Portable Hurdle Tension Bow and Base Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hurdles are not economical to manufacture and purchase, are not easily portable or compact for storage, lack ease of setup and use, and are not effectively adjustable or stable in wind conditions.
Innovation Solution
A portable hurdle design featuring a base and bow portion with a securing device, such as a strap, that allows for adjustable height settings and easy assembly, stability, and collapsibility for safety, while maintaining compact storage and transportability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional hurdle structures are used, then stability is maintained, but portability and compact storage are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The hurdle is divided into separate components: a base portion and a bow portion that can be detached from each other. The bow portion can be further segmented into adjustable height sections. This segmentation allows the hurdle to be disassembled for easy portability and compact storage, while each segment maintains structural integrity for stability during use.
2Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable height mechanisms are added, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hurdle incorporates a dynamic height adjustment mechanism where the bow portion can be reconfigured to different heights by adjusting the angle between segments or repositioning connection points. This dynamic system allows the hurdle to adapt to various athletic events and training requirements without requiring multiple fixed-height hurdles, maintaining simplicity while providing versatility.
3Weight of moving object
If lightweight materials are used, then portability is improved, but stability in wind conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The hurdle utilizes composite construction combining lightweight materials (such as aluminum or composite polymers) with strategic reinforcement elements. The base portion may use heavier, more stable materials while the bow portion uses lighter materials, creating a composite structure that optimizes both portability and wind stability. The segmented design allows different material properties to be applied where most beneficial.
4Stability of the object's composition
If permanent fixed structures are used, then stability is maintained, but ease of setup and teardown is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The hurdle is designed with pre-assembled base portions and pre-configured bow portions that require minimal assembly steps. Connection mechanisms are pre-engineered for quick attachment and detachment, allowing the hurdle to be rapidly set up and torn down without compromising structural stability when assembled. The segmented design with standardized connection interfaces enables fast deployment.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The hurdle is economical, easy to set up and use, stable in wind, and collapses safely if contacted, offering adjustable heights and efficient storage and transport solutions.
Implementation Method 1
The bow portion is brought into tension and held in place with a securing device, such as a strap or the like, to form the legs of the hurdle
Data Source
AI summary
A portable hurdle for use primarily athletes has a base portion operably secured to a bow portion that holds the hurdle to a predefined height when the bow portion is placed in tension by a securing structure. The hurdle lays substantially flat when the bow portion is returned to its neutral position. In one disclosed embodiment, the securing structure is a trap that forms the top of the hurdle. In other disclosed embodiments, the base portion defines the top of the hurdle. An adjustment structure allows for adjustment of the hurdle's height.