Two-Piece Furniture Brackets for Non-Marking Panel Connections
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current modular office furniture systems face difficulties with brackets that are difficult to use, present an unfinished appearance, and can damage or permanently mark components.
Innovation Solution
The development of two-piece brackets, such as L-shaped and T-shaped members forming a Π-shaped bracket, and U-shaped and L-shaped members forming an S-shaped bracket, which securely support shelves and panels without damaging them, providing a finished appearance and easy installation/removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional brackets are used to connect modular office furniture components, then the furniture can be configured and assembled, but the brackets are difficult to use, present an unfinished appearance, and can damage or permanently mark components
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is divided into two separate pieces: a L-shaped member and a T-shaped member. These two pieces connect to form a Π-shaped bracket structure. The segmentation allows for easier handling and installation while distributing the connection function across multiple components, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The Π-shaped bracket formed by the L-shaped and T-shaped members acts as an intermediary element between the shelf and the vertical wall panel. This intermediary structure provides a clean, finished appearance while securely supporting the shelf without directly attaching to or damaging the panel surface.
2Shape
If traditional brackets are used to connect modular office furniture components, then the furniture can be assembled, but the brackets present an unfinished appearance
Solution Approach 1:
Dividing the bracket into L-shaped and T-shaped members allows each piece to be manufactured separately with precise geometric forms. The L-shaped member provides structural support while the T-shaped member completes the Π-shape, creating a clean, finished appearance when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The combination of L-shaped and T-shaped members creates an asymmetric Π-shaped bracket that is both aesthetically pleasing and functionally effective. The asymmetric design allows the bracket to fit snugly against the vertical wall panel while supporting the shelf, achieving both good appearance and ease of manufacture.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional brackets are used to connect modular office furniture components, then the furniture can be assembled, but the brackets can damage or permanently mark components
Solution Approach 1:
The Π-shaped bracket serves as a mediator between the shelf and the vertical wall panel, preventing direct contact that could cause damage or permanent marks. The bracket's design allows it to clamp securely to the panel without excessive force, ensuring connection reliability while protecting the panel surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket design incorporates specific geometric parameters and dimensions that allow it to fit snugly against the vertical wall panel. By carefully controlling the dimensions and angles of the L-shaped and T-shaped members, the bracket achieves reliable connection without applying damaging forces to the panel.
4Adaptability or versatility
If modular office furniture systems use brackets for configuration, then customization is possible, but the brackets are difficult to use and install
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented two-piece bracket design allows for easier installation and removal compared to traditional single-piece brackets. The L-shaped and T-shaped members can be assembled and disassembled more easily, facilitating user customization of the furniture configuration without excessive difficulty.
Solution Approach 2:
The Π-shaped bracket design provides universal applicability across different modular office furniture configurations. The same L-shaped and T-shaped member combination can be used for various shelf and panel connections, enabling customization while maintaining consistent ease of installation throughout the furniture system.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses and methods for connecting office furniture components are disclosed. One embodiment includes a two-piece bracket that attaches a vertical panel adjacent to and extending upward from the top of a second vertical panel, the bracket forming two channels having openings in opposite directions. Another embodiment includes a two-piece bracket that holds two vertical wall panels together, the bracket including a U-shaped member and an L-shaped member connected to one another to form an S-shaped member. Another embodiment includes a two-piece bracket that receives the edge of a panel in a channel between the two pieces and includes a contact surface between the two pieces that is angled to increase the pressure exerted on the panel. Still another embodiment includes a two-piece bracket that holds a shelf atop a wall panel and includes an L-shaped member and a T-shaped member that connect to form a Π-shaped member.