Outdoor Sign Assembly with Fluid-Conducting Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Outdoor display signs are prone to damage from weather-related moisture, which can lead to mildew and corrosion, and require significant disassembly for servicing, making them unreliable and difficult to maintain.
Innovation Solution
A weather-resistant sign assembly featuring a framework with fluid-conducting channels and gaskets to direct water away from the sign, allowing for partial disassembly of only the necessary components for service without affecting the entire structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If outdoor display signs are exposed to weather elements, then they can be displayed outdoors, but moisture causes damage including mildew and corrosion
Solution Approach 1:
The framework is divided into separate components with integrated water channels in each element. The sign face panels are segmented from the framework, allowing independent service of specific panels without removing the entire structure. This segmentation enables moisture management at multiple levels while maintaining outdoor display capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Water channels act as intermediary elements between the sign face panels and the external environment. These channels intercept moisture before it reaches the sign panels and framework interior, directing water away through designated paths. The channels serve as a protective mediator that prevents direct contact between harmful moisture and vulnerable components.
2Ease of repair
If the entire sign assembly is disassembled for servicing, then all components can be accessed, but significant time and labor are required
Solution Approach 1:
The sign assembly is segmented into serviceable modules including individual sign face panels that can be independently removed and serviced. The framework is divided into separable components with water channels integrated in each element. This modular segmentation allows technicians to access and service specific components without disassembling the entire structure, significantly reducing service time while maintaining comprehensive component accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The framework incorporates movable and adjustable components that can be dynamically reconfigured during servicing. The water channels are designed with accessible sections that can be independently accessed or replaced. This dynamic design allows the structure to transition from a fixed assembly to a reconfigurable system during maintenance operations.
3Reliability
If water channels are integrated into the framework, then water can be directed away from the sign, but the framework becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The water channels are merged with the framework elements rather than being separate additions. The channels are integrated into the framework components themselves, combining structural support and water diversion functions into single elements. This merging approach provides reliable water resistance while avoiding the complexity of separate water management systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The framework elements serve multiple functions simultaneously: providing structural support, directing water away from the sign, and enabling modular assembly. The water channels are designed to perform both water diversion and structural roles. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity by eliminating the need for dedicated separate components for each function.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The sign assembly effectively prevents water damage and facilitates easy maintenance by channeling water away and using gaskets to ensure moisture does not enter the sign, maintaining operational reliability and reducing servicing complexity.
Implementation Method 1
each of the frame members having a respective elongate, fluid-conducting channel formed lengthwise therein
Implementation Method 2
a channel gasket that is positioned or disposed in the substantially vertical channel of the vertical channel member. The channel gasket is compressed between a portion of the vertical channel member and the distal edge of the right edge region of the left sign face panel and the distal edge of the left edge region of the right sign face panel
Data Source
AI summary
An outdoor sign assembly includes a perimeter framework with fluid-directing channels to direct water off of the sign during inclement weather, and further includes individually removable sign face panels that are configured to support individual indicia members including lettering, numbers, symbols, designs, or the like, including internally-lighted indicia. The sign face panels cooperate with the framework to direct water around and off of the sign assembly, and may be placed in side-by-side arrangement to achieve any desired length. During assembly or disassembly, the sign face panels are held relatively securely to the framework, even before mechanical fasteners are fully tightened.