Variable Angle Connector for Modular Wall Intersections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modular wall systems lack flexibility in connecting adjacent panels at non-standard angles, leading to increased costs and difficulties in achieving desired aesthetics and sound protection, as they typically require custom connectors or materials that may not comply with building codes.
Innovation Solution
A customizable virtual connector post system using variable angle connectors and position retention mechanisms allows for the connection of wall modules at arbitrary angles without the need for discreet posts, enabling efficient reconfiguration and assembly of modular partitions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standard connector posts are used for modular wall assembly, then assembly is simple and cost-effective, but only 0° or 90° angles can be achieved between adjacent wall modules
Solution Approach 1:
The connector post includes a variable angle connector that can be adjusted to different angles, allowing the modular wall system to accommodate non-standard angles (not limited to 0° or 90°) while maintaining a standardized connector design. The variable angle mechanism enables dynamic reconfiguration without requiring custom connectors for each angle.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized connector post with variable angle capability serves multiple functions: it can connect wall modules at standard angles (0°, 90°) as well as non-standard angles, eliminating the need for different custom connectors for different angle requirements. This universal connector reduces overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom connectors are created for non-standard angles, then desired angle flexibility is achieved, but manufacturing costs and time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
A single standardized connector post design with integrated variable angle capability replaces the need for multiple custom connector variants. This universal connector can be manufactured using the same processes for all angle requirements, significantly reducing manufacturing costs and time while maintaining angle flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector post allows angle parameter adjustment through its variable angle mechanism, enabling the same physical connector to achieve different connection angles without requiring custom manufacturing for each angle. This parameter variability is built into the standardized design.
3Adaptability or versatility
If wood is used for custom connector posts, then ease of customization is improved, but fire safety compliance becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The connector post uses composite construction combining metal components (for structural integrity and fire resistance) with adjustable mechanisms. This composite approach maintains customization capability while ensuring fire safety compliance through the use of fire-resistant materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The design replaces permanent custom wood connectors with reusable standardized metal connectors that can be adjusted and reconfigured. This eliminates the need for fire-treated wood while maintaining customization through the variable angle mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A virtual connector post (or customized wall module intersection) includes a variable angle connector assembled with a plurality of position retention mechanisms and a corresponding plurality of connector interfaces of corresponding wall modules. The virtual connector post can be varied for virtually any shape or design simply by varying the shape of the variable angle connector(s) used therein. In particular, the variable angle connector can be arbitrarily shaped so that the ultimately joined wall modules form a corresponding, non-standard angle, such as non-right angles between wall modules in a given partition. The variable angle connectors and corresponding position retention mechanisms can be securely fastened between multiple wall modules at any number of arbitrary points along the length of a partition.