Wall Panel Corner Connector for Simultaneous Frame Joining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wall panel connection devices are complex and time-consuming to operate, requiring individual connection to a wall frame and adjacent panels, which hinders efficient construction.
Innovation Solution
A connection device for wall panels featuring a housing profile with a movable connector element and an actuating mechanism, allowing simultaneous connection to a wall frame and adjacent panels through a single operation at each corner, facilitated by a rack and pinion gear or cam mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional connection devices are used to connect wall panel to wall frame, then the connection can be achieved, but the operation becomes time-consuming and complex requiring multiple individual connection operations
Solution Approach 1:
The connector element combines multiple connection functions into a single integrated component that can simultaneously connect the wall panel to both the wall frame and adjacent wall panels. This merging of connection functions allows one operation to achieve multiple connection tasks, directly resolving the contradiction between connection speed and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector element is designed with multi-functionality to perform various connection operations (connecting to wall frame, connecting to adjacent panels) through a single mechanism. This universal design enables the device to handle multiple connection requirements without increasing operational complexity, thereby improving productivity.
2Reliability
If multiple connection operations are performed individually, then each connection can be secured, but the construction time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The connector element is pre-configured with multiple connection arms and engagement features that are ready to perform multiple connection functions simultaneously. This preliminary preparation of the connection mechanism allows for parallel execution of connection operations, reducing construction time while maintaining connection reliability through the pre-designed multi-functional structure.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging multiple connection operations into a single simultaneous action through the integrated connector element, the invention achieves both reliability and time efficiency. The combined connection mechanism ensures that all connections are made in one operation, eliminating the time loss associated with sequential operations while maintaining the reliability of individual connections.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex connection devices are used, then connection functionality is achieved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector element provides universal connection functionality across different wall panel configurations and wall frame types through a single standardized mechanism. This multi-functionality is achieved without increasing operational complexity, as the same simple operation activates all connection functions, thereby maintaining ease of operation while enhancing adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector element is segmented into multiple independent connection arms and engagement features, each capable of performing a specific connection function. This segmentation allows the complex functionality to be distributed across simpler sub-components, making the overall device easier to operate while maintaining versatile connection capabilities.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention provides a connection device (100) for a wall panel (700) comprising a housing profile (200), connector element (300) and actuating mechanism (400). The housing profile (200) and connector element (300) each comprise a first and second arm (201, 202, 301, 302) extending along a first and second direction (R1, R2) and together forming a corner (203, 303). The housing profile (200) comprises a groove (210) in the first and second arm (201, 202) extending over the corner (203). The groove (210) has an exit opening (211) extending over outer corner sides (204) of the housing profile (200). The connector element (300) is arranged in the groove (210) of the housing profile (200) and moveable between a first position wherein the connector element (300) is completely positioned inside the groove (210) and second position wherein the connector element (300) protrudes at least partially outside of the groove (210) via the exit opening (211) at both the first and second arm (201, 202) of the housing profile (200). The actuating mechanism (400) is operable for moving the connector element (300) between the first and second position.