Angled Furring Strip and Wedge for Fast Vertical Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mounting systems for architectural panels and furring strips require multiple shim sizes and skilled labor to achieve a vertical reference plane, making the alignment process difficult and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A z-clip and furring strip system with an angled wedge that allows for continuous vertical adjustment relative to the wall, eliminating the need for multiple shim sizes and reducing skilled labor requirements, by using a wedge with a matching angle to the strip that can be slid under the clip or strip to adjust its vertical position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional shimming methods are used to align z-clips and furring strips to a vertical reference plane, then alignment precision can be achieved, but the installation process becomes time-consuming and complex requiring multiple shim sizes and skilled labor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameter of the mounting system by introducing an angled back (non-perpendicular to the mounting surface) on the z-clip and furring strip. This angular parameter allows the component to self-align with the vertical reference plane when the wedge is inserted, eliminating the need for multiple shim sizes and manual alignment adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge acts as an intermediary element between the mounting surface and the z-clip/furring strip. By inserting the wedge under the angled back, it mediates the alignment process, automatically positioning the component at the correct angle and depth without requiring skilled labor or multiple shim components.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple shim sizes are used to achieve vertical alignment, then alignment precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for multiple components and variations
Solution Approach 1:
The angled back design provides a universal solution that works for all z-clips and furring strips regardless of the specific alignment needed. A single wedge component can adjust the position and angle of any mounted element, replacing the need for multiple specialized shim components of varying sizes and configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
By changing the geometric parameter from perpendicular to angled, the system achieves alignment precision without requiring multiple discrete components. The angular parameter inherent in the design allows continuous adjustment through wedge insertion, simplifying the system from multiple discrete shims to a single versatile wedge mechanism.
3Manufacturing precision
If skilled labor is used for shimming operations, then alignment precision is maintained, but productivity decreases due to the time-consuming nature of the process
Solution Approach 1:
The angled back design enables the z-clip and furring strip to self-align automatically when the wedge is inserted. The geometry of the angled back working with the wedge causes the component to naturally position itself at the correct angle and depth, eliminating the need for skilled labor to perform complex shimming operations and significantly improving installation productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge serves as a simple intermediary tool that automates the alignment process. Instead of requiring skilled workers to manually measure, calculate, and install multiple shims, the wedge mediates the process by automatically positioning the component when inserted, making the task accessible to less skilled labor and increasing overall productivity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enables quick and easy alignment of z-clips and furring strips to a vertical reference plane, reducing installation time and complexity while ensuring planarity of mounted surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
a wedge having a wedge back side configured to be positioned against a substrate, with at least a portion of the wedge back side being disposed between the back face of the furring strip and the substrate
Data Source
AI summary
A furring strip, or other similar element, has a back side that is angled relative to the front face. A wedge is designed to be used with the furring strip, where the wedge has an angle that matches the angle of the back side of the furring strip. Thus, the wedge can be slid under the furring strip at a desired position to angle the furring strip in its use position, while allowing the furring strip to be vertically offset from the wall. The system provided by the furring strip and wedge can quickly and easily set furring strips on a substrate to a vertical reference plane, thus providing an easy fit for a wall panel, or other such applications, to be subsequently attached thereto.