Profile system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing profile systems require tight tolerances for frictional engagement, complicating manufacturing and increasing costs due to the need for precise fitting of intermediate and/or end elements with profiles.
Innovation Solution
A system using elongated profiles with constant cross-sections and connecting pins having two end regions, where the first end region forms a radially outwardly curved clamping section with a recess for a positive and non-positive fit into profile openings, and the second end region has an annular recess for a snap-fit connection with intermediate elements, allowing for easy assembly and reliable detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If connecting sections are frictionally engaged in profiles under pressure, then secure connection is achieved, but tight tolerances are required which complicates and increases manufacturing cost
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting pin is divided into two separate end regions: a first end region with a clamping section for insertion into the profile, and a second end region with a receiving section for connection to the intermediate element. This segmentation allows each end to be optimized independently - the clamping section can be designed with elastic deformation capability while the receiving section provides positive locking, thereby achieving secure connection without requiring tight tolerances across the entire connecting component.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping section of the first end region is designed to change its dimensional parameters during insertion - specifically, it elastically deforms to compress its outer diameter as it is inserted into the receiving opening. This parameter change enables the clamping section to create a secure frictional engagement with the profile while accommodating tolerance variations, eliminating the need for tight manufacturing tolerances.
2Reliability
If tight tolerances are required for frictional engagement, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting pin is divided into two separate end regions: a first end region with a clamping section for insertion into the profile, and a second end region with a receiving section for connection to the intermediate element. This segmentation allows each end to be optimized independently - the clamping section can be designed with elastic deformation capability while the receiving section provides positive locking, thereby achieving secure connection without requiring tight tolerances across the entire connecting component.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting pin is designed as a simple, inexpensive component that can be manufactured using standard processes without requiring tight tolerances or specialized materials. The use of common plastics or metals with standard molding or machining processes reduces manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining sufficient connection reliability for the application.
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 system enables simple, cost-effective manufacturing with secure and detachable connections between profiles and intermediate/end elements, ensuring quick assembly and a visually appealing appearance while providing anti-rotation protection.
Implementation Method 1
The elasticity required to compress the outer diameter of the clamping section is provided by the recess in the clamping section
Implementation Method 2
If the free end of the second end section is inserted with pressure into a receiving hole of an intermediate and/or end element, a positive-locking connection is achieved as soon as the outer wall of the intermediate and/or end element surrounding the corresponding receiving hole snaps or clicks into the annular recess of the receiving section
Data Source
Figure 1~5
Figure 6
Figure 7~9
AI summary
The invention relates to a system comprising elongated profiles (1) having a constant cross-section along their length, intermediate and/or end elements (8; 28) designed to be arranged between profiles (1) or to terminate a profile (1) at its end face, and connecting pins (14) each having two end regions (15, 16) provided as separate components, designed to detachably connect a profile (1) at its end face to an intermediate and/or end element (8; 28).