Table Frame Node Connector for Modular Angle Configurations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing table frame structures require a large number of fastening bores to achieve various configurations, leading to unnecessary holes and limited design freedom due to the need for small bores to control base part size, which increases manufacturing costs and visibility of unused holes.
Innovation Solution
A node component for a table frame featuring a fastening section and a connecting section with multiple identical connecting means that allow cross members to be connected at different angular positions, reducing the number of required components and enabling modular assembly with traverses that can be aligned to minimize visible fastening elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of fastening bores are provided in the base part to enable various table configurations, then the adaptability and versatility of the frame structure is improved, but the base part size increases and unused holes become visible, worsening the appearance and increasing material consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the fastening function into two separate components: the base part with fewer fastening bores and the node component with multiple connection means. This segmentation allows the node component to provide the necessary adaptability while the base part maintains a clean appearance with minimal visible holes.
Solution Approach 2:
The node component acts as an intermediary element between the base part and the cross members. It transfers the fastening function from the base part to itself, allowing the base part to have fewer visible holes while the node component provides multiple connection options for different table configurations.
2Length of stationary object
If small fastening bores are used to limit the size of the base part, then the base part dimensions are reduced, but the design freedom in the interface between carrier and base part is considerably limited
Solution Approach 1:
The node component serves as an intermediary that compensates for the limited fastening options in the base part. By placing multiple connection means on the node component rather than the base part, the invention maintains small base part dimensions while providing extensive design freedom through the node's multiple connection points.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention shifts the complexity from the horizontal plane (multiple holes in base part) to the angular dimension (multiple connection means on node component). This allows the base part to remain compact while the node component provides versatile connection options in different angular positions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different components are used to construct various table configurations, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The node component is designed as a universal element that can accommodate multiple cross members in different angular positions. This multi-functional node component replaces the need for multiple specialized components, allowing various table configurations to be constructed using the same set of standardized parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the functions of multiple different fastening components into a single node component. By combining multiple connection means with different angular orientations into one integrated node, the invention reduces the total number of different components needed while maintaining the ability to create diverse table configurations.
4Device complexity
If a circular arrangement of fastening bores is used in the base part, then the structural simplicity is maintained, but the visibility of unused holes and limited design freedom in the interface occur
Solution Approach 1:
The node component acts as an intermediary that resolves the conflict between structural simplicity and design freedom. The simple circular base part with minimal holes is complemented by the node component, which provides the necessary interface versatility without complicating the base part structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the complex interface functionality from the base part and relocates it to the node component. This allows the base part to maintain its simple circular structure with minimal visible holes, while the node component handles the complex connection requirements for various table configurations.
Data Source
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AI summary
The joint component (11) has a fastening section at which a fastening device is arranged for fastening a supporting leg (4) at the component. A connection section is provided with three connection units. Each connection unit connects a cross-beam (12) with the component in different angle positions around one of axes with respect to the component. The axes are aligned parallel to each other. The connection units are arranged at a distance from each other in a straight line running at a distance from the fastening device. An independent claim is also included for a frame for a desk comprising a joint component.