Patent Application
20220000259
The subject matter described herein generally relates to building devices and, more particularly, modular construction devices.
Housing implements, such as tables, chairs, subdividing walls, and others, are used in numerous homes and offices across the country. These devices are constructed in a variety of ways and from numerous materials. Further, these devices generally include significant construction costs. As well, these devices can require significant transportation costs to move from the site of manufacture to the home or the office. More recently, pre-manufactured versions of these devices are shipped to the home or office to be built or installed by the owner or user. Shipments of pre-manufactured versions can help reduce the cost of transit. However, pre-manufactured versions of these devices generally weigh the same are made from the same materials and requires similar construction costs.
Interlocking modular building devices, as well as related systems and methods for the same, are disclosed herein. In one implementation, an interlocking panel for use in building a panel frame structure is disclosed. The interlocking panel can include a panel body to form a portion of a panel frame structure and comprising a rigid material. The panel body can include a first supporting surface, a second supporting surface positioned opposite the first supporting surface, and a panel edge bounding the first supporting surface and the second supporting surface of the panel body. The panel edge can have a plurality of central side walls. The interlocking panel can further include one or more protrusions extending from at least one of the plurality of central side walls. The protrusions can include a first protrusion surface, a second protrusion surface opposite the first protrusion surface, a protrusion edge having at least a first protrusion side wall and a second protrusion side wall, and a plurality of interlocking teeth extending from the protrusion edge. The plurality of interlocking teeth can each include a first connection surface and a second connection surface opposite the first connection surface. The interlocking panel can further include one or more fastener ports to receive a fastener, wherein each fastener port is formed through at least one of the protrusion and the central region.
In further implementations, an interlocking modular subunit for use in building a panel frame structure is disclosed. The interlocking modular subunit can include a plurality of interlocking panels. The interlocking panels can each include a panel body to form a portion of a panel frame structure and comprising a rigid material. The panel body can include a first supporting surface, a second supporting surface positioned opposite the first supporting surface, and a panel edge bounding the first supporting surface and the second supporting surface of the panel body. The panel edge can have a plurality of central side walls. The interlocking panels can further include one or more protrusions extending from at least one of the plurality of central side walls. The protrusions can include a first protrusion surface, a second protrusion surface opposite the first protrusion surface, a protrusion edge having at least a first protrusion side wall and a second protrusion side wall, and a plurality of interlocking teeth extending from the protrusion edge. The plurality of interlocking teeth can each include a first connection surface and a second connection surface opposite the first connection surface. The interlocking panels can further include one or more fastener ports to receive a fastener, wherein each fastener port is formed through at least one of the protrusion and the central region. The interlocking modular subunit can include two (2) selected interlocking panels of the plurality of interlocking panels being positioned substantially perpendicular to one another, the protrusions of the selected interlocking panels being interconnected with an opposing interlocking panel of the plurality of interlocking panels. Further, the interlocking modular subunit can include at least one of the interlocking teeth of the protrusion of each of the selected interlocking panels connecting to and overlapping with at least one of the interlocking teeth of the protrusion of the opposing interlocking panel. The interlocking modular subunit can further include a fastener to connect two (2) of the plurality of interlocking panels, wherein the fastener passes through the fastener port of each of the two (2) interlocking panels in a substantially perpendicular fashion.
In yet further implementations, a panel frame structure is disclosed. The panel frame structure can include a plurality of interlocking panels, each interlocking panel comprising a panel body having one or more protrusions extending therefrom, the interlocking panels being connected with one another at the one or more protrusions, at least one of the plurality of support panels having one or more fastener ports, wherein the plurality of interlocking panels includes one or more pairs of interlocking panels being connected with a fastener through the fastener ports.
So that the manner in which the above-recited features of the present disclosure can be understood in detail, a more particular description of the disclosure, briefly summarized above, may be had by reference to the implementations, some of which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only some implementations of this disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The disclosure may admit to other equally effective implementations.
To facilitate understanding, identical reference numerals have been used, wherever possible, to designate identical elements that are common to the figures. Additionally, elements of one implementation may be advantageously adapted for utilization in other implementations described herein.
The implementations disclosed herein generally relate to interlocking panels for building a variety of panel frame structures and methods of making and using the same. The interlocking panels can include a panel body having one or more protrusions extending therefrom. Each protrusion can include a plurality of interlocking teeth. In some implementations, the interlocking panels can be interconnected at the interlocking teeth to form an interlocking modular subunit. The interlocking modular subunit is a group of three or more interlocking panels which can be interconnected through interaction of the interlocking teeth, such that the interlocking teeth between the interlocking panels are overlapping. The interlock between the interlocking teeth can cause the orientation of the interlocking panels to alternate. This alternation of interlocking panels can allow for the formation of three-dimensional structures based on the position and orientation of each interlocking panel, as well as the directionality of the protrusions from said interlocking panel. Through this interconnection and alternation, multiple interlocking modular subunits, and, thus, multiple interlocking panels, can be combined to create the panel frame structures described herein. As explained throughout, the interlocking panels can be interconnected to create the framework of a variety of internal or external structures, such as found throughout a home, office, or other facility.
In further implementations, the interlocking teeth can connect to another interlocking panel through one or more receiving ports formed in said panel. The receiving ports can include any ports formed in or through the interlocking panel which are capable of or configured to receive one or more of the interlocking teeth from a respective interlocking panel. In one or more implementations, the receiving ports can be configured to receive the one or more connecting members at a specific angle or direction, such that the one or more interlocking panels maintain a specific alignment with respect to the other connected interlocking panels.
