U-Profile Cladding Mounting System for Reduced Panel Gaps

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mounting systems for cladding panels are less suited for interior applications due to a larger gap between panels and a higher wall-to-panel-distance, which reduces interior living space and is aesthetically unattractive.

Innovation Solution

A mounting system comprising joined U-shaped profiles that allow for a reduced gap between panels and a lower wall-to-panel-distance, enabling universal use for start, middle, and end panels, as well as angled mounting arrangements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If exterior mounting systems are used for interior cladding, then the mounting system can support heavy panels, but the gap between panels becomes large (10-20 mm) and wall-to-panel-distance is excessive (>30 mm)

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveload bearing capacityVSAvoidgap between panels

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting system is divided into multiple U-shaped profiles (U1, U2, U3, U4) that are joined together to form a modular assembly. This segmentation allows each profile to contribute to load bearing while the overall structure achieves compact dimensions suitable for interior applications with minimal gaps and wall-to-panel distances.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple U-shaped profiles are merged into a single integrated mounting assembly through joining elements. This combination enables the system to simultaneously achieve high load bearing capacity (equivalent to exterior systems) and compact geometry (suitable for interior applications with reduced gaps).

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Strength

If exterior mounting systems are used for interior cladding, then the mounting system can support heavy panels, but the wall-to-panel-distance becomes excessive (>30 mm) reducing interior living space

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveload bearing capacityVSAvoidwall-to-panel-distance

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If traditional mounting systems are used for cladding panels, then the installation is simple, but three different mounting systems are needed for start panel, middle panels, and end panels

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation simplicityVSAvoidnumber of mounting system variants

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The U-shaped profile mounting system is designed as a universal component that can be used for all panel positions (start, middle, end) and various wall configurations (flat, angled). This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple specialized mounting systems while maintaining installation simplicity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting system incorporates adjustable and adaptable features that allow the same U-shaped profile to function dynamically in different positions and configurations. This flexibility enables a single mounting system design to replace multiple specialized systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Ease of operation

If traditional mounting systems are used for cladding panels, then the installation is simple, but additional systems are needed for angled wall mounting

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation simplicityVSAvoidapplicability to angled walls

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP4491827A1Mounting system for exterior and interior cladding systems

Publication Date: 2025.01.15 MITSUBISHI POLYESTER FILM GMBH

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AI summary

The present invention relates to a mounting system for exterior and interior cladding systems, specifically for interior cladding systems, which allows for a reduced gap between the mounted panels, and a reduced wall-to-panel-distance, which mounting system can universally be used for the "start" panel, the "middle" panel(s) and the "end" panel, and preferably also angled mounting problems.