Universal Structural Panels With Standardized Aperture Spacing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing universal panel structures face installation errors due to manufacturing discrepancies, such as misaligned bolt holes and poorly fitting components, which can compromise the structural integrity of shelters like storm shelters.
Innovation Solution
The development of universal panels with specific ratios for width and length, and aperture spacings on flanges, allowing panels to be arranged in various configurations without structural modification, ensuring correct alignment and secure joining, thereby reducing installation errors and enhancing structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If panels are manufactured with standard dimensions and aperture placements, then manufacturing is easier and less costly, but installation errors occur due to misaligned bolt holes and poorly fitting components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by establishing specific dimensional ratios: the width-to-length ratio is set to 1:5, and aperture spacing is set at specific intervals (e.g., 1 inch from edges, 9 inches between adjacent apertures). These standardized parameters ensure that panels from different manufacturers can be universally assembled without modification, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing precision and ease of manufacture.
2Reliability
If panels are designed with universal dimensions and aperture spacing, then installation accuracy improves and structural integrity is enhanced, but panel design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing panels with standardized dimensions (e.g., 80 inches length, 16 inches width) and consistent aperture patterns that can be used across multiple panel types and configurations. This universal design allows panels to be interchangeably assembled in various orientations and positions, enhancing reliability while actually simplifying the overall system design through standardization rather than increasing complexity.
3Ease of operation
If panels require structural modification during assembly, then fit precision can be adjusted, but installation time increases and installation errors may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring panels with precisely positioned apertures and standardized dimensions during manufacturing, before installation. The apertures are pre-spaced at specific intervals (e.g., 1 inch from panel edges, 9 inches between adjacent apertures) to ensure direct alignment during assembly. This eliminates the need for field modifications or adjustments, reducing installation time and preventing installation errors.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present technology provides universal panels and structures made from the same. The panels are formed using specific ratios for width and length of the panels, which are related to ratios of aperture spacings for the panels. These ratios are used to ensure that panels can be used in a universal manner to form walls, roofs, and doors. Additionally, the universality of the panels reduces the likelihood that installation errors will occur when building structures with these panels. Installation errors can deleteriously affect the structural integrity of the resulting structure.