Support Frame Lockable Rattle-Free Elements

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing support frames with obliquely projecting elongated support elements require the form-fitting holding elements to be moved out of locking openings for vertical displacement, which is inefficient and cumbersome.

Innovation Solution

The support elements are designed with a pivoting mechanism that allows the form-fitting holding elements to engage and disengage by a lifting and pivoting movement, enabling the support elements to be fixed at different heights using a countersunk screw and nut system, and a clamping element that can be moved from a locking to a release position using a spring-loaded actuating member.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the form-fitting holding elements are moved out of locking openings for vertical displacement, then the support element can be adjusted to different heights, but the operation becomes inefficient and cumbersome

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveheight adjustabilityVSAvoidoperation efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism transitions from a static screw/threaded system to a dynamic lever-based system where the holding element can be quickly released by pivoting the lever out of engagement with the locking opening, enabling rapid height adjustment without cumbersome screw operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The support element is divided into telescopic segments that can be independently adjusted, with each segment equipped with its own locking mechanism. This allows individual height adjustment of specific segments without affecting the entire structure, improving both adaptability and operational efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If the support element is inserted with lateral play to enable pivoting movement, then the holding element can engage and disengage easily, but the structural stability may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking mechanism operationVSAvoidstructural stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The lever-based locking mechanism automatically engages when the support element is inserted, utilizing the natural positioning of the lever to snap into the locking opening. The lateral play is precisely controlled to allow automatic engagement without manual intervention, maintaining both ease of operation and structural stability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The lever is designed with asymmetric geometry where one end engages the locking opening while the other end provides the pivoting motion. This asymmetric design allows the lever to securely lock in the engaged position while still permitting easy release through pivoting, resolving the contradiction between operational ease and structural stability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

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 design allows for easier height adjustment and release of the support elements, enhancing usability and efficiency by simplifying the process of engaging and disengaging the locking mechanism, and enabling the support frame to be adjusted to different working heights with reduced operational complexity.

Implementation Method 1

spring element (34) which supports the carrier (28) in the lifted position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Implementation Method 2

The form-fitting holding element can be formed by the head of a countersunk screw. The countersunk screw is screwed into a screw-in opening in the support element.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentEP3593953B1Support frame with lockable rattle-free support elements
Publication Date: 2021.04.14 WOLFCRAFT GMBH
  • EP3593953B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3593953B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3593953B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a support frame, in particular a workbench or workpiece support, comprising a first support element (1), a second support element (2) pivotably attached to it, and retaining elements (6, 4) associated with the two support elements (1, 2). In a locking position, the retaining elements fix the two support elements (1, 2) in a first pivoted position, and in a release position, they allow the support elements (1, 2) to pivot into a second pivoted position. The retaining elements (6, 4) each have a clamping element (6) associated with one of the two support elements (1), which, in the locking position, clamps against a clamping flank associated with the other support element (2).The support frame has an elongated support element (1) projecting obliquely upwards in a vertical plane, in which an elongated support element (27) is telescopically inserted, which can be fixed to the support element (1) at different heights of the support (28) by means of a positive locking retaining element engaging in a locking opening, wherein the positive locking retaining element can be brought into and out of engagement in a locking opening by a pivoting movement of the support element (27) relative to the support element (1).