Raised Access Floor Panel Replaceable Insert Z-Section
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing raised access floor systems require complete replacement or custom manufacturing to accommodate different manufacturers' components, making it costly and inconvenient to change configurations or view under-floor components without removing entire panels.
Innovation Solution
A raised access floor panel with a cross-braced framework and replaceable inserts, featuring a plate frame with a Z-section profile and expandable footprint, allowing for interchangeable fitment with various systems and enabling viewing of under-floor components without panel removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the entire floor panel is replaced to change the working surface configuration or view under-floor components, then the configuration change or monitoring is achieved, but the time and cost required for replacement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The floor panel is segmented into a permanent support framework and a removable working surface insert. The insert can be independently removed or replaced without affecting the underlying framework, allowing quick configuration changes and access to under-floor components while minimizing time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The working surface functionality is extracted from the permanent panel structure and placed in a separate removable insert. This allows the insert to be taken out for replacement or inspection without disturbing the support framework, enabling rapid configuration changes and monitoring of under-floor components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom manufactured panels are used to fit existing systems, then compatibility with existing systems is achieved, but the ability to sustain inventory for immediate shipment is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The support framework is designed with universal features including adjustable feet for different floor heights, standardized connection points, and modular geometry that can accommodate various insert configurations. This universality allows a single framework design to work with multiple insert types and adapt to different existing systems while maintaining standard inventory.
Solution Approach 2:
The framework allows for parameter adjustments such as vertical positioning of the working surface through adjustable feet, and configuration of the working surface type by swapping inserts. These parameter changes enable compatibility with different existing systems without requiring custom manufacturing, allowing standard inventory to be used.
3Strength
If solid surface or perforated surface panels are used, then structural integrity is maintained, but the ability to easily access and monitor under-floor components is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The floor system is segmented into a permanent structural framework that maintains strength and a removable working surface insert that provides access. The framework retains full structural integrity while the separate insert can be quickly removed to monitor or service under-floor components without compromising the supporting structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The working surface function is extracted into a removable insert that can be taken out to access under-floor components. The permanent framework continues to provide structural support while the extractable insert enables easy monitoring and maintenance of valves, pipes, cables and other under-floor elements.
Data Source
AI summary
A raised access floor panel with a replaceable insert is provided. The panel includes a cross-braced framework constructed of four side rail members, and at least one cross-brace member. The cross-brace member is connected to the rail members so that the cross-brace member spans an area defined by the rail members. A plate frame is connected to an upper edge of the framework. The plate frame has a centroid void area which is surrounded by a peripheral portion. The peripheral portion includes an inner margin and an outer margin. The outer margin has right-angled corner forming portions. The inner margin is formed with a Z-section profile having a web portion which is capable of receiving the panel insert in fitment with the plate frame so that the insert and the peripheral portion are capable of providing a co-planar working surface.