Modular Trellis Sections with Integrated Self-Supporting Legs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular trellis and fence systems are bulky, difficult to install, and lack flexibility and aesthetic appeal, making them inefficient for residential and commercial gardening needs.
Innovation Solution
A modular trellis section system formed from rigid vertical and horizontal rods with self-supporting legs and adjustable hooks for easy assembly and configuration, allowing for customizable trellis and fence structures using rails and mesh screens, which can be easily disassembled and reconfigured.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If preformed wire frames are used for trellis structures, then the structure provides plant support, but the structure becomes bulky and difficult to store, transport and maneuver for installation
Solution Approach 1:
The trellis structure is divided into multiple modular panels that can be independently handled, stored, and transported. Each panel contains integrated support elements and connection mechanisms, allowing the overall structure to be segmented into manageable units that maintain functionality while improving portability and storage efficiency.
2Reliability
If collapsible wire structures with separate supporting posts are used, then the structure can be assembled, but separate posts must be driven into the ground and wire panels must be individually secured, requiring significant time and manpower for installation
Solution Approach 1:
The supporting posts and wire panels are merged into single integrated modular units. Each panel incorporates its own support elements and connection mechanisms, eliminating the need for separate posts and individual securing operations. The panels can be quickly connected to form complete trellis structures, dramatically reducing installation time and labor requirements while maintaining structural integrity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If flexible netting is used that can be rolled on supporting poles, then the structure is flexible, but the structure becomes complex and requires attachment of netting material to crossbars mounted on poles
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible netting is segmented into modular panels with integrated support structures. Each panel is a self-contained unit that maintains flexibility while eliminating the need for separate crossbars and complex attachment mechanisms. The panels can be easily connected to form various configurations, preserving adaptability while reducing overall system complexity.
4Strength
If planar trellis and wall systems are formed from stamped and extruded metal channels joined by fasteners, then the structure is durable, but tools such as screwdrivers and wrenches are required for securing parts together
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanisms are merged into the modular panels themselves, with integrated fastening systems that eliminate the need for separate tools. The panels incorporate self-aligning and self-securing features that allow for tool-free or minimal-tool assembly, maintaining structural durability while significantly improving assembly ease and reducing the need for specialized tools.
Data Source
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AI summary
Modular trellis sections of aesthetic appearance that are manually portable and easily installed in residential or commercial gardens, and that can be arrayed to form a linear, a partially enclosed, or an entirely enclosed trellis fence are configured as a basic rectilinear frame formed from a pair of rigid generally parallel vertical rods to which are permanently secured in co-planar relation a first horizontal rod extending between the upper ends of the vertical rods and a second horizontal rod at a predetermined distance from the lower free ends of the vertical rods to define a pair of supporting legs, and vertically spaced rigid supporting hooks that are secured in co- planar relation to the inner facing surfaces of the vertical rods, the openings of the supporting hooks being configured and dimensioned to receive horizontal rails and open mesh wire panels that extend between and link the trellis sections to form a fence. The several configurations of trellis sections, along with other accessories are well suited for sale as kits for installation by both residential gardeners and commercial growers.