Hydrophobic Post Insert Resists Moisture and Decomposition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fence construction methods, particularly the use of concrete to secure post members, lead to decomposition and breakage of wooden posts, making replacement difficult and costly, and hinder design changes or adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A post support device with a rigid insert portion made from hydrophobic materials, such as polyethylene, that provides adjustable mounting for post members, allowing for easy installation, adjustment, and replacement without the need for concrete removal, using a tapered design and granular material for securement and adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If post members are mounted in concrete, then the post members are securely fixed and stable, but the post members become difficult to replace and promote decomposition
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the mounting system into separate components: a reusable rigid insert portion mounted in concrete and a replaceable post member. The insert portion contains a cavity that receives the post member, allowing the post member to be removed and replaced without disturbing the concrete foundation. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by maintaining securement strength through the concrete- insert connection while enabling easy replacement of the post member itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid insert portion acts as an intermediary between the concrete foundation and the post member. It provides a stable mounting interface that preserves the original spacing and alignment while allowing the post member to be easily removed and replaced. The insert portion transfers loads between the post member and concrete, maintaining structural integrity while facilitating replacement.
2Stability of the object's composition
If post members are mounted in concrete, then the installation is stable and maintains spacing, but design changes become prohibitively expensive
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the permanent concrete foundation from the replaceable post member through the rigid insert portion, the system allows design changes (such as replacing wood posts with metal posts) without disturbing the concrete foundation. The insert portion remains in place, preserving spacing and alignment, while only the post member needs to be replaced.
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid insert portion is pre-installed in the concrete foundation during initial construction, establishing the correct spacing and alignment. This preliminary action allows for easy future replacements or design changes, as the insert portion is already in position and only the post member needs to be swapped.
3Strength
If post members are mounted in concrete, then adequate support is provided, but moisture ingress promotes decomposition
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid insert portion serves as a moisture barrier between the concrete foundation and the post member. It prevents water and moisture from wicking up the post member through capillary action, thereby reducing decomposition. The insert portion maintains structural support while blocking the harmful moisture pathway.
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines different materials with complementary properties: concrete for foundational strength, rigid insert portion material (such as metal or treated wood) for moisture resistance and structural support, and the post member material for above-ground functionality. This composite approach addresses both support strength and moisture protection requirements.
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 strong and stable post member installations resistant to lateral forces while allowing for easy replacement and design changes, maintaining the original spacing and aesthetic of the fence, reducing wear and tear, and preventing moisture ingress.
Implementation Method 1
The rigid insert portion is constructed from a moldable hydrophobic material, such as high-or-low-density polyethylene, which prevents the ingress of water thereby lessening decomposition.
Data Source
AI summary
A post support device comprising a rigid insert portion having a body interposed between a top opening and a bottom end, said body defining a space therein. A post member is releasably secured in the rigid insert portion with a granular material, in combination with retainer members and a sealant portion. In the event the post member decomposes or breaks, the post member may be replaced by removing the sealant portion, retainer members, and the post member. The post support device enables the user to replace post members while maintaining the original spacing of the fence structure.