Hidden Spring Panel Fixing for Secure Furniture Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing furniture panel attachment methods using frames with rods or tubes are insecure, as panels can be easily pressed out, and additional securing elements detract from the aesthetic appearance.
Innovation Solution
A panel attachment system where fastening elements are integrated into recesses within the panel, hidden from view, providing secure anchoring without visible fastening elements, using a combination of recesses and spring elements for enhanced holding power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If panels are inserted into frame structures, then the furniture structure is simple and easy to assemble, but the panel attachment is insecure and panels can be easily pressed out
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening element is nested within a recess in the panel, with only a small contact portion extending outward to engage the frame. This nesting approach provides secure attachment while maintaining a clean appearance and simple assembly process.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening element is divided into distinct functional segments: a recessed anchoring portion embedded in the panel, a spring element providing elastic force, and a contact portion engaging the frame. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally.
2Reliability
If additional securing elements like clamps or holding elements are used, then panel attachment security is improved, but the aesthetic appearance of the furniture is impaired
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening element is nested within a recess in the panel, with only a small contact portion extending outward to engage the frame. This nesting approach provides secure attachment while maintaining a clean appearance and simple assembly process.
Solution Approach 2:
The visible portion of the fastening element is extracted to a minimum, with only the essential contact portion extending from the recess. This minimizes the visual impact while maintaining attachment security.
3Shape
If fastening elements are arranged in recesses extending from end faces, then aesthetic appearance is improved by hiding fastening elements, but the complexity of the panel structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening element is divided into distinct functional segments: a recessed anchoring portion embedded in the panel, a spring element providing elastic force, and a contact portion engaging the frame. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening element combines multiple functions in a single integrated component: structural anchoring through the recess, elastic restoring force through the spring element, and mechanical engagement with the frame through the contact portion. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components.
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
Ensures secure panel attachment with improved aesthetic appeal by providing hidden fastening, increased holding power, and stability against unintentional detachment, while maintaining a sleek design.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element can be compressed when a force is applied in the longitudinal direction of the spring, for example when the fastening element is in contact with the frame of the piece of furniture, and in the inserted condition of the panel, exerts a spring biasing force on the frame such that the panel is held securely to the item of furniture
Implementation Method 2
the at least one fastening element has a contact element for surface contact with the piece of furniture enables improved mounting of the panel on the piece of furniture
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
The device (4) has a plate (8) comprising an inner side (10) and an outer side (11). A front side (12) of the plate connects the inner and outer sides, and a recess (13) i.e. blind borehole, extends from the front side to the plate. A fastening element (14) is arranged in an inner side, and comprises a spring element i.e. spiral spring. The fastening element is arranged at an outer side of the recess in an unloaded condition of the spring element, where a longitudinal axis of the recess is arranged at distance parallel to a plate-middle-plane arranged between the inner and outer sides. An independent claim is also included for a furniture piece comprising a plate fastening device.