Adhesive Groove Joining for Cylindrical Connections Without Gaps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection systems between cylindrical elements in scaffolding, such as transoms and standards, fail to provide strong and long-lasting adhesive bonds, leading to potential gaps that can allow external agents like dampness to weaken the connection.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a first connection element with a projecting cylindrical portion and a groove on its surface for adhesive placement, combined with a through-hole for adhesive injection, where the adhesive is distributed evenly by rotating the portion while injecting and withdrawing the tube, ensuring the adhesive stays within the surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If adhesive is injected into the groove without rotation, then the injection process is simple, but the adhesive distribution is uneven and gaps form
Solution Approach 1:
The connection element incorporates a rotating groove that transitions from a static groove to a dynamic rotating groove. This rotation enables the adhesive to distribute evenly along the entire groove path while the element is being inserted, eliminating gaps without requiring complex external injection systems
Solution Approach 2:
The groove is pre-formed with specific geometric characteristics (cross-sectional shape, depth, width variations) that facilitate adhesive flow and distribution during the insertion process itself, preparing the path for even adhesive distribution before the actual connection is made
2Quantity of substance
If the groove extends to the end of the cylindrical portion, then adhesive coverage is maximized, but adhesive flows outside the outer surface
Solution Approach 1:
The groove geometry varies along its length with different cross-sectional shapes, depths, and widths at different positions. The groove terminates before the end of the cylindrical portion, creating localized zones with different adhesive holding capacities that prevent overflow while ensuring complete surface coverage
3Ease of manufacture
If adhesive injection is performed without through-hole access, then the structure is simpler, but adhesive cannot be injected efficiently into the groove
Solution Approach 1:
The through-hole serves multiple functions: it provides access for adhesive injection, acts as a alignment feature during assembly, and maintains structural integrity of the connection element. This multi-functional design simplifies the overall manufacturing process despite the additional feature
Data Source
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AI summary
Connection system between at least a first and a second connection element by means of adhesive, said first connection element comprising a projecting cylindrical portion suitable for being inserted inside a cylindrical housing of said second connection element, said projecting cylindrical portion comprising a groove arranged on the outer surface thereof for placing an adhesive for connecting said projecting cylindrical portion inside said cylindrical housing, in which said first connection element comprises a through-hole connected linearly with said groove for inserting an adhesive by means of an adhesive injection tube, said groove extending along the outer surface of the projecting cylindrical portion without reaching the end of said projecting cylindrical portion.