Trampoline Cover Frame Assembly for Net-Free Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trampoline covers are cumbersome and complicated to install and remove, requiring partial detachment of the safety net from the poles, which is inefficient and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A trampoline cover design featuring a flexible sheet with pockets and a frame assembly that allows for quick installation and removal without detaching the safety net, using a peripheral frame and transverse members that span across the frame to support the sheet above the poles, with attachment means for securing the sheet to the poles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing covers are used for trampolines, then the trampoline is protected, but the covers are cumbersome and complicated to erect and disassemble
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is divided into a frame assembly (separate from the safety net) and a flexible sheet, allowing the cover to be installed independently without detaching the safety net from the poles. The frame assembly includes peripheral frame members and transverse members that can be assembled around the poles while the safety net remains attached.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame assembly acts as an intermediary structure between the support poles and the flexible sheet. It provides a mounting framework that attaches to the poles through pockets and attachment means, enabling the flexible sheet to be secured without directly attaching to the poles themselves, thus preserving the safety net attachment.
2Reliability
If existing covers are used for trampolines, then the trampoline is protected, but the safety net must be at least partly detached from the poles for cover installation and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The cover system is segmented into a frame assembly and flexible sheet, with the frame assembly being further segmented into peripheral frame members and transverse members. This segmentation allows the frame to be assembled around the poles independently, eliminating the need to detach the safety net and significantly reducing installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame assembly is designed to be pre-assembled or easily assembled around the support poles before the flexible sheet is attached. The pockets at the upper ends of the poles are prepared in advance, allowing the frame members to be quickly connected without requiring detachment of the safety net or complex on-site assembly.
3Shape
If a frame assembly with transverse members is used, then the flexible sheet can be supported above the poles, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame assembly uses flexible frame members that can bend and conform to the arrangement of the support poles. This flexibility simplifies the assembly process and reduces the need for complex rigid structures, while still providing adequate support for the flexible sheet to form the desired cover shape.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame assembly is designed with universal attachment features (pockets and attachment means) that can accommodate various pole configurations and positions. The transverse members can be positioned at different locations along the peripheral frame members, allowing the same basic structure to adapt to different trampoline setups without requiring complex customizations.
Data Source
AI summary
A trampoline cover for a trampoline having a safety net supported by a plurality of support poles including: a frame assembly comprising a peripheral frame portion of substantially planar form mountable to the upper end of the support poles and one or more transverse members intersecting the peripheral frame member at opposed points to extend across the peripheral frame member spaced from the plane of the peripheral frame member; a flexible sheet detachably attached to the frame assembly; a plurality of pockets at or near the edge of the flexible sheet for engaging with end portions of at least some of the support poles whereby the flexible sheet may be supported above the support poles and frame assembly; and attachment means adjacent each pocket for attaching the flexible sheet to a respective one of the support poles.