Universal Foundation Stone with Multi-Shape Cavities
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foundation stones for masts, posts, or rods are complex and expensive, making it difficult and time-consuming to align and secure fence posts, especially for amateurs and do-it-yourselfers, with a high risk of accidental displacement due to slow-setting concrete.
Innovation Solution
A universal foundation stone with multiple receiving cavities of varying cross-sectional shapes and sizes, featuring alignment aids and a secure peripheral design to simplify alignment and prevent twisting, allowing easy insertion and secure holding of different types of masts, posts, or rods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pressure ring with integrated rubber is used to clamp the post, then the post is securely fastened, but the device becomes complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex pressure ring with integrated rubber from the foundation design. Instead, it uses a simple recess in the foundation stone that directly receives and secures the post, achieving secure fastening without the complicated clamping mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The foundation stone is designed with a universal recess that can accommodate different types of posts (wooden, metal, plastic) with varying cross-sections. This multi-functional design replaces the specialized pressure ring system, simplifying the overall device while maintaining secure fastening across multiple post types.
2Reliability
If concrete is used to fill the hole, then the post is anchored, but the slow setting process creates high risk of accidental displacement
Solution Approach 1:
The foundation stone is pre-formed with an integrated recess that provides immediate mechanical support and alignment for the post. This preliminary structural preparation allows the post to be securely positioned before the concrete fully sets, reducing the risk of displacement during the setting process.
Solution Approach 2:
The recess in the foundation stone acts as a pre-prepared cushioning structure that cradles and protects the post from accidental displacement. This beforehand preparation ensures the post remains stable and protected during the vulnerable period when concrete is still setting.
3Productivity
If multiple fence posts are aligned using traditional methods, then the fence structure is achieved, but the alignment process becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The foundation stone includes integrated alignment aids (such as molded-in guides or reference marks) that enable the post to be automatically aligned with adjacent posts. This self-aligning feature eliminates the need for complex measurement and adjustment procedures, making the alignment process intuitive and straightforward for users of all skill levels.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a universal foundation stone is designed to accommodate different post types, then versatility is achieved, but the design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The foundation stone features a universally designed recess with sufficient dimensions and appropriate geometry to accommodate various post types (round, square, rectangular) made from different materials. This single universal design replaces the need for multiple specialized foundation types, achieving versatility without increasing complexity.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
Foundation stone (1) for receiving masts, posts, poles or the like, which can be inserted into a receiving cavity penetrating the foundation stone (1), wherein the foundation stone (1), which has a base surface (2), a top surface (3) and at least one circumferential surface, is preferably made of concrete or the like and provides several receiving cavities (8, 9, 10, 11) extending through the foundation stone (1) from the top surface (3) to the base surface (2) for the masts, posts, poles or the like, wherein the receiving cavities (8, 9, 10, 11) have different cross-sectional shapes and/or sizes for different types of masts, posts, poles or the like.