Locking Panel Assembly with Flexing Groove for Lower Assembly Force
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing panel assembly technologies require significant force and impact during assembly, making them difficult to assemble efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical locking device with a flexing groove extending from the transition between the locking strip and the panel edge at an angle, allowing the locking strip to flex during assembly, thereby reducing the force required and enhancing flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical locking device is used to lock panels together, then the panels can be securely locked in vertical and horizontal directions, but significant force and impact are required during assembly making it difficult to assemble efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The locking strip is designed with a flexing groove that allows it to dynamically change shape during assembly. The groove extends from the transition between the locking strip and panel edge at an angle, enabling the locking strip to flex and adapt during insertion, reducing the force needed while maintaining secure locking engagement
Solution Approach 2:
The flexing groove changes the physical parameters of the locking strip by creating a controlled flexibility zone. This groove modifies the rigidity and deformation characteristics of the locking strip, allowing it to bend and flex during assembly to reduce impact forces while still providing reliable locking when engaged
2Strength
If a rigid locking strip is used to ensure strong locking, then locking strength is maintained, but the assembly process requires significant force and impact
Solution Approach 1:
The locking strip transitions from a purely rigid structure to a dynamic structure with controlled flexibility. The flexing groove allows the locking strip to bend and adapt during assembly, reducing the force required while maintaining locking strength through the engagement of the locking element with the locking groove
Solution Approach 2:
The flexing groove creates a flexible zone within the locking strip structure. This controlled flexibility allows the locking strip to deform during assembly to reduce impact forces, while the overall structure maintains sufficient rigidity to provide strong locking engagement when properly positioned
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
Facilitates easier and more efficient assembly of panels by reducing the force needed, while maintaining sufficient locking strength.
Implementation Method 1
the locking strip is configured to flex by varying a shape of the flexing groove during the assembly, thereby increasing a flexibility of the locking strip during the assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A set of panels includes first and second panels and a mechanical locking device for assembly by vertical relative displacement of the panels. A locking strip extends from a first edge of the first panel in a direction parallel to first and second panel surfaces of the first panel. The locking strip includes a locking strip edge, and first and second locking strip surfaces respectively extending in directions substantially corresponding to those of the first and second panel surfaces. A locking element of the locking strip cooperates with a locking groove at the second edge of the second panel for locking in a direction parallel to the first panel surface. Opposite edges respectively include cooperating tongue and tongue groove for vertical locking. A flexing groove extends from a first locking strip surface/first edge transition and into the first panel at an angle α from the first panel surface.