Modular Trench Drain Alignment and Support System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional modular trench drain systems are labor-intensive and material-consuming during installation, requiring multiple workers and non-reusable components like anchors and brackets, which increases costs and environmental impact.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of elongate frames and adjustable support brackets that allow for the alignment and interconnection of modular channel sections as a single unit, reducing the need for multiple anchors and brackets, and enabling more efficient alignment and connection processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional modular trench drain systems are installed using multiple anchors and brackets for each channel section, then the channel sections can be securely positioned and aligned, but the installation becomes labor-intensive and consumes valuable materials that cannot be reused
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple anchors and brackets into a single integrated support structure. The support structure includes a first support element with a first anchor and a second support element with a second anchor, where the support elements are connected to provide combined positioning and alignment functions, reducing the total number of separate components needed while maintaining secure channel section placement
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: the anchors provide secure attachment to the ground, the support elements provide positioning and alignment references, and the combined structure reduces the need for temporary covers. This multi-functional design improves installation efficiency while maintaining reliability
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple workers are deployed to complete the installation process, then the trench drain system can be installed accurately, but the labor costs and installation time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure enables self-alignment of the channel sections through its designed geometry and attachment mechanisms. The structure provides built-in alignment references that allow workers to quickly position channel sections without requiring multiple workers for continuous adjustment and verification, reducing both labor costs and installation time while maintaining accuracy
3Reliability
If non-reusable anchors and brackets are used to secure channel sections in place, then the channel sections can be firmly fixed during installation, but material waste increases and environmental impact worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the support structure to be reusable after the concrete pour. The support elements and anchors are positioned to remain exposed or be easily accessible after installation, allowing them to be removed and reused for future projects. This recovering approach reduces material waste and environmental impact while maintaining firm fixation during the installation process
4Reliability
If temporary covers are used to prevent concrete from spilling into channels during the pour, then the channel sections are protected, but additional materials and labor are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the protective function from separate temporary covers and integrates it into the support structure itself. The support elements are designed to remain in place or be easily positioned after the concrete pour, eliminating the need for separate temporary cover materials and reducing installation complexity while maintaining channel section protection
Data Source
AI summary
A trench drain system includes first and second channel sections each having side portions, end portions, a bottom portion, and a trough portion, and at least one securing member configured to connect and align the first and the second channel sections such that the first and the second channel sections form an assembly. The assembly having a first end portion and a second end portion at opposite ends, and the connection between the first and the second channel sections is sufficiently rigid such that the first and the second channel sections remain connected and aligned relative to each other when the assembly is supported only by the first and the second end portions.