Segmented Noise Barrier With Load-Bearing and Infill Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing barriers for separating communication lines, such as railways, face installation challenges due to heavy and costly reinforced concrete segments that require precise alignment and lengthy preparation, leading to high production costs and installation difficulties.
Innovation Solution
A barrier design featuring load-bearing and infill segments with lighter, less structurally resistant infill segments that use simpler foundations and interconnection means allowing for angular adjustments, facilitating easier installation and reducing construction time and costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If reinforced concrete segments are used to support the upper barrier part, then structural strength is improved, but weight increases and installation difficulty worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating between load-bearing segments that require full structural strength and infill segments that have reduced structural requirements. The infill segments use lighter materials or simplified construction while the load-bearing segments maintain full reinforced concrete structure, optimizing the overall barrier strength-to-weight ratio.
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier is divided into distinct load-bearing segments and infill segments. This segmentation allows different portions of the barrier to have different structural characteristics - the load-bearing segments provide necessary strength while infill segments reduce overall weight and installation complexity.
2Reliability
If precise alignment is implemented for segment joints, then structural reliability is improved, but installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates alignment features and adjustment mechanisms during the manufacturing phase rather than requiring precise field alignment during installation. The segments are pre-configured with connection elements that facilitate easier on-site assembly while maintaining proper joint alignment and stress distribution.
3Force
If traditional reinforced concrete foundations are used, then load-bearing capacity is improved, but production cost and preparation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The foundation system is differentiated to match the segment types: load-bearing segments are supported by reinforced concrete foundations with full load-bearing capacity, while infill segments use simpler, less expensive foundation preparations that are quicker to install and require fewer materials.
4Strength
If all segments are made identical and structurally resistant, then barrier strength is improved, but material cost and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Different segment types are used throughout the barrier structure - load-bearing segments with full structural reinforcement where needed, and infill segments with reduced material requirements in less critical positions. This optimizes material usage while maintaining overall barrier strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier is segmented into functional zones with different structural requirements, allowing optimized material distribution throughout the structure rather than uniform reinforcement everywhere.
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 2B
AI summary
A barrier (10), in particular for infrastructures or constructions, especially for separating lines of communication, such as railways, roads or the like, from the surrounding environment, comprises a lower part (11) supporting an upper part (13) of the same barrier extending above the lower part (11), the lower supporting part (11) comprising a plurality of segments which are lined up or placed side by side in the direction of extension of the barrier. The barrier comprises segments (12) forming a respective load-bearing member and segments (14) forming a respective infill member and which are alternated with and connected to the load-bearing segments (12).