Modular construction system, coupling element, object, tool and packaging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing modular construction system using resilient strips for locking the coupling element is prone to quick breakage, leading to instability and reduced durability.
Innovation Solution
The system integrates resiliently movable tongues with locking cams, providing locking in both axial and rotational directions, reducing the likelihood of breakage and simplifying manufacturing, while allowing for easier assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If resilient strips are used for locking the coupling element, then locking function is provided, but the resilient strips break off quickly reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locking cam and resilient tongue into a single integrated coupling element. The locking cam is formed as one piece with the resilient tongue, eliminating the need for separate resilient strips that were prone to breakage. This integration strengthens the locking mechanism while maintaining the resilient locking function.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling element is made from a resilient material that combines flexibility with strength. The material properties allow the tongue to deform elastically for locking while the integrated cam structure provides mechanical strength to prevent breakage, creating a composite-like performance within a single component.
2Reliability
If separate resilient strips and locking cams are used, then locking function is achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking cam and resilient tongue are merged into a single monolithic coupling element. This reduces the number of separate components from multiple parts (strips and cams) to one integrated piece, simplifying both the device structure and manufacturing processes while maintaining the dual locking functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The single coupling element performs multiple functions: the resilient tongue provides elastic deformation for locking engagement, while the integrated locking cam provides the mechanical locking profile. This multi-functionality within one component reduces overall system complexity.
3Reliability
If multiple separate locking elements are used, then locking reliability is improved, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the locking cam and resilient tongue into one piece, the assembly process is simplified. The coupling element is inserted as a single component and automatically locks through the integrated mechanism, eliminating the need to separately assemble multiple locking elements while maintaining reliable locking stability.
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 solution enhances the stability and durability of the modular construction system by reducing the risk of locking elements breaking off, improving the overall structural integrity and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
which body is provided with at least one resiliently movable tongue extending therefrom, to which tongue the locking cam is connected, wherein the at least one tongue is movable inward by a force being exerted thereon
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The invention relates to a modular construction system comprising at least one object and a coupling element releasably connectable to the object, wherein: the object comprises at least one surface with at least one opening, which opening comprises a number of inward extending lips arranged distributed over the periphery of the opening; the coupling element comprises a body with an axial axis arrangeable in the opening, which body is provided along its outer periphery with at least one outward extending locking cam; wherein the coupling element is arrangeable in at least one arranging orientation in the opening of the object, and is rotatable in the opening relative to the object to at least one locking orientation, in which locking orientation the coupling element is locked in an axial direction and a rotational direction. The invention also relates to a coupling element, object and tool intended and configured to form part of such a modular construction system. External elements such as a skin plate, a fabric, a cord or the like can be attached to a structure according to the invention by means of an attaching element with a shank and a widened head, which shank can be inserted releasably into a continuous opening of a coupling element.