Groove Crosspiece Runner Fixing With Post-Assembly Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for fixing groove-shaped crosspieces to furniture gaps require runners to be inserted before the crosspiece is positioned, leading to complex and time-consuming assembly processes, with potential mistakes and structural limitations.
Innovation Solution
A system where the runner can be assembled after the crosspiece is in place, utilizing a bracket that rotates within the guide to secure the runner, allowing it to slide and lock into position, facilitated by a grip tab and locking plate for easy adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the runner is inserted into the guide before positioning the crosspiece, then the runner can be securely fixed, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional assembly sequence by allowing the crosspiece to be positioned first, then inserting the runner into the guide afterward. The guide is designed with an opening that allows retroactive insertion of the runner, eliminating the need for pre-assembly and reducing assembly complexity and time while maintaining secure fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide is designed with a dynamic opening mechanism that allows the runner to be inserted after the crosspiece is positioned. The opening can be accessed from the side, enabling flexible insertion timing and sequence, which transforms the static assembly process into a more adaptable dynamic procedure.
2Manufacturing precision
If the runner is inserted before crosspiece positioning, then proper positioning can be ensured, but mistakes require removal and repositioning of the crosspiece
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reverses the assembly logic by allowing crosspiece positioning to occur first, followed by runner insertion. This inversion ensures positioning accuracy is achieved during the main positioning step, while runner insertion becomes a simple subsequent operation that can be adjusted without removing the crosspiece.
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly process is segmented into independent stages: crosspiece positioning followed by runner insertion. The guide and runner are designed as separate components that can be assembled independently, allowing each to be optimized for its specific function without compromising the other.
3Ease of operation
If the guide opening is wide enough to allow runner insertion, then assembly is simplified, but the runner may escape during positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The guide opening is designed to be dynamically accessible during assembly but provides passive retention during operation. The opening geometry allows easy insertion from the side while the guide's internal structure naturally retains the runner in its operational position without requiring additional locking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide acts as an intermediary structure that mediates between the need for easy runner insertion and the need for secure retention. Its specific geometric design provides a pathway for insertion while simultaneously providing retention through its structural configuration.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 1c~1d
Figure 2
AI summary
Described is a system (1) for fixing a groove-shaped crosspiece (T) to a gap (M') of a piece of furniture (M), which allows an easier assembly relative to prior art systems.