In some implementations, the interlocking panels can further include a support surface, such as through the inclusion of one or more interlocking surface panels. Interlocking surface panels, according to one or more implementations herein, can be a type of plate-like framework or support that is configured to create a substantially flat surface through interaction as part of a panel frame structure. As used herein, the term “substantially” includes exactly the term it modifies and slight variations therefrom. Thus, the term “substantially similar” means exactly the same and slight variations therefrom. In this particular example, slight variations therefrom can include within normal manufacturing tolerances, within about 10 degrees/percent or less, within about 5 degrees/percent or less, within about 4 degrees/percent or less, within about 3 degrees/percent or less, within about 2 degrees/percent or less, or within about 1 degrees/percent or less.
According to one or more implementations, the interlocking surface panels can include one or more features which are substantially similar to the interlocking panels, including having one or more fastener openings and/or one or more receiving ports. As such, the one or more interlocking surface panels can receive and support one or more interlocking panels and/or one or more fasteners. In one or more implementations, one or more interlocking surface panels are connected continuously using one or more interlocking panels to present a flat surface. Further, it is understood that interlocking surface panels are a type of interlocking panel and incorporate the functionality of said interlocking panels. As such, interlocking surface panels and support panels can be used in place of or in conjunction with one another, in one or more of the implementations described or taught throughout the specification.
Interlocking panels can laterally connect to one another using the one or more protrusions. Once connected, interlocking panels with a second protrusion can allow for connection and angles between respective interlocking panels. In further implementations, interlocking panels may include shapes which allow for relative mobility between connected interlocking panels. In one example, the panel body of the interlocking panel can include a rounded or circular shape and a central opening. In this configuration, the interlocking panel can rotate with respect to other interlocking panels around or near the circular shaped portion of the panel body.
The interlocking panels can begin with at least two (2) of the one or more interlocking panels connected on opposing sides of a protrusion from a third interlocking panel, wherein the two interlocking panels can be connected with a fastener. In some implementations, the third interlocking panel is “sandwiched” between two interlocking panels, two interlocking surface panels, or combinations thereof. The interlocking teeth can be positioned or formed in pairs, such that each of the two interlocking panels receive a corresponding interlocking tooth from the protrusion when the third interlocking panel is compressed or “sandwiched” between the two interlocking panels. The implementations disclosed herein are more clearly described with reference to the figures below.
In many implementations throughout the specification, the panel frame structure can be described in light of standard household or office furnishings. However, the panel frame structure 100 is not limited to specific types of structures, specific types of furnishings, or specific environments. In some implementations, the panel frame structure 100 can be applied to create or subdivide rooms or even buildings. The panel frame structure 100 can include internal or external structures. Some examples of the panel frame structure 100 in the form of external structures can include pergolas, awnings, storage racks, and sheds.
The plurality of interlocking panels 102 can include panels of a variety of types, wherein the types of panels used in the orientation with respect one another can be used to determine the overall shape of the panel frame structure 100. In some implementations, the plurality of interlocking panels 102 can include one or more corner panels, an example of which being depicted here as a first interlocking panel 102a and fourth interlocking panel. In further implementations, the plurality of interlocking panels 102 can include one or more lateral panels, an example of which depicted here as a second interlocking panel 102b. In further implementations, the plurality of interlocking panels 102 can include one or more three-way panels, an example of which being depicted here as a third interlocking panel 102c.
The panel frame structure 100 can include the plurality of interlocking panels 102 in any order or formation, such that the panel frame structure 100 performs the functions desired by the user. In some implementations, each of the plurality of interlocking panels 102 are positioned in parallel with a respective one of the plurality of interlocking panels 102. In this orientation, the groups of two (2) selected interlocking panels 102, which are positioned in parallel and connected to one another, form the sets of interlocking panels 104. Examples of the sets of interlocking panels 104 are depicted in
The plurality of fasteners 106 are depicted here as bolts. However, the plurality of fasteners 106 can include any type of fastener capable of affixing two (2) interlocking panels of the plurality of interlocking panel 102 to one another. In some implementations, the plurality of fasteners 106 can include nails, screws, latches, clamps, adhesives, or other types of connections which can be added or created to hold two (2) substantially flat surfaces together. In further implementations, one or more of the plurality of fasteners 106 can be used to fasten together each set of interlocking panels 104. In one example, a fifth fastener 106e and a sixth fastener 106f are used to affix the set of interlocking panels including interlocking panels 102e and 102f.
The panel frame structure 100 is shown here in forming a table. However, it is understood that the panel frame structure 100 can take any formation or orientation as desired by the user. The panel frame structure 100 is depicted here with interlocking panels 102a, 102c, 102g, and 102h forming the flat surface of the upper portion of the panel frame structure 100. As such, there are a variety of positions and orientations that the plurality of interlocking panels 102 can take with respect to one another, as guided by the positions and angles of the interlocking panels 102 which precede and accompany them. As the panels of the plurality of interlocking panels 102 connect sequentially by the overlapping and intermingling of the plurality of interlocking teeth 108, each sequential interlocking panel rotates 90° with respect to the previous interlocking panel 102 to make the next connection.
