Hinged Fence Post Connector for Wood Frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fence-frame-to-post connections are complex and difficult to install, lacking a simple and efficient solution for aligning and securing wood fence members to metal posts.
Innovation Solution
A connector system featuring a hinged design with a key tab and key slot combination, separate fasteners for joining the connector members and attaching to the fence frame, and self-aligning tabs that ease installation by allowing one-handed snapping onto a cylindrical metal post.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional fence-frame-to-post connections are used, then the connection can be made, but the installation process is complex and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two separate members: a post connector member that attaches to the metal post, and a frame connector member that attaches to the wood fence frame. These members are joined by a hinge, allowing independent installation on each component before final assembly, thereby simplifying the overall installation process while maintaining connection strength
Solution Approach 2:
A hinge connection is introduced between the two connector members, enabling dynamic adjustment and alignment during installation. The hinge allows the connector to adapt to slight misalignments between the post and frame, making installation easier while ensuring a secure fit
2Ease of operation
If separate fasteners are used to join connector members and attach to fence frame, then the connection can be made separately, but the number of fasteners increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is segmented into two independent sets: fasteners for joining the connector members together, and separate fasteners for attaching the connector assembly to the fence frame. This allows the connector members to be pre-assembled and tested before final installation, improving ease of operation despite using multiple fastener types
3Manufacturing precision
If tabs are added to shield fastener ends and align connector members, then alignment is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Tabs are incorporated into the connector members that automatically perform dual functions: shielding the ends of fasteners from exposure and providing alignment features that guide proper positioning during installation. These tabs are formed as integral parts of the connector members during manufacturing, so they add functional value without significantly increasing manufacturing complexity
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
Facilitates easy and secure installation of wood fence frames to metal posts with enhanced support and alignment, reducing installation complexity and time while ensuring a robust connection.
Implementation Method 1
One of the fasteners that joins the two members of the connector can be a hinge that is preferably made by a key tab and key slot combination in which the key pivots in the keyhole
Implementation Method 2
A preferred embodiment of the present invention improves on the prior art by providing a connector that has a hinged connection between its halves, further easing installation
Implementation Method 3
These and other object of the invention are explained and illustrated below. Still a further object of the present invention is to provide a fence-frame-to-post connector that eases installation on the post by snapping onto the post
Data Source
AI summary
A fence-frame-to-post connector comprises two separate members joined by one or more fasteners separate from the members. One member is attached to the fence frame with additional fasteners separate from those used to join the two members and also separate from the connector. One of the fasteners that joins the two members of the connector can be a hinge that is preferably made by a key tab and key slot combination in which the key pivots in the keyhole.