Angled Shield Edge Rake Edge for Metal Roof Sealing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing rake edges for metal roofs lack an effective solution to provide a watertight seal and aesthetically pleasing appearance while covering the cut edges of roofing panels, leading to potential water infiltration and visible edges.

Innovation Solution

A rake edge design featuring a downwardly extending side shield with a shield edge at an angle between 5 degrees and 90 degrees, a trim portion parallel to the upper portion, and a receiving cavity to house the cut edge of roofing panels, secured with mechanical fasteners and a waterproof sealant, creating a watertight fit and hiding the cut edges.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a traditional rake edge is used, then the structure is simple, but water infiltration occurs and cut edges are visible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewatertight sealVSAvoidrake edge structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The rake edge is divided into multiple functional segments: a body portion, a downwardly extending side shield, an outwardly extending shield edge, and a trim portion. Each segment performs a specific function - the side shield directs water away, the shield edge provides the outer boundary, and the trim portion covers the upper edge. This segmentation allows the complex functionality to be achieved through coordinated simple parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The rake edge transitions from a traditional single-plane design to a multi-dimensional structure with components extending in multiple directions (downward, outward, and forward). The side shield extends downward from the body, the shield edge extends outward from the side shield, and the trim portion extends forward from the body, creating a three-dimensional configuration that effectively seals and protects the roof edge.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Area of stationary object

If the shield edge extends far outward, then it provides good coverage, but it compromises the watertight seal

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoverage areaVSAvoidwatertight seal
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The shield edge is designed to extend outward from the side shield, creating a dynamic profile that maximizes coverage while maintaining the seal. The angled extension allows the shield edge to reach further outward without compromising the vertical seal between the side shield and the roof panel, optimizing both coverage area and sealing effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Device complexity

If the trim portion is positioned close to the upper portion, then the structure is compact, but it exposes cut edges

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure compactnessVSAvoidaesthetic appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The trim portion is positioned to extend forward from the body at a predetermined distance, preliminarily covering the cut edges of the roof panels before water can reach them. This forward positioning ensures that the trim portion effectively conceals the cut edges and provides a finished appearance, while the overall structure remains compact through the coordinated arrangement of its components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS9809980B2Rake edge
Publication Date: 2017.11.07 QUALITY EDGE INC
  • US9809980B2 patent drawing
  • US9809980B2 patent drawing
  • US9809980B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A rake edge for a roof of a building includes a body having a lower portion and an upper portion. A fold is disposed on an inside end of the body. A downwardly extending side shield protrudes orthogonally from the lower portion. A shield edge protrudes outwardly from the side shield at an angle between 5 degrees and 90 degrees from a planar extent of the side shield. A shield edge underlap projects inwardly parallel with the shield edge. A trim portion extends over the upper portion. The trim portion is generally parallel with the upper portion and spaced a predetermined distance therefrom. A trim portion underlap is disposed between the upper portion and the trim portion.