Plant Support Frame with Interlocking Bracing Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plant support structures lack versatility and efficiency in accommodating plants of varying sizes and growth requirements, as they often require multiple components and complex assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A plant support frame comprising multiple bracing members of different diameters and support rods, secured using fasteners like U-bolts, clamps, and clips, allowing for adjustable angles and removable segments for easy assembly and adaptation to various plant types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If existing plant support structures use multiple components and complex assembly processes, then structural stability is improved, but ease of assembly and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple bracing members into a single integrated structure with interconnected segments that form a stable geometric framework. The bracing members are designed with joined sections that create rigid triangular and rectangular patterns, providing structural stability while reducing the number of separate components that need to be assembled compared to traditional multi-component support structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracing members are divided into multiple segments with standardized connection points and attachment mechanisms. These segmented sections can be easily connected and disconnected at predefined locations, allowing for simple assembly and disassembly while maintaining structural integrity through the geometric configuration of the connected segments.
2Strength
If plant support structures are designed for specific plant types, then structural optimization is improved, but adaptability to varying plant sizes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support frame incorporates adjustable elements including variable-height bracing members, repositionable connection points, and flexible attachment mechanisms that allow the structure to be dynamically reconfigured. Users can adjust the height, shape, and spacing of the bracing members to match different plant growth patterns and sizes, transforming a static structure into an adaptable system that maintains structural optimization for various plant types.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracing members are designed with universal connection interfaces and standardized dimensions that enable the same structural components to serve multiple functions across different plant support applications. The geometric framework can be configured to support various plant types from small herbs to larger vegetables, making the structure universally applicable while maintaining structural optimization through proper geometric configuration.
3Ease of manufacture
If plant support structures use fixed configurations, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but ease of repair and adjustment deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The bracing members are constructed as segmented modules with standardized connection interfaces, allowing individual sections to be manufactured separately using simple, repeatable processes. The segmentation enables easy replacement of damaged sections without requiring complete structure replacement, and the standardized interfaces simplify both manufacturing and field adjustment operations.
Solution Approach 2:
While maintaining simple manufacturing through standardized component design, the structure incorporates adjustable features such as repositionable connection points, removable segments, and flexible attachment mechanisms that enable easy field adjustments and repairs. Users can modify the configuration by simply repositioning or replacing individual segments without complex tools or procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
In one series of embodiments there is provided a bracing member for a plant support frame. In embodiments the bracing member comprises a body portion defining a perimeter; an opening provided within the body portion which is sized and dimensioned to receive a plant there through; and a plurality of radially oriented circumferential holes extending through the body portion. The holes being sized to accept a cooperating fastener for securing a support rod to the bracing member for forming the plant support frame. The different bracing members of a plant support frame are dimensioned for storage in a flat concentric arrangement whereby the circumferential holes of an inner bracing member align with the circumferential holes of an outer bracing member for receiving a locking pin there through for securing different bracing members together.