Window Object Support Using Opposing Interior and Exterior Forces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for securing objects near or partially outside building windows, such as air conditioning units and plants, pose safety risks due to the potential for objects to fall, particularly in urban areas, and often require modifications or damage to the building when support structures fail.
Innovation Solution
A modular apparatus comprising first, second, and third members that extend along the window and exert opposing forces on interior and exterior surfaces of the building to securely support objects without damaging the building, using adjustable and reversible coupling mechanisms to accommodate various sizes and configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If support structures are built into the building to secure objects at windows, then the objects are securely supported, but the building is permanently altered or damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is divided into separate components: interior support members that contact the interior surface and exterior support members that contact the exterior surface, connected by coupling mechanisms. This segmentation allows the system to provide reliable support without requiring permanent modification to the building structure, as each component can be independently positioned and adjusted.
Solution Approach 2:
Coupling mechanisms serve as intermediaries connecting the interior and exterior support members. These couplings transmit forces between the interior and exterior surfaces while allowing for adjustment and removal, enabling reliable object support without direct permanent attachment to the building structure.
2Stability of the object's composition
If traditional support structures are used to secure objects, then the objects remain stable, but safety risks increase due to potential falling
Solution Approach 1:
The support system applies opposing forces to counteract the weight of supported objects. Interior support members exert outward forces on the interior surface while exterior support members exert inward forces on the exterior surface, creating a balanced system that reliably prevents objects from falling without requiring excessive attachment strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The support system transitions from traditional single-side attachment to a multi-dimensional approach by distributing support forces across both interior and exterior surfaces of the building. This dimensional expansion provides redundant support paths, enhancing object stability and eliminating falling hazards even if one support element fails.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If modular apparatus with opposing forces is used, then building damage is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support members and coupling mechanisms are designed with universal functionality to perform multiple roles: providing structural support, applying opposing forces to prevent building damage, and enabling easy assembly and disassembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized components, thereby managing complexity while achieving building protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The support system incorporates adjustable and reversible coupling mechanisms that allow dynamic reconfiguration. This enables the system to adapt to different object weights and positions while maintaining a relatively simple base structure, balancing complexity with versatility and building protection capabilities.
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 apparatus effectively secures objects at windows while complying with safety regulations and municipal ordinances, preventing damage to the building and ensuring the objects remain stable against downward forces without the need for additional mechanical support.
Implementation Method 1
The first member is configured to support the object by exerting an outward force on the interior surface of the building in response to a downward force exerted by the object
Implementation Method 2
The second member is configured to support the object by exerting an inward force on an exterior surface of the building in response to the downward force exerted by the object
Implementation Method 3
The third member is also configured to support the object by exerting an inward force on the exterior surface of the building in response to the downward force exerted by the object
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for supporting an object at a window of a building comprises a first member, a second member, and a third member. The first member extends along at least a partial width of the window and abuts an interior surface of the building. The first member is configured to support the object by exerting an outward force on the interior surface of the building in response to a downward force exerted by the object. The first member also comprises at least two sections extending from the interior of the building to the exterior of the building. These sections may extend from the interior of the building to the exterior of the building about respective distal ends of the first member. The sum of the forces applied on the surfaces of the building are sufficient to secure the object to the building.