Spline Joint for Container Panels Using Contoured Edges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container joint technologies require numerous fasteners like screws or rivets for assembly, which can be cumbersome and inefficient, especially in large-scale container structures.
Innovation Solution
A container assembly method using contoured edges and splines with complementary profiles and channels, where the spline's channels receive the contoured edges of panels, and adhesive is applied to secure the joint, eliminating the need for extensive fastening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If numerous fasteners like screws or rivets are used for assembling container wall panels, then the joint strength and structural integrity are improved, but the device complexity and assembly time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes fasteners (screws, rivets, bolts) from the joint assembly process entirely. Instead of using multiple fastening components, the invention uses a spline member with contoured surfaces that mate with complementary contoured edges on panels, eliminating the need for separate fastening elements while maintaining joint strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the functions of multiple components into a single spline member. The spline integrates the positioning, alignment, and fastening functions that were previously performed by separate fasteners, panel edges, and spacing elements into one unified component that secures panels through its contoured profile engagement.
2Reliability
If numerous fasteners are used to secure container panels, then the reliability of the joint is improved, but the assembly time and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the joint connection into two main functional parts: the contoured edges on panels and the spline member with complementary channels. This segmentation allows for simplified assembly where the spline is inserted into pre-formed contoured edges, eliminating the need for sequential fastener installation while maintaining reliable connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates preliminary action by pre-forming the contoured edges on panel surfaces during panel manufacturing. These pre-formed contoured edges are designed to receive the spline member, allowing for rapid assembly without requiring on-site fabrication or complex alignment procedures, thus improving productivity while ensuring reliable joints.
3Strength
If traditional fastening systems with multiple screws or rivets are used, then the structural integrity of container joints is maintained, but the manufacturing cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical fastening system (screws, rivets, bolts requiring holes, threading, and multiple components) with a geometric interlocking system using contoured surfaces. The spline member's contoured profile engages with complementary contoured edges through friction and geometric constraint, providing structural integrity without the complexity of traditional mechanical fasteners.
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 method provides a secure, efficient, and simplified assembly process for container panels, reducing the complexity and cost associated with traditional fastening systems while maintaining structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the first and second contoured profiles includes a concavity containing an adhesive that bonds a surface of the respective first and second contoured profiles with a surface of the interior profile of the respective first and second channels of the spline
Data Source
AI summary
A container including a first panel with a first edge having a first protrusion with a first contoured profile with at least one projection, a second panel with a second edge having a second protrusion with a second contoured profile with at least one projection, and a spline with a first channel that defines a recess with an interior profile, and a second channel separate from the first channel that defines a recess with an interior profile. The first and second channels receive the first and second protrusions, respectively, such that the first contoured profile is complementary to a portion of the interior profile and the second contoured profile is complementary to a portion of the interior profile. The first and second panel include a mid-section extending from the first and second edges, respectively. The first and second edges have a greater thickness than the thickness of the mid-sections.