Flexible Tongue Panel Connection for Tool-Free Perpendicular Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection arrangements for panels often require tools for assembly and do not provide a strong, tool-free mounting solution that can accommodate slight variations in panel dimensions.
Innovation Solution
A connection arrangement featuring an elongate flexible tongue element in an angled insertion groove of one panel that cooperates with an angled tongue receiving groove on another panel, allowing for compression and extension through the plane of the second panel, enhancing strength and accommodating variations in panel dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional mechanical connection arrangements are used, then assembly strength can be achieved, but tools are required for assembly which reduces assembly efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The connection arrangement enables self-service assembly through the interaction between the flexible tongue element and the groove. The tongue element automatically engages with the groove when panels are brought together, creating a secure connection without requiring external tools. The flexible nature of the tongue allows it to deform during insertion and then lock into place, providing both ease of operation and assembly strength.
2Stability of the object's composition
If rigid connection elements are used, then structural stability is improved, but ability to accommodate panel dimension variations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible tongue element changes its physical state from a deformed condition during insertion to a locked condition in the groove. This parameter change allows the tongue to adapt to slight variations in panel dimensions while maintaining structural stability once connected. The flexibility parameter enables accommodation of dimensional variations, while the locking mechanism preserves structural integrity.
3Ease of manufacture
If simple groove designs are used, then manufacturing complexity is reduced, but connection strength is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The connection arrangement combines two different elements - the flexible tongue element and the groove structure - to achieve connection strength that neither element could provide alone. The tongue element provides flexibility and engagement force, while the groove provides structural support and locking geometry. This composite approach maintains relatively simple manufacturing for each component while achieving high overall connection 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
This solution provides a strong, tool-free connection that improves assembly efficiency and accommodates slight variations in panel dimensions, enhancing the structural integrity of the assembled panels.
Implementation Method 1
an elongate flexible tongue element arranged in an elongate insertion groove in the first panel at an angle relative the first main plane... towards which the flexible tongue element is arranged to be compressed during connection of the two panels
Data Source
AI summary
A connection arrangement for panels including a first panel having a first main plane and a second panel having a second main plane. The first main plane is essentially perpendicular to the second main plane in a connected state. The second panel includes a groove on a first face adapted to receive a first edge of the first panel. The connection arrangement includes an elongate flexible tongue element arranged in an elongate insertion groove in the first panel at an angle of less than 45° relative the first main plane and arranged to cooperate with an elongate tongue receiving groove arranged in the groove of the second panel for connecting the two panels to one another. The elongate insertion groove and the elongate flexible tongue element are configured to extend through the plane of the first face of the second panel when the two panels are in a connected state.