Quick-connect and quick detach union or joint and methods for detachably connecting together longitudinal members

Abstract

A quick-connect and quick-detach union or joint for longitudinal members, such as tubes or beams for constructing frames or structures that require assembly and disassembly, and it can be adapted to various shapes and sizes of longitudinal members and is adapted to methods for fabricating these unions using CNC laser tube cutting technology to ensure precise and mistake-proof assembly.

Description

QUICK-CONNECT AND QUICK DETACH UNION OR JOINT AND METHODS FOR DETACHABLY CONNECTING TOGETHER LONGITUDINAL MEMBERSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims benefit of provisional application no. 63 / 565,404 filed on 03 / 14 / 2024.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates to structures, devices, and methods that enable attachable and detachable unions or joints for detachably connecting longitudinal tubing members without adhesives. The present invention further relates to methods of making structures or assemblies comprised of such unions or connections without the need for adhesives and that facilitate assembly and disassembly of structures.Background

[0003] There are prior art methods and apparatuses for connecting or interlocking tubular members, however much of the prior art requires adhesives or welding. Adhesives and welding however are not useful processes to facilitate the creation of unions that allow connection and disconnection of tubular members since both adhesives and welding create permanent bonds, require surface preparation, suffer from environmental and safety issues, and be messy or require skilled techniques or expose users to toxic or flammable chemicals or tools. Accordingly, there is a need for unions and methods of creating unions that omit the need for adhesives or welding.

[0004] Several prior art solutions meet the need by alternate structures and / or methods. For example, US20050160573A1 describes a mandrel with a punching end that is inserted through the smaller tube and into a receiving block. The larger tube is clamped in place, and the mandrel forces the smaller tube through pre-punched holes in the larger tube. The smaller tube subsequently expands inside the larger tube, creating a secure interlock. Variations include pre- punching / pre-cutting holes in the larger tube and forming beads in the smaller tube for added strength. US3071399 utilizes an expandable sleeve insert. A smaller tube is inserted through openings in a larger tube and a flanged sleeve is placed inside the smaller tube. A threaded plug then expands the sleeve, bulging the smaller tube within the larger tube to secure the tubes. US4294561 discloses a jointing member for frame systems. The jointing member has threeperpendicular bores, two of which lie in the same plane. Tightening a set screw in one bore presses a member sideways, binding members in the other bores thereby enabling creating various frame configurations, including T-shapes and elbows. US4490064 describes a releasable joint for modular frame construction. The joint uses a connector member with a serrated cylindrical portion and an enlarged head. The head engages into a T-shaped slot in one frame member, and a screw tightens the connection and allows for angular adjustability between frame members. US4776719 discloses a tubular structural system with graduated tubes and apertures. The tubes are constructed with a plurality of apertures for receiving smaller tubes in a locking configuration. The apertures are strategically placed to allow for orthogonal connections and variations in angles to enable complex structural framework. US6688803B2 discloses connection assemblies for grid structures wherein tubular members are interconnected by penetration, with ridges on one or both elements for added stability.

[0005] While each patent presents unique features that enable connection of tubular members, there remains a need for a union that enables quick connection and disconnection of tubular members, and a method of creating unions such that assemblies or structures employing said unions can be designed that prevent deter assembly mistakes.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0006] The invention may comprise a quick connect and disconnect union or joint for toolless, detachable connection of longitudinal members to other longitudinal members or to other structures or members. The quick-connect and quick detach union or joint may be operated without a wrench or other tool and is generally operable with the pressure applied by thumb or another finger. Aspects of unions may comprise first and second longitudinal members wherein the first longitudinal member includes at least one tab on the distal end of the first longitudinal member and wherein the distal end of the first longitudinal member is received into an aperture in the second longitudinal member and the tab receivable into a slot in the second longitudinal member, and the first longitudinal member is removably secured to the second longitudinal member with securing mechanism such as a spring pin, button, or retractable edge.

