Covering Device with Drip Edge for Construction Element Water Management

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing covering devices for construction elements fail to effectively prevent runoff water and are aesthetically compromised, and they require the use of glue for junctions, which can lead to slipping issues.

Innovation Solution

A covering device with a second profile featuring an inclined face that extends beyond the strip, forming a drip system to channel water away and includes a vertical branch for mechanical retention, and junction pieces with deformable tongues to enhance friction and prevent slipping.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If the inclined face does not protrude outwardly from the strip of the second profile, then the structure is simpler, but the aesthetics are negatively impacted and water runoff is not effectively prevented

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructure simplicityVSAvoidwater retention and solar radiation

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The inclined face is extended in the horizontal dimension beyond the strip to create an effective drip system. This dimensional extension allows the inclined face to protrude outwardly and form a sharp vertical edge that effectively channels water away while maintaining structural integrity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The extended inclined face with sharp vertical edge converts the harmful effect of water runoff into a beneficial drip system. The geometry of the extended inclined face naturally channels water away from the seal and construction element, preventing water retention while the overhang provides solar radiation protection

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

2Reliability

If junction pieces are stuck in rails with putty, then they are fixed in place, but they become inaccessible unless the device is disassembled and slipping can still occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvejunction stabilityVSAvoidjunction accessibility and adjustability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The chemical bonding method (putty) is replaced with a mechanical retention system. The junction piece features a protrusion that engages with a corresponding recess in the rail, creating a mechanical interlock that provides both secure fixation and accessibility. This mechanical system allows the junction piece to be inserted, adjusted, and removed without disassembling the entire device

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The junction piece design enables self-retention through the protrusion-recess engagement. The mechanical feature automatically secures the junction piece in place upon insertion, eliminating the need for additional adhesives or fasteners while maintaining ease of installation and maintenance

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP2589723B1Device for covering a section of a suspended construction element

Publication Date: 2016.04.27 DANI ALU

Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4b
Figure 5a~5c

AI summary

The device (1) has an upper heel (22) intended for reception of a seal (J) between a profile (2) and a section (T) of a suspended construction element (E). Another profile (3) covers the former profile and includes a strip (30) vertically placed in front of a main core (20) of the former profile at predetermined distance to cover a transverse fixing unit (201). A tilted side (31) has an internal part (310) partially covering the upper heel, and an external part (311) extending from the internal part and ending in a vertical sharp edge (312) that forms a break-drop system.