Modular Panel Assembly for Temperature-Controlled Flooring Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional materials used for flooring structures become unsafe due to extreme temperature conditions and snow/ice accumulation, and existing temperature control systems are complex, difficult to install, and not suitable for complex configurations like staircases and ramps.
Innovation Solution
A temperature-controlled structure assembly comprising structural and functional panels with channels for heat exchanging elements, allowing for customizable and complex three-dimensional structures that can heat or cool surfaces, with a fluid conduit system for efficient heat exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional materials (composite materials, wood, pre-cast concrete, brick) are used for flooring structures, then structural stability and favorable appearance are achieved, but the materials become unsafe when exposed to extreme temperatures and snow/ice accumulation
Solution Approach 1:
The flooring structure is divided into modular panels with integrated heating/cooling channels. Each panel can be independently temperature-controlled, allowing the surface temperature to be regulated regardless of ambient conditions, thus maintaining safety while preserving the structural stability of traditional materials.
Solution Approach 2:
A fluid conduit system acts as an intermediary between the traditional flooring material and the temperature control function. The circulating fluid in the channels transfers thermal energy to or from the panel, mediating the temperature of the surface without compromising the structural integrity of the traditional materials.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex temperature control systems are installed in flooring structures, then temperature regulation capability is achieved, but the installation process becomes complex and the system is difficult to alter or replace
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature control system is segmented into modular panels with pre-integrated channels. This modularity simplifies installation as panels can be assembled like LEGO blocks, and facilitates future alterations or replacements since individual panels can be swapped without affecting the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The structural panel and temperature control channels are merged into a single integrated component. This combination eliminates the need for separate installation steps for structural framing and temperature control piping, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full temperature regulation capability.
3Ease of operation
If traditional snow removal methods (scraping utensils, snow shovels, salt) are used, then snow and ice can be removed from structures, but damage to materials and environmental hazards occur
Solution Approach 1:
The heating elements perform preliminary action by melting snow and ice before they can accumulate to problematic levels. This preventive approach eliminates the need for mechanical removal or chemical deicers, preventing both material damage and environmental hazards while maintaining ease of operation through automatic temperature control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system converts the harmful effect of cold temperatures and ice accumulation into a benefit by using controlled heating to create a safe, ice-free surface. The potential harm of snow and ice is transformed into an opportunity to demonstrate the effectiveness of active temperature management.
4Temperature
If available temperature control systems are used, then heating or cooling of floor surfaces is achieved, but the systems cannot be easily configured for complex three-dimensional structures like staircases and ramps
Solution Approach 1:
The flooring system is divided into standardized modular panels that can be assembled into various configurations. For complex three-dimensional structures like staircases and ramps, the panels can be cut and shaped while maintaining the integrated channel structure, allowing temperature control to adapt to any geometric configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular panel design with integrated channels creates a universal building block that can serve multiple functions and configurations. The same basic panel design can be used for flat floors, inclined ramps, vertical stair treads, and curved surfaces, providing universal adaptability across diverse architectural applications.
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
The system provides safe and comfortable surfaces by regulating temperature, is easily customizable and adaptable to complex configurations, and allows for easy maintenance and replacement of components without extensive time or expense.
Implementation Method 1
A heat exchanging element is disposed in each of the channels and is configured to exchange heat with at least one of the functional panels
Data Source
AI summary
A temperature controlled structure assembly comprises an array of structural panels each including at least one channel formed therein. At least one channel of each of the structural panels is aligned with at least one of the channels of an adjacent one of the structural panels to form a continuous channel extending through the array of the structural panels. At least one functional panel overlays the array of structural panels and is exposed for contact with a user. At least one heat exchanging element is disposed within the continuous channel and configured to exchange heat with the at least one functional panel in order to heat or cool the at least one functional panel.