[0007] The quick-connect and quick-detach union or joint is particularly well suited for rapid assembly and disassembly of frames or other structures comprised of any variety of structural tubing, wherein the tubing may have a variety of cross-sectional shapes and dimensions, including solid beams or hollow tubing. The quick connect and disconnect union or joint disclosed herein may be scaled in dimension and adapted to alternate shaped longitudinalmembers to accommodate variations of diameters and cross-sectional shapes of longitudinal members. Another aspect of the invention enables mistake deterrent assembly as the quick connect and disconnect union can be designed or specified for fabrication so that only one, or only one of specified longitudinal member(s), may be received into and seat correctly in a second longitudinal member(s). Still further aspects of the invention include a programmable method of fabricating the quick connect and disconnect union using a CNC laser tube cutting apparatus, wherein the program comprises a method of controlling the laser apparatus to cut or process a discrete quick connect and disconnect union by enabling a user controlling a computer to identify the location of quick connect and disconnect union and the program or process of fabricating comprising calling a collection of software or code that controls the cutting or subtractively fabricating of at least one tab on a distal end of a first longitudinal member and cutting or subtractively fabricating an aperture in a second longitudinal member configured or adapted to receive the distal end of the first longitudinal member and cutting or subtractively fabricating at least of slot in the interior surface of the second longitudinal member, the slot configured or adapted to receive the tab on the distal end of the first longitudinal member. Further aspects of the invention may be incorporated in embodiments described with reference to illustrations that accompany this written disclosure without limiting the full scope of the invention expressly described, including equivalents in function or structure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] FIGS. 1A-1C illustrate a first embodiment of the union wherein the union is used to connect first longitudinal member (20) and second longitudinal member (30) that have ovular cross-sectional shapes.

[0009] FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate another example of the embodiment, however the tabs (24) that extend from the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20) and the slots (36) in the second longitudinal member (30) are rotated 90 degrees relative to the position of the tabs (24) and slots (36) in the example of FIGS. 1A-1C.

[0010] FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate another example of the embodiment showing the union wherein the first longitudinal member (20) has a rectangular cross-sectional shape, and the second longitudinal member (30) has an ovular cross-sectional shape.

[0011] FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate another example of the embodiment, however the tabs (24) that extend from the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20) and the slots (36) in the second longitudinal member (30) are rotated 90 degrees relative to the position of the tabs (24) and slots (36) in the example of FIGS. 3A-3C.

[0012] FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate another example of the embodiment showing the union wherein the first longitudinal member (20) has a rectangular cross-sectional shape, and the second longitudinal member (30) also has a rectangular cross-sectional shape.

[0013] FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate another example of the embodiment, however the tabs (24) that extend from the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20) and the slots (36) in the second longitudinal member (30) are rotated 90 degrees relative to the position of the tabs (24) and slots (36) in the example of FIGS. 5A-5C.

[0014] FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate another example of the embodiment showing the union wherein the first longitudinal member (20) has an ovular cross-sectional shape, and the second longitudinal member (30) has a rectangular cross-sectional shape.

[0015] FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate another example of the embodiment, however the tabs (24) that extend from the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20) and the slots (36) in the second longitudinal member (30) are rotated 90 degrees relative to the position of the tabs (24) and slots (36) in the example of FIGS. 7A-7C.

[0016] FIGS. 9A-9C illustrate an assembly comprised of ovular cross-sectional shaped longitudinal members (20) that are receivable into a third member (30).

[0017] FIGS. 10 A- 10C illustrate an assembly comprised of rectangular cross-sectional shaped longitudinal members (20) that are receivable into a third member (30).

[0018] FIGS. 11A-1 ID illustrate various close-up views of the union embodiment wherein the second longitudinal member (30) is cross-sectioned to show the internal receipt of the first longitudinal member (20) into the second longitudinal member (30) and wherein the tab (24) are offset from the longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal member (20) and the slots (36) in the second longitudinal member (30) are uniquely matched in shape, dimension, and position to receive the tabs (24).

[0019] FIGS. 12A-12G illustrate various close-up views wherein the distal end insert (50) is inserted into the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20) and the protruded outward facing surface (56) of the distal end insert (50) has a curved shape that contacts against, andthat is complementary shaped, relative the interior surface of the second longitudinal member (30), and has tab covers (54) that extend outward along and project over, the tabs (24).

[0020] FIG. 13 illustrates a process in accordance with one embodiment and as discussed further herein.

