Sliding Track Connector With Twist-Lock Cap for Secure Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing track systems lack a sliding connector that can be selectively locked in a fixed position using twist or zip ties, which limits the flexibility and security of attaching objects to elongated hollow track members.
Innovation Solution
A sliding track connector with a cubed or cylindrical body and a rotating cap that fits into a longitudinally aligned slot, allowing for secure attachment by wedging the cap under the flanges of the track member, and optional screw mechanisms for additional locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a threaded bolt with wide head and nut is used to attach structures to track members, then secure attachment is achieved, but the attachment process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into separate functional components: the track connector with integrated slot engagement features, and the twist tie as a separate fastening element. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, simplifying the overall attachment process while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex threaded bolt and nut mechanism is extracted and replaced with a simpler twist tie fastening system. The essential function of secure attachment is retained through the twist tie's twisting action, while eliminating the complexity of threading and nut assembly.
2Reliability
If a threaded bolt with wide head and nut is used to attach structures to track members, then secure attachment is achieved, but the installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The track connector is pre-formed with the slot engagement features and cap structure already integrated into the body. This preliminary preparation allows the connector to be simply slid onto the track member and locked in place with a twist tie, eliminating the time-consuming steps of threading bolts and assembling nuts during installation.
3Reliability
If the cap is rotated 90 degrees to lock the connector in place, then secure positioning is achieved, but the initial insertion becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The cap is designed to transition from a dynamic insertion state to a fixed locked state. During insertion, the cap can be easily positioned at any angle. Once in place, rotating the cap 90 degrees engages the locking mechanism where the cap's sides contact the flanges, providing secure positioning. This dynamic design allows easy insertion followed by simple rotational locking.
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
Enables flexible positioning and secure attachment of objects to track members by allowing the sliding connector to be locked in place, enhancing usability and stability with twist or zip ties.
Implementation Method 1
When the user axially rotates the body 90 degrees, the shape of the cap is configured so that the end sections of the cap extend under the flanges on opposite sides of the slot. The gap between the top of the cap and the bottom surface of the body is sufficiently small so that the end sections of the cap are wedged tightly against the inside surfaces of the flanges to hold the body in a fixed location on the track member.
Data Source
AI summary
A sliding track connector for mounting objects to a track member using a twist or zip ties. The connector includes a body with a bottom surface, outer sidewalls, a center void, and a plurality of transversely aligned holes. In one embodiment, a post extends downward from the body's bottom surface and slides freely inside the slot formed on the track member. Attached to the post is a wide cap that, when twisted, presses against the inside surfaces of the flanges formed on opposite sides of the slot. In one embodiment, the post and cap are integrally formed on the body so that when the body is rotated, the post rotates inside the channel, and the cap becomes wedged against the flanges on opposite sides of the slot. One or two twist ties are inserted through the holes on the body to hold an object on the track member.