Extruded Profile Cross-Section for Flexible Load Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing extruded profiles for structural applications require complex locking elements and pre-insertion of nuts, limiting flexibility in load distribution and complicating connections, especially when profiles are already connected.
Innovation Solution
An extruded profile design with a core and arms featuring radial and tangential segments that allow for different types of couplings and nut insertion even after the profile is connected, using a joining device with convex grooves and teeth to distribute loads and facilitate nut insertion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional locking elements and pre-insertion of nuts are used, then the profile can be connected, but the flexibility in load distribution is limited and the connection process is complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The profile cross-section is segmented into multiple sectors separated by longitudinal separation elements, allowing independent locking elements in each sector. This segmentation enables flexible load distribution across different directions while simplifying the connection process by allowing localized adjustments in each sector rather than requiring complex global locking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements are designed with multi-functionality to handle different types of loads and connection scenarios. The same basic locking element structure can be used across all sectors, providing universal applicability while adapting to specific load requirements through its geometric design and positioning capabilities.
2Stability of the object's composition
If profiles are connected at the ends with interface portions, then the structure is stable, but nuts cannot be inserted after connection
Solution Approach 1:
The locking elements are designed to be inserted into the profile cavities before the interface portions are fully connected. The separation elements create preliminary access paths that allow locking elements to be positioned in advance, ensuring both structural stability upon connection and ease of operation during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements are nested within the profile cavities formed by the separation elements. This nesting allows the locking elements to be contained within the profile structure while still being accessible for insertion before final connection, maintaining both stability and operational ease.
3Ease of operation
If T-shaped elements with side chamfers are used, then nut insertion is facilitated, but the structural portions become more fragile
Solution Approach 1:
The fragile T-shaped elements are extracted from the design and replaced with separation elements that create cavities for locking element insertion. This extraction removes the structural weakness while preserving the ease of nut insertion capability through the cavity-based approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The separation elements act as intermediaries that create the necessary cavities and access paths without requiring fragile T-shaped protrusions. These intermediary elements facilitate locking element insertion while maintaining the integrity and strength of the main profile structure.
Data Source
AI summary
An extruded profile defining a normal section surface, a horizontal loading direction along the normal section surface and a vertical loading direction along the normal section surface perpendicular to the horizontal loading direction The profile includes a core arranged in a central position at the intersection of the directions, a plurality of arms each including a radial segment radially connected to the core and a tangential segment perpendicularly connected to the radial segment The radial segments of the adjacent arms are perpendicular to each other and each oriented 45° to the horizontal load direction and/or the vertical load direction, and the tangential segments of the adjacent arms are configured to simultaneously support the same load along the horizontal load direction and/or the vertical load direction.