Two-Part Clamp Node Connector for Flat-Profile Beam Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing node connections for flat-profile cross members lack stability, particularly in low-profile configurations where traditional screw-based connections are insufficient.
Innovation Solution
A node connection featuring a two-part connecting clamp with a form-fitting design, including a U-shaped upper part and an L-shaped lower part, providing both non-positive and positive locking mechanisms, such as latching lugs and bores, and screw connections to securely join connecting beams at right angles, even with varying profiles and dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional screw-based connections are used for flat-profile cross members, then the connection can be assembled, but the stability and rigidity are insufficient, especially in low-profile configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting clamp is divided into two separate parts (first part and second part) that can be assembled around the connecting beam. This segmentation allows the clamp to wrap around and secure the beam more effectively, providing enhanced stability through frictional connection and positive locking mechanisms while maintaining ease of assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system combines multiple connection mechanisms (frictional connection, form-fitting enclosure, latching lugs, and screw connections) into a composite connection structure. This multi-mechanism approach ensures reliable stability through both non-positive and positive connections, addressing the insufficiency of traditional single-method screw connections.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a two-part connecting clamp with form-fitting design is used, then stability and rigidity are enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is segmented into two parts that form-fit around the connecting beam, creating a stable enclosure. The first part frictionally connects to one connecting beam while the second part connects to the perpendicular beam, and together they form-fit around the beam to prevent movement in multiple directions, enhancing joint stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution merges multiple connection mechanisms (frictional connection, form-fitting enclosure, latching mechanisms, and screw connections) into a single integrated clamp assembly. This combination provides both non-positive and positive connections simultaneously, ensuring enhanced stability and rigidity despite the increased structural complexity.
3Reliability
If latching lugs and bores are added for positive connection, then the connection becomes more secure, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latching mechanism is segmented into separate components (latching lugs on one part and corresponding bores on the other part) that are integrated into the two-part clamp structure. This segmentation allows for standardized manufacturing of individual parts that can be assembled to provide secure positive connection without requiring complex integrated manufacturing processes.
4Ease of operation
If the first part alone frictionally connects to the connecting beam in butt joint, then assembly is simplified, but the connection stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The frictional connection function is assigned to the first part alone, which simplifies the assembly process by allowing the first part to be installed independently with a simple friction fit. The second part is then added to provide additional stability through form-fitting enclosure and positive locking, achieving both ease of assembly and connection stability through functional segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The first part establishes a preliminary frictional connection that secures the connecting beam in position during assembly. This preliminary action simplifies the assembly process by providing initial stability, which is then enhanced by the addition of the second part with form-fitting and positive locking mechanisms to achieve final connection stability.
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 combination of non-positive and form-fitting connections enhances stability and rigidity, ensuring a secure and stable joint for flat-profile cross members, even in low-profile configurations, by providing a robust modular table frame structure.
Implementation Method 1
the first part of the connecting clip is alone frictionally connected to the connecting beam arranged in a butt joint
Implementation Method 2
the form-fitting connection between the first part and the second part of the connecting clip has at least one connecting element designed as a latching lug and one connecting element designed as an associated latching bore
Implementation Method 3
the first part of the connecting clip has a threaded hole for the screw for screwing
Data Source
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AI summary
Node connection between two connecting bars that meet at right angles, in particular with a flat profile, with a connecting clamp, which consists of a first part and a second part, the first part of the connecting clamp being non-positively connected to the connecting bar of the two connecting bars arranged abutting and positively connected to the second part of the connecting clamp is.