Modular A-Frame Rostrum Support for Uneven Ground Stability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing rostrum support structures are either labor-intensive to assemble, unstable during assembly, require level and stable ground for installation, and are unsuitable for compact storage and transportation due to their large and heavy nature, especially when using nested systems.

Innovation Solution

A modular support structure composed of interconnected A-frames that are self-supporting, distributively load-bearing across a wider area, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly, and can be adjusted in height and angle, with telescopic and retractable features for flexibility and stability on uneven surfaces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If nested systems are used to create a single unit rostrum, then assembly stability is improved, but the system becomes large, heavy and unsuitable for compact storage and transportation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly stabilityVSAvoidsystem weight
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSWeight of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention divides the rostrum system into multiple independent support structures instead of using a single nested unit. Each support structure can be independently assembled and positioned, providing stability during assembly while allowing the overall system to be compact and lightweight for storage and transportation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of manufacture

If conventional nested systems are used, then storage and transportation are simplified, but the system requires level and stable ground for installation and is prone to instability on uneven surfaces

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage and transportation easeVSAvoidadaptability to uneven surfaces
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

Each support structure is designed with independent adjustable features that can locally adapt to the ground conditions at its specific location. This allows the overall system to function on uneven surfaces while maintaining ease of storage and transportation through the modular design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Volume of moving object

If individual components are used to construct a rostrum, then compact storage and easy transportation are achieved, but labour intensive manual assembly is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage volumeVSAvoidassembly ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses segmented support structures that can be stored compactly but are designed with features that simplify assembly. Each module maintains structural integrity while allowing for relatively easy connection to other modules, reducing the labor intensity compared to conventional individual component assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Stability of the object's composition

If nested systems are used, then assembly stability is improved, but the system is difficult to transport and requires permanent fixed decking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly stabilityVSAvoiddecking flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

By dividing the system into separate support structure modules rather than a single nested unit, the invention achieves assembly stability through interconnection of modules while freeing the decking from permanent fixed requirements. Each support structure can independently support flexible decking configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP2167760B1Rostrum and support structure
Publication Date: 2019.05.08 STEELDECK IND LTD
  • EP2167760B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2167760B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP2167760B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

The invention resides in a support structure (8) for a rostrum (40), comprising: a first A- frame (10); and at least a second A-frame (12), nestable and retractable into the first A-frame (10). The support structure may comprise an open central area (14) and the second A-frame may be substantially the same as, but smaller than, the open central area of the first A-frame. The A-frame may comprise at least one support means (24) connected to each A-frame for supporting a load, wherein the support means is connected to an upper portion of one A-frame, the support means extending from the upper portion of the one A-frame and being co- operable with an upper portion of another A-frame. The support structure may be telescopic and configured to be expandable and retractable between a retracted, stored position, and an extended, in use position.