U-Shaped Connecting Element for Support Frame Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support frame systems are complex, expensive, and difficult to position and connect securely without additional devices, especially when dealing with profiles of different dimensions and materials, and they lack a reliable, non-cutting, and vibration-proof connection method.
Innovation Solution
A connecting element comprising two U-shaped partial elements that can be plugged together, featuring fastening and positioning elements such as lockbolts, nuts, screws, and positioning pins, allowing for secure and adjustable connections between support frame elements of varying dimensions and materials, enabling non-detachable or detachable connections without cutting, and allowing for continuous angle adjustments from 0° to 360°.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional support frame systems use welded joints or complex connecting elements, then connection strength is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element is divided into two U-shaped partial elements that can be assembled separately and then joined together. This segmentation allows for simpler manufacturing of each individual part while achieving the required connection strength through their combined structure, reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The two U-shaped partial elements are designed to be plugged into one another, with one element nested within the other. This nesting arrangement creates a compact, space-efficient connection structure that maintains high strength while minimizing the overall size and complexity of the connecting assembly.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional connecting methods are used for profiles of different dimensions and materials, then connection versatility is limited, but positioning precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element is designed with universal applicability to join support frame elements of different dimensions and materials. The U-shaped partial elements can accommodate various profile sizes through their open geometry, while integrated positioning elements ensure precise alignment regardless of the connected elements' characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element acts as an intermediary component between support frame elements of different dimensions and materials. It provides standardized connection interfaces and positioning features that mediate between varying profile specifications, ensuring consistent positioning precision across diverse element types.
3Reliability
If non-detachable connections are used for vibration-proof performance, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of repair and adjustment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element employs dynamic fastening mechanisms including lockbolts that can be locked in place for vibration-proof performance or unlocked for disassembly. This dynamic capability allows the connection to transition between a fixed, reliable state for operation and an adjustable state for maintenance, balancing reliability with ease of repair.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element incorporates self-locking features through its fastening mechanisms that automatically maintain secure connections during vibration without requiring additional components or complex adjustment procedures. The lockbolt and positioning elements work together to self-maintain the connection integrity, ensuring reliability while keeping the system simple for future repairs.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1c
Figure 2a~2c
Figure 3a~3d
AI summary
The invention relates to a connecting element (10, 10', 10", 10"', 10x, 10y) for a support frame system, comprising at least two essentially U-shaped subcomponents (12, 14) configured as mirror-images of one another, which can be or are assembled, in particular can be or are inserted into each other. The first subcomponent (12) can be or is connected to at least one fastening element (100, 200, 300), wherein the second subcomponent (14) can be or is connected to at least one positioning member (20) and/or is provided with at least one positioning member (20). The invention further relates to a support frame system having at least two support frame units and at least one connecting element.