Deck Mounting System with Anchor Frame and Bracket
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mounting systems for external structures like decks and porches often lack robustness and efficiency, particularly when attached to buildings, as they rely on superficial connections and can be challenging to install correctly, especially when the external structure is added after the building is complete.
Innovation Solution
A mounting system comprising an anchor frame with a plate element and anchor elements that secure to structural elements of a building, combined with a bracket that couples with the external structure, providing a robust and efficient method for attaching external structures to a building's internal structural elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the deck structure is built as a standalone structure with its own support components, then the deck can be constructed independently from the building, but the connection to the building becomes superficial and not structurally robust
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the deck support structure with the building's floor structure by integrating the ledger board attachment system with the floor band board and joist framework. This merging creates a unified structural system where the deck and building share common load-bearing elements, thereby strengthening the connection while maintaining construction independence through the use of attachable components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested configuration where the ledger board is positioned within the plane of the floor band board, and support posts are nested between the floor joists. This nesting allows the deck structure to be embedded within the building's structural framework, creating a robust integrated connection while preserving the modular nature of the deck assembly.
2Strength
If bolts and brackets are used to secure the deck structure to the building, then the connection can be structurally sound, but proper placement and alignment become difficult especially when the deck is added after building completion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates pre-drilled holes and pre-positioned attachment points in the ledger board and floor band board that align before final assembly. This preliminary preparation of connection points simplifies the installation process by eliminating the need for complex measurement and alignment operations during on-site construction, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining structural integrity.
3Strength
If the deck structure relies on the building for structural support, then the connection must be structurally sound, but current mounting systems lack robustness and efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the ledger board and support post components to serve multiple functions: the ledger board provides both the attachment surface for the deck and the structural connection element to the building, while the support posts simultaneously support the deck structure and align with the building's floor joist system. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate mounting components needed, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining robust load-bearing capacity.
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting system for mounting an external structure, such as a deck, with a building includes an anchor frame that couples with structural elements of the building and a bracket that couples with both the external structure and the anchor frame for securement. The anchor frame includes a plate element configured for mounting against a board of a building and anchor elements extending from the plate element and configured for mounting against a second board of a building. The bracket has a first face portion configured for coupling with the anchor frame and a second face portion spaced from the first face portion and configured for mounting with an external structure.