Modular Balustrade with Swivel Mounts for Adjustable Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing balustrade systems face challenges in being visually appealing, adaptable, adjustable, easy to install, and robust, while also needing to withstand various loads and aesthetic considerations in residential and commercial construction.
Innovation Solution
A modular balustrade system comprising a handrail, newel posts, and balusters with swivel mounts and adjustable components made from various materials, allowing for secure, versatile, and aesthetically pleasing installations that can be easily adjusted to fit different applications and orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional balustrade systems are used, then structural strength and load-bearing capacity are ensured, but adaptability and ease of installation are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The balustrade system is divided into modular components including balusters, newel posts, handrails, and base plates that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation enables easy adaptation to different staircase configurations while maintaining structural integrity through standardized connection interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The base plate is designed with multiple functions: it provides structural support, enables adjustable positioning, facilitates secure mounting to various surfaces, and allows for height adjustment of balusters. This multi-functionality increases adaptability without requiring multiple different components.
2Ease of operation
If traditional balustrade systems are used, then structural robustness is ensured, but ease of installation and adjustability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate is pre-drilled with multiple mounting holes in various positions, and the system includes pre-assembled modular components. This preliminary preparation enables installers to quickly adapt the system to different installations without complex field modifications, while the robust steel construction ensures structural reliability is maintained.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable height mechanism allows the baluster position relative to the base plate to be dynamically changed during installation and future adjustments. This dynamic capability enables easy adaptation to different staircase heights and configurations while the locked positioning mechanism ensures structural robustness once installed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable components are added to increase adaptability, then ease of installation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable height mechanism uses a nested structure where the baluster fits into a slot on the base plate, allowing vertical adjustment while maintaining a compact appearance. This nesting approach provides adjustability without adding significant external complexity or requiring multiple separate adjustment components.
Data Source
AI summary
In at least one embodiment, it is contemplated that the present invention provides a baluster system including a handrail, at least one newel post having a shaft, a mounting plate abutting the shaft and adapted for fixing the newel post to a lower supporting surface, a plate abutting the shaft, and an intermediary shaft portion having a second end abutting the plate and a first end having a swivel mount adapted for fixing to the underside of the handrail, and at least one baluster having a first end having a swivel mount adapted for fixing to the underside of the handrail, a second end having a swivel mount for fixing to a lower supporting surface and a baluster shaft extending between the first end and the second end.