One-Piece Corner Connector for Multifunctional Frame Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing corner connectors for frame structures lack multifunctionality, particularly in applications like foldaway beds, where they are required to balance force, adjust height, and secure components such as gas springs and adjustable feet.
Innovation Solution
A one-piece corner connector that integrates U-profile connecting pieces with self-tapping screws for secure frame bar connections, allowing for the attachment of gas springs, adjustable feet, and height-adjustable front plates through a screw/hexagonal nut system, providing additional functionality beyond mere bar connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional corner connector is used for connecting frame bars, then the connection function is achieved, but additional functions such as force balancing, height adjustment, and component mounting are not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The corner connector is designed as a universal component that performs multiple functions: connecting frame bars at right angles, mounting gas springs for force balancing, providing height adjustment for front plates, and securing adjustable feet. This multi-functional design resolves the contradiction by making a single connector serve various purposes that would traditionally require multiple separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges previously separate functions into a single integrated corner connector. The connector combines frame bar connection, gas spring mounting, height adjustment mechanism, and foot securing into one unified component, thereby achieving multifunctionality without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate components are used to achieve various functions (connection, force balancing, height adjustment), then each function can be optimized, but the overall device complexity and number of parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The corner connector serves as a universal mounting point for multiple functions. Instead of using separate components for gas spring attachment, height adjustment, and foot securing, the integrated connector provides all these functions through its designed features, thereby reducing the total quantity of parts in the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functional elements into a single corner connector component. The connector integrates frame bar connection, gas spring mounting, height adjustment mechanism, and foot securing features, reducing the number of separate parts needed while maintaining all necessary functions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the corner connector integrates multiple functions, then versatility is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional features into a single corner connector that can be manufactured as one piece. By integrating frame bar connection, gas spring mounting, height adjustment, and foot securing into a unified component with standardized features, the design achieves multifunctionality while maintaining manufacturability through consistent geometric requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
An one-piece corner connector for connecting two frame bars at right angles to one another includes a right-angle bracket having two angle legs, an intermediate plate, and two U-profile connecting pieces at right angles, having a middle leg and two side legs for insertion into the plug-in openings in the frame bars which are open at one end. The middle legs of the U-profile connecting pieces are formed on and run with their outer side parallel to the intermediate plate. The one outer side legs of the U-profile connecting pieces are each formed on one of the angle legs and run with their outer side parallel to the outer side of the angle leg. The other inner side legs of the U-profile connecting pieces are connected to one another by means of a wall element which is angled from the intermediate plate.