Panel Locking Device with Positioning Elements for Noise Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing panel assembly technologies face challenges in easy assembly and noise reduction when panels move due to applied pressure, particularly in vertical displacement and locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of positioning elements and flexible grooves in the locking mechanism, allowing precise alignment and reduced vertical movement, with angled and flexible grooves enhancing panel flexibility and stability during assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If panels are assembled by vertical displacement with tongue and groove connection, then locking in vertical and horizontal direction is achieved, but noise occurs when pressure is applied due to panel movement
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning element is designed to preliminarily align the second panel with the first panel in the vertical direction before the locking mechanism engages. This preliminary alignment ensures that panels are properly positioned before locking, preventing movement and noise during use while maintaining the vertical displacement assembly method
Solution Approach 2:
A positioning element acts as an intermediary component between the tongue and groove locking mechanism. This element mediates the alignment process by engaging with both panels to establish proper vertical positioning, thereby eliminating the noise problem without compromising the locking stability
2Ease of operation
If panels are locked together by vertical displacement, then assembly is achieved, but precise alignment and stability during assembly are difficult to obtain
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning element performs preliminary alignment of panels in the vertical direction before the locking mechanism is fully engaged. This preliminary action guides the second panel into correct alignment with the first panel, ensuring manufacturing precision while maintaining the ease of vertical displacement assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning element introduces a vertical dimension to the alignment process, working in conjunction with the horizontal tongue and groove mechanism. By addressing alignment in the vertical dimension separately, the system achieves precise positioning without complicating the assembly operation
3Strength
If locking mechanism uses tongue and groove connection, then vertical locking is achieved, but horizontal locking stability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism merges two functions into a single integrated system: the tongue and groove connection provides vertical locking while the positioning element simultaneously provides horizontal alignment and stability. This combination achieves both vertical strength and horizontal stability without requiring separate mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
A set of panels includes first and second panels, and a mechanical locking device for assembly by vertical relative displacement of the panels. A locking strip extends from a first edge of the first panel in a direction parallel to first and second panel surfaces of the first panel. The locking strip includes a locking strip edge, and first and second locking strip surfaces respectively extending in directions substantially corresponding to those of the first and second panel surfaces. The locking strip includes a locking element cooperating with a locking groove at a second edge of the second panel for locking in a direction parallel to the first panel surface. Opposite edges respectively include cooperating tongue and tongue groove for vertical locking. The first and second edges respectively include first and second engaging positioning elements to decrease vertical movement of the panels in the locked position.