Corrugated Sign Channel Modification Kit for Support Stability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Corrugated signs are prone to instability and damage in harsh weather conditions due to weak support arms, which are limited by the size of the single corrugation channel, and modifying the sign to accommodate stronger support arms is difficult without compromising the appearance or requiring complex tools.
Innovation Solution
A method and kit that involves using a cutting device to combine adjacent channels in a corrugated sign, creating an enlarged channel to securely fit a post-like member, enhancing stability and allowing for larger support arms without compromising the sign's appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a single corrugation channel is used for support arm insertion, then the sign maintains its smooth professional appearance, but the support arm size and strength are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The single corrugation channel is segmented into multiple sub-channels by adding internal partitions. This allows multiple support arms of appropriate sizes to be inserted while maintaining the external smooth appearance of the sign. The segmentation enables stronger support structures without compromising aesthetics.
Solution Approach 2:
Additional internal channels are nested within the existing single corrugation channel structure. The support arms are nested within these channels, which are themselves nested within the outer sign structure. This nested approach allows for stronger support arms while preserving the external appearance.
2Strength
If the channel size is increased to accommodate stronger support arms, then the support strength improves, but the sign appearance is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of enlarging the single channel (which would compromise appearance), the channel is segmented into multiple smaller sub-channels. This allows the external shape to remain smooth and professional while providing internal structure for stronger support arms.
Solution Approach 2:
The internal structure is modified to have different properties than the external appearance. The internal channels are configured for strength and support, while the external surface maintains its smooth, professional appearance. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction between strength and appearance.
3Strength
If existing channels are modified to accommodate larger support arms, then stronger support is achieved, but the modification process becomes complex and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The channel partitioning structure is pre-formed during sign manufacturing, before installation. This preliminary action eliminates the need for complex field modifications and makes the installation process straightforward. The strong support structure is achieved through pre-planned design rather than difficult post-manufacturing modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The partition structures are designed to be simple, inexpensive components that can be easily manufactured and installed. Rather than requiring complex, expensive modification tools and processes, simple partition elements are used to achieve the desired channel configuration.
4Strength
If a channel is affixed to the outer surface of the sign to provide support, then support strength improves, but the smooth professional appearance is ruined
Solution Approach 1:
The support channels are nested within the sign structure, with internal partitions creating sub-channels. The support arms are nested within these channels, which are themselves nested within the outer sign. This nested configuration provides strong support while keeping the external surface smooth and uninterrupted.
Solution Approach 2:
The structural reinforcement is placed locally within the sign body rather than on the external surface. The internal channel partitions provide the necessary strength while the external surface maintains its smooth, professional appearance without visible modifications.
Data Source
AI summary
A corrugated sign modification kit that includes a handheld cutting device with a handle with a first end, a second end, and a handle length separating the first and second ends, a first blade member, and a blade guide member. The first blade member is coupled to the handle and has a cutting edge that faces in a longitudinal direction of the handle, extends outwardly away from the handle, and has a width of less than approximately 1 inch separating its proximal and distal ends. The blade guide member is coupled to the distal end of the first blade member, is orientated in a substantially parallel direction to the longitudinal direction of the handle, and has a distal end protruding to a point in front of the cutting edge so as to define a channel to guide inserted objects within the channel to the cutting edge.