Railing Support Post with Adjustable Clamping for Glass Panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional railing systems with glass panels obstruct visibility and are not adaptable to different glass thicknesses, and designs that place glass panels near the floor hinder snow or debris removal from decks and balconies.
Innovation Solution
A railing support apparatus with a base secured to a horizontal surface and a vertical post featuring clamping surfaces that grip glass panels, allowing for adjustable spacing and reduced visual obstruction, enabling easy snow or debris removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If glass panels are used in conventional railing systems with posts and rails, then visibility is improved, but the posts and rails still obstruct visibility and the system is not adaptable to different glass thicknesses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the traditional posts and rails from the railing system, extracting only the essential support function. The glass panels are supported directly by mounting structures attached to the deck surface, eliminating the visual obstruction caused by conventional posts and rails while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting structure is designed to accommodate glass panels of various thicknesses through adjustable clamping mechanisms. The same basic structure can adapt to different glass specifications without requiring replacement of the entire railing system, providing universal applicability.
2Illumination intensity
If glass panels are installed adjacent to the floor to form a barrier, then visibility is improved, but snow or debris removal from the deck is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of placing glass panels vertically adjacent to the floor surface, the patent elevates the support mechanism into the air space above the deck. The mounting structures are attached to the deck surface but extend upward to support glass panels at a height that clears the deck surface, allowing snow and debris to be removed freely while maintaining the barrier function.
3Strength
If thicker and stronger materials are used in conventional railings, then safety and security are improved, but visual obstruction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from opaque or translucent glass to clear glass panels, maintaining the required strength and safety while dramatically improving visibility. The clear glass allows light to pass through freely, providing unobstructed views while still functioning as a safety barrier.
Data Source
AI summary
A panel support post comprises a base securable to a mounting surface and an upright member extending substantially vertically from the base. The upright member has a first clamping surface formed by an upright surface thereof. The panel support post further comprises a clamping member having a bottom edge vertically spaced above said base and having a second clamping surface thereon in opposed spaced apart relation to the first clamping surface, the clamping member being drawable towards the first clamping surface. The first and second clamping surfaces are located vertically spaced above the mounting surface so as to support the barrier panel vertically spaced apart from the mounting surface.