Panel and a heating system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional underfloor heating systems using warm water or electricity are inefficient as they lose heat in transporting it from beneath the floor to the space above, leading to energy wastage and reduced effectiveness in heating the intended area.
Innovation Solution
A panel system with an integrated heat providing layer close to the surface, using electric energy to create heat directly under a covering layer, and an electrical end connector system for secure and efficient electrical connections between panels, minimizing energy loss and ensuring reliable heating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electrical connecting means are arranged on the grooves and tongues of the quick coupling joints, then the flooring boards can be mechanically coupled together, but the electrical connecting means experience small movements when pressure is applied, causing wear and potential contact loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the mechanical coupling function (grooves and tongues) from the electrical connection function (spring contacts in recesses). By dividing the connector into distinct mechanical and electrical components, the electrical connection is isolated from the wear and movement associated with mechanical joint assembly, thereby maintaining reliable electrical contact while preserving easy mechanical installation.
2Temperature
If heat is created underneath the wooden floor or stone and ceramic tiles, then underfloor heating can be provided, but the heat needs to be transported through the entire floor structure, causing energy loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional underfloor heating (heat source below the floor structure) to surface-level heating (heat source at the floor surface). By moving the heat generation location from the vertical dimension beneath the floor to the horizontal plane at the floor surface, the heating element is positioned directly adjacent to the space requiring heating, eliminating the need for heat transport through the floor structure and thereby reducing energy loss.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If the electrical connecting means are subject to wear from repeated use, then the flooring system remains durable mechanically, but the electrical connection may be lost or short-circuited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates spring contacts that provide pre-compression force to maintain continuous electrical contact. This beforehand cushioning compensates for any dimensional variations, wear, or movement in the mechanical joint, ensuring that electrical contact is maintained throughout the flooring system's lifespan without requiring precise mechanical tolerances or frequent adjustments.
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 panel system efficiently transports heat to the desired area, reducing energy consumption and extending the lifespan of the heating system by preventing wear and short circuits, while allowing for easy installation and cost-effective maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
a heat providing layer (102) attached to the base layer (101), the heat being created by electric energy
Data Source
AI summary
A panel comprising a heat providing layer is presented. The panel includes panel coupling means arranged for coupling the panel to adjacent panels. Longitudinal grooves are arranged in the panel along the whole length of the panel. In order to provide heat, at least one electrical end connector is arranged at one or more end panel coupling means. The electrical end connectors are arranged for being electrically connected to the heat providing layer, for being at least partly electrically conductive, and for at least partly protruding from the one or more end panel coupling means, thereby providing an electrical connection between the heat providing layer of the panel and a corresponding heat providing layer of at least one adjacent panel coupled to the panel. The invention also concerns a heating system comprising such a panel, the electrical end connector, and a method for installing such a heating system.