Floor Covering Connecting Element for Seamless Panel Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing floor coverings face challenges in seamless installation and long-term stability due to shifting panels and gaps, which affect both aesthetics and fall protection functionality, especially when using pin-like connecting elements.
Innovation Solution
A floor covering system utilizing hard-wearing, elastic panels with a water-permeable design and a connecting element that securely fastens panels together, ensuring a seamless and stable connection through vertical assembly, using EPDM rubber granules and a two-layer structure for enhanced durability and drainage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If pin-like connecting elements are used to connect floor covering panels, then the panels can be assembled together, but the panels shift against each other over time resulting in gaps and reduced functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element is divided into multiple functional parts: a first connecting part that engages with recesses in adjacent panels, and a second connecting part that engages with the last panel. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function optimally, preventing panel shifting while maintaining ease of assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element is inserted into recesses formed in adjacent floor covering panels, creating a nested structure where the connector is housed within the panel assembly. This nesting provides stable connection while allowing for easy insertion and removal during assembly and disassembly.
2Reliability
If connecting elements are used in two directions running transversely to one another, then comprehensive connection is achieved, but difficulties arise when laying the last panel
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element is designed to be adaptable in its orientation and engagement method. It can connect panels in multiple directions by engaging with recesses positioned at different locations, allowing flexible adaptation to various panel arrangements including the challenging case of installing the last panel in a transverse direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element serves multiple functions: it connects panels in longitudinal directions, connects the last panel in transverse directions, and provides lateral stabilization. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for different connector types for different installation scenarios, simplifying the overall installation process.
3Device complexity
If floor covering panels are loosely connected or connected with pin-like elements, then assembly is simple, but gaps form over time leading to aesthetic and functional deterioration
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element features localized engagement points with specific recesses in the panels. This local quality approach creates precise connection points that maintain panel alignment without requiring complex overall structures, achieving both simplicity and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element automatically maintains panel alignment through its engagement with recesses in adjacent panels. The structure self-adjusts to prevent gaps from forming, eliminating the need for additional alignment mechanisms or complex installation procedures.
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 provides a dimensionally stable, aesthetically pleasing, and functionally effective floor covering that maintains fall protection properties over time, with improved water drainage and reduced assembly complexity, while being cost-effective and adaptable for various geometries.
Implementation Method 1
The connecting element preferably pulls floor covering panels lying against one another towards one another
Implementation Method 2
Provision is preferably made for the floor covering panel to be water-permeable. As a result, it is advantageously possible for rainwater to drain through the floor covering panel into the subsoil
Data Source
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AI summary
The board (10) has a lower side, and an upper side that is provided as a visible face, where the board is made of weather resistant material and provided for formation of a floor covering (50) in connection with a connection element (20) that is arranged on the upper side. A fixation mold enables fixation of the board with the connection element at the lower side in a form-fit manner for guiding the partial joint-less floor covering, where the connection element is made of plastic material. Another fixation mold stabilizes swiveling position of the board relative to the connection element. An independent claim is also included for a method for manufacturing the floor covering.