Universal Support Beam for Dual-Pitch Bleacher Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bleacher seating systems for sporting and exhibition venues are complex and require many moving parts, affecting their reliability and economy, as they need to accommodate different slope configurations for various events.
Innovation Solution
A bleacher seating system utilizing a unique longitudinal support beam (universal beam) with interchangeable shallow and steep pitch support frame brackets, along with a transitional beam, allowing for self-adjustable conversion between slope configurations without manual adjustment, and a more efficient use of scaffolding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If variable riser seating systems are used to provide variable sight lines for multiple stadium/arena configurations, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The support beam is designed with universal functionality to serve multiple purposes: it can be configured for shallow pitch sections, steep pitch sections, and transitional sections. The beam incorporates multiple attachment surfaces and bracket configurations that allow it to perform different functions without requiring separate specialized components for each pitch type.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic reconfigurability through movable brackets and adjustable attachment mechanisms. The brackets can be repositioned along the support beam to change the pitch configuration, and the beam itself can be oriented in different positions (upside down or right side up) to provide different slope configurations without manual adjustment of individual components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex variable riser systems are implemented, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to manual adjustment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The support beam system is designed to be self-configuring through its inherent structural features. The universal beam with its multiple attachment surfaces and the transitional beam automatically provide the correct configuration when assembled, eliminating the need for operators to manually adjust individual components. The system serves itself through its design rather than requiring external intervention for configuration changes.
3Device complexity
If traditional bleacher support systems are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but adaptability is limited for different pitch requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The support beam is segmented into functional sections with distinct attachment surfaces: a first surface for shallow pitch support frame brackets, a second opposite surface for steep pitch support frame brackets, and transitional sections. This segmentation allows each part of the beam to serve a specific pitch configuration while maintaining overall structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The support beam utilizes asymmetric design with different bracket attachment configurations on opposite surfaces. The first surface has brackets oriented for shallow pitch sections while the second surface has brackets oriented for steep pitch sections. This asymmetric configuration allows the same beam to provide different slope configurations without requiring symmetric duplication of components.
Data Source
AI summary
This two pitch beam is for a bleacher support system in which the slope of its understructure is a combination of a shallow pitch section and a steep pitch section. The unique longitudinal support beam is used for both the shallow pitch and steep pitch sections.