Angled Panel Connectors for Tool-Free Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing partition systems for open floor plans require multiple tools for assembly and disassembly, and are not easily reconfigurable, movable, or removable.
Innovation Solution
A panel system with angled connectors that allow panels to be easily assembled and disassembled using basic tools, featuring a slot system that enables sliding engagement of anchor fasteners to draw panels together or apart, allowing for quick reconfiguration and movement without specialized tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If known partition systems use multiple tools or specialized tools for assembly and disassembly, then connection strength is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed to perform multiple functions automatically: the slot guides the anchor fastener head, the draft angle converts pulling motion into clamping force, and the geometry itself creates the drawing action that draws panels together. No external tools or specialized equipment are needed - the connector serves itself to both assemble and secure the connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The draft angle parameter of the internal face is key to resolving this contradiction. By setting the internal face at an angle relative to the external face, the connector transforms the linear motion of the anchor fastener into both clamping force (improving connection strength) and drawing motion (improving ease of operation). This geometric parameter enables both strong connection and tool-free assembly.
2Ease of operation
If partition systems are designed for easy reconfiguration and movement, then ease of operation is improved, but stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector transitions from a static connection to a dynamic one. The slot allows the anchor fastener head to move along a defined path, enabling the connection to adapt during assembly and disassembly. This dynamic mechanism maintains stability during operation while enabling easy reconfiguration when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The draft angle parameter enables the connector to maintain stable connection during use while allowing easy disassembly. The angled internal face ensures that during normal operation, the connection remains stable and rigid. However, when disassembly is initiated, the same geometric parameter enables controlled movement and separation without requiring force or tools.
3Manufacturing precision
If specialized tools are used for assembly, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector's slot geometry serves as its own alignment and positioning mechanism. The slot's shape and orientation automatically guide the anchor fastener head into the correct position, eliminating the need for external alignment tools or specialized assembly equipment while maintaining precise assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The slot acts as an intermediary element between the connector and anchor fastener. It mediates the assembly process by providing a guided path that ensures precise positioning without requiring external tools. The slot translates the simple action of inserting the anchor fastener into a precise, controlled assembly operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A panel system includes a first panel having a recess and a connector received in the recess. The connector has a front wall that includes an external face and an internal face. The external face extends in a first plane and the internal face extends in a second plane that is angled relative to the first plane to form a draft angle. A slot extends through the external face and the internal face. The slot is configured to receive a head of an anchor fastener that is attached to an adjacent panel. Moving the first panel and the adjacent panel relative to one another moves the anchor fastener within the slot to cause the head to slidingly engage with the internal face to draw the first panel and the adjacent panel toward one another.