Modular Stage Scenery Kit with Interchangeable Connector Elements
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional stage construction methods are time-consuming and expensive due to the need for multiple, specialized elements and equipment for setting up and moving elaborate set structures, which are difficult to reuse and reorganize efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A modular kit comprising interchangeable wall, door, window, floor, and stair units with painted or textured surfaces and connector elements, allowing for quick assembly and disassembly without specialized tools, and enabling easy rotation and reconfiguration of elements to simulate different environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional unified set structures are used, then structural stability is improved, but setup time and moving time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The unified set structure is divided into modular components (walls, floors, ceilings, doors, windows) that can be independently assembled and disassembled. Each module contains standardized connector elements that enable quick joining without requiring the entire structure to be moved as one unit, thus reducing setup and moving time while maintaining structural integrity through proper modular connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The set structure transitions from a static unified form to a dynamic modular configuration. Modules can be selectively assembled, reconfigured, and disassembled based on production requirements. The connector elements enable dynamic reconfiguration of the set without compromising structural stability during use.
2Reliability
If elaborate set elements are created for different surfaces, then visual realism is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Each modular component is designed with multiple faces that can simulate different surfaces (masonry, wood, plaster, etc.). A single wall module can present different visual appearances on different sides, eliminating the need to manufacture separate elaborate elements for each surface type. The standardized connectors provide universal compatibility across all module types.
Solution Approach 2:
The visual properties of the set elements are changed by rotating or reconfiguring modules with different surface treatments on their faces. Rather than creating physically different elaborate structures for each surface type, the system uses parameter changes (orientation, configuration) of standardized modules to achieve visual realism.
3Ease of operation
If specialized moving equipment is used, then moving capability is improved, but equipment cost and storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The set is segmented into manageable modular units that can be moved independently using standard equipment rather than requiring specialized equipment for entire structures. This segmentation reduces the size and weight of individual moving units, allowing use of conventional equipment and reducing storage space requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Standardized connector elements serve as intermediaries that facilitate easy assembly and disassembly of modules. These connectors enable quick connection and disconnection without specialized tools or equipment, reducing dependence on expensive specialized moving equipment and large storage facilities.
4Strength
If set elements are joined to form unified structures, then structural integrity is improved, but reconfiguration flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is segmented into modules connected by standardized connectors that provide both structural integrity and reconfigurability. The connectors are designed to maintain strong structural connections during use while enabling efficient disassembly and reconfiguration when needed, resolving the contradiction between strength and flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system transitions from permanent fixed joints to dynamic reversible connections. The standardized connectors maintain structural integrity during performance but allow for efficient reconfiguration between different set designs, providing both strength and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
An interchangeable kit for scenery having: a first wall unit and a second wall unit, each wall unit having: a first face to simulate a first surface, a second face to simulate a second surface different than the first surface and a plurality of first connector elements; an aperture unit comprising: a first face to simulate a first door or window, or having an operable first door or window; a second face to simulate a second door or window, or having an operable second door or window different than the first door or window and a plurality of second connector elements; and wherein the first plurality of connector elements connect a given wall unit to at least one other wall unit or aperture unit, and the second plurality of connector elements connect a given aperture unit to at least one other aperture or wall unit.