Concealed Latch Connector for Easy Rack Frame Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connecting apparatuses for elongated members are difficult to operate and visually unappealing as they are typically exposed outside the members, affecting the aesthetic appearance of structures formed by assembled racks or frames.
Innovation Solution
A connecting apparatus comprising a main body with two half members that can open and close, featuring a driving member and actuating member within an accommodating cavity, allowing the latch portions to be controlled for secure and concealed connection of vertical and horizontal elongated members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the connecting apparatus is installed outside the elongated member, then it is easy to operate, but it affects the appealing appearance of the structure
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting apparatus is nested inside the hollow interior of the elongated member, with only the operating portion extending through the outer flange for operation. This nesting approach conceals the connecting apparatus within the structural member, maintaining a clean aesthetic appearance while preserving full operational functionality through the extended operating portion.
2Shape
If the connecting apparatus is concealed inside the elongated member, then the appearance is appealing, but it may be difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The operating portion is extracted from the main body of the connecting apparatus and extended through the outer flange of the elongated member. This extraction allows the user to access and operate the connecting apparatus from the exterior without compromising the concealed aesthetic appearance of the main mechanism within the hollow interior.
3Reliability
If the connecting apparatus uses a complex mechanism to connect members securely, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting apparatus employs elastic members that automatically engage with latch portions when the half members are assembled together. This self-service mechanism provides secure connection through elastic force without requiring complex manual intervention or additional actuating components, thereby maintaining reliability while minimizing device complexity.
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 and convenient connection and disconnection of elongated members while maintaining a clean, aesthetically pleasing appearance by concealing the apparatus inside the members, facilitating efficient assembly and disassembly.
Implementation Method 1
a predetermined number of elastic members having an elastic force capable of maintaining the second ends of the two half members to be closed
Data Source
AI summary
A connecting apparatus includes a main body having a first half member and a second half member; the second ends of the two half members configured to open or close relatively to each other; an accommodating cavity formed between the first and second half members; a driving member and an actuating member installed inside the accommodating cavity; the driving member capable of driving the actuating member to move toward the second ends of the two half members to an opened position, thereby expanding the second ends of the two half members outward. The connecting apparatus is installed inside an elongated member, and latch portions on the second ends of the two half members are able to latch onto another elongated member to achieve a connection between elongated members.