Two-Part Connecting Element for Tool-Free Fitted Device Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for releasably connecting fitted devices to furniture are prone to misalignment due to non-centric screw placement, require tools for disconnection, and can result in broken screw holes, making removal and reattachment difficult.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a mounting gauge for proper alignment, followed by a connecting element with a stud and collar system that allows tool-free attachment and removal, ensuring secure and easy handling of the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a wood screw is used to connect the fitted device to the piece of furniture, then the connection is secure, but the device cannot be easily removed or repositioned without tools and may damage the furniture
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element is divided into two separate parts: a first part that connects to the piece of furniture and a second part that connects to the fitted device. These parts can be easily separated without tools, allowing the device to be removed and repositioned while maintaining secure connection during use. The segmentation enables tool-free disassembly while preserving connection reliability during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system transitions from a static, permanent wood screw connection to a dynamic, reversible connection using the two-part connecting element. This allows the connection state to change between securely fixed and easily removable based on operational needs, adapting to different phases of device installation and relocation.
2Strength
If a wood screw is used to connect the fitted device, then the connection is strong, but misalignment occurs during installation due to non-centric placement
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting gauge is used before the actual connection to pre-establish the correct alignment and positioning of the first part of the connecting element in the installation recess. This preliminary alignment action ensures that subsequent connection steps occur at the correct location, preventing misalignment while maintaining strong connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting gauge acts as an intermediary tool that facilitates precise alignment between the fitted device and the piece of furniture during installation. It serves as a temporary reference element that guides the positioning of the connecting element, ensuring centric placement without requiring complex alignment procedures.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the fitted device is permanently fixed with screws, then the connection is stable, but the device cannot be easily relocated for provisional installations
Solution Approach 1:
The two-part connecting element enables the connection to be segmented into separable components, allowing the fitted device to be stably installed when needed while also enabling easy relocation for provisional installations. The first part remains in the furniture while the second part can be removed from the device, facilitating flexible repositioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system allows for temporary discarding of the connection state during relocation, where the second part is separated from the first part to enable movement. The connection can then be recovered by reconnecting the parts at a new location, providing both stability during use and adaptability for relocation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for releasably connecting a fitted device (200) to a piece of furniture (320) uses a connecting device (110). The fitted device (200) includes an attachment element (220) disposed on its housing (5), and the connecting device (110) includes an at least two-part connecting element (14) and a mounting gauge (130). The method involves inserting the fitted device (200) into an installation recess (310) adjacent to the piece of furniture; aligning the fitted device (200) relative to the piece of furniture (320); positioning the mounting gauge (130) on the attachment element (220); connecting, guided by the mounting gauge (130), a first part (122) of the connecting element (14) to the piece of furniture; removing the mounting gauge (130); and fixing the fitted device (200) on the piece of furniture (320) by connecting a second part (125) of the connecting element (14) to the first part.