Modular panel system, kit, and method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing collapsible furniture and panel systems are difficult to assemble and disassemble, transport, and are limited in configurability.
Innovation Solution
A modular panel system comprising identical panels with magnetic connectors and coupling devices that allow for easy assembly, disassembly, and reconfiguration into various structures, including furniture and shade chairs, with panels being stackable for transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional collapsible furniture structures are used, then the structure provides stable support, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The furniture structure is divided into multiple identical modular panels that can be independently handled and assembled. Each panel contains integrated connectors that allow for quick coupling and decoupling with other panels, eliminating the need for complex assembly procedures while maintaining structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical fasteners (screws, bolts, clips) are replaced with magnetic connectors embedded in the panels. The magnetic force provides sufficient holding strength for stable support while allowing for effortless attachment and detachment, dramatically reducing assembly time and effort.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional furniture structures are designed for stability, then the structure remains rigid, but the ability to reconfigure into various configurations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
All panels are designed with identical dimensions, connectors, and magnetic elements, allowing any panel to be positioned in any location within the structure. This universality enables the same set of panels to be reconfigured into multiple different furniture types (benches, tables, chairs, room dividers) while maintaining consistent structural stability through standardized connection points.
3Ease of operation
If collapsible furniture is designed to be transportable, then the structure can be disassembled, but the assembly process becomes difficult and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic connectors are designed to automatically align and attract panels when brought into proximity, eliminating the need for precise manual alignment or complex assembly sequences. Users simply need to bring panels close together, and the magnetic force guides them into the correct position and secures them automatically, greatly simplifying the assembly process.
4Strength
If panels are designed with connectors for stability, then the structure remains rigid, but the weight of the panels increases
Solution Approach 1:
Heavy mechanical connectors (metal brackets, bolts, screws) are replaced with lightweight magnetic elements embedded in the panel materials. The magnetic connectors provide sufficient holding strength for stable furniture structures while adding minimal weight compared to traditional mechanical fastening systems, making the panels easier to transport and handle.
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 easy assembly and disassembly, provides versatile configurability, and enables efficient transport by allowing panels to be stacked and transported compactly.
Implementation Method 1
The first and second panels are configured to be removably coupled to one another by having respective edge portions of each of the first and second panels arranged longitudinally adjacent to one another and removably coupled together. At least the first panel includes a magnetic connector.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular panel system includes a first panel and a second panel removably connected to the first panel. Each of the first and second panels includes end edge portions spaced apart from one another to define a panel length, and lateral edge portions spaced apart from one another to define a panel width with each of the lateral edge portions extending from one of the end edge portions to the other of the end edge portions. The panel length and panel width of the second panel are, respectively, the same as the panel length and panel width of the first panel. The first and second panels are configured to be removably coupled to one another by having respective edge portions of each of the first and second panels arranged longitudinally adjacent to one another and removably coupled together. At least the first panel includes a magnetic connector.