Modular Fence Panels With Removable Infill for Wind Resilience
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fence systems are not designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, leading to frequent damage and high repair costs due to wind entrapment, necessitating permanent structures that are not easily modified or adapted.
Innovation Solution
A modular fence system with removable infill sections that can be detached before extreme weather events, featuring coupler elements and rail elements that allow for easy customization and reassembly, using materials like plastic, vinyl, and aluminum for durability and flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional fence systems use permanent structures with infill sections, then security and aesthetic appeal are maintained, but the fence becomes vulnerable to wind damage during extreme weather events
Solution Approach 1:
The fence system is divided into modular components including removable infill sections that can be detached from the frame structure. This segmentation allows the infill portions to be removed before extreme weather events while keeping the structural frame intact, thereby maintaining security and aesthetics during normal conditions while preventing wind damage during storms.
Solution Approach 2:
The fence system transitions from a static permanent structure to a dynamic system where infill sections can be easily removed and reinstalled. The coupling mechanisms allow for quick detachment and reattachment of infill portions, enabling the fence to adapt its configuration based on weather conditions - fully assembled for security/aesthetics and partially disassembled for wind resistance.
2Stability of the object's composition
If conventional fence systems are designed as permanent structures, then structural stability is achieved, but the system lacks adaptability for modification or removal of components
Solution Approach 1:
The fence is constructed from separate modular components (frame elements, infill sections, coupling mechanisms) that can be independently assembled, modified, or removed. This modular segmentation maintains structural stability through proper connection designs while enabling easy adaptability for component removal, addition, or reconfiguration without compromising the overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanisms serve multiple functions: providing structural connection for stability, enabling easy detachment for adaptability, and allowing for various configuration options. The universal coupling design works across different infill section types and frame configurations, supporting both permanent installation and temporary modification needs.
3Ease of operation
If infill sections are permanently attached to maintain security and aesthetics, then the fence provides continuous protection and appearance, but removal and repair require significant time and effort
Solution Approach 1:
The infill sections are designed as separate removable modules that can be independently accessed and detached from the frame. This segmentation allows maintenance personnel to quickly remove only the specific infill section needing repair or replacement without dismantling the entire fence or adjacent sections, significantly reducing maintenance time and effort.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanisms are designed to allow easy extraction of infill sections from the frame structure. The quick-release coupling design enables infill portions to be removed and reinstalled without complex tools or procedures, making maintenance operations simple and rapid while maintaining secure attachment during normal use.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular fence system having a plurality of base portions configured for securing to the ground surface, a first plurality of coupler elements for coupling to the plurality of base portions, a plurality of vertical rail elements each having a first end and a second end, wherein the first ends of the plurality of vertical rail elements are configured for coupling to the first plurality of coupler elements, a second plurality of coupler elements for coupling to the second end of the plurality of vertical rail elements, a first horizontal rail element configured for coupling to the first plurality of coupler elements, a second horizontal rail element configured for coupling to the second plurality of coupler elements, and an infill section sized and configured for coupling to and seating between the plurality of vertical rail elements and the first and second horizontal rail elements, when assembled.