Panel Connector Assembly for Flexible Widths and Wind Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modular polymeric panels face limitations in versatility due to fixed sizes, requiring expensive retooling for custom widths and being restricted to specific attachment structures, and are prone to separation under high wind loads, which can lead to premature failure.
Innovation Solution
The development of connector assemblies comprising side collectors and clips with adjustable geometry and energy directors, allowing for flexible panel connections and enhanced wind resistance by preventing panel separation through mechanical stops and extensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If modular polymeric panels are used with fixed sizes for ease of assembly, then installation efficiency is improved, but versatility is reduced due to inability to accommodate custom widths without expensive retooling
Solution Approach 1:
The panel system is divided into modular panels with standardized connecting edges that can be combined in various configurations. The connector assembly includes separate components (side collectors, connectors, clips) that can be adapted to different panel sizes without requiring custom panel extrusions, thus maintaining installation efficiency while improving versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly is designed with universal components that can accommodate multiple panel widths and configurations. The side collectors and connectors are standardized parts that work with any panel having the appropriate connecting edges, eliminating the need for expensive retooling while allowing custom width applications.
2Ease of manufacture
If modular panels use fixed attachment structures for simplified manufacturing, then manufacturing complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different attachment structures is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly comprises universal components (side collectors, connectors, clips) that can attach to various panel types and configurations. The standardized interface allows the same connector components to work with different panel attachment structures, maintaining manufacturing simplicity while improving compatibility.
3Ease of operation
If modular panels are connected with standard connectors for ease of assembly, then assembly simplicity is improved, but resistance to high wind loads is reduced leading to panel separation
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into multiple functional components (side collectors attached to panel edges, connectors joining side collectors, clips securing connectors to support structures). This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall assembly simplicity and significantly improving wind load resistance through distributed connection points.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly merges multiple connection mechanisms (side collector attachment to panel, connector joining side collectors, clip attachment to support structures) into an integrated system. This combination of mechanisms provides both assembly simplicity and enhanced strength to resist high wind loads.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a connector assembly comprises: a connector; and a pair of side collectors, each comprising a connector engagement region having a size and geometry to mate with the connector so as to hold ends of two adjacent panels together; and a panel engagement region comprising a receiving area and having a size to attach onto an edge of the panel; and a clip, wherein the clip has a base that can be attached to a support, an engagement, and a stem extending therebetween, wherein the engagement has an extension projecting from a side of the engagement, wherein the panel engagement region further comprises an opening in a joint wall on a side of the panel engagement region opposite the receiving area, wherein the opening is configured to receive the extension of the engagement.