Modular Pool Fence With Snap-Fit Hinge Clips

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing modular fencing systems for in-ground pools are not easily reconfigurable or installable by users without tools and can damage the surrounding deck or ground, and often lack secure access features.

Innovation Solution

A stand-alone, modular fencing system with self-standing units, including fence modules and a gate module, that uses snap-fit hinge clips and free-standing bases to connect panels without drilling, allowing for easy reconfiguration and secure access without damaging the deck or ground.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If permanent fencing systems requiring drilling posts into the deck are used, then secure and stable fencing is achieved, but the deck is damaged and reconfiguration is impossible

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefencing stabilityVSAvoiddeck damage

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The fencing system is divided into modular sections with individual panels and posts that can be independently assembled and disassembled. Each post contains multiple sockets that can receive different panel types, allowing the fence to be segmented into configurable sections without permanent installation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

An intermediary mounting mechanism is introduced between the post and deck surface - a removable base plate with adhesive mounting capability. This intermediary allows the post to be securely mounted without drilling into the deck, and can be removed and repositioned as needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If traditional removable pool fences requiring drilling sockets into the ground are used, then the fencing can be removed, but approximately 50 holes must be drilled into the pool deck and reconfiguration is not possible

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefence removabilityVSAvoiddeck damage from drilling

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates self-aligning and self-latching mechanisms that allow users to install and configure the fence without professional installation or specialized tools. The modular design with standardized connectors enables end-users to easily assemble, disassemble, and reconfigure the fencing system themselves.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Object-affected harmful factors

If stand-alone fencing systems avoiding drilling are used, then the deck is not damaged, but professional installation is required and the systems are not truly modular or easily reconfigurable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedeck integrityVSAvoiduser-installability

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fencing system transitions from static permanent installation to dynamic reconfigurability. Posts can be easily repositioned by removing and reinserting base plates, panels can be swapped between posts using standardized sockets, and the overall fence configuration can be changed to accommodate different pool layouts or access requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

Each post is designed as a universal mounting unit with multiple sockets that can accommodate different panel types and configurations. The standardized interface allows any panel to be mounted on any post, providing multi-functionality and flexibility in system configuration without requiring professional installation expertise.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Stability of the object's composition

If fencing systems with integrated U-shaped clamps are used, then the fencing panels are connected, but the overall shape is limited by panel size and clamp rotation orientation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepanel connectionVSAvoidfence configuration flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The connection system is segmented into separate functional components: the post with standardized sockets, the panel with mounting brackets, and the connector elements. This segmentation allows each component to be independently optimized and combined in various configurations, unlike integrated clamps that limit flexibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system allows for parameter changes in panel orientation and positioning by providing multiple socket orientations on each post and adjustable mounting brackets on panels. Users can change the angular and positional parameters of panel installation to create different fence shapes and configurations as needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS11846115B2Modular fencing system with gated access

Publication Date: 2023.12.19 VINGERHOETS FRANK

AI summary

A modular, removable, and tool-free, user-installable fencing system includes modular, stand-alone bases that avoid the need to drill into or permanently modify expensive pool decks to secure the fence in place. The system includes fencing modules which include fence panels and a secure-access gate module that can be positioned and repositioned anywhere along the fence. The fence modules and gate modules are connected via hinge clips assembled onto the fence panels and poles inserted through the hinge clips and into the modular bases. The hinge clips allow rotation of the fence panels around the poles.