Metal Partition Panel Groove Structure for Flexible Cupboard Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interior space partitioning systems lack flexibility and load capacity when it comes to securely suspending cupboards or other structures, as they rely on standard components that do not efficiently accommodate varying bracket positions.
Innovation Solution
A panel system comprising a metal sheet with a rear-mounted metal bolster forming a horizontal groove, which securely and releasably receives a bracket for suspending cupboards, featuring a steel construction with specific flanges and lips for enhanced structural support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If standard components are used for interior space partitioning, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but load capacity and flexibility for suspending cupboards deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the panel and bolster into a single integrated unit where the bolster is permanently attached to the rear face of the panel. This combination creates a unified structure that provides both the aesthetic panel surface and the load-bearing groove structure, resolving the contradiction by achieving high load capacity through integration while maintaining manufacturing efficiency through standardized production processes for the combined unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite structure combining the panel material with the bolster material to create a hybrid component. The bolster provides enhanced structural properties for load-bearing applications while the panel portion maintains its aesthetic and partitioning functions. This composite approach allows the system to achieve superior load capacity compared to standard components while remaining cost-effective through efficient manufacturing of the composite unit.
2Device complexity
If standard components are used for interior space partitioning, then device complexity is reduced, but flexibility for locating brackets deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal panel-bolster assembly that serves multiple functions: aesthetic partitioning, structural support, and adaptable bracket mounting. The horizontal groove structure provides a standardized interface that can accommodate various bracket types and positions, making the system versatile for different applications while maintaining relatively simple component design. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by achieving flexibility through standardized adaptability rather than complex customization.
3Strength
If horizontal grooves are added to panels for suspending cupboards, then load capacity improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the load-bearing function from the panel's aesthetic function by introducing a separate bolster component that attaches to the rear face. This segmentation allows the panel to remain simple and visually clean while the bolster provides the specialized horizontal groove structure for load-bearing. The segmentation resolves the contradiction by concentrating structural complexity in a dedicated component rather than complicating the entire panel design.
Data Source
AI summary
An improved panel is disclosed. The panel is of the type for use with a bracket and which, in use: forms a wall surface as part of an assembly for partitioning or dividing a space; defines a horizontal groove; and is adapted to releasably, securely, receive, via the horizontal groove, said bracket. The improvement comprises a metal sheet and a metal bolster. The metal sheet has a front and a rear face, the front face defining said wall surface in use and said sheet defining a horizontal slot in use. The metal bolster is secured to the rear face of said metal sheet to define, in combination with the metal sheet, said horizontal groove.