Modular Rod Fence Assembly Without Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current modular fencing and security systems face challenges such as complex installation procedures, damage to protective coatings during assembly, and limited design variations due to prefabricated segments, which increase costs and storage requirements.
Innovation Solution
A modular construction system using solid rod-like elements with holes that can be assembled without additional tools, where one rod-like element is fixed through holes in others, creating a rigid structure without welding or riveting, and allowing for easy disassembly and reuse, while maintaining protective coatings intact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If modular fence segments are prefabricated as complete units, then installation time is reduced, but storage space requirements increase and design variation is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The fence system is divided into modular segments that can be stored in compact forms and assembled on-site. Each segment consists of individual components (posts, rails, pickets) that can be stacked efficiently during storage and quickly assembled during installation, reducing both storage volume requirements and installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
Fence components are designed to nest within each other during storage - pickets nest within rail assemblies, which nest within post structures. This nested configuration minimizes storage space while allowing rapid deployment during installation by simply un nesting and assembling the pre-configured modules.
2Strength
If welding is used to assemble fence components, then structural strength is improved, but protective coatings are damaged and additional protection is required
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of directly welding metal components (which damages coatings), the invention uses intermediate connection mechanisms such as mechanical fasteners, snap-fit assemblies, or interlocking joints. These intermediaries provide sufficient structural strength while preserving the integrity of protective coatings on all components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the thermal welding process with a mechanical connection system. Components are joined through mechanical means such as threaded fasteners, rivets, or interlocking geometries that achieve comparable or superior structural strength without the harmful thermal effects of welding that compromise protective coatings.
3Reliability
If complex assembly procedures are used, then connection reliability is improved, but installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fence assembly system incorporates self-aligning and self-locking features that guide components into correct positions and automatically secure connections. The modular design includes built-in alignment pins, tapered fitments, and snap-lock mechanisms that ensure reliable connections without requiring complex assembly procedures or specialized tools.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using complex multi-step assembly procedures to ensure reliability, the invention inverts the approach by designing components that are inherently easy to assemble correctly. The reverse design principle ensures that the simplest assembly method (even by unskilled individuals) produces the most reliable connection, eliminating the need for complex procedures.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a modular construction, for example a fence segment, composed of solid rod-like elements. The construction comprises first rod-like elements wherein each first rod-like element comprising at least one hole. A first rod-like element is fixated in longitudinal direction of the first rod-like element by a second rod-like element which passes through a hole of the first rod-like element. The first rod-like elements is fixated in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction by passing a first rod-shaped part of the first rod-like element through a hole of one or more third rod-like elements. These features provide a construction which enables one to assemble the construction without need of dedicated tools.