Modular Covering Panel System with Integrated Edge Heating Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surface heating and/or cooling systems, such as thin-bed underfloor heating systems, face issues with complex and time-consuming installation, limited repairability, and excessive thickness, especially when retrofitted in existing buildings, and are difficult to use for walls and ceilings.
Innovation Solution
A temperature controllable covering system with integrated heating and/or cooling elements, featuring coupling edges with receiving portions for precise placement and reduced thickness, allowing for easier installation, repair, and uniform heating/cooling, using materials like HDF boards and metal-lined recesses for enhanced conductivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If thin-bed underfloor heating systems are used, then installation height is reduced, but installation complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the heating element, insulation layer, and covering panel into a single integrated module. The heating element is directly embedded in the insulation layer which forms part of the covering panel structure, eliminating the need for separate installation of these components and reducing overall installation complexity while maintaining thin profile.
Solution Approach 2:
The covering system is divided into modular panels with standardized dimensions and integrated heating elements. Each panel is a self-contained unit that can be independently installed, allowing for simplified modular installation rather than complex continuous system installation.
2Ease of manufacture
If wet method is used for installing thin-bed underfloor heating, then heating elements can be installed, but subsequent drying time is required and readjustments are not allowed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the wet chemical bonding method with a mechanical attachment system. Heating elements are secured using mechanical fasteners or adhesive strips that do not require drying time, allowing immediate installation and potential readjustments without waiting for material curing.
3Reliability
If existing thin-bed underfloor heating systems are installed, then heating function is provided, but thickness is still too high for certain retrofit applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs thin-film heating elements with high thermal efficiency that require minimal thickness to deliver effective heating. The insulation layer is also optimized as a thin high-performance material, enabling the entire system to achieve functional heating performance while maintaining a thickness suitable for retrofit applications.
4Reliability
If worker freely arranges water pipes or electric heating elements, then heating effect can be optimized, but installation accuracy and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The heating elements are pre-positioned and pre-configured in the insulation layer during manufacturing of the covering panels. This preliminary arrangement ensures optimal heating patterns are achieved without requiring complex on-site arrangement, while maintaining precise and consistent positioning across all installations.
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
Facilitates efficient, precise, and uniform heating/cooling with reduced installation time and material usage, enabling easy adaptation and repair, suitable for floors, ceilings, and walls.
Implementation Method 1
at least one heating and/or cooling element (20; 21; 22; 23; 24) adapted for heating and/or cooling
Data Source
AI summary
A temperature controllable covering system comprises at least one heating and/or cooling element adapted for heating and/or cooling; a first covering panel comprising a first coupling edge extending at least partially along at least one edge of the first covering panel, and a second covering panel comprising a second coupling edge extending at least partially along at least one edge of the second covering panel. The first coupling edge and the second coupling edge are adapted to be coupled with each other. The first coupling edge and/or the second coupling edge comprise a receiving portion in which the at least one heating and/or cooling element is arrangeable. Further, in assembled condition, the at least one heating and/or cooling element at least partially extends along the at least one edge of the first covering panel and the at least one edge of the second covering panel.