Wedge Compression Connector for Tool-Free Axle and Handle Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing assembly methods for tools and wheeled objects require pre-manufactured modifications, such as tapped holes or slots, to secure components like grips, handles, and wheels, which complicates assembly, adjustment, and interchangeability, often necessitating additional tools and skilled user intervention.
Innovation Solution
A compression connector apparatus with a cavity and wedge member system that applies a compressive force to secure objects to shafts or axles, accommodating various shapes and materials without pre-assembly, allowing for easy placement, adjustment, and interchangeability without additional tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pre-manufactured modifications such as tapped holes or slots are used to secure components, then the connection strength and reliability are improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two main segments: a housing that interfaces with the mounting surface, and a wedge member that provides the securing force. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized independently - the housing provides the structural framework while the wedge member delivers the mechanical securing action, eliminating the need for complex pre-manufactured modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge member is designed to create its own securing mechanism by being driven into the housing, where it automatically generates compressive force against the mounting surface. The wedge shape itself serves as both the insertion tool and the securing element, eliminating the need for external fasteners, tapped holes, or specialized installation tools.
2Reliability
If traditional fastening methods with multiple components are used, then the connection reliability is improved, but the ease of operation and assembly time are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The housing and wedge member are designed as an integrated system where the wedge member fits precisely within the housing cavity. This merging of components into a unified assembly reduces the number of separate parts to manipulate during installation, allowing the entire connector to be installed in a single straightforward motion without multiple assembly steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge member's geometry enables it to self-align and self-secure within the housing. As the wedge is driven in, its angled surface automatically generates the necessary compressive force and mechanical interlocking action, eliminating the need for user skill or specialized tools while maintaining reliable connection.
3Strength
If compression force is applied to secure the wedge member, then the connection strength is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge member utilizes a change in geometric parameter - its angled or tapered surface profile. This geometric parameter change converts a simple linear insertion motion into a powerful compressive force against the mounting surface, generating high connection strength from a simple single-action input without requiring complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge member features a curved or angled surface that transforms the direction of applied force. As the wedge is driven linearly into the housing, its angled surface redirects this force into a perpendicular compressive load against the mounting surface, efficiently generating strong mechanical attachment through geometric transformation rather than complex mechanisms.
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 secure and adjustable attachment of components to tools and axles with minimal user skill, facilitating easier assembly and maintenance across different industries and materials, including metals, plastics, and wood, while reducing the need for pre-manufactured modifications and additional tools.
Implementation Method 1
The wedge member and cavity portion cooperative and angular shapes generally utilizing mechanical advantage to tightly couple the wedge member to the object though the cavity portion
Implementation Method 2
apples a compressive force to secure objects to shafts or axles
Data Source
AI summary
A compression connector for securing an apparatus to a mounting surface. The compression connector device can include a housing that can include a cavity configured to accept a wedge member within the cavity. The wedge member and cavity can include corresponding angular surfaces. A biasing means can be coupled to the wedge member or housing and configured to move the wedge member from a first position to a second position within the cavity. As the wedge member is moved to a second position a compressive force can be applied between the wedge and a mounting surface of an object.