Support Foot Catch Mechanism for Quick Profiled Section Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support feet for rooftop installations are inefficient in quickly fixing profiled section elements, particularly when they are lying, as they require time-consuming bolt fixation methods.
Innovation Solution
A support foot with a base part and a separate securing element featuring a movable catch member that automatically secures the profiled section element by sliding along the socket's edge, allowing for quick fixation of both upstanding and lying elements without the need for screws or bolts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If bolts or threaded rods are used to fix the profiled section element to the support foot, then the connection strength is improved, but the installation time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The support foot is divided into two separate parts: a base part and a securing element. The securing element can be inserted into the socket of the base part and features a catch member that engages with the aperture edge of the profiled section element. This segmentation allows for quick insertion and securing without time-consuming bolt fixation, while still providing adequate connection strength for the application.
Solution Approach 2:
The catch member is pre-configured in the securing element to automatically engage with the aperture edge of the profiled section element upon insertion. This preliminary positioning and automatic engagement eliminates the need for manual bolt tightening operations, significantly reducing installation time while maintaining secure connection.
2Productivity
If a separate securing element with movable catch member is used, then the installation speed is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The securing element integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides structural support, contains the movable catch member for automatic engagement, and interfaces with the socket of the base part. By merging these functions into one element rather than using separate bolts, nuts, and mounting brackets, the overall device complexity is reduced while maintaining high installation speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The catch member is designed to automatically engage with the aperture edge of the profiled section element when the securing element is inserted into the socket. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for additional fastening operations or complex adjustment mechanisms, achieving quick installation without proportionally increasing device complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the catch member is movable from pre-assembly position to locking position, then the ease of operation is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The catch member utilizes elastic deformation as it moves from the pre-assembly position to the locking position. By changing the physical state of the catch member from flexible to engaged, it automatically adapts to the aperture edge geometry. This parameter change approach reduces the need for extremely tight manufacturing tolerances while ensuring reliable engagement and easy operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A support foot for supporting a free standing structure on a support surface such as a rooftop includes a holding means for holding a profiled section to which other parts of said structure can be mounted. The profiled section includes at least one wall having apertures formed in it. The support foot includes a base part having a socket. The support foot furthermore includes a securing element adapted to be received in the socket and having at least one movable catch member to catch an edge of one of said apertures so as to secure the profiled section element to the support foot. The catch member is movable from a pre-assembly position, in which it can be inserted through the aperture, to a securing position, in which it engages over the edge of the aperture.