Adjustable Panel Anchoring Device with Lateral-Access Regulation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing adjustable anchoring devices for coating panels are limited in their ability to regulate panels on non-vertical walls and require access through the rear panel, making them unsuitable for visibly assembled panels, as they need to perforate the front for adjustment.

Innovation Solution

An adjustable anchoring device that allows for vertical and horizontal regulation without perforating the panel's front, using a plaque fixed to the panel with a linearly movable slide and regulation screws with parallel axes, enabling easy alignment and positioning of adjacent panels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If regulation screws are accessed through the rear panel, then vertical regulation is achieved, but the panel front must be perforated which compromises aesthetics for visible assemblies

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess to regulation screwsVSAvoidvisible holes on panel front
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent repositions the regulation mechanism from the rear panel to the lateral side of the panel assembly. The regulation screws are now accessible from the side through openings in the lateral panel rather than through the front panel, changing the spatial dimension of access and eliminating the need for front panel perforations while maintaining regulatory functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Strength

If devices are anchored onto side shoulders, then load support is achieved, but the devices cannot be used for panels hung parallel to the wall

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload support capabilityVSAvoidapplicability to different panel configurations
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the anchoring device to be universally applicable to different panel configurations. The coupling mechanism can engage with the lateral panel in various orientations, allowing the device to support panels whether they are hung on vertical walls, inclined walls, or parallel to the wall. The regulation screws with parallel axes enable adjustment in multiple directions, providing multi-functional adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple regulation directions are implemented, then alignment versatility is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveregulation in multiple directionsVSAvoidnumber of regulation mechanisms
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple regulation functions into a unified mechanism. Two regulation screws with parallel axes are integrated into a single lateral access structure, allowing both vertical and horizontal adjustments to be made from the same side opening. This merging approach provides multi-directional regulation capability while maintaining relatively simple device architecture and avoiding the need for separate complex mechanisms for each adjustment direction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Enables versatile and precise alignment of panels in multiple directions without visible holes on the panel, improving accessibility and assembly efficiency while supporting the panel's weight without compromising aesthetics.

Implementation Method 1

a screw which moves a slide thus allowing the vertical movement of the panel

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectScrew mechanism: Screw

Implementation Method 2

regulation means of the position of the coupling of the device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentEP3248506B1Anchoring device for panels
Publication Date: 2021.04.28 LEONARDO
  • EP3248506B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3248506B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3248506B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

An adjustable anchoring device (1D) for the wall assembly (M) of coating panels (P), comprising an anchoring plaque (2D) to a panel (P) and a coupling (15D) for anchoring to a wall (M), said device (1D) comprises a slide (5D) sliding linearly with respect to said plaque (2D), in a first direction, said coupling (15D) being at least partially associated with said slide (5D) and movable with respect to said plaque (2D) in at least a second direction, substantially perpendicular with respect to said first direction.