Connector for connecting a component to a rectangular structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for connecting side rails, headboards, or footboards to bed frames face challenges in achieving secure clamping in both horizontal and vertical directions while also being easily releasable without significant force expenditure, often relying on complex wedge actions that complicate the release process.
Innovation Solution
The connector employs a guide system with slotted guide systems and bearing surfaces to define the movement and clamping forces of receiving elements, allowing for easy clamping and release without wedge action, and optionally includes a clamping lever or screw mechanism for tool-assisted operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If wedge action is used to secure the connector to the rectangular tube, then clamping force and connection strength are improved, but release requires great force expenditure and becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The connector uses a dynamic clamping mechanism where the clamping lever can be easily moved between clamped and released states. The lever system provides mechanical advantage for clamping while allowing easy release by simply moving the lever, eliminating the need to overcome strong wedge forces for release.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional wedge action mechanical system with a lever-based clamping system. Instead of relying on wedge geometry that creates strong friction and requires great force to release, the lever system uses rotational mechanics to provide clamping force while maintaining easy controllability and releasability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If trapezoidal hooks and notches are used to prevent horizontal movement, then connection stability is improved, but the complex shape increases manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The connector uses uniform rectangular or cylindrical receiving elements instead of complex trapezoidal shapes. This homogenization of geometry simplifies manufacturing while maintaining connection stability through the lever-based clamping mechanism that provides secure holding without requiring asymmetric wedge geometries.
3Reliability
If a clamping lever with locking bar is used to prevent inadvertent release, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking bar is spring-loaded to automatically engage and lock the clamping lever in the clamped position. The system is self-servicing as the spring automatically returns the locking bar to the locked position after clamping, providing reliable connection without requiring additional complex control mechanisms or manual intervention to maintain the locked state.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector to connect a first part to a rectangular tube or rectangular beam includes first and second receiving elements that form a receptacle for the rectangular tube or rectangular beam. The first and second receiving elements are moveable relative to one another between a first position in which the rectangular tube or rectangular beam is clampable between the first and second receiving elements in the receptacle and a second position in which the rectangular tube or rectangular beam can be introduced into or released from the receptacle. The connector further includes a guide predefining a direction during movement of the first and second receiving elements from the first position into the second position and vice versa.