Modular Gate Frame With Friction Fit Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing top-of-stairs gates are difficult to ship, store, and install due to their complex anchoring systems and lack of modular design, which limits their ease of use and customization.
Innovation Solution
A modular gate system with a gate frame composed of first and second gate frame portions, connected by intermediate connections that provide a friction fit, allowing the gate to be easily assembled, disassembled, and reconfigured to fit various passageway widths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a gate uses a complex anchoring system to be securely fixed to structures, then the gate's stability and reliability are improved, but the gate's ease of installation and ease of operation deteriorate due to difficulty in assembly and disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The gate is divided into multiple frame portions (first gate frame portion, second gate frame portion) that can be independently handled and installed. Each frame portion has its own anchoring system, allowing the gate to be installed in sections rather than as one large complex unit, thereby improving ease of installation while maintaining stability through multiple anchor points
Solution Approach 2:
The anchoring system incorporates movable and adjustable components that allow the gate to transition between installed and removed states. The frame portions can be dynamically assembled and disassembled from the structures, providing both secure fixation when installed and ease of removal when needed
2Strength
If a gate is designed as a single rigid structure to maintain structural integrity, then the gate's strength and stability are improved, but the gate's adaptability to different passageway widths deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The gate frame is segmented into multiple portions (first gate frame portion, second gate frame portion) connected by intermediate connections. This segmentation allows the gate to be configured in different arrangements to fit various passageway widths while each individual frame portion maintains its structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The gate structure incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements that allow it to dynamically adapt to different passageway widths. The frame portions can be repositioned and reconfigured, providing versatility in fitting different spaces while maintaining structural strength through proper connection mechanisms
3Manufacturing precision
If a gate uses a non-modular design with fixed components, then the gate's manufacturing precision and structural consistency are improved, but the gate's ease of storage and shipping deteriorates due to inability to disassemble into compact forms
Solution Approach 1:
The gate is segmented into multiple frame portions that can be independently manufactured with precise dimensions and then assembled together. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured with high precision using standardized processes, while the overall gate can be disassembled into compact sections for efficient storage and shipping
Solution Approach 2:
The gate incorporates reconfigurable connections that allow it to transition between an assembled operational state and a disassembled storage state. This dynamic capability enables the gate to maintain structural consistency when assembled while being easily stored and shipped in compact configurations when disassembled
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 modular design enables the gate to be shipped and stored in a compact form, easily assembled and disassembled, and customized to fit different passageway widths, enhancing user convenience and flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
intermediate connection providing a friction fit between the first and second gate frame portions
Data Source
AI summary
A barrier that includes four structurally different corner connections for fixing a gate frame of the barrier to and between opposing vertical surfaces. A first connection includes a headed straight pin engaging a pivot hook and socket, a second connection includes a headed straight pin engaging a socket, a third connection includes headless bent pin engaging a socket and a limiter, and a fourth connection includes a headless bent pin engaging a socket.