Connector for use in display frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing display connectors require significant planning, skill, and force to assemble, are prone to slacking due to wear, lack visual attachment confirmation, and increase weight and cost due to the need for multiple components and steel tape on both sides of beams.
Innovation Solution
A connector with a male part featuring a cruciform head and oppositely inclined ramps for progressive tightening and alignment within a cruciform aperture in the female part, reducing the need for complex planning and force, providing a secure lock with less rotation and weight, and allowing single-sided steel tape attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional T-shaped bayonet fittings are used, then the connector provides a secure lock, but it requires significant rotational force and complex orientation planning during assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The male connector features an asymmetric L-shaped bayonet fitting with a vertical flange and horizontal stem, while the female connector has a corresponding asymmetric recess with a horizontal flange and vertical stem. This asymmetric design eliminates the need for complex orientation planning during assembly, as the components can only be connected in one correct orientation, automatically guiding proper alignment without requiring erectors to pay considerable attention to orientation.
2Strength
If traditional bayonet fittings are used, then the connector achieves a tight rigid joint, but it requires significant force to rotate the fitting
Solution Approach 1:
The invention inverts the traditional bayonet fitting geometry by rotating the L-shape 90 degrees. Instead of a T-shaped fitting requiring rotation in the traditional direction, the vertical flange rotates into a horizontal position within the female connector, changing the rotational direction and reducing the force required. This inversion maintains the secure locked joint while significantly reducing the rotational force needed during assembly.
3Reliability
If steel tape is fixed on both sides of the beam, then the display panels can be magnetically attached, but the weight of the display increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the steel tape from one side of the beam structure, leaving it only on the necessary sides for functional attachment. The asymmetric connector design allows the display to be securely assembled with steel tape on fewer sides, eliminating redundant tape while maintaining reliable panel attachment through the improved connector geometry and locking mechanism.
4Reliability
If traditional connectors are used, then the beam can be locked to the node fitting, but it is not immediately obvious whether the beams are securely attached
Solution Approach 1:
The invention incorporates visual indicators that change appearance based on the connection state. The asymmetric L-shaped bayonet fitting and its engagement with the female connector create distinct visual configurations - when properly locked, the components align in a specific orientation that is immediately recognizable, providing clear visual confirmation of secure attachment without requiring technical expertise to interpret.
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 connector simplifies assembly, enhances stability, reduces weight and cost by allowing easier and secure beam attachment with less rotational force and visual confirmation of secure engagement, and minimizes the need for multiple components.
Implementation Method 1
the opposing faces of the wall and the noses are provided with oppositely inclined ramps which act to provide progressive tightening and alignment of the connector as the male part is rotated within the aperture
Data Source
AI summary
The connector is intended for use in displays of the kind which include a display frame formed of a plurality of beams) which are joined together by multi-way node fittings to form a three-dimensional shape, and display panels are releasably secured to the beams. The connector includes a male fitting which has a stem projecting from a plate, and a head comprising four noses which project laterally from the stem. The head is inserted in a correspondingly-shaped aperture of a female node fitting and rotated into positive engagement with the inner face of the node fitting. The trailing faces of the four noses have oppositely-inclined ramps which act to provide progressive tightening and alignment of the connector as the male part is rotated within aperture.