Interlocking Channel Support for Variable Concrete Trench Drain Widths
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current channel supports made of steel have fixed widths and cannot be adjusted to accommodate different channel widths, necessitating a need for a flexible and adjustable support system.
Innovation Solution
A channel support assembly comprising a pair of identical supports with latches, struts, and adjustable screws that can be interlocked into various positions to fit different channel widths, secured with locking screws.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If fixed-width steel channel supports are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different channel widths is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The channel support is divided into multiple modular components including adjustable legs, interchangeable width adapters, and segmented support sections. This segmentation allows the support system to be configured in different widths to accommodate various channel sizes while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized modular parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The channel support incorporates adjustable and movable components such as telescopic legs with multiple position holes, rotatable width adapters, and flexible positioning mechanisms. These dynamic elements enable the support structure to adapt to different channel widths and heights without requiring multiple fixed-width support types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fixed-width support types are manufactured, then adaptability to different channel widths is achieved, but device complexity and inventory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal channel support design incorporates multiple functions through interchangeable width adapters and adjustable positioning mechanisms. This universal support can accommodate various channel widths and heights using the same basic structure with different adapter configurations, eliminating the need to manufacture and maintain multiple specialized support types.
Solution Approach 2:
The channel support system uses nested modular components where width adapters, positioning elements, and adjustment mechanisms are integrated within a standardized support framework. Smaller adapter components nest within the main support structure, allowing multiple configuration options to be stored and transported efficiently without increasing overall system complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable channel supports with multiple components are used, then adaptability to different channel widths is improved, but ease of operation and assembly time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The channel support system incorporates pre-configured width adapters and pre-marked positioning holes that are prepared in advance during manufacturing. The adapters come pre-assembled with connection elements, and the support structure includes pre-drilled alignment holes and pre-positioned mounting features, allowing field assembly to be completed quickly by simply connecting pre-prepared components rather than assembling multiple individual parts.
Data Source
AI summary
A channel support assembly formed by a pair of interlocking supports. The supports each have a base with a pair of latches including a series of crenelations a hook. A strut extends from the base between the pair of latches. The base includes a boss formed therethrough that has a throughbore that is dimensioned to accommodate a rod of rebar. A stepless height adjustment may be carried out by using a side adjusting screw that is clamped to the boss of support. The pair of supports may be interlocked into one of several positions based on interlocking between the hooks of each of the pair of latches interlocks with a corresponding one of the series of crenelations.