Pre-assembled Terracotta Cladding Panel with Metal Frame

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing methods for terracotta cladding in building construction are time-consuming, labor-intensive, and expensive, requiring specialized labor for the installation of composite facing plates with hollow cores and thin stone coverings.

Innovation Solution

A pre-assembled cladding panel with high thermal insulation, comprising a rigid rectangular insulating plate covered with terracotta facings and assembled within a rectangular metal structure, using tenons and mortises for interlocking and a method for easy installation and repair, allowing for various decorative shapes and easy replacement of damaged elements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If composite facing plates with hollow cores and thin stone coverings are installed one by one to horizontal metal stringers, then the cladding can be securely fixed to the building structure, but the installation process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive requiring specialized labor

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure fixationVSAvoidinstallation speed

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The cladding system is divided into modular pre-assembled panels, each comprising multiple terracotta facing plates fixed to a rigid insulating plate with metal framing. This segmentation allows factory pre-assembly of complete cladding sections that can be rapidly installed as single units, eliminating the need for on-site assembly of individual plates while maintaining secure fixation through the rigid metal structure surrounding each panel.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The complete cladding assembly including insulating plate, terracotta facings, and metal framing is pre-assembled in the factory before delivery to the construction site. This preliminary action transfers the complex assembly work to controlled factory conditions, enabling rapid on-site installation by simply mounting complete panels to the building structure, thus dramatically improving productivity without compromising fixation reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If composite facing plates are assembled on-site with hollow cores and thin stone coverings, then the cladding can be customized to fit specific building contours, but the process requires expensive specialized labor and increases construction costs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecustomization capabilityVSAvoidconstruction cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The cladding system uses standardized modular panels that can be easily adapted to different building configurations. Each panel is self-contained with fixed dimensions and can be arranged in various patterns, allowing customization of building facades without requiring complex on-site assembly or specialized labor, thus reducing construction costs while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The pre-assembled panel design creates a universal cladding system where standardized components can serve multiple building types and architectural styles. The rigid metal framing and modular construction allow the same panel design to be adapted to different building contours and requirements, eliminating the need for expensive custom fabrication while preserving design flexibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Loss of energy

If traditional composite cladding plates are used with hollow cores, then the structure can provide thermal insulation, but the installation process is complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvethermal insulationVSAvoidinstallation time

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The invention merges the thermal insulation function and the cladding facing into a single integrated pre-assembled panel. The rigid insulating plate serves as the core structural element, with terracotta facings and metal framing pre-attached in the factory. This combination eliminates the need for separate insulation installation and cladding assembly steps on-site, dramatically reducing installation time while maintaining effective thermal insulation performance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

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 solution provides a cost-effective, efficient, and aesthetically versatile terracotta cladding system with improved thermal insulation and ease of installation and repair, reducing labor costs and enhancing decorative options.

Implementation Method 1

a rigid rectangular plate made of an insulating material with high thermal resistance

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal insulation: Thermal Insulation

Implementation Method 2

assembled by tenons and mortises

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical interlocking: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentEP2719844B1Pre-assembled cladding panel and method of mounting and repairing therefor

Publication Date: 2017.10.11 TERREAL

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AI summary

Pre-assembled cladding panel (1) with high thermal insulation consisting of a rigid rectangular plate (10) made of high thermal resistance insulation, covered with terracotta facings (20) with longitudinal cells (21), the whole being encircled and assembled by a rectangular metal structure consisting of two lateral uprights (4) to which are fixed two upper and lower rails (3), these rails (3) being fitted with tabs (31) which penetrate into the cells (21) of the facings (20).