Tubular Structural Joint with Intersecting Bores for Disassembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for joining structural tube members using bolts and nuts result in unstable connections that require welding for stability, making them difficult to disassemble and reconfigure.
Innovation Solution
A compression joint system comprising a primary tubular member with intersecting bores for a tension and compression element, allowing for secure, stable connections that are still removable, using a combination of a tension bolt and compression nut to eliminate clearance and provide redundancy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If structural tube members are joined using only a bolt and lock-nut, then the connection can be disassembled and reconfigured, but the connection is unstable and loose
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fastening elements (bolt, lock-nut, and additional stabilization features) into a unified joint system. The bolt and lock-nut are integrated with structural features that work together to provide both stability and disassembly capability, resolving the contradiction between connection reliability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint system incorporates dynamic elements that allow the connection to adapt between a stable assembled state and an easily disassembled state. The design enables the joint to maintain stability during use while allowing controlled disassembly when needed, balancing reliability and operational flexibility.
2Reliability
If the joint is welded to make it stable, then the structural joint becomes stable and strong, but it becomes non-replaceable and difficult to disassemble
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the joint into separable components (bolt, lock-nut, and structural members) that can be assembled and disassembled independently. This segmentation allows the joint to achieve stability through proper component integration while maintaining the ability to disassemble and replace individual elements without welding.
3Strength
If welding is used to stabilize the connection, then the structural integrity is improved, but the structure becomes difficult to transport and reconfigure
Solution Approach 1:
The joint system provides dynamic functionality by maintaining strong structural integrity during transport and use, while enabling quick disassembly for reconfiguration or transport. The design allows the structure to be as strong as welded joints during operation but can be rapidly taken apart when mobility is needed, improving overall productivity.
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 solution creates a strong, stable, and easily disassemblable connection that maintains structural integrity while allowing for reconfiguration and transport, enabling the use of dissimilar materials and facilitating easy assembly and disassembly.
Implementation Method 1
The co-intersection of elements and multiple points of contact within the joint 30 and finally by compressive deformation of a tube that essentially eliminate the co-intersecting joint clearances
Implementation Method 2
The connection is near the strength of a fixed connection but still allows for dis-assembly
Data Source
AI summary
An alternative connection element to a permanent structural connection, with the ability to be disassembled or reconfigured. The apparatus and method creates a stable compression and tension connection of structural elements that provides a fixed connection but allows for dis-assembly and use of dissimilar materials and finishes. The connection includes a first bore through a primary structural element and a tension bore extending inwardly from a surface of the primary element intersecting the first bore. A compression bore extends inwardly from an opposite surface of the primary element. A secondary element is received in the first bore, and receives a tension element through the tension bore, aperture, and compression bore. A compression element is operably connected to the tension element so that the compression element and tension element are operable to urge the secondary element in abutment with an inner surface of the first bore.