Universal Coupler Link Mechanism for Tool-Free Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing link mechanisms require additional tools for assembly and are difficult to disassemble, limiting the ability to create variously shaped structures and restrict movement between components due to fixed coupling methods like screws or welding.
Innovation Solution
A link mechanism with flat plates and coupling pieces featuring elastic parts and seating grooves allows for easy assembly and disassembly, enabling various combinations and smooth rotation by using coupling holes and sockets with elastic deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If coupling is performed through assembly utilizing a screw or through fixing utilizing a welding or an adhesive, then the frame bodies are firmly coupled, but additional tools are required for coupling and it is difficult to disassemble the frame bodies
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling piece utilizes elastic deformation of its body to automatically engage with the coupling holes and maintain coupling strength without requiring additional tools. The elastic body deforms during insertion and retains the coupled state through its elastic recovery force, enabling tool-free assembly while maintaining firm coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling piece changes its physical state through elastic deformation - transitioning from a deformed state during insertion to a recovered state during operation. This parameter change allows the coupling piece to both insert easily and maintain strong coupling without requiring external tools or permanent fixation methods.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a coupling between the frame bodies is performed through assembly utilizing a screw or through fixing utilizing a welding or an adhesive, then the frame bodies are firmly coupled, but it is difficult to disassemble the frame bodies after coupling
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling piece transitions from a static coupling method to a dynamic one where the elastic body can be deformed for disassembly. During normal operation, the elastic body maintains stable coupling through its recovery force, but when disassembly is needed, the elastic body can be deliberately deformed to release the coupling, enabling both stability and ease of repair.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling stability is maintained through the elastic recovery parameter, while disassembly is achieved by changing this parameter through deliberate deformation. The same elastic property that provides stable coupling during operation becomes the mechanism for easy disassembly when needed.
3Strength
If a portion of the frame body through which the frame bodies can be coupled to each other is restricted to a specific area, then the frame bodies are firmly coupled, but more detail and various coupling between the frame bodies is limited so that it is difficult to obtain variously shaped structures
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling piece is designed as a universal component that can be inserted into any coupling hole regardless of its position on the frame bodies. The elastic body and seating flange design allow the same coupling piece to function at multiple locations and orientations, enabling variously shaped structures while maintaining coupling strength through the elastic engagement mechanism.
4Adaptability or versatility
If variously shaped frame bodies are provided to enable variously shaped structures to be obtained and various movements to be performed, then the mechanism can achieve various structures, but the assembling process is not convenient and additional tools are required
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling piece performs the assembly function independently through its elastic body mechanism. The elastic body automatically engages with the coupling holes and maintains the coupled state without requiring external tools or complex assembly procedures, simplifying the assembly process while supporting variously shaped structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism is divided into separate, modular components (frame bodies and coupling pieces) that can be independently assembled. Each coupling piece is a self-contained unit with the elastic body mechanism, allowing simple insertion and coupling without requiring complex assembly tools or procedures, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining versatility.
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
Enables flexible assembly and disassembly of link mechanisms, allowing for diverse structures and free movement between components without the need for additional tools, enhancing usability and versatility.
Implementation Method 1
a first elastic part inserted into the first coupling hole, split by a first slit and elastically deformed in a radial direction
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a link mechanism which is variously combined, assembled and disassembled, and a universal coupler including the same. The link mechanism according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a plate and a coupling piece. The plate has a flat plate shape and a thickness and includes a plurality of coupling holes formed to pass therethrough, the coupling holes have the same size and shape and are disposed at a interval in at least one of a column direction and a row direction. The coupling piece is inserted into the coupling holes of two or more plates to couple two or more plates to each other.