Tongue-and-Groove Panel Interconnection via Pivoting Levering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interconnectable panels face challenges with precise fitting and installation, particularly with long panels, due to deformation during connection and instability during pivoting movements, leading to difficulties in achieving a stable and proper connection.
Innovation Solution
The panels feature complementary lateral edge profiles with specific contact and fitting surfaces that allow for a pivoting connection, enabling a two-step interconnection process with a stable levering position, reducing the need for precise angular positioning and minimizing deformation, thus facilitating easier and faster installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If panels are connected via pivoting movement with snap-action connection, then interconnection speed is improved, but deformation of connecting elements occurs causing inferior fit
Solution Approach 1:
The connection process is segmented into two distinct phases: a levering phase where panels are positioned at an angle without engagement, and a connection phase where panels are brought into horizontal alignment. This segmentation allows the deformation-prone pivoting action to be separated from the precision-critical connection moment, resolving the contradiction between speed and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel edges are preliminarily positioned in close proximity during the levering phase before the actual connection occurs. This preliminary positioning ensures that when the connection phase begins, the panels are already correctly aligned, eliminating the need for deformation during connection and ensuring precise fit while maintaining installation speed.
2Reliability
If panels are positioned at correct angle over long distance, then proper connection is achieved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The installation process is divided into a levering phase for long-distance positioning and a connection phase for final engagement. During the levering phase, panels can be positioned at angles suitable for long spans without requiring precise alignment, saving time. The precise alignment is then achieved automatically during the connection phase when panels are brought into horizontal contact, resolving the contradiction between reliability and time.
Solution Approach 2:
The lateral edges act as intermediaries that facilitate the transition from angled positioning to horizontal connection. The geometric design of these edges allows them to guide the panels into correct alignment during the connection phase, eliminating the need for manual precision positioning over long distances and reducing installation time while maintaining connection stability.
3Ease of operation
If new panel is connected to two already installed panels via simultaneous raising and angling, then interconnection is achieved, but instability causes panel disengagement
Solution Approach 1:
The complex simultaneous operation of raising and angling is segmented into sequential steps: first connecting to one panel during the levering phase, then connecting to the second panel during the connection phase. This segmentation eliminates the instability caused by simultaneous multi-point engagement, as each connection is established independently and stably before the next begins, while maintaining ease of operation through simplified sequential actions.
Data Source
AI summary
Interconnectable panels having tongue-and-groove connections are mechanically connected to each other by first moving two panels into an intermediate position and then pivoting one panel with respect to the other. The underside of the tongue of one panel has a depression, while the groove of another panel has a protruding lower lip. The lower lip has a projection that fits in the depression when the two panels are in the intermediate position.