[0021] FIG. 14 illustrates a software routine for designing a structure that deters assembly mistakes when assembling a structure comprised of a first longitudinal member (20) and a second longitudinal member (30) that are connected to a third member (100), in accordance with the embodiment herein.DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0022] Disclosed embodiments of the quick connect and disconnect union may be employed in any of a variety of structures or assemblies comprised at least partly of longitudinal tubing members and wherein at least first and second members, such as but not limited to, longitudinal tubing members are detachably connectable at an angle between the respective longitudinal axis of the first and second longitudinal members. FIGS. 1A - 8C illustrate embodiments wherein a union is adaptable to any of a variety of tubing members having various cross- sectional shapes, including mixes of assemblies or structures wherein ovular shaped tubular members are connectable to rectangular tubular members or vice versa.

[0023] The illustrated embodiment of the union enables a quick connect and disconnect of a first longitudinal member (20) to a second longitudinal member (30), such as during the assembly or disassembly of a structure incorporating the union. The first longitudinal member may include at least one tab (24) that extends or protrudes from a distal end of the first longitudinal member (20) and may include a securing mechanism that enables the first longitudinal member (20) to be removably secured to the second longitudinal member (30) when the members are connected and enables the members to be disconnected or detached such as for disassembly of the structure prior to storage or transport. The securing mechanism may be of any mechanism known in the art that is configured to cause sufficient contact against or penetration of the first longitudinal member (20) and the second longitudinal member (30), or vice versa. The second longitudinal member (30) includes a second longitudinal member first surface, or outer surface, and a second longitudinal member second or interior surface that is substantially opposite the second longitudinal member second surface (35). The second longitudinal member (30) includes an aperture (34) in a first surface of the second longitudinalmember (30) that is configured to receive the cross sectional shape of the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20), and further includes a slot (36) configured in location, size, shape, and placement to receive the tab 24 on the second longitudinal member second surface (35). The union of members is made detachably connectable by the securing mechanism, which may be located between the first and second members at substantially mid-way between the slot (36) and the aperture (34). In preferred embodiments, the first longitudinal member (20) is detachably connected to the second longitudinal member (30) at an angle of between about 10 degrees to about 170 degrees. Moreover, whereas the members (20) & (30) illustrated have circular and square cross-sectional shapes, the union or joint disclosed configured to enable detachable connectability between any of a variety of tubular cross-sectional shapes such as, but not limited to, rectangular, or ovular shapes or hexagonal shapes, etc. Further, the first and second longitudinal members may comprise a solid or hollow beam, tube, rib, or stud, and have any cross-sectional shape, such as but not limited to ovular or rectangular, and in preferred embodiments, will be hollow to reduce mass, material costs, and fabrication costs. Further, the quick connect and disconnect union disclosed enables detachable connections of longitudinal members at various angles between the longitudinal members provided that the tab (24) can be received into a slot (36) in the second longitudinal member (30).

[0024] A tab (24) as used herein may comprise any structural protrusion or shape, that extends from the first longitudinal member (20) distal end, and that is configurable for receipt into an aperture, hole, or negative edge, in the second longitudinal member second surface (35), which when received or seated in the (36), aperture, hole, or negative edge, resists slippage or other lateral movement of the first longitudinal member (20) in any direction other than the insertion - direction of the tab (24) into the (36). Further, as illustrated it may be preferred that two tabs (24) are positioned to extend substantially parallel on and from substantially opposite sides of the distal end of the first longitudinal member first surface (22) and configured in shape, size, and location, for receipt in respectively configured slots (36) positioned in an opposite interior, or second longitudinal member second surface (35), of the second longitudinal member (30), where “opposite interior” is relative to the “outside" or the outer or first surface of the second longitudinal member (30) that includes the aperture (34) into which the first longitudinal member (20) is receivable. As further illustrated in FIGS. 2A-2C and FIGS. 3A-3C, the tab (24) or tabs (24) may also be rotated around the perimeter of the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20) to accommodate design needs or to manufacture structures comprisedof several unions that can be specified during the structure or assembly design to create unique pairings of first longitudinal members (20) to second longitudinal members (30) to as to prevent or deter mistakes or attempts to incorrect assemble a given structure, such as action to incorrectly insert a given first longitudinal member (20) into a second longitudinal member (30), which as designed to receive a different first longitudinal member (20).

