
3Reliability
If removable barrier assemblies are deployed, then physical distancing is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into standardized modular components (barrier sections, brackets, connectors) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This modularity simplifies the overall complexity by breaking down the complex barrier system into manageable, interchangeable parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket and connector components are designed with universal features that allow them to work with multiple barrier sections and be positioned at various locations along the bar. This universality reduces the total number of different component types needed, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention include a barrier assembly including a frame to hold a barrier member. A bracket defines a track and the bracket can be attached to a support surface such that a first branch of the bracket resides on a first side of the support surface and a second branch of the bracket resides on a second side of the support surface. An articulating connector couples the frame to track, the articulating connector enables the frame to move in at least two degrees of freedom relative to the track. The frame and connector can move along the track from a first position in which the frame resides above the support surface to a second position in which the frame resides below the support surface.