Modular Fence Hinges for Stable Yet Mobile Barrier Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile fences are prone to toppling when pushed and are cumbersome to install, uninstall, and mobilize, making them unsuitable for scenarios where animals or humans regularly interact with them.
Innovation Solution
A modular fence assembly comprising fence modules with stabilizing bases and connectors that allow angular motion and overlapping connections, enabling flexible configurations and stability against pushing forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mobile fences are designed to be easily movable, then ease of operation is improved, but stability deteriorates making them prone to toppling
Solution Approach 1:
The fence system employs dynamic characteristics by allowing individual modules to rotate relative to each other about vertical axes through the hinge connectors. This enables the fence to adapt its configuration - standing rigid when needed for stability, or folding/collapsing when mobility is required - thus resolving the contradiction between stability and ease of mobilization
Solution Approach 2:
The fence is divided into multiple independent modules that can be individually manipulated and reconfigured. Each module connects to others through hinge connectors, allowing the fence to be segmented for easy assembly, disassembly, and storage while maintaining stability when assembled, thereby addressing both ease of operation and stability requirements
2Ease of operation
If mobile fences are designed for easy installation and removal, then ease of operation is improved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides structural connection between modules, enables rotational movement for assembly/disassembly, and maintains fence integrity. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate parts needed, simplifying the overall system despite the sophisticated motion capabilities required for easy installation
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge connector serves multiple purposes: connecting adjacent modules, allowing angular motion for flexible configuration, enabling easy assembly and disassembly, and maintaining structural integrity. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized components for each function, thereby managing device complexity while achieving ease of installation
3Stability of the object's composition
If fence modules are connected rigidly, then stability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates limiting configuration options
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge connector provides a dynamic connection that allows angular motion between modules while maintaining structural integrity. This enables the fence to be configured in various angles and shapes for adaptability, yet remains stable when assembled in the desired configuration, resolving the contradiction between rigid stability and flexible adaptability
Data Source
AI summary
A modular fence assembly, including multiple fence modules each comprising: a barrier comprising a pair of substantially parallel end posts, and a base configured to stabilize the respective fence module on a surface. The modular fence assembly further includes multiple connectors each configured to connect two adjacent fence modules of the multiple fence modules, wherein: each of the multiple connectors is configured as a double hinge having a pair of parallel internal channels, and each of the internal channels is configured to embrace an end post of one of the two adjacent fence modules. The multiple fence modules and the multiple connectors are configured to be assembled into a fence.