Adjustable Wedge Deck Panel for Curved Modular Platforms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modular stage systems require custom-sized wedge sections for non-regular angles, limiting design flexibility and stability, especially when incorporating curved runways.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable wedge deck panel with moveable frames and intermeshing combs that allow angular adjustment between 22.5 to 45 degrees, minimizing gaps and incorporating magnetic panels for alignment and stability, enabling integration into existing modular platforms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed wedge sections of standard angles (30-degree and 45-degree arc sectors) are provided, then the stage system can incorporate curved sections, but the stage design is limited and custom-sized wedge sections are required for non-regular angles
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge deck panel incorporates a moveable frame that can be adjusted to different angular positions, transforming a static fixed-angle component into a dynamic adjustable component. This allows a single panel type to replace multiple custom-sized wedge sections, enabling non-regular angles without requiring custom manufacturing while maintaining design flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable wedge deck panel is designed to perform multiple functions: it can be configured to create various angular deviations (including but not limited to 30-degree and 45-degree arcs) and can be used in different positions within the modular stage system. This universal component replaces the need for multiple specialized wedge sections, reducing device complexity while maintaining versatility
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom-sized wedge sections are produced to implement non-regular angles, then the desired angular change can be achieved, but the device complexity increases and assembly becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of manufacturing different custom-sized wedge sections for various angles, the invention provides a single wedge panel with a moveable frame that can be adjusted to achieve different angular deviations. This dynamic adjustment capability eliminates the need for custom manufacturing while maintaining the ability to implement non-regular angles
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge panel allows changes in the angular parameter through mechanical adjustment of the moveable frame rather than through custom manufacturing. The frame can be positioned at different angles and locked in place, enabling the same physical component to achieve various angular configurations without requiring custom-sized sections
3Adaptability or versatility
If the wedge panel uses moveable frames for angular adjustment, then design flexibility is enhanced, but the platform stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The moveable frame is designed to be adjustable during configuration but stable during use. Once the desired angular position is achieved, the frame can be locked in place, providing both the flexibility to adjust angles and the stability needed for platform integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge panel is divided into separate modular components including the moveable frame and platform portion. This segmentation allows the frame to be adjusted independently to achieve the desired angle, while the platform portion remains stable and provides a fixed surface. The modular design enables adjustment without compromising overall structural stability
4Adaptability or versatility
If the frames are made moveable between angular positions, then the same panel module can be used for various curved sweeps, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism uses a moveable frame that can be positioned at different angular locations and locked in place. This dynamic component allows a single panel module to achieve various curved sweeps (22.5 to 45 degrees) without requiring complex mechanisms, as the frame simply needs to pivot and lock at predetermined positions
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a stable, durable, and easily assembled platform surface that can span desired angles without custom sections, enhancing design flexibility and safety by reducing tripping hazards.
Implementation Method 1
each receiver member including a magnetic panel configured to magnetically attract a receiving member on an adjacent frame member to aid in platform system assembly
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable wedge panel for a modular platform system includes a first frame having a first receiver member and a first platform portion, a second frame having second receiver member and a second platform deck portion, wherein the frames are supportable above a surface by support members engaged in the first and second receiver members. The first and second frame members are angularly adjustable between a first angular position and a second angular position, the platform portions being positioned between the frames to define a support surface in the form of an annular sector having a sector angle. The adjustable wedge panel module may be joined to other modular platform assemblies, whether rectangular or other adjustable wedge panels, to create curved platforms. The adjustability of the wedge panel module allows a single module to replace multiple fixed-angle wedge panels.