Edge strip for workpieces, in particular pieces of furniture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing edge strips for furniture often result in unsightly joints and unsatisfactory fastening due to issues like smearing, misplacement, and the use of hot melt adhesives, which can lead to waste and aesthetic defects.
Innovation Solution
An edge strip comprising a functional layer made of a combination of aliphatic and aromatic thermoplastic polyurethanes, with optional fillers and nucleating agents, is used to improve adhesion and reduce smearing, utilizing methods like laser or hot air activation for affixing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If hot melt adhesive is used to affix the edge strip to the workpiece, then the fastening strength is improved, but visible joints and unsightly appearance result
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the hot melt adhesive layer from the edge strip structure, extracting the harmful element that causes visible joints and unsightly appearance while maintaining the fastening function through alternative means (laser welding or direct adhesion of the functional layer to the workpiece)
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameters of the edge strip by incorporating a functional layer with specific adhesive properties (different from the structural layer) that can achieve strong fastening without requiring visible hot melt adhesive, thereby resolving the contradiction between strength and appearance
2Object-affected harmful factors
If completely adhesive-free connection is used to avoid hot melt joints, then the appearance is improved, but unsatisfactory fastening results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the edge strip into two functional layers: a structural layer for mechanical strength and a functional layer specifically designed for adhesion. This segmentation allows the functional layer to provide satisfactory fastening while remaining invisible or minimal, thus resolving the contradiction between appearance and fastening strength
3Strength
If the edge strip is pressed against the workpiece during affixing, then the bonding is improved, but the edge strip moves and positioning precision is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs preliminary positioning mechanisms (such as positioning elements or guides) that secure the edge strip in the correct position before the affixing process begins, preventing movement during pressing while still allowing adequate bonding pressure to be applied
4Strength
If the adhesive material is heated during affixing, then the adhesion is improved, but smearing and protrusion from the joint occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the thermal and rheological parameters of the functional layer by selecting materials with appropriate melting points and viscosity characteristics that allow adhesion activation at temperatures and pressures that minimize smearing and protrusion while maintaining adequate bonding strength
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 edge strip achieves secure fastening to furniture with reduced smearing and improved positioning, enhancing the aesthetic appeal by minimizing visible joints and adhesive residue.
Implementation Method 1
the surface of the edge strip is melted by laser radiation, so that a laser-welded connection of an adhesive-free edge strip to the furniture panel takes place
Implementation Method 2
the functional layer contains an aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane and an aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane
Data Source
AI summary
Herein described is an edge strip, in particular for pieces of furniture, including at least one functional layer for affixing the edge strip to a narrow side of a workpiece, in particular a piece of furniture, wherein the functional layer contains an aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane and an aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane. Further described is a method for manufacturing the edge strip, affixing an edge strip to a narrow side of a workpiece, used of an edge strip as well as the use of a relief pattern to reduce blocking of the edge strip.