Automated Perforation Layout for Building Panels

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Solution Overview

Problem

The manual layout of perforation patterns in building panel systems is inefficient, time-consuming, and often inaccurate, requiring designers to adjust designs to fit perforation patterns, which can decrease both functional and aesthetic value.

Innovation Solution

A software application automates the layout of perforation patterns on building panels by allowing users to select edges, determining starting hole spacing, and updating patterns based on user adjustments to parameters such as hole size and shape, providing detailed information on perforation layout and percentage of open area.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual layout method is used, then design flexibility is maintained, but time consumption and labor effort increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveperforation layout efficiencyVSAvoidtime for perforation pattern design

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical layout process with an automated computer-based system. The software automatically calculates and positions perforation holes based on panel geometry and design parameters, eliminating the need for manual measurement, calculation, and marking operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service by allowing designers to input parameters and receive automatic perforation layouts without requiring manual intervention in the positioning calculations. The software independently performs all layout computations and generates the perforation pattern.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Manufacturing precision

If manual layout method is used, then design control is maintained, but accuracy and precision of perforation placement deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveperforation hole placement accuracyVSAvoidcomplexity of layout process

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual layout operations with computer-automated calculations that precisely determine hole positions based on geometric relationships and design criteria, ensuring consistent and accurate placement without human error.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses digital copies of panel geometry from CAD drawings to generate perforation layouts, ensuring that the layout accurately reflects the intended design without distortion or measurement errors that occur in manual processes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

3Adaptability or versatility

If manual layout method is used, then simple tools are required, but adaptability to design changes deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to modify perforation parametersVSAvoidease of making design adjustments

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic system where perforation layout parameters can be easily modified by the user. When design changes occur, the software automatically recalculates and updates the perforation pattern to match the new panel geometry or design requirements, providing high adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The software system serves multiple functions: it handles initial layout generation, modifies layouts for design changes, calculates perforation counts and spacing, and adapts to various panel shapes and sizes, making it a versatile tool for all perforation layout needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS7826917B2Method and system for laying out perforation patterns

Publication Date: 2010.11.02 USG INTERIORS INC

AI summary

A method and system for automating the layout of perforation patterns is described. An embodiment of the invention includes an innovative software application running on a computer, which application allows a perforation designer to select lines or arcs that comprise edges of a building panel. The application determines a starting hole spacing based on the average distance through the geometric center of the panel, and a default perforation pattern is laid out on a computer aided drawing. The application provides the user with detailed information about the perforation layout such as number of perforations, panel area, and percentage of open area. The application further allows the user to change any parameter such as hole size, hole spacing, hole shape, and edge spacing. After any user adjustment of the parameters, the application automatically updates the perforation pattern.