Modular Spa Structural Support Assembly for Tool-Free Panel Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spa support systems are aesthetically unpleasing, require complex maintenance, and have haphazardly arranged components, making them difficult to access and maintain.
Innovation Solution
A modular structural support system comprising vertical supports with polygonal openings, channel brackets with hexagonal bosses, and spa panel retention members with projections, allowing for easy assembly, disassembly, and replacement, as well as secure attachment of spa panels and internal components without tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a traditional cabinet assembly is built separate from the spa using wooden or metal frame with rigid panels and fastening members, then the cabinet provides structural support and aesthetic appearance, but the cabinet must be removed for maintenance and components are arranged haphazardly
Solution Approach 1:
The cabinet assembly is divided into modular panels that can be independently attached and detached from the spa shell. Each panel is a separate module that can be quickly removed without dismantling the entire cabinet structure, enabling easy maintenance access while maintaining aesthetic appearance when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The cabinet transitions from a static, permanently fixed structure to a dynamic, reconfigurable assembly. Panels can be attached and detached as needed, allowing the cabinet to adapt between its aesthetic enclosed state and its maintenance-access state, providing both visual appeal and serviceability.
2Strength
If the cabinet assembly is built separate from the spa and then placed around it, then the cabinet provides structural support, but complex assembly and disassembly procedures are required
Solution Approach 1:
The cabinet assembly process is merged with the spa installation process. The modular panels are designed to be attached directly to the spa shell in a single integrated operation, eliminating the need for separate assembly and disassembly steps. The attachment mechanism combines structural support function with easy installation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular panels incorporate self-aligning and self-securing features that enable easy attachment and detachment without requiring complex tools or procedures. The panels automatically position themselves correctly during installation, reducing assembly complexity while maintaining structural integrity.
3Stability of the object's composition
If components such as water lines and controllers are contained within the cabinet, then they are protected and organized, but they are arranged in a haphazard manner and difficult to access
Solution Approach 1:
The cabinet interior is segmented into organized compartments and designated areas for different components such as water lines and controllers. This segmentation provides structured organization while allowing individual components or groups to be accessed by removing only specific panels rather than the entire cabinet.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular panel system serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, maintains aesthetic appearance, organizes internal components, and enables easy access for maintenance. The same panel structure that encloses and protects components also serves as the access mechanism, combining protection and serviceability in a single system.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for supporting the structure of a spa may include vertical supports, channel brackets that mate with vertical supports, and exterior brackets that mate with the channel brackets to hold spa exterior panels in place. The vertical supports may be formed of a first portion and a second portion, the first portion and second portion formed of contiguous hexagons having one open side. The first portion may be open on a first side, with the second portion open on a second side. The open sides of the hexagons may create a space or pocket to allow for additional structures, such as brackets, to mate with the hexagons of the vertical support. A channel bracket may include a hexagonal boss to mate with a vertical support, as well as a channel for receiving a projection of an exterior bracket to hold a spa side panel in place.