Rotatable Post Connector Assembly for Reusable Structural Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods of connecting structural members, such as welding, are time-consuming, require skilled labor, and result in non-reusable components, while existing couplings are cumbersome and prone to errors and loss of parts.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly with a base, rotatable socket members, and a locking mechanism that allows easy adjustment and secure fixation of posts, enabling single-user assembly and disassembly, even on uneven ground.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If welding is used to connect structural members, then a secure and rigid connection is achieved, but assembly and disassembly become time-consuming and require skilled labor and specialist equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate modular components: a base plate, a connector assembly with locking member, and the post itself. These segments can be independently manufactured and assembled through simple mechanical insertion and locking actions, eliminating the need for complex welding processes while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the thermal welding process with a mechanical locking system. The locking member engages with the base plate and post through purely mechanical interaction (insertion, rotation, and locking), substituting the complex thermal field of welding with a simple mechanical field that is easier to assemble and disassemble.
2Strength
If welding is used to connect structural members, then a secure connection is achieved, but the components cannot be easily reused after disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate modular components: a base plate, a connector assembly with locking member, and the post itself. These segments can be independently manufactured and assembled through simple mechanical insertion and locking actions, eliminating the need for complex welding processes while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly is designed as a reusable component that can be detached and stored for future use. The locking member and base plate can be recovered and reused multiple times without degradation, unlike welded connections where components are consumed or require costly restoration after disassembly.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional couplings are used to connect structural members, then disassembly and re-use are enabled, but the assembly process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate and locking member are pre-assembled as a single unit before field installation. This preliminary assembly eliminates the need for workers to handle and assemble multiple separate components during installation, significantly reducing on-site assembly time while maintaining the capability for easy disassembly and re-use.
Solution Approach 2:
The base plate and locking member are merged into a single integrated assembly that functions as one unit. This combination reduces the number of parts that need to be handled, carried, and assembled during installation, making the process simpler and faster while preserving the disassembly and re-use capability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If traditional couplings are used to connect structural members, then disassembly and re-use are enabled, but the connection becomes insecure if parts are not aligned properly
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate and locking member are pre-assembled as a single unit before field installation. This preliminary assembly ensures proper alignment and secure engagement are achieved during manufacturing under controlled conditions, eliminating alignment issues that occur during field assembly while maintaining disassembly and re-use capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member is designed to automatically engage and lock when the post is inserted into the base plate. The self-locking mechanism ensures secure connection without requiring precise manual alignment or additional adjustment, improving reliability while maintaining ease of assembly and disassembly.
5Adaptability or versatility
If fittings or couplings are used to connect structural members, then reusability is achieved, but fixing members tend to get lost and damaged over time
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate and locking member are merged into a single integrated assembly that functions as one unit. This combination eliminates the risk of losing separate fixing members, as the locking mechanism is built-in and cannot be detached or lost during use, while preserving full reusability of the entire connector assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly receives and releasably fixes a post. The connector assembly has: a base defining a first socket member; a second socket member configured to be in an abutting relationship with, and rotatable relative to, the first socket member of the base, the second socket member having a recess for receiving at least part of the post, in use; and a locking member configured to releasably couple with the base. The locking member is movable between: a first position in which the second socket member is rotatable relative to the first socket member; and a second position in which the locking member is configured to apply a locking force to the second socket member to prevent rotation of the second socket member relative to the first socket member.