Adjustable Facade Fastener With Threaded Locking Against Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for attaching components to thermally insulated facades lack length adjustability and secure holding force, making it difficult to adapt to varying insulation thicknesses and ensure stable fixation.
Innovation Solution
A connecting element with a locking mechanism comprising a base element, an attachment element, and a securing element, where the attachment element is threaded onto the base element to adjust length, and the securing element secures the position by bracing against the base element, preventing further twisting and allowing reversible adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-length connecting element is used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot adapt to varying insulation thicknesses
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element is divided into multiple segments (first connecting element, second connecting element, and intermediate element) that can be relative movable to each other. This segmentation allows the overall length to be adjusted by changing the relative positions of the segments, enabling adaptation to different insulation thicknesses while keeping each individual segment's structure relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element transitions from a fixed-length design to a dynamically adjustable design. The length can be changed during installation by adjusting the relative positions of the movable segments, and once the desired length is achieved, the position is locked. This dynamic capability provides adaptability without requiring a completely complex predetermined structure.
2Ease of operation
If a threaded connection is used for adjustment, then length adjustability is achieved, but the connection may rotate and lose holding force
Solution Approach 1:
A securing element is introduced as an intermediary component between the first and second connecting elements. This securing element engages with threaded sections on both elements and, when twisted into a locking position, prevents rotational movement. The intermediary securing element maintains the adjustable length setting while providing the necessary anti-rotation function to preserve holding force.
Solution Approach 2:
The anti-rotation feature is applied locally at specific points where the securing element engages with the connecting elements via threaded sections. Rather than making the entire connection rigid and complex, the local threading and locking mechanism provides the necessary rotational restraint exactly where needed, maintaining both adjustability and reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components are used for adjustment and locking, then functionality is improved, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The securing element serves multiple functions: it connects the first and second connecting elements, provides the locking mechanism through its securing section with threaded engagement, and prevents rotation through its anti-rotation feature. By making the securing element multi-functional, the patent reduces the need for separate adjustment and locking components, thereby managing complexity while maintaining functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment and locking functions are merged into a single integrated system. The threaded sections on the connecting elements serve both as adjustment mechanisms and as part of the locking mechanism when engaged by the securing element. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components needed compared to having distinct adjustment and locking devices.
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
Enables adjustable length to match different insulation thicknesses and secures the attachment element in place, preventing rotation and allowing for easy re-adjustment, thus providing a stable and adaptable attachment solution.
Implementation Method 1
The securing element (26) is twisted into the attachment element (20)... the securing element secures the position by bracing against the base element, preventing further twisting
Implementation Method 2
the attachment element has an internal thread for the screw connection and the securing element has an external thread... the required length of the connection can be determined by the variable screwing depth
Data Source
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AI summary
Connecting element (100) in multi-part design with a base element (10, 10', 10") and an attachment element (20, 20'), wherein the connecting element (100) is designed to be length-adjustable and has a locking element (26) with which a length L can be reversibly fixed.