Two-Dimensional Bracing in Door Frame Corner Connectors
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing corner connectors for door and window frames typically provide bracing in only one dimension, which may be insufficient due to dimensional mismatches between hollow profiles, lacking assurance of complete bracing in both perpendicular directions.
Innovation Solution
The corner connector features an expansion part connected to lateral expansion tracks that spread apart when expanded, providing bracing in two dimensions through a U-shaped cross-section structure, ensuring tension in both vertical and horizontal directions with elastic properties to manage dimensional coordination challenges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single expansion part is used for bracing, then the device complexity is low, but the bracing reliability in both dimensions is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The expansion part is divided into two separate components: a first expansion part for bracing in a first dimension and a second expansion part for bracing in a second dimension perpendicular to the first. This segmentation allows each expansion part to independently provide bracing in its respective dimension, thereby improving overall bracing reliability without requiring a single complex multi-directional expansion mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single-dimension bracing to two-dimension bracing by adding the second expansion part that operates in a perpendicular dimension. The first expansion part expands along the longitudinal axis while the second expansion part expands perpendicular to the first, creating a cross-shaped bracing pattern that provides stability in both dimensions simultaneously.
2Reliability
If expansion parts expand in perpendicular dimensions, then bracing in two dimensions is achieved, but the coordination of dimensions becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the expansion functions into independent first and second expansion parts, each operating in its own dimension, the patent eliminates the need for complex coordination mechanisms. Each expansion part can be actuated independently through its own drive mechanism, simplifying the control architecture while achieving complete two-dimensional bracing.
Solution Approach 2:
The expansion parts are designed with elastic properties that allow them to adapt to dimensional variations in the hollow profile. The elastic expansion tracks and bracing elements can flex and adjust to accommodate manufacturing tolerances and profile variations, reducing the need for precise dimensional coordination while maintaining effective bracing in both dimensions.
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 solution ensures robust bracing in both dimensions, enhancing the reliability and effectiveness of the corner connector's holding power without increasing design complexity, suitable for both plastic and metallic hollow profiles.
Implementation Method 1
it is expedient here if the tension in the second dimension takes place with considerable elasticity
Implementation Method 2
a spreading mechanism in the shaft, which allows a spreading part to be splayed off the shaft by longitudinal displacement of a wedge connection
Implementation Method 3
a weldable or adhesively bondable inclined surface that closes the shank and runs in accordance with the miter of the hollow profile
Data Source
Figure 1~7
AI summary
The connector has a cross sectional rectangular shaft (10) for insertion into a frame hollow profile. An inclined surface (12) runs with respect to a miter joint of the profile. The inclined surface and a spreading device are provided for twisting the shaft in the hollow profile. The spreading device spreads a spreading part from a rectangular portion of the shaft. The spreading part is connected with spreading channels at both adjacent sides of the shaft, where the spreading channels are prestressed by accumulating on spreading surfaces while spreading the spreading part.