A building panel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing panel assemblies for buildings face challenges such as complexity in insulation, deformation due to heat, and fire risk in vented facades, as well as limitations and difficulties in installing solar panels.
Innovation Solution
A panel assembly design featuring resiliently deformed edge portions that snap engage to tension a central sheet member, providing improved structural integrity and ease of installation, with features like apertures and tabs for secure engagement and a ventilation system using a polymer strip that expands to close air passages when heated.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If panel assemblies are applied to multi-storey buildings, then building facade coverage is achieved, but complexity in insulation and deformation due to heat occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The panel assembly is divided into modular components including first and second sheet members with edge portions, central sheet parts, and integrated insulation elements. Each panel can be independently manufactured and assembled, reducing overall system complexity while achieving large-scale facade coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The panel assembly combines multiple materials including sheet members (metal or composite), insulation material integrated between panels, and resilient edge portions. This composite structure provides both facade coverage and thermal insulation functionality in a single integrated system
2Area of stationary object
If panel assemblies are applied to multi-storey buildings, then building facade coverage is achieved, but deformation of panels due to heat occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The edge portions of the sheet members are designed to be resilient and deformable, allowing the panel assembly to dynamically respond to thermal expansion and contraction. The resilient edge portions can flex and return to their original shape, preventing permanent deformation while maintaining facade coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The panel assembly design accounts for thermal parameter changes by incorporating expansion gaps and resilient elements that can accommodate dimensional changes due to heat. The central sheet parts are spaced apart to allow for thermal movement without compromising structural integrity
3Ease of operation
If vented facades are used, then ventilation is provided, but risk of fire travelling up between the outer surface and facade increases
Solution Approach 1:
A fire barrier material is introduced as an intermediary substance between the outer surface and the facade panels. This material fills the gap space and prevents fire from traveling upward through the ventilation channels, while still allowing the ventilation function to operate
4Adaptability or versatility
If known assemblies are used to mount solar panels, then solar panels can be installed, but installation is difficult and time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The solar panel mounting function is merged with the panel assembly structure itself. The first and second sheet members with their edge portions and central parts form an integrated mounting framework that can directly secure solar panels, eliminating the need for separate mounting hardware and reducing installation time
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
The solution enhances insulation, reduces fire risk, and simplifies the installation of solar panels by providing a secure, tensioned panel assembly with improved structural integrity and efficient ventilation.
Implementation Method 1
the first and second edge portions of the first sheet member are resiliently deformed so as to engage the first and second edge portions of the second sheet member to tension the central part of the second sheet member
Implementation Method 2
a ventilation system using a polymer strip that expands to close air passages when heated
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A panel (assembly) (10) having an inner panel member (sheet) (13) and an outer panel member (sheet) (14), with the member (13) being secured to the member (14) so that the member (14) applies an outward force to the first member (13).