Modular Columbarium Assembly with Stackable Niche Cabinets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current columbarium systems lack design flexibility, durability, and security features, failing to meet the increasing demand for customizable, long-lasting, and tamper-proof structures for storing cremated remains.
Innovation Solution
A modular columbarium system comprising stackable five-sided niche cabinets with adjustable brackets, face plates, and security assemblies, allowing for various designs and configurations, including non-linear shapes, using materials like polyethylene and extruded aluminum, with secure fastening mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional columbarium systems are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but design flexibility and customization capability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The columbarium system is divided into modular niche cabinets that can be independently configured and assembled. Each niche cabinet is a discrete unit with standardized dimensions and attachment points, allowing flexible arrangement in various patterns (linear, curved, multi-level) while maintaining structural simplicity through repetition of the basic module.
Solution Approach 2:
The niche cabinets and supporting structures are designed with universal attachment mechanisms that allow the same basic components to serve multiple functions and configurations. The standardized interfaces enable the system to adapt to different site requirements without requiring custom-designed elements, achieving design flexibility through universal modular components.
2Reliability
If basic niche cabinets are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but durability and security features are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The niche cabinets utilize composite construction combining polyethylene material for the cabinet body with extruded aluminum for structural braces and mounting hardware. This composite approach provides enhanced durability, weather resistance, and security features while maintaining manufacturing efficiency through use of extruded and molded components rather than complex assembled structures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed configuration systems are used, then installation simplicity is maintained, but customization capability for individual site designs is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs segmented, modular niche cabinets with standardized connection interfaces that can be easily assembled in various configurations. The modular design allows installers to create customized arrangements by simply reconfiguring the same basic units, maintaining installation simplicity while achieving high customizability for different site designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanisms and mounting systems are designed to be adjustable and reconfigurable, allowing the structure to be dynamically adapted during installation. The standardized interfaces and flexible mounting options enable simple installation processes that can accommodate various design requirements without requiring complex custom fabrication or installation procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A columbarium system and corresponding method of assembly is disclosed. The columbarium system includes niche cabinets, braces, brackets, face plates, and face plate security hardware. The niche cabinets are stackable in columns and rows to form a columbarium. The braces fit between front lip segments of adjacent niche cabinets. The brackets comprise bracket arms and face plate knobs. Bracket arms extend into braces, and face plate knobs support face plate corners. Face plates cover front sides of each niche cabinet. Face plates are supported and positioned by the face plate knobs, and face plates are secured in place by face plate security hardware. Shims may be inserted between adjacent niche cabinets to maintain spacing between the backs of niche cabinets.