Pivoting Frame Connector Assembly for Flush Internal Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for frame members often require external features that introduce spacing issues, limiting flexibility and alignment when connecting different frame members, and fail to provide a secure, internal locking mechanism against both translational and rotational movements.
Innovation Solution
A connector with a body and fulcrum that pivots within a channel, allowing for internal connection and locking of frame members, utilizing a tee nut and set screw mechanism to inhibit relative movement, while maintaining flexibility in positioning and alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If external features (e.g., plates) are added to connectors to allow joining frame members at different angles, then adaptability is improved, but the frame members cannot be located flush against one another and alignment with other frame members becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of adding external features to the connector to achieve angular flexibility, the invention inverts the approach by using the internal channel structure of the frame members themselves. The connector operates entirely within the channels, using the channel geometry to provide both angular adaptability and flush alignment, eliminating the need for external plates that interfere with member positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is nested entirely within the channels of the frame members, with no external features protruding from the members. This nesting approach allows the connector to provide angular flexibility through its internal mechanism while maintaining flush positioning, as the entire connector assembly is contained within the channel cavities.
2Manufacturing precision
If connectors are designed with fixed locations once installed into frame members, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability in positioning frame members is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates a dynamic pivoting mechanism that allows it to rotate within the channel after installation. This dynamic feature enables the connector to adapt to different positioning requirements while maintaining its fixed location within the channel, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing precision and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides a fixed connection point within the channel for manufacturing precision, while simultaneously offering pivoting capability for adaptability. This multi-functionality allows a single connector design to satisfy both the need for precise installation and flexible positioning.
3Ease of operation
If connectors allow frame members to be connected with spacing between them, then ease of operation is improved, but productivity is reduced due to additional spaces requiring alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the spacing function from external features and relocates it to the internal channel structure. The connector operates within the channel to provide the necessary spacing while maintaining flush alignment, eliminating the need for external plates that create alignment difficulties and reduce assembly productivity.
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 provides a secure, internal connection that locks frame members against both translational and rotational movements, offering maximum flexibility in positioning and alignment without the need for external modifications, enhancing usability and accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
The fulcrum is coupled to the body between the first end and the second end and provides a pivot point about which the body can pivot within the channel of the first frame member to selectively lock the two frame members against relative movement.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector is configured to connect two frame members. The connector includes a body with a first end and a second end spaced from the first end. A fulcrum is coupled to the body between the first end and the second end. The body is configured to be received in a channel of a frame member and pivots about the fulcrum inside the channel between a first pivot position in which the frame members are free to move relative to one another and a second pivot position in which the frame members are locked against relative movement.