Reconnectable Latching Connection for Floor Covering Maintenance
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing floor, wall, and ceiling covering systems require complete replacement to clean substructures of accumulated dirt and debris, as traditional latching connections are not detachable, leading to inefficiencies and material waste.
Innovation Solution
A nondestructively detachable and re-connectable latching connection system allows covering elements to be easily removed and re-fastened, enabling cleaning of substructures without full replacement, using snap-action or magnetic connections with elastically deformable latching heads and receptacles for easy engagement and disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If traditional latching connections are used to fasten covering elements to substructure, then the covering element is securely fastened, but the connection cannot be detached and must be completely replaced for cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The latching connection is divided into separate components: a latching element on the covering element and a latching receptacle on the substructure. This segmentation allows the covering element to be detached and reattached without damaging the substructure, enabling maintenance while preserving the secure fastening function.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching connection transitions from a static permanent fastening to a dynamic reversible connection. The latching element can be inserted into and removed from the receptacle, allowing the system to adapt between secure fastening during use and easy detachment for cleaning, maintaining both reliability and ease of repair.
2Productivity
If covering elements are fastened with traditional connections, then assembly is simple, but complete replacement is required for maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the connection system into detachable latching elements and receptacles, the patent enables selective replacement of only the covering elements rather than the entire floor covering system, significantly reducing maintenance time and improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching receptacle remains permanently installed in the substructure and is recovered/reused, while only the covering elements with their latching elements are discarded and replaced during maintenance, reducing material waste and time loss.
3Ease of operation
If nondestructively detachable latching connection is used, then covering element can be removed for cleaning, but connection must be designed to allow detachment
Solution Approach 1:
The connection is segmented into simple, modular components that can be easily manufactured and assembled. The latching element and receptacle are designed as separate, straightforward mechanical features rather than complex integrated mechanisms, reducing design complexity while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching connection is designed to be self-aligning and self-latching, requiring minimal force and no special tools for detachment and reattachment. The geometric shape of the latching element and receptacle automatically guides assembly and ensures secure engagement, simplifying operation without requiring complex control mechanisms.
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
Facilitates easy maintenance by allowing multiple cleanings without damaging the system, enabling quick assembly and replacement of covering elements, and accommodating material expansion and contraction without stress.
Implementation Method 1
The latching connection is configured as a nondestructively detachable and re-connectable latching connection
Data Source
AI summary
An arrangement for forming a floor covering (1), wall covering or ceiling covering having a substructure (2) and at least one covering element (4) fastened to the substructure (2) by at least one latching connection (3), the latching connection (3) being configured as a nondestructively detachable and re-connectable latching connection (3) in order to take the covering element (4) off the substructure (3) and subsequently re-fasten the covering element (4) to the substructure (2).