Rotating Flange Connector for Rapid Water Barrier Module Joining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current water barrier module systems face challenges in rapidly and securely attaching extension modules to protective modules, particularly in terms of strength and ease of assembly, which can lead to inefficient and time-consuming assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A water barrier module system featuring side flanges with elongated openings and a connection device that rotates from an inserting position to a connecting position, allowing for easy and rapid attachment of protective modules by extending through the openings, providing a robust and cost-efficient solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If screws and nuts are used to attach extension modules to protective modules, then connection strength is improved, but assembly time increases and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is segmented into distinct functional portions: a first portion that inserts through the elongated opening, a second portion that engages with the protective module, and an intermediate portion that connects them. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function efficiently, enabling rapid assembly while maintaining strong connections without requiring multiple fastening operations like traditional screws and nuts
Solution Approach 2:
The connection device incorporates dynamic engagement mechanisms where the first portion can be inserted through the elongated opening and then locked into position through rotational or sliding motion. This dynamic action transforms a multi-step fastening process into a single rapid motion, significantly reducing assembly time while maintaining connection strength
2Strength
If screws and nuts are used to attach extension modules to protective modules, then connection strength is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device merges multiple fastening functions into a single integrated component. Instead of requiring separate screws, nuts, and washers, the invention combines these functions into one device with a first portion, second portion, and intermediate portion that work together to achieve secure attachment, thereby reducing assembly complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The connection device is designed with universal applicability to attach protective modules and extension modules through various configuration scenarios. The elongated opening and multi-portion design allow it to function in different orientations and positions, eliminating the need for multiple specialized fasteners and simplifying the overall assembly process
3Productivity
If a connection device extends through elongated openings to connect side flanges, then assembly speed is improved, but connection strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device utilizes the elongated opening's length dimension to enable rotational or sliding motion that transforms the connection from a simple passage to a locked engagement. By exploiting the dimensional space provided by the elongated opening, the device achieves both rapid insertion and secure locking, maintaining connection strength while improving assembly speed
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a water barrier module system comprising a first (10) and a second (20) protective module configured to form at least a part of a water barrier. Each protective module comprises a side flange (12, 22) extending substantially perpendicular to a main plane and having an outer surface (18, 28) and an inner surface (16, 26). Each of the side flanges comprises at least one elongated opening (14, 24) having a width (W2) and a length (L2), wherein the length is larger than the width. A connection device (30) is configured to, in a connecting position, connect the side flanges (12, 22) by extending through the elongated openings when the outer surfaces of the two side flanges are arranged to each other. The connection device (30) comprises a first portion (31) configured to abut the inner surface of the first side flange, and a second portion (32) configured to abut the inner surface of the second side flange. The first portion (31) of the connection device has a width (W3) that is smaller or equal to the width (W2) of the elongated openings (14, 24) and a length (L3) that is larger than the width (W2) of the elongated openings and smaller than or equal to the length (L2) of the elongated openings.