Panel Coupling Parts With Oblique Locking Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing panel coupling systems require significant force and are not efficient in accommodating manufacturing tolerances, leading to suboptimal interlocking performance, especially in panels with thicknesses less than 6 mm.
Innovation Solution
The panel design features a tongue-and-groove coupling system with oblique locking surfaces and a locking lip that allows for easy horizontal and vertical interlocking, utilizing a nose and undercut configuration to facilitate coupling with reduced force and accommodate manufacturing variations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional tongue-and-groove coupling parts are used, then vertical interlocking is achieved, but horizontal interlocking is insufficient and requires additional locking elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the tongue and groove elements into a single integrated coupling part structure. The tongue protrudes from one edge while the groove receives it from the opposite edge, merging both vertical and horizontal locking functions into one unified component rather than using separate locking elements, thereby reducing structural complexity while maintaining interlocking stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling parts feature asymmetric geometry where the tongue has a specific shape with a rounded end and the groove has a corresponding asymmetric profile. This asymmetric design enables automatic alignment and secure engagement in both vertical and horizontal directions without requiring additional symmetric locking components.
2Ease of manufacture
If coupling parts with sharp edges are used, then manufacturing is easier, but coupling requires significant force and is difficult to accommodate manufacturing tolerances
Solution Approach 1:
The tongue element features a rounded end instead of a sharp edge, and the groove has a corresponding curved profile. This curvature allows the coupling parts to engage smoothly without requiring excessive force, while the rounded geometry helps accommodate manufacturing tolerances by providing gradual contact rather than abrupt engagement points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the geometric parameters of the coupling parts, specifically the radius of curvature at the tongue end and the depth and width of the groove. These parameter adjustments optimize both the ease of manufacturing and the ease of coupling operation, allowing panels to be joined with minimal force while maintaining secure interlocking.
3Productivity
If panels with thickness less than 6 mm are used, then modern construction requirements are met, but interlocking performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling parts utilize three-dimensional geometry with the tongue protruding vertically and the groove receiving it horizontally, creating interlocking in multiple dimensions. This multi-dimensional engagement provides sufficient mechanical strength for thin panels (less than 6 mm) while maintaining construction efficiency, as the distributed contact areas in different dimensions prevent panel bending or displacement.
Data Source
AI summary
A panel, which is rectangular and has long and short edges, includes a coupling part on each long edge and on each short edge, which allows coupling of the panel to another such panel.