Modular Floor Channel Member With Movable Band
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for positioning objects on stages, such as using wheels or cable systems, suffer from inconsistent positioning, visibility issues, high force requirements, and difficulty in modifying or accessing objects during performances.
Innovation Solution
A modular floor system with channel members and a movable band that allows for concealed object movement, enabling precise positioning and repositioning without stagehands, and facilitating easy assembly and disassembly of platforms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If positionable objects have wheels and/or low friction surfaces for rolling and sliding, then the objects can be moved on and off stage, but the positioning becomes inconsistent and stage hands may be seen resulting in undesirable aesthetics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the movement function from manual stage hands and wheel-based systems, embedding it instead within the floor structure itself through channels and movable bands. This eliminates the need for visible stage hands and inconsistent manual positioning while maintaining smooth object movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (movable band within channel members) that mediates between the floor structure and the positionable objects. This intermediary provides controlled, consistent movement while remaining concealed within the floor, eliminating both visibility issues and positioning inconsistency.
2Ease of operation
If positionable objects include features permitting lifting by cables extending from the ceiling, then objects can be moved, but a substantial amount of force is required and wind can cause objects to sway
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from vertical cable-based movement to horizontal movement within floor-level channels. This dimensional change eliminates the need for substantial lifting force and prevents swaying by keeping objects stable on the floor surface while allowing controlled horizontal repositioning through the band mechanism.
3Ease of operation
If positionable objects are lifted by cables, then objects can be moved, but the objects become difficult to modify or fix during a show because they are not easily accessed
Solution Approach 1:
The movable band acts as an intermediary that remains within the floor structure while interacting with positionable objects. This allows the objects to stay accessible on the floor surface for easy modification and repair, while the band provides the movement function that would otherwise require complex cable systems.
4Ease of operation
If traditional caster wheels and trucks are used under stages for positioning, then objects can be moved, but the stage profile must be higher
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the positioning function with the floor structure itself by embedding channels and movable bands within the floor members. This integration eliminates the need for separate caster wheels and trucks underneath the stage, allowing for a lower profile design while maintaining full positioning capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent moves the positioning mechanism from the vertical dimension (casters underneath the stage) to the horizontal dimension (channels within the floor). This allows positioning functionality to be achieved without increasing stage height, enabling lower profile construction.
Data Source
AI summary
A channel member, a modular floor structure, and a method capable of positioning an object on a substantially planar surface is disclosed. Movement of a movable band within an interior channel of the channel member permits movement of an object outside of the interior channel.