Steel Panel Thermal Insulation via Welded Connecting Flanges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for thermally insulating panels with steel elements face issues such as rust formation and inefficient assembly due to capillary action of rainwater and the costly, time-consuming process of providing clamping recesses in steel elements.
Innovation Solution
The system employs connecting elements with steel flanges fixed to steel surfaces via energy beam welding, allowing for a durable, water-tight coupling of thermally insulating parts to steel elements without the need for clamping recesses, using fiber-reinforced materials and stainless steel profiles for enhanced durability and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If clamping recesses are provided in steel elements to connect insulating parts, then the connection is achieved, but the manufacturing process becomes costly and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate functional components: steel elements provide structural support, insulating parts provide thermal insulation, and connecting elements (screws/bolts) provide the mechanical connection. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and assembled efficiently without requiring complex integrated features like clamping recesses.
Solution Approach 2:
Connecting elements act as intermediaries between the steel elements and insulating parts, enabling a simple, efficient connection without requiring complex integrated features in either component. The connecting elements mediate the connection function, allowing for rapid assembly while maintaining reliable mechanical attachment.
2Strength
If steel elements are used for structural support, then strength is achieved, but rust formation occurs due to capillary action of rainwater
Solution Approach 1:
The insulating parts serve as intermediary components between steel elements that are exposed to rainwater. These insulating parts break the continuous steel pathways that would otherwise allow capillary action to transport water to connection points, thereby preventing rust formation while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different materials are used in different locations based on their specific functional requirements: steel elements provide structural strength where needed, while insulating parts provide corrosion protection and thermal insulation in locations where they can interrupt water pathways and reduce heat transfer.
3Reliability
If multiple components are used to achieve water-tight coupling, then water-tightness is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The insulating parts function as intermediary components that simultaneously provide multiple functions: thermal insulation, corrosion protection by interrupting water pathways, and mechanical connection support. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The insulating parts are designed to perform multiple functions within a single component: providing thermal insulation, preventing corrosion by breaking capillary water pathways, and serving as a mounting surface for connecting elements. This universal approach reduces overall system complexity despite achieving multiple protective functions.
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 approach prevents rust formation and water penetration, reduces manufacturing time and costs, and achieves a durable, efficient assembly with improved water-tightness and stability.
Implementation Method 1
fixing treatment in which the connecting flange is integrally fixed to a steel surface by means of an energy beam welding treatment
Implementation Method 2
water may end up in the connecting face as a result of capillary action
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4
AI summary
A system provided with panels, for example glass sheets, and with substantially steel elements (1, 2, 3) extending parallel to edges of the panels, wherein thermally insulating parts (14) extend between said steel elements (1, 2, 3) and are connected by means of connecting means to connecting surfaces of the steel elements, wherein said connecting means comprise connecting element (11), which connecting elements (11) are each provided with a steel connecting flange (12).