Visual Indicator for Panel Packaging Stress Monitoring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing panel packaging systems lack sufficient information for handling and monitoring, making it difficult for installers and manufacturers to assess the condition of panels during and after delivery, particularly regarding temperature, moisture, and mechanical stress.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating visual indicators on the packaging film and panels that change appearance in response to temperature, moisture, and mechanical stress, allowing for easy reading of conditions without additional aids, and providing scales for interpretation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If traditional panel packaging without indicators is used, then the packaging structure remains simple and cost-effective, but the information available to installers and manufacturers about panel conditions is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinformation about panel conditionsVSAvoidpackaging structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies color-changing indicators that respond to temperature, moisture, and mechanical stress by changing their appearance. These indicators are integrated into the packaging film and panels, providing visual information about panel conditions without requiring complex electronic systems or additional devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

2Reliability

If complex sensor systems are implemented to monitor panel conditions, then information about temperature and moisture stress can be obtained, but the system becomes complex to produce and requires additional evaluation devices

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemonitoring accuracyVSAvoidsensor system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The indicators are self-contained and automatically respond to environmental conditions (temperature, moisture, stress) by changing their appearance. They provide immediate visual feedback without requiring external power sources, data processing systems, or additional evaluation devices, making the monitoring system simple and reliable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Loss of information

If multiple indicators are provided on packaging film and panels, then comprehensive information about stress conditions is available, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestress condition informationVSAvoidmanufacturing process
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple indicators for different stress types (temperature, moisture, mechanical stress) are integrated into the packaging system. The indicators are incorporated during the packaging film manufacturing process, combining multiple monitoring functions into a unified system that does not significantly complicate the overall manufacturing process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Enables straightforward monitoring of panel conditions, ensuring compliance with laying rules and preventing damage by indicating excessive stress, thus simplifying handling and installation processes.

Implementation Method 1

the indicator constantly changes its appearance as a function of the at least one stress, wherein the at least one stress is a stress caused by temperature and/or moisture

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal stress response:

Implementation Method 2

the indicator constantly changes its appearance as a function of the at least one stress, wherein the at least one stress is a stress caused by temperature and/or moisture

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMoisture stress response:

Implementation Method 3

Furthermore, an indicator can be provided which can display a stress caused by mechanical stress

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical stress response:

Data Source

PatentEP2194004B1Wainscot panel package with indicator
Publication Date: 2013.02.20 FRITZ EGGER GMBH & CO OG
  • EP2194004B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2194004B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Panel package (1) comprises panels (3) received by a casing and an indicator (5) which changes once depending on the stress on the package. An independent claim is also included for a panel used in the above package. Preferred Features: The indicator is connected to a fixing element, preferably formed as a packing film or label. The indicator has a cover.