Nail-cage structural panel system

Abstract

A structural panel with improved high strength to weight ratio performance, in that it comprises a metal skeletal frame, with its inner core consisting of vertical metal fins (1) preferably of steel, bonded to top and bottom outer metal plates (2) also preferably of steel. Bonding between the vertical metal fins (1) and the top and bottom metal plates (2) is achieved mechanically with a series of tapping screws or by a series of welding along the fin edges. The top and bottom metal plates (2) consist of an array of protrusions (5) that is pre-punched facing outwards, to provide mechanical bondage to the thin outer protective layers (3). ln applications that require the outer protective layers (3) to be fire resistant, concrete or gypsum plaster material shall be used. As a modular system, individual members can be joined together to form a sizeable and functional structural entity. The longitudinal panels are joined using a series of tap welds (6) at the longitudinal edges, while the ends are joined at supports using metal splice plates (8).