U-Shaped Scaffolding Coupling Clip With Gravity Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing scaffolding frame element connection systems require multiple components and complex manipulations, leading to inefficiencies in assembly speed and security.
Innovation Solution
A U-shaped coupling pin clip with a tilting finger that self-secures by gravitational force, allowing a single element to connect two scaffolding frame elements, reducing the number of required components and simplifying the assembly process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional coupling pins with cotter pins are used to connect scaffolding frame elements, then the connection is secure, but the assembly process requires multiple components and complex manipulations reducing assembly speed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (coupling pin, aligning holes, cotter pins) into a single integrated coupling element. The U-shaped profile with legs and tilting finger creates one piece that performs alignment, connection, and locking functions simultaneously, eliminating the need for multiple separate operations during assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The tilting finger automatically secures itself through gravitational force after insertion. The finger tilts during insertion and then self-locks in place without requiring additional components like cotter pins or manual securing operations, making the assembly process self-completing and significantly faster
2Reliability
If coupling pins with aligning holes and cotter pins are used, then the connection is reliable, but the number of components increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the coupling pin body, alignment features, and locking mechanism into a single U-shaped component. The legs of the U-profile serve as alignment features while the tilting finger provides automatic locking, eliminating the need for separate aligning holes and cotter pins
Solution Approach 2:
The single coupling element performs multiple functions simultaneously: the U-shaped legs provide alignment and positioning, the body connects the scaffolding elements, and the tilting finger provides automatic securing. This multi-functional design replaces what previously required three or more separate components
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 coupling pin clip significantly increases assembly speed and reliability while reducing the number of components needed, providing a more economical and efficient connection system for scaffolding elements.
Implementation Method 1
The length of the tilting finger is selected to be at least large enough that it cannot flip over within the tube and get jammed as a result
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling pin clip for a coupling piece for the connection of two components that are inserted between them. To affix the insertable coupling at the ends of the coupling piece, a pin is insertable both through a hole of the component and through a hole of the coupling piece. The coupling pin clip is U-shaped, the legs of which have a distance from each other that corresponds to the distance of the two holes in the coupling piece. Furthermore, the coupling pin clip comprises a tipping finger articulated at one end of the coupling pin clip.