Pivoting Post Fastener for Inclined Surfaces
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening devices for posts on uneven or inclined surfaces are cumbersome, require extensive measurements, and cannot withstand high forces such as those from wind or impact, especially when the inclination changes along the fence or railing course.
Innovation Solution
A fastening device with a cylindrical joint sleeve and joint shell that allows for adjustable inclination of posts relative to a base plate, providing both positive and non-positive connections to secure the post vertically while withstanding high forces, and eliminating the need for individual post production and extensive site measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If base plates are welded on at right angles to posts, then posts can be firmly connected to horizontal surfaces, but posts cannot be adjusted to inclined surfaces without extensive measurements and individual fabrication
Solution Approach 1:
The joint shell can pivot rotatably relative to the joint sleeve, allowing the post to be adjusted to different inclinations dynamically. This replaces the static, fixed-angle base plate with a dynamic adjustment mechanism that adapts to varying ground conditions without requiring individual fabrication for each inclination angle.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint assembly (joint sleeve, joint shell, and fitting piece) serves multiple functions: it provides firm connection to the base plate, allows angular adjustment to match ground inclination, and secures the post vertically. This single universal joint mechanism replaces the need for multiple specially-fabricated base plates with different angles.
2Adaptability or versatility
If alignment plates with elongated holes are used to allow post movement on ground sockets, then posts can assume vertical or slightly inclined positions, but the inclination is limited to a few degrees and the device is only suitable for anchoring posts in deep ground
Solution Approach 1:
The joint shell pivots rotatably on the joint sleeve, enabling a much wider range of inclination adjustment compared to the limited movement of alignment plates on collars. The fitting piece with arched lower edges corresponds to the joint shell shape, allowing smooth rotational adjustment to various angles while maintaining secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint is divided into separate components (joint sleeve firmly connected to base plate, joint shell that pivots, and fitting piece that receives the post) allowing independent optimization of each part's function while achieving greater overall adjustability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If hollow-cylindrical bodies with circumferential recesses and coil springs are used to support posts, then posts can be angularly adjusted to ground inclination, but the connection cannot withstand large forces from wind, pressure, or impact
Solution Approach 1:
The coil spring acts as a sacrificial, replaceable element that absorbs impact and dynamic loads, protecting the main structural components (joint sleeve, joint shell, fitting piece) from damage. The spring can be replaced if worn, while the main joint structure remains intact and continues to provide angular adjustment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint assembly combines rigid components (joint sleeve, joint shell, fitting piece made of metal) with a flexible element (coil spring) to create a composite structure that both adjusts to inclination and withstands large forces from wind, pressure, or impact.
4Manufacturing precision
If extensive measurements are performed along the intended fence course before fabrication, then the required slope for each post can be determined, but the process becomes cumbersome, labor-intensive and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The joint assembly enables the installer to self-adjust each post's inclination on-site by pivoting the joint shell to match the ground angle, eliminating the need for pre-measurement and pre-fabrication of angle-specific base plates. The system serves itself by providing universal adaptability that removes the requirement for extensive surveying and custom fabrication.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic adjustment capability allows rapid on-site adaptation to varying inclinations without requiring pre-determined measurements. Each post can be quickly adjusted to match its specific location's ground slope, dramatically increasing installation speed while maintaining precision.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
Figure 6~8
AI summary
For fastening posts to a hard surface or substructure with varying inclination, a fastening device is proposed which, as a support for a post (15), has a base plate (1) that can be firmly connected to the surface or substructure and to which the post (15) can be pivotally connected. The post (15) can thus be brought into an inclined position relative to the base plate (1) and adjusted to the inclination of the surface or substructure so that it assumes a perpendicular position to the surface or substructure.