Set of panels with a mechanical locking device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing furniture panel assembly systems lack ease of assembly, stability, and aesthetic appeal, with a need for improved stiffness and strength in mechanical locking devices to prevent incorrect installation and enhance manufacturing efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical locking system comprising a rod-shaped element and insertion groove with angled locking grooves, allowing for perpendicular panel alignment and oblique locking force application, facilitated by a cam and dowel connector or screw mechanism, which guides panels into a stable locked position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a mechanical locking device is used to connect panels, then the structural integrity is improved, but the ease of assembly deteriorates due to complex installation procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is divided into separate components: a locking element with a head and a body portion, and a corresponding locking groove. This segmentation allows for easier assembly as components can be independently positioned and connected, while still providing strong structural integrity when locked together.
Solution Approach 2:
The rod-shaped element acts as an intermediary component that guides and facilitates the connection between panels. It provides a mechanical path for alignment and insertion, making the assembly process more intuitive and easier to perform correctly.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional locking mechanisms are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but the risk of incorrect installation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element features an asymmetric design with a head portion and a body portion that fits into a corresponding asymmetric locking groove. This asymmetry provides built-in guidance that prevents incorrect installation, as the components can only be assembled in the correct orientation. The design maintains manufacturing simplicity by using basic geometric forms.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking groove is pre-formed in the panel with specific geometric characteristics that guide the locking element into the correct position during assembly. This preliminary preparation of the receiving structure ensures proper alignment and reduces the risk of incorrect installation without complicating the manufacturing process.
3Ease of manufacture
If simple locking devices are used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but the stiffness and strength of the connection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element extends in an oblique direction relative to the panel surface, utilizing a three-dimensional configuration rather than a simple planar connection. This dimensional approach allows the locking element to engage with the locking groove in a way that provides both shear strength and resistance to pulling forces, enhancing the overall connection strength while maintaining ease of manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The rod-shaped locking element has a curved or rounded profile that complements the geometry of the locking groove. This curved design allows for smoother stress distribution and better mechanical interlocking, increasing the stiffness and strength of the connection without requiring complex manufacturing processes.
4Stability of the object's composition
If perpendicular panel alignment is required, then structural stability is improved, but the complexity of the locking device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric geometry of the locking element and locking groove inherently guides the panels into perpendicular alignment during assembly. The specific angles and orientations of the locking features provide mechanical guidance that ensures proper alignment without requiring additional alignment mechanisms or complex adjustment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device is designed to self-align the panels into the correct perpendicular position during the assembly process. The geometric characteristics of the locking element and groove automatically guide the panels into proper alignment as they are brought together, eliminating the need for separate alignment steps or complex positioning mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A set including a first panel, a second panel and a mechanical locking device for locking the first panel to the second panel. The first edge surface is facing the second panel surface in a locked position of the first and the second panel, the mechanical locking device includes a rod-shaped element at the first edge surface and an insertion groove at the second panel surface, the rod-shaped element is configured to be inserted into the insertion groove. A first locking groove at the first edge surface and a second locking groove at the second panel surface and a locking part, where the locking part is configured to be inserted into the first locking groove and the second locking groove. The locking part is configured to apply a locking force between the first and the second panel in an oblique direction in relation to the second panel surface.