Modular Light Pole Connector Structure for Rigid Segment Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular light poles face challenges in shipping due to varying lengths and are difficult to assemble, with telescoping solutions requiring larger-than-optimal dimensions and traditional modular poles lacking rigidity until fully secured with fasteners.
Innovation Solution
A modular light pole assembly featuring a mounting connector with longitudinal ribs that allows for easy assembly of uniformly sized segments, providing a strong and lightweight connection using fasteners that draw the connector outward for increased contact area and structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If telescoping pole segments are used to reduce shipping dimensions, then the pole can be shipped in compact form, but the lower-most pole segment must occupy larger-than-optimal dimensions to accommodate nesting
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting connector is designed with a nested structure where the connector body is received within the pole shaft, and the mounting portion extends outward. This nesting approach allows compact storage and shipping while maintaining uniform external dimensions of the pole segments.
2Ease of operation
If modular pole segments are designed for easy assembly, then installation time is reduced, but the connector may lack sufficient rigidity until fully secured with fasteners
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting connector is pre-positioned within the pole shaft before final fastener installation. The connector's nested configuration and contact surfaces provide preliminary alignment and stability, enabling easy assembly while maintaining structural integrity during the fastening process.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector features localized contact surfaces and ribs that provide rigidity and structural support at critical connection points. These localized reinforcement areas ensure sufficient strength during assembly while maintaining overall ease of installation.
3Ease of manufacture
If the mounting connector has uniform cross-sectional dimensions, then manufacturing is simplified, but it cannot be inserted within the pole shaft for compact assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting connector is segmented into distinct functional portions: a body portion with uniform cross-section for manufacturing simplicity, and tapered ends for insertion within the pole shaft. This segmentation allows the connector to benefit from both uniform manufacturing and compact nested assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
A light pole assembly, and a method of assembling a light pole assembly that facilitates securement of multiple light pole segments. The light pole assembly includes a first pole shaft, a second pole shaft, and a mounting connector. The mounting connector includes an internal rib extending from an internal surface of the mounting connector.