Wood Panel Connecting Element for Precise Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for adjusting and fixing wooden panels or beams are time-consuming and prone to damage during transport and assembly, lacking efficient systems for precise positioning and secure attachment, especially for complex structures.

Innovation Solution

A method involving the preparation of wooden panels by removing material to attach connecting elements with anchoring means, allowing for secure fastening and transportation using bores for adjustment, and utilizing connecting plates for precise positioning and attachment at the construction site.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional fastening methods (metal brackets, nails, bolts, screws) are used to attach wooden panels, then the panels can be securely fixed, but the attachment process requires long times since each individual panel has to be positioned manually

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure attachmentVSAvoidattachment speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The connecting element is pre-assembled with anchoring means and positioning features at the factory before transport. The wooden panel is pre-machined with recesses and chamfered corners to receive the connecting element. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for time-consuming on-site positioning and fastening operations, while ensuring secure attachment through pre-configured anchoring mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

A separate connecting element acts as an intermediary component between wooden panels. This connecting element includes anchoring means for secure attachment and positioning features for precise alignment. The intermediary component simplifies the attachment process by providing a standardized interface that guides panels into correct positions without requiring manual positioning of each panel.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If temporary elements are used to allow component attachment during transport, then the components can be moved and assembled, but the temporary element must be dismantled at the construction site adding extra steps

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransport and assemblyVSAvoiddismantling time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The connecting element serves multiple functions: it acts as a permanent attachment mechanism for securing panels, provides positioning features for guiding panels during assembly, and includes integrated anchoring means for secure fastening. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate temporary elements that would require dismantling, as the connecting element remains in place as part of the final structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Device complexity

If no guiding system is provided for panels, then the panels can be attached using simple fastening methods, but the operator must position each panel manually which requires long times

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefastening systemVSAvoidpanel positioning speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The connecting element serves as a guiding intermediary that includes positioning features such as recesses, chamfered corners, and alignment elements. These features physically guide the wooden panel into the correct position during assembly, eliminating the need for manual positioning by the operator. The guiding system is integrated into the connecting element itself, providing alignment assistance without requiring complex external guiding equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP2687651B1Method for the adjustment and/or attachment of wood panels or beams and a structure constructed using this method
Publication Date: 2017.08.30 ROTHO BLAAS
  • EP2687651B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2687651B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP2687651B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

A method for adjusting and/or fastening components (1, 1a, 1b) is described. According to the invention, the method comprises the following steps: a) preparing the component (1, 1a, 1b) made of wood; b) fastening at least one connecting element (2), comprising engagement means, against the surface of the component via anchoring means (3), wherein it is arranged opposite the surface of the component (1, 1a, 1b), the connecting means (3) being anchored within the component; c) moving the component by hooking it onto at least one connecting element (2); d) fastening the component (1, 1a, 1b) to other such elements or other structures by means of the connecting element (2).