Surface Covering Bracket System for Stable Anchoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surface covering structures in construction, such as metal panel systems, face issues with mechanical stability under external forces, insufficient waterproofing, and complex assembly processes, leading to potential detachment and water infiltration.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising first and second panels with unique coupling portions and a combined anchoring and fixing bracket system that provides stable interlocking and anchoring to the load-bearing structure, enhancing mechanical stability and airtightness, while simplifying assembly through shape-coupling and recessed designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fixing brackets are used to anchor panels to the load-bearing structure, then the assembly process is simple, but the anchoring is insufficiently robust to withstand strong wind currents and lifting forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the fixing bracket and anchoring bracket into a single integrated component. The fixing bracket includes both the fixing portion that anchors to the load-bearing structure and the coupling portion that connects to adjacent panels, eliminating the need for separate anchoring brackets and simplifying the overall bracket system while maintaining robust anchoring capability
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing bracket is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides anchoring to the load-bearing structure through the fixing portion, enables coupling with adjacent panels through the coupling portion, and ensures airtight sealing through the groove and cover structure. This multi-functional design reduces the number of separate components needed
2Reliability
If panels are coupled with recesses to channel rainwater, then water can be drained between coupling portions, but the coupling is not sufficiently airtight to prevent water passage during heavy rainfall
Solution Approach 1:
The cover structure is nested within the groove of the coupling portion, creating a layered sealing system. The groove provides the primary sealing path, while the cover structure nested within it provides an additional sealing barrier, ensuring airtight coupling even during heavy rainfall without requiring complex external sealing mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The cover structure acts as an intermediary element between the groove and the external environment, providing a sealing interface that prevents water infiltration while allowing the coupling portions to remain mechanically connected. This intermediary structure resolves the conflict between maintaining coupling integrity and achieving airtight sealing
3Productivity
If large panels are used to reduce the number of joints, then the number of assembly operations is reduced, but the panels are difficult to handle and couple correctly without forming water passage slots
Solution Approach 1:
The panel system is segmented into modular panels with standardized coupling portions that can be easily handled and connected. Each panel is designed with specific dimensions and coupling features that facilitate manual handling while maintaining large coverage area, allowing workers to assemble the roofing system efficiently without excessive panel weight or size
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling portions are pre-configured with grooves, covers, and interlocking features during manufacturing, so that during assembly, workers only need to perform simple connection operations. The airtight sealing features are pre-formed in the coupling portions, eliminating the need for complex field adjustments or additional sealing steps during assembly
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
Structure (1) for covering surfaces, comprising: a fixing bracket (4) having a connecting portion (19), stably anchorable to a load-bearing structure, and a coupling portion (18) integral with the connecting portion (19) and defining a concave seat; a first panel (2) and a second panel (3), each having a main portion (8) and, on opposite sides of said main portion (8), a first coupling portion (6) at least partially shaped, projecting from said main portion (8), and a second coupling portion (7) at least partially shaped, projecting from said main portion (8), wherein said first panel (2) further has an end relief (16) arranged adjacent to said first coupling portion (6); preferably the second coupling portion (7) of the second panel (3) being at least partially counter-shaped to the first coupling portion (6) of the first panel (2); wherein the coupling portion (18) of the fixing bracket (4) is configured to interpose, in a configuration of use, between the first panel (2) and the second panel (3) and to house said end relief (16) within said concave seat; the structure further comprising an anchoring bracket (5) fixable to the load-bearing structure comprising a cavity (20) for housing the connecting portion (19) of the fixing bracket (4).