[0025] The securing mechanism may comprise any single or combination mechanism or single instance of a screw, set-screw, or pin, or single or double-sided biased or spring button, protrusion, or other crosswise or transverse-oriented member or impediment may cause friction between or preferably traverse at least one but preferably both the surfaces of the first longitudinal member (20) and the second longitudinal member (30) to secure the respective members to each other. In a preferred embodiment, spring button (40) be adapted to function within the first longitudinal member (20) near to the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20) so that the spring button (40) extends from the first longitudinal member (20) orthogonally from the surface of the first longitudinal member (20) and a spring-button hole (37) is included in the second longitudinal member (30) and configured in size and placement to receive the spring button (40) to secure the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20) in the aperture (34) of the second longitudinal member (30) when the tabs (24) of the first longitudinal member (20) are seated in the slots (36) of the second longitudinal member (30).

[0026] In preferred embodiments, the first longitudinal member (20) may include an optional insert comprised of an outward protruded or projected pad or buffer with an outward surface that at least partly contacts against the interior surface shape of the second longitudinal member second surface (35) wherein the outward protruded or projected pad or buffer has sufficient resilience to produce a snug fit of distal end of the first longitudinal member (20) against the second longitudinal member second surface (35). As illustrated, an embodiment of a preferred pad or buffer may comprise a distal end insert (50) that has first end that adapted, configured, or fabricated so that it is receivable and snugly fits within and against the inner diameter of the first longitudinal member (20) and a second end that has an outward projecting surface that is complementary shaped or configured relative to the shape and dimensions of the second longitudinal member second surface (35).

[0027] An example of a preferred distal end insert (50) embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 12E. The distal end insert (50) may comprise a cuboid fabricated or 3D printed with a first end configured to fit within the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20) and have tab covers(54) that each comprise a first portion that extends outward from the protruded outward facing surface (56) of the distal end insert (50) and a second shelf-like portion that extends perpendicularly from the first portion to cover the ends of the tabs (24) when the distal end insert (50) is inserted inside the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20). The distal end insert (50) enables a snug fit of distal end of the first longitudinal member (20) against the second longitudinal member second surface (35) and can protect the tabs (24) against wear and tear from repeated insertions of the first longitudinal member (20) as structures based on the union are assembled and disassembled or against damage done to tabs (24) during shipping and storage. The first end of the distal end insert (50) is configured to fit within the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20) by fabricating or printing it to have the same cross-sectional shape of the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20).

[0028] In the illustrated embodiments, the protruded outward facing surface (56) and embodiments of the distal end insert (50) may have a first end that has a rectangular or square shape that is configured to fit within the first longitudinal member (20) and the distal end insert (50) may have a surface that is configured for contact against the interior surface of the second longitudinal member (30). As examples, the protruded outward facing surface (56) may have an angled flat surface when the second longitudinal member (30) is rectangular or the protruded outward facing surface (56) may have a curved semicircular shape, as illustrated in FIG. 12D, that matches the shape or curve of the second longitudinal member second interior surface (35) when the second longitudinal member (30) is ovular, to produce a snug fit of the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20) against the second longitudinal member second or interior surface (35). Embodiments of the distal end insert (50) may be made of a variety of different materials, however a preferred fabricated material comprises a plastic with a durometer of sufficient hardness to promote durability and sufficient softness to enable a resilient snug fit and resist movement of the first longitudinal member (20) relative to the second longitudinal member (30). FIGS. 11 A-l ID illustrate close-up views of the union wherein the first longitudinal member (20) has been inserted into a second longitudinal member (30) that is cross-sectioned and wherein the securing mechanism comprises a set-screw (37) that is received through apertures in each of the first longitudinal member (20) and second longitudinal member (30) that are aligned and configured to receive the set-screw (37). Moreover, the tab covers (54) of the distal end insert (50) extend along and project over the tabs (24) and are received through the slots (36) in the second longitudinal member (30).Additionally, as illustrated in the FIGS. 1A-8C, the aperture (34) of the second longitudinal member (30) may be fitted with an aperture collar (60) that has a two portion outside perimeter shape and dimension including a first portion that is configured to fit inside and against the shape and dimension of perimeter of the aperture (34) and a second portion that is configured to fit against the shape and configuration of the inner surface of the second longitudinal member (30). The aperture collar (60) also has an inner perimeter shape and dimension that is configured to receive the outside cross-sectional shape and dimension of the first longitudinal member first surface (22). FIGS. 6A-6B illustrate an aperture collar (60) wherein the inner perimeter and outer perimeter shapes are rectangular and FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate an aperture collar (60) wherein the inner perimeter shape is ovular but the outer perimeter shape is rectangular.

