Locking Sleeve Connector Assembly for Fast Reusable Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods of connecting structural members, such as welding, are time-consuming, require skilled labor, and result in components that are not easily reusable, while existing connectors are cumbersome and prone to errors and loss of parts.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly comprising a core element and an engagement sleeve with slideable and lockable configurations, allowing a single user to securely connect and disconnect structural members without additional tools or bonding materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If welding is used to connect structural members, then connection strength and rigidity are improved, but assembly time and disassembly complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into separate components: a core element and an engagement sleeve. The core element inserts into the engagement sleeve, which then engages with the structural member's cavity. This segmentation allows for quick insertion and removal without welding, achieving both strong connection and rapid assembly/disassembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement sleeve acts as an intermediary component between the core element and the structural member. It provides a reusable interface that secures the core element while engaging with the cavity, eliminating the need for welding and enabling quick connection and disconnection.
2Reliability
If traditional connectors with multiple parts are used, then connection security is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The core element and engagement sleeve are combined into a single integrated connector assembly. The core element's leading end engages with the engagement sleeve's passage, creating a unified component that reduces the number of separate parts needed while maintaining secure connection through the engagement sleeve's interaction with the cavity.
3Reliability
If fixing members like screws or bolts are used, then connection security is improved, but ease of operation and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Traditional fixing members such as screws, bolts, or rivets are completely removed from the connector design. Instead, the core element and engagement sleeve create a secure connection through their geometric interaction and engagement with the cavity, eliminating the need for additional fastening components and enabling rapid assembly and disassembly.
4Strength
If welding is used to connect structural members, then connection strength is improved, but reusability and material loss worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is designed to be fully reusable and disassemblable. The core element and engagement sleeve can be removed from the structural member without causing damage, allowing the connector components to be recovered and reused. This eliminates material loss associated with welding preparation and post-disassembly machining.
Data Source
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AI summary
A connector assembly (10, 12, 14) for engagement with a first member (100). The connector assembly (10) comprises a core element (300) and an engagement sleeve (400). The first member (100) defines a cavity (102) with a contact surface (104), and an opening (106) to the cavity (102) which the engagement sleeve is configured to fit within. The engagement sleeve has an opening (406) and passage (402) configured to receive at least part of the core element (300). The core element (300) and engagement sleeve (400) are configured such that when the connector assembly (10) is in a first configuration, the engagement sleeve (400) is slideable relative to the cavity (102) contact surface (104) of the first structural member. The core element (300) and engagement sleeve (400) are also configured such that when the connector assembly (10) is in a second configuration, the engagement sleeve (400) is locked relative to the first structural member (100).