Quick Connection System Using Rolling Ball Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick connection and fastening systems lack reliability and are not suitable for small spaces, often compromising on functionality, aesthetics, or ease of assembly, and fail to meet all necessary requirements simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A quick connection and fastening system utilizing rolling means with inclined surfaces and magnetic holding elements that allow secure translation between connection and disconnection configurations, ensuring stability and ease of use while being compact and economical to produce.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional coupling systems with screws and dowels are used, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity and ease of assembly deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, dowels, clips) with a rolling ball mechanism that uses inclined surfaces and magnetic forces. The rolling ball, when inserted, automatically rolls down the inclined surface to engage with the retaining groove, creating a secure connection without requiring complex mechanical assembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is designed to be self-aligning and self-securing. The rolling ball mechanism automatically finds its engagement position on the inclined surface and locks into the retaining groove without external intervention. The system also provides automatic disconnection when the rolling ball is removed, eliminating the need for tools or complex disassembly procedures.
2Volume of moving object
If compact connection systems are used for small spaces, then device size is reduced, but connection reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a spherical rolling ball as the core connection element. The spherical shape allows the ball to roll smoothly along the inclined surface and engage reliably with the retaining groove. This curved geometry provides inherent stability and ensures consistent contact forces, maintaining connection reliability while keeping the overall system compact.
Solution Approach 2:
The rolling ball acts as an intermediary element between the first and second components. This intermediate spherical element mediates the connection by translating linear insertion motion into rotational rolling motion, which then engages with the retaining groove. This intermediary mechanism allows for a compact design while ensuring reliable connection through the ball's spherical geometry and rolling action.
3Ease of operation
If quick release mechanisms are added to improve ease of disconnection, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the disconnection function to the simplest possible form: removal of the rolling ball. By separating the connection function (rolling ball engagement with retaining groove) from the disconnection function (ball removal), the system achieves quick release capability without adding complex release mechanisms. The rolling ball can be easily removed by hand, providing instant disconnection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides self-service for both connection and disconnection operations. Connection is achieved by simply inserting the rolling ball, which automatically rolls into engagement. Disconnection is achieved by removing the rolling ball, which automatically disengages the components. No additional release levers, buttons, or mechanisms are required.
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 system provides a reliable, compact, and cost-effective solution for connecting elements, ensuring safety and ease of assembly, while maintaining aesthetic appeal and functionality, suitable for various applications including furniture and shelving systems.
Implementation Method 1
rolling means, the first component comprising a first rolling surface for the rolling means and the terminal portion of the second component comprising a second rolling surface for the rolling means; the rolling means being suited to counteract the translation of the terminal portion of the second component towards the configuration of disconnection of the system
Implementation Method 2
the system being such that the second rolling surface is configured in such a way that, in the connection configuration, the distance between the second rolling surface and the first rolling surface increases along the direction of translation of the terminal portion that leads to the configuration of disconnection of the system
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~3C
Figure 3D~3E
AI summary
The present invention provides a quick connection and/or fastening system suited to bring a first element (P) and a second element (S) to a first configuration of connection and to a second configuration of disconnection; the system comprising a first component (10) and a second component (20) suited to be respectively mounted on the first and on the second element (P, S), the first and the second component (10, 20) being furthermore suited to be brought to a first configuration of connection and to a second configuration of disconnection, in such a way as to alternatively allow the mutual connection and disconnection of the first and of the second element (P, S). The first component (10) is suited to house a terminal portion (21) of the second component (20) in such a way as to allow it to translate inside it. The system comprises rolling means (22). The first component (10) comprises a first rolling surface (12a) for the rolling means (22) and the terminal portion (21) of the second component (20) comprises a second rolling surface (21a) for the rolling means (22). The rolling means (22) are suited to counteract the translation of the terminal portion (21) of the second component (20) towards the configuration of disconnection of the system and are suited to be set rotating in a first direction of rotation by the translation of the terminal portion (21) of the second component (20) in order to reach the configuration of connection of the system, and suited to be set rotating in a second direction of rotation, contrary to the first direction of rotation, by the translation of the terminal portion (21) of the second component (20) in order to achieve the configuration of disconnection of the system. The system is such that the second rolling surface (21a) is configured in such a way that, in the configuration of connection, the distance between the second rolling surface (21a) and the first rolling surface (12a) increases along the direction of translation of the terminal portion (21) that leads to the configuration of disconnection of the system.