[0029] It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the quick connect and disconnect union enables a method of assembling and disassembling, frames, or structures comprised of tubular members. The method comprises aligning the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20) with the aperture (34) in the second longitudinal member (30) and aligning the tabs (24) with, and guiding them into the slots (36) in the second longitudinal member second surface (35), which aligns the securing mechanism, such as a spring button (40) with springbutton hole (37). The method may further be augmented by including a distal end insert (50) or an aperture collar (60).

[0030] The union and concepts disclosed herein enable a process of designing structures of tubular members that can be quickly assembled and disassembled for use, and for storage or transport, respectively. Even more, the concepts herein enables providing or designing or creating frames or other assemblies or structures that are a mistake-deterrent assembly structures. As one example of a mistake deterrent assembly, the structure or assembly may be comprised of at least one but more like a plurality of unions, wherein for any given quick connect and disconnect union, the particular shape, position, or other configuration of the tab (24) or tabs (24) that extend from a particular first longitudinal member (20) are uniquely matched for receipt by only a particular slot (36) or pair of slots (36) on one second longitudinal member (30).

[0031] In an example according to the process, tabs (24) may be positioned apart from each other, or around the perimeter of the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20) at a determined distance or arc length therebetween such tab (24) or tabs (24) such that any giventab (24) or tabs (24) are receivable into only a uniquely configured or positioned single slot (36) or pair of slots (36) in a particular second longitudinal member (30) configured to have the slot (36) or slots (36) with the same determined distance or arc length therebetween. Thus, as one example, a tab (24) on a first longitudinal member (20) may be positioned at twelve o'clock relative to the cross-sectional shape of the member, and a tab (24) on the second longitudinal member (30) positioned at one o'clock, and first and second slots (36) in a third member (100) may be positioned or configured such that such that only one of the slots (36) is configured to receive each tab (24). Alternatively, in another example, any singular tab (24) or combination of tabs (24) on a first longitudinal member (20) may be positioned such that said tab (24) or tabs (24) are laterally or diagonally off-center at a unique distance from the longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal member (20) which runs along the center axis of the member, and the slot (36) or slots (36) in the second longitudinal member (30) are matched in position to such unique distance from the longitudinal axis such that only the first longitudinal member (20) with the uniquely positioned tab (24) or tabs (24) is receivable into the slot (36) or slots (36) in the second longitudinal member (30). An embodiment of such example is illustrated in FIGS. 11A-12E, and shows that the tabs (24) extend from the longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal member (20) and are offset from along the longitudinal axis the first longitudinal member (20) such that said tabs (24) extend in a direction that runs parallel to the center longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal member (20) rather than on the longitudinal axis, and it follows that the slots (36) in the second longitudinal member second (or interior) surface (35 ) are positioned and sized to receive said tabs (24).

[0032] Additionally, the quick connect and disconnect union may be fabricated by a Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) laser tube cutting machine and apparatus controlling the CNC laser tube cutting apparatus to cut or process one or more discrete quick connect and disconnect union. The method or process of operating the CNC laser tube cutting apparatus to fabricate a quick connect and disconnect union may comprise a discrete collection of software instructions or code that enables control of the CNC laser tube cutting apparatus to fabricate the discrete features or elements of the quick connect and disconnect union onto longitudinal members intended for detachable connection. The software instructions or code to control a laser cutting or other fabrication machine may include a graphical user interface that enables a user or designer of assembled tube structures to identify or specify fabrication of a quick connect and disconnect union for a distal end of a first longitudinal member (20) that is to be detachablyconnectable to a second longitudinal member (30). The process may for example comprise calling or operating the software code to subtractively fabricate or cut at least one tab (24) in the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20) and subtractively fabricate or cut an aperture to include a securing mechanism, such as a spring button hole adapted to guide a pin or button from a spring button (40). Further, the process enables the user or designer to identify or specify a location on the second longitudinal member (30), wherein the process includes calling or operating the software code to subtractively fabricate or cut an aperture (34) in the second longitudinal member first (e.g. exterior) surface and at least one slot (36) in the second or interior surface (35) of the second longitudinal member (30) such that the slot (36) is configured in size and placement to receive the at least one tab (24). The method of controlling the laser apparatus to cut or process a discrete quick connect and disconnect union may be adapted to any size and shape of longitudinal members and scaled up or down for larger or smaller assembled structures, and additionally, the method of controlling the laser apparatus to cut or subtractively cut or fabricate a quick connect and disconnect union may incorporate other improvements disclosed herein such as a process of creating an assembled structure that cannot be incorrectly assembled by assigning to each fabricated quick connect and disconnect union one of a plurality of unique combinations of size-and-placement-configurations of respective tab (24) and slot (36) positions such as disclosed herein.

