Concealed Fastening System for Grave Markers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Grave markers for lawn crypts are vulnerable to removal by vandals and thieves due to the lack of a securing mechanism, requiring excavation for changes or additions, which is inefficient and insecure.
Innovation Solution
A grave marker assembly with a fastening system that allows easy mounting and removal while securing the marker to a lawn crypt lid using a channel and retainer system, incorporating a drainage function and decorative frame, and featuring concealed fastening elements to prevent unauthorized removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the grave marker is set in soil without a securing mechanism, then the marker can be easily installed and accessed, but the marker can be easily removed by vandals and thieves
Solution Approach 1:
The grave marker system is divided into separate components: a marker body, a base structure, and a fastening mechanism. This segmentation allows the marker to be easily installed as a complete unit while providing secure fastening options to prevent removal by vandals and thieves.
Solution Approach 2:
A base structure serves as an intermediary between the marker and the ground or crypt lid. This base incorporates fastening mechanisms (such as anchors, screws, or clips) that secure the marker in place, preventing theft while maintaining ease of installation. The base acts as a mediator that provides both stability and security.
2Ease of operation
If the grave marker is set in soil with no securing mechanism, then the marker can be accessed for changes or additions, but the marker must be removed by excavating the surrounding earth
Solution Approach 1:
The marker system is segmented into a removable marker body and a permanent base structure. This allows the marker to be easily accessed, changed, or added to by simply removing the marker body from the base, eliminating the need for time-consuming excavation and reinstallation procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening mechanism is designed to be dynamically adjustable, allowing the marker to be easily removed and reinstalled without permanent damage to the base or surrounding ground. This dynamic design enables quick changes and additions while maintaining the integrity of the installation site.
3Reliability
If a fastening system is added to secure the marker, then the marker cannot be easily removed by vandals and thieves, but the complexity of the assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening mechanism is extracted as a separate, modular component within the base structure. This allows the security feature to be added without significantly increasing overall complexity, as the fastening elements can be independently installed and removed from the base.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening system uses simple, inexpensive fastening elements (such as screws, clips, or anchors) that can be easily installed and removed. These simple components provide effective security without adding complex mechanisms, keeping the overall system straightforward and manageable.
4Ease of operation
If the fastening mechanism is made accessible for easy removal, then the marker can be easily accessed for changes, but the security against vandalism is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Different parts of the fastening system have different accessibility characteristics. The base structure and fastening mechanisms are designed to be accessible to authorized personnel for legitimate changes, while the overall system remains secure against unauthorized removal by vandals and thieves.
Solution Approach 2:
The base structure serves as an intermediary that provides secure fastening while maintaining controlled accessibility. The fastening mechanisms are designed to be accessible for legitimate changes under specific conditions, while the overall system remains secure against unauthorized removal.
Data Source
AI summary
A grave marker assembly that can be removably mounted and secured to a support surface such as a lawn crypt lid. The grave marker assembly has a fastening system that is not exposed to view and yet allows the grave marker to be easily installed and removed. The fastening system includes a channel and interior opening formed on a base member that is adapted to receive a fastener. The fastener in turn is adapted to be inserted into an opening formed on the crypt lid or other support surface. The assembly further includes a multi-function frame disposed along the outer periphery of the memorial marker that can serve as a decorative feature and draining functions.