Temperature controlled structure assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional materials used for flooring structures become unsafe due to extreme temperature conditions and snow/ice accumulation, and existing heating/cooling systems are complex, difficult to install, and not suitable for complex configurations like staircases and ramps.
Innovation Solution
A temperature-controlled structure assembly comprising structural and functional panels with channels for heat exchanging elements, allowing for customizable and complex three-dimensional structures that can heat or cool surfaces, with a fluid conduit system or electrical elements for temperature regulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional materials (composite materials, wood, pre-cast concrete, brick) are used for flooring structures, then structural stability and favorable appearance are achieved, but the materials become too hot in high ambient temperatures and too cold in low ambient temperatures, creating unsafe walking conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The flooring structure is divided into modular panels that can be independently configured and assembled. Each panel contains integrated heating/cooling channels, allowing the temperature control system to be segmented across multiple discrete units rather than requiring a monolithic installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The temperature control system is merged directly into the structural panels themselves. The channels for heat exchange are formed within the panels during manufacturing, combining the structural support function with the thermal regulation function in a single integrated component.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional snow removal methods (scraping utensils, snow shovels, salt) are used, then snow and ice can be removed from surfaces, but damage to the traditional materials occurs and environmental hazards are created
Solution Approach 1:
The heating elements activate before snow and ice can accumulate to dangerous levels, preventing hazardous conditions rather than requiring mechanical or chemical removal afterward. The system proactively maintains safe surface temperatures to avoid snow/ice accumulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system converts the harmful effect of cold temperatures and snow accumulation into a beneficial heating function. By embedding heating channels within the panels, the structure actively counteracts the cold environment that would otherwise require damaging removal methods.
3Temperature
If available heating/cooling systems are installed, then temperature control of floor surfaces is achieved, but the installation process is complex and the systems cannot be easily altered or replaced
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into discrete, pre-manufactured panels that can be independently installed and replaced. Each panel contains its own integrated channels and heating/cooling elements, eliminating the need for complex on-site installation of continuous piping systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The panels are designed as universal modules that can be used in various configurations and locations. The standardized channel configurations allow the same panel design to be used across different applications, simplifying installation and replacement procedures.
4Temperature
If available heating/cooling systems are used, then temperature regulation is possible, but the systems cannot be configured for complex three-dimensional structures like staircases and ramps
Solution Approach 1:
The flooring system is segmented into individual panels that can be independently configured to create complex three-dimensional structures. Each panel maintains its temperature control capability regardless of its position in the overall structure, enabling adaptation to staircases, ramps, and other non-planar configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel system transitions from two-dimensional flat flooring to three-dimensional configurations by stacking and angling panels. The channels within each panel maintain thermal effectiveness regardless of the panel's orientation or position in space, enabling temperature control in complex spatial arrangements.
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
Enables safe and comfortable use of outdoor and indoor structures by regulating temperature, allowing for easy maintenance and adaptation of the exposed surface without requiring extensive renovation, and can be applied to various configurations including staircases and ramps.
Implementation Method 1
A heat exchanging element is disposed in each of the channels and is configured to exchange heat with at least one of the functional panels
Implementation Method 2
A conduit is disposed within the channel formed in each of the structural panels for conveying a first fluid therethrough, the first fluid configured to exchange heat with the functional panel
Data Source
AI summary
A temperature controlled structure assembly comprises an array of structural panels each including at least one channel formed therein. At least one channel of each of the structural panels is aligned with at least one of the channels of an adjacent one of the structural panels to form a continuous channel extending through the array of the structural panels. At least one functional panel overlays the array of structural panels and is exposed for contact with a user. At least one heat exchanging element is disposed within the continuous channel and configured to exchange heat with the at least one functional panel in order to heat or cool the at least one functional panel.