Glass-Ceramic Worktop Mounts for Removable Accessory Fixing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Glass-ceramic sheets used as worktops or surfaces in furniture units face challenges in easy fitting and removal of electronic components, particularly in large dimensions, due to weight and the need for special tooling for repairs, limiting modifiability and accessibility.
Innovation Solution
A glass-ceramic sheet with connection elements of less than 10 cm height and a circular cross-section diameter of less than 3 cm, capable of withstanding high temperatures, allowing fixing along two axes through translational and rotational movements, enabling easy attachment and removal of accessories without special tooling, using thermosetting adhesives and customizable components like springs or magnets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If glass-ceramic sheets are used as worktops or surfaces in furniture units, then the appearance and ease of cleaning are improved, but the weight increases and handling becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The glass-ceramic sheet is divided into multiple segments or panels that can be separately handled and assembled. This segmentation reduces the weight of individual components while maintaining the overall functionality and aesthetic appearance of the worktop surface.
2Strength
If electronic components are permanently fixed to the glass-ceramic sheet, then the structural integrity is improved, but the modifiability and ease of repair deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing system transitions from a permanent static connection to a dynamic reversible connection. Electronic components are attached using removable fastening mechanisms that maintain structural integrity during use but allow easy removal and reconfiguration when needed, enabling both strength and adaptability.
3Reliability
If special-purpose tooling is used for fixing accessories, then the reliability of the connection is improved, but the ease of operation and ease of repair deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing system is designed to be self-servicing, using standard tools and simple operations that do not require specialized equipment. The connection mechanism allows users to install and remove accessories themselves using common hand tools, maintaining reliable connections while improving ease of operation and repair.
4Area of stationary object
If the glass-ceramic sheet is made in large dimensions, then the coverage area is improved, but the weight and handling difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
Large glass-ceramic worktops are divided into smaller modular panels or sections that can be individually handled, transported, and installed. These segments are then joined together using visible or concealed connection systems, achieving large coverage areas while maintaining manageable weights and ease of installation.
5Strength
If accessories are permanently bonded to the glass-ceramic sheet, then the stability of the accessory is improved, but the ease of repair and replacement deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory fixing system employs dynamic reversible connections instead of permanent bonds. Mechanical fastening elements such as clips, screws, or magnetic attachments provide stable holding forces during normal use but allow easy removal when repair or replacement is needed, balancing stability with ease of maintenance.
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 the easy fitting and removal of various accessories on glass-ceramic sheets without complex installations, maintaining structural integrity and allowing for modifiable configurations, reducing the risk of damage to components and simplifying maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
said connection element being made from a material able to withstand at least 70° C. (and preferably able to resist at least 120° C.)
Data Source
AI summary
A novel glass-ceramic sheet intended in particular to be used as a surface of a furniture unit or as a worktop, the sheet includes, in at least one of its faces, at least one connection element of a height less than 10 cm and of which the cross section is inscribed inside a circle of a diameter less than 3 cm, the connection element being made from a material able to withstand at least 70° C. and including at least one fixing system allowing fixing along at least two axes or in two movements in particular obtained by at least two different translational or rotational movements or able to exert a force directed toward the glass-ceramic sheet. A worktop or a furniture unit incorporating the sheet, and to a method for mounting accessories or elements that are to be added to said sheet.