Resilient Clip Connector for Fast Tool-Free Stud Joining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for connecting reinforcement studs in constructions, such as room-in-room systems, are time-consuming and require specialized tools, necessitating significant muscle strength due to the use of bolted connections.
Innovation Solution
A clip connector with a head portion, shank portion, and resilient members that allows for quick and tool-free attachment to perforations in studs, utilizing a tapered shank for guiding and resilient members for stability, made of plastic or metal material.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If screwed or bolted connection is used to connect two studs, then strong mechanical connection is achieved, but installation time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical screw-bolt-nut connection system with a clip connector system that uses elastic resilient members. The clip connector engages with the studs through elastic deformation of the resilient members, eliminating the need for threading, tightening, and tool-based fastening operations while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The clip connector utilizes the elastic properties of its resilient members to automatically secure itself to the studs. The resilient members deform elastically during insertion and then exert restoring forces to maintain the connection, eliminating the need for external tools or additional fastening operations.
2Reliability
If nut and bolt connection is used to connect reinforcement profiles, then reliable connection is achieved, but specialized tools are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the tool-dependent nut and bolt system with a tool-free clip connector system. The connection is established through simple insertion and elastic deformation of the resilient members, which can be performed by hand without requiring spanners, ratchets, or other specialized fastening tools.
3Strength
If nut and bolt connection is used to connect reinforcement profiles, then secure connection is achieved, but significant muscle strength is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the high-force nut and bolt tightening operation with a low-force elastic engagement system. The resilient members deform elastically during insertion and secure the connection through their restoring forces, eliminating the need for manual tightening operations that require significant muscle strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the connection mechanism from a high-force mechanical tightening process to a low-force elastic deformation process. By utilizing the elastic properties of the resilient members, the system achieves secure connection through small deformations and low insertion forces rather than high tightening forces.
4Reliability
If conventional stud connection methods are used, then stable connection is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex multi-component fastening system (screws, bolts, nuts, washers) from the connection process. The clip connector integrates all necessary connection functions into a single device with resilient members that engage directly with the studs, simplifying the overall system while maintaining connection stability.
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 and secure connections without tools, reducing installation time and effort, particularly beneficial for wide-span constructions like room-in-room systems.
Implementation Method 1
Two resilient members have a first end located at the second end section of the shank portion and having a second end pointing towards the head portion
Data Source
Figure 1~2b
Figure 3a~3b
Figure 3c~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a clip connector (1) for connecting two studs (01, 02) to each other, the clip connector (1) comprising a head portion (2), a shank portion (3) having a first end section (31) and a second end section (32), the first end section (31) being located at the head portion (2), and at least one resilient member (4), having a first end (41) of the at least one resilient member (4) located at the second end section (32) of the shank portion (3) and having a second end (42) of the at least one resilient member (4) pointing towards the head portion (2), wherein in the mounted state of the clip connector (1), the studs (01, 02) are arranged between the head portion (2) and the second end (42) of the at least one resilient member (4). The invention also relates to a construction and a method for connecting two studs.