Interlocking Panel Profiles for Low-Force Angled Uncoupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing panels with vertical interlocking profiles require substantial force for uncoupling, risking damage and are cumbersome, especially during replacement or repositioning.
Innovation Solution
The panels feature mutually interacting profiles that allow coupling by vertical insertion and uncoupling by a downward angling movement, utilizing complementary shapes and coatings to reduce mechanical resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If panels are coupled by vertical insertion establishing interlocking in horizontal and vertical directions, then coupling strength and stability are improved, but uncoupling requires substantial force and risks damage
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is segmented into two distinct functional parts: vertical interlocking profiles for secure coupling and horizontal angling movement capability for easy uncoupling. The profile is divided into a coupling portion establishing vertical interlocking and a release portion enabling horizontal disengagement, allowing independent optimization of coupling strength and uncoupling ease.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring vertical extraction (reverse of coupling) to uncouple the panels, the invention inverts the uncoupling mechanism by enabling horizontal angling movement. The profiles are designed to interlock vertically for coupling but allow horizontal disengagement through angling, reversing the conventional approach where uncoupling follows the reverse path of coupling.
2Reliability
If vertical interlocking profiles are used to establish secure coupling, then coupling reliability is improved, but uncoupling becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system transitions from a static vertical interlocking mechanism to a dynamic system that accommodates both vertical coupling and horizontal uncoupling movements. The profiles are designed with geometric features that allow the connection to be rigid in the vertical direction during coupling while permitting controlled angular movement in the horizontal direction for quick release.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds a horizontal dimension to the uncoupling process. While coupling occurs in the vertical dimension through insertion, uncoupling is achieved by introducing horizontal angling movement. This dimensional transition allows the profiles to disengage without requiring reverse vertical extraction, significantly reducing uncoupling time.
3Ease of operation
If substantial force is applied to extract panels vertically, then uncoupling can be achieved, but damage risk to profiles increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the mechanical extraction system (vertical force application) with an angular disengagement system. Instead of applying substantial vertical force to overcome interlocking, the profiles are designed to release through controlled horizontal angling movement, substituting high-force linear extraction with low-force rotational/displacement motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operational parameters of uncoupling from high-force vertical extraction to low-force horizontal angling. By modifying the direction and magnitude of the applied force (from substantial vertical force to minimal horizontal displacement), the system achieves uncoupling while preserving profile integrity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a panel suitable as a floor, ceiling or wall panel, which panel is of a planar design having an upper side, a bottom side and side edges. Furthermore, the invention relates to a covering comprising a plurality of interconnected panels according to the invention. The invention also relates to a method of uncoupling two (or more) interconnected panels.