Furniture Panel Connector With Removable Expanding Reinforcing Part
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing three-in-one connectors for furniture panels have a large cam diameter, making the connector visible and affecting the aesthetics of the furniture. Additionally, the reinforcing part is difficult to remove once mounted, requiring the panel to be broken and compromising aesthetics and recyclability.
Innovation Solution
A connecting assembly with a reinforcing part that has a connecting end with a deformation gap forming an elastic part, and a plug that can switch between a released and locked position, driving the elastic part to elastically deform and expand outward to secure the reinforcing part in place, allowing for easy removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the reinforcing part is fastened inside the panel by countersunk teeth, then the connection strength is improved, but the reinforcing part cannot be removed after mounting, requiring the panel to be broken
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transforms the static fastening mechanism into a dynamic one by introducing a cam that can rotate between a locking position (where countersunk teeth engage the panel) and an unlocking position (where the teeth disengage). This allows the reinforcing part to be securely fastened during use but easily removed when needed, resolving the contradiction between connection strength and removability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention incorporates a preliminary removal mechanism by pre-positioning the cam and countersunk teeth structure before final assembly. The cam is designed to enable preliminary engagement and disengagement of the reinforcing part without damaging the panel, allowing for adjustment or removal if positioning is incorrect
2Reliability
If the cam diameter is large, then the connection reliability is improved, but the connector becomes visible through the hole, affecting aesthetics
Solution Approach 1:
The invention resolves the contradiction by transitioning from a two-dimensional view (hole diameter on panel surface) to a three-dimensional solution (cam positioned within the panel thickness). The cam with large diameter is located inside the panel rather than on the surface, allowing reliable connection while maintaining aesthetic appearance by eliminating visible holes
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 solution enhances the invisibility of the connector by reducing the cam diameter and improves the ease of removing the reinforcing part without damaging the panel, thus maintaining the integrity and aesthetics of the furniture while facilitating recyclability.
Implementation Method 1
the plug drives at least a part of the elastic part to elastically deform and expand outward
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention discloses a connecting assembly and a connecting system, the connecting assembly comprises a reinforcing part, a cam and a plug, the reinforcing part has a connecting end and a mounting end positioned opposite each other, the end of the connecting end has a connecting passage, and the side surface of the connecting end has at least one deformation gap, a part of the connecting end is defined by the deformation gap to form at least one elastic part, the outer side surface of the elastic part has a fastening protrusion; the outer side surface of the reinforcing part has a mounting space connected to the connecting passage; the cam is rotatably installed in the mounting space; the plug has an inserting passage running through both ends of the plug, with one end of the plug inserted into the connecting passage from the connecting end; the plug can switch between a released position and a locked position; when the plug switches from the released position to the locked position, the plug drives at least a part of the elastic part to elastically deform and expand outward; according to the connecting assembly of present invention, the reinforcing part can be easily removed from the mounting passage, making the operation convenient.