Prop-Head Beam Locators for Fail-Safe Lateral Restraint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Horizontal construction beam assemblies in existing prop-head assemblies are prone to inadvertent lateral movement, leading to potential falls and safety hazards, as well as delays in construction scheduling.
Innovation Solution
A prop-head assembly with a first and second beam-locating feature that can selectively receive the beam-reference portion, allowing for stable support even if the beam inadvertently moves away from the initial location, ensuring the beam remains stationary relative to the column.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single beam-locating feature is used to support the horizontal construction beam assembly, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability deteriorates due to inadvertent lateral movement and potential beam falls
Solution Approach 1:
The beam-locating feature is segmented into multiple discrete locators (first locator, second locator, third locator) positioned at different locations on the prop-head assembly. Each locator can independently engage with the beam, providing redundant support points that prevent lateral movement and beam falls while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The prop-head assembly incorporates multiple beam locators as a preventive measure before any failure can occur. The redundant locators are positioned to catch the beam if it becomes dislodged from one location, providing a fail-safe mechanism that cushions against potential accidents and ensures continuous structural support.
2Reliability
If multiple beam-locating features are added to prevent lateral movement, then the reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The multiple beam locators are designed with identical or similar structures that can universally engage with the beam at different positions. This multi-functional design allows the same basic component to serve multiple purposes (primary support, secondary support, fail-safe catch) without requiring fundamentally different mechanisms, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the beam is securely fixed to prevent any movement, then the safety improves, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in installation and adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The beam support system transitions from a static single-point connection to a dynamic multi-point system. The beam can be easily installed by engaging with any one of the multiple locators, and if displacement occurs, the system dynamically adapts by allowing the beam to be caught by alternative locators, maintaining both safety and operational flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A construction beam assembly is configured to be supported, at least in part, by a prop-head assembly when the prop-head assembly is fixedly connected to a construction column configured to extend perpendicular relative to a ground surface. The construction beam assembly includes a beam including opposite end portions, a frame-engagement device, and opposite sidewalls. Each of the opposite end portions includes a first beam-reference portion configured to be selectively received, at least in part, by a first beam-locating feature of a locator plate of the prop-head assembly. A weight of the construction beam assembly is configured to be transferred, at least in part, to the opposite end portions of the construction beam assembly, and therefore at least in part to the prop-head assembly. The frame-engagement device extends, at least in part, across a top section of the beam.