Seep-Resistant Panel Joint Geometry for Fracture-Proof Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing panels are susceptible to liquid seepage and fracture, particularly at the transition point of the locking hook, which compromises their durability and sealing effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
The panels are designed with an obtuse angle between the locking hook and the end face reference plane, enhancing elasticity and increasing the distance for liquid to penetrate, while incorporating rounded transitions and labyrinth seals to improve fracture resistance and seep-resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the locking hook is designed with a perpendicular protrusion from the panel element, then the connection structure is simple, but the fracture resistance under bending load is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The locking hook is designed with an asymmetric geometry where the end face is inclined at an angle between 45° and 90° relative to the panel element's longitudinal cross-section. This asymmetric configuration creates a more favorable stress distribution under bending loads, improving fracture resistance without requiring additional structural components.
Solution Approach 2:
The inclination angle of the end face is optimized within a specific range (45°-90°) to balance fracture resistance and ease of assembly. By adjusting this geometric parameter, the locking hook achieves improved mechanical performance under bending loads while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Strength
If the locking hook is made more rigid to prevent fracture, then fracture resistance improves, but bendability and elasticity during assembly decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric end face design creates a geometric configuration that naturally accommodates bending during assembly while maintaining structural integrity. The inclined surface allows controlled deformation without concentrating stress at sharp corners, enabling both rigidity and flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The inclined end face design introduces curved stress paths rather than sharp angular transitions. This geometric curvature distributes bending stresses more evenly throughout the locking hook structure, allowing the material to deform elastically during assembly without fracturing.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If panels are connected with a standard joint plane, then assembly is simple, but seep resistance against liquid penetration is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The inclined end face introduces a dimensional change to the joint interface, creating a staggered or offset connection between adjacent panels. This three-dimensional configuration extends the liquid penetration path and reduces direct exposure to moisture, improving seep resistance without adding complex sealing components.
Solution Approach 2:
The inclined geometry creates a tapered joint interface that naturally directs liquid away from the connection point. This angular configuration reduces capillary action and liquid adhesion at the joint, providing passive seep resistance through geometric design rather than active sealing mechanisms.
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
The design significantly reduces the risk of fracture and enhances the panels' ability to prevent liquid seepage, maintaining structural integrity and visual appeal.
Implementation Method 1
allowing greater liquid retention and evaporation within the joint
Implementation Method 2
an end face reference plane of an end face of the panel element extending away from the locking hook is inclined with respect to the thickness direction, thereby forming an obtuse angle with the locking hook
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a panel for covering a surface of a room, having a panel element, which extends in a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction, for transferring use loads introduced from a top side of the panel element to a bottom side of the panel element facing the surface of the room, wherein the top side is spaced from the bottom side in a thickness direction, and having a locking hook, projecting from the panel element in the longitudinal direction, for latching into a receiving groove of another panel, wherein an end face reference plane of an end face of the panel element extending away from the locking hook is inclined relative to the thickness direction, thereby forming an obtuse angle with the locking hook. The obtuse angle between the locking hook and the end face reference plane allows for a seep-resistant and fracture-proof panel.