[0033] The process may create a first longitudinal member (20) with a first member tab (24) that extends longitudinally from a distal end of the first longitudinal member (20) to a first position, and a first securing mechanism that extends orthogonally from near the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20). The process may also create a second longitudinal member (30) with a second member tab (24) that extends longitudinally from a distal end of a second longitudinal member (30) to a second position, and a second securing mechanism that extends orthogonally from near the distal end of the second longitudinal member (30). The process may further create a third member (100) with a third member first surface (120) and a third member second surface (130), a first aperture (34) and a second aperture (34) in the third member first surface (120), and a first slot (36) and a second slot (36) in the third member second surface (130), the first aperture (34) configured to receive the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20), the first slot (36) configured to receive the first member tab (24), only, the second aperture (34) adapted to receive the distal end of the second longitudinal member (30), the second slot (36) configured to receive the second member tab (24), only, the first securingmechanism configured to engage the third member (100) and removably secure the first longitudinal member (20) to the third member (100), the second securing mechanism configured to engage the third member (100) and removably secure the second longitudinal member (30) to the third member (100).

[0034] As illustrated in FIG. 14, a process may be embodied in software instructions that enables a user using a CNC machine to design structures that deter assembly mistakes by executing software instructions that enable a user to identify for the structure the placement of a first union to enable detachable connection between the first longitudinal member (20) to the third member (100), and the placement of a second union between the second longitudinal member (30), and the third member (100), the first longitudinal member (20) and second longitudinal member (30) having a substantially similar longitudinal axis. For example, a computer enabled CNC machine may execute software instructions to fabricate a first tab (24) in the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20), the location of the first tab (24) assigned to a first position relative to the substantially similar longitudinal axis. Additional software instructions may cause the CNC system to fabricate a second tab (24) in the distal end of the second longitudinal member (30), the location of the second tab (24) assigned to a second position relative to the substantially similar longitudinal axis. The software instructions may cause the system to fabricate a first aperture (34) in the third longitudinal member (100) that is configured to receive the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20) and a slot (36) in the first longitudinal member (20) that is positionally matched to the first position. The software may then enable the system to fabricate a second aperture (34) in the third longitudinal member (100) that is configured to receive the distal end of the second longitudinal member (30) and a slot (36) that is positionally matched to the second position.

[0035] While various embodiments have been described above and illustrated in the several drawings, it should be understood that the embodiments have been presented in great detail by way of example only, and not limitation. Thus, the breadth and scope of the described embodiments should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents, in this application or in applications claiming benefit of priority from this application.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A union for quick connect and disconnect of a first longitudinal member (20) and a second longitudinal member (30),(a) the first longitudinal member (20) with a first tab (24) extended from a first distal end of the first longitudinal member (20);(b) the second longitudinal member (30) with an aperture (34) in a second longitudinal first longitudinal member first surface and a slot (36)in a second longitudinal member second surface (35), the first longitudinal member (20) is detachably coupleable into the aperture (34) at an angle of between about 10 degrees to about 170 degrees, the aperture (34) configured to receive the first distal end of the first longitudinal member (20), the slot (36) configured to receive the first tab (24); and(c) a securing mechanism that detachably couples the first longitudinal member (20) to the second longitudinal member (30).

2. The union of claim 1 wherein the slot (36) is configured in a characteristic selected from, shape, size, angle, and location, to receive the first tab (24).

3. The union of claim 1 wherein the securing mechanism extends substantially orthogonally from the first longitudinal member (20) and contacts the second longitudinal member (30).

4. The union of claim 3 wherein the securing mechanism is selected from a spring button, and a spring tab.

5. The union of claim 1 wherein the securing mechanism comprises spring button (40) that that extends outward from the first longitudinal member first surface (22) and the second longitudinal member (30) has a spring button hole (37) configured in size and placement to retractably receive the spring button (40).

6. The union of claim 1 wherein the aperture (34) has a perimeter configured to match the cross-sectional shape of the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20).

