Tactile Embedment Plate Alignment Bracket
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tactile detection embedment plates for visually impaired individuals are either too heavy and difficult to install, or made of fragile materials that deteriorate quickly under environmental stress, such as ultraviolet light and impact from snowplow equipment.
Innovation Solution
A lighter, durable embedment plate system with alignment brackets that allow for secure, co-planar alignment and connection of plates, enabling easier installation by one person and accommodating various installation scenarios, including the use of smaller plates and wedges for secure assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cast iron embedment plates are used for durability and strength, then reliability is improved, but weight increases making installation difficult and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the large cast iron plate into multiple smaller plates that can be individually handled and installed. These smaller plates are then connected using alignment brackets and connectors, allowing one-person installation while maintaining the overall structural integrity and durability of the embedment surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces alignment brackets and connectors as intermediary components between the smaller plates. These intermediaries enable the plates to be securely joined together, ensuring proper alignment and co-planarity while reducing the weight burden on individual installers.
2Ease of operation
If plastic embedment plates are used for lighter weight and ease of installation, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to ultraviolet damage and deterioration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the advantages of different materials by using metal plates (cast iron or steel) for structural durability and strength, while incorporating plastic or rubber protective covers for the tactile domes. This composite approach provides both the reliability of metal and the protective benefits of plastic against UV damage and impact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies protective coatings or covers to the tactile domes before installation to prevent damage from snowplow impacts and UV exposure. This beforehand protection ensures the durability of the tactile surfaces without requiring the entire plate to be made of heavy metal.
3Area of stationary object
If large heavy plates are used to cover entire curb ramps, then area coverage is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in handling and alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the large curb ramp coverage into multiple smaller plate sections. Each small plate can be easily handled and installed by one person, then connected using alignment brackets and connectors to form a continuous surface covering the entire ramp area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from installing single large plates to assembling multiple smaller plates in a modular configuration. This dimensional change in installation approach allows for easier handling and alignment while achieving the same overall coverage area through systematic assembly.
4Area of stationary object
If multiple heavy plates are installed edge-to-edge to cover large areas, then area coverage is improved, but device complexity increases due to alignment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces alignment brackets and connectors as intermediary components that simplify the alignment process when installing multiple plates edge-to-edge. These intermediaries provide built-in alignment features that ensure co-planarity and proper positioning, reducing the complexity of installing multiple heavy plates.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment brackets serve multiple functions: they connect the plates, ensure proper alignment, maintain co-planarity, and facilitate one-person installation. This multi-functionality reduces the overall device complexity by eliminating the need for separate alignment tools and procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
Tactile detection embedment plates used in pedestrian walkways releasably aligned by a bracket on at least one of the embedment plates. The bracket can be mated with a bracket on another plate engage a wedge or wedge parts for a releasable plate assembly connection.