Single-Element Rotational Fastening for Railing-to-Drawer Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for attaching a railing to a drawer or furniture component are complex and require multiple components, making the process cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A fastening device with a dowel element featuring a cutting dowel section and an anchoring section that can be anchored in a second component by rotating, using cutting means to create a secure attachment with a single fastening element, allowing for simple installation by hammering into a railing tube or drilling into a panel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If multiple fastening components are used to attach a railing to a drawer, then the connection strength is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fastening functions into a single integrated fastening element. This element includes an anchoring section with cutting means for securing to the drawer, a dowel section for insertion into the railing, and a connection section linking both sections. This merging eliminates the need for separate anchoring devices, dowels, and connection pieces, thereby reducing component count while maintaining strong connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The single fastening element performs multiple functions: it anchors to the drawer front through cutting means, connects to the railing tube through the dowel section, and provides structural linkage through the connection section. This multi-functional design replaces what previously required multiple specialized components, simplifying the overall attachment system.
2Reliability
If a complex fastening system is used to ensure secure attachment, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening element is segmented into distinct functional sections (anchoring section with cutting means, dowel section, connection section), each optimized for its specific task. The cutting means feature sharp edges for reliable material engagement, the dowel section provides precise fit into the railing, and the connection section ensures structural integrity. This segmentation allows each part to perform its function effectively while the entire assembly remains a single installable unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The cutting means on the anchoring section automatically cut into the drawer front material when the fastening element is inserted and rotated, creating its own anchoring position without requiring pre-drilled holes or additional machining. This self-service capability simplifies installation while ensuring reliable attachment.
3Strength
If traditional anchoring methods are used for hard materials like metal or stone, then the anchoring strength is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cutting means are pre-configured on the anchoring section with sharp cutting edges oriented to engage the material upon insertion. The geometry of the cutting means is designed in advance to effectively cut into hard materials like metal or stone, eliminating the need for precise pre-prepared openings and reducing manufacturing precision requirements for the installation process.
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
This solution simplifies the attachment process by requiring only a single fastening element and ensures a firm connection with minimal rotation, suitable for various materials including metal or stone, and provides a secure anchoring mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
cutting means (8) are attached to the anchoring section (8), so that the anchoring section is anchored in the second component (1) by a cutting process
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2c
AI summary
The fastening device has a dowel element (5) having a dowel portion (4) and an anchoring portion (8). The anchoring portion is inserted into a hole (12) of the front panel (1) of drawer. The rail (2) is rotated together with the anchoring portion at a predetermined angle with respect to the front panel of drawer, so that the rail is attached to front panel of drawer.