Modular Plant Protection Device with Adjustable Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing protection devices for outdoor ornamental plants and materials on balconies are not easily adaptable, secure, or versatile in addressing inclement weather and direct sunlight protection, often relying on improvised means like sticks and plastic sheets.
Innovation Solution
A protection device with adjustable supporting arms and fixing elements that can be easily secured to railings or walls, featuring a protection sheet made of durable materials like cloth or plastic, allowing for customizable length and configuration to fit various balcony dimensions and shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If improvised means like sticks and plastic sheets are used to protect plants, then protection from weather is achieved, but the solution is not secure or reliable
Solution Approach 1:
The protection device is divided into modular components: bearing elements (with first and second components), fixing elements, and protection sheets. Each component serves a specific function and can be independently assembled, providing both security through proper fixation and ease of installation through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The bearing elements are designed to perform multiple functions: supporting the protection sheet, connecting to fixing elements, and adapting to different balcony configurations. The first component attaches to the railing while the second component supports the sheet, creating a universal solution for various protection needs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed protection structure is used, then secure protection is achieved, but adaptability to different balcony configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The protection device incorporates adjustable and removable components that allow the structure to adapt dynamically to different balcony configurations. The bearing elements can be positioned at various locations, and the protection sheets can be adjusted to fit different sizes and shapes, maintaining security while providing versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows changes in key parameters such as the position of bearing elements, the size of protection sheets, and the configuration of supporting arms. These parameter adjustments enable the same basic structure to adapt to different balcony dimensions and plant container arrangements while maintaining reliable protection.
3Reliability
If complex fixing mechanisms are used, then secure attachment is achieved, but ease of installation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing system is segmented into separate fixing elements that attach to the balcony railing independently from the protection sheets. This segmentation allows the fixing elements to be installed first using simple attachment mechanisms, followed by the easier task of attaching the protection sheets to the pre-installed bearing elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The bearing elements are designed to be pre-assembled with fixing elements before installation on the balcony. This preliminary assembly simplifies the installation process by reducing the number of steps that need to be performed at height, while still ensuring secure attachment through the pre-configured fixing mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
Protection device (1) for outdoor ornamental plants, or other material, comprising a protection element (4), suitable for protecting said ornamental plants, or said other material, from atmospheric agents and from direct sunlight, bearing elements (5) for supporting said protection element (4) and fixing elements (6) for fixing said bearing elements to a supporting element; each supporting element (5) comprises a first component (8) a first end (12) of which is removably couplable with a respective fixing element (6) and at least a second component (11) that is fixable to a second end (13) of said first component (8), said second component (11) forming a lengthening of the first component (8).