Boltless Containment Panel Connector with Deformable Tab
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing containment systems for tanks face challenges in assembly, particularly in extreme temperatures and conditions where manual dexterity is reduced, and the use of small parts like nuts and bolts becomes difficult due to cold weather and lack of tools.
Innovation Solution
A panelized containment system using post and panel connectors with tabs that slide into slots and are secured by bending a tab on the connector, eliminating the need for bolts and allowing assembly without tools, even in harsh conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a bolted connection system with nuts and bolts is used to connect panels, then the connection strength and reliability are improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates in cold temperatures where manual dexterity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes small fastening components (nuts and bolts) from the assembly system entirely. The connector design integrates the fastening function directly into the connector body through a deformable tab that bends to lock the panel in place, eliminating the need for separate nuts and bolts that require manual manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector performs its own fastening operation through the deformable tab mechanism. When the connector is inserted through the panel, the tab is deformed (bent) to engage with the panel opening, creating a self-securing connection without requiring external fasteners or complex manual operations.
2Reliability
If a bolted connection system with multiple small parts is used, then the connection reliability is improved, but the loss of substance increases due to dropped parts in cold weather conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (connector, fastener, locking mechanism) into a single integrated connector assembly. The deformable tab is part of the connector itself, eliminating separate nuts and bolts that could be dropped. This merging reduces the number of discrete parts from three or more to one unified component.
3Manufacturing precision
If a bolted connection system requiring tools is used, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates due to lack of electricity and advanced tools in remote locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the tool-based mechanical fastening system (wrenches, screwdrivers, impact tools) with a manual deformation mechanism. The deformable tab is bent by hand or with minimal tools to secure the panel, substituting complex tool-based mechanical fastening with a simple manual bending action that requires no electricity or advanced tools.
4Ease of operation
If a simple connector design is used to improve ease of operation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the strength of the connection deteriorates under large stresses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state and geometry of the tab from a straight, rigid form to a deformed, bent form during assembly. This parameter change transforms the tab into a mechanical lock that engages with the panel opening, providing both ease of operation (simple insertion and bending) and strong connection (interlocked geometry that resists pull-out forces).
Data Source
AI summary
Containment systems and methods for assembling containment systems include a plurality of posts supporting panels, the posts having top and bottom connectors to connect posts to panels. The tank may be assembled without tools using tabs on the connectors and slots in the panels, with at least one connector having a tab that is bent down after insertion into a slot to secure a panel to a post.