As shown in light of the difference in position of the interlocking panel 102a and the interlocking panel 102d, the 90° rotation changes the orientation of the interlocking panel 102d. In this case, the interlocking panel 102d interacts with the interlocking panels 102e and 102f at an angle with respect to the direction of the interaction between the interlocking panels 102a, 102b, and 102c. In some implementations, the rotation of the interlocking panel 102d and subsequent interactions can be described as creating a second imaginary plane which is rotated 90° with respect to a first imaginary plane created by the interlocking panels 102a, 102b, and 102c.
The interlocking panels 102 can further include one or more receiving ports 110. The one or more receiving ports can be configured to receive one or more interlocking teeth 108. In some examples, the one or more receiving ports 110 can be formed partially or completely through the interlocking panel 102. As shown here, the one or more receiving ports 110 form a complete passage through the interlocking panel 102d. The one or more receiving ports 110 can be configured to receive one or more of the plurality of interlocking teeth 108. In one or more implementations, the one or more receiving ports 110 can be configured to create a flat surface in connection with one or more of the plurality of interlocking teeth 108. The one or more receiving ports 110 can be formed in a variety of shapes, including all primary shapes and/or combinations thereof. Further, the one or more receiving ports 110 can have different shapes as compared to one another, including the formation of pairs or other groupings within the one or more receiving ports 110. The pairs or other groupings of the one or more receiving ports 110 can be based on positioning, orientation, general shape and/or combinations of shape, variations in width/height/depth, angle of penetration, or other facets which can be used to establish a general groupings of any number of the one or more receiving ports 110.
In operation, the panel frame structure 100 can be formed by sequentially connecting the interlocking panels 102. As depicted in the top corner portion 150, the interlocking panels 102a and 102i can be two corner pieces positioned in parallel from one another. The interlocking panels 102b and 102j can be connected to the interlocking panels 102a and 102i by sliding the interlocking teeth 108 of a first protrusion 107 from each of the interlocking panels 102b and 102j into the respective spaces between the interlocking teeth 108 on a first protrusion 107 of the interlocking panels 102a and 102i. Once the interlocking teeth 108 are interconnected, the interlocking panels 102a and 102i can be joined using a fastener 106. A second fastener 106 can be used to join the interlocking panels 102b and 102j, as shown here. Interlocking panels 102k and 102l can be sequentially added in that same manner, connecting the interlocking teeth 108 of the first protrusion 107 to the second protrusion 107 of the interlocking panels 102a and 102i. One skilled in the art will understand the wide variety of possible combinations for the interlocking panels 102 in light of the present disclosure, without further recitation herein.
As shown here, the choice and positioning of interlocking panel type can be used to dictate the overall structure of the panel frame structure 100. The interlocking panels 102a, 102i, 102g, and 102n form the corners of the upper surface. The interlocking panels 102a, 102i, 102g, and 102n are connected to one another by connection with the interlocking panels 102k and 102l. The interlocking panels 102 are positioned as sets of two (2), with each set of interlocking panels being positioned in parallel and connected using at least one of the plurality of fasteners 106. In the present example, the interlocking panels 102b and 102j are positioned at a 90° angle from the interlocking panels 102k and 102l. The interlocking panels 102b and 102j can connect with the other side of the interlocking panels 102a and 102i. The shape and position of the interlocking panels 102a and 102i can control the position of the interlocking panels 102b and 102j as part of the overall shape of the panel frame structure 100.
In further implementations, the panel frame structure 100 can include the plurality of interlocking panels 102 connected with six (6) degrees of freedom with respect to one another. The six degrees of freedom, as used here, are defined as movement and rotation in relation to a three-dimensional plane. Described with reference to a single object having a known starting position and direction, movement backwards and forwards (referred to as “surge”), left or right (referred to as “sway”), and up or down (referred to as “heave”), corresponds to movement on Z, X, and Y planes respectively. Yaw is rotation about the Y plane. Pitch is rotation about the X plane. Roll is rotation about the Z plane. As such, the variance factor can be calculated alongside the relative surge, sway, heave, yaw, pitch, and roll, of the vehicle, as appropriate.
In some implementations, the angle and position of the plane created by the interconnection of a selected interlocking panel of the plurality of interlocking panels 102 can be shifted to a higher or lower position while maintaining the same orientation (e.g., the surge, sway, or heave of the selected interlocking panel without changing the yaw, pitch, or roll of the the selected interlocking panel). In further implementations, the selected interlocking panel of the plurality of interlocking panels 102 can change orientation with respect to a central axis while maintaining the same position with respect to previously connected interlocking panels (e.g., a change in the yaw, pitch, and/or roll of the selected interlocking panel while the central axis maintains the same position on the X, Y, and Z coordinate planes). In yet further implementations, the selected interlocking panel of the plurality of interlocking panels 102 can change any combination of the elements of the position and the orientation with respect to a previously connected interlocking panel of the plurality of interlocking panels 102.
As disclosed herein, the interlocking panels can be connected in a variety of ways to create a limitless number of structures. The shape and design of the interlocking panels allows the panels to be connected interchangeably, including a variety of angles and positions. Thus, the interlocking panels can be connected such that the resulting panel frame structures can serve a variety of roles and as a variety of structural elements in any conceivable location.
