Panel Support System Using Segmented Resin Barriers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing panel support systems are not robust enough to withstand shockwaves from events like terrorist incidents, as they distribute force over a large area, causing significant torque on the support mechanisms, and are not easily adjustable for non-horizontal surfaces.

Innovation Solution

A panel support system with a longitudinal trough, gripping parts, and adjustable parts that apply force to secure the panel vertically, using resilient barrier units and adjustable joints to distribute force effectively and maintain panel alignment, even on uneven surfaces, and reduce resin usage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If resin is applied along the entire length of the trough to secure the panel, then the panel support robustness against shockwaves is improved, but the quantity of resin required increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepanel support robustnessVSAvoidresin quantity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the continuous resin application into discrete segments by positioning barrier units at specific intervals along the trough. These barrier units create separate resin pockets that collectively provide shockwave resistance while using significantly less resin than a continuous application would require. The barrier units are placed at strategic locations to segment the resin into manageable sections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The barrier units are pre-positioned in the trough before resin application, creating predetermined zones where resin will be contained. This preliminary placement ensures that when resin is applied, it is automatically distributed in the correct locations to provide structural support, eliminating the need for continuous resin application along the entire trough length.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Manufacturing precision

If the trough is precisely aligned on a horizontal surface to ensure vertical panel alignment, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the adaptability to non-horizontal surfaces deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepanel vertical alignmentVSAvoidadaptability to non-horizontal surfaces
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates adjustable support elements within the trough structure that can be modified after installation to accommodate varying surface conditions. These adjustable components allow the trough to maintain proper orientation and panel vertical alignment even when installed on non-horizontal surfaces, providing both precision and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system allows for adjustment of key parameters such as support height and angle after the trough is installed on the surface. By changing these parameters, the system can compensate for surface irregularities and ensure proper panel alignment regardless of the initial surface horizontality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If adjustable mechanisms are added to allow panel alignment adjustment after insertion, then the adaptability to non-horizontal surfaces is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustability for non-horizontal surfacesVSAvoidsupport mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements adjustment capabilities at specific localized points within the trough rather than requiring complex adjustment mechanisms throughout the entire structure. By concentrating adjustment functionality at key locations, the system achieves adaptability to non-horizontal surfaces while minimizing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The adjustable support elements are designed to be easily modified by the installer during installation without requiring specialized tools or complex procedures. The self-adjusting features allow the system to adapt to surface conditions through simple operations, reducing the need for complex external adjustment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 system enhances the robustness of panel support against shockwaves and allows for easier adjustment and alignment, maintaining panel stability and reducing resin application, while being usable with panels of varying thicknesses and surfaces.

Implementation Method 1

at least one pair of resilient barrier units configured to be placed in the trough at opposing ends of the adjustment part to prevent liquid resin flowing along a length of the trough

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhysical barrier: Physical Containment

Implementation Method 2

a force being applied by the second joint surface onto the first joint surface, resulting in the gripping part gripping the panel and urging the panel toward the base of the trough

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical force: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 3

pivoting of the panel within the trough about an axis parallel to a longitudinal length of the trough

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPivoting: Hinge

Data Source

PatentUS10718117B2Panel support system and method
Publication Date: 2020.07.21 PURE VISTA
  • US10718117B2 patent drawing
  • US10718117B2 patent drawing
  • US10718117B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Panel support systems that allow for adjustability are not necessarily as robust as some non-adjustable systems. The present invention is a system for adjusting alignment of a flat panel 1 that includes at least one pair of resilient barrier units 21 configured to be placed in a trough 3 at opposing ends of an adjustment part 11. Liquid resin 29 may then be inserted between the barrier units 21 and allowed to harden.