Cover Panel Clip for Wind-Resistant Containment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Large containment structures with multi-panel covers face challenges in precise positioning and stability due to large, prone-to-shifting panels vulnerable to wind displacement.

Innovation Solution

A clip system with compressible legs and a clasping mechanism that secures cover panels by threading a cable through a central portion, applying outward force to the legs, and engaging securing tabs to fix the panels in place, preventing displacement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If large cover panels are used to cover containment structures, then the coverage area is improved, but the panels become prone to shifting and displacement by wind

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoverage areaVSAvoidpanel stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The large cover panel is divided into multiple smaller panels that can be individually secured. Each panel is equipped with attachment points that allow independent positioning and securing, preventing the entire large structure from shifting as a single unit while maintaining full coverage area.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Panels are pre-equipped with attachment points and securing mechanisms during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation allows for quick and easy positioning and securing of panels without requiring complex field modifications, ensuring panels can be rapidly secured to prevent wind displacement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Manufacturing precision

If multiple panels are used to achieve precise positioning, then the positioning precision is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning precisionVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A universal securing mechanism is designed that can be applied to all panels regardless of their specific position or orientation. The same attachment points, cables, and clips are used throughout the system, simplifying the overall design while enabling precise positioning of multiple panels through standardized components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If panels are secured with high strength to resist wind forces, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecuring reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The securing system incorporates dynamic elements such as adjustable cables and flexible clips that can be easily tensioned and adjusted during installation. These components provide high securing strength when engaged but allow for simple manual adjustment and installation without requiring heavy equipment or complex procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 clip system effectively secures cover panels within containment structures, resisting wind-induced displacement and ensuring precise positioning, capable of withstanding significant shear forces.

Implementation Method 1

two compressible legs adjoining opposite ends of a central portion partially-enclosing an internal space

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10316874B2Cover panel clip
Publication Date: 2019.06.11 VIAFLEX INC
  • US10316874B2 patent drawing
  • US10316874B2 patent drawing
  • US10316874B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A clip for securing one or more cover panels within a containment structure includes an annular portion partially-enclosing an internal space and two compressible legs adjoining opposite ends of the central portion. The clip further includes a clasp with first and second securing tabs configured to fixedly secure an object within the internal space and apply an outward force on the compressible legs.