Modular Enclosure Panel Connector Pin and Reinforcement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional methods for connecting modular enclosure panels often result in insecure attachments and structural issues due to the use of overlapping joints with threaded fasteners or structural members, which can lead to instability and water intrusion in storage enclosures.

Innovation Solution

The use of a connector pin with two prongs that fits into bores on adjacent panels, combined with an elongated structural reinforcing member and molded blind bores, provides a secure and stable connection, enhancing structural reinforcement and preventing water intrusion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If overlapping joints with threaded fasteners are used to connect modular enclosure panels, then the connection method is simple and easy to manufacture, but the attachment becomes insecure and structurally unstable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment securityVSAvoidconnection structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection system is divided into separate functional components: connector pins with prongs for insertion into bores, elongated structural reinforcing members for structural support, and fasteners for securing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall connection security without excessive complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connection assembly combines multiple materials with different properties: molded panels (likely plastic or composite), metal connector pins and reinforcing members for strength, and fasteners. This composite approach leverages the advantages of each material to achieve secure attachment while managing complexity through specialized component design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Stability of the object's composition

If multiple fasteners are used to secure modular enclosure panels, then the structural stability is improved, but the device complexity and number of components increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenclosure stabilityVSAvoidnumber of fasteners and components

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple fastening functions are merged into an integrated connection system where connector pins with prongs engage with bores in the panels, elongated reinforcing members provide continuous structural support along panel joints, and fasteners secure the entire assembly. This merging reduces the number of separate fasteners needed while maintaining or improving stability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector pins with prongs act as intermediaries between the molded panels and the elongated reinforcing members. The pins insert into bores to create mechanical engagement points, allowing the reinforcing members to bridge panel joints effectively without requiring multiple direct fasteners between each panel pair.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Object-affected harmful factors

If traditional connection methods are used for modular panels, then the manufacturing process is simple, but water intrusion occurs through the panel connections

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewater intrusion resistanceVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The connector pins with prongs are nested within the bores of the molded panels, creating an interlocking mechanism. The elongated structural reinforcing members are positioned within channels or between the panels, and fasteners secure the entire nested assembly. This nested structure provides water intrusion resistance by creating multiple barriers and tight seals without complex manufacturing processes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

4Strength

If connector pins with prongs are used to connect panels through bores, then the attachment security is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepanel connection strengthVSAvoidbore alignment and pin insertion precision

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The connector pins are designed with specific geometric parameters including angled prongs that facilitate insertion into the bores. The prongs are shaped to guide themselves during insertion, reducing the precision required for perfect alignment. The molding process for creating bores and the manufacturing of pins are optimized with tolerances that accommodate normal manufacturing variations while maintaining secure connection strength.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS11674302B2Modular enclosures and structures, and components thereof

Publication Date: 2023.06.13 RUBBERMAID COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS LLC

AI summary

Modular enclosures, structures, and components thereof are provided herein. A modular enclosure may include a plurality of enclosure panels and a dormer. A modular assembly may include first and second panels, an elongated structural reinforcing member, and a connector pin connecting the first and second panels. Another modular assembly may include a molded panel including an elongated channel, an elongated reinforcing member positioned in the channel, and at least one fastener configured to retain the elongated reinforcing member within the channel. The elongated reinforcing member may include pins to be retained within blind bores of the elongated channel.