Plug-and-Key Mounting Device for Carton Flow Bed Beam Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing carton flow bed racks face challenges in providing a stable and durable connection between support beams, which is crucial for resisting heavy usage during loading and unloading, while also requiring a simple and quick installation method.
Innovation Solution
A mounting device comprising a plug that can be inserted into one support beam and features an engaging element to secure the second beam, allowing for two different plug positions to provide stability and flexibility in beam alignment, with optional key fixation for enhanced security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a firm and stable connection of support beams is provided to resist heavy usage, then the strength and durability are improved, but the installation complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device is segmented into distinct functional components: a plug portion that inserts into the first support beam, an engaging element that secures the second support beam, and optional key fixation elements. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while simplifying the overall installation process through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug is designed to be inserted into the hollow profile of the first support beam, creating a nested configuration where the mounting device is partially contained within the beam structure. This nesting provides structural integration and stability without requiring external fastening mechanisms, thereby simplifying installation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fixing positions are provided for the plug, then the adaptability for different beam configurations is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The plug is designed with movable capacity along the longitudinal axis, allowing it to be positioned at multiple locations within the hollow profile of the first support beam. This dynamic positioning capability enables adaptation to different beam configurations and heights without requiring multiple specialized mounting devices, thereby maintaining simplicity while enhancing versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting device is designed as a universal component that can accommodate various support beam configurations through the movable plug and adjustable engaging element. The same basic mounting device structure serves multiple functions: securing beams at different heights, accommodating different beam orientations, and providing stable connections in various rack configurations.
3Strength
If the plug is fully inserted into the support beam for maximum stability, then the connection strength is improved, but the accessibility for engaging the second beam deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The plug is designed to be movable within the hollow profile of the first support beam, allowing it to be positioned at optimal locations that balance structural stability with engagement accessibility. The plug can be inserted sufficiently deep to provide anchoring strength while remaining movable to allow the engaging element to properly secure the second support beam.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting device separates the anchoring function (plug in first beam) from the engagement function (engaging element with second beam). This segmentation allows the plug to be optimally positioned for stability within the first beam while the engaging element remains accessible for securing the second beam, resolving the conflict between insertion depth and engagement accessibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting device (100) is provided for connecting two substantially horizontally aligned support beams (20, 30, 40) of a carton flow bed rack (1; 2). The mounting device (100) has a plug (110) pluggable into an end of a first support beam (20) of the support beams. A key (130) is provided as a wedge for fixing the plug (110) in the first support beam (20). An engaging element (120) is arranged at the plug (110). The engaging element (120) is provided to engage a second support beam (30; 40) of the two support beams. The plug (110) is fixable to the first support beam (20) in at least two different plug-positions by means of the key (130).