Adjustment System for Metal Structure Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanisms for connecting metal structures lack flexibility and robustness, requiring precise alignment and offering limited adjustment possibilities, which restricts their application in dynamic environments like solar panel farms and wind microgeneration towers.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising two plates with radial and circular slits and screw pins that allow for adjustments in X, Y, and Z axes, enabling rotation and translation, with nuts and rings for secure tightening, providing greater freedom and simplicity in connecting metal structures without the need for precise alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional connection mechanisms are used for metal structures, then the connection is simple and robust, but the adjustment flexibility is limited and precise alignment is required
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism is segmented into two separate plates (first plate and second plate) that can be independently positioned and adjusted. Each plate can be adjusted along X, Y, and Z axes independently, allowing flexible positioning without requiring the entire connection mechanism to be complex and precisely aligned as a single unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism incorporates adjustable elements that allow dynamic repositioning of the plates relative to each other. The first plate can be positioned at different locations along the longitudinal axis of the tubular element, and both plates can be rotated independently, providing dynamic adaptability rather than fixed positioning.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional post positioning mechanisms are used, then the structure is simple, but the degree of freedom for adjustment is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides adjustable positioning along three axes (X, Y, Z), enables independent rotation of each plate, and allows the first plate to be positioned at various locations along the longitudinal axis. This multi-functionality achieves high degree of freedom while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through the use of standard mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism adds dimensional flexibility by allowing adjustment along three spatial axes (X, Y, Z) and independent rotation, transforming a simple single-axis or fixed connection into a multi-dimensional adjustable system. This enables the connection to adapt to various orientations and positions without complicating the basic mechanical structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable connection mechanisms are implemented, then flexibility increases, but the alignment precision requirements become more stringent
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism allows dynamic adjustment of the first plate's position along the longitudinal axis and independent rotation of both plates, enabling the system to adapt to misalignments rather than requiring precise pre-alignment. The adjustable nature compensates for manufacturing tolerances and installation variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism enables changes in multiple parameters including the position of the first plate along the longitudinal axis, the relative orientation of both plates, and their rotational angles. These parameter changes allow the system to accommodate varying alignment conditions without requiring high manufacturing precision.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an adjustment system for connections between metal structures which consists of two plates. It is essentially characterised in that it comprises: a plate (1) provided with four radial slits (4) where one part of the structure to be connected can be joined; a second plate provided with four circular slits (5) where another part of the structure to be connected can be joined; joining screw pins (3) which pass through the radial slits in plate (1) and through the circular slits in plate (2) in order to join the two parts by means of the corresponding nuts (6) which tighten the said plates together, it being possible to adjust the position of the two plates (1 and 2) with respect to their movement on axes X, Y and Z.