Banner Support System with Modular End Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing banner support systems using t-posts are prone to sagging under wind load, leading to reduced readability and potential damage, and the use of guy-wires introduces unsightly and difficult-to-install stabilization issues.
Innovation Solution
A banner support system comprising end connectors with apertures and tabs that securely engage t-posts, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly, and a retainer assembly to maintain the connectors in a locked position, preventing t-post movement and providing stable support for banners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If guy-wires are used to stabilize the t-posts, then the banner stability under wind load is improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to difficult installation and maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is divided into separate modular components: end connectors that attach to t-posts, an elongate support structure connecting the end connectors, and a banner attachment mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be installed independently without requiring complex guy-wire systems, improving both stability and installation ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The end connectors serve as intermediary elements between the t-posts and the elongate support structure. These connectors provide a standardized interface that simplifies assembly and disassembly, eliminating the need for difficult-to-install guy-wires while maintaining structural stability under wind load.
2Stability of the object's composition
If guy-wires are used to stabilize the t-posts, then the banner stability under wind load is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components and assembly steps
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into simple, standardized components (end connectors, elongate support structure, banner attachment points) that can be assembled from common hardware. This reduces overall system complexity compared to complex guy-wire stabilization systems while maintaining banner stability under wind load.
Solution Approach 2:
The end connectors serve multiple functions: they attach to the t-posts, connect to the elongate support structure, and provide adjustment capability. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall system while maintaining stability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the banner support system is made rigid to maintain stability under wind load, then the banner stability is improved, but the ease of manufacture and assembly deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The end connectors incorporate adjustable features that allow the support system to adapt to different installation conditions and banner sizes. This dynamic adjustability simplifies assembly and manufacturing while maintaining stability under wind load, as the system can be configured for specific applications rather than requiring a rigid one-size-fits-all design.
Solution Approach 2:
The support system uses segmented, modular components that can be easily manufactured and assembled. The end connectors and elongate support structure are separate pieces that connect through standardized interfaces, making the system easier to manufacture and assemble while maintaining the rigidity needed for wind load stability.
Data Source
AI summary
Banner supports and processes for making and using same. In some examples, a banner support can include at least one end connector having body which defines an aperture that is sized to allow a t-post to extend through the aperture, the end connector including at least one tab and an elongate support structure configured for connecting to a top edge of a banner and having a strength capable at least of supporting the banner, the support structure having an end with an end opening that is configured to selectively receive the end connector tab for attaching the end connector to the support structure in a locked position, and configured to selectively release the tab to at least partially detach the end connector from the support structure.