Anchoring device for panels

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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 holes on the front of the panel for adjustment, which is not suitable for visibly assembled panels and can compromise the aesthetic outcome.

Innovation Solution

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

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If access holes are provided on the front of the panel for adjusting the anchoring device, then the panel can be regulated, but the aesthetic appearance of the panel is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess to regulation meansVSAvoidaesthetic appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent inverts the conventional approach by providing access to regulation means from the rear side of the panel instead of the front. The regulation means are accessible through the rear panel or lining, allowing adjustment without creating visible holes on the front surface, thus maintaining aesthetic appearance while enabling operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where the regulation means are accessible through the rear panel structure. This intermediary access path allows users to regulate the anchoring device without directly interacting with the front surface of the panel, thereby preserving its visual integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If vertical regulation is provided through a screw moving a slide, then the panel can be regulated vertically, but the device cannot effectively handle non-vertical walls or align adjacent panels

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevertical regulationVSAvoidregulation capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a static single-direction regulation mechanism to a dynamic multi-directional regulation system. The device incorporates both vertical regulation (through screw-moving-slide mechanism) and horizontal regulation (through additional regulation means), enabling adaptive adjustment to accommodate non-vertical walls and align adjacent panels in multiple directions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extends the regulation capability from one dimension (vertical only) to two dimensions (vertical and horizontal). By adding horizontal regulation means to the existing vertical regulation mechanism, the device gains the ability to compensate for wall irregularities and align panels in both vertical and horizontal directions.

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

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 positioning of panels in multiple directions, ensuring accurate alignment and installation on non-vertical walls without compromising the panel's appearance, overcoming the limitations of existing devices.

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 EffectMechanical advantage: Mechanical Advantage

Data Source

PatentEP3184713B1Anchoring device for panels
Publication Date: 2020.12.09 LEONARDO
  • EP3184713B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3184713B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3184713B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

An adjustable anchoring device (1A) for the wall assembly (M) of coating panels (P), comprising an anchoring plaque (2A) to a panel (P) and a coupling (12A) for anchoring to a wall (M); said device (1A) comprises a slide (5A) sliding linearly with respect to said plaque (2A), in a first direction, said coupling (12A) being at least partially associated with said slide (5A) and movable with respect to the latter in at least a second direction, substantially perpendicular with respect to said first direction.