Self-Righting Post With Elastomeric Hinge Tube
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional delineator posts collapse when pushed or impacted, especially when weighted with sign panels, due to lack of flexibility and inadequate anchoring, leading to inability to self-right to a vertical position without ancillary devices.
Innovation Solution
A self-righting post system featuring an inner elastomeric rebound member within an outer elastomeric hinge tube, allowing the post to flex and return to vertical orientation without retaining devices, combined with a robust fastening system that includes a vertically oriented bolt and separate, more rigid extension post for added strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional single-thickness wall posts are used, then manufacturing is simple and cost is low, but the post collapses at flexing points and cannot self-right after being pushed over
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nesting by placing an inner elastomeric tube inside an outer elastomeric tube, creating a nested dual-tube structure. The inner tube provides rebound assistance while the outer tube provides structural support, together enabling the post to self-right after impact without collapsing at flexing points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite materials by combining two different elastomeric materials with different properties - the inner tube has higher rebound characteristics while the outer tube has higher structural integrity. This composite construction allows the post to both self-right and maintain structural strength.
2Reliability
If inner tubes are fixed or fastened to the outer tube, then structural stability is improved, but assembly complexity increases and robustness decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by designing the inner tube to be freely disposed within the outer tube without requiring fasteners, cables, or friction fits for retention. The elastomeric properties of both tubes provide sufficient structural stability while allowing easy assembly and disassembly.
3Reliability
If polyethylene posts with inner tubes are used, then some self-righting capability is achieved, but substantial weight from sign panels prevents returning to vertical position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using elastomeric materials with specific durometer hardness values - the inner tube has a durometer of 40-70 Shore A for rebound assistance, while the outer tube has a durometer of 30-60 Shore A for structural support. These material parameter selections enable the post to self-right even with substantial weight from sign panels.
4Reliability
If horizontal pins are used for mounting, then single post stability is adequate, but surface area contact is insufficient for heavier sign panels during vehicle impacts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning from horizontal pin mounting to vertical post mounting. This orientation change increases the contact surface area between the post and mounting surface, providing greater stability for heavier sign panels during vehicle impacts.
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 system effectively self-rights the post after impacts, supporting heavier sign panels and improving durability and assembly ease, with the elastomeric member preventing collapse and the robust fastening enhancing structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
an inner elastomeric (rebound assist) member disposed inside an outer elastomeric member, configured as a hinge tube
Implementation Method 2
the outer elastomeric member... the inner elastomeric member
Data Source
AI summary
A self-righting post assembly includes an elastomeric hinge tube and an elastomeric inner member is disposed in the hinge tube. In one embodiment, an extension post is disposed over the hinge tube. A sign panel can be secured to the extension post. In one embodiment, the inner member is free of any engagement with the hinge tube. In one embodiment, the hinge tube is secured to a base, preferably with a vertically oriented fastener. A method of assembling the post assembly is also provided.