Modular Drain Panels with Interlocking Tubular Supports
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing subsurface drainage systems for sports fields and similar surfaces are costly to transport and time-consuming to install, despite their effectiveness in maintaining adequate drainage and preventing field unavailability due to heavy precipitation.
Innovation Solution
A subsurface drainage system comprising a base layer, impermeable liner, semi-permeable filter fabric, root zone layer, and a drain structure made of injection-molded plastic panels with flexible backing grids and tubular support members that allow rapid fluid infiltration and easy assembly, reducing installation time and costs through modular design and interlocking mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional drain structures are used, then drainage function is achieved, but transportation cost increases and installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drain structure is divided into modular panels that can be manufactured separately and assembled on-site. Each panel contains integrated components (backing grid, support members, filter fabric attachment points) that are pre-fabricated and then quickly connected using interlocking mechanisms, significantly reducing installation time while maintaining drainage functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional components are merged into a single integrated panel structure. The backing grid, support members, filter fabric attachment system, and drainage channels are combined into one unified module, eliminating the need for separate installation steps and reducing both transportation complexity and installation time.
2Reliability
If traditional drain structures are used, then drainage function is achieved, but transportation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the drain structure into standardized modular panels, the system optimizes transportation efficiency. Multiple panels can be stacked and shipped in compact configurations, reducing the volume and cost per unit of drainage functionality compared to traditional custom-built or larger monolithic structures.
3Productivity
If modular panels with interlocking mechanisms are used, then installation time decreases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The modular panel design with integrated interlocking mechanisms segments the installation process into simple, repeatable steps. Each panel is self-contained with built-in connection features that require minimal assembly operations, making the complex functionality accessible through simple installation procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The interlocking mechanisms are designed to be self-aligning and self-securing, reducing the need for complex tools or specialized installation procedures. The panels automatically engage and lock into place through their inherent structural features, simplifying the installation process despite the sophisticated internal design.
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 system enables efficient drainage, reduces installation time and costs, and maintains field usability by allowing rapid water infiltration and easy assembly of the drainage structure, while also stabilizing surfaces and preventing erosion.
Implementation Method 1
a semi-permeable filter fabric layer (16) disposed on the drain structure (14)
Data Source
AI summary
A subsurface drainage assembly for directing fluid drainage from a surface is disclosed. The subsurface drainage assembly includes a plurality of drain structure panels that include a plurality of spaced apart tubular support members arranged to define a unit having a plurality of side edges, the tubular support members having a first end, a second end, and a sidewall extending there between. The drain structure panels further include at least one strut extending from each support member to another support member to latterly support the tubular support members. An anchor plate is positioned between at least two tubular support members. The anchor plate has an aperture formed there through sized and configured to receive a ground anchoring member for securing the drain structure panel to a ground surface.