Pivoting Downspout Extension Support to Prevent Grass Damage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gutter downspout extensions are prone to damage, difficult to move, and can cause grass damage or become frozen to the ground, with existing support devices being either ineffective or prone to breaking.
Innovation Solution
A pivoting ground-engaging support stake with a clip that securely attaches to the downspout extension, allowing it to be easily raised above the ground and moved out of the way, preventing damage to grass and equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the downspout extension is placed on the ground, then it is stable and easy to install, but it causes damage to the underlying grass and becomes frozen in cold climates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a support stake as an intermediary element between the downspout extension and the ground. The stake has a ground-engaging end that contacts the ground and an extension-receiving end that holds the extension, preventing direct contact between the extension and ground thereby eliminating grass damage and freezing issues while maintaining stability
2Stability of the object's composition
If the downspout extension is permanently installed, then it is stable, but it cannot be moved for mowing or space utilization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the support stake pivotally connected to the extension rather than permanently fixed. The stake can pivot between a vertical position (providing stability) and a horizontal position (allowing movement and space utilization), enabling the system to adapt between stable operation and movable storage states
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing movable support devices are used, then the extension can be moved, but they break from striking by lawn equipment and people
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by designing the support stake with a tapered ground-engaging end that can absorb and distribute impact forces from lawn equipment and people. The pivot connection also allows the stake to flex and return to position, preventing permanent damage while maintaining reliability
4Object-affected harmful factors
If a support device is added to raise the extension, then grass damage is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the support function into two distinct components: a clip that attaches to the extension and a separate support stake that contacts the ground. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while keeping the overall device relatively simple and manageable
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a durable, easy-to-use support system that maintains the extension above the ground, preventing damage and allowing for easy installation and removal, while also preventing grass marks and accommodating varying ground angles.
Implementation Method 1
a narrow gap therebetween that is configured to removably receive in a friction fit a bottom wall of a downspout extension
Data Source
AI summary
A gutter downspout extension support is used to support the free end of a downspout extension above the ground. The gutter downspout extension support has a clip with a first and second connected legs that are disposed overlapping and at a spaced distance from one another thereby providing a narrow gap therebetween that is configured to removably receive in a friction fit a bottom wall of the downspout extension. A ground engaging support stake having a first end and a tapered second end and a pivot coupling connecting the first end of the ground engaging support stake to the clip such that the ground engaging support stake is pivotable toward and away from the clip.