Apron Device Snap-Fastening Connection for Roller Shutter Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing building concealment and closing systems, such as roller shutters and slat blinds, face challenges in assembling the apron device due to riveted slats on lateral drive chains, requiring specialized tools for replacing damaged blades and complicating the process.
Innovation Solution
The apron device incorporates snap-fastening connection means at the slat ends that cooperate with complementary drive means like chains or straps, allowing easy assembly and disassembly by interlocking perpendicularly, with end pieces designed for secure fitting, crimping, or gluing, and featuring retractable tabs for easy dismantling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If riveted slats are used on lateral drive chains, then the connection between slats and drive means is secure, but the assembly and maintenance require specialized tools and become complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate modular components: slats with integrated connection elements, drive means with complementary receiving elements, and optional end pieces. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently and assembled through simple snap-fastening operations without requiring riveting tools or specialized assembly equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
Connection elements and end pieces act as intermediary components that bridge the slat and drive means. These intermediaries provide the secure mechanical connection previously achieved only through riveting, while enabling tool-free assembly. The connection elements feature snap-fastening mechanisms that create strong bonds without permanent fasteners.
2Reliability
If riveted slats are used on lateral drive chains, then the connection is secure, but replacing damaged blades requires specialized tools and time
Solution Approach 1:
The modular segmentation of slats, connection elements, and drive means enables individual slat replacement without affecting other components. Damaged slats can be independently removed and replaced by simply disengaging the snap-fastening connection, eliminating the need to dismantle the entire assembly or use rivet removal tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The snap-fastening connection system is designed to be self-servicing, allowing users to replace damaged slats without specialized tools or professional assistance. The simple engage/disengage mechanism enables end-users to perform maintenance operations themselves, improving both ease of repair and reducing service costs.
3Ease of manufacture
If snap-fastening connection means are used, then assembly and maintenance become easier, but the connection strength may be reduced compared to riveting
Solution Approach 1:
The connection elements are merged with the slats through integral forming or secure attachment, creating a unified component that maintains structural integrity. The combination of the connection element, slat, and optional end piece forms a robust assembly that achieves connection strengths comparable to riveted systems while retaining tool-free assembly capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The snap-fastening mechanism incorporates curved or rounded geometric features that enable flexible engagement and disengagement. The curved connection surfaces allow the components to snap together securely while accommodating minor misalignments and maintaining strong mechanical bonds without rigid fixed connections.
4Manufacturing precision
If complex riveting processes are used, then precise slat positioning is achieved, but the manufacturing time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Connection elements, end pieces, and positioning features are pre-formed and pre-configured during component manufacturing. The slats arrive at the assembly stage with integrated connection elements already in their correct positions and orientations, eliminating the need for time-consuming riveting operations and precise positioning during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
Connection elements serve as intermediary components that incorporate built-in positioning features and alignment guides. These intermediaries ensure precise slat positioning relative to the drive means through their geometric design, eliminating the need for complex riveting processes while maintaining manufacturing precision.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~7
AI summary
The device has a strip (2) comprising lateral ends (7, 8) and adapted to be connected to driving units (9) e.g. band. One of the lateral ends of the strip comprises clipping connection units (12) cooperated with complementary connection units (13) that are connected to the driving units. The clipping connection units are associated with an end fitting (15), and comprise tabs (16). The tabs are defined by strips (20) that are folded to define a recess .