Integrated Pivot Connector for Easy Structural Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pivot connectors are complex and difficult to assemble, making it challenging to handle and connect structural elements effectively.
Innovation Solution
A pivot connector design featuring two generally planar members with semi-cylindrical tabs that can be secured to structural elements without mechanical fasteners, allowing for easy attachment and pivoting of similar or dissimilar structural members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional pivot connectors are used, then structural elements can be connected, but the connector consists of several parts which need to be assembled and is complicated to handle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate parts of traditional pivot connectors into a single integrated connector body. The connector comprises a unified structure with recesses, tabs, and pivot mechanisms all formed as one piece, eliminating the need for separate components that require assembly. This directly resolves the contradiction by reducing device complexity while maintaining ease of operation through simple single-unit installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector body is segmented into functional zones including first and second recesses for receiving structural elements, tabs for attachment, and pivot mechanisms. Each recess is configured to receive a specific structural element, allowing the single connector to handle multiple different structural elements simultaneously. This segmentation within a unified structure reduces overall complexity while enabling versatile assembly operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional pivot connectors with several parts are used, then structural elements can be connected, but it is difficult to handle the structural elements and pivot connector together in the field
Solution Approach 1:
The single connector body incorporates multiple recesses (first recess, second recess) that can receive different types of structural elements simultaneously. The connector is designed to attach to various structural elements without requiring different connector types or additional parts, providing universal adaptability. This multi-functionality in a single unit improves ease of handling by eliminating the need to manage multiple separate connectors in the field.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple attachment functions into one connector body, allowing a single structural element to be connected to multiple other structural elements through this unified connector. This merging reduces the number of separate components that need to be handled and assembled in the field, directly improving ease of operation while maintaining versatility.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple connector design is used, then ease of attachment is improved, but reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates curved surfaces and rounded transitions in its recesses and attachment surfaces, which improve the ease of attachment by allowing smoother insertion and alignment of structural elements. The curved geometry also distributes stresses more evenly, enhancing reliability without requiring complex reinforcement features. This use of curvature achieves both simplicity and reliability simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector appears to be formed from a single monolithic material or composite structure that provides both ease of attachment through integrated geometry and reliability through uniform material properties throughout. The unified construction eliminates weak points that could arise from multiple joined parts, ensuring reliable performance while maintaining simple attachment procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for pivotably connecting two structural members together includes a generally planar member having a plurality of semi-circular tabs extending from the planar member. The tabs are semi-circular to pivotably receive a vertically extending rod member of one of the structural elements. The connector may include a semi-cylindrical wall portion that is adapted to receive and capture a horizontally extending rod member of one of the structural members.