Connecting means
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connecting means for furniture or machine parts lack simplicity and reliability in connecting components, often requiring high forces for assembly and precision, which can lead to component damage and increased manufacturing complexity.
Innovation Solution
A connecting means featuring a first connecting element with a spring element and a second connecting element with a receiving element, where the spring element engages with the receiving element, and reinforcing elements enhance the spring force, allowing for a simple and secure connection by utilizing auxiliary spring elements and stiffening elements to increase the holding force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional connecting means are used to connect furniture or machine parts, then the connection can be achieved, but the assembly process requires high forces and precision which increases the risk of component damage and manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a spring element that provides dynamic, elastic engagement between connecting elements. The spring element can deform elastically during assembly to accommodate tolerances and then maintains a constant holding force in the connected state, replacing rigid mechanical connections with a dynamic system that is both simpler to manufacture and more reliable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the mechanical parameters of the connection system by introducing a spring element with specific elastic properties. The spring element's force-displacement characteristics allow the connection to accommodate variations in assembly parameters (tolerances) while maintaining reliable connection, eliminating the need for high-precision manufacturing.
2Force
If conventional connecting means are used, then components can be connected, but high assembly forces are required which can damage components
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element provides a dynamic connection mechanism where the elastic deformation absorbs assembly forces and gradually engages the connection. This dynamic engagement replaces high instantaneous forces with progressive elastic deformation, preventing component damage while achieving reliable connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element acts as a cushioning element that absorbs and distributes assembly forces before the final connection is established. The elastic properties of the spring element protect components from shock and impact forces during the assembly process.
3Ease of operation
If simple connecting means are used, then assembly is easier, but the holding force may be insufficient for reliable connection
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element creates a dynamic connection system that is simple to assemble (just insert and engage) but provides strong holding force through elastic recovery. The spring element's natural elasticity converts simple insertion motion into sustained connection force without requiring complex assembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element is self-actuating - it automatically engages and maintains connection through its elastic properties without requiring external actuation or complex mechanisms. The spring element's inherent elasticity provides both the simplicity of operation and the strength of connection.
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
The solution enables components to be connected simply and reliably with a high holding force, reducing the risk of damage during assembly and simplifying the manufacturing process by allowing for tolerance compensation and easy insertion into pre-existing grooves, while maintaining mechanical stability.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element which is configured to come into engagement with the receiving element
Implementation Method 2
the connecting means, in particular the first connecting element and/or the second connecting element, includes a reinforcing element for reinforcing a spring force of the spring element
Data Source
AI summary
A connecting means for connecting a first component and a second component is provided, in particular for connecting furniture parts or machine parts, by means of which the components may be connected to one another simply and reliably. The connecting means includes a first connecting element which in the connected condition of the components is arranged on the first component, and a second connecting element which in the connected condition of the components is arranged on the second component, wherein, for connecting the first component and the second component, a spring element of the first connecting element is configured to come into engagement with a receiving element of the second connecting element, wherein the connecting means, in particular the first connecting element and/or the second connecting element, includes a reinforcing element for reinforcing a spring force of the spring element.