Mullion-Transom Form-Fit Connection for Torsional Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mullion-transom connections face challenges such as requiring precise positioning of components, use of loose components and tools, and instability under torsional loads, particularly in large and heavy structures like glass facades.
Innovation Solution
A method and material set where the mullion has projections that fit into a recess on the transom, allowing for a form fit in all directions perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and rotation, enabling assembly without additional components or tools and allowing for easy disassembly, with a design that distributes load effectively to prevent deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a screw connection is used to connect the transom to the mullion, then the connection can be made stable and released again, but the face of the bolt must be positioned exactly in the intended position on the post which is difficult especially in the case of large and heavy components
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system uses self-aligning features where the transom's connection element automatically positions itself relative to the mullion through gravitational alignment and geometric constraints, eliminating the need for precise manual positioning while maintaining connection stability
Solution Approach 2:
The connection design creates a gravity-aligned assembly process where the transom naturally settles into the correct position when lowered onto the mullion, using gravitational potential energy to achieve proper alignment without requiring high positioning precision
2Ease of operation
If a dovetail-shaped pocket connection is used, then no additional components or tools are required and assembly is easier, but there is no form fit between the mullion and the transom in the direction opposite to the direction of gravity so the connection is broken when the transom is lifted
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the advantages of tool-free assembly with multi-directional form fit by integrating L-shaped connection elements that provide geometric interlocking in both vertical and horizontal directions, creating a stable connection that maintains form fit under all loading conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system transitions from single-direction (vertical) form fit to multi-directional form fit by using L-shaped geometry that engages in both vertical and horizontal dimensions, preventing disconnection when the transom is lifted or subjected to torsional loads
3Ease of operation
If a hook-like element connection is used, then no additional components or tools are required, but the hook-like element emerges from the receiving opening when the bolt is lifted and the form fit is canceled
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines the simplicity of hook-like element assembly with the stability of multi-directional form fit by using L-shaped connection elements that provide geometric interlocking in both vertical and horizontal directions, preventing the connection from disengaging when the transom is lifted
4Reliability
If a locking plate is pushed into a gap to create form fit in the direction opposite to gravity, then there is a stable form fit, but a locking plate is required which can only be installed after the bolt has been properly arranged and must be kept ready as a loose item
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functions of the locking plate and the connection element into a single integrated L-shaped component that is attached to the mullion, eliminating the need for separate locking plates and loose components while maintaining stable form fit in all directions
Solution Approach 2:
The L-shaped connection element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the form fit in the direction opposite to gravity, prevents torsional rotation, and eliminates the need for separate locking plates, reducing the overall component count and assembly complexity
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for producing a post-and-beam connection between a front face of a beam (1) which has a recess (3) and a longitudinal side of a post (2) on which projections (4a, 5; 4b, 5) protrude. The projections (4a, 5; 4b, 5) are thereby inserted into the recess (3) by a relative movement of the beam (1) with respect to the post (2), which runs transverse to the longitudinal side of the beam (1), across an opening (6) in the boundaries of the recess (3), which opening extends from a longitudinal side of the beam (1) into the recess (3). Thereafter, the beam (1) is brought into its intended position with respect to the post (2) by a rotation in a first rotational direction (D1) around a rotational axis (X) extending parallel to its longitudinal axis, wherein the projections (4a, 5; 4b, 5) and the recess (3) are positioned relative to one another such that after the rotation past the projections (4a, 5; 4b, 5) and the boundaries of the recess (3), a form locking is present between the post (2) and the beam (1) in all directions perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the beam (1) and in the first rotational direction (D1) around the longitudinal axis of the beam (1). By using the method according to the invention, post-and-beam connections can be produced without using additional loose components and/or tools, which post-and-beam connections are form locking in all directions perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the beam and in a rotational direction around the longitudinal axis of the beam. It is additionally possible to reduce the demands on positional precision during assembly.