Wedge Compensation Element for Stepless Rail Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for adjusting the horizontal alignment of running rails, such as sliding door systems, require multiple spacers of different thicknesses to compensate for unevenness, leading to inefficiencies in stock management and installation.
Innovation Solution
A compensating element formed from two wedge elements with transversely and obliquely arranged wedge surfaces, allowing for stepless adjustment by offsetting and sliding the wedge surfaces to achieve precise alignment between the running rail and the building component.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple spacers of different thicknesses are used to compensate for unevenness, then the horizontal alignment of the running rail can be adjusted, but the complexity of stock management and installation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple spacers of different thicknesses into a single integrated compensating element with a graduated thickness profile. This merging eliminates the need to manage multiple separate spacer components while maintaining the ability to compensate for various degrees of unevenness in the building ceiling.
Solution Approach 2:
The compensating element is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate different thickness requirements through its graduated profile. A single element performs the function of multiple specialized spacers, providing both thickness variation and alignment adjustment capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple spacers of different thicknesses are kept in stock, then various compensation needs can be met, but the installation time and effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple spacer functions into one pre-configured compensating element with a graduated thickness profile, the installation process is simplified. The element is inserted as a single unit rather than requiring assembly of multiple spacers, significantly reducing installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The compensating element is pre-manufactured with the complete graduated thickness profile already integrated, eliminating the need for on-site assembly or selection of multiple spacer components. This preliminary preparation of the complete solution reduces installation complexity and time.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional spacers are used for height adjustment, then the running rail can be mounted on the ceiling, but stepless adjustment is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The compensating element features a locally varied thickness profile with a graduation that provides different thicknesses at different positions along the element. This local quality variation enables both the mounting function and stepless adjustment capability within a single component.
Solution Approach 2:
The compensating element incorporates a movable component (such as a sliding mechanism or adjustable element) that allows the user to dynamically adjust the effective thickness and horizontal position of the element, enabling stepless adjustment of the running rail alignment.
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 continuous and precise compensation for unevenness, reducing the need for multiple spacers and allowing for flexible installation, thereby improving the horizontal alignment of running rails and other structural components.
Implementation Method 1
The compensating element (4) is formed from two wedge elements (10, 11), the wedge surfaces (12) having a gradation (15) which is arranged transversely to the wedge surface (12). In addition, the wedge surfaces (12) are also arranged to run obliquely along the gradation (15).
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
The compensating element comprises wedge elements (10,11), which are provided with a gradation (15) that is arranged transverse to a wedge surface (12). The wedge surfaces extend obliquely corresponding to a base area along the gradation of the wedge elements. The wedge elements comprise slots (13). The slots of the wedge elements stand at right angles to each other. An independent claim is also included for a method for mounting a compensating element.