Connector Bracket for Inclined Roof Windows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inclined roof structures require a balance between achieving large daylight openings and maintaining good insulating and structural properties, which is challenging with traditional roof window arrangements that compromise on either light admission or load-bearing capacity.
Innovation Solution
A connector bracket with non-parallel connecting sections for pivot and fixed connections between mounting brackets of adjacent roof windows, allowing closer placement and optimized load transfer, combined with a flashing assembly for water drainage, to enhance both light admission and structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If traditional separate mounting brackets are used for each roof window, then each window can be independently mounted, but the distance between windows must be large to accommodate mounting brackets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate mounting brackets into a single integrated connector bracket that simultaneously connects multiple roof windows to the roof structure. This merging eliminates the need for separate brackets for each window, reducing the overall space required for mounting hardware and thereby increasing the light admitting area.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector bracket serves multiple functions: it acts as a mounting bracket for securing windows to the roof structure, a connector for joining multiple windows together, and a structural element for load distribution. This multi-functionality replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate components.
2Area of stationary object
If glass panel structures with simple frames are used, then large light admitting areas are achieved, but insulating properties and load-bearing capacity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connector bracket is designed as a composite structure combining rigid mounting sections for structural strength with flexible connecting sections for adaptability. This composite approach maintains load-bearing capacity while allowing the system to support larger glass panel areas.
3Stability of the object's composition
If connector bracket connects both windows rigidly, then structural stability is improved, but mounting difficulty increases due to positioning constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The connector bracket incorporates dynamic elements including pivot connections that allow rotational movement and adjustable connecting sections that can be positioned at different angles. These dynamic features enable easy mounting and adjustment during installation, while the system maintains structural stability once assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector bracket is designed with pre-configured connection points and adjustable sections that can be easily positioned before final tightening. This preliminary configurability simplifies the mounting process by allowing workers to align and position windows before securing them rigidly.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector bracket for interconnecting roof windows mounted adjacent to each other in an inclined roof structure, one roof window being located below the other roof window when seen in the direction of inclination of the roof structure, is disclosed. A first connecting section of the connector bracket extends in a first direction from a centre section of the connector bracket and is configured for being connected to the mounting bracket on the first roof window in a pivot connection. A second connecting section extends in a second direction from a centre section of the connector bracket and is configured for being connected to the mounting bracket on the second roof window in a fixed connection. The first and second directions are non-parallel. A roof window arrangement where roof windows are interconnected by such a connector bracket and a method for mounting at least two roof windows are also disclosed.