Interlocking Modular Drainage Channel for Façade Length Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drainage channels for facade and terrace surfaces have limitations in length adjustment and are difficult to handle during assembly, leading to inefficiencies in water drainage and increased manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A drainage channel system comprising two elongate channel elements that engage in the longitudinal direction, allowing for variable length adjustment without tools, with form-fitting means for secure alignment and displacement, reducing the number of parts and simplifying assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a three-part channel section design is used with detachable form-fitting connections, then the length of the channel can be adjusted, but the channel becomes difficult to handle during assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The drainage channel is divided into two modular channel elements that can be connected in series. Each channel element is a complete functional unit with integrated form-fitting means, allowing the overall channel length to be adjusted by connecting different numbers of elements while maintaining ease of handling during assembly.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple channel parts are used for length adjustment, then the channel can be adapted to different widths, but the number of parts increases making assembly more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Each channel element is designed as a universal module that can function both as a standalone channel and as part of a longer channel system. The form-fitting means are integrated into each element, allowing the same component to serve multiple functions: providing drainage functionality, enabling length adjustment, and facilitating width adaptation through simple connection of two elements rather than requiring multiple separate parts.
3Ease of operation
If a two-part channel element design is used with form-fitting engagement, then the assembly is simplified, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The form-fitting means are designed with a nested structure where one element engages into the other through integrated protrusion and recess features. This nesting approach allows for self-alignment during assembly, reducing the impact of manufacturing tolerances and simplifying the assembly process while maintaining adequate connection stability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a drainage channel (10) for facade and/or terrace surfaces, comprising at least two channel elements (11) which are elongated and interlock longitudinally, such that the channel elements (11) circumferentially define a common receiving space (12) for receiving a liquid to be drained, wherein the two channel elements (11) are relatively displaceable longitudinally for adjusting the length of the drainage channel (10), wherein the first channel element (11') is positively engaged in the second channel element (11"), and wherein the first channel element (11') and/or the second channel element (11") have at least one positive locking element (13) into which the respective other, in particular the first or second, channel element (11', 11") engages. The invention further relates to a channel system.