Flat Panel Connecting Units with Resilient Claw Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional geometric construction systems experience poor connection between flat panels due to inadequate engagement between protrusions and recesses, leading to disconnection during use, and require high precision in the shape and size of resilient end portions for proper flexibility and engagement.
Innovation Solution
The geometric construction system features flat panels with side edges and connecting units that include first and second engaging parts with protrusions and recesses, where the second engaging part has resilient claws that project around the recess, allowing for edgewise interengagement and rotation, and facilitating secure connection through the formation of gaps and slits that enhance insertion and resilient forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional connecting units with protrusions and recesses are used for edgewise interengagement, then flat panels can be assembled together, but the connection is relatively poor and panels can disconnect during construction or play
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by adding resilient claws to specific locations on the engaging parts. The claws are positioned at predetermined locations on the first and second engaging parts, providing localized enhancement to the engagement mechanism. This allows the connection to be stronger and more reliable without changing the overall structure of the connecting units.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient claws are designed with curved or arcuate shapes that allow them to flex and deform elastically. This curvature enables the claws to deform during the engagement process and then spring back to provide continuous contact pressure, maintaining strong engagement between the connecting units while accommodating minor misalignments.
2Reliability
If the shape and size of resilient end portions are made with high precision, then adequate flexibility and engagement force are provided, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the connecting units by adding resilient claws with specific material properties and geometric characteristics. The claws are designed with appropriate thickness, length, and curvature radius that can be manufactured within standard tolerances. By optimizing these parameters, the design achieves reliable engagement without requiring high-precision manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient claws are designed to automatically adjust their engagement force based on the actual connection conditions. As the connecting units are assembled, the claws deform elastically to accommodate variations in manufacturing tolerances and then spring back to provide the necessary engagement force. This self-adjusting mechanism reduces the need for high-precision manufacturing while maintaining reliable engagement.
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 provides a secure and stable connection between flat panels, allowing for reliable assembly and rotation, while reducing the need for high precision in the shape and size of resilient end portions, thus improving the durability and ease of use of the construction system.
Implementation Method 1
The second engaging part is further formed with resilient claws that project from and that are angularly displaced around a periphery of the recess. The claws of the second engaging part on one of the flat panels clamp resiliently the protrusion of the first engaging part on another of the flat panels
Data Source
AI summary
A geometric construction system includes: a plurality of flat panels; and a plurality of connecting units provided on side edges of the flat panels. Each connecting unit includes first and second engaging parts. The first engaging part is formed with a protrusion, and the second engaging part is formed with a recess such that the protrusion of the first engaging part on one of the flat panels is releasably engageable with the recess of the second engaging part on another of the flat panels. The second engaging part is further formed with resilient claws that project from a periphery of the recess. The claws of the second engaging part on one of the flat panels clamp resiliently the protusion of the first engaging part on another of the flat panels when the protrusion is moved into the recess of the second engaging part.