Seamless Corner Panels With Friction-Based Securement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Modular building systems face challenges in achieving energy efficiency and structural stability, particularly at seam or joint regions, where energy losses occur, and existing solutions do not provide simultaneous alignment and securement of panels without additional locking mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

The modular building system employs prefabricated wall panels with interconnecting rail systems that align and secure panels at edges, forming energy-efficient seams and corners, using a friction-based mechanism for securement without additional locking components, and includes conduits with input/output openings for electrical and plumbing integration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional building corners and joint regions are used in modular structures, then assembly is simpler, but energy losses occur at seam regions and structural integrity fails under shear forces from wind or seismic events

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidenergy loss at seams

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines corner panels and joint regions with continuous insulation layers that integrate seamlessly into the panel structure. The insulation extends through the joint regions and is covered by weather-resistant barriers, merging the thermal envelope with the structural joints to eliminate thermal bridges and energy losses at seam regions while maintaining structural integrity under shear forces

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses composite construction with structural panels combined with continuous insulation layers and weather-resistant barriers. The corner panels incorporate multiple material layers including insulating materials and structural elements that work together to provide both thermal efficiency and structural strength to resist wind and seismic shear forces

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Stability of the object's composition

If additional locking mechanisms are added to secure panels at joints, then structural stability improves, but device complexity and assembly time increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepanel securementVSAvoidlocking mechanisms

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs friction-based securement where the pressure between adjacent panel surfaces and the rail system automatically locks panels in place without additional locking mechanisms. The system uses the panels' own weight and the friction force generated by their interaction with the rail to maintain structural stability, eliminating the need for complex external locking devices

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical locking systems with a friction-based securement mechanism. Instead of using locks, bolts, or clips, the system relies on friction forces generated between the panel surfaces and the rail system to hold panels securely in place, simplifying the overall structure and reducing assembly complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If friction-based securement is used without additional locking components, then device complexity decreases and assembly is quicker, but securement reliability may be insufficient under extreme conditions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveassembly speedVSAvoidsecurement under extreme conditions

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent optimizes friction parameters by controlling surface characteristics, contact pressure, and material properties of the panels and rail system. By adjusting these parameters, the friction-based securement generates sufficient holding force to maintain panel stability under extreme wind and seismic conditions while keeping the system simple and quick to assemble

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enhances friction-based securement at critical locations such as corner panels and joint regions where shear forces are highest. The corner panels are specifically designed with features that increase friction and contact area at these vulnerable locations, providing localized reinforcement without adding complex locking mechanisms throughout the entire structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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

This solution enables the creation of stable, energy-efficient modular structures that can withstand natural elements and seismic events, with seamless, insulated corners and joints, allowing for quick assembly and installation, and providing structural integrity and energy efficiency without additional securement mechanisms.

Implementation Method 1

energy efficient seams that provide for simultaneous alignment and friction-based securement of the panels at the joints

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS8539732B2Structural building panels with seamless corners

Publication Date: 2013.09.24 ECO PANELS LLC

AI summary

Systems and methods providing a modular building having pre-fabricated panel wall components are easily assembled to form a predetermined structure including energy efficient corner modular components that provide for seamless, energy-efficient corners with structural strength.