What is a key principle of joint design?

A key principle of joint design is that the joint must remain intact throughout its working life. This principle is crucial for ensuring the structural integrity and functionality of the assembly it supports. A joint that fails can lead to catastrophic results, including equipment malfunction or safety hazards. By designing joints that can withstand the forces and stresses they will encounter during their intended use, engineers ensure the reliability and durability of structures or machinery.

In contrast, while easy replacement of a joint may be beneficial, it does not address the primary need for it to function effectively throughout its life. A decorative joint, although aesthetically pleasing, does not fulfill the fundamental requirements of strength and stability required in engineering. Likewise, minimizing material use is important for cost efficiency but should not compromise the strength and permanence of the joint in its operating environment. Thus, the focus on integrity and longevity makes the idea that a joint must remain intact throughout its working life the primary consideration in joint design.