Building Panel Connector Load Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for improved methods and connections in building construction that effectively manage loading between structural components and composite panels, particularly those with substrates and load-resistant coverings, to enhance structural integrity and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method and connector system that secures a connector to both structural components and panels, engaging the load-resistant coverings to direct loading and ensuring load-transmissive engagement through bonding and abutment, using components like plates, strips, and flange portions to distribute and manage loads effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a connector engages only the substrate of the panel, then the connection is simpler to implement, but the load-transmission capability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional portions: a first portion that engages the substrate and a second portion that engages the load-resistant covering. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function, with the first portion providing structural anchoring and the second portion providing load transmission capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector extends in multiple dimensions by having portions that engage both the substrate (deeper engagement) and the load-resistant covering (surface engagement). This multi-dimensional engagement approach transforms a single-plane connection into a multi-plane connection, significantly improving load transmission.
2Reliability
If the connector engages both the substrate and load-resistant covering, then the load transmission is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector utilizes the composite structure of the panel itself (substrate + load-resistant covering) as part of its engagement mechanism. By designing the connector to engage both layers of the composite panel, the system leverages the strengths of each material layer for enhanced overall reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The load-resistant covering acts as an intermediary element between the connector and the substrate. The connector transmits loads through the covering to the substrate, and the covering provides a protective interface that distributes stresses.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If bonding is used to secure the connector to the panel, then the connection durability is enhanced, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The bonding surfaces are prepared in advance during connector manufacturing, with adhesive applications or surface treatments applied beforehand. This preliminary preparation allows the actual bonding operation during assembly to be a simple placement and curing process rather than a complex multi-step operation.
Data Source
AI summary
There is disclosed a method of constructing a building, comprising installing: wall structure of the building, the wall structure comprising a panel having opposed skins and a core within which extends at least one cavity; and a ceiling structure of the building, such that the ceiling structure is adjacent the wall structure, and the wall structure bounds a space at a side of the space and the ceiling structure bounds the space at a top of the space, and such that: the space is sheltered and/or isolated from the elements; and/or lock-up is attained in respect of said space, the method further comprising: thereafter installing at least one service line through at least one said cavity of said panel and/or installing at least one service line which comprises at least one said cavity of that panel; and thereafter installing a roof structure of the building over the ceiling structure, wherein a connector is secured between the wall structure and the ceiling structure to form therebetween a connection which is such that the connector engages both the ceiling structure and at least one of the skins so as to direct, to the skin(s) engaged thereby, loading exerted by the ceiling structure, and wherein said at least one said cavity is accessed through said connector and/or through said ceiling structure, to install the service line(s).