Panel Alignment via Temporary Intermediary Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for laying and installing rectangular panels, such as flooring panels, often result in alignment errors that propagate across rows, leading to unsatisfactory appearance and reduced stability due to the lack of a reliable method for ensuring exact panel alignment.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the use of alignment panels with complementary coupling structures to precisely align the first row of panels, either by provisional alignment panels that are removed after the second row is added or by integrating alignment panels into subsequent rows, ensuring accurate alignment and connection without the need for additional locking means like glue or nails.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If panels are laid row by row using conventional methods, then the installation process is simple, but alignment errors occur and propagate across rows resulting in unsatisfactory appearance and reduced stability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces alignment panels as intermediary elements that are temporarily coupled to the first long side of each panel during installation. These alignment panels serve as mediators to ensure precise alignment of panels in the first row before being removed after the second row is added, thereby achieving high alignment precision without permanently complicating the installation structure
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment panels are coupled to panels in advance before the actual panel installation is completed. This preliminary action ensures that panels are pre-aligned along their long sides before subsequent panels are installed, preventing alignment errors from propagating across rows while maintaining a relatively simple overall installation process
2Manufacturing precision
If alignment panels are used to ensure exact alignment, then panel alignment precision is improved, but the installation process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Alignment panels act as temporary intermediary elements that facilitate precise alignment during installation. They are coupled to the first long side of each panel, ensure exact alignment, and are removed after serving their purpose once the second row is added, minimizing time loss while achieving precision
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment panels are temporary components that are discarded (removed) after they have fulfilled their alignment function. Once the second row is installed, the alignment panels are removed from the first row, allowing the installation process to proceed without permanent additional components, thus balancing precision with time efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
In a method of laying and installing rectangular panels having a first and a second parallel long side (701, 702) and having a first and a second parallel short side (801, 802), the panels are installed in parallel panel rows extending along the long sides of the panels. An alignment panel (1) is coupled to the first long side (701) of each panel of a first panel row (100) before a next panel (102) of the first panel row (100) is installed.