Wall Panel Interlocking Mechanism for Gap-Free Gluing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wall and ceiling panels with convex and concave end sides require pushing to connect, resulting in openings and preventing gluing to a substrate, due to their concave/convex design.
Innovation Solution
The panels feature first and second connecting means with projections and recesses that allow horizontal interlocking without visible openings, enabling connection without pushing and allowing gluing, with flexible parts that generate a strong interlocking force for a flat connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If panels with convex and concave end sides are connected by pushing, then horizontal interlocking is achieved, but visible openings are formed and gluing to substrate is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting means are segmented into multiple parts: a first part forming the convex/concave structure for horizontal interlocking, and a second part forming a projection that extends into the recess to close the gap. This segmentation allows different parts to serve different functions - structural interlocking and gap closure - simultaneously resolving both the need for horizontal stability and the need to eliminate visible openings.
Solution Approach 2:
The second part of the first connecting means is nested within the recess of the second connecting means. This nesting arrangement allows the projection to fit precisely into the recess, ensuring that the panels make contact at the end sides and close the gap completely, thereby eliminating visible openings while maintaining the horizontal interlocking provided by the first part.
2Reliability
If panels with convex and concave end sides are pushed to connect, then horizontal interlocking is achieved, but gluing to substrate becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting means incorporate flexible elements that allow dynamic adjustment during connection. The first part provides rigid horizontal interlocking, while the second part with the projection can flexibly engage with the recess to close gaps. This dynamic design enables the connection to adapt to different installation scenarios, including both pushed connections for horizontal interlocking and glued connections to substrates, without compromising either function.
3Strength
If the second part of the first connecting means is rigid, then structural strength is maintained, but the ability to engage smoothly with the recess is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The second part of the first connecting means is designed as a flexible projection rather than a rigid structure. This flexibility allows the projection to smoothly engage with and fit into the recess during connection, reducing installation difficulty. At the same time, the projection maintains sufficient structural strength to effectively close the gap and provide a secure connection when engaged.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The present invention relates to a wall or ceiling panel (1, 1') with an upper surface (6), wherein said panel (1, 1') comprises a first end side (2) provided with first connecting means (4) and a second end side (3) located opposite the first end side (2) provided with second connecting means (5), which connecting means (4, 5) are suitable for connecting the end sides of adjacent panels (1, 1') to each other by engagement of the first connecting means (4) with the second connecting means (5), wherein the first connecting means (4) are formed by a first projection (7) connected to the upper surface (6, 6') that comprises at least two parts (8, 9), a first downward- facing part (8) that is connected to the upper surface (6) and a second part (9) with a free end, wherein the second part (9) is connected to the first part (8) and faces upward.