CLT Wall Panel Wedge Joint for Lift-Free Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wall panel joint technologies for cross-laminated timber (CLT) are complex and require lifting operations, which are dangerous and time-consuming, complicating the assembly process.
Innovation Solution
A wall panel joint design using locking features at the edges of CLT panels and wedges, where each panel has protrusions and grooves with heels forming a wedge space, allowing for an interference fit with wedges inserted without lifting, simplifying assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional wall panel joint technologies are used, then connection strength is achieved, but assembly complexity increases and lifting operations are required
Solution Approach 1:
The joint structure is divided into distinct functional elements: locking features (protrusions and grooves) for positional alignment, wedge spaces for insertion, and heels for structural support. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall assembly process while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using complex mechanical fasteners or adhesive systems that require precise application and curing, the invention inverts the approach by using simple wedge-shaped elements that are inserted into pre-formed wedge spaces. The wedges create compression and friction-based locking, transforming the assembly process from complex to simple.
2Productivity
If traditional joint technologies with lifting operations are used, then panel alignment is achieved, but assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking features (protrusions and grooves) and wedge spaces are pre-formed during panel manufacturing. This preliminary action eliminates the need for现场 alignment adjustments and complex assembly procedures, allowing panels to be quickly connected by simply inserting wedges into the pre-prepared spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge insertion mechanism is designed to be self-aligning and self-securing. The wedge shape automatically guides the insertion process, and the resulting compression and friction forces self-lock the joint without requiring additional fasteners or adjustment operations, significantly reducing assembly time.
3Reliability
If lifting operations are used for assembly, then panel positioning is achieved, but safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking features with heels are designed to maintain panels at the same vertical level during assembly. The heels rest on the opposing panel surface, creating an equipotential connection that eliminates height differentials and the need for lifting operations, thereby removing the associated safety hazards.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge elements serve as intermediaries that transfer and distribute forces during assembly. Instead of directly lifting and positioning heavy panels, the wedges mediate the connection process by creating friction-based locking and compression, eliminating the need for crane operations and reducing safety risks.
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 design enables rapid and safe assembly of CLT panels without the need for lifting, reducing complexity and time, and eliminating the use of cranes or other lifting mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
an interference fit is formed between both wedges and both first wall panels securing thereof
Implementation Method 2
both wedges are inserted into the wedge space so that an interference fit is formed between both wedges and both first wall panels
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to wall panels made of a cross laminated timber (CLT) and to such wall panel joints. Each side edge (5) of the wall panel (1) comprises a protrusion (51) extending thereof and a groove (52) adjacent to the protrusion (51). At the protrusion (51) a heel (53) is formed so that upon assembly of two adjacent wall panels (1) the heel (53) of one wall panel (1) is inserted into the groove (52) of another adjacent wall panel (1) and both assembled wall panels (1) form a wedge space (93) defined by the heels (53) and protrusions (51) of both assembled wall panels (1). The joint further comprises two wedges (30) where upon assembly of the two adjacent wall panels (1) both wedges (30) can be inserted into the wedge space (93) forming an interference fit between both wedges (30) and both wall panels (1).