Snap-Fit Modular Frame Connectors for Fast Relocatable Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modular construction systems face challenges in being readily constructed and removed without causing damage to permanent buildings, while maintaining precision and versatility, especially when they need to be free-standing and relocatable without anchoring to walls or ceilings.
Innovation Solution
A quick attachment system featuring connector portions with protrusions and detents on channel members that allow for snap-fit connections and rotatable securement, enabling efficient assembly and disassembly of modular frame units without external fasteners, and allowing for the creation of free-standing structures that can be easily relocated.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If modular construction systems use traditional fastening methods, then structural strength is improved, but assembly time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional segments: a receptacle portion receiving the protrusion, a detent mechanism for positioning, and a separate fastening interface. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, enabling quick assembly while maintaining structural integrity through dedicated connection zones.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector acts as an intermediary element between channel members, providing a standardized interface that simplifies the connection process. The receptacle and detent structures serve as mediating mechanisms that guide alignment and secure the connection, reducing the time and complexity of direct member-to-member fastening.
2Reliability
If modular construction systems use complex connector designs, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple connection functions are merged into a single integrated connector component. The receptacle, detent mechanism, and fastening interface are combined in one piece that attaches to the channel member, providing reliable multi-functional connection without requiring multiple separate components or complex assembly steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design provides universal applicability across different channel member configurations. The standardized receptacle and detent structures can accommodate various protrusion types and positions, enabling the same connector design to serve multiple connection purposes while maintaining consistent reliability.
3Productivity
If modular construction systems are designed for quick assembly, then productivity is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is pre-configured with built-in alignment features including the receptacle geometry and detent structures that automatically guide the protrusion into the correct position during assembly. This preliminary positioning action eliminates the need for manual alignment adjustments, enabling quick assembly while maintaining precise connection geometry through the pre-designed mechanical guidance.
4Stability of the object's composition
If modular construction systems use permanent fastening methods, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from static permanent fastening to a dynamic reversible connection. The detent mechanism allows the connector to maintain a stable locked position during use, providing structural stability, while enabling controlled release and repositioning when relocation is needed, thus achieving both stability and adaptability through a single mechanistic design.
Data Source
AI summary
A quick attachment system is disclosed. A first connector portion is defined along a surface of the first member and a second connector portion is defined along a surface of the second member. The first connector portion comprises a protrusion of the surface of the first member. The second connector portion comprises a detent of the surface of the second member. The first and second connector portions may mate with and engage one another to secure the first member against the second member. A modular frame unit comprises first and second channel members defining first connector portions along lengths thereof and a joinder channel member defining second connector portions along a length thereof. Each of the second connector portions is configured to mate with one of the first connector portions to join the joinder channel member with the first and second channel members.