Technical Specifications
Explore the technical details and engineering principles behind AngleLock technology through our comprehensive podcast series. Each segment covers a specific aspect of how our patented system delivers superior structural performance.
14 Technical Deep Dives
Click any segment to expand and read the full content. Each segment is approximately 60 seconds and covers a specific technical aspect of the AngleLock system.
Full Transcript
Welcome to "Structural Solutions Spotlight." When seeking structural aluminum, many companies offer options, but only one provides a truly superior product focused on structural integrity, reliability, and holding tight tolerances. That one-stop shop is Control Dynamics Incorporated. Their core mission is to provide a superior alternative to traditional T-slot structural aluminum systems. By doing this, they are further expanding the potential of aluminum as the preferred material for structural applications across the industry. Control Dynamics profiles and components are specifically engineered for maximum strength and performance thanks to their AngleLock design.
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T-slot systems rely on friction, but AngleLock relies on something much stronger: a bonded connection. The AngleLock patented connectors and structural aluminum designs offered by Control Dynamics are unmatched in the industry. This patented fastening system ensures assemblies stay together by creating a bonded connection in all planes. Unlike a T-slot system, which is comprised of pivots, the AngleLock system is truly a bonded connection. This unique structural system provides unmatched strength, durability, and long-term predictability.
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Precision is paramount at Control Dynamics. Located in Grafton, Wisconsin, the facility currently boasts 21 dedicated Ultra Precision computer numeric controlled Machining centers. These centers are outfitted with high-density custom fixtures. This setup allows their operators to quickly and efficiently manufacture multiple parts at once. This commitment to advanced manufacturing ensures the components are built to the necessary standards required for a superior solution to diverse requirements.
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Let's look at traditional systems. Numerous companies manufacture modular aluminum framing systems, and they nearly all employ the basic T-slot fastening system. This system relies on using an oversized fastener tightened to a high torque. They do this in an effort to keep assembled components from moving when external forces are applied. In static situations, this assembly might never experience an issue. However, this system's points of contact are all parallel, meaning the frictional force is only in a single direction or plane.
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The weakness of the T-slot system becomes evident in dynamic situations. When exposed to movement, the fastening system creates pivot points. These pivots allow for movement or slippage between the components. This movement causes misalignment and ultimately loosens the fastener, compromising the assembly. The T-slot system creates significant headaches and heartache when subject to anything that's vibrating or creating resistance to being stagnant.
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Another critical issue with the existing T-slot technology is distortion. The use of an oversized fastener, torqued to specification, can measurably distort the profile. This distortion pushes the profile outward well beyond the extrusion tolerances. This outward pressure actually compounds the misalignment caused by dynamic forces. This demonstrates why relying solely on high torque and friction in a single plane is insufficient for modern structural needs.
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The key to correcting the issues inherent in existing T-slot fastening systems lies in eliminating all pivot points. Control Dynamics achieves this by creating a mechanical lock. The AngleLock system ensures you don't have to worry about bolts coming loose or things coming out of alignment. It is a totally different type of structure built for reliability.
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How does AngleLock create this mechanical lock? It's a precise, multi-stage process. First, the AngleLock nut is anchored in two planes into the V-shaped area of the extruded profile. Next, as the fastener is tightened, the nut rotates up. This action locks it into the opposite side, successfully anchoring itself into a third plane. This early anchoring step ensures that the foundation of the connection is secure across multiple directions, stabilizing the nut immediately.
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Continuing the AngleLock process, after the nut is secured, the upper bracket slides into position. This bracket is precision-aligned to the extruded profile, creating a fourth locking plane. Finally, as the fastener is brought up to its required torque, the appropriately sized bolt stretches slightly. This stretching action creates friction in a fifth plane between the bracket and the profile. This five-plane engagement pulls the entire assembly together to form the complete mechanical lock.
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One of the most unique aspects of the AngleLock system is the bolt's action. The stretched bolt acts like a spring. This spring-like effect keeps the assembly in precise alignment. Even when subjected to a large, direct external force that attempts to separate the two attached components, the assembly remains secure. You can try subjecting other aluminum framing systems to that kind of force, but only AngleLock maintains precise alignment.
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Where is this superior structural system being used today? Control Dynamics is ready to work with you for a solution whether your requirements are in Aerospace, automation, Work Platforms, Material Handling, video production rooms, or custom applications. This system is vital wherever machinery is vibrating all day, such as with compressors, or in advanced automation solutions. If you have automation solutions that demand longevity and predictable alignment, Control Dynamics offers the structural foundation you need.
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The precision of AngleLock is best demonstrated in real-world engineering projects. Control Dynamics demonstrated their system using a docking cart and robot dock. The team highlighted how easily the robot can be removed from and reattached to its docking position. The repeatability of the robot mount itself is highly accurate, achieving plus or minus five microns. Even accounting for movement due to the wheels on the cart, the system remains extremely rigid and extremely precise.
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Let's delve deeper into the robot mount demonstration. When detaching and reattaching the cart to rerun the robot, engineers observed high accuracy. While the accuracy in the vertical plane is somewhat influenced by the cart's wheels, the overall setup is still very accurate. Notably, the docking cart utilized a battery pack, meaning there was no electrical connection required for the demonstration. The ease of removal and reattachment, coupled with precision measurements (such as plus or minus five microns repeatability), speaks to the system's rigidity.
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Control Dynamics is more than just technology; it's built on strong corporate values. The core values of the company are inherited directly from their founders. These values include approaching professional and personal lives with a great sense of Integrity, Ingenuity, deep social responsibility, and a relentless drive for quality and precision. The Control Dynamics product line stands as the latest testament to these important, guiding principles. To learn more, visit controlleddynamics.com.
Understanding the Mechanical Lock
Think of the AngleLock system versus the T-slot system as the difference between using glue tape versus interlocking bricks.
T-slot systems rely on friction—like glue tape—which holds well statically, but when twisted or pulled (dynamic forces), the surface bond (friction) can break, causing movement and slippage.
AngleLock, however, uses five locking planes, much like interlocking bricks. The components anchor into each other mechanically, and the stretched bolt acts like a powerful rubber band wrapped around the entire structure, ensuring that even if external force is applied, the structure is pulled back into its precise alignment, not relying on mere surface friction.
Experience the Difference
Ready to see how AngleLock technology can solve your structural challenges? Contact our engineering team to discuss your specific requirements.