Single Sheet Fastening Element for Modular Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening elements for modular surfaces require significant material and are impractical due to the need for additional connectors like screws or nails, making them time-consuming to assemble and aesthetically unattractive, especially when trying to maintain narrow spaces between boards.
Innovation Solution
A fastening element formed from a single sheet of material with a central section connecting the board engaging section and the support profile engaging section, allowing locking without additional fixation means, and enabling rotation to secure or release the element, accommodating misaligned boards and minimizing material usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional fastening elements with additional connectors (screws, bolts, nails) are used, then the fastening element can be structurally simple, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and requires access space that compromises aesthetic appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the fastening function and the connector function into a single integrated fastening element. The element includes a fastening part for attaching to the board and a connector part with engagement elements that directly connect to the support profile, eliminating the need for separate screws or nails and enabling tool-free assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening element is designed to be self-assembling through its own structural features. The engagement elements on the connector part automatically engage with the support profile when the element is inserted, allowing the product to fasten itself without requiring external tools or additional connectors
2Reliability
If additional connectors are used to fasten boards, then the fastening is reliable, but access space of at least 6mm is required which creates aesthetic issues and may require additional covering products
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening function and connector function are merged into one element, allowing the connector part to extend through the board and directly engage the support profile without requiring additional access space. This integration enables reliable fastening while maintaining narrow aesthetic gaps between boards
3Reliability
If a double-flange T-type fastening element is used, then the fastening capability is improved, but significant material is required increasing cost and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening element is segmented into distinct functional parts: a fastening part with flanges for board attachment and a connector part for support profile connection. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function while using minimal material, replacing the bulky double-flange T-type structure
Solution Approach 2:
The element applies local quality by providing flanges only where board engagement is needed and a connector part only where support profile connection is required. This localized functionality eliminates unnecessary material while maintaining fastening capability
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 solution reduces material consumption, simplifies assembly, allows for quick correction of installation mistakes, and maintains a visually appealing narrow spacing between boards without the need for additional connectors, while being easily recyclable and manufacturable.
Implementation Method 1
In the first orientation the fastening element can be aligned with the channel opening extending in a first direction and rotated around a second direction perpendicular to the first direction to lock the fastening element to the support profile
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~2B
Figure 2C~2E
AI summary
A fastening element for fastening boards to a support profile to form a modular surface, the fastening element comprising a central section, a board engaging section, and a support profile engaging section. The central section is formed of a single sheet of material and connects the support profile engaging section to the board engaging section, the board engaging section comprises at least two flanges extending in opposite directions with respect to the central section, each of the flanges configured to enter within a groove provided in a lateral surface of a board, and the support profile engaging section is configured to pass through a channel opening in a support profile in a first orientation and to lock the fastening element to the support profile upon rotating the fastening element to a second orientation. The invention further relates to a modular surface such as a floor, wall, or ceiling comprising boards fastened to support profiles using the fastening element.