Connector for framing material
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for framing material are difficult to assemble, time-consuming, and labor-intensive, with high material and processing costs due to the lack of interlocking effect between components, which hinders efficient on-site construction operations.
Innovation Solution
A connector system comprising a limiting member with a plate and stopping plates forming a containing space, a connecting member with a through hole, and a screw with a hexagon portion that allows synchronous rotation, enabling easy engagement and locking with U-shaped frames, thereby simplifying assembly and enhancing bonding strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a solid block with screw hole and groove is used in prior art connectors, then the connector can be locked with screw and engage with U-shaped frame, but the assembly operation becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into multiple functional components: a connecting plate for mounting, a rotating block for engagement, and a spring for providing rotational force. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, making the overall assembly process more manageable and less complex than the monolithic solid block design.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating block is designed to rotate within the U-shaped frame under spring force, transitioning from a static insertion operation to a dynamic rotational locking mechanism. This dynamic action allows the groove to engage with the hook more easily and reliably, reducing assembly difficulty while maintaining secure locking.
2Ease of manufacture
If the connecting plate is used to mount the solid block in prior art, then the connector can be assembled, but the connecting plate blocks the line of sight making proper engagement difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating block is extracted as a separate component that can be inserted through the connecting plate rather than being integrated into it. This separation allows the operator to view through or around the connecting plate while inserting and rotating the block, eliminating the line-of-sight blocking problem while maintaining the mounting function.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating block acts as an intermediary element that passes through the connecting plate to achieve engagement with the U-shaped frame. This intermediary component allows the mounting function of the connecting plate and the engagement function of the block to occur simultaneously without interfering with each other's visibility or operation.
3Reliability
If the solid block has certain volume to accommodate screw hole, then the connector can be locked, but processing and material costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is segmented between the rotating block with groove and the separate screw-fastening connecting plate. This allows the block to be smaller and simpler in volume, reducing material usage and processing complexity, while the plate provides the mounting surface and screw engagement area that would otherwise require the block to be larger.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting plate serves multiple functions: it provides the mounting surface for the connector, accommodates the screw hole for fastening, and allows passage of the rotating block. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for the solid block to have large volume to accommodate all functions, thereby reducing material and processing costs.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for framing material comprises: a limiting member, a connecting member and a first screw. The hexagon portion of the first screw is received between the first stopping plate and the second stopping plate of the limiting member. The through hole of the connecting member is passed by the first screw to form a pre-lock assembly of the limiting member and the connecting member. The first stopping plate and the second stopping plate parallel to the accepting slot direction to place the limiting member in the U-shaped frame, and then the connecting member is rotated and to make a cross with the U-shaped frame, such that the first screw drives the limiting member to rotate to perpendicular to the U-shaped frame.