Deck Board Connecting Clip with Breakable Jam
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for attaching deck boards to substructures using nails or screws result in discoloration, surface damage, loose attachments, and safety hazards, and fail to accommodate expansion and contraction due to environmental exposure, requiring skilled installation and leading to uneven spacing.
Innovation Solution
A device with a breakable jam connecting the spring leaf to the top plate allows for easy installation by unskilled personnel, enabling equal spacing and accommodating board expansion, while the spring leaf ensures consistent spacing and easy replacement of boards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If nails or screws are used to attach deck boards, then the attachment strength is improved, but the surface appearance deteriorates due to discoloration and marring
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the fastening function from visible surface-mounted nails or screws and relocates it to hidden clips that attach to the underside of deck boards, eliminating surface discoloration and marring while maintaining attachment strength
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces intermediate connecting clips as mediators between the deck boards and substructure, replacing direct nail/screw penetration with an indirect mechanical connection that preserves board surface integrity
2Ease of manufacture
If nails are used to attach deck boards, then initial attachment is achieved, but reliability deteriorates over time as nails work loose and rust
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs spring clips with elastic elements that dynamically adapt to board expansion and contraction, maintaining constant attachment pressure and preventing the loosening that occurs with rigid nail connections
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the mechanical parameters of the attachment system by using elastic spring clips with adjustable compression forces, allowing the connection to accommodate dimensional changes in the boards while maintaining reliable attachment
3Ease of operation
If conventional attachment devices are used, then boards can be fixed in place, but adaptability deteriorates as boards cannot accommodate expansion and contraction
Solution Approach 1:
The spring clips provide dynamic attachment that moves with the boards, allowing fixation while simultaneously accommodating expansion and contraction due to temperature and moisture changes
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic spring elements provide beforehand cushioning by storing mechanical energy during compression, allowing the attachment system to absorb dimensional changes in the boards without failure
4Stability of the object's composition
If multiple connecting devices are used to connect adjacent deck boards, then structural stability is improved, but device complexity increases making installation difficult for unskilled persons
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functions of multiple separate components (connector body, spring leaves, breakable jam, and positioning elements) into a single integrated connecting device that maintains structural stability while simplifying installation for unskilled persons
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device allows unskilled installation, maintains equal board spacing, and permits free expansion and contraction of boards, preventing damage and safety hazards, ensuring stable and aesthetically pleasing deck surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one spring leaf of said device provides for expansion and contraction of the boards after installation
Implementation Method 2
The breakable jam breaks when the boards expand due to water absorption or temperature rise
Implementation Method 3
The breakable jam breaks when the boards expand due to water absorption or temperature rise
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device for connecting building boards comprising an at least partially flat top plate, including a first planar flange and a second planar flange, each of said planar flanges extending outward in a substantially horizontal plane, at least one bottom tab extending downwardly from a bottom surface of said top plate and at least one spring leaf, a first end of the spring leaf is connected to said tab, and a second end of the spring leaf comprises a breakable jam. The invention further relates to a kit of parts comprising a device according to the invention a building board comprising a slot to receive a planar flange of the device. Preferably the building board is a wood fiber filled PVC deck board. The invention also relates to a kit of parts according to the invention, further comprising a support joist with mounting tabs to receive the spring clips