Slab Bolster Connector with Resilient Locking Tab
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing slab bolster connection mechanisms lack a secure and simple method to join multiple bolster elements linearly, often resulting in unintentional decoupling under tensile and flexural loads.
Innovation Solution
A slab bolster system featuring a male connector with a rigid insertion body and a complementary female connector with resilient locking tabs, allowing for secure engagement and resistance to decoupling, utilizing a locking groove and tab mechanism for robust coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional connection mechanisms are used to join slab bolster elements, then the bolsters can be connected together, but the connection is not secure and results in unintentional decoupling under tensile and flexural loads
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system employs resilient locking tabs that can dynamically deflect during assembly and then lock into place, providing both ease of connection and secure locking. The tabs flex to accommodate insertion and then resist decoupling forces, transforming a static connection into a dynamic, adaptive joint.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking tabs change their physical state from undeflected to deflected during the connection process. This parameter change allows the tabs to move from a neutral state to an engaged state where they mechanically interlock with the insertion body, providing secure connection without complex fastening mechanisms.
2Reliability
If traditional connection mechanisms are used, then assembly may be simple, but the connection resists decoupling poorly under load
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient locking tabs automatically engage with the insertion body through their own elasticity, without requiring additional fastening operations or complex assembly steps. The tabs self-lock into place through their deflection and recovery, providing secure connection through self-service rather than requiring operator intervention for locking.
3Reliability
If more material is used in the connector system, then connection security improves, but material usage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking tabs are constructed as thin, flexible elements that derive their strength and locking capability from their elasticity rather than from substantial material volume. This allows the connector to provide secure connection while using minimal material, as the tabs' flexural properties enable them to lock effectively without requiring thick or bulky construction.
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 provides a robust and secure connection between slab bolster elements, minimizing the probability of inadvertent decoupling under various loads, while maintaining ease of assembly and using minimal material for construction.
Implementation Method 1
a first resiliently deflectable locking tab that engages with, and locks into, the locking groove of the insertion body
Data Source
AI summary
A slab bolster element includes a frame member having a male connector at a first end and a female connector at an opposite second end. The male connector includes a substantially solid insertion body with a surface having a transverse locking groove. The female connector includes a receptacle body configured to receive the insertion body of a complementary male connector, and a resiliently flexible locking tab positioned and configured to resiliently deflect to allow the insertion of the insertion body of another slab bolster element into the receptacle body, and to resiliently engage with the transverse locking groove of the insertion body when the insertion body is received within the receptacle body. The resiliently flexible locking tabs can be oriented any direction to mate with similarly shaped male connectors, and material can be strategically removed from standoffs and connectors to minimize the use of materials.