Composite Panel Hinge Mounting for Thin Top Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard fittings struggle to provide robust connections for multi-layer panel materials, especially when the veneer plywood top layer is less than 6 mm thick, and hinges with adjustment options are unsuitable for mounting on thin top layers in sandwich materials.
Innovation Solution
A hinge system with a hinge element and base element, where the base element is mechanically coupled to the hinge leaf and the composite panel using fastening devices, allowing for non-positive and positive connections, and adjustable eccentric bolts for precise positioning, enabling robust coupling without adhesives.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If standard fittings are used to connect to multi-layer panel materials, then the connection structure is simple, but the connection robustness is insufficient when the veneer plywood top layer is less than 6 mm thick
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into multiple functional components: a base element with fastening devices for anchoring into the panel, a hinge element with coupling devices for attachment, and intermediate connection elements. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, enabling reliable connection to thin top layers while maintaining overall structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The base element is designed to be arranged at least predominantly within the layer structure of the layered composite panel, with fastening devices extending into the core layers. This nesting approach allows the connection system to utilize the thickness of the panel's core layers for anchoring, bypassing the limitation of thin top layers while maintaining a compact overall structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If hinges with adjustment options are mounted on sandwich materials with thin top layers, then the adaptability is improved, but the mounting feasibility becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The base element is pre-configured with fastening devices designed to engage with the panel's core layers before the hinge element is attached. This preliminary preparation of the mounting structure allows subsequent adjustment of the hinge without compromising the structural integrity of the connection to thin top layers.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge element incorporates adjustment mechanisms that allow dynamic repositioning after mounting. The coupling devices enable angular and positional adjustments while the base element remains firmly anchored in the panel's core layers, providing adaptability without requiring remounting that would compromise thin top layers.
3Weight of moving object
If lightweight composite panels are used in furniture, then the weight is reduced, but the connection reliability with standard fittings deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system applies local quality by designing fastening devices with different engagement characteristics for different panel layers. The base element anchors into the high-strength core layers for structural support, while the hinge element provides adjustable connection points on the surface. This localized optimization of connection quality at different positions enables reliable mounting on lightweight panels without compromising overall weight advantages.
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge system for pivotably coupling at least one layered composite panel to a counterpart. The hinge system comprising a hinge element having a first hinge leaf and a second hinge leaf and a base element which is configured to be mechanically coupled to the first hinge leaf of the hinge element by means of a first coupling device. The base element is configured to be arranged at least predominantly within a layer structure of the layered composite panel and the base element is configured to be mechanically coupled to the layered composite panel by means of a first fastening device and/or a second fastening device.