Flexible Flag Stopper for Universal Pole Retention

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional flag stoppers are often heavy, complex, and not easily adaptable to flagpoles of varying sizes and orientations, posing a risk of flags detaching during windy conditions and requiring complex assembly and setup.

Innovation Solution

A compact, lightweight flag stopper with elongated planar legs that flex to securely fit flagpoles of different diameters, featuring tiered apertures and projections for universal application, allowing easy adjustment and detachment without complex tools, and constructed from materials like plastic or steel for durability and portability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional flag stoppers are used, then flag retention is achieved, but the devices are heavy and complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveflag retentionVSAvoidconstruction complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The flag stopper is divided into distinct functional segments: a retention member with flag-retaining surfaces, a flagpole-engaging member with gripping surfaces, and connection elements. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The flag stopper is designed as a universal device that can be attached to flagpoles of various diameters and orientations through adjustable engagement mechanisms, while simultaneously providing reliable flag retention through multiple contact surfaces

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If conventional flag stoppers are used, then flag retention is achieved, but the devices are not easily adaptable to flagpoles of varying sizes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveflag retentionVSAvoidadaptability to varying flagpole sizes

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The flag stopper incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements that allow it to dynamically adapt to different flagpole diameters and orientations. The engagement mechanisms can be positioned at various locations along the flagpole, and the retaining surfaces can be oriented to match different pole angles

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The device is designed as a universal flag stopper that can accommodate flagpoles of varying sizes and orientations through adjustable engagement mechanisms and reconfigurable retention surfaces, eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If conventional flag stoppers are used, then flag retention is achieved, but complex assembly and setup are required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveflag retentionVSAvoidease of assembly and setup

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The flag stopper is designed for self-installation without requiring specialized tools or complex assembly procedures. The engagement mechanisms are configured to be attached directly to the flagpole through simple fastening actions, and the flag retention surfaces are pre-positioned for immediate functionality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The flag stopper components are pre-configured and pre-positioned during manufacturing, with engagement surfaces and retention elements already aligned for optimal performance. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex field assembly and setup procedures

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The flag stopper effectively retains flags on flagpoles of various sizes and orientations, preventing axial and lateral movement during windy conditions, while being easy to position, reposition, and manufacture, offering a cost-effective and efficient solution for flag retention.

Implementation Method 1

the pair of elongated legs are configured to flex longitudinally away from each other to provide passage for a flagpole and then retract back into position so as to contract around the flagpole

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10121398B2Flag stopper

Publication Date: 2018.11.06 MOORE CYNTHIA MARIE

AI summary

The present disclosure provides for a flag stopper that is used in conjunction with a flagpole from which a flag, banner, or other fabric cloth hangs. The flag stopper may be fabricated from a sheet of flexible material that can be removably connected to a flagpole. The flag stopper preferably comprises a planar body having a pair of coplanar legs preferably configured to flex in opposing directions to facilitate its removable connection and firm engagement with a flagpole. When connected to a flagpole, the preferred flag stopper radially extends outwardly from the flagpole, and a flag that is mounted on the flagpole will be forced to remain in such position, thereby preventing the flag from flying off the flagpole.