Portable Light-Emitting Stage with Rotatable Latch Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable stage platforms with integrated lighting or video elements are complex and time-consuming to assemble and disassemble, requiring technical skill and using cumbersome threaded connections, which complicates transportation and weight support.
Innovation Solution
A portable light-emitting stage component with a support portion featuring rotatable latch members and connectors that allow easy assembly and disassembly without tools, using a clamping mechanism to secure adjacent components, eliminating the need for threaded bolts or screws.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If threaded bolts or screws are used to connect stage components, then the structure can support large weight, but the assembly and disassembly time and labor increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The stage structure is divided into modular components (deck sections, support portions, lighting components) that can be independently assembled and disassembled. Each module maintains structural integrity through the connector design while enabling rapid deployment without threaded fasteners.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional threaded bolt/screw mechanical fastening system with a cam-actuated connector system. The cam mechanism converts rotational motion into linear clamping force, providing strong connections without requiring threading operations, thereby dramatically reducing assembly time while maintaining weight support capacity.
2Reliability
If conventional threaded connections are used, then reliable connection is achieved, but the complexity of assembly increases and technical skill is required
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system is designed to be self-aligning and self-securing. The cam mechanism automatically engages with the receiving member and maintains constant clamping pressure, eliminating the need for operators to understand threading procedures or use specialized tools. The design incorporates features that guide proper assembly without requiring technical expertise.
3Illumination intensity
If integrated lighting components are added to portable stages, then visual performance is enhanced, but the weight and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting components are integrated directly into the support portions of the stage structure. By merging the lighting function with the structural support function, the patent eliminates the need for separate lighting rigs and mounting hardware, thereby enhancing visual performance without proportionally increasing overall weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The support portions serve multiple functions: they provide structural support for the deck, contain and position lighting elements, and incorporate the connector mechanisms for assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of components and overall system weight while maintaining lighting capabilities.
4Adaptability or versatility
If more lighting and video components are integrated, then performance capability is improved, but the difficulty of assembly and disassembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the stage into modular components with integrated lighting and video elements, each module can be assembled independently using the standardized connector system. This segmentation allows complex performance capabilities to be built from simple, easy-to-assemble modules, maintaining ease of operation despite enhanced functionality.
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
Enables rapid assembly and disassembly with minimal skill, allowing the stage to be broken down into small components for easy transportation and supporting significant weight, while providing a stable and visually engaging platform for theatrical performances.
Implementation Method 1
The latch member is rotatable about an axis that is substantially coplanar or substantially parallel with the axis of rotation of the rotatable latch member. The rotatable latch members and receiving members are arranged and disposed to clampingly secure the adjacent support portions together.
Implementation Method 2
The rotatable latch members and receiving members are arranged and disposed to clampingly secure the adjacent support portions together.
Implementation Method 3
The support portion includes at least one light-producing element. The at least one light-producing element is arranged and disposed to direct light through the deck.
Data Source
AI summary
A portable light-emitting stage component including a deck supported by a support portion comprising at least one light-producing element, a first side, a second side substantially parallel the first side, a first end connected to the first side and the second side, and a second end substantially parallel the first end, the second end connected to the first side and the second side. The at least one light-producing element directs light through the deck. The first side includes a first rotatable latch member comprising a first hook. The first side and the axis of rotation of the first rotatable latch member are substantially coplanar or parallel. The second side includes a first receiving member comprising a first post. The support portion includes a protrusion protruding from a side or end selected from the group consisting of the first side, the second side, the first end, and the second end.