Adjustable Pylon Clamp Assembly for Uneven Ground Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support structures for items like heliostats and wind turbines are costly and inefficient, particularly on undulating ground, due to the need for welding and inadequate stability adjustments according to changing environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
A height-adjustable pylon and frame assembly with tubular frame members and a fastener assembly that allows for axial locking and vertical adjustment of pylons, using a single elongate fastener with an arcuate saddle portion and pre-formed contact surfaces, enabling secure positioning on uneven surfaces without welding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If welding is used to secure pylons to frame members, then structural strength and stability are improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the welding process (thermal/mechanical system) with a mechanical fastening system using clamps and fasteners. The clamp assembly applies mechanical pressure to secure the pylon to the frame member through friction and geometric interlocking, eliminating the need for welding operations, specialized equipment, and post-weld corrosion protection.
2Ease of manufacture
If a fixed-height pylon structure is used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability to undulating terrain and environmental changes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic adjustment mechanism that allows the pylon height to be modified after installation. The adjustable support structure includes movable components and locking mechanisms that enable the system to adapt to varying terrain conditions and environmental requirements, transitioning from a static fixed-height design to a dynamic adjustable configuration.
3Stability of the object's composition
If multiple pylons are arranged in a rigid triangular framework, then structural stability is improved, but ability to accommodate ground undulations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the rigid triangular framework into independent adjustable units. Each pylon is individually mounted on the frame members with independent adjustment capabilities, allowing each segment to adapt to local ground conditions while maintaining overall structural stability through the interconnected frame system.
4Reliability
If welding and corrosion protection are applied to support structures, then durability and reliability are improved, but capital expenditure and maintenance complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces welding (which creates vulnerable corrosion zones) with mechanical fastening systems. The clamp and fastener assembly creates connection points that do not require penetration or fusion, thereby eliminating the need for post-weld corrosion protection treatments and reducing long-term maintenance complexity while maintaining structural reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A height adjustable pylon and supporting frame assembly is provided. The frame includes two frame members meeting at a corner with the frame members being generally co-planar and the pylon being urged into the corner so as to extend at generally right angles to a plane including the two frame members. A fastener assembly has two end portions each anchored relative its associated frame member so as to extend transversely to it. The fastener assembly includes an intermediate saddle portion engaging a surface of the pylon that is directed outwardly relative to the corner with the pylon being urged into the corner when the fastener assembly is tightened to engage the pylon and lock it axially relative to the frame members in a selected position. Preferably, the frame members each form two upper and two lower frame members of two trusses. Lower ends of the pylons may support the assembly.