Subsurface Security Barrier Structure for Shallow Installation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle barrier systems require large, heavy concrete blocks and extensive digging, leading to inefficient and costly installation processes.

Innovation Solution

A security system with a barrier comprising a first and second support element and an elongated carrier element positioned below ground level, supported by plate-shaped elements that reduce the depth of excavation, combined with upwardly extending stanchions for vehicular impact resistance, allowing for a modular and flexible design.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If large concrete blocks are used to provide sufficient strength, then the barrier strength is improved, but the excavation depth and installation complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebarrier strengthVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The barrier system is divided into modular components: horizontal carrier elements positioned at different depths, vertical support elements, and connecting members. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies installation compared to monolithic concrete blocks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention transitions from vertical placement of concrete blocks to a three-dimensional configuration with horizontal carrier elements at multiple depth levels. This dimensional change distributes the structural function across multiple levels, reducing the need for deep excavation while maintaining strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Strength

If concrete blocks of considerable size are used, then the barrier strength is improved, but the material usage and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebarrier strengthVSAvoidmaterial usage
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The barrier system combines different materials with complementary properties: horizontal carrier elements (metal or composite), vertical support elements (metal), and connecting members. This composite approach provides high strength-to-weight ratio compared to monolithic concrete blocks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

By segmenting the barrier into modular components positioned at different depths, the system achieves the required strength with less total material volume. Each segment contributes to the overall structural integrity without requiring excessive material in any single location.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Stability of the object's composition

If deep excavation is performed to install concrete blocks, then the barrier stability is improved, but the installation time and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebarrier stabilityVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses partial excavation only where needed for positioning horizontal carrier elements at specific depth levels, rather than requiring deep excavation throughout. This partial action approach maintains stability while significantly reducing installation time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The modular segmented design allows for staged installation where horizontal carrier elements can be positioned at different depths independently, reducing the overall excavation depth required and enabling faster installation compared to monolithic concrete block systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Strength

If traditional concrete block systems are used, then the barrier strength is improved, but the adaptability to different configurations decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebarrier strengthVSAvoidconfiguration adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The barrier system consists of standardized modular components (horizontal carrier elements, vertical support elements, connecting members) that can be configured in various arrangements. This segmentation provides high adaptability to different site requirements while maintaining structural strength through consistent connection methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The horizontal carrier elements serve multiple functions: providing structural support, defining barrier depth levels, and serving as attachment points for vertical support elements. This multi-functionality increases configuration adaptability without compromising strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP4288604B1Security system with a barrier
Publication Date: 2025.09.10 UNAFOR LTD
  • EP4288604B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4288604B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP4288604B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

The present invention provides a security system providing a barrier above a ground level. The security system comprises a first support element extending in a first direction and a second support element extending in a second direction, where the first support element and the second support element are substantially plate-shaped and arranged below ground level. The security system further comprises an elongated carrier element extending in a third direction, where the third direction is transverse to the first direction and the second direction. The first support element and the second support element are attached to a lower surface of the elongated carrier element to provide support for the elongated carrier element, where both the first support element and the second support element extend away from the elongated carrier element on opposite sides of the elongated carrier element, and where the elongated carrier element is arranged below ground level. The security system further comprises at least one elongated stanchion extending upwardly from an upper surface of the elongated carrier element from a point below ground level to a point above ground level. The at least one stanchions is removably attached to the elongated carrier element.