Tool-Free Connecting Element for Reusable Mechanical Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical joints often require tools for assembly or are permanently locked, making it difficult to uncouple and reuse the components without damage.
Innovation Solution
A connecting element with a base part and a connector part featuring a protrusion and contacting portion that form a gap, allowing for tool-free assembly and disassembly of mechanical joints using only two similar elements, enabling permanent or releasable connections without wedging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional mechanical joints are used, then the joint can be formed with simple structure, but tools are required for assembly or the joint locks permanently making uncoupling impossible or requiring breaking
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element is divided into distinct functional segments: a base part and a connector part. The connector part further includes a protrusion portion and a contacting portion, each serving specific functions. This segmentation allows the joint to be formed by inserting the connector part of one element into the base part of another, enabling tool-free assembly while maintaining structural integrity and reversibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector part is designed to be inserted into and nested within the base part of another connecting element. The protrusion portion fits into a corresponding recess, and the contacting portion engages with the base part's inner surface. This nesting mechanism enables straightforward assembly without tools and allows for easy disassembly by reversing the insertion motion.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of connecting elements are used, then different joint requirements can be met, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element is designed as a universal component that can form various joint configurations through different combinations and orientations of the same element type. The base part and connector part can be arranged in multiple configurations to accommodate different structural requirements, eliminating the need for multiple specialized connecting elements and simplifying manufacturing.
3Strength
If wedging mechanism is used, then the joint locks securely, but uncoupling requires breaking the mechanical joint
Solution Approach 1:
The joint transitions from a static locked state to a dynamic reversible state. The connector part can be inserted to form a secure joint, and when uncoupling is needed, the connector part can be smoothly extracted without damage. This dynamic design allows the connecting elements to be reused multiple times while maintaining joint strength during the connected state.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1c
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a connecting element (1) for a mechanical joint (10) and a mechanical joint (10). The connecting element (1) comprises a base part (2), and a connector part (3) protruding from the base part (2). The connector part (3) comprises a protrusion portion (4), and a contacting portion (5) extending from the protrusion portion (4) to a direction of the first end (21) of the base part (2) such that a gap (6) is formed between the contacting portion (5) and the front surface (23) of the base part (2) and such that a bottom (61) of the gap (6) is formed by the protrusion portion (4), the contacting portion (5) having a front surface (51) which is parallel to the portion of the front surface (23) of the base part (2) in the area of the gap (6) and a back surface (52) facing toward the front surface (23) of the base part (2).