Interlocking Board Coupling Structure for Screw-Free Cabinet Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing board connection structures in furniture assembly are inefficient due to the need for screws, requiring time-consuming installation and disassembly, with low structural reliability and poor waterproof performance, especially in cabinet construction.
Innovation Solution
A screw-free board coupling structure featuring strip-shaped ribs and grooves on adjacent boards, with longitudinally and transversely extending arms that increase contact area and stability, forming various shapes such as cross, T, or L configurations to enhance reliability and waterproofing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If screws and connectors are used to connect boards, then the connection is secure, but the installation process becomes time-consuming and laborious
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes screws and connectors from the board connection system, extracting the fastening function into an integrated groove-rib structure that is built into the boards themselves, eliminating the need for separate fastening components
Solution Approach 2:
The connection and fastening functions are merged into a single integrated structure where the groove and rib formations themselves provide both the mechanical connection and the fastening mechanism, eliminating the need for separate screws and connectors
2Reliability
If screws are used to fix boards, then the structure is stable, but the disassembly process becomes inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from a static screw-fixed state to a dynamic insertion-extraction mechanism, allowing the boards to be easily assembled by sliding and disassembled by pulling apart, providing operational flexibility while maintaining structural integrity
3Manufacturing precision
If mounting holes are reserved on boards for screw installation, then precise assembly is possible, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting hole preparation and connection functions are merged into a single groove formation process, where the groove itself serves as both the positioning feature and the connection interface, eliminating the need for separate hole drilling and connector installation steps
4Productivity
If simple plug-in structures are used for board connection, then assembly efficiency is improved, but the structural reliability and stability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The connection interface is extended from a simple linear slot to a three-dimensional groove structure with depth and width variations, creating multiple contact surfaces and engagement points that enhance mechanical interlocking while maintaining easy insertion and extraction
Data Source
AI summary
A board coupling structure with a first board and a second board. The first board and the second board are respectively formed with strip-shaped ribs and strip-shaped grooves that can be interlocked with each other. The strip-shaped rib can comprise at least one longitudinally extending arm and one or more transversely extending arms. In particular, the one or more spaced apart transversely extending arms can increase the contact surface of the strip-shaped rib and the strip-shaped groove. Moreover, the connected boards do not need connectors.