Self-Latching Joint Structure for Automatic Suspended Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated construction methods require high initial investment and retraining of technicians, necessitating a cost-effective and efficient joint structure for assembly that reduces labor costs and assembly time.
Innovation Solution
A joint structure comprising latching members with specific convex and concave portions that allow for automatic assembly using the weight and rotation of suspended objects, enabling crane trucks to assemble suspended objects without additional manpower or equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated construction methods are implemented, then construction speed and quality are improved, but initial investment costs and retraining requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The joint structure enables self-alignment and self-latching through its geometric design. The first and second latching members automatically engage with each other when brought into proximity, with the first convex portion fitting into the concave portion formed by the second convex and third convex portions. This eliminates the need for complex automated positioning systems or additional calibration equipment, allowing standard crane trucks to perform the assembly without modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs specific curvature rates in the geometric features of the latching members. The headend includes a circular side with a third curvature rate that is larger than the first curvature rate of the first convex portion. These parameter variations create the self-aligning mechanism that enables automatic engagement, simplifying the overall system while maintaining high assembly speed.
2Ease of operation
If traditional manual assembly methods are used, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but labor costs and assembly time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The latching members are pre-configured with complementary geometric features (convex and concave portions with specific curvature rates) that enable automatic engagement. This preliminary design of the joint structure allows suspended objects to self-align and connect rapidly when brought into proximity, eliminating time-consuming manual alignment procedures while maintaining operational simplicity.
3Manufacturing precision
If complex automated assembly equipment is introduced, then assembly precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The joint structure employs asymmetric geometric features with different curvature rates. The headend's circular side has a third curvature rate larger than the first curvature rate of the first convex portion, creating a self-aligning mechanism that guides precise engagement without requiring complex positioning equipment. The asymmetric design ensures accurate alignment through the interaction of convex and concave portions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes curved surfaces with specific curvature rates to achieve precise automatic alignment. The circular side of the headend and the arc-shaped convex portions create a geometric relationship that naturally guides the latching members into correct alignment during engagement, eliminating the need for complex automated positioning systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A joint structure installed in the physical structure is provided. The joint structure includes a first latching member and a second latching member. The first latching member includes a first main body, a head portion extending from the first main body and a first convex portion extending from the first main body. The second latching member includes a second main body, a second convex portion extending from the second main body and a third convex portion extending from the second main body. When the first latching member and the second latching member are in an assembling status, the first convex portion slides between the second convex portion and the third convex portion.