Structure with hollow or partially hollow structural elements, with modular and improved system of joints
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shade structures with hollow or partially hollow structural elements face issues such as limited durability, complex assembly procedures, and inadequate resistance due to worn-out fixing systems and the need for specialized tools and shaped structural elements.
Innovation Solution
A modular system of prismatic joints with square or rectangular cross sections, featuring internal and terminal joints with aligned holes for secure screw fixation, allowing for easy assembly and connection of structural elements without visible joints, reducing production costs and tool requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fixing systems with screws and brackets are used to connect hollow structural elements, then the structure can be assembled, but the fixing system wears out easily and limits the number of reassembly cycles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary component (the connection element with threaded hole) that mediates between the structural element and the screw. This intermediary absorbs the wear and stress, allowing the structural elements themselves to remain intact and reusable for multiple assembly cycles without the fixing system wearing out the elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing system is segmented into distinct functional parts: the connection element embedded in the structural element, the screw for tightening, and the angle connector for joining. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function and replaced independently if worn.
2Strength
If connection elements are inserted in hollow structural elements for connection, then structural elements can be joined, but the thickness is insufficient for stable screw anchorage requiring additional threaded bushes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the connection element and the threaded bushing into a single integrated component. The connection element itself is provided with a threaded hole directly, eliminating the need for separate threaded bushes and reducing the total number of components while maintaining stable screw anchorage.
3Ease of manufacture
If hollow structural elements are specially shaped with grooves and inner seats for connection elements, then connections can be made, but production costs increase and structural elements become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex shaping requirements from the structural elements and places them in the separate connection elements. The structural elements can remain simple hollow tubes, while the connection elements contain the grooves, seats, and threaded holes needed for assembly, simplifying structural element manufacturing.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of connection elements are used in known structures, then various connection needs can be met, but assembly procedures become very complex requiring good manual skills and many specific tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal connection element design that can serve multiple connection purposes. The standardized connection element with axial insertion and threaded hole can accommodate various structural element configurations and connection needs, reducing the variety of specialized connection elements required while maintaining assembly versatility.
5Stability of the object's composition
If angle connectors with visible centre bodies are used to connect structural elements, then joints can be formed, but the joints remain visible and aesthetic appearance is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connection element is nested inside the hollow structural element, with only the necessary external connection features protruding. This nesting conceals the complex joint mechanisms within the structural elements themselves, creating a cleaner, more aesthetic appearance while maintaining joint stability.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The invention is a structure (S) with hollow or partially hollow structural elements (P1, P2, P2'), shading or covering in general or suited to be used for furniture in general, comprising a plurality of said hollow or partially hollow structural elements (P1, P2, P2') and a system of joints (1, 2, 1', 2', 3, 4, 5, 6) suited to join said structural elements (P1, P2, P2') to one another.