Collapsible Grave Surround Segmented Kerbing Groove Fixings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing temporary grave surrounds are either DIY creations that are poorly finished and fragile or bespoke products that are labor-intensive, expensive, and difficult to transport due to their large components.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible grave surround composed of elongate, generally planar kerbing elements that can be reconfigured from a compact state to an extended state, using a set of fixings with grooves to receive the kerbing elements, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If DIY grave surrounds are used, then cost is reduced, but durability and finish quality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The grave surround is divided into multiple modular kerbing elements that can be individually manufactured and assembled. Each element is a discrete component with standardized dimensions and connection features, allowing for simplified manufacturing while maintaining overall structural integrity through the modular assembly approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs kerbing elements made from materials and construction methods that are cost-effective and suitable for temporary installation. The elements are designed to be inexpensive enough for single-use or short-term application while still providing adequate durability for the intended temporary period until permanent memorials are installed.
2Reliability
If bespoke grave surrounds are used, then durability is improved, but assembly complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The surround is segmented into standardized modular elements that simplify assembly. Each kerbing element is designed with consistent connection features that enable straightforward assembly without requiring complex procedures or specialized skills, thus reducing assembly complexity while maintaining durability.
Solution Approach 2:
The kerbing elements are designed as universal components that can be used in various positions and configurations within the grave surround system. The standardized elements serve multiple functions (structural support, boundary definition, aesthetic coverage) and can be assembled in different arrangements, reducing the need for specialized components and simplifying the overall assembly process.
3Strength
If large components are used, then structural integrity is improved, but transportability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The grave surround structure is divided into multiple smaller kerbing elements that can be easily transported individually. Each element maintains sufficient structural integrity for its intended function while being small enough to handle and transport without requiring specialized equipment. The modular nature allows elements to be carried by hand or with minimal assistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The kerbing elements incorporate flexible connection mechanisms including hinges and grooves that allow the elements to adapt during assembly and provide structural flexibility. This dynamic design enables the individual elements to maintain structural integrity when assembled while being small and manageable for transport, with the connections providing the necessary strength through proper assembly rather than requiring large monolithic components.
4Adaptability or versatility
If modular systems with many components are used, then adaptability is improved, but assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into a limited number of standardized kerbing element types that provide adaptability through their modular arrangement rather than through a large variety of component types. This segmentation approach maintains versatility while minimizing the total number of different components that need to be handled during assembly, thus reducing assembly time.
Solution Approach 2:
The kerbing elements are pre-formed with integrated connection features including grooves and hinges already attached during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation of connection mechanisms eliminates the need for on-site fabrication or complex joining procedures, allowing for rapid assembly while maintaining adaptability through the modular element design.
Data Source
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AI summary
A grave surround comprises a set of elongate, generally planar kerbing elements. The kerbing elements can be reconfigured by being unfolded or assembled from a compact state, in which the set of kerbing elements is collapsed, into an extended state in which the elements are oriented relative to each other to form at least a portion of the surround. The grave surround further comprises a set of fixings, each fixing of the set comprising at least one groove that is dimensioned to receive one or more of the kerbing elements in edge-on relation. The fixings are thereby attachable to the kerbing elements to lock the relative orientations of the kerbing elements when in the extended state.