Modular Signage Using Magnetic Grid for Easy Menu Updates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular panel signs for fast food restaurants are complex, require multiple steps to update, and do not provide a professional appearance, especially when numerous individual magnetic pieces are used, which can slide off and complicate the change process.
Innovation Solution
A modular sign apparatus using a translucent mounting board with precisely positioned holes for cylindrical magnets, allowing printed sheets with magnets to be easily swapped, eliminating the need for frames and stop elements, and incorporating edge members for a neat finish, with optional indicia carriers for price updates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If individual magnetic strips and price elements are used to cover the sign surface, then the sign can be modified to accommodate frequent changes in food items and prices, but the large plurality of separate sign elements does not provide a uniform and professional-looking appearance and the elements tend to slide off their intended positions
Solution Approach 1:
The sign assembly is segmented into a modular grid system with multiple positions, where each position can independently hold a sign element. This allows the entire sign surface to be divided into manageable sections that can be individually updated while maintaining overall structural integrity and professional appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
Metal strips are introduced as intermediary components between the frame and the sign elements. These metal strips provide structured attachment points that prevent individual elements from sliding off while maintaining ease of modification. The metal strips act as a mediator that organizes the magnetic elements into a stable, professional-looking grid.
2Reliability
If strong magnets are used to hold individual elements in place, then the elements can be securely attached, but the structural complexity and parts count increase due to the need for locking or stop elements
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic attachment mechanism is merged with the metal strip structure. The magnets are integrated into or attached to the metal strips, combining the holding function with the positioning function into a single integrated component system, thereby reducing the need for separate locking or stop elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic system provides self-aligning and self-holding capability. The magnets naturally attract to the metal strips and hold the sign elements in place without requiring additional mechanical locks or stop elements. The system serves itself by using magnetic force for both positioning and securing.
3Reliability
If a frame structure is used to hold the sign assembly, then the sign elements can be secured in position, but the number of steps required to change a display increases and the structural complexity is higher than preferred
Solution Approach 1:
The frame structure is segmented into multiple metal strip sections that are distributed across the frame. This segmentation allows individual sign elements to be accessed and changed independently without requiring disassembly of the entire frame structure, thereby reducing the number of steps needed to update the display.
Solution Approach 2:
The metal strips are designed to be flexible or movable within the frame structure, allowing them to accommodate insertion and removal of sign elements easily. This dynamic design enables quick updates by simply sliding elements onto or off of the metal strips without complex frame manipulation.
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
Simplifies the process of updating menu information, reduces parts and complexity, and maintains a professional appearance by using strong magnets and beveled holes for secure attachment, enabling easy adjustment of sheet dimensions and geometry without replacing the mounting board.
Implementation Method 1
The magnets are held firmly in position by virtue of both the magnetic attractive force and the shape of the walls of the mounting board holes
Data Source
AI summary
A readily modifiable modular sign apparatus is especially useful for use as easily changed advertisement media such as in department stores and retail stores. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a preferably translucent substrate or mounting board which is preferably planar and has a front surface and a back surface. Precisely positioned holes are prepared at selected locations. These holes are formed to be aligned with thin metal shims which are affixed on the back surface of the mounting board and receive cylindrical magnets on the front surface. The magnets are attached directly to the rear of printed sheets, each of which may have wording or pictorial information or both. The magnets contact the metal shims through the mounting board holes, and are held firmly in position by virtue of both the magnetic attractive force and the shape of the walls of the mounting board holes. The printed sheets may be provided with indicia carriers to permit personnel to change just numerical data such as prices without the requirement to replace the entire printed sheet. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, such indicia carriers are affixed directly to the front surface of the printed sheets by a separate magnetic structure that provides easy access to the numerical indicia.