Angled Wall Connector Bracket for Modular Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular wall systems are limited in configuration options as they can only be connected at their corresponding ends, restricting the ability to create spaces of different sizes and shapes.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a connector bracket system that allows wall modules to be connected at various locations and angles, including right angles and non-right angles, by using a first connector plate associated with a vertical frame member and a second connector plate coupled to a horizontal bracket, enabling flexible assembly beyond traditional end-to-end connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If wall modules are connected only at corresponding ends, then the connection structure is simple, but the configuration versatility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connector bracket is designed as a universal component that can connect wall modules at multiple locations (ends and intermediate positions) and at various angles (90 degrees and non-right angles). The bracket includes a first connector plate for attaching to one wall module and a second connector plate for attaching to another wall module, with a transition plate enabling angular connections. This multi-functional design allows a single connector type to replace multiple specialized connectors, thereby increasing configuration versatility without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector bracket is segmented into distinct functional components: a first connector plate, a second connector plate, and a transition plate. Each plate can be independently positioned and oriented to achieve different connection configurations. The transition plate specifically segments the angular transformation function, allowing the first and second connector plates to be oriented at various angles relative to each other, thereby enabling flexible wall module arrangements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If wall modules are connected at various locations and angles, then the configuration versatility increases, but the connector complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transition plate serves as an intermediary element between the first connector plate and the second connector plate. It mediates the angular relationship between connected wall modules, allowing the first and second connector plates to be oriented at 90 degrees or non-right angles relative to each other. This intermediary component simplifies the overall connector design by providing a standardized interface for angular connections, rather than requiring complex integrated mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector bracket employs multiple openings in each connector plate that can accommodate fasteners at different positions and orientations. This dynamic configuration allows the same connector bracket to adapt to various connection scenarios (different locations and angles) without requiring multiple specialized bracket designs. The selective use of different openings provides flexibility while maintaining a relatively simple base structure.
3Ease of operation
If traditional end-to-end connections are used, then the assembly process is simple, but the space customization options are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The connector bracket is pre-configured with multiple openings in each connector plate, allowing installers to select and use different openings based on the desired connection location and angle. This preliminary provision of multiple connection options simplifies the assembly process compared to requiring different connector types for different configurations, while simultaneously expanding space customization possibilities. The pre-designed flexibility is built into the connector structure itself.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector bracket is used to connect a second wall module to a first wall module at an intermediate position between opposing sides of the first wall module. The connector bracket can include a first connector plate, having one or more tabs extending therefrom, that connects to a vertical bracket of the second wall module and a second connector plate that connects to a horizontal support member of the first wall module. The connector bracket can additionally include a transition plate connected between the first connector plate and the second connector plate. The connector bracket can allow for the two wall modules to be connected together at right angles, obtuse angles, or acute angles, depending on the orientation and/or configuration of the connector bracket, the second connector bracket, and/or the transition bracket.