Adjustable Support System for Building Cladding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building structures face challenges with thermal insulation due to high thermal conductivity in connectors and structural members between the substrate and cladding, and uneven substrate surfaces that hinder uniform cladding installation.
Innovation Solution
The method involves installing an adjustable support system comprising base bracket members, clip members, and an outer bracket, using a story pole for alignment and adjustment, to ensure proper orientation and securement of the cladding while addressing thermal insulation and substrate imperfections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If continuous metal connectors are used between substrate and cladding, then structural strength is improved, but thermal insulation deteriorates due to high thermal conductivity
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous metal connector is divided into discrete bracket members (base bracket, intermediate bracket, outer bracket) that are spaced apart and can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows interruption of thermal conduction paths while maintaining structural support functionality through the distributed bracket system.
Solution Approach 2:
Non-metallic intermediate elements (such as plastic or composite materials) are introduced between metal bracket components to create thermal breaks. These intermediary materials have low thermal conductivity, preventing direct thermal conduction between substrate and cladding while still allowing mechanical connection.
2Ease of manufacture
If cladding is installed directly on uneven substrate, then installation simplicity is improved, but cladding uniformity deteriorates due to substrate imperfections
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket members are designed with adjustable positioning capabilities, allowing them to be dynamically repositioned to compensate for substrate irregularities. The adjustable support system enables adaptation to varying substrate conditions while maintaining consistent cladding installation planes.
Solution Approach 2:
The position and orientation parameters of the bracket members are made variable to accommodate substrate imperfections. By adjusting bracket placement and angle, the system compensates for uneven surfaces, ensuring uniform cladding installation despite substrate variations.
3Manufacturing precision
If adjustable support system with multiple brackets is used, then cladding uniformity is improved, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Brackets are pre-assembled in groups (base bracket with intermediate bracket and outer bracket) before installation. This preliminary assembly reduces on-site complexity by minimizing the number of separate components to be handled and installed, while still providing the adjustable support system needed for uniform cladding installation.
4Measurement precision
If story pole is used for alignment, then alignment precision is improved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Alignment markings and reference features are pre-established on the story pole and bracket members during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation enables faster on-site alignment by eliminating the need for complex measurement procedures, reducing installation time while maintaining alignment precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of installing a plurality of brackets. A bracket is provided as is a story pole. A plurality of brackets are releasably attached to the story pole. The story pole is positioned proximate an outside surface to which the plurality of brackets is to be attached. The first one of the plurality of brackets is attached to the outside surface in a desired orientation. The second, as well as any other brackets, is attached to the outside surface in a desired orientation. The story pole is released from the brackets leaving the plurality of brackets attached to the outside surface in alignment in at least one dimension.