Post Setting Insert for Fence Posts

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for setting fence posts in concrete require careful positioning, bracing, and maintenance, and do not allow for easy removal or replacement, while also being inefficient in terms of shipping space and cost-effectiveness.

Innovation Solution

A two-piece post setting insert made from plastic resins, comprising identical half-forms that interlock to form a full form with a snap-on level and locking rim, allowing for easy installation, adjustment for levelness, and removal of posts, without the need for expensive mold slides and reducing shipping space.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional methods are used to set fence posts in concrete, then the posts can be securely installed, but the process requires careful positioning, bracing, and maintenance while the concrete sets, and does not allow for easy removal or replacement

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of post installationVSAvoidcomplexity of positioning and bracing requirements

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The insert is divided into two identical half-forms that can be separately transported and assembled on-site. Each half-form contains integrated bracing features and positioning elements, eliminating the need for separate bracing components and simplifying the installation process while maintaining structural integrity during concrete setting.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The insert combines multiple functions into a single integrated component: it provides formwork for the concrete footing, includes built-in bracing structures, incorporates positioning features for the post, and creates a removable sleeve. This merging of functions eliminates the need for multiple separate tools and components, reducing installation complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Productivity

If traditional concrete setting methods are used, then the posts are securely installed, but the process is time-consuming and requires maintenance while the concrete sets

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespeed of post installationVSAvoidtime required for positioning and maintenance during concrete setting

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The insert is pre-assembled with integrated bracing and positioning features before reaching the installation site. The half-forms are manufactured with built-in support structures and alignment elements, so that when assembled in the ground, the entire system is immediately ready for concrete pouring without requiring additional positioning adjustments or maintenance during the setting process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If a sleeve is used for pole installation as described in prior art, then round poles can be installed, but the design serves no purpose with square posts which are more commonly used

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with different post typesVSAvoidsuitability for commonly used square posts

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The insert is designed with a square cross-section that universally accommodates square posts, which are the most commonly used post type. The internal dimensions and geometry of the half-forms are optimized for square configurations, providing reliable support and alignment for square posts while the design could potentially be adapted for other shapes, making it broadly applicable to standard fencing applications.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Volume of moving object

If a two-piece design is used for the insert, then the inserts can be packed more compactedly to reduce shipping costs, but the design must still enable proper assembly and function

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshipping space efficiencyVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity of interlocking half-forms

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The insert is segmented into two identical half-forms that can be nested within each other or stacked compactly for shipping, significantly reducing the volume required for transportation and storage. The segmentation is achieved through simple vertical or horizontal division with matching interlocking features that align the halves during assembly, minimizing the complexity of manufacturing while maximizing shipping efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS7325790B2Post setting insert

Publication Date: 2008.02.05 LEE GARY

AI summary

An insert for assisting and easing the task of setting fence posts or the like into a concrete or aggregate footing. The invention comprises: two identical half-forms, which when faced 180 degrees to each other, interlock together to form a full form, a snap-on level, and locking rim. Installing a post into concrete becomes a much-simplified task by means of the present invention whereby, after boring a posthole into the ground, the installer simply snaps together the identical half-forms, snaps on the snap-on level, then casts the now full form into the concrete; adjusting for levelness while placing the concrete into the posthole. No bracing is required since the only force exerted onto the insert. The post can be slid downwardly into the insert once the concrete has set, then slides the locking rim onto the upper edge perimeter of the full form thus creating a quasi-seal surrounding a perfectly level post.