Resilient Edge-to-Edge Panel Connections for Structural Liners
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for repairing, restoring, reinforcing, protecting, and insulating structures often require excessive materials, leading to high costs and inefficiencies, particularly in addressing structural degradation due to corrosion, harsh environments, and material compatibility issues.
Innovation Solution
A stay-in-place lining system comprising connectable panels with complementary connector components that form a resilient edge-to-edge connection, allowing for the efficient application of concrete or other curable materials to reinforce and protect structures while minimizing material usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If previously known techniques are used for repairing structures, then structural integrity can be restored, but excessive amounts of material are required leading to high costs
Solution Approach 1:
The lining is divided into multiple panels that can be connected edge-to-edge, allowing the system to cover large surface areas while using minimal material. Each panel is a discrete unit that maintains structural integrity when connected to others, enabling modular repair approaches that reduce overall material requirements compared to traditional monolithic repair methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs thin panel structures that can be connected to form continuous linings. These thin-film panels provide the necessary protective function while dramatically reducing material consumption compared to traditional thick-layer repair approaches. The panels are designed to be flexible enough to conform to structural surfaces while maintaining sufficient rigidity for structural reinforcement.
2Reliability
If edge-to-edge connections between panels are created, then a secure seal is achieved, but the connection mechanism adds device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The connector components are integrated directly into the panel structures themselves, merging the connection function with the panel body. This eliminates the need for separate, complex joining mechanisms and reduces overall device complexity. The protrusion and receptacle features are formed as part of the panel manufacturing process, creating a unified structure that provides both sealing and structural connection functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The edge-to-edge connection mechanism is designed to be self-aligning and self-sealing. The protrusion fits into the receptacle with inherent guidance features that automatically align panels during installation, eliminating the need for complex alignment tools or procedures. The resilient sealant material automatically seals gaps as panels are connected, providing self-service sealing without additional mechanisms.
3Reliability
If resilient sealant material is used in edge-to-edge connections, then a leak-tight seal is achieved, but the sealant material adds to the overall complexity of the connection system
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system combines rigid structural components (protrusion and receptacle) with a flexible sealant material to create a composite connection system. The rigid portions provide structural integrity and alignment, while the sealant material provides leak-tight sealing. This composite approach achieves superior seal performance without significantly increasing complexity, as the sealant is applied as a simple layer within the connection interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealant material undergoes parameter changes during installation, transitioning from a soft, pliable state during application to a cured, rigid state that provides permanent sealing. This parameter change allows the sealant to adapt to manufacturing tolerances and installation variations, achieving leak-tight seals without requiring precision mechanisms. The curing process transforms the sealant from a complex handling material to a simple, stable sealing component.
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 enables effective repair, restoration, and protection of structures with reduced material consumption, enhancing structural integrity and durability while maintaining a secure and leak-tight seal, suitable for various environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient sealant material in the form of a strip of material having a generally rectangular cross-section and comprising a gap-filling portion and an exterior portion
Implementation Method 2
the receptacle resiliently deformed by the extension of the protrusion into the receptacle to thereby apply a restorative force to the protrusion to maintain the edge-to-edge connection
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3~4A
AI summary
A stay-in-place lining is provided for lining a structure fabricated from concrete. The lining comprises a plurality of panels connectable via complementary connector components on their longitudinal edges. Each panel comprises a first connector component on a first longitudinal edge thereof and a second (complementary) connector component on a second longitudinal edge thereof. The lining comprises at least one edge-to-edge connection between the first connector component of a first panel and the second connector component of a second panel, the edge-to-edge connection comprising a protrusion of the first panel extended into a receptacle of the second panel through a receptacle opening. The receptacle is shaped to prevent removal of the protrusion from the receptacle and the receptacle is resiliently deformed by the extension of the protrusion into the receptacle to thereby apply a restorative force to the protrusion to maintain the edge-to-edge connection.