Magnetic Sign Installation Tool for Controlled Ground Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods of sign installation, such as manually forcing a sign into the ground, can be difficult and may cause damage, especially in hard materials, requiring additional tools and time.
Innovation Solution
A sign installation tool featuring a frame with elongate members and a moveable installation assembly, including brake assemblies, support members, and a locking mechanism, allowing for easy and secure insertion of signs into the ground.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If manual forcing of sign into ground is used, then installation can be done with simple tools, but installation time increases and sign damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a specialized installation tool as an intermediary device between the installer and the sign. This tool includes a frame with elongate members that interface with the sign, a mechanism for applying controlled force, and components for securing the sign during installation. The intermediary tool enables efficient installation without direct manual handling of the sign itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The installation tool is divided into multiple functional components: a frame structure with elongate members for supporting the sign, a mechanism for applying insertion force, braking components for controlling descent, and locking mechanisms for securing the sign in position. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall system simplicity.
2Device complexity
If manual forcing of sign into ground is used, then tool complexity remains low, but risk of sign damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The installation tool incorporates braking components and controlled descent mechanisms that prevent excessive force from being applied to the sign during installation. The brake assemblies control the rate at which the sign is inserted into the ground, cushioning against impact forces that could cause damage. The locking mechanisms engage before final positioning to prevent sudden movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure with elongate members serves as an intermediary that distributes and controls the forces applied during installation. Rather than direct manual contact with the sign, forces are transmitted through the structured frame, which provides mechanical advantage and force distribution to prevent concentration of stress on vulnerable sign components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional tools like hammer are used for hard ground, then sign can be installed in hard materials, but installation time and material requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The installation tool incorporates movable and adjustable components that adapt to different ground conditions. The brake assemblies can be adjusted to provide appropriate resistance for various soil hardness levels. The frame structure allows for dynamic positioning and force application adjustments, enabling the same tool to effectively install signs in both soft and hard ground without requiring additional specialized tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The installation tool is designed as a multi-functional device that can handle various installation scenarios: soft ground, hard ground, different sign weights and sizes, and various ground materials. The adjustable brake mechanisms, versatile frame configuration, and controlled force application capabilities allow a single tool to replace multiple specialized tools, reducing both installation time and material requirements.
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
Facilitates efficient and damage-free installation of signs by providing a structured mechanism for securing and positioning signs, reducing the need for manual force and additional tools.
Implementation Method 1
A magnet is attached to the bracket and is used to hold a sign in position
Data Source
AI summary
Sign installation tools are described. A sign installation tool includes a first frame and an installation assembly. The first frame has a first elongate member and a second elongate member. The installation assembly is moveable between a first position and a second position. The installation assembly has a first housing, a second housing, a second frame, a bracket, and a first magnet. The first housing is slidably disposed on the first elongate member. The second housing is slidably disposed the second elongate member. The second frame is attached to the first housing and the second housing. The bracket is attached to the second frame. The first bracket magnet is attached to the bracket.