Bed Frame Clamp Connector for Tool-Free End Part Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beds require labor-intensive and time-consuming assembly and disassembly processes, especially when transported in dismantled form, often necessitating specialized personnel and tools, which complicates logistics and site assembly.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of manually operated clamping connectors with fork-shaped spring legs and an actuating element allows for tool-free assembly and disassembly, enabling secure positioning of bed components without screws, facilitating quick and safe assembly by non-specialist personnel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If screw connections are used to connect bed frame parts and end parts, then the connection strength and stability are improved, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes labor-intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is divided into separate functional components: a clamping device with fork-shaped spring legs that provides the clamping force, and a separate clamping connector with actuating element that operates the clamping mechanism. This segmentation allows the connection to be made quickly through simple insertion and actuation motions, eliminating time-consuming screw operations while maintaining connection strength through the mechanical advantage of the lever-based clamping mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping device incorporates spring legs that automatically generate clamping force when the connector is inserted and actuated. The spring mechanism self-regulates the clamping pressure, eliminating the need for tools or complex adjustment procedures. The system serves itself by using the insertion motion to compress the spring, which then maintains the clamping force without requiring additional energy input or tool operation.
2Reliability
If screw connections are used to connect bed frame parts and end parts, then the connection reliability is improved, but the assembly process requires specialized personnel and tools
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping connector is designed to be self-operating through a simple actuating element that converts a single insertion motion into automatic clamping. The spring-loaded mechanism self-regulates the clamping force, eliminating the need for specialized knowledge or tools. Any person can perform the assembly by simply inserting the connector into the corresponding receptacle, making the process as easy as plug-and-play while ensuring reliable connection through the mechanical clamping action.
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional screw-based mechanical fastening system is replaced with a lever-based clamping mechanism. The actuating element functions as a lever that, when inserted, automatically engages the spring-loaded clamping device. This substitution eliminates the need for rotational motion and tool operation, replacing complex mechanical assembly with a simple linear insertion motion that anyone can perform while maintaining connection reliability.
3Ease of operation
If tool-free fastening means are used to connect bed frame parts, then the assembly simplicity is improved, but the connection strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping device transitions from a static connection to a dynamic clamping action. The spring legs provide continuous elastic force that actively maintains the clamping pressure, creating a dynamic connection that adapts to slight movements or variations in the connected parts. This dynamic clamping mechanism compensates for tolerances and maintains strong connection force without requiring complex tool-based fastening systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring legs are pre-loaded with elastic energy during manufacturing or initial assembly, storing clamping force in advance. When the connector is inserted and actuated, this pre-stored energy is immediately released to create strong clamping force. The preliminary preparation of the spring mechanism ensures that full connection strength is achieved through the simple actuation motion without requiring additional force application or tool operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution streamlines the assembly and disassembly process, reducing labor and time requirements, allowing untrained personnel to assemble or disassemble beds safely and efficiently, while also enabling flexible transport packaging conversions between truck and Bully formats.
Implementation Method 1
a clamping device (9), which is fork-shaped and has a first and has a second spring leg (10, 11)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5a~5c
AI summary
The invention relates to a bed, in particular a hospital bed and/or care bed, with a bed frame (2) and two end parts (3, 4) arranged on the front side. In order to further develop a bed of this type in such a way that, due to the design, simplified assembly or disassembly is possible, the invention proposes a bed of the type mentioned at the outset, which is characterized in that for the positionally secure arrangement of the end parts on the bed frame, fastening means, such as a hand-operated clamping connector, can be operated without tools Levers are provided.