Post Securing Device with Segmented Support Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for securing posts in the ground, such as screw piles and concrete footings, are inadequate in withstanding high lateral forces and are difficult to remove and re-use without complex machinery.
Innovation Solution
A device with a central portion and support members that engage a post at multiple points around its circumference and length, using cutting edges to penetrate the ground and secure the post against shear forces, allowing for easy installation and removal without permanent attachments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If screw piles or concrete footings are used to secure posts, then the posts can withstand lateral forces, but they become permanently fixed and difficult to remove without complex machinery
Solution Approach 1:
The securing device is divided into a central portion and multiple support members that can be independently positioned. The support members are segmented into first portions (with support elements engaging the post) and second portions (penetrating the ground), allowing the device to be assembled and disassembled in sections for easy removal and relocation while maintaining structural integrity during use
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from a static permanent fixation system to a dynamic reversible system. The support members can be driven into the ground to provide secure anchoring, then removed and relocated to different positions, enabling the post to be temporarily secured rather than permanently fixed, thus improving ease of operation and relocation
2Reliability
If permanent fixation systems are used, then the posts are securely anchored, but they cannot be easily removed or re-used at different sites
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into removable support members that can be driven into the ground at different locations. This segmentation allows the same device components to be reused at multiple sites by simply driving the support members into new positions, thereby improving adaptability and reusability while maintaining reliable anchoring at each location
Solution Approach 2:
The securing device is designed as a universal system that can be applied to posts at different locations and orientations. The support members can penetrate the ground at various angles and positions, making the device adaptable to different site conditions and post configurations, thus enhancing versatility and reusability across multiple locations
3Stability of the object's composition
If conventional securing systems are used, then the posts are fixed in place, but they collapse under severe weather conditions with sustained strong winds
Solution Approach 1:
The support members are designed with differentiated local qualities: the first portions have support elements optimized for engaging the post at specific locations, while the second portions have penetrating capabilities optimized for ground engagement. This local optimization of structural properties at different parts of the device enhances overall resistance to lateral forces while maintaining stable post positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The device merges multiple functions into a single integrated structure: the central portion provides circumferential engagement with the post, while the support members provide both post engagement and ground penetration. This merging of functions creates a unified securing system that effectively resists high lateral forces from severe weather while maintaining stable positioning
Data Source
AI summary
A device (100) for securing a post (105) comprises a central portion (110) defining an aperture (115) therethrough configured to engage the post (105) and two or more support members (120) extending outwardly from the central portion (110). Each support member (120) comprises a first portion (125) and a second portion (130), the first and second portions (125, 130) each comprising at least one support element (135, 140) configured to extend towards and further engage the post (105). The second portion (130) is configured to penetrate a post-mounting surface (132) in a substantially longitudinal direction relative to the post (105), thereby securing the post (105) with respect to shear forces acting on the post (105) in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.