Self-Locking Metal Framing Connectors for Fastener-Free Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing metal framing systems face challenges in assembling and constructing horizontal and diagonal bracing between support framing members without using fasteners, which complicates insulation installation and energy efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The development of self-locking fixed or sliding connections between spacer braces and support members using various shaped connectors, notches, ledges, tabs, and notch-tabs, allowing for secure interlocking without the need for fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional metal framing members (C channels) are used with protruding lips and flanges, then structural strength is maintained, but connection difficulty and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The framing system is divided into distinct components: support members with recesses and bracing members with protrusions. This segmentation allows each component to have optimized geometry for its specific function, with the recess-protrusion interface enabling simple connections without compromising overall structural strength.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having protruding elements that need to be fitted into recesses (traditional approach), the invention inverts the configuration by providing recesses in the support members and protrusions in the bracing members. This inversion simplifies the connection process while maintaining structural integrity.
2Stability of the object's composition
If bracing members are installed between support members for structural strength, then stability improves, but insulation installation difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection function is extracted from the main body of the support members and implemented through dedicated recess-protrusion interfaces. This extraction creates clear separation between structural connection elements and insulation spaces, allowing insulation to be installed without interference from connection hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The recess-protrusion interface acts as an intermediary mechanism that provides structural connection while maintaining clear pathways for insulation installation. The geometry of the recesses and protrusions is designed to guide insulation placement while securing the bracing members.
3Productivity
If self-locking connections without fasteners are implemented, then assembly speed and labor efficiency improve, but connection reliability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system incorporates dynamic elements including spring-loaded protrusions and flexible tabs that can deform during assembly and then lock into place. This dynamic behavior allows for simple insertion followed by automatic self-locking, achieving both fast assembly and reliable connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism is designed to be self-securing through interlocking recesses and protrusions that automatically lock without external fasteners. The geometry and material properties of the components enable self-alignment and self-locking, eliminating the need for additional fastening operations while ensuring connection reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to metal framed wall components with self-locking fixed and sliding connections between support members and crossing connecting members without using fasteners to connect the two crossing metal framing members together. Different variations of the shapes of the connecting members as well as the location and shape of the notches, ledges, tabs and notched-tabs are used between the members at the holes, punch-outs or indentations all determine the self-locking connections.