Adjustable Fork-and-Pin Truss Connection for Rapid Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing truss connection methods are time-consuming and labor-intensive due to the need for precise alignment and fixed lengths, limiting design freedom and efficiency in constructing larger structures.
Innovation Solution
A truss structure with a fork-and-pin connection system featuring a sleeve with an internal thread for a threaded rod, allowing adjustable length and secure locking, enabling easy connection and disconnection of trusses with varying angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fixed-length trusses with mating flanges and removable pins are used, then structural stability is maintained, but alignment time and labor intensity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting portion incorporates a threaded rod that can be adjusted in length by rotating it within the sleeve, transforming a static fixed-length connection into a dynamic adjustable connection. This allows the truss structure to adapt to different alignment requirements without requiring precise pre-alignment, thereby reducing alignment time while maintaining structural stability through the locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameter of connecting portion length from fixed to variable. By providing a threaded rod that can be rotated to extend or retract within the sleeve, the connection length can be adjusted to accommodate different alignment scenarios, eliminating the time-consuming alignment process while preserving structural integrity through the lock.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional fixed-length trusses are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but design freedom and versatility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting portion is designed with a threaded rod that can be adjusted in length, providing versatility for different design configurations and angles. This dynamic adjustment capability significantly expands design freedom while the adjustment mechanism itself remains relatively simple in construction, requiring only a sleeve with internal threading and a locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable connecting portion serves multiple functions: it provides structural connection, allows length adjustment for different designs, enables angle variations, and maintains structural stability through locking. This multi-functionality increases design freedom without significantly complicating manufacturing, as the same basic mechanism handles multiple requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable connecting portions are implemented, then design freedom increases, but connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable connecting portion uses a simple dynamic mechanism: a threaded rod that rotates within a sleeve. This provides continuous length adjustment capability (infinite adjustability) without requiring complex mechanisms. The connection complexity is minimized by using basic threading and a straightforward locking system, achieving high design freedom with relatively simple construction.
4Ease of operation
If removable pins are used for connection, then assembly disassembly is enabled, but connection reliability during transportation is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The lock is designed to be engaged after the connecting portions are assembled, performing a preliminary securing action before transportation. This locking mechanism pre-secures the connection, preventing accidental disengagement during transportation while maintaining the ability to easily disassemble when needed by simply releasing the lock.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to be easily operated by the user without requiring additional tools or complex procedures. The self-locking feature automatically maintains connection reliability during transportation, while the ease of operation allows quick assembly and disassembly when needed, serving both reliability and operational ease requirements.
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
Facilitates quick, reliable, and versatile truss connections, allowing for complex designs without re-adjusting lengths, enhancing assembly and disassembly processes while maintaining structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
the sleeve has an internal thread into which a threaded rod of the connecting portion is screwed
Implementation Method 2
The connecting portion includes a lock to secure the threaded rod in position. The lock can prevent the threaded rod from being turned in or out in the axial direction
Data Source
AI summary
A truss includes a cuboid basic structure including longitudinal edges defined by truss bars and cross bars on longitudinal sides between the truss bars. The truss bars each include two open ends into which a connecting portion of a fork-and-pin connection is insertable. The connecting portion includes a sleeve located in and connected to the truss bar, and the sleeve includes an internal thread into which a threaded rod of the connecting portion is fixed. The threaded rod includes a pin head or fork head and the connecting portion includes a securing portion which secures the position of the threaded rod in the sleeve.