Flexing-Groove Panel Locking for Quiet Vertical Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing panel assembly technologies face challenges in easy assembly and noise reduction when panels are subjected to pressure, particularly in vertical displacement and locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
The panels incorporate a mechanical locking device with a locking strip and positioning elements that allow vertical displacement and horizontal locking, featuring flexing grooves and positioning elements to enhance flexibility and minimize noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If panels are assembled by vertical displacement with locking elements, then locking in vertical and horizontal directions is achieved, but assembly complexity increases and noise occurs under pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into separate functional elements: positioning elements for vertical alignment, locking elements for horizontal locking, and a flexing groove for flexible deformation. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function independently, reducing overall assembly complexity while maintaining locking reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexing groove enables the locking element to dynamically deform during assembly, allowing the rigid locking element to flexibly adapt to minor misalignments and then lock rigidly in place. This dynamic behavior simplifies the assembly process while ensuring reliable locking under pressure.
2Reliability
If locking elements are used to lock panels in vertical direction, then horizontal locking is achieved, but noise is generated when pressure is applied
Solution Approach 1:
The flexing groove allows the locking element to undergo controlled elastic deformation when pressure is applied, absorbing the stress and preventing the generation of noise. The locking element can flex dynamically to accommodate pressure changes while maintaining secure locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexing groove changes the mechanical parameters of the locking element by introducing flexibility in a controlled manner. This allows the locking element to deform elastically under pressure, transforming the rigid locking mechanism into a system that can accommodate pressure changes without generating noise.
3Manufacturing precision
If positioning elements are added to decrease vertical movement, then assembly precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning elements are integrated into the existing edge structure of the panels, merging the positioning function with the structural edge. This integration minimizes additional complexity while achieving precise vertical alignment during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning elements are designed to engage automatically during the assembly process, performing the alignment action preliminarily before the final locking occurs. This preliminary positioning action ensures precision without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms.
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 facilitates easy assembly and reduces noise by maintaining panel alignment and minimizing temporary displacements under pressure, providing a smooth and quiet surface junction.
Implementation Method 1
the locking strip is configured to flex by varying a shape of the first flexing groove during the assembly, thereby increasing a flexibility of the locking strip during the assembly
Implementation Method 2
the first and second positioning elements are configured to engage with each other and decrease vertical movement of the second panel relative to the first panel toward the second panel surface in the locked position
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
A set of panels includes first and second panels 1, 2, and a mechanical locking device for assembly by vertical relative displacement of the panels. A locking strip 7 extends from a first edge 11 of the first panel in a direction parallel to first and second panel surfaces of the first panel. The locking strip includes a locking strip edge, and first and second locking strip surfaces respectively extending in directions substantially corresponding to those of the first and second panel surfaces 12, 13. The locking strip includes a locking element 3 cooperating with a locking groove at a second edge of the second panel for locking in a direction parallel to the first panel surface 12. Opposite edges respectively include cooperating tongue and tongue groove 5, 6 for vertical locking. The first and second edges respectively include first and second engaging positioning elements 18, 28 to decrease vertical movement of the panels in the locked position. Moreover, the set of panels has a thickness Q and comprises a flexing groove arranged with a width T so that the ratio of Q and T is in an interval of 0.05-0.40.