Signage Panel With Slide Lock Base Channel
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Solution Overview
Problem
In retail environments, existing signage and display systems are often heavy, costly, and require significant structural support, making them difficult to install and change, especially in high-ceilinged spaces where they may interfere with infrastructure, and there is a need for lightweight, inexpensive, and aesthetically pleasing solutions that can be quickly erected and torn down.
Innovation Solution
A signage panel system comprising a panel element with tabs and a base element with channels, secured by a planar slide lock element that slides into the tab slot and channel, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly without traditional fasteners, using laminated foam board for lightweight and cost-effective construction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional heavy structural elements and hoists are used for overhead panels, then the panels achieve desired structural stability and visibility, but the installation cost increases and installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The signage system is divided into modular components: frame members with integrated mounting features, interchangeable face panels, and base elements with channels. This segmentation allows each component to be independently manufactured, installed, and replaced without requiring heavy structural support or complex installation equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate mounting features such as channels formed in base elements and corresponding protrusions on frame members. These intermediary structures serve as mediators between the signage components and the ceiling suspension system, enabling secure attachment without requiring heavy structural elements or hoists.
2Strength
If heavy structural elements are mounted to the ceiling for overhead panels, then the panels achieve sufficient support, but the weight of the display increases and installation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs thin-walled frame members with optimized cross-sectional geometry and lightweight face panels that provide sufficient structural strength while minimizing weight. The frame members incorporate integrated mounting features that distribute loads efficiently, eliminating the need for heavy structural reinforcement.
Solution Approach 2:
The signage system utilizes composite construction combining lightweight materials with strategic reinforcement. The frame members may incorporate composite structures that provide high strength-to-weight ratio, and the interchangeable face panels use materials optimized for both weight reduction and visual impact.
3Strength
If traditional fasteners are used to secure panels, then the connection strength is sufficient, but the ease of assembly and disassembly decreases and installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic connection mechanisms such as slide locks that can be easily engaged and disengaged. The slide lock element features a sliding action that transitions between locked and unlocked positions, providing secure connection during operation while enabling rapid assembly and disassembly when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The signage system incorporates self-aligning and self-securing features. The channels and protrusions are designed to automatically align during assembly, and the slide locks engage automatically when components are properly positioned, eliminating the need for complex fastening procedures or specialized tools.
4Strength
If permanent signage structures are installed in high-ceilinged spaces, then the signage achieves stability and visibility, but the adaptability to change decreases and installation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The signage system is modular with interchangeable face panels and standardized frame members. This segmentation allows different informational content to be quickly swapped while maintaining the stable structural framework, providing both stability and adaptability to changing marketing needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame members and base elements are designed with universal mounting features that can accommodate various types of face panels and signage configurations. The standardized channels and protrusions create a universal interface system that enables multiple functions and easy reconfiguration without requiring structural modifications.
Data Source
AI summary
A signage panel system comprises a panel element and a base element. The panel element has at least one tab formed on an edge and the tab including a slot formed therein. The base element including at least one channel formed therein wherein the channel is configured to receive the tab of the panel element when the panel element engages with the base element. A planar slide lock element fits into the tab slot of the panel element and slides in the tab slot. The channel has a wide section and a narrow section adjacent the wide section, the tab configured for engaging the channel with the slide lock element positioned in the wide section of the channel. The slide lock element sliding in the tab slot and in the channel to engage the narrow section and secure the panel element with the base element.