Frame Component Connector With Movable Locking Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for attaching frame components, such as those used in furniture frames, often require flexing of structural components, which can weaken the structural integrity and lead to failure during assembly or disassembly.
Innovation Solution
A component connector with a body that receives portions of two components and a locking member that moves between a locked and unlocked position, allowing for secure connection without undue stress or flexing of components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a sleeve connector is used to attach frame components, then assembly time is reduced, but structural integrity is weakened due to required flexing
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into a body portion and a separate locking member. The body receives the frame components while the locking member independently secures them, eliminating the need to flex structural components during assembly. This segmentation allows the receiving ends to be inserted without stress while the locking member provides the securing function separately.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member acts as an intermediary element that mediates between the frame components and the connector body. It provides the securing function without requiring the frame components themselves to flex or deform, thus preserving their structural integrity while still achieving a secure connection.
2Ease of operation
If frame components are flexed to accommodate a sleeve connector, then connection is achieved, but component strength is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connector functionality is segmented into receiving (body) and securing (locking member) operations. The frame components only need to be inserted into the body without flexing, while the locking member independently provides the securing action that previously required component flexing.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member is designed to be movable relative to the connector body, transitioning between locked and unlocked positions. This dynamic element provides the securing function without requiring the rigid frame components to flex, allowing easy connection while maintaining component strength.
3Strength
If a locking member is added to the connector, then structural integrity is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into distinct functional elements (body and locking member) that can be manufactured separately and assembled. This modular approach maintains structural integrity through the locking mechanism while allowing each component to be optimized independently, potentially simplifying manufacturing despite the increased number of parts.
Data Source
AI summary
A component connector includes a body having a first end for receiving a portion of a first component and a second end for receiving a portion of a second component, a locking member moveable relative to the connector body between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein, in the locked position, the locking member engages with the connector and restricts movement of at least one of the first component and the second component portions relative to the connector body, and in the unlocked position the locking member at least partially disengages with the connector body, thereby allowing relative movement between the connector and at least one of the first and second component portions.