Continuous Anchor for Adjustable Unitized Curtainwall Façade
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building façade systems are cumbersome, difficult to install, and costly due to their inability to adjust for construction tolerances of concrete slabs, often requiring embedded anchoring systems that conflict with steel reinforcing systems and demand precise installation.
Innovation Solution
An interlocking unitized curtainwall building façade frame that is vertically and horizontally adjustable, utilizing a continuous anchor with pre-punched holes and lip portions, allowing for secure attachment to concrete slabs without embedded anchoring, and providing insulation and smoke/sound barriers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If embedded anchoring systems are used to secure building façade frames to concrete slabs, then structural attachment is achieved, but installation becomes cumbersome and difficult due to conflicts with steel reinforcing systems and requirement for precise installation
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the anchor from the embedded state and repositions it to a surface-mounted configuration. The anchor is placed on top of the concrete slab and secures the frame member without requiring embedding into the slab, thereby eliminating conflicts with steel reinforcing systems and simplifying installation while maintaining attachment strength
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor includes pre-formed engagement features and positioning elements that are prepared in advance during manufacturing. This preliminary action allows the anchor to be easily positioned and secured to the concrete slab surface without requiring complex field adjustments or precise installation tolerances
2Reliability
If embedded anchoring systems with precise installation requirements are used, then structural integrity is maintained, but installation time and cost increase due to limited tolerances for changes in building conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor design incorporates adjustable and flexible engagement mechanisms that can adapt to variations in concrete slab positioning and orientation. This dynamic capability allows the anchor to maintain reliable structural attachment while accommodating construction tolerances and building condition changes without requiring reinstallation
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor includes adjustable geometric parameters such as movable components and configurable engagement features that can be modified during installation to match actual site conditions. This flexibility maintains structural integrity while reducing installation time by eliminating the need for precise pre-planning and tolerance control
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional façade frames are used that do not accommodate construction tolerances, then manufacturing is simplified, but installation becomes difficult and costly requiring precise placement
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities including movable components and flexible engagement features that allow the frame to be positioned within a range of tolerances. This maintains simple manufacturing processes while providing the adaptability needed to accommodate variations in concrete slab placement during construction
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to the exterior building envelope systems. This invention particularly relates to a façade system supported by a continuous anchor secured to the slab without embedded attachments.