Modular Wall Panel Retainer with Removable Insert

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wall panel systems are difficult to modify, rearrange, or replace once installed due to their progressive nature, requiring the removal and reinstallation of all linked panels.

Innovation Solution

A modular panel system with removable panels that utilize panel retainers and attachment structures, allowing for independent placement and removal of panels without affecting adjacent ones, using a framework of panel retainers and deformable bodies to secure panels to a substrate.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If panels are installed using progressive installation with adjacent panels linked together, then the panels are securely attached to the wall, but replacing or rearranging panels becomes difficult and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepanel attachment securityVSAvoidpanel replacement ease

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the wall covering into independent modular panels that can be individually removed and replaced. Each panel is a separate unit that attaches to the wall substrate through its own attachment structure, rather than being permanently linked to adjacent panels. This segmentation allows one panel to be removed without affecting the installation status of neighboring panels.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of manufacture

If panels are linked together through progressive installation, then the installation process is systematic, but the time required to replace or rearrange panels increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation systematicityVSAvoidpanel replacement time

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The wall covering system is segmented into independent modular panels, each capable of being installed and removed individually. This allows for rapid replacement of single panels without the need to systematically remove and reinstall entire sections or all adjacent panels, dramatically reducing the time required for panel replacement or rearrangement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Stability of the object's composition

If all panels are linked together in a progressive installation system, then the framework is structurally sound, but the adaptability to change panel orientation or configuration is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveframework structural integrityVSAvoidpanel configuration flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses segmented modular panels with standardized attachment structures that maintain structural integrity through consistent connection points. This segmentation enables flexible reconfiguration of panel orientations and arrangements while preserving the overall framework stability, as each panel can be independently positioned and secured without compromising the structural soundness of adjacent panels.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS8707648B2Retainer and panel with insert for installing wall covering panels

Publication Date: 2014.04.29 FRY REGLET CORP

AI summary

Systems and methods for installing one or more modular panels onto a wall or other surface. Such systems may include at least one panel retainer mounted to a substrate and at least one panel connected to the panel retainer in a removable fashion. In these systems, the interaction of at least one panel insert and at least one attachment structure facilitates connecting the panel to the panel retainer in a removable fashion.