Beam Connector Kit With Perpendicular Insertion and Integrated Power

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing beam connection systems are rigid, complex to produce, require prior design of the structure, and separate mechanical and electrical connections, making them inflexible and aesthetically unattractive.

Innovation Solution

A kit and method for connecting beams using connector blocks with longitudinal grooves and sockets, allowing insertion perpendicular to the beams, and junction blocks with splined sockets for flexible connection and integrated electrical modules, enabling rapid assembly and reconfiguration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If connectors are designed with predetermined shapes for specific connection configurations, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connector block is designed with a universal body that can accommodate multiple connection configurations through a single actuating mechanism. The body includes a longitudinal socket that can receive different beam types, and the actuating unit can switch the connector element between extracted and retracted positions to create various connection geometries, eliminating the need for multiple predetermined connector shapes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector element is made dynamic through the actuating unit, which can switch it between extracted and retracted positions. This dynamic adjustment allows the same connector block to adapt to different connection configurations, resolving the contradiction between connection reliability and device complexity by providing configurability without requiring multiple fixed designs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Stability of the object's composition

If connectors are designed with predetermined shapes for specific connection configurations, then connection stability is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidease of manufacture

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The connector block uses a universal body design with a longitudinal socket that can accommodate different beam types and configurations. This single manufacturable design replaces multiple predetermined connector shapes, improving ease of manufacture while maintaining connection stability through the standardized socket-connector element interface.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector is segmented into a body and a separate connector element that can be independently manufactured and then assembled. The body includes the longitudinal socket, while the connector element is manufactured separately and inserted into the socket, allowing each component to be optimized for manufacturing while maintaining overall connection stability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If connectors are inserted from a direction parallel with the beam, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of operation and productivity deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidease of operation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of inserting the connector from a direction parallel with the beam (longitudinal insertion), the invention inverts the insertion direction to be perpendicular to the beam axis. The connector block is inserted through the bottom wall of the longitudinal socket, allowing operators to access and insert connectors from the side of the beam rather than from the end, improving ease of operation while maintaining connection reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

4Reliability

If mechanical connection and electrical connection are made separately, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity and installation complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention merges the mechanical connection function and the electrical connection function into a single integrated connector block. The body provides mechanical support and positioning, while the connector element establishes both mechanical engagement and electrical contact with the beam, eliminating the need for separate mechanical and electrical connection operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector block is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides mechanical connection and electrical connection. The body structures the mechanical support, while the connector element performs both mechanical engagement and electrical contact, allowing a single component to fulfill multiple functions that were previously required separate components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP4632966A1Kit and related components for connecting two or more beams, preferably electrified, and related method

Publication Date: 2025.10.15 VIABIZZUNO SRL

Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A~2B

AI summary

Described is a kit (100) for connecting two or more beams, extending along a longitudinal direction (L) and including a corresponding longitudinal groove (SL), having a width of insertion (LI) along a transverse direction (T), perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L), comprising a plurality of connector blocks (2); a junction block (3) and/or an articulated block (5).