Modular Panel Fastening via Interlocking Projections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening systems for modular containers lack efficient assembly and disassembly mechanisms while ensuring structural integrity, particularly in large or voluminous containers used for storing fluids or solids.
Innovation Solution
A fastening system featuring securing apertures and engaging projections on modular panels, where the projections are sized and positioned to overlap the apertures, with a notch mechanism for secure engagement, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly while maintaining structural strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional fastening systems are used for modular containers, then structural integrity can be maintained, but assembly and disassembly processes become time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is segmented into distinct functional components: securing apertures in one panel and engaging projections on the adjacent panel. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, enabling quick connection and disconnection without requiring complex fastening mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The engaging projections are designed to automatically align with and insert into the securing apertures when panels are brought together, eliminating the need for manual alignment or additional fastening tools. The overlapping configuration ensures self-centering during assembly, making the process intuitive and rapid.
2Ease of operation
If simple fastening mechanisms are used to enable quick assembly, then ease of operation improves, but structural strength and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The engaging projections feature curved leading edges that facilitate smooth insertion into the securing apertures. This curvature allows the projections to glide into place during assembly while maintaining robust mechanical engagement once connected, ensuring both ease of operation and structural reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The engaging projections are designed to overlap and nest within the securing apertures when panels are connected. This nested configuration creates a interlocking mechanism that provides strong structural connection while allowing for simple assembly and disassembly by reversing the nesting action.
3Strength
If engaging projections overlap securing apertures to ensure secure connection, then structural strength improves, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The engaging projections feature an asymmetric design with a leading edge that is optimized for insertion and a trailing edge that provides structural strength. This asymmetric configuration allows the projection to guide itself into the aperture during assembly, reducing the need for high manufacturing precision while maintaining strong connection when engaged.
Solution Approach 2:
The overlapping configuration of the engaging projections relative to the securing apertures is designed to accommodate reasonable variations in manufacturing tolerances. By positioning the projections to overlap the apertures rather than requiring precise edge-to-edge alignment, the system maintains structural strength despite normal manufacturing variations.
Data Source
AI summary
A fastening system for use with a modular panel assembly having at least two panels includes one or more securing apertures formed through a first panel and one or more engaging projections provided on a second panel, each one of the engaging projections being sized and positioned to be engageable with a corresponding one of the securing apertures on the first panel. Panels for use in forming a modular panel assembly, modular containers, and methods of constructing modular containers are provided.