Bayonet Connection System for Platform Deck Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional platforms for storage and transport, such as pallets, face difficulties in simple and practical assembly and removal of elements, often requiring significant force and complex tooling, which can damage the components and necessitate excessive physical effort, leading to inefficient repair and replacement processes.
Innovation Solution
A connection system featuring a radial arrangement of mounts and apertures on the support device and deck, combined with a circular actuation mechanism using retaining pins and headed studs, allows for easy attachment and detachment of the deck from the support device through a simple turning motion, eliminating the need for excessive force and complex tooling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional connection methods are used to attach deck to support device, then the connection is strong and durable, but the assembly and removal require excessive force and complex tooling
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from a static, force-intensive connection to a dynamic, motion-based connection. The bayonet-style mechanism allows the deck to be attached by a simple rotational motion of the support device, converting the assembly process from requiring linear force to requiring rotational motion, which is mechanically advantageous and easier to perform.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical assembly tooling (levers, presses, specialized tools) with a simplified mechanical system based on geometric interlocking and rotational motion. The bayonet connection mechanism eliminates the need for external tooling by incorporating the connection function directly into the support device and deck interface.
2Productivity
If excessive force is applied during removal of support device, then the connection is broken, but the elements are damaged and rendered useless
Solution Approach 1:
The removal process utilizes dynamic rotational motion rather than static force application. By rotating the support device in the opposite direction, the bayonet connection disengages cleanly without requiring excessive force that could damage the deck or support device, enabling efficient removal while preserving the elements for reuse.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism converts the potential harm of strong connections into a benefit by designing the connection geometry such that the same structural features that provide strong attachment also enable clean, damage-free removal through rotational motion. The bayonet shape ensures that engagement is strong while disengagement is controlled and non-damaging.
3Reliability
If complex tooling is used for assembly and removal, then the connection is secure, but the physical effort required is enormous
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the connection function from complex external tooling and incorporates it directly into the support device itself. The support device includes integrated features (such as the bayonet-style interface and positioning elements) that perform the connection function, eliminating the need for separate assembly tools and reducing physical effort to minimal manual manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The support device and deck are designed to be self-connecting through their geometric features. The bayonet interface and positioning elements automatically align and engage when the support device is rotated into place, without requiring external tooling or significant physical effort, making the system self-servicing during assembly and disassembly.
4Stability of the object's composition
If traditional assembly methods are used, then the elements are securely connected, but the process is brusque and causes considerable damage
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly process transitions from brusque, forceful actions to a controlled rotational motion. The bayonet connection mechanism allows the deck and support device to be joined smoothly through rotation, preventing the kind of impact and stress that cause damage in traditional assembly methods, while still achieving secure, stable connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The design incorporates preliminary positioning features (such as guide elements and aligned apertures) that prepare the deck and support device for connection before the final rotational engagement. This preliminary alignment prevents misalignment damage and ensures that the connection is made smoothly and correctly from the start, maintaining stability without causing damage.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4a~4b
AI summary
The present invention relates to a connection system (1) adapted for removably attaching a deck (2) to a support device (3) of a platform (4) for the storage and transport of goods. The connection system (1) facilitates the assembly and removal of the different elements of the platform by means of mounts (1.1), pins (1.4.1), studs (1.4.2) and apertures (1.2, 1.3) arranged both in the deck itself and in the support device and operated by means of turning an actuation mechanism (1.4).