Connector Rib Presses Seal Into Transom Screw Channel

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Solution Overview

Problem

The tightness of connections between posts and bars in post-bar constructions is often problematic, leading to gaps that can allow water ingress, which existing solutions like silicone or butyl seals struggle to consistently and accurately seal.

Innovation Solution

A connecting group comprising a connector and a seal, where the seal has a central groove and the connector has a rib that inserts into the groove, ensuring a secure sealing by pressing the seal into the screw channel and drainage channels, thereby minimizing gaps between the post and bar.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If silicone or butyl sealant is used to close the gap between transom and mullion, then the tightness of the connection is improved, but the installation process becomes cumbersome and the sealing accuracy deteriorates due to difficulty in control

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetightness of connectionVSAvoidinstallation process

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the chemical sealing method (silicone/butyl sealant) with a mechanical sealing system consisting of a connector with an integrated seal and pressing mechanism. The seal is mechanically pressed into place by the connector, eliminating the need for manual sealant application and curing processes, thereby simplifying installation while maintaining reliable sealing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a dedicated seal component as an intermediary between the connector and the gap. This seal acts as a mediator that is mechanically pressed into the gap by the connector, providing a controlled and reliable sealing interface without requiring direct manual application of sealants.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If silicone sealant is used to ensure a tight seal, then the sealing effectiveness is improved, but the sealing accuracy deteriorates because it is difficult to control the sealant application

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesealing effectivenessVSAvoidsealing accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the imprecise chemical sealant application process with a precise mechanical pressing system. The connector incorporates a pressing mechanism that uniformly applies mechanical force to the seal, ensuring consistent and accurate sealing without the variability inherent in manual sealant application.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the sealing mechanism from chemical (sealant viscosity and application control) to mechanical (pressing force and contact pressure). This parameter change enables precise control over the sealing process through mechanical means, improving sealing accuracy and consistency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If a front connector is used to close the gap between mullion and transom profile, then the tightness is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for additional components and installation steps

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovetightnessVSAvoidconnector assembly

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the connector and seal into a single integrated assembly. The seal is incorporated directly into the connector structure, eliminating the need for separate sealant application steps and reducing the overall complexity of the connection system while maintaining effective gap closure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector is designed to perform multiple functions: structural connection between transom and mullion, and integrated sealing of the gap. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, simplifying the overall assembly while achieving both mechanical and sealing objectives.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 provides a reliable and consistent waterproof seal between the post and bar, reducing the risk of leakage and improving the overall integrity of the post-bar connection.

Implementation Method 1

the connector has a rib which, in the assembled state, is designed to engage in the groove and to press the seal against the screw channel

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCompression: Compression

Implementation Method 2

the connector is designed to be placed onto the seal in an assembled state and has a rib which, in the assembled state, is designed to engage in the groove and to press the seal against the screw channel

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentEP4372169B1Connector assembly and mullion-transom construction

Publication Date: 2025.04.02 HYDRO EXTRUDED SOLUTIONS AS

Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~3b
Figure 3c

AI summary

Connector assembly for connecting a transom to a post comprising a connector and a seal, wherein the seal is configured to seal watertight drainage channels of the transom and a screw channel arranged between the drainage channels at one end of the transom in an assembled state, and wherein the seal has a central groove which is arranged within the screw channel in an assembled state, and wherein the connector is configured to be placed on the seal in an assembled state and has a rib which is configured to engage in the groove in the assembled state and to press the seal against the screw channel.