Removable Rockfall Barrier with Modular Anchoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rockfall barriers are typically permanent installations, which are not cost-effective or efficient for dynamic environments where rapid deployment and relocation are necessary.
Innovation Solution
A high-impact structural barrier framework that is removably coupled to the ground surface, comprising frame members with crossbars and posts, ground frames that extend between frame members, and a mesh that extends between the frame members, with ground engaging means such as anchors and weighted anchors to secure the framework.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If permanent rockfall barriers are installed to provide sufficient strength to block falling debris, then the barrier's strength and reliability are improved, but the barrier cannot be relocated and requires permanent installation
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier is divided into modular sections with standardized connection interfaces. Each section includes frame members, mesh panels, and connection elements that can be independently assembled and disassembled. This segmentation allows the barrier to maintain structural strength through proper mechanical connections while enabling relocation by disconnecting and reassembling modules at different sites.
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier transitions from a static permanent installation to a dynamic reusable system. Connection elements incorporate features like removable fasteners, detachable joints, and reconfigurable anchoring mechanisms that allow the barrier to be quickly assembled, deployed, disassembled, and relocated. This dynamic design maintains structural integrity during use while enabling adaptability for different deployment scenarios.
2Reliability
If permanent rockfall barriers are installed to ensure adequate protection, then the reliability is improved, but the cost-effectiveness deteriorates due to inability to relocate
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier system is designed for recovery and reuse rather than permanent disposal. After deployment, the modular barrier can be disassembled and relocated to new sites where protection is needed. Connection elements and structural components are designed to withstand multiple assembly-disassembly cycles while maintaining their load-bearing capacity, thereby spreading the initial investment across multiple uses and improving cost-effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular barrier components are designed with universal connection interfaces and standardized dimensions that allow the same elements to be used in various configurations and locations. This universality enables a single set of barrier components to serve multiple protection needs across different sites, maximizing the return on investment and improving cost-effectiveness while maintaining reliable protection.
3Strength
If conventional rockfall barriers are permanently installed to provide sufficient blocking strength, then the barrier's ability to stop debris is improved, but the deployment time and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier is divided into pre-fabricated modular sections that can be independently transported and quickly assembled on-site. Each module contains integrated connection elements and standardized dimensions, allowing rapid assembly without complex field fabrication. This segmentation maintains structural strength through proper mechanical connections while dramatically reducing deployment time compared to permanent installations.
Solution Approach 2:
Barrier modules are pre-assembled and pre-configured off-site before deployment. Connection elements, fasteners, and structural components are prepared in advance with standardized interfaces. This preliminary preparation allows the barrier to be rapidly deployed by simply connecting pre-assembled modules at the target location, significantly improving deployment speed while maintaining the structural integrity needed to block debris.
Data Source
AI summary
A high-impact structural barrier is provided. The barrier comprises a plurality of sections and is configured to be removably coupled to a ground surface. Each section generally includes two frame members, a ground frame extending between the two frame members that is configured to be supported by a ground surface, and a mesh extending between the two frame members. The means to secure the barrier to the ground include cables that are removably coupled to the ground, ground anchors that are removably coupled to the ground, and/or anchor weights that are removably coupled to the framework and/or the ground.