Panel Support With One-Sided Wedge Blocking Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing panel supports, particularly for glazed panels, require adjustments on both sides, making it uncomfortable and inconvenient, especially when adjustments need to be made on exposed sides, necessitating protective measures.
Innovation Solution
A support system for panels that allows easy installation and adjustment by acting on one side, featuring a base with a seat and a blocking device with a concave cradle and wedge-shaped elements for secure blocking, using a screw mechanism to slide the wedge-shaped element and intermediate blocking elements to secure the panel on one side, while an abutment element on the other side ensures stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If adjustments are made on both sides of the panel, then the panel blocking is stable and secure, but the operation becomes uncomfortable and requires protective measures on exposed sides
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the adjustment function from both sides and concentrates it on one side only. The one-sided adjustment device includes a movable blocking element that can be actuated from a single side to block the panel, eliminating the need for adjustments on the opposite exposed side while maintaining secure blocking.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary mechanism - a movable blocking element with wedge-shaped profile that transmits the adjustment force from the accessible side to the panel. This intermediary element slides within a guide channel and applies blocking force through its inclined surface, allowing one-sided operation while achieving two-sided blocking效果.
2Ease of operation
If a one-sided adjustment device is used, then the ease of operation is improved, but the blocking stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking element is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to be dynamically adjusted from one side. The element can slide along a guide channel and be positioned at different locations to achieve the desired blocking force, providing both operational ease and reliable blocking when engaged.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking element features a wedge-shaped profile with an inclined surface that converts the adjustment motion into blocking force. The curved or inclined geometry of the wedge allows small adjustments to generate significant blocking force, ensuring stable panel positioning despite the one-sided operation constraint.
3Ease of manufacture
If the cradle is made as a single integrated piece, then the manufacturing is simpler, but the ease of repair and replacement is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cradle is divided into separate components: a fixed cradle body and a movable blocking element that can be independently replaced. This segmentation allows the blocking element to be removed and replaced without replacing the entire cradle assembly, facilitating easier maintenance and repair while keeping the manufacturing of each individual component relatively simple.
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 easy, stable, and durable blocking of panels with one-sided adjustment, eliminating the need for adjustments on exposed sides, thus improving safety and convenience during installation.
Implementation Method 1
a first side blocking unit interposed between the flank side element and the first side of the seat, the blocking unit comprising at least one wedge-shaped element slidable on the outside of the flank element of the cradle
Implementation Method 2
an adjustment screw screwed in a specifically threaded hole provided through the wedge-shaped element
Data Source
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AI summary
Support for a panel comprising 1) a support base defining a seat for housing the edge area of the panel, the seat having a underside, two opposite sides extending from the underside, and an opening for inserting the panel into the seat, the opening being provided at the ends of the sides, a first side comprising a respective undercut portion with respect to its own end, 2) at least one blocking device for blocking the panel to the support base, the device being interposed between the panel and the support base, and comprising a concave cradle for housing the end of the edge of the panel.