One-Piece Module Connector With Expandable Locking Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current connectors for connecting frame modules in temporary constructions, such as exhibition stands, are cumbersome, time-inefficient, and lack robustness under impact or load conditions, often requiring multiple parts that can be lost and necessitating complex assembly and disassembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A one-piece connector with movable locking elements that transition between collapsed and extended conditions, allowing for quick and secure clamping of module parts using flat surfaces for even stress distribution and resistance to tensile and bending loads, featuring a sleeve with circumferential slits and a head piece for easy insertion and clamping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a two-part connector with screwing principle is used, then a reliable connection is achieved, but assembly time increases and parts can be lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the body and nut components into a single integrated connector piece. The locking elements are built-in rather than separate, eliminating the need to assemble multiple parts. This merging reduces assembly steps and prevents parts from being lost while maintaining connection reliability through the integrated locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector incorporates movable locking elements that can transition between retracted and extended positions. This segmentation of the locking function allows the connector to be inserted in a compact state and then locked into place, providing reliable connection without requiring separate fastening operations.
2Strength
If a two-part connector is used, then adjustable clamping force is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The body and nut components are merged into a single integrated structure with built-in locking elements. This reduces device complexity by eliminating separate parts while maintaining adjustable clamping force through the movable locking mechanism that can be engaged or disengaged as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements are designed to be movable between retracted and extended positions, allowing dynamic adjustment of the clamping force. This dynamic capability provides adjustable strength without requiring complex separate fastening components.
3Strength
If locking elements are extended for clamping, then connection strength increases, but insertion difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking elements are designed to be movable between retracted and extended positions. During insertion, they remain retracted to minimize interference and ease insertion. After insertion, they can be extended to provide strong clamping force. This dynamic positioning resolves the contradiction between insertion ease and connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements are pre-positioned in a retracted state before insertion to facilitate easy placement through the holes. After the connector is inserted into position, the locking elements are then extended to engage with the frame modules and provide the necessary clamping strength.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector (100) for releasably connecting frame modules (1201, 1202) has a sleeve (108) with one or more circumferential slits (105, 112); a head piece (109) with a flat surface (110) defining a front clamping surface; and a first set of locking elements (101), of which each locking element (301, 305) has a flat surface (310). The locking elements of the first set (101) are placed in the one or more circumferential slits (105, 112) and are movable between a collapsed condition and an extended condition, such that the associated protruding flat surfaces together define a rear clamping surface. The connector (100) is adapted to clamp two module parts (1203, 1204) in extended condition of the first set of locking elements (101), after being inserted through corresponding holes (1300) in the module parts (1203, 1204) in collapsed condition of the locking elements (101).