Mechanical Lock Structure for Seamless Prefab Component Connection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing connection structures for prefabricated building components require an operation space for margin adjustment, which cannot meet the requirement for seamless connection, leading to cumbersome and complex operation steps and low construction efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A mechanical lock for building component connection comprising a plug element and a lock body part, where the plug pin structure is movably installed in the plug shell and the bracing structure includes a tight abutting part that stops the plug pin structure from retreating, allowing for firm and reliable connection without the need for an operation space.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If an existing connection structure with movable insertion rod and screw joint is used to allow margin adjustment, then the adaptability of the connection is improved, but the operation space requirement increases and seamless connection cannot be achieved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemargin adjustment capabilityVSAvoidoperation space requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connection structure is divided into two separate components: the plug element with plug pin structure and the lock body part with bracing structure. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the plug pin can be inserted without requiring operation space for adjustment, while the bracing structure provides the necessary mechanical support and positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The plug pin structure is pre-configured with a stop part that will engage with the bracing structure. The bracing structure is pre-installed in the lock body part with the tight abutting part positioned to receive the stop part. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for post-insertion adjustment, enabling seamless connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If an existing connection structure with multiple moving parts is used to allow margin adjustment, then the adaptability is improved, but the operation steps become cumbersome and complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemargin adjustment capabilityVSAvoidoperation steps complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustment function is extracted from the insertion process itself. Instead of requiring adjustment movements during insertion, the plug pin structure is designed with a stop part that automatically engages with the pre-positioned bracing structure, separating the insertion action from the adjustment action.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The plug pin structure and bracing structure are designed to self-align and self-lock. The stop part of the plug pin automatically engages with the tight abutting part of the bracing structure upon insertion, eliminating the need for manual adjustment operations or complex multi-step procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If an existing connection structure is used that requires operation space for margin adjustment, then the adaptability is improved, but the construction efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemargin adjustment capabilityVSAvoidconstruction efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the connection into a plug element and lock body part with distinct functions, the insertion operation becomes a simple single-action process. The plug pin structure with stop part engages with the bracing structure in one motion, eliminating the multiple adjustment steps required by traditional structures, thereby improving construction efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The bracing structure is pre-positioned in the lock body part with the tight abutting part ready to receive the stop part. This preliminary positioning ensures that when the plug pin is inserted, the engagement occurs automatically without requiring additional adjustment operations, significantly reducing assembly time and improving productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS12209404B2Mechanical lock for building component connection
Publication Date: 2025.01.28 GUANGZHOU METRO DESIGN & RES INST CO LTD
  • US12209404B2 patent drawing
  • US12209404B2 patent drawing
  • US12209404B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A mechanical lock for building component connection includes a plug element (1) and a lock bod part (2). The plug element (1) includes a plug shell (10), a plug pin structure (11), and a plug transmission structure. The plug pin structure (11) is movably installed in the plug shell (10). The plug transmission structure is in transmission connection with the plug pin structure (11). An end of the plug pin structure (11) is provided with a stop part (110). The lock bod part (2) includes a lock body shell (20), a bracing structure (21), and a lock body transmission structure. An insertion channel (23) matched with the plug pin structure (11) is formed in the lock body shell (20). The lock body transmission structure is in transmission connection with the bracing structure (21).