The interlocking panel 200 can be configured with a number of material characteristics, such as in relation to user choice or environment. In one or more implementations, the material characteristics of the interlocking panel 200 generally and/or individual elements thereof can include resistance to abrasion, resistance to specific chemicals/chemistries, specific friction levels, electrical and/or magnetic conductivity, or others as desired. In one or more implementations, the interlocking panel 200 can generally be composed of and/or include any combination of one or more materials.
In one or more implementations, the interlocking panel 200 can include any material capable of providing some level of rigidity and capable of functioning as a component of one or more of the implementations of the panel frame structure 100, as described herein. The materials can include metals, polymers, ceramics, natural materials (e.g., wood, stone, etc.), composites, and/or others. The materials can further include combinations of the above materials. The combinations of the above materials can be configured to achieve a specific set of purposes (e.g., ferromagnetism and a rubberized/high friction surface). The combinations of the above materials can include layered combinations, such as vertically layered combinations, horizontally layer combinations, layered combinations with varying angles of the layers, and/or combinations thereof. The combinations can further include interspersed combinations, such as fibers of a first material interspersed through second material (e.g., fiberglass), doped materials, alloys, or others.
The panel body 210 forms the central structure of the interlocking panel 200. The panel body 210 can be configured to provide a substantially stationary connection to one or more elements of a panel frame structure, as described herein. In some implementations, the panel body 210 can have a generally square shape, however that is not intended to be limiting. In further implementations, the panel body 210 can be of a variety of shapes including all primary shapes and/or combinations thereof. The panel body 210 can include a variety of diameters, width, lengths, and heights such that the interlocking panel 200 can perform one or more structural functions as part of the panel frame structure 100. Structural functions, as used herein, generally refer to controlling the stability, relative position/orientation, or other functions with relation to the physical integrity of both the individual element, as well as the overall physical integrity of the panel frame structure 100.
The panel body 210 can further include a first supporting surface 212. The first supporting surface 212 can be an exposed surface of the interlocking panel 200. In some implementations, the first supporting surface 212 can be a substantially flat surface. In further implementations, the first supporting surface 212 can be configured to control one or more physical aspects of the surface, such as rigidity, friction, adhesion, hydrophobicity, oleophobicity, surface roughness, chemical resistance, or others. In some implementations, the controlling of the physical aspects of the surface can be achieved through physical changes to the first supporting surface 212, such as by physically acting upon the first supporting surface 212 (e.g., without changing the composition of the surface). In yet further implementations, the first supporting surface 212 can include one or more materials which differ in composition from that of the remaining portions of the panel body 210. In some examples, the one or more materials used or integrated in the first supporting surface 212 can affect one or more of the physical aspects of the first supporting surface 212, as described above.
In some implementations, the first supporting surface 212 can refer to a plurality of subsurfaces, wherein each subsurface can encompass one or more of the possible implementations described with reference to the first supporting surface 212. The plurality of subsurfaces can encompass any amount or proportion of the first supporting surface 212. Further, the plurality of subsurfaces can take any general shape or combination of shapes. In one example, the first supporting surface 212 can include three (3) subsurfaces 218a, 218b, and 218c. The subsurfaces 218a, 218b, and 218c can each comprise a different material to achieve the different effective result. In one example, the subsurfaces 218a and 218b comprise an elastomeric material, such as rubber, and subsurface 218c is a substantially flat surface comprising the same material as the remaining portions of the panel body 210.
The panel body 210 can further include a second supporting surface 214. The second supporting surface 214 can be a surface opposite the first supporting surface 212 on the interlocking panel 200. In one or more implementations, the second supporting surface 214 can be substantially similar to the first supporting surface 212. In some implementations, the second supporting surface 214 can include materials, compositions, configurations, or others, as described with reference to the first supporting surface 212.
The panel body 210 can further include a panel edge 220. The panel edge 220 can have a plurality of central sidewalls 222, depicted here as four (4) central sidewalls 222a, 222b, 222c, and 222d. The number, shape, and type of central sidewalls 222 can reflect the one or more shapes which compose the panel body 210. In one example, the panel body 210 is a generally hexagonal shape in can include five (5) central sidewalls 222. The four (4) central sidewalls 222a, 222b, 222c, and 222d are depicted here as forming an substantially 900 angle, as measured from the first supporting surface 212 and/or the second supporting surface 214. However, the comparative angle of the surface may be greater or less than 90°. In some implementations, four (4) central sidewalls 222a, 222b, 222c, and 222d can form an angle of from about 10° to about 800 as measured from either the first supporting surface 212 or the second supporting surface 214. Here, the angle of the central sidewalls 222 can be configured such that the central sidewall of a respective interlocking panel can form a substantially flush interface with the interlocking panel 200.
The interlocking panel 200 can further include a protrusion 230. Though depicted in this example as a single protrusion (e.g., the protrusion 230), one or more protrusions may be present on the interlocking panel 200. The protrusion 230 can be an extension from one or more of the central sidewalls 222 of the panel body 210. In one example, the protrusion 230 extends from the central sidewall 222a. In some implementations, the panel body 210 and the protrusion 230 can be composed of a single material, such as wood or plastic. In further implementations, the panel body 210 and the protrusion 230 may be produced or molded as a single piece, such as carving the panel body 210 and the protrusion 230 from a single piece of wood or metal. In this implementation, the panel body 210 and the protrusion 230 are produced from the same material extending continuously between the two elements. The protrusion 230 can be of a variety of shapes including all primary shapes and/or combinations thereof. The protrusion 230 can include a variety of diameters, width, lengths, and heights such that the interlocking panel 200 can perform one or more structural functions as part of the panel frame structure 100.
