System of elements with columns, cross beams and column fittings with clips
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for forming erect constructions, such as fences and shelves, face issues with dimensional changes due to humidity, leading to skewed structures and require special tools for assembly, while also consuming excessive storage and transportation space.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising columns made of two or four elongated L-plates held together by column fittings, which can be made of metal or plastic, allowing for easy assembly without special tools and minimizing storage and transportation needs, with optional espalier rails and beams for added stability and versatility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If wooden parts are used in columns, then the constructions can be formed with natural materials, but the dimension changes due to varying humidity lead to skewed constructions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from wood to metal (specifically aluminum or steel), which has different dimensional stability characteristics under humidity variations. This parameter change eliminates the swelling and shrinking problems inherent in wooden materials while maintaining the structural function of columns.
Solution Approach 2:
The column is constructed as a composite structure using multiple L-plates connected by fittings, creating a stable geometric configuration that resists deformation. The combination of metal L-plates with connection fittings forms a rigid framework that maintains dimensional stability.
2Productivity
If pre-fabricated wall sections are used, then the constructions can be assembled quickly, but the space needed for storing and transportation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is divided into standardized modular components (L-plates, cross-beams, fittings) that can be independently manufactured and stored in compact forms. These segmented elements assemble quickly on-site without requiring large pre-fabricated sections, reducing storage and transportation volume while maintaining assembly efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized L-plate and fitting components serve multiple functions and can be used in various construction configurations. This universality allows the same set of components to form different wall sections and structures, eliminating the need for storing multiple specialized pre-fabricated sections.
3Stability of the object's composition
If complex connection systems are used, then the constructions can be made more stable, but the difficulty of manual assembly without special tools increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection fittings are designed to be self-aligning and self-securing through simple manual operations. The L-plates and fittings incorporate features that automatically guide proper alignment and provide inherent locking mechanisms, allowing stable connections to be made without specialized tools or complex procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection fittings act as intermediaries between the L-plates and cross-beams, providing a simplified interface that translates complex structural requirements into simple manual connection actions. These fittings mediate the connection process, making stable assembly accessible to non-specialists.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention concerns a system of building elements to form different erect constructions. The system comprises columns and cross beams (24). The columns are formed of two or four elongated L-plates (1). Each L-plate (1) has two elongated parts arranged mutually perpendicular. The L-plates (1) of each column are connected to each other by means of column fittings (3, 7, 11).