Modular Workstation Kit With Passthrough Support for Safe Cutting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current work support structures in construction, renovation, maintenance, and DIY settings are often unstable, pose safety hazards due to risk of cutting through or into trestle beams, and lack reconfigurability to accommodate various tools and workpieces, requiring multiple dedicated stands and limiting access to all sides of the workpiece.
Innovation Solution
A modular kit of parts using a notch and channel, notch and ear, or rail and channel connector system that allows users to assemble portable, reconfigurable workpiece and workstation structures, providing stability and securement for tools and workpieces, with features like cross-cut passthrough notches and clamp apertures for secure tool mounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional trestle supports are used, then workpiece support is provided, but the structure is unstable and poses safety hazards due to interference between legs
Solution Approach 1:
The work support structure is divided into separate modular components: legs, cross members, and rails that can be independently assembled and configured. This segmentation allows the structure to be stable when assembled correctly while remaining portable and reconfigurable by allowing users to disassemble and rearrange components as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The structure incorporates adjustable and movable elements, including legs that can be positioned at different angles and cross members that can be rearranged. This dynamic design enables the structure to adapt to different work scenarios while maintaining stability during use, resolving the contradiction between stability and portability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated tool stands are provided for each tool type, then optimal tool support is achieved, but device complexity and the number of required structures increases
Solution Approach 1:
The modular kit is designed to serve multiple functions: it can support hand-held tools, power tools, and workpieces simultaneously. The standardized connection system allows the same basic components to be configured for different tool types and work scenarios, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated stands and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The design merges the functions of different tool stands and work supports into a single integrated system. By combining legs, cross members, and rails into one modular kit that can be configured for various purposes, the system reduces the number of separate devices needed while maintaining optimal support for different tools and workpieces.
3Ease of operation
If a table-based work support is used, then stable support is provided, but access to the underside of the workpiece is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a solid table top that blocks access, the design segments the support structure into legs and cross members that can be positioned around the workpiece. This allows the workpiece to be accessed from all sides while still providing stable support through the distributed leg and cross member configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The design transitions from a two-dimensional table surface to a three-dimensional structure with legs and cross members positioned at multiple levels and angles. This dimensional change allows access to the underside of the workpiece while maintaining stability through the spatial distribution of support elements.
4Weight of moving object
If collapsible trestle and column supports are used, then portability is improved, but the risk of cutting through the support structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is segmented into separate legs, cross members, and rails with standardized connection points. This segmentation allows the structure to be collapsed for portability while maintaining structural integrity during use, as each component can be independently positioned and secured to prevent cutting through the support structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized connection system acts as an intermediary between the leg and cross member components. This intermediary connection mechanism ensures that when the structure is assembled, it provides stable support that resists cutting forces, while still allowing for easy assembly and disassembly for portability.
Data Source
AI summary
A kit of modular parts from which the user may assemble portable multi-configurable work stations, work support structures or structures that perform both functions alternately or concurrently; whose support does not derive from a continuous surface.