The protrusion 230 can further include a first protrusion surface 232 and a second protrusion surface 234. The first protrusion surface 232 and the second protrusion surface 234 can be substantially similar to the first supporting surface 212 and the second supporting surface 214, as described with reference to the panel body 210. The protrusion 230 can further include a protrusion edge 240. The protrusion edge 240 can form the boundary around the protrusion 230. The protrusion edge 240 can include a plurality of protrusion sidewalls 242, depicted here as a first protrusion sidewall 242a, a second protrusion sidewall 242b, and a third protrusion sidewall 242c. The protrusion sidewalls 242 can be substantially similar to the central sidewalls 222.
The protrusion 230 can further include a plurality of interlocking teeth 244. The plurality of interlocking teeth 244 consist of extensions and indentations along the protrusion edge 240. The plurality of interlocking teeth 244 of the interlocking panel 200 can be configured to interconnect with a plurality of interlocking teeth from an adjoining interlocking panel. The plurality of interlocking teeth 244 can comprise a variety of shapes and sizes which complement or otherwise interact with the plurality of interlocking teeth of an adjoining interlocking panel. The plurality of interlocking teeth 244, though presented as being in approximately equal square shape may vary in shape or size between each of the plurality of interlocking teeth 244.
The plurality of interlocking teeth 244 can extend from one or more of the protrusion sidewalls 242. In this implementation, the plurality of interlocking teeth 244 includes three (3) interlocking teeth 244a, 244b, and 244c extending from the first protrusion sidewall 242a and three (3) interlocking teeth 244d, 244e, and 244f extending from the second protrusion sidewall 242b. The plurality of interlocking teeth 244 can extend at any angle from the protrusion sidewall 242. In one example, the plurality of interlocking teeth 244 extend at a 90° angle from the protrusion sidewall 242. The plurality of interlocking teeth 244 can be positioned at any point along the protrusion sidewall 242, such that interaction between the plurality of interlocking teeth 244. In one or more implementations, the plurality of interlocking teeth 244 may be positioned as sets, such as shown here with interlocking teeth 244c and 244d, interlocking teeth 244b and 244e, and interlocking teeth 244a and 244f, respectively, as part of three (3) sets of interlocking teeth extending opposite one another.
The plurality of interlocking teeth 244 can each include a plurality of connection surfaces 246, such as a first connection surface 246a and a second connection surface 246b. In operation, the plurality of interlocking teeth from a first interlocking panel can slide into a groove formed by the plurality of interlocking teeth from a second interlocking panel. Thus the plurality of connection surfaces for each of these pluralities of interlocking teeth on the respective interlocking panels interact with one another and form an interface. The plurality of connection surfaces 246 can be configured to interact with other connection surfaces to control the interaction at the interface between the connection surfaces. The physical attributes of the plurality of connection surfaces 246 can be controlled in the same manner as that which is described above with reference to the first supporting surface 212 of the panel body 210. In one example, the plurality of connection surfaces 246 can include a rubberized surface to reduce the likelihood of separation between the interacting connection surfaces.
The panel body 210 can further include one or more fastener ports 216 formed therein. The fastener ports 216 can be formed through the first supporting surface 212, the second supporting surface 214, or both. The one or more fastener ports 216 can include holes, pores, connections, latches, or other elements capable of being used in conjunction with the fastener 250 to connect the interlocking panel 200 to a second interlocking panel, such as depicted with relation to the interlocking panels 102 in
The one or more fastener ports 216 can be one or more receiving elements capable of interacting with the fastener 250 to fix or join one or more components of the panel frame structure 100. Examples of the one or more fastener ports 216 can include inlets, openings, attachment elements, devices, or components. The one or more fastener ports 216 can further include engaging elements for engaging the fastener 250. The fastener 250 is depicted here as a bolt having a head 252 and a shaft 254. Using the fastener 250 as an example, some examples of engaging elements can include threads for receiving a bolt or screw (e.g., a threaded inner wall for receiving the shaft 254 of the fastener 250), an indentation for receiving and holding the fastener 250 in place (e.g., a receiving indentation for the head 252 of the fastener 250), or others which serve to improve the connection between the fastener 250 and the interlocking panel 200. Further, groups of the one or more fastener ports 216 can work in conjunction for engaging or otherwise interacting with the fastener 250.
The hinge-type interlocking panel 300, including elements of the panel body 310 and the protrusion 330, can be substantially similar to the interlocking panel 200 and respective components therein. The panel body 310 includes a first supporting surface 312, a second supporting surface 314, and a panel edge 320. The first supporting surface 312 and the second supporting surface 314 include a semicircular portion which is bounded by the panel edge 320. The panel edge 320 comprises a first flat central sidewall 322a, from which the protrusion 330 extends, and a second circular central sidewall 322b. The curvature of the second circular central wall 322b allows for freedom of movement between the hinge-type interlocking panel 300 and other interlocking panels which form the panel frame structure. Further, the curvature of panel body 310 allows the hinge-type interlocking panel 300 to rotate about an axis, such as the axis created by a fastener positioned in the fastener port 316.
