Greenhouse Rod and Gutter Profile Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for attaching gutter profiles and rods in greenhouses lack simplicity and robustness, often requiring complex fittings and prone to loosening over time.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing extruded aluminum gutter profiles and rods with aluminum locking elements featuring a U-shaped fixation portion and protruding portion, allowing for secure longitudinal locking and easy assembly, with through-holes maintaining consistent rod-to-rod distance and preventing loosening through sliding grooves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional receiving space with a flange stop is used to attach the rod to the gutter profile, then the rod can be positioned, but the connection is prone to loosening and lacks robustness
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is divided into distinct functional parts: a fixation portion that engages with grooves in the rod, and a protruding portion that extends through holes in the gutter profile. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function independently, creating a reliable connection without complex integrated structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements are pre-assembled onto the rods at the factory before the rods are shipped to the greenhouse site. This preliminary action ensures proper positioning and engagement of the locking elements with the rod grooves, eliminating the need for complex field assembly and ensuring robust connections from installation day one.
2Reliability
If the locking element is rigidly fixed to the rod, then longitudinal locking is achieved, but the assembly becomes difficult to assemble and may loosen due to thermal expansion
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the locking element and the rod is made dynamic rather than rigid. The fixation portion slides within the grooves of the rod, allowing relative movement between the locking element and the rod. This dynamic connection maintains longitudinal locking while accommodating thermal expansion and contraction, and simplifies assembly by allowing the locking element to be slid into place.
3Stability of the object's composition
If through-holes are added to maintain rod-to-rod distance, then structural consistency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protruding portion of the locking element serves multiple functions: it provides longitudinal locking by engaging with the gutter profile, maintains consistent rod-to-rod spacing by extending through predefined holes, and acts as a positioning element during assembly. This multi-functionality achieves structural consistency without adding separate components or increasing overall device complexity.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A system for attaching a gutter profile (2) and a rod (4) of a greenhouse to each other comprises a gutter profile (2) which is made of extruded aluminium and is provided with a through-hole (9) in a wall thereof, a rod (4) which is made of extruded aluminium and which is mountable to the gutter profile (2) such that in a mounted condition the rod (4) is supported by the gutter profile (2) and extends transversely with respect to the gutter profile (2), and a rigid locking element (5) for interlocking the rod (4) and the gutter profile (2) in longitudinal direction of the gutter profile (2). The locking element (5) comprises a protruding portion (6) which fits in the through-hole (9) and a fixation portion (7) which is attachable to an end portion of the rod (4). In the mounted condition the protruding portion (6) extends through the through-hole (9).