Separable Wedge Support for Easy Glass Panel Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wedge securing mechanisms in open-topped channels or troughs for glass panels are difficult to remove once secured, as the wedges are tightly gripped and lack a straightforward method for adjustment or repositioning.
Innovation Solution
A wedge support system with a tool socket allows for the separation of its portions, enabling the wedge to be freely moved within the gap for repositioning or removal by inserting a tool into the socket, which can be mechanical, solvent-activated, or pressure-released, facilitating adjustable securing and releasing of the wedge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a wedge is forced into the gap between the glass panel and channel to secure the panel, then the panel is gripped tightly and secured in position, but the wedge becomes difficult to remove and the panel cannot be easily repositioned
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge support is divided into a first portion and a second portion that can be separated from each other. The first portion remains in the channel while the second portion with the wedge can be removed independently. This segmentation allows the wedge to be securely held during installation while enabling easy removal and repositioning by separating the two portions.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge support acts as an intermediary device between the wedge and the channel. It provides a structured interface that includes a tool socket, allowing a removal tool to be inserted and facilitate separation of the first and second portions. This intermediary mechanism enables controlled release of the wedge without direct force on the wedge itself.
2Strength
If a tapered wedge is forced into the gap to grip the panel tightly, then the panel is secured firmly, but adjustment and repositioning become difficult without damaging the glass panel
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the wedge support into separable first and second portions, the system maintains strong gripping force through the wedge while allowing the second portion to be removed with the wedge for adjustment. The first portion remains in the channel, preserving the secure connection, while the second portion can be reused after repositioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge support system enables self-service adjustment through the tool socket mechanism. A removal tool inserted into the socket facilitates separation of the portions, allowing users to easily adjust or reposition panels without requiring special tools or techniques that might damage the glass.
Data Source
AI summary
Open-topped channels/troughs are often used as a footing in which glass panels may be placed and secured substantially vertically. A tapered wedge may be forced into the gap around the panel. As gradually wider portions of the wedge are forced into the gap, the panel is gripped ever tighter. However, it is often difficult to remove panels secured in this manner. The present invention provides a wedge support which can be separated into two portions by the insertion of a tool into a tool socket. In this way, if a wedge is used with the wedge support, the wedge support may be removed with the tool thereby permitting easy removal of the wedge.