Prefabricated Panel Coupling Clamp for Misalignment-Tolerant Installation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for coupling prefabricated building panels to structures require precise alignment and can be time-consuming and resource-intensive, often leading to misalignments and project delays.
Innovation Solution
A coupling mechanism comprising a first and second member, biased together by a fastener, allowing for rapid clamping of prefabricated panels to structural components without the need for precise alignment, using a self-tapping fastener or pivoting second member to accommodate various structural profiles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional coupling methods with precise alignment requirements are used, then manufacturing precision can be maintained, but construction time and resource consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism changes the alignment parameter from precise (traditional) to tolerant (up to 15 degrees angular misalignment and lateral offset). The adjustable arm allows the coupling bore to accommodate misalignments without requiring extreme manufacturing precision, thereby reducing construction time while maintaining adequate connection strength
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism incorporates an adjustable arm that can pivot or extend to dynamically adapt to misaligned positions. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to compensate for alignment errors during installation, reducing the time needed for precise alignment while maintaining connection integrity
2Strength
If traditional coupling methods are used, then connection strength can be maintained, but the complexity of the coupling process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is divided into separate components: a first member attached to the structural component, a second member attached to the prefabricated panel, and an adjustable arm connecting them. This segmentation allows each component to be simpler and easier to install while maintaining overall connection strength through the distributed fastener system
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable arm acts as an intermediary element between the first and second members. It mediates the connection by accommodating misalignments and transferring loads, simplifying the overall coupling process while maintaining connection strength through its ability to adapt to various positions
3Manufacturing precision
If precise alignment is required for coupling, then manufacturing precision can be ensured, but the adaptability to different structural profiles decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable arm provides dynamic adaptability to different structural profiles by pivoting or extending to accommodate various angles and positions. This dynamic capability allows the coupling mechanism to work with different structural configurations without requiring precise pre-alignment, thereby enhancing versatility while maintaining adequate manufacturing precision standards
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism is designed with universal adaptability through the adjustable arm that can accommodate multiple structural profiles and alignment conditions. The same basic coupling system can be used across different applications and structural types, enhancing versatility without compromising manufacturing precision requirements
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates rapid and cost-effective coupling of prefabricated panels to structures, reducing the need for precise alignment and minimizing misalignments, thereby enhancing construction efficiency and compliance with environmentally stringent building codes.
Implementation Method 1
A coupling mechanism is provided which comprises a first member and a second member, biased together by a fastener
Implementation Method 2
using a self-tapping fastener or pivoting second member to accommodate various structural profiles
Data Source
AI summary
Example embodiments provide systems and methods for coupling prefabricated panels to a structure. One example system provides a system for coupling a prefabricated panel to a structure. The system may comprise a first member. The first member may be couplable to a framing structure of the prefabricated panel. The system may also comprise a second member. The second member may pivot relative to the first member. The system may also comprise a fastener. The fastener may be configured to bias the first and second members together such that a component of the structure is at least partially receivable between the first and second members and tightening the fastener reduces a distance between the first and second members.