Coupling Guide for Automatic Object Connection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing assemblies face challenges in achieving a direct and efficient operative connection between two objects located on opposite sides of a constructive member, such as in open roof constructions for vehicles, where the objects need to be synchronized but are initially positioned separately.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves providing first and second objects with facing ends equipped with cooperating coupling provisions, where at least one object is housed in a guide, allowing the coupling provisions to move from a disengaged to an engaged position, enabling automatic connection and disconnection, using mechanisms like latches or gripper members with spring load or flared ends for smooth operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If coupling provisions are provided on both objects for direct connection, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional coupling mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The guide acts as an intermediary element that facilitates the connection between the two coupling provisions. The guide receives the first coupling provision and guides it to engage with the second coupling provision, enabling reliable connection without requiring complex direct coupling mechanisms between the objects
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism is extracted from the objects themselves and placed in the guide. The guide houses the first coupling provision and uses it to engage the second coupling provision, simplifying the overall system by separating the coupling function from the objects
2Ease of operation
If automatic connection is implemented through guide engagement, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to guide structure
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service connection where the movement of the objects automatically causes the guide to engage the first coupling provision and connect it to the second coupling provision. No manual intervention is required - the connection happens automatically through the inherent movement and engagement mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The guide combines multiple functions: it guides the first coupling provision, houses it during movement, and facilitates engagement with the second coupling provision. This merging of functions into a single component simplifies the overall system architecture
3Ease of operation
If spring-loaded coupling provision is used for automatic disconnection, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to spring mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded coupling provision enables periodic engagement and disengagement through the to-and-fro movement of the objects. The spring automatically loads and unloads during each movement cycle, facilitating repeated connection and disconnection operations
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling provision transitions from a static connection to a dynamic one controlled by spring force. The spring allows the coupling provision to move between engaged and disengaged states based on the movement and force applied to the objects
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
This approach facilitates a simple and automatic connection between the objects, ensuring reliable synchronization and easy disconnection without complex measures, enhancing the operational efficiency in applications like open roof constructions for vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
the coupling provision which is capable of cooperation with said guide is spring loaded to a position in which both objects are not connected
Implementation Method 2
said guide has a flared end for engaging the coupling provision which is capable of cooperation with said guide
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
Figure 7~8
AI summary
An assembly is provided for operatively connecting a first object (1) which is capable of a to and fro movement, with a second object (2), in such a manner that the second object, when connected to the first object, will move in correspondence with the first object. The first and second objects are provided with first and second facing ends, respectively, provided with cooperating first and second coupling provisions (3, 4), respectively, wherein at least one of said objects is housed in a guide (5). The coupling provision of at least one of said facing ends is capable of cooperation with said guide for moving said coupling provision from a first position disengaging the other coupling provision to a second position engaging the other coupling provision in which both objects are connected.