Furniture Support Column Adapter for Axial Groove Fixing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support columns require complex assembly and risk deformation due to excessive clamping forces, as adapters need to be made in multiple parts and individually actuated for force-locking fixation within the hollow profile.
Innovation Solution
The adapter is designed with multiple webs that engage in longitudinal grooves, supported by fastening means such as pins or clamping sleeves, allowing for axial securing without deformation, and can be easily fixed at a desired insertion depth, eliminating the risk of hollow profile deformation during attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the adapter is fixed using bracing elements that are individually actuated or rotated for force-locking fixation, then sufficient clamping forces can be applied, but the adapter has to be made in several parts and the assembly process becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple bracing elements into a single integrated adapter body. The adapter is designed as one piece with multiple bracing elements (at least two) that extend radially outward, eliminating the need to manufacture and assemble multiple separate parts while maintaining the required clamping forces through the integrated structure.
2Reliability
If excessive clamping forces are applied to jam the adapter within the hollow profile, then the adapter can be securely fixed, but the hollow profile can be deformed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates resilient means (such as springs or elastomeric elements) within the adapter structure that are pre-loaded to provide the necessary clamping force. This preliminary action allows the adapter to be inserted without excessive force, as the resilient means gradually engage and apply the required clamping pressure, preventing deformation of the hollow profile while ensuring secure fixation.
3Strength
If the adapter is made in several parts with individual bracing elements, then force-locking fixation can be achieved, but the assembly process requires individual actuation or rotation of each element
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple bracing elements into a single integrated adapter structure, eliminating the need for individual actuation or rotation of separate elements. The unified design allows the entire adapter to be installed as one component, significantly simplifying the assembly process while maintaining the necessary clamping forces through the integrated bracing elements.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The column (1) has an adapter (4) including connecting units for connecting supports for a tabletop, a foot board and a pedestal. The column is designed as a hollow profile (2). The adapter includes axially supported bars (6) engaging in longitudinal grooves (5) of the hollow profile. A fastening unit (8) lies on front sides of the bars for axially securing the adapter in a direction of the carrier and the foot board, where the front sides face towards adjacent free ends of the hollow profile. The fastening unit is fixed in the grooves in force-fit, form-fit and/or material engagement manner.