Post Socket Compressible Sleeve Linkage Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional post sockets require significant force to secure posts, which can lead to permanent deformation and alter the bending and buckling characteristics of the posts, compromising their functionality, especially when impacted by vehicles, and are time-consuming to replace damaged posts.
Innovation Solution
A post socket with a compressible sleeve and linkage system that adjusts to grip the post without deforming it, using a mechanism with a pivotable linkage and actuator to change the internal width of the sleeve, allowing for secure retention and easy release of the post.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a bolt is driven into the post to secure it within the post socket, then the post is retained within the socket, but the post becomes permanently deformed with an indentation where the bolt contacts the post
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping force is divided into multiple contact points around the post circumference rather than concentrated at a single bolt contact point. The sleeve engages the post at multiple locations simultaneously, distributing the force and preventing localized deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The sleeve acts as an intermediary element between the retention mechanism and the post. Instead of direct bolt-to-post contact, the sleeve mediates the force application, providing a larger contact area that distributes pressure and prevents indentation deformation.
2Strength
If a deformed post is used, then the post socket can retain the post, but the post loses its intended bending and buckling characteristics when impacted by a vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The retention force is segmented into multiple contact points around the post, preserving the post's structural integrity and bending characteristics while still achieving secure retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The design changes from point-contact retention (bolt) to surface-contact retention (sleeve), altering the pressure distribution parameters to maintain post integrity while achieving sufficient retention force.
3Strength
If conventional post sockets are used, then posts can be retained, but replacing damaged posts is time-consuming which causes delay to traffic and increases labour cost
Solution Approach 1:
The sleeve is designed to be dynamically adjustable between a first position for easy post insertion/removal and a second position for secure retention. This dynamic positioning system enables quick post replacement while maintaining strong retention during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator mechanism allows for self-contained operation where the sleeve can be automatically positioned to engage or disengage from the post without requiring complex external tools or procedures, reducing replacement time.
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 solution minimizes pressure on the post, reduces the risk of deformation, and facilitates quick replacement of damaged posts, maintaining the original bending and buckling characteristics while reducing labor costs and traffic disruptions.
Implementation Method 1
a compressible sleeve (also referred to as a 'sleeve') within the housing, the sleeve arranged to receive at least a portion of a post therein, wherein the sleeve is moveable between a first position in which the sleeve has a first internal width and a second position in which the sleeve has a second internal width which is less than the first internal width
Data Source
AI summary
A post socket includes a housing, a compressible sleeve within the housing, the sleeve being moveable between a first position in which the sleeve has a first internal width and a second position in which the sleeve has a second internal width, a linkage pivotably connected to the sleeve, and an actuator for actuating the linkage to move the sleeve from the first position to the second position to grip a post therein, the linkage including a linkage body connected to the actuator, the linkage further including at least one arm including a first end and a second end, the actuator being configured so that its actuation moves the linkage body to thereby move the first end and the second end of the at least one arm and thus move the sleeve from the first position to the second position.