Modular framework support systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular framework support systems require multiple collars to accommodate various strut combinations, making assembly difficult and inventory management complex due to non-interchangeable components.
Innovation Solution
A modular framework support system featuring a planar foot with a rectangular socket having elongate ribs and a projection with laterally extending fingers, allowing a single base unit to securely fit different strut sizes without the need for multiple collars, manufactured as a unitary element by injection molding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single base unit with oversized socket is used to accommodate various strut sizes, then adaptability is improved, but assembly difficulty increases due to manipulation challenges
Solution Approach 1:
The base unit is segmented into multiple socket types (circular socket for round struts, rectangular socket for square struts) rather than using a single oversized socket. This segmentation allows each socket to be precisely sized for its intended strut type, improving ease of assembly while maintaining adaptability across different strut configurations
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the base unit have different socket configurations tailored to specific strut types. The circular socket is optimized for round struts while the rectangular socket is optimized for square struts, ensuring each local area has the precise geometry needed for its function, thereby avoiding manipulation difficulties associated with oversized generic sockets
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple collars are used to suit every possible strut combination, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and inventory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple socket types (circular and rectangular) are merged into a single base unit, eliminating the need for multiple separate collars. This consolidation maintains the ability to accommodate various strut combinations while significantly reducing device complexity and inventory requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The base unit is designed with multi-functionality, incorporating both circular and rectangular sockets to handle different strut types within a single component. This universal design allows one base unit to perform the functions previously requiring multiple specialized collars, reducing both complexity and inventory needs
3Ease of operation
If traditional feet with collars are used, then ease of assembly is improved for specific strut types, but adaptability decreases due to non-interchangeable components
Solution Approach 1:
The base unit incorporates multiple socket types (circular and rectangular) in a single component, making it universally applicable to different strut types. This allows the same base unit to maintain assembly simplicity for each specific strut type while simultaneously providing adaptability across all strut configurations
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to modular framework support systems. In particular, it relates to framework support systems of the non-penetrative type particularly used for supporting heating and ventilating apparatus and other service and plant apparatus on a roof of a building. The application describes a support (10) for a modular framework system, the support comprising a planar foot (11) comprising a socket (12) having a substantially rectangular cross-section with a long axis and a short axis. The socket has a base and an opening. The socket is provided with one or more elongate ribs (25) between the base and the opening and extending into the socket. The socket further comprises a projection (20) extending upwardly from the base, the projection having a spine (21) aligned with the long axis of the socket. Preferably, each rib (25) has a stepped configuration such that an operatively lower portion of the rib extends further into the socket than an operatively upper portion of the rib.