Nested Hose Support Assembly for Stable Drainage and Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hose support devices are unstable, difficult to set up, flimsy, and large in size, leading to issues such as tipping over, inadequate support, and storage challenges, especially when used on uneven surfaces like campgrounds with recreational vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A hose support assembly comprising interconnected panels and links that adjust between extended and folded orientations, with progressively decreasing saddle heights and nested links for stability and compact storage, featuring elliptical saddles and hinges for secure hose support and easy deployment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing hose support devices are used, then hose support function is provided, but the devices are unstable and tip over when supporting the hose
Solution Approach 1:
The support assembly is divided into multiple interconnected panels joined by hinges, creating a segmented structure that can be configured in stable geometric arrangements (triangles, rectangles) to prevent tipping while maintaining ease of setup through modular assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates movable hinges and adjustable panels that allow dynamic reconfiguration between folded storage state and deployed support state, providing both stability when needed and ease of setup through simple mechanical transformations
2Ease of operation
If existing hose support devices are used, then hose support function is provided, but the devices are difficult to set up and adjust
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional components (support panels, hinges, connecting elements) are merged into an integrated assembly where panels are pre-connected through hinges, reducing the number of separate parts the user must handle and simplifying setup to a single deployment action
Solution Approach 2:
The panels serve multiple functions: providing structural support, forming stable geometric shapes, and enabling adjustable configuration through hinges, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining ease of operation
3Strength
If existing hose support devices are used, then hose support function is provided, but the construction is flimsy and components bend or separate
Solution Approach 1:
The support panels and connecting elements are designed to nest within each other when folded, creating a compact storage configuration that minimizes volume while maintaining strong structural connections through rigid panel joints and secure hinge attachments
4Volume of stationary object
If existing hose support devices are used, then hose support function is provided, but the devices are large in size and difficult to store
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions dynamically between a compact folded state for easy storage in small spaces and a deployed expanded state for hose support, with hinges enabling simple mechanical transformation between configurations without requiring complex assembly procedures
Data Source
AI summary
A hose support assembly for supporting a hose. The hose support assembly includes a series of panels that are connected together by links. The assembly is adjustable between an extended orientation to support the hose, and a folded orientation for storage when not in use. The panels are configured such that the assembly supports the hose at a decreasing height above the ground to facilitate drainage of fluids in the hose.