Channel Lock Fastener for Invisible Tool-Less Panel Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fastening systems for furniture and cabinets are inefficient, requiring tools, instructions, and frequent tightening due to loose fasteners, and fail to provide an invisible and cost-effective assembly solution for flat-packed products.
Innovation Solution
A tool-less fastening system featuring a channel lock fastener with a body having perpendicular faces and channels, which creates a friction fit when inserted into pre-drilled holes and routed slots, ensuring secure and invisible connections without the need for tools or periodic tightening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If cam-locks and traditional fasteners are used, then furniture can be assembled, but assembly time is excessive and requires tools and instructions
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener is pre-installed into the first panel at the factory before shipping. The recessed channel and stepped configuration are pre-formed in the fastener body, allowing the second panel to simply be inserted and locked into place without requiring complex assembly operations or tools by the consumer.
2Reliability
If cam-locks are used to join panels, then connection is achieved, but fasteners become loose over time requiring periodic tightening
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism that causes loosening and requires periodic tightening has been completely removed from the design. Instead, the fastener uses a permanent friction-fit engagement where the second panel is inserted into the recessed channel and held securely by the stepped configuration and interference fit, eliminating the need for adjustment over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastener creates its own secure connection through the interference fit between the fastener body and the slot in the second panel. The design self-regulates to maintain a tight friction fit without requiring external adjustment mechanisms or periodic tightening by the user.
3Ease of manufacture
If visible fasteners are used for assembly, then connection is achieved, but aesthetic value is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener is nested within the structure of the panels themselves. The recessed channel is formed within the fastener body, and the second panel inserts into this recessed channel, concealing the fastening mechanism. The fastener becomes hidden within the joint between panels, providing a clean aesthetic appearance while maintaining assembly simplicity.
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 rapid assembly of furniture and cabinets four to five times faster than existing systems, with pre-installed fasteners that remain securely in place, eliminating the need for tools and instructions, and providing a sturdy, aesthetically pleasing finish.
Implementation Method 1
A tool-less fastening system featuring a channel lock fastener with a body having perpendicular faces and channels, which creates a friction fit when inserted into pre-drilled holes and routed slots
Data Source
AI summary
A friction fit fastening system, that creates a firm and invisible connection between panels or substrates without the use of tools or glue, comprising a fastener and mating rout. The fastener has a ramp element that allows it to slide and connect to a mating rout. Different routs are used for different embodiments of the fasteners. The rout is formed directly in the panel face or edge or formed on a substrate by a router bit that has three cutting edges. The connections made by the friction fit fastening system are invisible. The fasteners can be installed at the manufacturing site so the user simply slides or inserts the fasteners into the appropriate slot or hole when assembling. The friction fit fastening system is easily removable from the panels making assembling and disassembling quick and easy because the fastener is made of one piece.