Recessed-Key Panel Interlocking Device for Single-Fastener Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for connecting panels often involve multiple fasteners, which can be complex and difficult to manage, and do not allow for flexibility in panel shape or orientation beyond the joint.
Innovation Solution
A recessed-key interlocking device that uses uniform gaps and fingers on panel edges and a small cylindrical key to create a channel for secure connection, allowing panels to be connected with a single fastening mechanism while maintaining flexibility in panel shape and orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If multiple fasteners such as screws and hinges are used to connect panels, then the connection strength is improved, but the device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fastening functions into a single integrated recessed-key mechanism. The key simultaneously performs insertion, locking, and securing functions that would traditionally require multiple separate fasteners, thereby reducing component count while maintaining connection strength
Solution Approach 2:
The recessed-key is designed as a universal fastening element that can connect panels of various sizes and configurations. A single key design serves multiple purposes: it acts as a connector, a lock, and a structural support element, eliminating the need for different types of fasteners for different applications
2Reliability
If multiple fasteners are used to connect panels, then the connection reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to managing multiple components
Solution Approach 1:
The panel edges are segmented into interlocking fingers and gaps that guide the key into position. This segmentation provides automatic alignment and positioning, ensuring reliable connection while simplifying the assembly process by eliminating the need for precise manual positioning of multiple fasteners
Solution Approach 2:
The interlocking finger-and-gap structure on panel edges automatically guides and positions the recessed-key during insertion. The geometry of the fingers and gaps self-aligns the key, providing reliable connection without requiring the operator to manually position multiple fasteners, thereby improving ease of operation
3Device complexity
If a single fastening key is used to connect panels, then the device complexity is reduced, but the connection strength may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The recessed-key is nested within a channel formed by the interlocking fingers of the panel edges. This nesting arrangement distributes the connection load along the length of the key and across multiple contact points with the panel fingers, maintaining high connection strength while using only a single fastening element
Solution Approach 2:
The connection strength is enhanced by distributing forces across multiple dimensions: the key interacts with panel fingers along its length (longitudinal dimension), and the fingers provide lateral support (transverse dimension). This multi-dimensional force distribution compensates for using a single key instead of multiple fasteners
4Manufacturing precision
If panels are constrained to perpendicular orientation at the joint, then the manufacturing precision is simplified, but the adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The interlocking finger structure is designed to accommodate dynamic variations in panel orientation. While the joint itself maintains a fixed perpendicular relationship for structural integrity, the panels extending from the joint can be bent and shaped at various angles, allowing adaptability in overall panel configuration while preserving manufacturing simplicity at the connection point
Data Source
AI summary
The recessed-key panel interlocking device is intended to provide a mechanical joint that can connect two panels using a single fastening key. Accordingly, the device connects two panels by interlocking uniform gaps and fingers that have been formed on the edges of each panel, by a small cylindrical key that holds them together. To accomplish this, a channel that can hold the key is formed along the edge region of both panels when the panels are oriented normally to one another. Further, when the panels are interlocked, the key is completely recessed within the panel material. Furthermore, while the panel edges that form the joint must be uniformly rectilinear and meet at right angles at the joint itself, beyond the joint they can assume any shape and bend to any angle, so that parts joined by the joint do not have to be panel-shaped or perpendicular to each other overall.