7. The union of claim 1 wherein the first longitudinal member (20) includes a second tab (24) that extends away from the first distal end of the first longitudinal member (20), the first andsecond tabs (24) configured for receipt in first and second (36) in the second longitudinal member second surface (35).

8. The union of claim 7 wherein the tabs (24) are positioned on substantially opposite sides of the first distal end of the first longitudinal member first surface (22).

9. The union of claim 1 further comprising a distal end insert (50) configured to be received in the first distal end of the first longitudinal member (20), the distal end insert (50) with a distal end insert surface (58) that makes contact against the second longitudinal member second surface (35).

10. The union of claim 9 wherein the distal end insert (50) comprises a distal end insert surface that protrudes from the first distal end and is complementary shaped relative to the second longitudinal member second surface (35).

11. The union of claim 9 wherein the distal end insert surface is selected from curved and flat.

12. The union of claim 9 wherein the distal end insert (50) comprises a first portion that extends outward from the protruded outward facing surface (56) of the distal end insert (50) and a second shelf-like portion that extends perpendicularly from the first portion to cover the ends of the tabs (24) when the distal end insert (50) is inserted inside the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20).

13. An assembly of a first longitudinal member (20), a second longitudinal member (30), and third longitudinal member (100):(a) the first longitudinal member (20) with first member tab (24) that extends from a distal end of the first longitudinal member (20), the first tab (24) with a first position;(b) the second longitudinal member (30) with a second member tab (24) that extends from a distal end of the second longitudinal member (30) at a second position; and(c) the third longitudinal member (100) with a first aperture (34) and a second aperture (34), a first slot (36) and a second slot (36), the first aperture (34) configured to receive the first longitudinal member (20), the first slot (36) configured to receive the first member tab (24), the second aperture (34) configured to receive the second longitudinal member (30), the second slot (36) configured to receive the second member tab (24).

14. The assembly of claim 13 wherein the first slot (36) is configured to receive only the first member tab (24) and the second slot (36) is configured to receive only the second member tab (24).

15. The assembly of claim 14 wherein the first longitudinal member (20) has a first member longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal member (30) has a second member longitudinal axis, and the first member tab (24) extends to a different position relative to the first member longitudinal axis than the second member tab (24) extends to relative to the second member longitudinal axis.

16. The assembly of claim 15 wherein the different position relative to the first member longitudinal axis than the second member tab (24) extends to relative to the second member longitudinal axis is selected from a different radial position or a different angular position.

17. The assembly of claim 15 wherein the first member longitudinal axis and the second member longitudinal axis are each substantially linear.

18. The assembly of claim 14 wherein the first member tab (24) is a different shape than the second member tab (24).

19. An assembly, comprising: a first longitudinal member (20) comprised of a first member tab (24) that extends longitudinally from a distal end of the first longitudinal member (20) and a first securing mechanism that extends orthogonally from near the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20), a second longitudinal member (30) comprised of a second member tab (24) that extends longitudinally from a distal end of a second longitudinal member (30) and a second securing mechanism that extends orthogonally from near the distal end of the second longitudinal member (30), and a third member (100) comprised of a third member first surface (120) and a third member second surface (130), a first aperture (34) and a second aperture (34) in the third member first surface (120), and a first slot (36) and a second slot (36) in the third member second surface (130), the first aperture (34) adapted to receive the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20), the first slot (36) adapted to receive the first member tab (24), the second aperture (34) adapted to receive the distal end of the second longitudinal member (30),the second slot (36) configured to receive the second member tab (24), the first securing mechanism configured to engage the third member (100) and removably secure the first longitudinal member (20) to the third member (100), the second securing mechanism configured to engage the third member (100) and removably secure the second longitudinal member (30) to the third member (100).

20. A method of creating a structure that can be repeatedly assembled and disassembled and that deters mistakes whilst assembling the structure, comprising: creating a first longitudinal member (20) with a first member tab (24) that extends longitudinally from a distal end of the first longitudinal member (20) to a first position, and a first securing mechanism that extends orthogonally from near the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20), creating a second longitudinal member (30) with a second member tab (24) that extends longitudinally from a distal end of a second longitudinal member (30) to a second position, and a second securing mechanism that extends orthogonally from near the distal end of the second longitudinal member (30), and creating a third member (100) with a third member first surface (120) and a third member second surface (130), a first aperture (34) and a second aperture (34) in the third member first surface (120), and a first slot (36) and a second slot (36) in the third member second surface (130), the first aperture (34) configured to receive the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20), the first slot (36) configured to receive the first member tab (24), only, the second aperture (34) adapted to receive the distal end of the second longitudinal member (30), the second slot (36) configured to receive the second member tab (24), only, the first securing mechanism configured to engage the third member (100) and removably secure the first longitudinal member (20) to the third member (100), the second securing mechanism configured to engage the third member (100) and removably secure the second longitudinal member (30) to the third member (100).

