Composed element, multi-layered board and panel-shaped element for forming this composed element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing furniture assembly methods, particularly for flat-pack furniture, are cumbersome for DIY assembly due to complex connection systems and excessive accessories, which increase manufacturing costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A composed element design featuring panel-shaped elements with profiled parts that allow interlocking coupling, where the profiled parts are hidden from view, enabling easy assembly and minimizing aesthetic impact, using materials like laminate strips or ABS for durability and a snap-action mechanism for secure joining.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If furniture panels are connected with multiple connection accessories (pins, screws, clamping pins), then connection strength is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple connection functions into a single coupling means that combines a profiled part for interlocking with integrated locking elements. This merging eliminates the need for separate pins, screws, and clamping pins, reducing the number of accessories while maintaining connection strength through the combined interlocking and locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling means is designed as a universal connection system that can join panel-shaped elements in various configurations (edge-to-edge, end-to-end, at angles). The single coupling means performs multiple functions: providing structural strength through interlocking, securing joints through locking elements, and enabling easy assembly through a standardized interface that works across different furniture components.
2Reliability
If furniture is supplied with many connection accessories, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of operation and manufacturing cost worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling means combines interlocking and locking functions in a single integrated component that attaches to the panel edge. This eliminates the need for users to manage multiple separate accessories (pins, screws, clamps), making assembly simple while maintaining reliable connections through the combined mechanical interlocking and locking mechanism.
3Strength
If profiled parts are made visible for structural integrity, then connection strength is improved, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the visible portion of the profiled part from the aesthetic zone by providing a covering element that conceals the profiled part's contour. The profiled part remains fully functional for structural interlocking, but its visible appearance is removed or hidden, separating the structural function from the aesthetic function.
Solution Approach 2:
The covering element is applied locally at the end face or edge zone where the profiled part is visible, rather than covering the entire panel. This localized treatment maintains the structural integrity and visibility of the profiled part where needed for connection, while hiding it only in the aesthetic display areas.
4Shape
If covering material is added to hide profiled parts, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The covering element is integrated with the panel-shaped element during manufacturing, combining the panel production and covering application into a single process step. This merging eliminates separate covering installation steps, reducing manufacturing complexity while achieving the aesthetic benefit of hidden profiled parts.
Data Source
AI summary
Composed element including at least two panel-shaped elements, which each have an edge zone in which coupling means are present in the form of a profiled part respectively extending in the longitudinal direction of the respective edge zone, as well as each including an end face extending transversely to the respective edge zone, wherein said profiled parts allow coupling the panel-shaped elements together in an interlocking manner, wherein at least one of the panel-shaped elements includes an arrangement which hides from view at least a portion of the profiled part formed at the pertaining edge zone at the location of the end face.