Chain-Link Fence Cup With Snap-On Locking Tabs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional devices for placing text or advertisements on chain-link fences are prone to falling out due to strong winds, interference from children or adults, and other external forces, leading to design damage and littering, and existing solutions like stapling or using chicken-wire obstruct the view.
Innovation Solution
A cup device with C-shaped locking tabs that snap onto the wires of the chain-link fence, providing secure attachment and resistance to undesirable movements, allowing the device to withstand high winds and maintain the advertisement's visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional cup devices are used for fence advertisements, then installation is simple, but the device falls out easily under wind or external force
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is divided into separate functional components: latch members for initial engagement and locking tabs for secure retention. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall simplicity of installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking tabs are pre-positioned on the cup device to engage with the fence wire before the cup is fully inserted. This preliminary action secures the cup in place during installation and prevents it from falling out under subsequent wind or external forces.
2Reliability
If stapling method is used to prevent cup fall-out, then attachment security improves, but operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cup device incorporates self-securing features through its integrated locking tabs that automatically engage with the fence wire during insertion. This eliminates the need for external stapling tools or complex fastening operations, maintaining ease of installation while ensuring reliable attachment.
3Reliability
If chicken-wire protection is used, then attachment security improves, but visibility of advertisement decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The protective function previously requiring external chicken-wire is extracted and integrated directly into the cup device through locking tabs. This eliminates the need for additional obstructive materials while maintaining attachment security, thereby preserving advertisement visibility.
4Reliability
If locking tabs are added to cup device, then attachment security improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking tabs are merged with the cup device as an integral component rather than a separate attachment. This combining of functions secures the cup reliably while avoiding the complexity of additional separate parts or assembly steps.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is an improved device for insertion in a fence hole of a chain-link fence wherein the improvement comprises a locking tab which allows for a snap-on or clip like member to secure the device to the wires of the chain link fence. The invention comprises an integral four-sided cup able to fit, snap, and stay secure within the holes of chain link fences. The locking tabs comprise a C-shaped design extending out and downward from the lower lip or top edge of the cup and allow the cup to snap on the fence wires. It has been found that once properly secured on the fence wires, the cups can withstand winds greater than 100 mph, in-tact, and remaining secured in the fence hole.