Trampoline Anchor Fluid Chamber Wind Load Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Trampolines and outdoor inflatable devices pose safety risks due to their lightweight nature and large surface area, which can lead to instability in windy conditions, necessitating effective anchoring solutions to prevent lifting or shifting.
Innovation Solution
A trampoline anchor system featuring a fluid chamber connected to the trampoline frame, filled with fluids like water or sand, and a toroidal enclosure skirt to block airflow and create a weighted, wind-resistant configuration, combined with a ground-penetrating anchor for enhanced stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If trampolines are made lightweight with large surface area, then ease of operation and portability are improved, but stability under wind load deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies counterweight by filling chambers in the anchor device with fluid (water or sand) to create downward force that counteracts the upward lift force generated by wind acting on the trampoline's large surface area. The fluid-filled chambers provide the necessary weight to stabilize the lightweight trampoline structure during windy conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor device is installed and prepared in advance by filling the chambers with fluid before the trampoline is set up or before windy conditions occur. This preliminary weighting ensures the trampoline is already stabilized when exposed to wind, preventing lifting or shifting during operation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If fluid chambers are added to the anchor system, then stability and wind resistance are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the anchor device with the trampoline support structure by integrating fluid-filled chambers into the anchor assembly. This combination allows the anchor to perform dual functions: providing mechanical anchoring to the ground and providing ballast through the fluid-filled chambers, thereby improving stability without requiring entirely separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor device is designed to serve multiple functions: it anchors the trampoline to the ground, provides adjustable ballast through fluid-filled chambers, and can be configured with different chamber arrangements (single, dual, or array) to suit various trampoline sizes and wind conditions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate stabilization equipment.
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 system effectively secures trampolines by distributing weight evenly and blocking airflow, preventing lift and drag forces, thereby ensuring safety and stability during windy conditions.
Implementation Method 1
blocking airflow, preventing lift and drag forces
Implementation Method 2
distributing weight evenly
Data Source
AI summary
A trampoline anchor comprising a trampoline frame, a trampoline bed attached to the trampoline frame, trampoline springs connecting the trampoline frame to the trampoline bed, a fluid chamber formed as a toroidial enclosure, and an outside skirt attached to the fluid chamber, wherein the outside skirt connects between the fluid chamber and the trampoline frame at a fluid chamber skirt connection. The trampoline anchor can also have fluid chamber pods attached to the legs of the trampoline.