Cuboid Profile Connector with Nested Grooves for Frame Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing profile connectors for frame constructions lack modularity, stability, and aesthetic appeal, often resulting in wrinkles and visibility issues when spanning flat elements, and require excessive components and materials for expansion.
Innovation Solution
A cuboid-shaped profile connector with strategically designed grooves and connecting structures that allow for seamless integration of flat elements, providing stability and concealment within the frame structure, enabling modular and self-supporting three-dimensional constructions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a cube-shaped profile element with slots is used to enable modular construction, then modularity is improved, but the connector cannot hold flat elements in corners causing wrinkles and visibility
Solution Approach 1:
The profile connector is divided into multiple functional surfaces: end surfaces with end grooves and side surfaces with side grooves. This segmentation allows the flat element to be held along multiple edges independently, ensuring secure corner holding and wrinkle-free appearance while maintaining modularity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a two-dimensional slot arrangement to a three-dimensional groove system with multiple opening directions. The end grooves and side grooves create a multi-dimensional holding capability that enables the connector to secure flat elements in corner positions effectively.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different components are used to fulfill design requirements, then functionality is improved, but device complexity and material quantity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The profile connector is designed as a universal component that can fulfill multiple functions: connecting profile elements, holding flat elements, providing corner support, and enabling modular expansion. The single connector type replaces the need for multiple different components, reducing complexity while maintaining design flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines the functions of connection, holding, and support into a single integrated profile connector. The end grooves, side grooves, and connecting structures are merged into one component that performs all necessary functions, eliminating the need for separate elements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional profiles and connecting devices are added to extend frame structures, then adaptability is improved, but cost and material quantity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The profile connector features nested groove structures where end grooves and side grooves are integrated within the connector body. This nesting allows the connector to hold flat elements and provide support without requiring additional external components, reducing material quantity while maintaining extension capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The profile connector is designed to be self-sufficient in providing connection and holding functions. The integrating grooves and connecting structures enable the connector to perform all necessary functions independently without requiring additional supports or components, reducing overall material usage.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a cuboid profile connector (1) for connecting profile elements in a frame construction. An end wall (10) comprises, viewed clockwise, a first end edge (10a) and a second end edge (10b). A rear wall (20) comprises a second rear edge (20b) extending parallel to the second end edge (10b), between which a second side wall (40) extends. The end wall (10) of the profile connector has a first end groove (401) extending parallel to and spaced apart from the first end edge (10a) over the entire length of the first end edge, and a second end groove (402) extending parallel to and spaced apart from the second end edge (10b) over the entire length of the second end edge. The second side wall (40) has a first side groove (501) extending parallel to the second side edge (40e) over the entire length of the second side edge, which opens into the first end groove (401).The third side wall (50), the fourth side wall (60) and the back wall (20) have a connecting structure (350, 360, 320).