Facade Panel Mounting Apparatus with Resilient Clip Fasteners
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing panel mounting systems on building façades are progressive, requiring the removal of multiple panels to access a single panel, which is inefficient and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A non-progressive panel mounting apparatus using a base extrusion with resilient flanges and a fastener system that allows panels to be installed independently, with adjustable depth and reveal options, and includes a stiffener for structural support and water resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If progressive style panel systems are used, then panels can be installed systematically from left to right and bottom to top, but removing a single panel requires removing many other panels first, which is time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into independent modular components: individual panels, base members with channels, and clip fasteners. Each panel can be independently attached or detached from the façade structure without affecting adjacent panels, enabling single-panel replacement while maintaining the systematic installation approach of progressive style systems.
2Ease of repair
If panel systems allow easy single panel removal, then maintenance is simplified, but the mounting structure becomes more complex requiring additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The clip fastener is nested within the channel of the base member, with the clip's resilient legs fitting inside the channel and engaging the panel. This nested configuration allows the fastening mechanism to be compact and integrated into the existing base structure without requiring separate complex components, achieving single-panel accessibility with minimal added complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The clip fastener incorporates resilient legs that automatically engage with the panel and lock into position through spring-loaded action. The self-tightening and self-locking characteristics eliminate the need for additional locking mechanisms or complex assembly procedures, providing easy panel installation and removal without significantly increasing structural complexity.
3Shape
If clips are positioned close to the panel face for aesthetic purposes, then the reveal appearance is improved, but water can more easily penetrate behind the panel
Solution Approach 1:
The channel of the base member acts as an intermediary space between the panel face and the façade structure. This channel provides a drainage pathway that directs water away from the panel-back interface, preventing water accumulation and penetration while allowing the clip to position the panel close to the desired reveal aesthetic without compromising water resistance.
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
Enables quick, efficient, and durable panel installation with adjustable depth and reveal options, allowing for easy panel replacement and improved water resistance, enhancing the building's structural integrity and aesthetic flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the first and second flanges is formed with a resilient leg that extends inwardly toward the channel... resulting in a force being exerted on the resilient legs of the flanges
Data Source
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AI summary
An improved apparatus for mounting first and second panels to a façade utilizing a base fixed to the façade. The base member mates with a fastener and holds a pair of supports outwardly from the base member. The first and second panels mount to the pair of supports and also hold a reveal strip located beneath a gap between the first and second panels.