Brick Tie Protrusions Maintain Clearance Gap
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current brick ties lack a stop or gauge to maintain a defined clearance gap between brick cladding and frame structures, leading to potential moisture penetration, damp issues, and structural damage.
Innovation Solution
A brick tie design featuring a body member with a first and second protrusion extending in the same direction, creating a gap to maintain the necessary clearance, and including ridges and apertures for enhanced mortar bonding and fastening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional flat metal strap brick ties are used without protrusions, then the brick tie can be easily installed, but the clearance gap between brick cladding and frame structure cannot be maintained, leading to moisture penetration and structural damage
Solution Approach 1:
The brick tie is segmented into a body member and multiple protrusions extending from it. The protrusions create distinct zones: a first protrusion maintains the clearance gap between brick cladding and frame structure, while a second protrusion provides a stop for the brick tie. This segmentation allows the single brick tie component to simultaneously maintain structural integrity and prevent moisture penetration without requiring multiple separate components.
2Productivity
If the clearance gap is reduced to accommodate tighter spacing, then installation space is optimized, but drainage and drying potential are insufficient, leading to wood rot and structural damage
Solution Approach 1:
The protrusions on the brick tie automatically maintain the proper clearance gap during installation without requiring additional tools or measurement devices. The first protrusion extends to define the gap distance, and the second protrusion provides a stop that prevents over-installation. This self-gauging feature ensures the clearance gap is consistently maintained at the optimal size for both installation efficiency and moisture drainage, eliminating the need for manual measurement and adjustment.
3Ease of operation
If brick ties are installed without a stop or gauge, then installation process is simpler, but the defined clearance gap cannot be maintained, compromising the air gap function
Solution Approach 1:
The protrusions are pre-formed on the brick tie during manufacturing, with the first protrusion extending to the precise distance needed to maintain the clearance gap. This preliminary positioning feature is built into the brick tie itself, so that during installation, the protrusion automatically establishes the correct gap dimension without requiring the installer to perform additional measurement or adjustment actions. The second protrusion provides a stop that prevents over-installation, ensuring the clearance gap is maintained throughout the installation process.
Data Source
AI summary
A brick tie including a body member, a first protrusion extending from a first location on the body member, and a second protrusion extending from a second location on the body member. The first and second protrusions may extend in the same direction relative to the body member. A gap may be defined between the first and second protrusions.