Glass Panel Winch Positioning for Ice Rink Board Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for replacing glass panels in ice rinks are labor-intensive and require multiple people or heavy machinery, lacking an efficient and safe solution for installation and removal.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising a base portion, a back support structure, and a glass adjustment system that allows for the safe and efficient installation and removal of glass panels, utilizing a winch and pulley system to raise and lower the panels into and out of U-shaped channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional methods using multiple people on ladders are used to replace glass, then the glass can be removed and installed, but the process is labor-intensive and requires multiple workers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mechanical apparatus with a winch system, pulleys, and support structures as an intermediary device between the workers and the glass panel. This apparatus mechanically assists in lifting, positioning, and installing the glass, reducing the need for multiple workers to manually handle the heavy panel while improving replacement efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical system of multiple workers physically lifting and positioning glass with a winch-based mechanical system. The winch drum, cable, and pulley assembly automate the lifting and positioning functions, substituting human physical effort with a dedicated mechanical device
2Ease of operation
If a fork lift with attachment is used to remove and install glass, then the process requires less manual labor, but heavy machinery is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by designing a specialized apparatus with specific components (winch drum, cable, pulleys, support structures) tailored for glass handling tasks. Rather than using general-purpose heavy machinery like a fork lift, the apparatus is locally optimized for the specific function of glass removal and installation, reducing the need for heavy equipment while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions: it can remove glass panels, install new glass panels, and potentially handle different sizes of glass. This multi-functionality replaces the need for specialized heavy machinery while maintaining operational ease, as the same apparatus handles various glass replacement tasks
3Productivity
If glass panels are manually handled without proper support, then installation can proceed, but safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus provides preliminary support and secure attachment to the glass panel before the actual installation or removal action takes place. The winch system and support structures hold the glass securely during the entire operation, ensuring safety is established in advance before any potentially dangerous manual handling is required
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical apparatus acts as a safe intermediary between the workers and the heavy glass panel. It provides controlled lifting, positioning, and support functions that eliminate the need for workers to manually handle the glass, thereby improving both safety and installation speed by reducing manual intervention
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
Enables single-person operation with enhanced safety and efficiency, reducing the need for multiple workers or heavy machinery, and allows for precise positioning and secure fastening of glass panels.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a winch and pulley system to raise and lower the panels into and out of U-shaped channels
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for installing and removing glass panels and methods of using the apparatus are disclosed. The apparatus includes a base portion, a back support structure secured to the base portion, and a glass adjustment system moveably coupled to the back support structure. Methods for using the apparatus to install and remove glass panels from, for example, ice rink boards, are also disclosed.