Sign Edge Bumper Assembly Using Snap-Fit Frame Sections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional parking signs with sharp edges pose a risk of unintentional collisions with pedestrians, particularly in areas where people are distracted by their phones, as they are often mounted at a height that is both visible and collision-prone.
Innovation Solution
A sign edge bumper assembly comprising identical frame sections that snap together to surround the perimeter edge of the sign, with an optional cushioned wrap for added protection, designed to be mounted on an elongated post, featuring a resilient material and snap-fit joint mechanism for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If parking signs are constructed with heavy gauge metal for durability and visibility, then the sign strength and visibility are improved, but the sharp edges create harmful factors for pedestrian safety
Solution Approach 1:
A frame assembly made of resilient material is introduced as an intermediary between the metal sign and the post, surrounding the sign's perimeter and blunting its sharp edges while leaving the sign itself intact and visible
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient frame assembly is pre-installed around the sign before it is mounted on the post, providing cushioning protection in advance to prevent harmful collisions with pedestrians
2Illumination intensity
If the sign is mounted at an optimal height for visibility, then the visibility is improved, but the sign becomes more accessible and creates higher risk for collisions with distracted pedestrians
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient frame assembly serves as a mediator between the sign and pedestrians, absorbing impact forces from collisions while allowing the sign to remain at the optimal visible height
Solution Approach 2:
The potential harmful collisions at the optimal sign height are converted into beneficial cushioning events, where the resilient frame absorbs impact energy and protects both the sign and pedestrians
3Object-generated harmful factors
If a frame assembly is added to surround the sign perimeter to blunt edges, then pedestrian safety is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame assembly is segmented into multiple identical frame sections that can be independently assembled around the sign perimeter, simplifying manufacturing and installation while maintaining safety functionality
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple identical frame sections are merged together through snap-fit joints to form a complete surrounding frame, creating a cohesive safety structure from modular components
4Ease of manufacture
If identical frame sections are used and snapped together to surround the sign, then ease of manufacture and installation are improved, but the fastening mechanism adds structural complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The frame sections feature self-service snap-fit joints that automatically connect and secure identical sections together without requiring additional fasteners or complex assembly procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is divided into identical segmented sections that can be manufactured separately and then easily assembled together through simple snap-fit connections, balancing manufacturing ease with structural integrity
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 effectively blunts the sharp edges of parking signs, reducing the risk of pedestrian collisions while maintaining visibility and ease of installation, and can be integrated with reflective or LED features for enhanced safety.
Implementation Method 1
designed to be mounted on an elongated post, featuring a resilient material
Implementation Method 2
snap-fit joint mechanism for secure attachment
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus is configured to be used with a post-mountable sign. The apparatus includes identical first and second frame sections. Each of the first and second frame sections includes a first fastening element located at a first end thereof; a second fastening element located at a second end thereof; and a first recess between the first and second ends configured to accommodate the post. The first fastening element of the first frame section is configured to cooperate with the second fastening element of the second frame section. The first fastening element of the second frame section is configured to cooperate with the second fastening element of the first frame section. The identical first and second frame sections are configured to be fastened together to surround the sign. The first recess of each of the first and second frame sections is configured to be positioned adjacent the post.