Play Structure Tube Connector with Flexing Tabs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing play structure connectors lack a physical structure with flexing arms that lock into tube apertures, leading to insecure connections and limited configuration options.
Innovation Solution
A tube connector design featuring a center portion with projecting members and flexing tabs that are fixed at the leading edge and flex outward at the trailing edge, locking into tube openings to secure tubes together, allowing for various configurations and secure connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If friction fit connectors are used, then the connector structure is simple, but the connection security is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs flexing arms that can dynamically change shape during insertion and locking. The arms flex outward during insertion to accommodate the tube, then return to their original shape to lock into the tube aperture, providing secure connection without complex mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is divided into functional segments: the hub portion, the flexing arms, and the tube aperture engagement features. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, achieving secure connection through simple, specialized elements rather than a complex integrated structure
2Adaptability or versatility
If connectors without flexing arms are used, then the connector structure is simple, but the configuration options are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The flexing arms provide dynamic adaptability by changing their configuration during the connection process. They can flex to accommodate different tube positions and orientations, then lock into place to secure the connection, enabling multiple configuration options through a single simple structural element
Solution Approach 2:
The flexing arms change their physical state parameters (shape, position) during insertion and locking operations. This parameter change allows the same connector structure to adapt to different tube configurations and orientations, providing versatility without requiring multiple specialized connector types
3Stability of the object's composition
If flexing arms lock into tube apertures is implemented, then the connection stability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flexing arms are designed as simple elastic elements that can be formed in a single piece with the hub. Their dynamic flexing action during insertion automatically achieves the locking function without requiring complex manufacturing processes or assembly steps, maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving stable connections
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
The connector provides stable and versatile connections for play structures, enabling secure assembly and disassembly of tubes in multiple configurations, enhancing structural integrity and play possibilities.
Implementation Method 1
Flexing tabs on the projecting members, which are fixed at the end of the projecting member and extend back toward the center portion, lock into openings in the tubes to secure the tubes to the projecting members
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is a tube connector for a play structure, and a play structure system that uses such tube connectors to connect a plurality of tubes together. The tube connector has a center portion and at least one projecting member extending from the center portion. To construct a play structure, tubes are fitted over the projecting members in the tube connectors. Flexing tabs on the projecting members, which are fixed at the end of the projecting member and extend back toward the center portion, lock into openings in the tubes to secure the tubes to the projecting members and connect the tubes together into a play structure.