Modular Partition Panel Assembly to Reduce SIP Manufacturing Cost
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional construction methods using Structurally Insulating Panels (SIPs) are expensive and not universally adopted due to high costs, despite offering benefits like speed of build and improved envelope performance, mainly because they require extensive structural support and manufacturing processes that increase costs.
Innovation Solution
A modular partition system comprising panels with support members extending perpendicularly to a plane, connected by strips that form a self-supporting I-beam structure, reducing the need for extensive structural support and allowing for easier installation and reduced material waste, while using thermally or sound-insulating materials as needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If SIPs are manufactured as large sheet materials to reduce joints and air leaks, then envelope performance is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The partition system divides the structure into modular panels with standardized dimensions (e.g., 600mm width) that can be manufactured independently and assembled on-site. Each panel consists of separate components (insulation board, support members, connecting strips) that are joined together, eliminating the need for complex large-sheet manufacturing while maintaining envelope performance through standardized joining mechanisms.
2Temperature
If SIPs use insulation sandwiched between two structural panels, then thermal insulation is improved, but weight and structural support requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the structural support function from the insulation assembly by using separate support members that attach to the insulation board rather than sandwiching the insulation between two structural panels. This allows the insulation board to be lighter while the support members provide the necessary structural strength, reducing overall panel weight while maintaining thermal insulation performance.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional construction methods are used, then material costs are lower, but construction time and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The partition panels are pre-assembled in a controlled environment with connecting strips and support members attached to the insulation boards before delivery to the construction site. This preliminary assembly reduces on-site construction time and labor requirements while using cost-effective materials, achieving both affordable material costs and improved construction productivity.
4Strength
If panels are connected with extensive structural support, then structural strength is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the connection function with the structural support function by using connecting strips that serve both to join adjacent panels and to provide structural continuity. The support members extend through the panel thickness and integrate with the connecting strips, creating a unified connection system that achieves structural strength without requiring separate, complex bracing elements.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular partition system comprises a plurality of panels and at least one connecting strip. Each of the plurality of panels comprises two support members extending generally perpendicularly to a plane of the modular partition system and a central panel extending between said two support panels. The plurality of panels are arranged such that the central panels of each of the plurality of panels are generally mutually parallel and one support member of each of the plurality of panels is adjacent to a support member of an adjacent panel. The at least one connecting strip cooperates with a support member from each of two of the plurality of adjacent panels so as to connect said two of the plurality of adjacent panels.