Inflatable Rod Base Structure for Portable Stable Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bases for holding sunshades or small flagpoles are either heavy, bulky, and difficult to transport due to their size and weight, even when in a compact state, and often require time-consuming setup with ground spikes or separate weight elements.
Innovation Solution
An expandable base system comprising an inflatable central chamber and connecting chambers that form a sleeve for holding rods, which can be compactly stored and easily transported, with the ability to be weighted down using available materials like water or sand for stability, and designed to accommodate various rod shapes and sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional heavy bases are used, then stability is improved, but portability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The base transitions from a static heavy structure to a dynamic inflatable structure that can change its state between compact transport mode and expanded stable mode. The inflatable chambers allow the base to dynamically adjust its volume and weight distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The physical parameters of the base (volume, shape, weight distribution) are changed by inflating or deflating the chambers. This allows the same structure to provide different levels of stability and portability as needed.
2Stability of the object's composition
If traditional bulky bases are used, then stability is improved, but storage space requirement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The inflatable base can be deflated and stored within its own structure or within a compact container, similar to nested dolls. The chambers collapse into a minimal volume when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The base dynamically changes its volume from a large expanded state providing stability to a compact deflated state for easy storage and transport.
3Stability of the object's composition
If ground spikes are used, then fixation is improved, but setup time deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical system of ground spikes is replaced with an inflatable system that provides fixation through air pressure and weight distribution. The inflatable base can be quickly deployed without manual ground penetration.
Solution Approach 2:
The inflatable base provides its own fixation mechanism through the inflation process itself, eliminating the need for separate fixation elements like ground spikes. The structure self-adjusts to provide stable placement.
4Stability of the object's composition
If separate concrete slabs are used for weighting, then stability is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The weighting function is merged with the base structure itself through the inflatable chambers. The base and weighting mechanism become a single integrated system rather than separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The inflatable chambers serve multiple functions: providing structural support, acting as the weighting mechanism, and enabling portability. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate concrete slabs.
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 expandable base system allows for easy transportation and setup on any ground surface, providing stability and secure holding of rods while minimizing space and weight in the non-expanded state, and can be easily filled or inflated for expanded use.
Implementation Method 1
the central chamber and/or the at least one connecting chamber may be expanded through inflation
Implementation Method 2
the expandable chambers are filled or partially filled with an expandable filler, like a foam, wherein the filler is compressed in the non-expanded state, and expanded in the expanded state
Data Source
AI summary
A base having an expandable central chamber which, in the expanded state, forms a sleeve with an end open to the top for receiving a rod, a base element and at least one expandable connecting chamber connecting the central chamber to the base element.