Modular Connector System for Reversible Structural Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing construction methods for buildings and homes require complex and labor-intensive processes for joining structural elements, lacking efficient and reversible solutions for modular and prefabricated systems.
Innovation Solution
A connector system comprising identical or compatible plates with troughs and a plug mechanism, along with a locking key, allows for simple, reversible, and modular connection of structural elements, such as wooden beams and panels, with minimal tool usage, suitable for various orientations and materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional construction methods are used to join structural elements, then the connection strength is sufficient, but the labor intensity and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into separate functional components: plates for attachment to structural elements, a plug for insertion through the troughs, and a key for locking. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, simplifying the overall joining process while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector acts as an intermediary element between structural elements, providing a standardized interface that simplifies the joining process. The plates, plug, and key work together as a mediating system that reduces the complexity of direct structural element connection.
2Productivity
If complex joining processes are used, then the connection reliability is improved, but the construction time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system is designed to be self-assembling through a simple insertion sequence: plates are positioned, the plug is inserted through the troughs, and the key locks everything in place. This self-service mechanism achieves reliable connections without requiring complex procedures or specialized tools, thereby increasing construction speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The plates are pre-configured with troughs and the plug is pre-formed to fit these troughs, allowing for rapid assembly. The preliminary preparation of these components enables quick on-site installation while maintaining reliable connections, as the complex geometry is already established during manufacturing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If permanent fixed connections are used, then the structural stability is maximized, but the reversibility and adaptability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connector provides a dynamic connection system that can transition between assembled and disassembled states. The key can be inserted to lock the connection permanently for structural stability, or removed to allow reversible disassembly for adaptability. This dynamic capability satisfies both requirements for stability and reversibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection allows for the temporary discarding of the key to enable disassembly and reconfiguration, then recovering the key to restore the stable connection. This mechanism supports reversible connections when needed while maintaining the ability to create stable fixed connections when required.
4Ease of operation
If multiple tools are required for joining, then the connection precision is improved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed to be assembled using minimal tools, primarily hand tools for inserting the plug and key. The self-service design incorporates features like tapered plug ends and corresponding troughs that guide alignment, achieving connection precision without requiring multiple specialized tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector serves as an intermediary that simplifies the joining process by consolidating alignment and locking functions into a single component system. This mediator approach reduces the number of separate tools needed while maintaining precision through the integrated design of plates, plug, and key.
Data Source
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AI summary
A construction system based on a common connector that is conceived to join a large variety of structural elements. The connector has two equal plates with an open trough that are designed to be affixed on wall sections or similar structural elements and plugs that enter in the troughs and are designed to be affixed on a horizontal element such as a sill, a joist or a beam. The connector can be locked by a wedge key that is configured to disappear below the wall side when in place.