Universal Ground Anchoring Assembly with Foot-Operated Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for temporarily fixing equipment to the ground in urban spaces for specific events are either permanent, limited to specific types of equipment, or lack effective locking mechanisms, and often require manual operation with both hands.
Innovation Solution
A temporary fixing assembly with a universal end piece that engages and locks onto an anchoring stud, utilizing a locking spring and retractable locking balls, and an unlocking tool that allows single-operator operation with the feet, enabling hands-free unlocking and adaptation to any type of equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If a direct anchoring stud forming part of the equipment is used, then permanent anchoring is achieved, but temporary fixing is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The anchoring system employs a movable barrel that can slide between locked and unlocked positions, transforming a static permanent anchor into a dynamic temporary fixture. The barrel's mobility allows the system to adapt between secure fixed state and easy removal state, resolving the contradiction between temporary duration and fixing security.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchoring stud is divided into distinct functional segments: a fixed barrel anchored in ground, a movable barrel for locking/unlocking, and a connection piece for equipment attachment. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, enabling both secure temporary fixing and easy removal.
2Adaptability or versatility
If anchoring studs of different kinds are used for different equipment, then specific equipment is secured, but universality is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connection piece features a standardized interface with a groove and protrusion that can engage with any anchoring stud of the same type, regardless of the specific equipment attached. This universal interface design allows a single anchoring stud design to serve multiple equipment types, eliminating the need for different stud varieties.
3Reliability
If locking means are added to secure equipment, then fixing security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is self-actuating through spring pressure. When the connection piece is inserted, the spring automatically pushes the movable barrel into the locked position without requiring additional actuators, motors, or complex control systems. The system locks itself upon installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The retractable ball acts as an intermediary element between the movable barrel and the connection piece. It translates the simple axial movement of the barrel into a secure radial locking action, providing reliable locking with minimal structural complexity.
4Ease of operation
If manual unlocking with both hands is required, then security is maintained, but operator convenience is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces the need for manual two-handed operation with a mechanical foot-operated release mechanism. The operator uses foot pressure to actuate the release, freeing both hands for other tasks while maintaining secure controlled access through the specialized tool requirement.
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 assembly provides secure, temporary, and universal fixing of equipment, allowing single-operator unlocking and adaptation to various types of equipment, ensuring efficient and safe installation and removal processes.
Implementation Method 1
a locking spring working in compression is arranged between an abutment integral with the upper part of the fixed barrel and an abutment integral with the lower part of the movable barrel, to allow the return and maintenance of the movable barrel in its locking position
Implementation Method 2
at least one orifice formed in the wall of the fixed barrel and receiving a retractable locking ball of diameter substantially greater than the diameter of the orifice so that the ball is capable of protruding inside said barrel to come, in a locking position, to be partially housed in an annular groove present on the wall of the connection piece
Implementation Method 3
a lower part of internal diameter greater than the outer diameter of the fixed barrel so as to define a space between said barrels, the two parts being delimited by a slope intended to abut against the retractable locking ball and force it it to protrude inside the fixed barrel when the movable barrel is in its locking position
Implementation Method 4
a part forming an arm of lever adapted to be actuated to cause said tool to pivot around the point of contact with the ground or the part of the anchoring stud, to lift said unlocking ring and to move the movable shaft into its unlocked position
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~8
AI summary
The assembly (1) has a hollow anchoring stud (2) that is fixed in the ground. A universal connection end (3) is ready to be engaged inside the anchoring stud. A fixed barrel (9) is arranged inside the anchoring stud, and is intended to receive the universal connection end. A mobile barrel (10) is provided in a locking position in which the mobile barrel cooperates with a locking/unlocking unit for locking of the end with regard to the stud, and an unlocking position in which the mobile barrel cooperates with the locking/unlocking unit for unlocking of the end with regard to the stud.