Spring-Latched Connecting Means for Tolerance-Tolerant Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connecting means for components, such as furniture or machine parts, often require complex assembly and precise positioning, which can be time-consuming and prone to errors due to manufacturing tolerances and positional inaccuracies.
Innovation Solution
A connecting means utilizing spring elements and reinforcement elements, where the spring elements can be brought into engagement with a receiving element to facilitate easy latching and secure connection, with auxiliary spring elements enhancing the spring force and allowing for reversible deformation to accommodate positional tolerances, thereby simplifying the assembly process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional connecting means are used, then components can be connected, but assembly is complex and time-consuming requiring precise positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the mechanical state of the connecting element by introducing a spring mechanism that transitions between compressed and relaxed states. This parameter change enables the connecting element to automatically adapt to positional variations between components, eliminating the need for precise positioning and reducing assembly time
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element is designed with dynamic characteristics through the spring mechanism, allowing it to move and adjust during assembly. The spring enables the connecting element to absorb positioning errors and accommodate tolerances, making the assembly process simpler and faster without requiring high precision
2Strength
If rigid connecting elements are used, then structural strength is maintained, but positional tolerances and manufacturing inaccuracies cause assembly errors
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism introduces a variable parameter (spring compression) that allows the connecting element to maintain structural strength while accommodating manufacturing tolerances. The spring force can be optimized to provide sufficient connection strength while absorbing positioning errors
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism acts as a cushioning element that anticipates and absorbs positioning errors before they affect the connection. By pre-compressing the spring or designing it to compress during assembly, the system compensates for manufacturing inaccuracies without compromising connection strength
3Ease of operation
If spring elements are added to improve ease of assembly, then assembly simplicity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism is integrated directly into the connecting element itself, merging the spring function with the connecting function. This consolidation avoids adding separate spring components and mounting hardware, thereby improving ease of assembly without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element is segmented into functional zones: a rigid portion for structural strength and a spring portion for accommodation of tolerances. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function efficiently, simplifying the overall design while maintaining both strength and ease of assembly
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
This solution enables reliable and efficient connection of components with reduced assembly precision demands, allowing for easy alignment and secure holding forces while minimizing the risk of damage during installation.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element (130, 138), in particular an elastic element, which can be brought into engagement with a receiving element (168)
Implementation Method 2
A spring effect, in particular a spring force, of the spring element preferably results from a bending of the spring element
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a connecting means for connecting a first component and a second component, particularly for connecting furniture parts or machine parts, by means of which connecting means the components can be connected to each other easily and reliably. According to the invention, the connecting means (100) comprises a first connecting element (120) arranged on the first component (102) in the connected state of the components and a second connecting element (122) arranged on the second component (104) in the connected state of the components, wherein a spring element (130) of the first connecting element can be brought into engagement with a receiving element (168) of the second connecting element in order to connect the first component and the second component, wherein the connecting means, in particular the first connecting element and/or the second connecting element, comprises an amplifying element for amplifying a spring force of the spring element.