Modular Building Panel with Integrated Fastening Holes
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a modular building panel that can efficiently create walls, floors, and roofs for temporary structures, as existing solutions do not adequately address the requirements for versatility and ease of assembly in such applications.
Innovation Solution
A modular building panel comprising U-channel lengthwise members, end members, corner members, and a surface panel, with strategically placed holes for fastener assembly, allowing for parallel or perpendicular orientations, and utilizing corner members to secure the structure, enabling flexible and secure construction of temporary structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If modular building panels are assembled using traditional connection methods, then structural strength is achieved, but assembly time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The building panel is divided into modular components (frame members with integrated fastening elements, interchangeable corner pieces, panel sections) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. The frame members are segmented into standardized sections with consistent connection interfaces, enabling rapid assembly through repetitive connection patterns rather than custom fitting each joint.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame members incorporate self-aligning and self-fastening features including integrated slot receivers, built-in fastening mechanisms, and self-positioning corner pieces. These self-service features eliminate the need for separate alignment tools, manual drilling, or complex fastening procedures, allowing workers to assemble connections through simple insertion and locking actions.
2Productivity
If modular building panels are designed for easy assembly, then assembly speed increases, but structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple structural functions are merged into single components: frame members combine structural load-bearing capacity with integrated fastening mechanisms and alignment features; corner pieces integrate joining, bracing, and reinforcement functions; panel attachments combine mounting and sealing capabilities. This merging maintains structural integrity while reducing the number of separate assembly steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through slotted receivers that allow positional adjustment, interchangeable corner pieces that can be configured for different structural needs, and adjustable bracing mechanisms. These dynamic features enable the structure to be optimized for stability in different configurations while maintaining rapid assembly through standardized interfaces.
3Ease of manufacture
If modular building panels use standardized components, then manufacturing efficiency increases, but design versatility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized frame members are designed with universal connection interfaces that can accommodate multiple panel types, wall configurations, and structural arrangements. The same basic frame section and corner piece can be used in various building configurations (walls, partitions, enclosures, roofs) through different assembly patterns, maintaining manufacturing efficiency while enabling design flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular system extends versatility through three-dimensional assembly configurations rather than relying on component variety. Standardized components can be arranged in different spatial configurations (varying heights, lengths, corner arrangements, panel orientations) to create diverse structural forms, achieving design versatility through dimensional arrangement rather than component differentiation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If modular building panels incorporate multiple fastening holes and connection points, then assembly flexibility increases, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
All necessary fastening holes, slot receivers, and connection points are pre-formed during frame member manufacturing through standardized drilling and machining patterns. The frame members arrive at the assembly site with all connection features already in place, eliminating the need for on-site drilling, tapping, or modification. This preliminary action provides assembly flexibility while keeping manufacturing complexity contained to the controlled manufacturing environment.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular building panel preferably includes a plurality of lengthwise members, two end members, four corner members and a surface panel. Each lengthwise member and end member includes a first flange, a base member and a second flange. Preferably, two rows of base holes are formed in the base member and one row of first flange holes is formed in the first flange. The base and flange holes are sized to receive fasteners for assembling a plurality of modular building panels in either parallel or perpendicular orientations. Both ends of the lengthwise members are modified for insertion into the two end members. The second flanges of the lengthwise and end members are attached to the surface panel with fasteners. The four corner members are inserted into four corner cavities created by the junction of the two outside lengthwise members and the two end members and secured thereto.