Modular platform
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular display platforms for aquatic tanks face safety risks due to complex earthing requirements, as multiple connections are needed to prevent electrocution, and faults in these connections can lead to electrical shocks.
Innovation Solution
A modular platform with joints having a metal core partially encased in a non-conductive cover, allowing electrical connection around the platform via joints between support members, with a single common earth point for simplified and safer earthing, using a grounding rod made of non-corrosive material.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate earthing connections are used for each metal component, then safety against electrocution is improved, but device complexity and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate earthing connections into a single common earth point. The metal frame components are electrically connected to each other through the coupling mechanisms, forming a continuous conductive path that connects all metal parts to a single earthing location, eliminating the need for multiple separate earthing connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanisms serve dual functions: mechanically joining frame components and electrically connecting them for earthing purposes. The metal couplings act as both structural elements and conductive pathways, allowing the same component to fulfill multiple roles in the system.
2Reliability
If metal components are encased in plastic to prevent electricity transmission, then safety is improved, but structural strength and coupling stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the earthing function from the plastic encasement concept. Instead of encasing metal components in plastic to prevent electricity transmission, the design uses exposed metal coupling components that are deliberately designed to conduct electricity and provide electrical connection between frame components and to the earth point.
Solution Approach 2:
The metal couplings act as intermediaries that facilitate electrical connection between frame components and the earth point. Rather than using plastic as an insulating barrier, the metal couplings serve as conductive mediators that actively connect electrical paths while providing mechanical joining functionality.
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 solution ensures a safer and simpler construction by maintaining the entire modular platform as a single, 'live' electrical connection, reducing the risk of electrocution and simplifying installation and maintenance by grounding all components through a single point.
Implementation Method 1
The joint comprises a metal core partially encased by a non-conductive cover means and the metal core is exposed through the cover means at one or more contact points
Implementation Method 2
the or each electrical connections means to earth comprises a grounding rod
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A joint (1) for modular displays comprising two or more arms (3, 5, 7), wherein the joint (1) comprises a metal core (9) partially encased by a non-conductive cover means (11), wherein the metal core (9) is exposed through the cover means (11) at one or more contact points (13).