In operation, two (2) interlocking panels, each of which being substantially similar to the hinge-type interlocking panel 300, can be brought together through the use of a fastener, such as a screw or an interlocking element within the fastener port 316a. The two (2) interlocking panels can be spaced apart from one another by at least one additional interlocking panel which is connected at the protrusion 330 and affixed by pressure from a second fastener through the fastener port 316b. The two (2) interlocking panels can then rotate on the axis created by the fastener through fastener port 316a.
The first supporting surface 312 and the second supporting surface 314 of the hinge-type interlocking panel 300 can be a surface structure and/or a surface material designed to reduce friction and wear on the first supporting surface 312 and the second supporting surface 314 during rotation. In some implementations, the first supporting surface 312 and/or the second supporting surface 314 are a decreased surface roughness, such as a surface roughness of less than 50% the average roughness of other surfaces on the hinge-type interlocking panels 300. In further implementations, the first supporting surface 312 and/or the second supporting surface 314 include a coating designed to decrease adhesion or friction between two surfaces, such as a polytetrafluoroethylene coating or other material.
As such, the hinge-type interlocking panel 300 can provide the additional benefit of movement between two or more interlocking panels within a panel frame structure. The hinge-type interlocking panel 300 further allows for the creation of joints and hinges in panel frame structures such that larger devices or objects can be made, or devices which include a level of mobility. The hinge-type interlocking panel 300 can be used to create various mobile elements within the structure, doors, hinged tabletops, boxes, or other elements which may benefit from the mobility imparted by the hinge-type interlocking panel 300. Thus, the hinge-type interlocking panel 300 complements the stationary interlocking panels, such as the interlocking panel 200, by allowing mobility for portions or elements created as part of the panel frame structure.
The panel body 410 can include a first supporting surface 412, a second supporting surface 414, and a panel edge 420. The panel edge 420 can include a plurality of central sidewalls, such as central sidewalls 422a, 422b, 422c, and 422d. The panel body 410, including individual elements, can be substantially similar to the panel body 210 and equivalent elements, described with reference to
The first protrusion 430, the second protrusion 440, and the third protrusion 450 forms an angle based on the direction of extension from the respective central sidewall 422. In one example, the first protrusion 430 extends at an approximately 90° angle from the direction of extension of the second protrusion 440. As well, in this example, the second protrusion 440 extends an approximately 90° angle from the direction of extension of the third protrusion 450. The angle formed between the two directions of extension determines the approximate direction of the interlocking panels connected to the second protrusion 440 and the third protrusion 450 as compared to the first protrusion 430.
The panel body 410, the first protrusion 430, the second protrusion 440, the third protrusion 450, or combinations thereof can further include one or more fastener ports 416 formed therein. The fastener ports 416 can be formed partially or completely through the panel body 410, the first protrusion 430, the second protrusion 440, the third protrusion 450, or combinations thereof. This example depicts three fastener ports 416 formed through the panel body 410, the second protrusion 440, and the third protrusion 450, respectively. The one or more fastener ports 416 can include holes, pores, connections, latches, or other elements capable of being used in conjunction with the one or more fasteners 460 to connect the interlocking panel 400 to a second interlocking panel, such as depicted with relation to the interlocking panels 102 in
The one or more fastener ports 416 can be one or more receiving elements capable of interacting with the fasteners 460 to fix or join one or more components of the panel frame structure 100. Examples of the one or more fastener ports 416 can include inlets, openings, attachment elements, devices, or components. The one or more fastener ports 416 can further include engaging elements for engaging the fasteners 460. The fasteners 460 can be substantially similar to the fastener 250 described with reference to
The interlocking surface panel 500, similar to the interlocking panel 200, can be configured with a number of material characteristics, such as in relation to user choice or environment. In one or more implementations, the material characteristics of the interlocking surface panel 500 generally and/or individual elements thereof can include resistance to abrasion, resistance to specific chemicals/chemistries, specific friction levels, electrical and/or magnetic conductivity, or others as desired. In one or more implementations, the interlocking surface panel 500 can generally be composed of and/or include any combination of one or more materials. The materials usable with one or more implementations of the interlocking surface panel 500 can include any material capable of functioning as a component of one or more of the implementations of the panel frame structure 100 as described herein. The materials useable herein can include metals, polymers, ceramics, natural materials (e.g., wood, stone, etc.), composites, and/or others. The materials can further include combinations of the above materials. The combinations of the above materials can be configured to achieve a specific set of purposes (e.g., ferromagnetism and a rubberized/high friction surface). The combinations of the above materials can include layered combinations, such as vertically layered combinations, horizontally layer combinations, layered combinations with varying angles of the layers, and/or combinations thereof. Further, the combinations can further include interspersed combinations, such as fibers of a first material interspersed through second material (e.g., fiberglass), doped materials, alloys, or others.
The panel body 510 forms the central structure of the interlocking surface panel 500. The panel body 510 can be configured to provide a substantially stationary and contiguous connection to one or more elements of a panel frame structure, as described herein. As used herein, “contiguous” refers to a connection having substantially no gaps between adjoining interlocking surface panels along the panel edge 520. In some implementations, the panel edge 520 can be configured to promote said contiguous connection between adjoining interlocking surface panels. In some examples, the panel edge 520 is configured at an angle with respect to the first supporting surface 512 and/or the second supporting surface 514. The angle of the panel edge 520 can be from about 15° to about 165° as measured from the first supporting surface 512, the second supporting surface 514, or combinations thereof. To achieve an angle above 90° as measured from both the first supporting surface 512 and the second supporting surface 514, the panel edge can change angle at one or more points in between the first supporting surface 512 and the second supporting surface 514. In further implementations, the panel edge 520 can include interlocking elements, such as grooves, ridges, adhesives, or other elements which can help assure a contiguous and flush connection between the interlocking surface panel 500 and the adjoining interlocking surface panel.
