CLT Decorative Panel with Non-Newtonian Buffer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels face issues with poor decoration options and low impact resistance due to their log-based surface, which limits aesthetics and requires costly replacement upon damage, and existing connections between CLT panels and vertical structures are weak and difficult to reassemble.

Innovation Solution

A CLT decorative panel with a non-Newtonian fluid buffer layer and connecting device featuring a support body with connecting blocks, which enhances impact resistance and facilitates easier positioning and stronger connections by distributing impact forces and transferring structural stress.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If CLT panel is pressed from logs to maintain structural integrity, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but surface decoration quality deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing simplicityVSAvoidsurface decoration quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The CLT panel is divided into separate functional layers: a structural CLT layer for load-bearing and decorative layers for surface appearance. The decorative layers are attached to the CLT panel surface, allowing independent optimization of structure and aesthetics without compromising manufacturing simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Shape

If CLT panel uses log-based surface to maintain natural appearance, then aesthetic simplicity is improved, but impact resistance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesurface appearanceVSAvoidimpact resistance
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The panel combines CLT structural layer with separate decorative layers and buffer layers containing non-Newtonian fluid. This composite structure provides both natural wood appearance and enhanced impact resistance, as the buffer layer absorbs impact energy while the CLT layer maintains structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

3Strength

If CLT panel uses integral structure to maintain structural strength, then connection strength is improved, but ease of repair deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidrepairability
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The panel is designed with separable decorative layers that can be independently removed and replaced. The structural CLT layer remains intact while only the damaged decorative layer needs replacement, significantly improving repairability without compromising overall connection strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Device complexity

If CLT panel uses simple bolt connection to maintain connection simplicity, then device complexity is reduced, but connection reliability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection structure simplicityVSAvoidconnection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Positioning protrusions and grooves are pre-formed on the CLT panel edges before assembly. These features guide the connection components into correct alignment during installation, ensuring accurate positioning and reliable connection while maintaining relatively simple connection structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 improves the aesthetic appeal of CLT panels by prefabricating decorative layers, increases impact resistance through the non-Newtonian fluid buffer, and simplifies and strengthens connections between panels, reducing maintenance costs and damage risks.

Implementation Method 1

the buffer layer is internally provided with a non-Newtonian fluid

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectNon-Newtonian fluid: Non-Newtonian Fluids

Data Source

PatentUS11220820B2Cross-laminated timber decorative panel and connecting device thereof
Publication Date: 2022.01.11 SOUTHWEST FORESTRY UNIVERSITY
  • US11220820B2 patent drawing
  • US11220820B2 patent drawing
  • US11220820B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A cross-laminated timber (CLT) decorative panel and a connecting device thereof are provided, and belongs to the field of construction materials. The CLT decorative panel includes a first decorative layer, a buffer layer, a CLT layer and a second decorative layer, where the first decorative layer, the buffer layer, the CLT layer and the second decorative layer are sequentially arranged from top to bottom, and the buffer layer is internally provided with a non-Newtonian fluid. The connecting device includes a support body and a connecting block arranged on the support body; the support body has a rectangular solid structure; a cross section of the support body is square with a side length the same as a thickness of the decorative panel; the connecting block is fit with the connecting groove.