Mounted platform assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for mounting toy trains around Christmas trees are limited to specific track and train combinations, lack versatility, and do not allow for easy augmentation with additional features or obstruction clearance from tree branches.
Innovation Solution
A platform assembly that secures to a tree or post using a center clamp with adjustable segments, allowing for horizontal alignment and accommodating various track systems, with optional support brackets and accessories like tunnel and track extensions for enhanced decoration and branch support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a clamp is secured to the upright pole or tree trunk with struts connected radially to the track, then the track can be mounted around the tree, but the system is limited to use with a particular track and train combination and lacks versatility
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate functional components: a centre clamp assembly that attaches to the tree trunk, radial struts that provide support, and a platform that mounts the track. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and facilitates compatibility with different track systems while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The centre clamp assembly serves multiple functions: securing the platform to the tree trunk, providing adjustment mechanisms for horizontal alignment, and supporting the radial struts. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, enhancing versatility across different track and train combinations without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the track is mounted directly around the tree, then the train can orbit the tree, but tree branches may obstruct or interfere with the orbiting vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The platform is positioned at a specific radial distance from the tree trunk, creating a horizontal dimension that separates the track from obstructing branches. This dimensional arrangement allows the track to clear branches while maintaining a compact overall structure, optimizing both clearance and space utilization.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustment means are included in the clamp to adjust pitch and roll, then the platform can be oriented horizontally on trees of various diameters, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly incorporates adjustable components that allow dynamic adaptation to different tree trunk diameters and orientations. The adjustment mechanism enables the platform to be leveled horizontally by modifying the position of support points, providing versatility across various installation scenarios without requiring a completely different mounting system for each case.
Data Source
Figure 1a~2a
Figure 1b~2b
Figure 1c~2c
AI summary
The present invention describes a platform assembly having a centre clamp (2) formed from at least two clamp segments (25), a platform (1) formed from multiple platform segments (15) fixed together and a plurality of brackets (6) mounted into the centre clamp (2) at one end and supporting the platform (1) at the other end. The centre clamp (2) is formed from at least two clamp segments (25), which are joined together around a post or trunk (70) and once joined together, the hole in the centre of the clamp (2) has clearance around the post or trunk (70), so that the clamp (2) can be used on multiple diameters. The clamp (2) includes adjustment means (5, U, L) that can be operated to adjust the pitch and roll of the platform (1, 50) to achieve its horizontal position before the clamp (2) is secured to the trunk or post (70) to fix this position.