Wall Panel Frame with Common Profile and Light Block Rail
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional space-dividing wall panel systems face challenges in structural rigidity, ease of assembly, and integration of power and data communication hardware, with gaps between cover tiles and inadequate support for cabling and accessories.
Innovation Solution
A frame arrangement using common cross-sectional profile frame tubes with integral flanges for welding, incorporating a light block rail to cover gaps, and improved assembly for supporting hardware within the panel frame, including multi-way connections and adjustable leg supports.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional separate frame tubes are used for vertical and horizontal rails, then manufacturing flexibility is maintained, but structural rigidity and assembly complexity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines vertical and horizontal frame rails into a single integrated frame member with L-shaped cross-section. This merging eliminates the need for separate frame tubes and complex welding assemblies, while providing built-in structural rigidity through the integrated geometry. The single frame member serves both vertical and horizontal support functions simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated frame member performs multiple functions: it provides both vertical and horizontal structural support, serves as a mounting surface for cover tiles, and incorporates groove features for receiving light blocks. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components and simplifies the overall assembly.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional multi-way panel connections are used, then design flexibility is maintained, but manufacturing and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the wall system into standardized single-panel units with consistent frame geometry. Each panel is manufactured independently with the same integrated frame design, and field assembly achieves multi-way connections through simple mechanical joining of these standardized units. This segmentation maintains design flexibility while simplifying manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the connection parameter from complex multi-tube welding to simple mechanical assembly of standardized panels. The frame geometry parameters are optimized to allow easy field assembly while maintaining structural integrity, enabling both single and multi-way connections through the same standardized interface.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional frame structures are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but hardware integration and gap blocking capabilities deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the frame structure with integrated groove features that receive light blocks for gap blocking. The frame also incorporates mounting surfaces and attachment points for power and data communication hardware. This combining of structural and functional elements achieves hardware integration without proportionally increasing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces light blocks as intermediary elements that fit into grooves on the frame surface. These light blocks serve as mediators between the frame structure and the cover tiles, effectively blocking gaps while maintaining a clean appearance. The intermediary approach adds minimal complexity while achieving the gap blocking function.
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 provides a structurally rigid and easily assembled wall panel system that effectively integrates power and data communication hardware, blocks gaps between cover tiles, and supports cabling, enhancing overall construction efficiency and usability.
Implementation Method 1
These frame rails include integral flanges serving as both weld flanges and gussets and are connected together by welding to provide an improved structurally rigid frame construction.
Data Source
AI summary
A wall panel frame arrangement is provided having vertical and horizontal frame rails for having a common cross-sectional profile which facilitates joining thereof at the corners of the frame. Additionally, an improved light block arrangement is provided as a rail which extends horizontally across the frame, which rail is also adaptable for use with respect to a support assembly for supporting power and data communication circuit components thereon. The bottom of the frame further includes connector arrangements which facilitate mounting of either a base raceway cover or a vertically-enlarged cover tile at the same base location of the panel frame.