Mechanical Connection is a fundamental design principle and manufacturing method that involves joining two or more components through physical interlocking, fastening, or fitting mechanisms without the use of adhesives, welding, or chemical bonding. This essential aspect of industrial design encompasses a wide range of techniques including but not limited to screws, bolts, nuts, rivets, pins, clips, and various interlocking geometries that enable components to be assembled, disassembled, and in many cases, serviced or replaced. The evolution of mechanical connections has been pivotal in the development of modern manufacturing, with innovations in connection designs continuously emerging to meet increasingly complex design challenges. These connections are particularly crucial in product design, architecture, and engineering, where they must balance structural integrity with ease of assembly while considering factors such as load-bearing capacity, thermal expansion, vibration resistance, and maintenance accessibility. The design of mechanical connections often requires careful consideration of material properties, environmental conditions, and intended use scenarios, with designers needing to account for factors such as stress distribution, wear patterns, and potential failure modes. In industrial design competitions, including the A' Design Award's industrial design category, innovative mechanical connection solutions often receive recognition for their contribution to product functionality and user experience. The field continues to evolve with the integration of smart materials and advanced manufacturing techniques, leading to more sophisticated and efficient connection methods that enhance product durability and sustainability through improved serviceability and component replaceability.
mechanical fasteners, joint design, assembly systems, structural integrity
CITATION : "Daniel Johnson. 'Mechanical Connection.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=469210 (Accessed on July 09, 2025)"
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