Spring-Reinforced Connector for Low-Force Secure Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connecting means for furniture or machine parts lack simplicity and reliability in connecting components, often requiring high forces for assembly and precision, which can lead to component damage and increased manufacturing complexity.
Innovation Solution
A connecting means featuring a first connecting element with a spring element and a second connecting element with a receiving element, where the spring element engages with the receiving element, and reinforcing elements enhance the spring force, allowing for a simple and secure connection by leveraging multiple spring elements and reinforcing elements, such as auxiliary spring elements and stiffening elements, to distribute force effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If conventional connecting means are used, then components can be connected, but high forces are required for assembly which can lead to component damage
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting means employs a spring element that provides a dynamically adjustable connection force. The spring can be pre-loaded to provide initial holding force while allowing controlled deflection during assembly, reducing peak forces and preventing component damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring constant and pre-load force of the spring element can be optimized to achieve the desired balance between holding force and assembly force. By changing the spring parameters, the connection can be made reliable while keeping assembly forces within safe limits for the components.
2Reliability
If conventional connecting means are used, then components can be connected, but the connection lacks simplicity and reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element and reinforcing element are combined into a single integrated connecting means that performs multiple functions: providing holding force, enabling simple engagement, and ensuring reliable connection. This merging reduces the need for separate components while improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element acts as an intermediary between the first and second connecting elements, providing a compliant connection that accommodates tolerances and misalignments. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the overall connection process while enhancing reliability.
3Strength
If high forces are applied for connection, then components can be connected securely, but the risk of component damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element is pre-loaded to provide a cushioning effect during assembly. This pre-compression absorbs shock and distributes forces evenly, preventing localized stress concentrations that could damage components while still achieving secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring constant is optimized to provide sufficient connection strength while limiting maximum force during assembly. By carefully selecting the spring parameters, the connection achieves high strength without applying harmful forces to the components.
4Manufacturing precision
If precise alignment is required for connection, then reliable connection can be achieved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element provides dynamic compliance that accommodates alignment tolerances and misalignments during assembly. This dynamic adjustment eliminates the need for precise pre-alignment, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining reliable connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring pre-load and deflection characteristics are optimized to compensate for manufacturing tolerances. By adjusting the spring parameters, the connection can tolerate certain misalignments without compromising reliability, reducing the need for high-precision manufacturing.
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 enables components to be connected simply and reliably with a high holding force, reducing the risk of damage during assembly and simplifying the manufacturing process by allowing for positional corrections and tolerance compensation, while minimizing the force required for connection.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element which is configured to come into engagement with the receiving element
Implementation Method 2
the connecting means, in particular the first connecting element and/or the second connecting element, includes a reinforcing element for reinforcing a spring force of the spring element
Data Source
AI summary
In order to provide a connecting means for connecting a first component and a second component, in particular for connecting furniture parts or machine parts, by means of which the components may be connected to one another simply and reliably, it is proposed that the connecting means includes a first connecting element which in the connected condition of the components is arranged on the first component, and a second connecting element which in the connected condition of the components is arranged on the second component, wherein, for connecting the first component and the second component, a spring element of the first connecting element is configured to come into engagement with a receiving element of the second connecting element, wherein the connecting means, in particular the first connecting element and/or the second connecting element, includes a reinforcing element for reinforcing a spring force of the spring element.