Universal Coupler for Pipe-and-Drape Systems to Prevent Upright Damage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Exhibit booths constructed with tubular frameworks and hook-and-slot systems often have a 'bumpy' appearance due to height differences and suffer from steel hooks tearing into aluminum uprights, with proprietary connectors being incompatible with industry standards.
Innovation Solution
A universal coupler that allows industry standard hooks on horizontal rods to be inserted at a wider angle and securely connected to vertical support pipes, maintaining a uniform appearance and preventing damage, using a durable material like ABS plastic with a hollow well and tapered notch design compatible with existing fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If standard steel hooks are inserted into narrow industry standard slots in aluminum uprights, then connection is achieved, but the hooks tear into the uprights causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a universal coupler as an intermediary component between the steel hook and the aluminum upright. The coupler features a hollow well with a tapered notch that receives the hook, while the broader base region distributes loads to the upright, preventing the hook from directly tearing into the aluminum material.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is segmented into three distinct components: the steel hook, the universal coupler, and the aluminum upright. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function - the hook for attachment, the coupler for load distribution and protection, and the upright for structural support.
2Ease of operation
If vertical members are positioned at varying heights to accommodate standard hooks, then connection is achieved, but the drape walls have a bumpy appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The universal coupler provides a standardized interface that works with industry standard hooks while maintaining a uniform external profile. The coupler's design allows it to be installed at consistent heights across all vertical members, creating a flat, uniform appearance for the drape wall while still accommodating the standard hooks through its tapered notch.
3Reliability
If proprietary connectors are used to solve the tearing and appearance problems, then connection reliability and appearance are improved, but compatibility with industry standard hooks is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The universal coupler is designed with a tapered notch that specifically accommodates industry standard hooks, ensuring compatibility with existing hardware inventories. The broader base region provides a universal interface for attachment to various upright configurations, making the coupler adaptable to different installation scenarios while maintaining standard hook compatibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for a pipe and drape exhibit system enables the universal attachment of drape rods to the tops of support pipes using a coupler that mounts within the top of the pipes and extends upwardly to receive a connection hook carried by a drape rod within a taper slot such that the connection hook is received and retained behind a peripheral wall defining an open center of the connector.