In some implementations, the panel body 510 can have a generally square shape, however that is not intended to be limiting. In further implementations, the panel body 510 can be of a variety of shapes including all primary shapes and/or combinations thereof. The panel body 510 can include a variety of diameters, width, lengths, and heights such that the interlocking surface panel 500 can perform one or more structural functions as part of the panel frame structure 100. Structural functions, as used herein, generally refer to controlling the stability, relative position/orientation, or other functions with relation to the physical integrity of both the individual element as well as the overall physical integrity of the panel frame structure 100. In some implementations, the first supporting surface 512 can refer to a plurality of subsurfaces. The plurality of subsurfaces for the first supporting surface 512 can be substantially similar to the plurality of subsurfaces described above with reference to the first supporting surface 212, depicted in
The first supporting surface 512 can be an exposed surface of the interlocking surface panel 500. In some implementations, the first supporting surface 512 can be a substantially flat surface. In further implementations, the first supporting surface 512 can be configured to control one or more physical aspects of the surface, such as rigidity, friction, adhesion, hydrophobicity, oleophobicity, surface roughness, chemical resistance, or others. In some implementations, the controlling of the physical aspects of the surface can be achieved through physical changes to the first supporting surface 512, such as by physically acting upon the first supporting surface 512 (e.g., without changing the composition of the surface). In yet further implementations, the first supporting surface 512 can include one or more materials which differ in composition from that of the remaining portions of the panel body 510. In some examples, the one or more materials used or integrated in the first supporting surface 512 can affect one or more of the physical aspects of the first supporting surface 512, as described above.
The panel body 510 can further include a second supporting surface 514. The second supporting surface 514 can be a surface opposite the first supporting surface 512 on the interlocking surface panel 500. In one or more implementations, the second supporting surface 514 can be substantially similar to the first supporting surface 512. In some implementations, the second supporting surface 514 includes materials, compositions, configurations, or others, as described with reference to the first supporting surface 512.
The panel body 510 can further include a panel edge 520. The panel edge 520 can have a plurality of central sidewalls 522, depicted here as four (4) central sidewalls 522a, 522b, 522c, and 522d. The number, shape, and type of central sidewalls 522 can reflect the one or more shapes which compose the panel body 510. The four (4) central sidewalls 522a, 522b, 522c, and 522d are depicted here as forming a substantially 90° angle at the interface between each of the other central sidewalls 522. However, the comparative angle of the interface may be greater or less than 90°. In some implementations, four (4) central sidewalls 522a, 522b, 522c, and 522d can form an angle at the interface of from about 10° to about 80°.
The panel body 510 can further include one or more fastener ports 516 formed therein. The fastener ports 516 can be formed through the first supporting surface 512, the second supporting surface 514, or both. The one or more fastener ports 516 can include holes, pores, connections, latches, or other elements capable of being used in conjunction with the fastener to connect the interlocking surface panel 500 to a second interlocking panel, such as depicted with relation to the interlocking panels 102 in
The one or more fastener ports 516 can be one or more receiving elements capable of interacting with a fastener to fix or join one or more components of the panel frame structure 100. Examples of the one or more fastener ports 516 can include inlets, openings, attachment elements, devices, or components. The one or more fastener ports 516 can further include engaging elements for engaging the fastener. The engaging elements for the one or more fastener ports 516 can be substantially similar to the engaging elements described with reference to
The interlocking surface panel 500 can further include one or more receiving ports 530. The one or more receiving ports can be configured to receive one or more interlocking teeth. An example of interlocking teeth capable of being received within the receiving ports 530 include the interlocking teeth 244 described with reference to
The one or more receiving ports 530 can be configured to receive one or more of the plurality of interlocking teeth. In one or more implementations, the one or more receiving ports 530 can be configured to create a flat surface in connection with one or more of the plurality of interlocking teeth. The one or more receiving ports 530 can be formed in a variety of shapes, including all primary shapes and/or combinations thereof. Further, the one or more receiving ports 530 can have different shapes as compared to one another, including the formation of pairs or other groupings within the one or more receiving ports 530. The pairs or other groupings of the one or more receiving ports 530 can be based on positioning, orientation, general shape and/or combinations of shape, variations in width/height/depth, angle of penetration, or other facets which can be used to establish a general groupings of any number of the one or more receiving ports 530.
The panel body 510 can further include one or more receiving slots 540. The receiving slots 540 are areas of indentation in the panel body 510. The one or more receiving slots 540 can be configured to receive a portion of the panel body for the connected interlocking panel. The one or more receiving slots 540 can be formed in the panel body 510 along the panel edge 520. In one or more implementations, the one or more receiving slots 540 can be configured to receive multiple connected interlocking panels, such as in configurations where multiple connected interlocking panels can be used to connect the interlocking surface panel 500. In some examples, the interlocking surface panel 500 can have four (4) receiving slots 540, wherein the receiving slots 540 correspond to the position of the one or more receiving ports 530. In one example, the interlocking surface panel 500 can accommodate up to eight (8) interlocking panels, two (2) interlocking panels connected in the one or more receiving slots 540 for each of the central sidewalls 522. The one or more receiving slots 540 can be of a variety of shapes or sizes, such as squares, rectangles, or others as needed. Further, the receiving slots 540 can be configured to accommodate any number of a plurality of interlocking panels. As described with respect to the one or more receiving ports 530, the one or more receiving slots 540 can also be formed completely or partially through the panel body 510.
