Fence Panel Construction Device with Automated Finishing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for installing fences are labor-intensive and costly, as they require on-site construction, exposing workers and materials to harsh weather conditions, and involve transporting numerous tools and materials to each fence panel location, especially for large fences that span extensive areas.
Innovation Solution
A fence panel construction device that replicates the environment between fence posts, allowing for the off-site or on-site fabrication of custom fence panels by positioning post members and stringers according to predetermined coordinates, and includes a finishing assembly for fastening and trimming boards to fit varying terrain and angles, with a computer system for automated operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If on-site fence construction is performed using traditional methods, then workers can install fences directly at the property location, but labor costs increase and workers are exposed to harsh weather conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-assembling fence panels in a controlled manufacturing environment before transport to the installation site. Stringers, posts, and boards are pre-positioned and fastened together to form complete panels, which are then transported to the property for installation. This eliminates worker exposure to harsh weather during construction while maintaining on-site installation convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the fence construction process into two distinct phases: manufacturing (pre-assembly) and installation (on-site assembly). By dividing the complete fence structure into transportable panel segments that can be pre-built in a controlled environment, the system separates the construction activities from the installation activities, allowing workers to avoid weather exposure during the manufacturing phase while maintaining ease of on-site installation.
2Ease of manufacture
If on-site fence construction is performed, then fences can be built directly at the property, but numerous tools and materials must be transported to each fence panel location
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate fence components (posts, stringers, boards, fasteners) into a single integrated fence panel assembly that is pre-built in a controlled manufacturing environment. By combining all necessary components into one transportable unit, the system eliminates the need to transport numerous separate tools and materials to each fence panel location, while still enabling on-site installation through simple panel assembly.
3Manufacturing precision
If custom fence panels are manufactured to fit specific post positions, then precision and quality improve, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by incorporating adjustable and reconfigurable manufacturing fixtures that can adapt to different post positions and terrain conditions. The manufacturing system uses adjustable jigs and positioning devices that can be dynamically reconfigured for each custom panel, allowing high precision manufacturing without requiring completely different equipment for each configuration. This reduces manufacturing complexity while maintaining the ability to produce custom-fitted panels.
Data Source
AI summary
A fence panel construction device includes a structural member and a pair of post members coupled to the structural member. Each post member includes a pair of attachment devices configured to removably attach a pair of fence stringers to the pair of post members. A pair of actuator mechanisms are coupled to a respective one of the pair of post members to position the pair of post members corresponding to a pair of fence posts on a property. A finishing assembly is coupled to the structural member and includes at least one fastening device and at least one trimming device both operable to move vertically. The finishing assembly is operable to move horizontally while the at least one fastening device fastens fence boards to the pair of fence stringers and at least one trimming device trims the fence boards. A method of making a fence panel is provided.