Wedge-Block Interface Assembly for Tool-Less Chair Fastening
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of chairs, particularly those shipped to consumers, often requires tools and can be time-consuming and difficult, deterring users due to the need for complex component alignment and fastening.
Innovation Solution
A tool-less assembly system comprising an interface assembly with a wedge-shaped block and a receiver, where the interface body includes a stop block with an inclined surface and a fastening element, allowing for secure coupling without tools by engaging the receiver's blocks, providing a secure fit and constraining movement in three dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional fastening systems with bolts and hex keys are used, then secure attachment is achieved, but assembly becomes time-consuming and requires tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the need for tools from the assembly process by replacing traditional bolt-and-hexkey fastening with a tool-less interface system. The interface assembly includes a receiver with a cam mechanism that can be engaged and disengaged by hand, eliminating the requirement for hex keys or other assembly tools while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface assembly is designed to be self-servicing during assembly and disassembly. The cam lever mechanism allows the user to easily engage and disengage the connection without external tools, making the assembly process intuitive and self-contained. The spring-loaded design provides automatic engagement feedback, allowing users to know when proper connection is achieved without additional tools or measurements.
2Ease of operation
If traditional bolt fastening is used, then secure connection is achieved, but device complexity increases due to multiple components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple fastening functions into a single integrated interface assembly. The receiver, cam lever, spring, and positioning features are combined into one cohesive unit that replaces what would traditionally require separate bolts, nuts, washers, and alignment features. This integration simplifies the overall system while maintaining secure connection capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface assembly is designed as a universal connection system that can accommodate various chair configurations and assembly scenarios. The standardized receiver and interface body design allows the same mechanism to be used across different chair models and components, reducing the variety of fastening systems needed and simplifying both assembly and manufacturing.
3Productivity
If components are shipped disassembled to minimize space, then transportation efficiency is improved, but assembly difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The interface assembly is pre-configured during manufacturing with the spring loaded and the cam lever positioned for easy engagement. The receiver and interface body are pre-formed with precise geometries that guide alignment during assembly. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex alignment procedures or additional adjustment steps during consumer assembly, making disassembled shipping practical and easy to reassemble.
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 quick and simple assembly of chair components without tools, reducing assembly time and complexity, while ensuring stability and secure attachment of the seat and back assemblies.
Implementation Method 1
a spring, wherein the spring is disposed about the bolt
Implementation Method 2
the interface body is drawn in a direction toward the cam lever when the cam lever is engaged
Data Source
AI summary
A tool-less fastening system includes an interface assembly including an interface body having a first longitudinal end, a second longitudinal end, and a contact surface disposed between the first longitudinal surface and the second longitudinal surface, a fastening element coupled to the interface body, and a stop block extending from the interface body at the second longitudinal end, the stop block including an inclined surface. The tool-less fastening system also includes a receiver shaped to receive the interface body. The receiver has a receiver body defining a channel and at least one receiver block extending from the receiver body into the channel, wherein the at least one receiver block includes a receiving surface for receiving the contact surface of the interface body. In some embodiments, the tool-less fastening system can be implemented with shippable furniture, such as office chairs and tables.