Modular Grave Marker Foundation Support with Removable Vase Insert
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Solution Overview
Problem
Heavy headstones or grave markers often sink or shift due to environmental factors, causing instability and maintenance issues, and existing solutions do not adequately address the need for supporting these markers while also accommodating vases or plant holders.
Innovation Solution
A support device with a rectangular base member made of recycled plastic, featuring a removable insert and vase insert, which provides stabilization and allows for the placement of a vase or planter, preventing sinking or shifting by distributing weight evenly and allowing for easy re-installation and leveling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a foundation support is installed underground beneath the marker, then the stability and uniform appearance of the grave marker is improved, but the device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The foundation support system is divided into separate modular components: a base member with apertures, individual filler elements, and an optional removable insert. This segmentation allows for simplified installation and maintenance while providing stable support for the grave marker.
Solution Approach 2:
The base member is pre-formed with apertures and structural features before installation. The filler elements are prepared in advance, allowing for efficient assembly and installation of the complete foundation support system during the grave marker installation process.
2Strength
If the headstone marker is made of heavy material, then the durability and permanence of the marker is improved, but the tendency to sink or shift in the soil increases
Solution Approach 1:
The foundation support system acts as an intermediary between the heavy grave marker and the soil. It distributes the weight of the durable stone marker across a larger area and provides a stable platform, preventing the marker from sinking or shifting while maintaining its durability and permanence.
3Stability of the object's composition
If cemetery maintenance personnel need to restore shifted markers, then the appearance uniformity is improved, but the time and effort required for maintenance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The modular design with removable inserts allows maintenance personnel to access and adjust individual components without disturbing the entire foundation support system or the grave marker itself, significantly reducing maintenance time and effort.
Solution Approach 2:
The removable insert provides adjustable support that can be easily modified or repositioned to accommodate shifts in the grave marker or changes in soil conditions, allowing for quick maintenance adjustments to maintain uniform appearance.
Data Source
AI summary
A foundation support for stabilizing headstones, grave markers, monuments and the like, to prevent sinking or shifting of a grave marker. The foundation support is formed from a rigid base member having a grid of shaped apertures extending between an upper edge and a lower edge that is filled with earth material. An insert member is releasably secured to the base member, the insert member is replacable with a vase insert member to allow personalization of the memorial.