Hinged Panel Clamping Post for Safer Balcony Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing French-style balconies and sunshades face challenges in safe and easy installation due to heavy and bulky panels, with a risk of accidental falls during handling and fixing, particularly when installed at height, and require durable and strong support structures to ensure user safety.
Innovation Solution
A support structure comprising a base and a flap with a hinged joint, featuring linear compression joints and a corner locking mechanism that clamps the panel securely, allowing for faster and simpler installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the panel is fixed by inserting it between two deformable polymer joints that are compressed during insertion, then the panel can be secured to the wall, but the panel insertion is subject to stress, requiring forceful handling and thus increasing the likelihood of accidental falls
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is pre-assembled with the deformable polymer joints and compression members in place before the panel is inserted. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for forceful handling during installation, as the panel simply needs to be inserted into the pre-configured support structure rather than forcing it between compressed joints.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure acts as an intermediary between the wall and the panel. Instead of directly inserting the panel between compressed polymer joints attached to the wall, the support structure provides a mechanical interface that holds the panel securely while distributing forces evenly, eliminating stress concentration and the need for forceful insertion.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the balcony is located at a height, then the view and space are improved, but a falling panel can be very dangerous for people below, in addition to potentially damaging the panel
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure incorporates deformable polymer joints and compression members that provide gradual, controlled engagement with the panel. This cushioning effect prevents sudden failures or catastrophic panel drops, as the mechanical connection develops progressively through controlled compression rather than abrupt engagement, reducing the risk of dangerous falls even at height.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure uses replaceable compression members and polymer joints that can be easily replaced if damaged. Rather than risking panel failure at height, these sacrificial components provide a safety margin, allowing the system to maintain reliability even after minor failures without compromising panel security or requiring complex repair procedures.
3Strength
If the panels are heavy and bulky, then the structural strength is improved, but the handling and fixing is complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into modular components including separate support elements, compression members, and polymer joints that can be assembled incrementally. This segmentation allows the heavy panel to be supported by multiple distributed connection points rather than requiring single-point lifting or manipulation, making handling easier while maintaining the panel's structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure incorporates movable and adjustable elements such as the deformable polymer joints and compression members that can adapt to the panel's weight and dimensions. These dynamic components allow the support structure to flex and accommodate the heavy panel during installation, reducing the effort required to position and secure the panel compared to rigid, fixed-geometry support systems.
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 solution provides a safer and more efficient installation process by minimizing handling steps and reducing the risk of panel falls, ensuring durability and stability through hyperstatic clamping, and reducing the need for extensive screwing and drilling.
Implementation Method 1
The linear compression joints compress a panel pinched between the base and the flap in the assembled state
Implementation Method 2
a corner, having an insert, inserted at the level of the hinge between the base and the flap in the assembled state, which, when inserted, locks said hinge in a position pinching the panel
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~7
AI summary
The invention relates to a post for securing a panel (1), comprising: - a base (5) having two faces (5a, 5b) that are substantially orthogonal to each other, including: * one face (5a) that is parallel to the plane of the panel (1) and that carries, at its free end, a linear compression seal (13), and * one face (5b) orthogonal to the plane of the panel (1); - a flap (7) that is hingedly connected with respect to the base (5) at the free end of the face orthogonal to the plane of the panel and that carries, at its end opposite the hinge (51, 71), a complementary compressive linear seal (13); and - a wedge (9) that has an insert (11), is inserted at the hinge (51, 71) between the base (5) and the flap (7) in the assembled state and, when inserted, locks said hinge (51, 71) in a position that clamps the panel (1).