Nested Signpost Coupler Structure for High Wind Loads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing couplers for signposts are not strong enough to withstand high wind loads, leading to potential failure and instability of the signposts.
Innovation Solution
A coupler design featuring an inner and outer hollow rectangular shaft member with a support member and vertically configured veins, which securely engages C-shaped stakes and enhances structural strength to resist wind loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a simple coupler design is used, then manufacturing cost and complexity are reduced, but the coupler cannot withstand high wind loads
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler is divided into an outer hollow rectangular shaft member and an inner hollow rectangular shaft member, creating a segmented structure that provides enhanced strength against wind loads while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The inner hollow rectangular shaft member is nested within the outer hollow rectangular shaft member, with the inner member having a perimeter less than the outer member. This nested configuration increases structural strength to resist wind loads while keeping the overall design compact and manufacturable
2Stability of the object's composition
If a single-wall coupler structure is used, then manufacturing is simpler, but the coupler deforms under wind pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler structure is segmented into outer and inner hollow rectangular shaft members with a gap between them, creating a multi-chamber configuration that resists deformation under wind pressure while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized fabrication processes
Solution Approach 2:
The design transitions from a single-wall structure to a multi-dimensional hollow shaft configuration with outer and inner members. This dimensional change creates structural stability against wind pressure while the standardized hollow shaft geometry keeps manufacturing straightforward
3Strength
If the inner and outer shaft members are tightly fitted, then structural strength increases, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The inner hollow rectangular shaft member is nested within the outer member with a deliberate gap between them. This nested arrangement provides structural strength through the combined rigidity of both members while the gap eliminates the need for tight tolerances, simplifying manufacturing and assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The design预先 establishes a gap between the inner and outer shaft members during the manufacturing planning stage. This preliminary decision to include spacing rather than tight fitting allows for easier manufacturing and assembly while still achieving the required structural strength through the combined action of both hollow shaft members
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a coupler for engaging C shaped stakes of a signpost. The coupler comprises an inner hollow rectangular shaft member and an outer hollow rectangular shaft member. Specifically, the outer hollow rectangular shaft member surrounds the inner hollow rectangular shaft member. The coupler further comprises a plurality of veins configured to run vertically on inner surface of the outer hollow rectangular shaft member and outer surface of the inner hollow rectangular shaft member and a support member configured within the gap of the inner hollow rectangular shaft member and the outer hollow rectangular shaft member at midportion to support C shaped stake thereon and to stop another C shaped member to move upward from lower side.