Removable module with panels, panel and insert for mounting such an item of furniture

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current removable furniture assembly systems are difficult to assemble and disassemble, often requiring tools and resulting in worn-out parts that cannot be reused, limiting their versatility and functionality.

Innovation Solution

The design features panels with notches and removable inserts, allowing for tool-free assembly and disassembly, enabling the creation of various furniture pieces with different functions using the same panels by varying their configuration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional tools and fastening devices are used to assemble panels, then the furniture structure is secure, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes difficult and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of assembly and disassemblyVSAvoidtime required for assembly and disassembly
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening system is segmented into separate components: a fastening device with a retaining element and a corresponding receptacle. The retaining element can be independently inserted and removed from the receptacle, allowing quick assembly and disassembly without complex tools. This segmentation enables the panel and furniture component to be rapidly connected and disconnected.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The fastening function is extracted from the panel structure itself and implemented through a separate, removable fastening device. This allows the fastening mechanism to be independently manipulated - inserted when assembly is needed and removed when disassembly is required - significantly reducing the time and effort for both operations while maintaining structural security during use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Adaptability or versatility

If reusable fastening parts are used, then the furniture can be disassembled and reassembled multiple times, but the fastening device becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereusability of fastening partsVSAvoidcomplexity of fastening device
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening device is divided into simple, modular components: a retaining element and a receptacle. Each component has a straightforward geometry and function, avoiding complexity while enabling multiple assembly and disassembly cycles. The retaining element features a simple insertion geometry that engages with the receptacle, providing reusable fastening without complicated mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The fastening device is designed to be self-servicing through its simple insertable/removable retaining element. The component's own geometry enables it to be repeatedly inserted and removed without external tools or complex operations, achieving high reusability while maintaining structural integrity throughout multiple cycles.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If panels are designed for tool-free assembly, then the ease of operation improves, but the structural strength may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool-free assembly capabilityVSAvoidstructural strength of furniture
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The connection between panel and furniture component is segmented into a precise geometric interface consisting of the retaining element and receptacle. This segmented design allows for a large contact area and multiple engagement points that distribute mechanical loads effectively, providing strong structural connection while enabling tool-free assembly through simple insertion and engagement motions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP3050461B1Removable module with panels, panel and insert for mounting such an item of furniture
Publication Date: 2020.04.08 CHATAIGNON BRUNO JEAN MARIE
  • EP3050461B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3050461B1 patent drawingFigure 2~4
  • EP3050461B1 patent drawingFigure 5~8

AI summary

Removable insert (10), comprising two opposite tongues (27, 28) intended to be introduced into two longitudinal grooves of at least one notch in a panel of removable furniture, at least one orifice (29, 30) for receiving a pin (32), and a cover (31) pivotally mounted between an open position in which the pin (32) can be inserted into the insert (10) and the insert (10) can be inserted into said at least one notch, and a closed position in which the pin (32) is locked in the insert (10) and the cover (31) is introduced into two notches of said at least one notch to hold the insert (10).