Modular Profile Connector Assembly Without Pre-Inserted Nuts

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing modular structures require significant time and attention for assembly due to the need to pre-insert nuts into lateral gaps, especially when profiles are perpendicular to the ground, and connection systems often necessitate ad hoc interface elements based on joint direction and type.

Innovation Solution

A modular structure with profiles featuring grooves and indented edges, along with connectors and obstruction elements, allows for easy connection without pre-inserting nuts and enables various connection types using the same interface element.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If conventional connection systems with nuts housed in profile cavities are used, then profiles can be connected rigidly, but assembly requires significant time and attention due to the need to pre-insert nuts into lateral gaps

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of assemblyVSAvoidassembly time

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is designed with pre-integrated nut reception features and guide elements that automatically position nuts during the connection process, eliminating the need for pre-insertion into lateral gaps. The T-shaped profile with integrated cavities and the connector's complementary geometry enable nuts to be captured and positioned automatically as the connector engages the profile.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The connector serves as an intermediary element that mediates between the profile and the nut, providing a standardized interface that simplifies the connection process. The connector's design includes features that guide and constrain the nut, making the assembly process more efficient and less prone to errors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If ad hoc interface elements are used for different joint directions and types, then specific connection requirements can be met, but device complexity increases due to multiple specialized components

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection flexibilityVSAvoidnumber of interface elements

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The T-shaped profile and connector are designed as universal interface elements that can accommodate various joint directions and connection types through their geometric design. The T-shaped profile with its symmetric cavities and the connector's complementary features enable the same basic components to be used for different connection configurations, reducing the need for specialized interface elements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The connection system is segmented into modular components (T-shaped profile, connector, nut) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation allows for standardized interfaces that can be combined in different configurations to meet various connection requirements without increasing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of manufacture

If clamping nuts are inserted by sliding into lateral gaps, then connection can be made, but the nuts must be inserted beforehand since profiles do not allow subsequent insertion at the ends

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of connectionVSAvoidease of nut insertion

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is designed with integrated features that prepare the path for nut insertion and positioning. The guide elements and cavities are pre-formed to receive and constrain the nut, eliminating the need for beforehand insertion into lateral gaps and enabling straightforward assembly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The connector acts as an intermediary that facilitates easy nut insertion by providing a guided path and reception cavity. This intermediary element translates the complex requirement of precise nut positioning into a simple drop-in or slide-in operation, significantly improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS12540469B2Modular structure and making process of said modular structure

Publication Date: 2026.02.03 ALUESSE SH P K

AI summary

Modular structure including profile defining a prevailing development axis, and having a perimeter wall including a groove both extending parallel to the prevailing development axis, at least two edges delimiting the groove, wherein at least part of one is indented; connection for constraining more than one profile and including at least one connector including a flat body extending along a principal axis, including a first constraint guide to couple with a first constraint device and defining side walls and at least partially indented to block mutual translation between connector and profile along the main axis when the connector is in the groove, an obstruction element detachably constrainable to the body for interacting with the profile to block the connector with respect to the profile. The body includes a second constraint guide for housing at least part of a second constraint device to constrain the obstruction element and the connector.