Corner connector for rod-shaped profile elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing corner connectors for rod-shaped profile elements are limited in their ability to create stable and complex frame structures, particularly when dealing with non-square rectangular geometries and cannot effectively absorb transverse forces, requiring multiple connectors and inner frames for stability.
Innovation Solution
A corner connector design featuring perpendicularly oriented connection sections with a cross strut and tensioning element that allows for a single cross brace to connect two profile elements, providing a form-fitting connection that absorbs high transverse forces and enables the construction of complex frames by ensuring correct orientation and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If conventional corner connectors are used for rod-shaped profile elements, then assembly is simple, but the stability and ability to absorb transverse forces is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional segments: connection sections for joining profile elements, a cross member for providing structural support, and a clamping element for securing the assembly. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges multiple functions into a single integrated connector: the connecting element joins profile elements, the cross member provides transverse support and force absorption, and the clamping element secures the assembly. This combination achieves high stability without requiring multiple separate components or complex internal structures.
2Strength
If multiple corner connectors and inner frames are used to achieve stability, then transverse forces are absorbed, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector integrates the cross member functionality directly into the corner connection assembly, eliminating the need for separate inner frames or additional stabilizing components. The cross member is positioned to effectively absorb transverse forces while being structurally integrated with the connecting element.
Solution Approach 2:
The single connector design performs multiple functions: joining profile elements at corners, providing transverse force absorption through the cross member, and maintaining structural stability. This multi-functional design replaces the need for multiple specialized components.
3Productivity
If a single cross brace is used to connect profile elements, then assembly is quick and easy, but the connection stability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The cross member is pre-positioned and integrated with the connecting element before final assembly. This preliminary configuration ensures correct orientation and alignment of profile elements, allowing for quick assembly while maintaining high connection stability through the pre-established structural geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping element acts as an intermediary that secures the cross member to the profile elements. When actuated, it pulls or pushes the profile elements toward the connecting element, creating a stable connection that maintains reliability while enabling easy assembly and disassembly.
4Adaptability or versatility
If corner connectors are designed for non-square rectangular geometries, then versatility is improved, but the ability to absorb transverse forces without inner frames deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design with perpendicular connection sections and an integrated cross member provides universal applicability to various geometries including square, rectangular, and non-square configurations. The cross member's orientation and positioning automatically adapt to different geometries while maintaining the ability to absorb transverse forces without requiring inner frames.
Solution Approach 2:
The cross member is strategically positioned and oriented to provide local reinforcement at critical points where transverse forces act. This localized quality enhancement allows the connector to maintain high transverse stability across different geometric configurations without adding overall structural 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
The corner connector achieves a high level of stability and ease of assembly, allowing for the creation of complex frame structures with various cross-sectional shapes and materials, including metal, plastic, and wood, and can be easily dismantled, making it suitable for diverse applications.
Implementation Method 1
a clamping element which detachably acts on the cross member such that, when the clamping element is actuated, the cross member pulls or pushes the profile elements to be joined towards the connecting element
Implementation Method 2
each of which is designed such that a connection section and an end face of the rod-shaped profile elements to be joined interlock
Implementation Method 3
at least one cross member whose ends are designed such that an end of the cross member and a connecting section provided on a lateral surface of the rod-shaped profile elements to be joined are detachably interlock
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a corner connector (10) for rod-shaped profile elements, with a connection element (11) which comprises at least two attachment portions (20, 21) which are oriented substantially perpendicular to each other and which are each designed such that an attachment portion (20, 21) and a front end of the rod-shaped profile elements (18, 19, 39) to be connected engage in each case one inside the other, at least one transverse strut (12) of which the ends (26, 27) are designed such that an end (26, 27) of the transverse strut (12) and a connection portion (30, 31, 48, 49) provided on a lateral surface of the rod-shaped profile elements (18, 19, 39) to be connected in each case engage releasably one inside the other, and a clamping element (13) which clamps the transverse strut (12) releasably against the corner connector. The invention further relates to an assembly system composed of such corner connectors and supporting or holding frames composed of such corner connectors and profile elements.