Smartflag Base-Mounted Drum Mechanism for Automated Flag Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flag-raising and lowering systems are limited by their inability to automatically manage multiple flags, often require manual handling, and can be dangerous due to motor placement at the top of the flagpole, which complicates maintenance and increases the risk of damage.
Innovation Solution
A device mounted at the base of the flagpole featuring two sets of drums controlled by motors, with a pulley system at the top, allowing for automatic and simultaneous raising and lowering of multiple flags or pennants, powered by solar cells or external sources, and programmable for hands-free operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If the motor is placed at the top of the flagpole, then the flag can be raised and lowered automatically, but the system becomes dangerous and maintenance becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The motor is extracted from the top of the flagpole and relocated to the base. This removes the dangerous heavy object from the elevated position while maintaining the automatic raising and lowering function through the line and drum mechanism at the base.
Solution Approach 2:
A line acts as an intermediary element, transmitting the mechanical force from the motor at the base to the flag at the top. The line connects the motor's drum to the flag, allowing automatic operation without placing the motor at the elevated position.
2Device complexity
If only one flag can be raised at a time, then the system is simple, but the system cannot meet public requirements for multiple flags
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into multiple independent drum mechanisms, each capable of handling a separate flag. The motor can sequentially or simultaneously operate multiple drums, allowing multiple flags to be raised and lowered independently while maintaining the overall system's manageable complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor and drum mechanism are designed as universal components that can handle multiple flags. Each drum can be independently controlled to raise or lower different flags, making the system versatile for displaying multiple flags simultaneously or sequentially.
3Device complexity
If manual handling is required to raise and lower flags, then the system is simple, but continuous human presence is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system is equipped with automatic control mechanisms including sensors, timers, and programmable logic that enable self-service operation. The motor automatically activates to raise or lower flags based on programmed schedules or sensor inputs, eliminating the need for continuous human presence while maintaining operational simplicity.
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
Enables safe, efficient, and automated management of multiple flags or pennants, reducing manual intervention and maintenance risks while ensuring reliable operation across various climates.
Implementation Method 1
The device is driven by electric motors receiving power via an external power source or by for example by charging a battery using solar cells
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for automatically raising and lowering of at least one flag or pennant comprising at least one flag or pennant, a flagpole, a line and a container. The container has at least two chambers, each chamber has at least one drum. The drum is controlled by at least one motor, a line extending from a first drum via a guide in the top of the flagpole to a second drum.