Wedge Connector for Wall Panel Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector systems for prefabricated wall panels are difficult to access, visually distracting, and inefficient in aligning and securing adjacent panels, especially in limited spaces like those with vertically enlarged glass panels, leading to complex installation procedures.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly featuring a main activator shaft with wedge nuts and wedgelike edge flanges that engage with guide grooves on the panel edges, allowing for easy alignment and securement by rotating the activator rod, with clamping portions that secure the connector in place, facilitating initial insertion and assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional connector structures are used to join adjacent wall panels, then the panels can be connected, but the connectors are difficult to access and require complex installation procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is pre-assembled with the wedge members positioned on the activator rod before installation. The guide grooves are pre-formed on the edge rails to receive the wedge members. This preliminary preparation allows for simplified on-site installation where the connector is simply inserted and activated by rotating the activator rod, eliminating complex assembly procedures during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge members act as intermediaries between the activator rod and the edge rails. When the activator rod is rotated, the wedge members translate this rotational motion into linear movement that draws the edge rails together. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the connection process by converting a simple rotational action into the complex task of aligning and securing two panels.
2Adaptability or versatility
If connectors are placed between opposed edge rails of adjacent panels, then the panels can be connected, but the available space is limited making connector insertion difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge members are nested on the activator rod, allowing them to be compactly stored during insertion and then deployed when needed. The connector assembly is designed to fit within the limited space between edge rails, with components nested together to minimize insertion depth requirements while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector utilizes the vertical dimension by having the activator rod extend vertically between the edge rails. The wedge members move vertically along the rod when activated, converting rotational motion into vertical linear motion. This dimensional approach allows the connector to function effectively within the constrained horizontal space between panels.
3Reliability
If vertically elongate splines or threaded fasteners are used to join panel frames, then the panels can be connected, but they are troublesome in effecting proper drawing together and maintaining aligned relationship
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge members are designed to be dynamic rather than static, moving along the activator rod as it rotates. This dynamic mechanism automatically maintains the aligned relationship between panels during the connection process, as the wedges continuously adjust their position to draw the edge rails together while preserving alignment, eliminating the troubles of static spline or fastener systems.
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 connector assembly simplifies the installation process by allowing easy engagement and alignment of panel edges, providing a secure and aesthetically concealed connection while being compact enough for use in tight spaces, thus enhancing the efficiency and appearance of wall panel assemblies.
Implementation Method 1
the connector employs a pair of wedge members which are engaged on an activating rod through threaded connections of opposite hand so that rotation of the activating rod causes the wedge members to move axially of the activating rod in opposite directions
Implementation Method 2
wedge members which are engaged on an activating rod through threaded connections of opposite hand
Data Source
AI summary
A pair of upright wall panels are each provided with a sidewardly spaced pair of generally parallel but inclined guide grooves extending vertically along the outer face of the upright frame edge rails. A connector assembly including a main activator rod having a pair of wedge members threaded thereon in spaced relationship therealong is positioned between the opposed upright edge rails. The wedge members have wedgelike edge flanges which protrude into the grooves of the opposed upright edge rails. Rotation of the activating rod causes the wedge members to simultaneously move relative to the rod in opposite directions between a first end position wherein the wedge members effect gripping engagement with the groove walls to simultaneously effect a drawing together of the edge rails and alignment thereof, and a second end position wherein the wedge members clampingly engage only a single edge rail to facilitate initial mounting of the connector assembly.