Rotatable Connector Assembly with Interlocking Protrusions and Slots

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing assemblies for mechanically connecting and detaching components, such as those in an inflatable lounge, are often overly complex or prone to unwanted detachment.

Innovation Solution

A rotatable connector assembly comprising a first connector member with radially extending protrusions and a second connector member with a perimetral rim and slots, allowing for secure attachment and adjustable rotation while ensuring easy detachment by aligning protrusions with slots and pulling apart.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If existing assemblies are used to mechanically connect components, then connection strength is achieved, but device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidassembly complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is divided into two separate members: a first connector member with protrusions and a second connector member with slots. This segmentation allows for a simpler overall design while maintaining strong connection through the interlocking geometry of the protrusions and slots.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The protrusions of the first connector member are received within the slots of the second connector member, creating a nested interlocking structure. This nesting provides secure mechanical connection while keeping the individual components simple in design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Ease of operation

If existing assemblies are designed to be easily attachable, then ease of operation improves, but reliability deteriorates due to unwanted detachment

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of attachmentVSAvoidresistance to unwanted detachment

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connector members feature asymmetric geometry where the protrusions must align with and fit into specific slot orientations. This asymmetry prevents accidental detachment while maintaining ease of intentional attachment, as the components can only connect in the correct oriented position.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

3Reliability

If fixed connection assemblies are used, then reliability improves, but adaptability deteriorates due to inability to adjust orientation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidrotation adjustability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The connector assembly transitions from a fixed rigid connection to a dynamic system that allows rotation. The interlocking protrusions and slots maintain reliable connection while permitting rotational movement, enabling the connected components (such as inflatable lounge parts) to be adjusted to different orientations as needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9719541B2Rotatable connector assembly

Publication Date: 2017.08.01 AQUA LEISURE RECREATION LLC

AI summary

This invention relates to a rotatable connector assembly, also referred to as a two-part connector assembly that allows connection of one object or member bearing one part of the assembly to another object or member bearing the other part of the assembly, and further allows rotation of the members with respect to each other in a plane parallel to the plane of the assembled connector, assures that the two connector members remain attached under load and shear forces, and permits ready detachment of the connector members from each other.