Timber Connection Washer Assembly With Offset Mounting Projection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing assemblies for connecting timber construction elements face challenges in manufacturing process efficiency, weight optimization, and force distribution due to the design of the washer member, particularly with the mounting projection adjacent to the opening in the second wall.
Innovation Solution
The assembly features a washer member with a mounting projection offset from the edge of the second wall, allowing the receiving channel to extend without ending in the mounting projection, thereby minimizing contact with the fastening member and optimizing manufacturing and force distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the mounting projection is directly adjacent to the opening in the second wall, then the receiving channel can be simplified, but the fastening member necessarily contacts the mounting projection causing increased weight and manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the washer member into distinct functional zones: the receiving channel area and the mounting projection area. By spatially separating these functions through the offset design, the fastening member path is isolated from the mounting projection, eliminating unnecessary contact and reducing the washer member's weight while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by giving different regions of the washer member different properties. The base body provides receiving functionality while the offset mounting projection provides engagement functionality. This localized functional differentiation allows the fastening member to pass through the receiving channel without contacting the mounting projection, reducing weight and simplifying manufacturing.
2Shape
If the mounting projection is directly adjacent to the opening in the second wall, then the washer member structure is compact, but force distribution is concentrated on the mounting projection causing stress issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the force transmission path by offsetting the mounting projection from the opening. This creates separate zones: the receiving channel handles fastening member insertion while the offset mounting projection handles plate engagement. This segmentation distributes forces more evenly across the washer member structure, preventing stress concentration at the opening edge.
Solution Approach 2:
The offset mounting projection acts as an intermediary element that transfers forces from the plate to the base body without requiring direct contact with the fastening member. This intermediary positioning allows forces to be distributed through the washer member's structure rather than concentrated at a single point adjacent to the opening.
3Device complexity
If the receiving channel ends in the mounting projection, then the washer member design is simplified, but manufacturing precision requirements increase due to contact between fastening member and mounting projection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the functional zones of the washer member by offsetting the mounting projection from the opening. This creates a clear separation between the receiving channel (for fastening member passage) and the mounting projection (for plate engagement). This segmentation eliminates the need for precise alignment between the fastening member and mounting projection, reducing manufacturing precision requirements while maintaining design simplicity.
Data Source
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AI summary
An assembly for connecting construction elements, particularly timber construction elements.