Junction Device for Support Frame Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional scaffolds have complex assembly processes due to numerous component variations and lack flexibility, while multidirectional scaffolds, though improved, still face issues with secure locking and rapid assembly/disassembly, especially in complex facade constructions and tensile structures.
Innovation Solution
A junction device with a case and fixing plate configuration that allows for stable engagement and quick assembly of beams, featuring a housing compartment with through accesses and locking elements to prevent unwanted decoupling, enabling efficient assembly and disassembly of support frames.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional scaffolds use numerous component variations and complex assembly processes, then they can provide structural support, but the assembly process becomes complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The junction device uses a universal coupling mechanism with a standardized case structure that can accommodate different beam configurations and orientations. The case incorporates multiple through-accesses and locking elements that work with various beam types, allowing one junction device design to serve multiple functions in different structural configurations, thereby reducing the number of unique components needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The junction device is divided into modular components: a standardized case structure, removable locking elements, and interchangeable fixing plates. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently and assembled together, simplifying the overall assembly process while maintaining structural integrity. The modular design enables easy replacement of individual components without affecting the entire structure.
2Productivity
If multidirectional scaffolds reduce the number of components, then assembly becomes faster, but secure locking and stability during assembly/disassembly become challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The case structure incorporates pre-positioned locking elements and guiding features that are prepared in advance during manufacturing. The through-accesses are pre-configured with locking mechanisms that automatically engage when beams are inserted, eliminating the need for complex manual locking operations during assembly and ensuring secure connection from the outset.
Solution Approach 2:
The junction device introduces an intermediary case structure between the beams and the overall scaffold system. This case acts as a mediator that simplifies the connection process by providing a standardized interface, while the locking elements within the case ensure reliable mechanical connection. The intermediary structure handles the complexity of secure locking internally, presenting a simple external interface for rapid assembly.
3Reliability
If junction devices use complex locking mechanisms to prevent unwanted decoupling, then stability is improved, but assembly and disassembly times increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through the insertion motion itself. As the beam is inserted through the through-access, the geometry of the locking elements and the case structure causes them to automatically engage with the beam, eliminating the need for separate locking operations. The insertion action simultaneously accomplishes both positioning and locking, reducing assembly time while maintaining stability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring complex multi-step locking procedures, the design inverts the approach by using the insertion motion itself to trigger the locking mechanism. The locking elements are positioned to engage automatically as the beam is inserted, rather than requiring separate locking actions. This inversion of the traditional locking sequence significantly reduces assembly time while ensuring reliable connection.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a junction device (1) for the realization of support frames. The junction device comprises a case (2) developing along a longitudinal axis (A) and having at least a side wall (4) delimiting a housing compartment (3), said side wall defining a longitudinal passage opening (5) and having a through access (6) configured to allow, from outside the case (2), the insertion of an inserting portion (7) of a beam (8) into the housing compartment (3). The junction device further comprises a fixing plate (9) arranged into the housing compartment, at the through access (6), and stably engaged to the side wall; the fixing plate comprises a seat (10) configured to receive in engagement a locking element (11) configured to allow a stable engagement between said junction device and the inserting portion of the beam. The present invention relates to a process for the realization of a junction device, as well as a support frame and a process for the realization thereof.