Wall Panel Mount Frame Angled Channels Drain Fluid
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wall panel mount systems face challenges in preventing fluid pooling on the inner sides of the frames, which can lead to issues with water accumulation and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
The proposed wall panel mount system incorporates frames with specifically shaped inner sides to inhibit fluid pooling. These frames feature longitudinally-extending channels with outer surfaces angled to divert fluid away, and surfaces along the inner side that promote fluid movement towards the ends of the frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the frame has a flat inner side surface, then the manufacturing is simple, but fluid pools on the inner side leading to water accumulation and potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The frame incorporates localized geometric features (angled surfaces and longitudinally-extending channels) specifically on the inner side surfaces that contact fluid, while maintaining simplicity elsewhere. The angled surfaces are positioned at specific locations to divert fluid toward drainage points, creating local functional zones that prevent pooling without requiring complete redesign of the entire frame structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame employs curved or angled surface geometries instead of flat surfaces. The inner side surfaces include angled surfaces that slope downward toward the ends of the frame, and longitudinally-extending channels that follow curved paths along the frame members. These non-flat geometries facilitate fluid flow and prevent accumulation while maintaining structural integrity.
2Reliability
If the frame is designed with channels and angled surfaces to divert fluid, then fluid pooling is prevented, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into distinct functional segments: angled surfaces for fluid diversion, longitudinally-extending channels for fluid transport, and drainage points for fluid discharge. Each segment performs a specific function in the fluid management sequence, allowing for modular design and simplified manufacturing of individual components that are then assembled into the complete frame structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame members serve multiple functions: they provide structural support for the wall panel assembly, act as fluid diversion surfaces through their angled geometry, function as fluid transport channels through their longitudinal channels, and serve as mounting structures for fasteners. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall manufacturing process.
3Reliability
If the inner side surfaces are shaped to promote fluid movement, then water accumulation is prevented, but the surface area for fluid contact increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame exhibits asymmetric geometry where the inner side surfaces have different orientations and features compared to outer surfaces. The angled surfaces slope in specific directions toward drainage points, and the longitudinally-extending channels are positioned asymmetrically along the frame members. This asymmetric design optimizes fluid flow paths while minimizing unnecessary surface area.
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
The solution effectively prevents fluid pooling on the inner sides of the frames, ensuring that water is diverted and drained properly, thus protecting the system from damage and maintaining its integrity.
Implementation Method 1
Outer surfaces of the channels of the frame are shaped to angle fluid away therefrom and/or outwards from the frame
Implementation Method 2
Surfaces of the frame along an inner side of the frame between an inner end and a central portion of the frame are shaped to promote movement of fluid towards the inner end of the frame. Surfaces of the frame along the inner side of the frame between an outer end of the frame and the central portion of the frame are shaped to promote movement of fluid towards the outer end thereof.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a frame for coupling a wall panel to a wall or wall substrate. The frame has inner and outer sides, with the inner side of the frame being shaped to inhibit pooling of fluid thereon according to one aspect. The frame includes a series of longitudinally-extending channels with outer surfaces thereof shaped to angle fluid away and/or outwards therefrom according to another aspect. According to an additional aspect: surfaces of the frame along an inner side of the frame between an inner end and a central portion of the frame are shaped to promote movement of fluid towards the inner end of the frame; and surfaces of the frame along the inner side of the frame between an outer end of the frame and the central portion of the frame are shaped to promote movement of fluid towards the outer end thereof.