T-Connection Insertion Profile for Mullion Transom Load Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing T-connections for post-transom constructions in facades, skylights, and winter gardens require complex notching and high manufacturing costs for load transfer, and once assembled, the connection becomes difficult to release due to inaccessible components.
Innovation Solution
A T-connection featuring an insertion profile that engages with a transverse groove on the post profile for simplified load transfer, allowing easy assembly and disassembly without complex notches, using a locking bolt and compression spring for secure positioning, and additional screws for enhanced load distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If complex notching and screw connections are used for load transfer, then load transfer capability is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate functional components: the post profile with integrated transverse groove, the connecting element with insertion profile, and the latch profile with receiving opening. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently with simpler geometries while achieving comprehensive load transfer through their coordinated interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The transverse groove is merged directly into the post profile structure, eliminating the need for separate notching operations. The insertion profile on the connecting element is designed to fit precisely into this groove, combining the load transfer function with the structural integrity of the post profile itself.
2Manufacturing precision
If collar bolts are pressed back against compression spring force, then positioning accuracy is improved, but assembly difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring the collar bolt to be pressed back against spring force for positioning, the design inverts the mechanism: the insertion profile is inserted into the transverse groove first, and then the latch profile with its receiving opening engages the connecting element. The compression spring pushes the latch profile into the engaged position, making assembly simpler while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The insertion profile is designed to be inserted into the transverse groove before the final latching action. This preliminary engagement establishes the correct positioning, and then the compression spring acts to secure the latch profile in place, simplifying the overall assembly sequence.
3Ease of operation
If collar bolts are made accessible for removal, then ease of disassembly is improved, but connection strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into reversible components: the connecting element with insertion profile can be removed from the post profile, and the latch profile can be released from the connecting element. This segmentation allows for easy disassembly while maintaining strong connection during use, as each component can be independently accessed and removed without compromising the other.
4Strength
If additional load transfer components are added, then load transfer capability is improved, but assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The load transfer function is merged into the basic connection geometry itself. The insertion profile on the connecting element fits into the transverse groove of the post profile, and the latch profile engages with the connecting element, creating an integrated connection system that achieves comprehensive load transfer without requiring additional separate components or complex assembly steps.
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
Enables efficient and cost-effective load transfer between post and transom profiles, ensuring secure connection against various loads while allowing easy installation and removal without damage.
Implementation Method 1
a compression spring (22), in particular designed as a coil spring, for pressing the positioning element (16) into an extended position
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The invention relates to a T-connection between a mullion profile (1) and a transom profile (2), particularly for mullion-transom constructions of facades, skylights, and conservatories, comprising at least one connecting element (11) that can be inserted into a cavity (3) of the transom profile (2) and a load-bearing device for connecting the transom profile (2) to the mullion profile (1) in a load-bearing manner. A simplified load-bearing connection is achieved by designing the load-bearing device as an insertion profile (18) fixedly arranged on the connecting element (11) and extending along an outer side surface (15) of the connecting element (11) for positive engagement in a transverse groove (19) on the mullion profile (1).