Bed Slat Fixing Structure Using Resilient Arms for Tool-Free Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bed slat connection structures either require cumbersome assembly with screws or compromise on structural strength with snap-fit connections, failing to balance ease of assembly with stability and noise reduction.
Innovation Solution
A bed slats fixing structure featuring two bed side rails with mounting bases having slots and resilient arms, allowing for tool-free assembly and secure positioning of bed slats, with mounting bases made of plastic or rubber to enhance stability and silence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If corner connector with screws is used for connection, then structural strength is improved, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the fastening function from the connector and separates it into two parts: the mounting base remains on the side rail while the resilient arm with locking feature is integrated into the bed slat. This allows the connector to be simpler while maintaining strength through the distributed mounting base structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient arm acts as an intermediary element between the bed slat and the mounting base. It provides both the locking function and the stress absorption capability, eliminating the need for screws while maintaining connection strength through its elastic deformation and resilient tab engagement.
2Ease of operation
If snap-fit connection is used for assembly, then assembly convenience is improved, but structural strength deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into multiple mounting bases distributed along the side rail, each providing independent support points. This segmentation allows the bed slat to be supported at multiple locations rather than relying on a single snap-fit point, thereby improving overall connection strength while maintaining assembly convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient arm introduces dynamic characteristics to the connection system. It can elastically deform to accommodate assembly tolerances and then lock into position through the resilient tab, providing both ease of assembly and enhanced structural strength through its ability to absorb and distribute stresses.
3Productivity
If rigid snap-fit connection is used, then assembly speed is improved, but noise generation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient arm and mounting base structure are designed to provide cushioning before any potential impact or stress occurs. The elastic material of the resilient arm absorbs shocks and vibrations, preventing the rigid contact that would generate noise, while still allowing for quick assembly through the maintained slot alignment.
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
Enables quick, tool-free assembly and maintains structural stability, reducing noise and improving user experience by using resilient arms and notches for secure interlocking without tools, while pre-installed mounting bases save assembly time.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient arm (22) located at one end of the slot (21); a fixed end (22a) of the resilient arm (22) is integrally connected to the mounting base (2), and a free end (22b) of the resilient arm (22) is movably located at said one end of the slot (21)
Implementation Method 2
a resilient tab (23) is provided at said another end of the slot (21) distal from the resilient arm (22); after the insertion part (31) is completely installed in the slot (21), the resilient tab (23) is pressed and deformed by the insertion part (31), and is fitted between the insertion part (31) and an inner wall of a corresponding bed side rail (1)
Data Source
AI summary
A bed slats fixing structure, including two bed side rails, a plurality of mounting bases, and a plurality of bed slats; a plurality of mounting holes are formed on each of the two bed side rails; the plurality of mounting bases are connected to the plurality of mounting holes respectively; each mounting base is provided with a slot and a resilient arm located at one end of the slot; a fixed end of the resilient arm is connected to the mounting base, and a free end of the resilient arm is movably located at said one end of the slot; each of two ends of each of the plurality of bed slats is provided with an insertion part; each insertion part is inserted into the slot of a corresponding mounting base and restricted by the resilient arm of the corresponding mounting base from moving leftward or rightward in the slot.