Snap-In Connector Bracket for Modular Wall Panel Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modular wall and partition systems face challenges with expensive, bulky, and difficult-to-assemble connection hardware that also compromise aesthetics, limiting flexibility and ease of reconfiguration in office spaces.
Innovation Solution
The development of connector brackets with mounting plates and angled receiving portions featuring hook-like protrusions that accommodate a coupling connector, allowing for quick, easy, and aesthetically pleasing connections between panels and wall modules, enabling flexible angulation and snap-in connections without the need for bulky posts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional connection hardware is used to connect panels, then structural strength is ensured, but the hardware becomes expensive, bulky, and difficult to assemble
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate functional components: a mounting plate that attaches to the panel, receiving portions with hook-like protrusions that engage the coupling connector, and a separate coupling connector piece. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, simplifying manufacturing and assembly while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling connector acts as an intermediary element that bridges two mounting plates on adjacent panels. Rather than using complex direct connection hardware, the simple coupling connector piece engages with the receiving portions, providing a straightforward connection mechanism that is both strong and easy to assemble.
2Stability of the object's composition
If traditional connection hardware is used to connect panels, then structural stability is achieved, but aesthetics are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The bulky, unsightly traditional connection hardware is extracted and replaced with a minimalistic connection system. The coupling connector and receiving portions are designed to be compact and unobtrusive, maintaining structural stability while significantly improving the aesthetic appearance of the panel connections.
3Stability of the object's composition
If modular wall systems use rigid attachment to support structures, then stability is improved, but reconfiguration flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from rigid permanent attachment to a dynamic, easily adjustable connection. The coupling connector can be readily installed and removed, allowing wall panels to be reconfigured while maintaining stability during use. The hook-like protrusions provide secure engagement that can be easily disengaged when reconfiguration is needed.
4Strength
If complex connection hardware is used, then connection strength is ensured, but assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving portions with hook-like protrusions are designed to self-align and self-engage with the coupling connector. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for complex alignment procedures or specialized assembly tools, reducing assembly time while maintaining connection strength through the engineered engagement of the hook-like protrusions.
Data Source
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AI summary
Implementations of the present invention relate to systems, methods, and apparatus for connecting panels, wall modules, modular walls, partitions, and combinations thereof. Particularly, one or more implementations described herein may facilitate making quick and easy connections between panels, wall modules, modular walls, partitions, and combinations thereof. Furthermore, at least one implementation may allow an installer to interconnect panels, wall modules, modular walls, partitions, while providing a pleasing aesthetic in a final structure.