Modular Corner Connector Assembly for Tolerance-Tolerant Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular systems for structuring spaces face challenges in secure and simplified installation due to dimensional tolerances and deformation slopes, particularly when modular elements are made of plastic, leading to complex alignment requirements and potential twisting during assembly.
Innovation Solution
A modular system featuring box-shaped modular elements with arc-shaped connecting structures and corresponding pins, along with a positioning device that includes an axis aligned with the arc-shaped contour, allows for interlocking connections that prevent relative movement and ensure precise positioning, enabling easy and secure assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If modular elements are made of plastic material, then manufacturing flexibility and design freedom are improved, but dimensional tolerances worsen due to demolding process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent anticipates the dimensional tolerance issue by designing the connecting structure with an arc-shaped contour and a corresponding void that can accommodate positioning deviations. The positioning device with its axis arranged on the arc-shaped contour acts as a preliminary compensation mechanism that absorbs the tolerance variations before they affect the final connection precision.
2Stability of the object's composition
If modular elements have box-shaped design, then structural stability is improved, but installation complexity worsens due to deforming slopes and alignment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by designing the connecting structure with an arc-shaped contour instead of sharp corners. This rounded design allows the positioning device's axis to be arranged on the contour, enabling rough positioning during installation while the curved geometry naturally guides precise alignment, reducing installation complexity while maintaining structural stability.
3Reliability
If connecting structures are designed for direct screwing, then connection reliability is improved, but installation time worsens due to exact positioning requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a positioning device as an intermediary between the modular elements and the connecting structure. The positioning device with its axis arranged on the arc-shaped contour performs the rough positioning function, allowing the actual connecting elements to be inserted without requiring precise pre-alignment, thus reducing installation time while maintaining connection reliability through the subsequent interlocking connection.
4Adaptability or versatility
If modular elements are designed with connecting structures at corners, then connection versatility is improved, but twisting risk worsens during assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetry by designing the connecting structure with an arc-shaped contour that has a specific geometric form, and the positioning device's axis is arranged on this contour in a non-symmetric manner. This asymmetric design prevents modular elements from twisting relative to each other during assembly, as the unique geometric relationship between the arc-shaped contour and the axis position creates a predetermined orientation that resists rotational movement while maintaining connection versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a modular system (10) for structuring or shaping spaces, surfaces, or the like, comprising a component assembly, which comprises at least two modular elements (12) and at least one connecting element (14, 15, 16), said modular element being designed as a box-shaped body, whose base has at least three corners, each corner forming a connecting structure for connecting the modular element to a connecting element, said connecting structure being designed as an arc-shaped contour of the corner together with a void adjacent to the contour, said connecting element forming a pin for each of the connecting structures to be connected, said pin being designed congruent with the void and in such a manner that the pin can be interlockingly inserted into the void, said connecting element forming a positioning device for positioning the connecting element on the modular element, said positioning device comprising an axis, said axis being designed congruent with the contour and in such a manner that the axis can be arranged on the contour.