Modular Panel Fastener Magnet Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular construction panels face manufacturing challenges and limited modularity due to embedded magnets, which add material, complexity, and are difficult to replace or remove, limiting design and user customization.
Innovation Solution
A modular construction set with fasteners that include a magnet affixed to the panel through an aperture, allowing for magnetic attraction between units without embedding magnets in the panel, enabling easier manufacturing, customization, and user replaceability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If magnets are embedded in the panel, then magnetic attraction between units is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and material usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener is divided into two separate pieces that can be independently manufactured and then joined together through the aperture. This segmentation allows each piece to be simpler to manufacture individually, avoiding the complexity of embedding magnets within a single panel structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnet is extracted from the panel structure and placed into the fastener component. This separation removes the magnet from the panel manufacturing process entirely, simplifying panel production while maintaining the magnetic attraction function through the fastener mechanism.
2Force
If magnets are embedded in the panel, then magnetic connection is achieved, but ease of repair and customization is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the magnet into the fastener component rather than embedding it in the panel, the magnet becomes replaceable and serviceable. If a magnet becomes damaged or needs replacement, it can be easily accessed and replaced without affecting the panel structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastener design allows for dynamic reconfiguration - the two-piece fastener can be assembled, disassembled, and repositioned as needed. This dynamic nature enables easy customization and repair while maintaining the magnetic connection function.
3Force
If magnets are embedded in the panel, then magnetic attraction is achieved, but the risk of magnet dislodgment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnet is extracted from the panel and placed in the fastener, where it is securely held by the fastener's structural design. This extraction eliminates the risk of magnets being dislodged from the panel while maintaining the magnetic attraction function through the fastener mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastener acts as an intermediary component that securely holds the magnet in place. The fastener's two-piece design with retaining walls provides a reliable mechanism to prevent magnet dislodgment while allowing the magnet to perform its magnetic attraction function.
4Force
If magnets are embedded in the panel, then magnetic connection is achieved, but design and user customization is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The separation of the magnet into the fastener component allows for greater design flexibility. Different magnet types, sizes, and configurations can be used in the fastener without changing the panel design, enabling extensive customization options.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastener design serves multiple functions: it provides the magnetic connection, secures the magnet in place, and allows for easy customization. This universal design approach enables the same fastener mechanism to accommodate various magnet configurations and design requirements.
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
Simplifies manufacturing, allows for customizable appearance and functionality, and reduces the risk of magnet dislodgment, enhancing safety and modularity.
Implementation Method 1
The fastener further includes a magnet disposed between the first piece and the second piece to engage the fastener with an oppositely facing fastener of the modular construction set
Data Source
AI summary
Units and fasteners for a modular construction set are provided. A unit includes a panel having a front surface and a back surface opposite the front surface. The panel is made of a flexible material that biases the panel to a flat state. The panel includes an aperture between the front surface and the back surface. The unit further includes a fastener affixed to the panel at the aperture, the fastener including a first piece and a second piece joinable to the first piece through the aperture to affix the fastener to the panel. The fastener further includes a magnet disposed between the first piece and the second piece to engage the fastener with an oppositely facing fastener of the modular construction set.