Magnetic Modular Support Assembly for Adjustable Height

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing modular support assemblies for decorative or useful items lack adaptability in height and design to accommodate various objects, limiting their versatility and flexibility in use.

Innovation Solution

A modular support assembly composed of separable modules held together by magnetic force attraction, allowing for adjustable height and configuration by adding or removing modules, with the option to include decorative features and lighting, enabling the assembly to be customized for different objects and settings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If existing support assemblies are used, then structural support is provided, but adaptability to different objects and heights is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidcomplexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support assembly is divided into multiple separable modules that can be independently configured. Each module contains magnetic elements for connection, and the modular design allows the assembly to be customized for different objects and heights by selecting and arranging appropriate modules, directly resolving the adaptability limitation while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The support assembly transitions from a fixed, static structure to a dynamic, reconfigurable system. Modules can be added, removed, or rearranged to change the assembly's height and configuration, enabling adaptation to different objects while the magnetic connection mechanism provides stable assembly during use

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If modular design with magnetic connection is implemented, then adaptability and ease of adjustment are improved, but connection strength and structural integrity may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of adjustmentVSAvoidconnection strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

Traditional mechanical connection methods (screws, clips, or friction-fit systems) are replaced with magnetic attraction forces. This substitution provides sufficient connection strength to support various objects while enabling easy assembly and disassembly through simple proximity-based attachment, eliminating the need for tools or complex manipulation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The magnetic connection strength can be adjusted by changing parameters such as magnet size, material, and arrangement within the modules. This allows optimization of the balance between connection strength for structural integrity and ease of adjustment for operation, adapting the magnetic force to match the weight and requirements of different supported objects

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 modular support assembly provides a versatile and customizable solution for supporting objects of varying heights and designs, enhancing adaptability and aesthetic appeal, while maintaining structural integrity through magnetic alignment.

Implementation Method 1

each module of the assembly adheres to adjacent module(s) via a magnetic force attraction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic force attraction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS8973881B2Modular support assembly
Publication Date: 2015.03.10 MIHAJLOVIC MIODRAG
  • US8973881B2 patent drawing
  • US8973881B2 patent drawing
  • US8973881B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A modular support assembly is provided for supporting a useful and/or decorative article. Each module of the assembly adheres to adjacent module(s) via a magnetic force attraction. The height of the modular assembly can be adjusted, as desired, by the addition/removal of various modules to/from the assembly.