Three Axis Clip System for Modular Wall Panel Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for attaching finish panels to modular walls lack locational adjustability, making it difficult to place panels in a desired location with the desired tolerance.
Innovation Solution
A three-axis clip system comprising an inverted U-shaped upper portion, a C-shaped lower portion, and middle portions that connect them, allowing for adjustable placement of finish panels in the x, y, and z directions through the use of adjustment screws and T-nuts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If typical attachment means are used for finish panels, then the installation process is simple, but locational adjustability is lacking making it difficult to place panels in desired locations with desired tolerance
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into multiple independent components: a wall-mounted base portion, a separate adjustable clip portion with upper and lower clips, and a panel mounting portion. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while providing overall adjustability through the relationship between components, resolving the contradiction between precision and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The clip system incorporates adjustable elements including the adjustable clip portion that can be positioned at different distances from the wall, and the panel mounting portion that can be adjusted along the extrusion groove. These dynamic adjustment capabilities enable precise panel placement while maintaining a relatively simple overall system structure through standardized adjustment mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable attachment systems are implemented to improve panel placement control, then locational adjustability increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clip system is designed with universal adjustment capabilities that allow the same basic structure to accommodate various panel positions and orientations. The adjustable clip portion can be positioned at multiple distances from the wall, and the extrusion groove allows movement in multiple directions, providing versatility without requiring multiple different attachment systems, thus managing complexity while enhancing adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The clip system employs a nested structure where the panel mounting portion fits within the clip portion, which in turn is mounted on the wall base. This nesting arrangement allows multiple adjustment functions to be integrated within a compact overall structure, providing high adaptability while minimizing the space and complexity required for the attachment system.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple adjustment mechanisms are added to achieve three-axis adjustability, then panel placement accuracy improves, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The clip system incorporates adjustment mechanisms that are pre-configured to provide cushioning or stopping points during the adjustment process. The extrusion groove and corresponding extrusion elements are designed to guide the panel into proper alignment and provide natural stopping points, reducing the need for complex locking mechanisms and making the adjustment process easier to operate while maintaining high placement accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to a clip system and methods for using same for the attachment of finish panels to modular walls. The clip system includes a lower portion for attachment to the modular wall, an upper portion with a receptacle for attaching the panel, and a middle portion connecting the upper and lower portions. The middle portion further allows movement between portions so that the clip system can be expanded in two axial directions for precise panel placement. Further panels can be adjusted about the upper portion in a third axial direction. Thus, the clip system facilitates panel positioning and attachment in an exact, three-dimensional location on the modular wall.