Wire Plug Connection with Flexible Clamping for Low Insertion Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection systems for model building lack a balance between high holding force, low insertion force, tool-free releasability, adjustable insertion depth, small installation space, flexibility, sustainability, and aesthetics, while also being cost-effective and easy to manufacture.
Innovation Solution
A connection system comprising base components with tubular recesses and plug-in elements formed from wire, where the plug-in elements have a clamping area formed by twisted wire areas and a flexible tongue for positive locking, allowing for adjustable angles and easy insertion, with clamping elements that provide a high holding force and are easy to produce.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If existing connection systems use rigid plug connections, then structural stability is improved, but insertion force becomes too high and reusability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by using a flexible tongue made of elastic material that can deform during insertion and then spring back to provide clamping force. The flexible tongue is inserted into the tubular recess, deforms elastically to engage with the plug element, and maintains continuous contact pressure without requiring high insertion force, thus resolving the contradiction between structural stability and ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and mechanical properties of the connection elements by using elastic materials with specific durometer values (40-80 Shore A). The flexible tongue's elasticity allows it to dynamically adjust its stiffness - soft enough for easy insertion but firm enough to provide stable holding force, resolving the contradiction between low insertion force and high structural stability
2Ease of manufacture
If existing connection systems use fixed-angle connections, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by creating a dynamic connection system where the flexible tongue can deflect and accommodate various angles between base components. The elastic deformation capability allows the connection to adapt to different angular positions while maintaining secure engagement, providing both manufacturing simplicity and angle adjustability without requiring complex mechanisms
3Strength
If existing connection systems use visible connecting components, then connection strength is improved, but aesthetic appeal decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by nesting the flexible tongue within the tubular recess of the base component. The connecting component is largely concealed inside the recess, with only minimal portions visible, while the flexible tongue maintains its clamping function internally. This nested arrangement preserves connection strength while significantly improving aesthetic appeal by hiding the mechanical elements
4Force
If existing connection systems require tools for release, then holding force is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by designing a self-releasing mechanism where the flexible tongue's elastic properties enable automatic release when insertion force is removed. The tongue naturally deflects outward upon release, creating sufficient clearance for the plug element to be pulled out without tools. The system uses its own elastic energy to facilitate release, eliminating the need for external tools while maintaining high holding force during operation
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
The system achieves a high holding force with low insertion force, tool-free detachability, adjustable angles, and a compact design, while being reusable, cost-effective, and aesthetically pleasing, with improved stability and ease of production.
Implementation Method 1
each of which is at least partially formed from at least one wire and which is provided to be inserted into a corresponding tube-like recess of the base components in order to connect the two base components at least mechanically to each other
Implementation Method 2
the plug-in elements have a clamping area formed by twisted wire areas and a flexible tongue for positive locking
Implementation Method 3
The flexible tongue 22 is designed to be deflected laterally, in particular transversely and/or perpendicularly to the insertion direction, and/or transversely, in particular in the insertion direction, when the plug-in element 39 is inserted
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4a~5
Figure 6~8
AI summary
The invention relates to a connection system, in particular a model-making connection system, comprising at least two base components (10), each having at least one tube-like recess (11), and at least one connecting component (30), comprising at least two plug-in elements (39), each of which is formed at least partially from at least one wire (34, 35, 36, 37) and which is provided to be inserted into a corresponding tube-like recess (11) of the base components (10) in order to connect the two base components (10) at least mechanically to each other, wherein the base components (10) each have at least one clamping element (20) which is arranged in the at least one tube-like recess (11) and which is provided to fix one of the plug-in elements (39) in the tube-like recess (11) in a force-fit and/or form-fit manner.