Removable Intermediate Rib Section for Deck Panel Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing deck panels require unsightly holes or removal of entire panels for access, disrupting structural integrity and aesthetic appearance, and do not provide sufficient access for repairs and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A deck panel assembly with three rib sections, where a removable intermediate section defines an access port between the first and second sections, connected by L-shaped support members that maintain structural integrity and appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an access port is created by cutting a hole or removing an entire panel, then access to materials above the panel is achieved, but the structural strength and aesthetic appearance of the panel are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The panel is divided into modular sections with removable ribs. Each rib can be independently removed to create an access port, while the remaining rib sections maintain the structural integrity of the panel. This segmentation allows access without compromising overall panel strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The removable ribs are designed with specific local characteristics that differ from permanent structural elements. These ribs can be easily detached and reattached, providing localized access while the permanent rib sections maintain the panel's structural strength and aesthetic appearance.
2Ease of operation
If an access port is created by cutting a hole or removing an entire panel, then access to materials above the panel is achieved, but the aesthetic appearance of the panel is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The removable ribs are designed to match the aesthetic characteristics of the permanent rib sections. When reattached, they restore the panel's original appearance. This allows aesthetic preservation while enabling access when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel's rib structure is segmented into removable and permanent sections. The removable sections can be taken away to provide access, then replaced to restore the panel's aesthetic appearance, minimizing visual disruption.
3Ease of operation
If the access port is made large enough to effectively access all materials above the panel, then sufficient access is provided, but the structural integrity of the panel is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The panel is segmented into multiple rib sections that can be independently removed. This allows the creation of a sufficiently large access port by removing multiple adjacent ribs, while the remaining permanent rib sections maintain the panel's structural integrity and stability.
Data Source
AI summary
A deck panel assembly that includes a deck panel having an upper surface and a bottom surface and includes a first section, a second section, and an intermediate section defined between the first section and the second section. Each section includes at least one longitudinal extending rib portion. A pair of spaced apart support members connects the first section, the intermediate section, and the second section to each other, wherein the intermediate section is adapted to be removed from between the first section and the second section of said deck panel and from between the spaced apart support members, thereby defining an access port therein.