Modular Frame Snap-Coupling for Partition Wall Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular frame structures for partition walls lack precision in vertical alignment during installation, compromise on mechanical strength and aesthetics, and are complex to design and reinstall, leading to increased labor and time requirements.
Innovation Solution
A modular frame structure featuring telescopic section bars and snap-coupling devices with elastic deformation, which allows for precise alignment, high mechanical strength, and easy assembly, while hiding connecting members for improved aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional angular connecting members and screw-based joiners are used to secure cross bars and bases, then the structure provides adequate mechanical strength, but the installation time increases and mounting precision decreases due to the complexity of alignment and assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The frame structure is divided into modular components (cross bars, bases, mounts) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each component has standardized connection interfaces that simplify the assembly process while maintaining structural integrity through distributed load paths across multiple connection points.
Solution Approach 2:
Angular connecting members serve as intermediary elements that facilitate the connection between cross bars and bases. These intermediaries provide a standardized interface that simplifies the joining process while ensuring adequate mechanical strength through their geometric design that distributes loads effectively.
2Ease of operation
If snap-coupling joiners are used to form the seat for the pane, then the assembly process is simplified, but the connection safety decreases as they cannot ensure constant and repeatable pressure transversally to the pane to support accidental impacts
Solution Approach 1:
The support member and joiner functions are merged into an integrated component. The support member at the base provides primary load-bearing capacity for the pane weight, while the joiners provide secondary retention and positioning. This combination ensures that even if one system has limitations, the other compensates to maintain overall connection safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The design changes the pressure application mechanism from relying solely on snap-coupling elastic deformation to incorporating a support member that provides gravitational load support. This parameter change in the load path ensures constant pressure on the pane while maintaining ease of assembly through the snap-coupling mechanism.
3Strength
If the thickness of the frame sides is increased to provide high mechanical strength for snap joiners, then the connection strength improves, but the aesthetics of the wall is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The frame structure uses local reinforcement only at critical connection points (mounts and joiner locations) rather than uniformly increasing the thickness of entire frame sides. This allows the frame to maintain adequate mechanical strength at stress concentration points while keeping the overall profile sleek and aesthetically pleasing.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure utilizes composite construction with strategically placed reinforcement elements or internal bracing that provide high mechanical strength without increasing the external dimensions. This allows the frame to achieve the required connection strength while maintaining a slim, aesthetically pleasing appearance from the exterior.
4Stability of the object's composition
If traditional frame structures with multiple separate components are used, then the design provides structural stability, but the designing complexity and installation complexity increase, making it unsuitable for frequent reinstallation
Solution Approach 1:
The frame components are designed with universal connection interfaces that can accommodate different configurations and pane arrangements. The standardized mounts, cross bars, and bases can be reused across multiple installation scenarios, reducing designing complexity while maintaining structural stability through consistent connection geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure incorporates elements that allow for easy disassembly and reconfiguration. The connection mechanisms are designed to be dynamically adjustable, enabling frequent reinstallation and reconfiguration without compromising structural integrity, thus reducing both designing and installation complexity for temporary or movable partitions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution simplifies manufacturing and installation, enhances mounting precision and safety, reduces installation time, and maintains aesthetic appeal, making it suitable for frequent reinstallation scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
a body portion (19) of the snap-coupling device (18) projects cantilever in the invitation and coupling seat (5) and, facing a sliding and resting wall (8), forms therewith a coupling slit (20) that, in disengaging conditions, has reduced dimensions going towards the seat opening (10). The body portion (19) of the snap-coupling device (18) is made of a material allowing an elastic deformation thereof to snap-receive the coupling section bar (6) in the coupling slit (20)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A modular frame structure (1) of a partition wall made of glass panes, or other pane material, or pane (7), comprises: - a side assembly (2) to form at least one of the lower side, or base, of the frame structure (1), or the upper side, or cross bar, of the frame structure (1), or a mount, or column member arranged between the base and the cross bar, of the frame structure (1); - said side assembly (2) comprising - a track (3) suitable to firmly connect to the ceiling or the floor or a support structure, said track (3) having body extending along a preset first longitudinal extent (X-X); - said assembly further comprising a telescopic section bar (4), suitable to be connected to said track (3); - said telescopic section bar (4) forming at least one invitation and coupling seat (5) and being suitable to receive a coupling section bar (6) secured to said pane (7); - said invitation and coupling seat (5) being defined by a sliding and resting wall (8) that, with an edge (9) thereof, defines a seat opening (10) through which the seat (5) opens to the outside of said telescopic section bar (4); - said invitation and coupling seat (5) being defined by a bottom wall (11) comprising a snap-coupling device seat (12) in which a snap-coupling device (18) is received with a base portion (17) thereof so that a body portion (19) thereof projects cantilever in said invitation and coupling seat (5) and, facing said sliding and resting wall (8), forms therewith a coupling slit (20) that, in disengaging conditions, has reduced dimensions going towards said seat opening (10); - said body portion (19) of said snap-coupling device (18) having a shape and a material allowing an elastic deformation thereof to snap-receive said coupling section bar (6) in said coupling slit (20) so that an undercut (16) provided for in said coupling section bar (6) is coupled by the mutual action of the snap-coupling device (18) and the sliding and resting wall (8).