Hybrid Joint Assembly With Cam Locking and Service Conduits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing construction systems face challenges such as requiring numerous parts and special tools for assembly, being non-scalable, relying on threaded connections that can damage parts, having fixed dimensions limiting design flexibility, and lacking the ability to integrate services like water, power, or data transmission.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid joint assembly using mass-produced standard parts for easy assembly and disassembly, enabling mass-customization, and providing conduit paths for service transmission, with a modular and scalable design that includes cylinder-shaped joints and rotational connection modules for versatile plane connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If threaded connections are used for joining structure elements, then connection strength is improved, but the risk of cross-threading increases which can damage parts and undermine joint integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces threaded mechanical connections with a cam-based locking mechanism. The cam lock engages with a cam groove to secure structure elements, eliminating threads entirely. This substitution removes the risk of cross-threading while maintaining connection strength through the cam's geometric locking action.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a cam lock as an intermediary component between structure elements. Instead of direct threaded engagement, the cam lock mediates the connection by engaging with cam grooves, providing a reliable locking mechanism that prevents cross-threading damage while ensuring secure joints.
2Ease of manufacture
If fixed dimension beams and struts are used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but design flexibility and customization capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connection system into modular components: standard-dimension beams/struts combined with interchangeable connection modules. The connection modules come in various configurations (single-plane, multi-plane, rotational, fixed-angle) that can be mixed and matched with standard beams, enabling custom designs while keeping manufacturing simple through standardized production of individual modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates universal connection modules that can be used across different beam configurations and structural applications. A single standard beam type can work with multiple connection module variants, allowing the same manufactured component to serve multiple design purposes and enabling extensive customization without requiring custom-manufactured beams.
3Reliability
If multiple parts and special tools are used for assembly, then connection reliability is improved, but assembly complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cam lock mechanism is designed to be self-aligning and self-locking. When the cam lock is inserted and the cam groove is engaged, the geometry automatically guides proper alignment and secures the connection without requiring alignment tools or complex assembly procedures. The system serves itself through its geometric design.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam lock acts as an intermediary that simplifies assembly by providing a single-component solution that integrates alignment, engagement, and locking functions. Instead of requiring multiple parts and special tools, the cam lock mediator handles all assembly requirements through its unified geometric design.
4Ease of operation
If standard threaded fasteners are used, then ease of assembly is improved, but the risk of cross-threading and part damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the threaded fastener system with a cam-based geometric locking system. The cam lock engages with a cam groove through a simple insertion and rotation motion, eliminating threads and the associated cross-threading risk while maintaining ease of assembly through intuitive geometric engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam lock serves as an intermediary component that provides a safe connection method between structure elements. It mediates the joining process by using geometric cam engagement instead of threaded fasteners, thereby eliminating the harmful cross-threading effect while keeping assembly simple and tool-free.
Data Source
AI summary
Hybrid joint assembly comprising at least one cylinder-shaped joint assembly comprising an elongated or disc-shaped main body provided with exterior connection surfaces for attachment of structure elements extending in a horizontal plane via a connection interface, and at longitudinal ends thereof adapted for connection to structure elements extending in a vertical plane via a connection disc or structure elements extending in a parallel vertical plane via a rotational connection module and at least one connection module.