Modular Bracket Assembly for Wall Panel Thickness Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modular building units face challenges in accommodating wall panels of varying thicknesses, as existing connecting systems require replacement of U-shaped brackets and potentially other structural elements, making reconfiguration difficult and costly.
Innovation Solution
A modular bracket assembly that attaches to the corner support posts of a modular building unit, allowing for easy replacement and adjustment of wall panels without disturbing the corner posts, using detachable connectors and adjustable components to accommodate different panel thicknesses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed U-shaped profile brackets are used to attach wall panels to corner posts, then the wall panels are securely attached, but the system cannot accommodate wall panels of different thicknesses without replacing the brackets and structural elements
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting system uses adjustable connecting members with multiple positioning options along the corner post, allowing the bracket assembly to be reconfigured for different wall panel thicknesses. The connecting members can be positioned at different locations on the corner post to accommodate varying panel dimensions without requiring replacement of structural elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket assembly is designed as a universal connecting system that can accommodate multiple wall panel configurations and thicknesses. The same bracket assembly can be used with different wall panels by adjusting the connecting members, eliminating the need for different brackets for different panel types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If wall panels are replaced with differently configured panels, then the building can be reconfigured, but the fixed U-shaped brackets require replacement which increases effort and expense
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting members are designed to be adjustable and repositionable along the corner post, allowing easy reconfiguration when wall panels are replaced. The connecting members can be moved to different positions without requiring replacement of the bracket assembly or structural elements, reducing both effort and expense.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting system is divided into separate, independent components: the bracket assembly, the connecting members, and the corner posts. This segmentation allows the connecting members to be independently adjusted or replaced without affecting the bracket assembly or structural integrity, facilitating easy reconfiguration.
3Device complexity
If the corner posts are disturbed to replace U-shaped brackets, then the brackets can be replaced, but the structural support role of the corner posts is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting system separates the bracket assembly from the corner posts, with the brackets attached to non-structural elements or to the corner posts in a manner that does not compromise their structural integrity. The connecting members interface with the corner posts at locations that maintain the posts' load-bearing capacity while allowing bracket replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting members serve as intermediaries between the bracket assembly and the corner posts, allowing the brackets to be replaced or adjusted without directly disturbing the corner posts. The connecting members can be removed and repositioned while the corner posts remain undisturbed and maintain their structural support role.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a connecting system for connecting wall panels to the support frame, and more particularly to the rigid corner support posts of a support frame, of a modular building unit. The connecting system includes a modular bracket assembly and is configured so that two modular connecting brackets attach to each corner vertical support column, which modular brackets are configured to receive the vertical edge of a wall panel. The brackets themselves are configured for easy replacement and/or adjustment through minimal effort, are fully symmetrical to allow use of bracket elements at varied locations, and may be replaced or adjusted particularly without removing, altering, or otherwise disturbing the corner vertical support column of the frame of the modular building unit.