Adjustable Fixing Anchor for Facade Aperture Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for fastening facade aperture fillings, such as windows and doors, into building walls are limited in adjustability and durability, particularly in reinforced concrete constructions, as they do not allow for post-installation position adjustments or prevent irreversible deformation due to concrete curing and shrinkage, and fail to integrate insulation effectively during the casting process.

Innovation Solution

The fixing anchor system consists of a clamping segment integrated into the reinforced concrete and a mounting segment that can be adjusted to securely attach facade aperture fillings from the exterior, allowing for post-installation adjustments and ensuring the filling remains sealed and level, even as the concrete structure changes shape due to aging and drying.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If traditional metal anchoring elements are screwed or nailed to the window frame and then nailed to the wall, then installation simplicity and low cost are achieved, but installation quality is low and the installation becomes unchangeable and non-adjustable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation simplicityVSAvoidadjustability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing anchor is divided into three distinct segments: a clamping segment for anchoring to the wall, a mounting segment for connecting to the window frame, and an adjustment segment for positioning adjustments. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function independently, enabling both simple installation and post-installation adjustment capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The fixing anchor incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through the adjustment segment which includes threaded rods and nuts that allow the mounting segment to be repositioned relative to the clamping segment. This dynamic feature enables the installation to be modified after initial installation, contrasting with traditional fixed anchoring systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If the window frame is equipped with fastening studs and fixed using screws after installation, then simple installation and detachability are achieved, but levelling of planarity can be performed only by backing a part of the frame and the installation remains unchangeable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation simplicityVSAvoidlevelling precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustment segment incorporates threaded rods and nuts that enable dynamic adjustment of the mounting segment position in multiple directions. This allows precise levelling and planarity adjustment after installation, eliminating the need to back the frame and enabling continuous adjustment until optimal positioning is achieved

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The fixing anchor system allows the installer to perform self-adjustment of the window frame position using the integrated adjustment mechanisms. The threaded rods and nuts enable the installer to independently level and position the frame without requiring additional tools or external assistance for backing operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Manufacturing precision

If adhesives, foam or walling material are used for firm fixation, then good levelling and planarity are achieved, but the once installed window frame is no longer positionally changeable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelevelling precisionVSAvoidpositional changeability
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system separates the anchoring function (clamping segment embedded in wall) from the mounting function (mounting segment connecting to frame), with an intermediate adjustment segment. This segmentation allows the frame to be securely anchored while maintaining adjustment capability through the threaded mechanisms, unlike adhesive systems that permanently bond all components together

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The threaded rods and nuts in the adjustment segment provide a dynamic mechanical connection that secures the frame while allowing for positional adjustments. The system maintains firm fixation through the threaded connection but retains the ability to change position by loosening and repositioning the threaded components, contrasting with permanent adhesive bonds

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Strength

If clamps are fastened to the wall and connected with the window frame using groove and feather system, then firm fixation is achieved, but the system lacks adjustable elements and the filling position cannot be changed after final fixation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixation strengthVSAvoidposition adjustability
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing anchor replaces the static groove and feather connection with a dynamic threaded rod and nut mechanism. This allows the mounting segment to be firmly secured to the clamping segment while enabling adjustment of the window frame position by loosening and repositioning the threaded connection, providing both strength and adjustability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP4180610B1Fixing anchor and a set containing at least one this fixing anchor
Publication Date: 2024.05.15 PPZS SRO
  • EP4180610B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4180610B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP4180610B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

The fixing anchor (1) for position-adapted mounting of the filling (2) of the facade aperture (32) to the facade aperture (32) of the prefabricated panel (33) or the monolithic reinforced concrete construction. The fixing anchor (1) consists of the clamping segment intended for firm connection with the mass of the prefabricated panel (33) or the monolithic reinforced concrete construction and of the mounting segment intended for firm or dismountable connection with the filing (2) of the facade aperture (32). The mounting segment is adjusted for the dismountable connection with the clamping segment with a possibility to set up mutual position of the mounting segment against the clamping segment and thus also setting of the mutual position of the filling (2) of the facade aperture (32) against the facade aperture (32). The clamping segment is a clamping bush (3) which is adapted for integration into the prefabricated panel (33) or the monolithic reinforced concrete construction. The mounting segment is formed by the bearing link (7) and the adjustable draw rod (8).