Interlocking Corrugated Paper Stool Structure for Tool-Free Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional corrugated paper stools have poor carrying capacity and pressure resistance, leading to deformation and require assistant elements for assembly, making recycling and classification inconvenient, and exposing fastening structures.
Innovation Solution
A stool design featuring a polygonal fixing portion with inserting slots, supporting portions with inserting flaps, and a combining portion with positioning slots, which allows for assembly without adhesives or tools, enhancing carrying capacity and pressure resistance while creating a containing space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If assistant elements (glue, tape, plastic objects, metal objects) are used to assemble corrugated paper stools, then the stools can be assembled, but recycling and classification become inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The stool is divided into multiple detachable components (seat, legs, crossbars) that can be assembled and disassembled without permanent bonding agents. Each component maintains its structural integrity while allowing for easy separation during recycling processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The stool structure incorporates self-assembling features through interlocking geometric shapes and friction-fit connections, eliminating the need for external assistant elements like glue or tape. The components are designed to assemble themselves through simple insertion and locking mechanisms.
2Strength
If conventional corrugated paper stools are designed to improve carrying capacity and pressure resistance, then strength increases, but the stools become deformed easily and lack containing space
Solution Approach 1:
The stool structure is segmented into a modular framework with separate load-bearing elements (legs and crossbars) and a seat portion. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall structural stability and creating internal containing space.
Solution Approach 2:
The stool utilizes composite construction combining corrugated paper with strategic reinforcement elements and geometric bracing. The interlocking framework creates a composite structure that distributes loads effectively, preventing deformation while maintaining the lightweight corrugated paper characteristics.
3Ease of manufacture
If corrugated paper is adhered and fastened to form the stool, then the stool structure is formed, but fastening structures become exposed
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening mechanisms are nested within the stool structure itself, with connecting elements hidden inside the interlocking framework. The geometric shapes are designed so that connection points are concealed within the overall form, presenting a clean, uninterrupted surface appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening structures are merged with the structural components themselves, where the connecting elements are integrated into the legs and crossbars rather than being separate attachments. This unifies the aesthetic appearance while maintaining structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
A stool includes a polygonal fixing portion, a plurality of supporting portions, and a combining portion. The polygonal fixing portion includes a plurality of inserting slots, and each of the inserting slots is located between two adjacent sides. Each of the supporting portions includes a supporting sheet and two inserting flaps, and the inserting flaps extend from two sides of the supporting sheet and are inserted into the adjacent inserting slots to position the supporting portions at a side of the polygonal fixing portion. The combining portion includes a plurality of positioning slots. The positioning slots of the combining portion are fastened to the inserting flaps to combine the supporting portions to form a polygonal column.