21. The method of claim 20 wherein the step of creating a first longitudinal member (20) with a first member tab (24) and creating a second longitudinal member (30) with a second member tab (24)comprises fabricating the first and second member tabs (24) by subtractively cutting the distal ends of the first and second longitudinal members to leave the tabs (24).

22. The method of claim 20 wherein the first slot (36) is configured to receive the first member tab (24), only, and the second slot (36) is configured to receive the second member tab (24), only, by matching a tab characteristic to a slot characteristic, wherein the matched tab and slot characteristic are selected from shape of the tab (24) and slot (36), position of the tab (24) and slot (36) relative to a longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal member (20) or second longitudinal member (30), and angular tilt of the of the tab (24) and slot (36) relative to a longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal member (20) or second longitudinal member (30).

23. The method of claim 20 wherein the first slot (36) is uniquely positionally matched with the first position and the second slot (36) is uniquely positionally matched with the second position.

24. The method of claim 23 wherein uniquely positionally matched comprises that the first longitudinal member (20) has a first member longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal member (30) has a second member longitudinal axis and the first member tab (24) extends to a different position relative to the first member longitudinal axis than the second member tab (24) extends to relative to the second member longitudinal axis.

25. A method for designing a structure that deters assembly mistakes between a first longitudinal member (20) and a second longitudinal member (30) to a third member (100), comprising: executing software instructions that enables a user to identify for the structure the placement of a first union to enable detachable connection between the first longitudinal member (20) to the third member (100), and the placement of a second union between the second longitudinal member (30), and the third member (100), the first longitudinal member (20) and second longitudinal member (30) having a substantially similar longitudinal axis; executing software instructions to fabricate a first tab (24) in the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20), the location of the first tab (24) assigned to a first position relative to the substantially similar longitudinal axis; executing software instructions to fabricate a second tab (24) in the distal end of the second longitudinal member (30), the location of the second tab (24) assigned to a second position relative to the substantially similar longitudinal axis; executing software instructions to fabricate a first aperture (34) in the third longitudinal member (100) that is configured to receive the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20)and a slot (36) in the first longitudinal member (20) that is positionally matched to the first position; and executing software instructions to fabricate a second aperture (34) in the third longitudinal member (100) that is configured to receive the distal end of the second longitudinal member (30) and a slot (36) that is positionally matched to the second position.

26. The method of claim 25 further comprising fabricating or cut an aperture in the first longitudinal member (20) and in the second longitudinal member (30) to include a securing mechanism that are each configured to secure the third longitudinal member ( 100).

27. A computing apparatus to design a structure that deters assembly mistakes, the structure comprised of a first longitudinal member (20) and a second longitudinal member (30) and a third member (100), comprising: a processor; and a memory storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, configure the apparatus to: execute software instructions that enables a user to identify for the structure the placement of a first union to enable detachable connection between the first longitudinal member (20) to the third member (100), and the placement of a second union between the second longitudinal member (30), and the third member (100), the first longitudinal member (20) and second longitudinal member (30) having a substantially similar longitudinal axis; execute software instructions to fabricate a first tab (24) in the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20), the location of the first tab (24) assigned to a first position relative to the substantially similar longitudinal axis; execute software instructions to fabricate a second tab (24) in the distal end of the second longitudinal member (30), the location of the second tab (24) assigned to a second position relative to the substantially similar longitudinal axis; execute software instructions to fabricate a first aperture (34) in the third longitudinal member (100) that is configured to receive the distal end of the first longitudinal member (20) and a slot (36) in the first longitudinal member (20) that is positionally matched to the first position; andexecute software instructions to fabricate a second aperture (34) in the third longitudinal member (100) that is configured to receive the distal end of the second longitudinal member (30) and a slot (36) that is positionally matched to the second position.