Prefabricated Panel Connectors With Reinforcing Frames for Stable Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Constructing buildings with prefabricated panels is time-consuming and resource-intensive, and existing connection methods often compromise structural stability and safety due to poor connections.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising reinforcing frames with embedded connectors on prefabricated panels, including hollow steel sections and cementitious layers, that facilitate efficient and sturdy connections using fasteners and reinforcing structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If many connections are made between panels to ensure structural strength, then structural stability is improved, but device complexity and construction time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple connection functions into a single integrated connector assembly that includes the connector, reinforcing structure, and fastener system. This merging reduces the number of separate connection operations needed while maintaining structural integrity, directly addressing the contradiction between structural stability and connection complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The connector and reinforcing structure are pre-assembled as an integrated unit before panel installation. This preliminary action ensures proper alignment and connection strength are achieved without requiring complex on-site assembly operations, reducing both construction time and connection complexity while maintaining structural reliability
2Reliability
If many connections are made between panels to ensure structural strength, then structural stability is improved, but construction time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector and reinforcing structure are pre-assembled as an integrated unit before panel installation. This preliminary action ensures proper alignment and connection strength are achieved without requiring complex on-site assembly operations, reducing both construction time and connection complexity while maintaining structural reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is segmented into a pre-fabricated connector assembly that can be independently manufactured and quality-tested before site installation. This segmentation allows for efficient factory production and simplifies on-site assembly, reducing construction time while ensuring structural stability through controlled manufacturing processes
3Loss of time
If existing prefabricated panels are used, then construction time is reduced, but ease of maneuvering and coupling deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is designed with localized features that facilitate easy coupling - such as pre-drilled holes, integrated alignment features, and simplified fastening mechanisms - while the rest of the panel maintains its prefabricated characteristics. This local quality improvement makes coupling easier without compromising the time-saving benefits of prefabrication
Solution Approach 2:
The connector acts as an intermediary component that simplifies the coupling process between panels. It provides a standardized interface with features like pre-aligned fastener holes and integrated reinforcing structures, making the coupling operation easier while maintaining the efficiency benefits of prefabricated construction
Data Source
AI summary
Connectors comprise a hollow or extruded body, studs integrated structural reinforcement, and receiving sockets for fastening to adjacent connectors. Connectors are placed at one or more locations on prefabricated panels to couple pre-fabricated panels together in the construction of a building. Connectors may anchor structural reinforcement internal to each panel to assist in distributing forces through the structure of the building. A reinforcing mesh may at least partially wrap around the structural reinforcement of a panel.