Locking Element Anchoring for Panel Groove Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking elements for quadrangular panels require high application force and are prone to slipping during installation, making it difficult to achieve proper latching engagement, especially when the panels are laid vertically relative to each other.
Innovation Solution
The locking element features anchoring means that allow it to be captively anchored in the locking groove, with a mechanical prestressing effect to prevent slipping, and an oversize insertion portion that deforms to create a force-locking connection, compensating for dimensional inaccuracies and providing a secure anchoring force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the locking element is inserted into the locking groove without anchoring means, then the insertion procedure is simple, but the locking element slips during handling and installation
Solution Approach 1:
The anchoring means (protrusions on the insertion portion) are designed to automatically engage with corresponding recesses in the locking groove during insertion. This preliminary anchoring action prevents slipping during subsequent handling and installation operations, resolving the contradiction between simple insertion and reliable positioning.
2Reliability
If high application force is used to latch the locking element, then proper latching engagement is achieved, but the installation process becomes difficult and requires excessive force
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is segmented into distinct functional portions: the insertion portion with anchoring means for secure positioning, and the latching tongue for engagement. This segmentation allows the anchoring means to prevent slipping independently, reducing the force required for latching engagement and making installation easier.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchoring means perform the preliminary action of securing the locking element in the groove before latching occurs. By pre-preventing slip, the system reduces the force needed during the latching operation, resolving the contradiction between reliable engagement and ease of installation.
3Manufacturing precision
If the insertion portion is made with precise dimensions, then dimensional accuracy is maintained, but compensation for manufacturing tolerances is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The anchoring means utilize elastic deformation of the insertion portion material. This parameter change allows the insertion portion to deform elastically during insertion, compensating for dimensional inaccuracies and manufacturing tolerances while maintaining secure anchoring. The elastic properties enable adaptability without sacrificing precision.
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
The solution enables easy and secure installation of panels with reduced application force, preventing slipping and ensuring a reliable force-locking connection between the panels, even with slight movements.
Implementation Method 1
the insertion portion, at least at a location of its cross-section, can have an oversize in relation to the width of the locking groove provided for insertion of the locking element. In that way the insertion portion in the insertion position can be deformed at that location of its cross-section, with elastic or plastic-elastic deformation of the locking element, and can press against the inner side surfaces of the groove
Implementation Method 2
the insertion portion in the insertion position can be deformed at that location of its cross-section, with elastic or plastic-elastic deformation of the locking element
Implementation Method 3
can press against the inner side surfaces of the groove, whereby material delimiting the locking groove can be elastically and/or plastically-elastically deformed. As a consequence, a corresponding anchoring force can be achieved for anchoring the locking element in the insertion position
Data Source
AI summary
The apparatus mounts a locking element into a groove in an edge of a panel. An advance device feeds a stream of locking elements to a pressing device which mounts the locking elements into the groove on the edge of the panel. The locking elements are fed from a line of locking elements stored on a reel. A separating device cuts the line of locking elements into individual locking elements. The separating device is positioned either upstream of the advancing device or immediately upstream of the pressing device. When the separating device is immediately upstream of the pressing device, a spring is used to flex the stream during the short stoppage when the separating device separates individual locking elements from the line of locking elements.