Modular Block Locking Plate Prevents Coupling Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular building blocks with interlocking reinforcement rods lack a mechanism to prevent rotation of couplings, leading to potential unthreading and diminished reinforcement capacity.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a locking plate that engages the coupling within a recess, preventing rotation by sitting on a shoulder with side walls, and using waterproof grease in a sleeve to minimize corrosion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If couplings are used to connect vertically aligned reinforcement rods, then the reinforcement rods can be connected, but the couplings may rotate and come unthreaded, diminishing reinforcement capacity
Solution Approach 1:
A locking plate is introduced as an intermediary component between the coupling and the building block. The locking plate engages with the coupling through a locking mechanism (such as a protrusion fitting into a recess) and prevents rotation by sitting on a shoulder with side walls that form a polygonal recess. This mediator component solves the rotation problem without fundamentally changing the coupling design.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution moves from a one-dimensional threaded connection problem to a two-dimensional constraint system. The locking plate creates a polygonal recess with side walls that engage the coupling in a rotational dimension, adding a second dimension of constraint (rotational prevention) to the original linear threaded connection.
2Strength
If reinforcement rods are threadedly connected to couplings, then the reinforcement capacity is provided, but rotation may cause unthreading and loss of reinforcement capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The locking plate serves as a mediator that protects the threaded connection from rotational failure. It engages the coupling and uses the shoulder and side walls to create a mechanical barrier against rotation, thereby protecting the integrity of the threaded connection and maintaining reinforcement capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking plate is installed in advance to prevent rotation before it can occur. By engaging the coupling and constraining it within the polygonal recess formed by the shoulder and side walls, the locking plate applies preliminary anti-action against the potential harmful rotation that would compromise the threaded connection.
3Device complexity
If couplings are provided without rotation prevention, then the device is simpler, but the reinforcement rods may come unthreaded
Solution Approach 1:
The locking plate is a relatively simple intermediary component that can be easily manufactured and installed. It adds minimal complexity to the overall system while significantly improving assembly reliability by preventing rotation and ensuring the threaded connection remains secure.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular building block has a first load-bearing surface with a key. There is a recess in the key. The recess has a shoulder disposed therein and side walls extending from the shoulder to a mouth thereof. A reinforcement rod extends into the recess and a coupling for connecting vertically aligned reinforcement rods is disposed in the recess. The reinforcement rod threadedly engages the coupling. A locking plate engages the coupling to prevent the coupling from rotating relative to the locking plate. The locking plate sits on the shoulder and rotation of the locking plate within the recess is prevented by the side walls of the recess.