Adjustable Roof Window Flashing Mounting Bracket
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of mounting standardized flashing members on structural skylights with varying angles, which are exposed to harsh weather conditions, leading to high customization costs and potential installation errors.
Innovation Solution
A method using connector brackets attached to the window frame to secure flashing members, allowing for easier installation, reduced risk of errors, and the formation of an air gap for insulation, with optional compensation members to adapt to angle variations and improve water-tightness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If flashing members are customized or adjusted in-situ to accommodate varying window angles, then adaptability to different building designs is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by making the flashing member's second leg adjustable in angle relative to the first leg. This allows the same standardized flashing member to adapt to different window mounting angles (varying from building to building) by changing the angular parameter of the second leg, rather than creating custom flashings for each angle. The flashing member can be manufactured with an adjustable joint or mechanism that permits angle variation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by introducing adjustability into the flashing member structure. The second leg can be positioned at different angles or adjusted in-situ to match the specific mounting angle requirements of each structural skylight application. This dynamic capability allows a single standardized component to serve multiple configurations without requiring custom manufacturing for each angle.
2Ease of manufacture
If standardized flashing members are used instead of customized ones, then ease of manufacture and cost are improved, but adaptability to varying window angles deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves universality by designing a flashing member that can serve multiple functions and configurations. The first leg is substantially perpendicular to the window frame, while the second leg can be adjusted to different angles to accommodate various mounting scenarios (different building designs, ridge constellations, etc.). This universal design allows one standardized component to replace multiple angle-specific custom flashings.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes to enable a standardized flashing member to adapt to different applications. By allowing the angle parameter of the second leg to be modified (either during manufacturing in a standardized process or adjusted in-situ), the same basic flashing member design can be applied across multiple projects with varying angle requirements, maintaining standardization benefits while achieving adaptability.
3Reliability
If screws or fastening means penetrate the window frame to secure flashing members, then securing reliability is improved, but structural integrity and insulation are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary element (the connector bracket or mounting bracket) between the flashing member and the window frame. Instead of fastening directly through the window frame, the flashing member is secured to the bracket, which is then attached to the frame at predetermined locations. This intermediary approach maintains securing reliability while preserving the integrity of the window frame structure and avoiding direct penetration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-attaching mounting brackets to the window frame at predetermined positions before installing the flashing member. These brackets are prepared in advance at the factory or during window assembly, creating ready-made attachment points that eliminate the need for penetrating fasteners during field installation. The brackets serve as pre-positioned anchoring points for the flashing members.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for mounting a flashing for a roof window mounted on an upstand, where one or more connector brackets are attached to the window and where the/each flashing member is attached to the window frame via at least one connector bracket. For use in the method a flashing member having at least one insulating member and a compensation member on the inner side is provided. The compensation member, which allows use of one flashing member for different angles of the window, is preferably compressible, expandable or provided with means, such as cutting lines, for allowing an easy removable of a part thereof as well as elastic.