In one or more examples, the interlocking surface panels 602 and elements thereof can be substantially similar to the interlocking surface panel 500, described with reference to
In operation, the interlocking surface panels 602a and 602b are positioned side-by-side and spaced apart from interlocking surface panels 602c and 602d respectively. Interlocking panels 660a and 660b can be positioned centrally within the space created by spacing apart the interlocking surface panels 602a-602d, shown from the top in
As the interlocking surface panels 602a and 602c are compressed together alongside interlocking surface panels 602b and 602d, the interlocking teeth 670 from each of the interlocking panels 660a and 660b slide into the respective one or more receiving ports 630 a and 630b. In a similar fashion, the upper and lower portion of the panel body 662 for each of the interlocking panels 660a and 660b slide into the respective receiving slots 640 of the interlocking surface panels 602a-602d. As depicted here, the one or more receiving ports 630 are configured having three (3) inline receiving ports 630 as sets of two at each receiving slot 640 along the panel edge 620. Each of the interlocking panels 660 have a total of twelve (12) interlocking teeth 670. Thus, in the present implementation, the combination of four (4) interlocking surface panels 602a-602d presents two sets of a total of twelve (12) in-line receiving ports 630. The twelve (12) in-line receiving ports 630 can then receive the twelve (12) corresponding interlocking teeth 670 on first protrusion 664 and second protrusion 666 for each of the interlocking panels 660a and 660b.
The rigidity of the interlocking teeth 670 alongside a similar rigidity in the interlocking panels 660a and 660b hold the interlocking surface plates 602a-602d in contact with one another. Further, the above described rigidity maintains both position and orientation of the interlocking panels 660a and 660b with respect to the interlocking surface plates 602a-602d. As disclosed here, the size of the surface 600 which can be created from combinations of interlocking panels 660 and interlocking surface panels 602 is limited only by the quantity available. The surface 600 can expand in any direction to serve the purposes of the user or as desired. In further implementations, the surface 600 can be combined with or integrated into other panel frame structures, such as the panel frame structure 100. The surface 600 is not intended to be limited to any particular directionality or use. Elements of the disclosure described with reference to the surface 600 can be applied to create doors, walls, shelves, or other forms of surface as part of a panel frame structure.
In the description above, certain specific details are outlined in order to provide a thorough understanding of various implementations. However, one skilled in the art will understand that the invention may be practiced without these details. In other instances, well-known structures have not been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring descriptions of the implementations. Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims which follow, the word “comprise” and variations thereof, such as, “comprises” and “comprising” are to be construed in an open, inclusive sense, that is, as “including, but not limited to.” Further, headings provided herein are for convenience only and do not interpret the scope or meaning of the claimed invention.
Reference throughout this specification to “one implementation” or “an implementation” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the implementation is included in at least one implementation. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one implementation” or “in an implementation” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same implementation. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more implementations. Also, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. It should also be noted that the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.
Detailed implementations are disclosed herein. However, it is to be understood that the disclosed implementations are intended only as examples. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the aspects herein in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting but rather to provide an understandable description of possible implementations. Various implementations are shown in
The headings (such as “Background” and “Summary”) and sub-headings used herein are intended only for general organization of topics within the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the disclosure of the technology or any aspect thereof. The recitation of multiple implementations having stated features is not intended to exclude other implementations having additional features, or other implementations incorporating different combinations of the stated features. As used herein, the terms “comprise” and “include” and their variants are intended to be non-limiting, such that recitation of items in succession or a list is not to the exclusion of other like items that may also be useful in the devices and methods of this technology. Similarly, the terms “can” and “may” and their variants are intended to be non-limiting, such that recitation that an implementation can or may comprise certain elements or features does not exclude other implementations of the present technology that do not contain those elements or features.
The broad teachings of the present disclosure can be implemented in a variety of forms. Therefore, while this disclosure includes particular examples, the true scope of the disclosure should not be so limited since other modifications will become apparent to the skilled practitioner upon a study of the specification and the following claims. Reference herein to one aspect, or various aspects means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an implementation or particular system is included in at least one implementation or aspect. The appearances of the phrase “in one aspect” (or variations thereof) are not necessarily referring to the same aspect or implementation. It should also be understood that the various method steps discussed herein do not have to be carried out in the same order as depicted, and not each method step is required in each aspect or implementation.
The terms “a” and “an,” as used herein, are defined as one as or more than one. The term “plurality,” as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term “another,” as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms “including” and/or “having,” as used herein, are defined as including (i.e., open language). The phrase “at least one of . . . and . . . ” as used herein refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. As an example, the phrase “at least one of A, B and C” includes A only, B only, C only, or any combination thereof (e.g., AB, AC, BC or ABC).
The preceding description of the implementations has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular implementation are generally not limited to that particular implementation, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected implementation, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations should not be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure. While the foregoing is directed to implementations of the disclosed devices, systems, and methods, other and further implementations of the disclosed devices, systems, and methods can be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope thereof is determined by the claims that follow.
