Object support system

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tool holding systems are complex to manufacture and difficult to handle, with integral fixing elements making it hard to temporarily attach and detach the object holders from the grid plate, limiting configuration testing before final fixation.

Innovation Solution

The hooking means are arranged above the object holder's openings, with a separate, two-part fixing element that can be reversibly moved from a first position for insertion to a second position for a positive connection, allowing easy attachment and detachment, and featuring expanding or pivoting designs for secure engagement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If the fixing element is integrated into the object holder, then the connection strength is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection strengthVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing element is divided into two separate parts: the object holder and the fixing element itself. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using simple processes, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining the connection strength when assembled together.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The object holder and fixing element are combined through assembly rather than integration. The fixing element is inserted into the object holder and locked in place, creating a strong unified connection while allowing separate manufacturing of the components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Strength

If the fixing element is integrated into the object holder, then the connection strength is improved, but the ease of operation and temporary attachment capability worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

By separating the fixing element from the object holder, the system allows the object holder to be temporarily attached to the grid plate using only the hooking means. The fixing element can be added later to create a permanent connection, enabling easy operation and configuration testing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The hooking means allow preliminary attachment of the object holder to the grid plate before the fixing element is inserted. This preliminary action enables users to test configurations and make adjustments before committing to a permanent installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Strength

If the fixing element is integrated into the object holder, then the connection strength is improved, but the ease of manufacture worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidease of manufacture
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The object holder and fixing element are manufactured as separate components using simple, independent processes. The object holder can be produced with hooking means, while the fixing element is produced separately and then assembled, greatly simplifying manufacturing compared to creating an integrated complex structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Strength

If the fixing element requires simultaneous insertion with the object holder, then the connection strength is improved, but the ease of operation and installation time worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The installation process is divided into two independent steps: first inserting the object holder with hooking means, then separately inserting the fixing element. This segmentation eliminates the need for simultaneous insertion, reducing installation time and complexity while maintaining strong connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The object holder is installed first using the hooking means, allowing preliminary positioning and configuration. The fixing element is inserted afterward to secure the connection, separating the installation steps and reducing overall installation time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

This solution simplifies manufacturing and handling, enabling quick and reliable attachment and detachment of object holders, allowing for temporary configuration testing before forming a secure, form-fitting connection with the grid plate.

Implementation Method 1

the fixing element can be transferred from the first position to the second position by relative movement of the at least two parts

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRelative movement:

Implementation Method 2

the fixing element has an expanding section which, upon expansion, forms a form-fitting connection with a corresponding opening

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Implementation Method 3

the base plate is provided with means for hooking into the openings of the perforated plate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical interlocking: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentEP2671685B1Object support system
Publication Date: 2023.03.29 KAPPES SYST
  • EP2671685B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2671685B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2671685B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The system has a breadboard that is provided with several openings (9). An object holder (1) is provided with a base plate (3) and an object holding portion. The base plate is configured for hooking into the openings of a grid plate. A fixing element is reversibly transferred from a first position inserted into the coinciding openings in a second position, in which form-locking grid plate is connected with a specimen holder.