Node element for a furniture system having a three-dimensional load-bearing tube structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing furniture systems with three-dimensional load-bearing tubular structures face complexity and mechanical sensitivity issues in power supply due to intricate contact devices, particularly at node elements, which are prone to mechanical influences.
Innovation Solution
A node element with two mutually electrically insulated regions allows for coaxial tapping of electrical polarities at connection points, enabling simple and robust power supply through a three-dimensional rectangular grid structure, where tubes can be connected without requiring alignment, using a conductive outer part, an inner part, and an insulating layer, with threads and surfaces serving both mechanical and electrical functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional contact devices (bushings and plugs) are used for power supply in furniture node elements, then electrical power can be supplied to consuming units, but the device structure becomes complicated and the contact devices become sensitive to mechanical influences
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines mechanical connection and electrical contact functions into a single integrated node element. The conductive regions are directly formed as integral parts of the node element body, eliminating the need for separate bushings and plugs. This merging of functions reduces structural complexity while enhancing mechanical robustness, as the contact devices are no longer sensitive to mechanical influences.
Solution Approach 2:
The node element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical connection for tubes, electrical power supply through conductive regions, and structural support. The threaded bores and connection points enable both mechanical fastening and electrical contact, making the node element a multi-functional component that reduces overall system complexity.
2Device complexity
If separate conductors and junctions are used for bipolar current transmission, then electrical connections can be established, but the device structure becomes more complex and requires additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of separate conductors and junctions into integrated conductive regions within the node element. The first and second conductive regions directly provide bipolar current transmission paths without requiring external junctions, thereby reducing the number of components while maintaining reliable electrical connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The node element itself provides the electrical conduction paths through its own conductive regions, eliminating the need for separate external conductors and junctions. The node element serves its own electrical connection needs, reducing system complexity while ensuring reliable current transmission.
3Ease of operation
If traditional electrical connection methods are used, then power can be supplied, but alignment requirements increase and installation becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The node element provides both mechanical connection points and electrical contact regions in a single integrated component. The threaded bores accommodate tubes while the conductive regions provide electrical contact, allowing both mechanical and electrical connections to be established simultaneously without separate alignment procedures, thereby easing installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines mechanical fastening and electrical contact functions into the same node element structure. The connection points for tubes and the conductive regions for electrical contact are integrated, eliminating the need for separate alignment of mechanical and electrical components, thus reducing alignment precision requirements and simplifying installation.
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
This solution simplifies electrical connections, enhances mechanical stability, and allows bipolar current transmission between tubes, reducing the need for separate conductors and junctions, while maintaining structural versatility and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
a node element (100) for a furniture system having a three-dimensional load-bearing tubular structure, wherein the node element (100) comprises a plurality of connection points for the mechanical fastening of two or more tubes and wherein the node element has two regions which are electrically insulated from each other
Implementation Method 2
enabling simple and robust power supply through a three-dimensional rectangular grid structure, where tubes can be connected without requiring alignment, using a conductive outer part, an inner part, and an insulating layer
Data Source
AI summary
A node element for a furniture system having a three-dimensional load-bearing tubular structure comprises a plurality of connection points for the mechanical fastening of two or more tubes. It further comprises two regions which are electrically insulated from each other and which are arranged such that two electrical polarities can be coaxially tapped at the connection points for the tubes.