Deck Platform Hanger Joist Runner Ergonomic Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of deck materials is challenging due to the unfavorable height of deck surfaces, which puts strain on installers and requires inefficient use of ladders or scaffolding, making the process time-consuming and physically demanding.
Innovation Solution
The use of joist runners with top and bottom joist engagement structures, including pivot points, rollers, and adjustable components, allows for easy mounting to joists, providing a stable and ergonomic working surface at a comfortable height for installers, eliminating the need for extensive scaffolding or ladders.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If deck surface height is maintained at standard elevation, then structural integrity is preserved, but installer ergonomics deteriorate causing physical strain
Solution Approach 1:
The deck structure is segmented into multiple levels: the main deck surface remains at standard height for structural integrity, while adjustable work platforms are introduced as separate, movable segments that can be positioned at ergonomic heights for installers. This segmentation allows each component to serve its optimal function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
Adjustable work platforms serve as intermediary elements between the fixed deck structure and the installer's body. These platforms mediate the height discrepancy, providing a comfortable working surface while maintaining the structural deck at its proper elevation. The platforms can be adjusted to different heights and positions to accommodate various installer needs.
2Ease of operation
If ladders or scaffolding are used to achieve ergonomic height, then installer comfort improves, but installation time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The work platform is merged with the deck framing system through direct attachment to joists, eliminating the need for separate scaffolding structures. This integration allows installers to work at ergonomic heights while maintaining quick access to the deck surface, combining the benefits of elevated work surfaces with rapid installation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The work platforms are designed to be dynamically adjustable in height and position along the joists, allowing installers to optimize their working height for different tasks. This dynamic adjustability eliminates the need for fixed scaffolding, enabling quick repositioning and faster installation without compromising installer comfort.
3Reliability
If fixed scaffolding is used to provide working height, then installer safety improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The complex scaffolding structure is extracted and replaced with simplified attachment mechanisms that directly engage with existing deck joists. The essential safety function is retained through secure attachment, while the unnecessary structural complexity of traditional scaffolding is removed. The solution uses simple clamps or brackets that attach to joists without requiring extensive framing.
Solution Approach 2:
The work platform attachment system serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the platform, ensures installer safety through secure attachment, allows height adjustment, and enables quick installation and removal. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate safety rails, support structures, and adjustment mechanisms that would be required in a traditional scaffolding system.
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
This solution enables efficient and safe installation of deck boards by positioning the working surface at a comfortable height, reducing strain on installers and eliminating the need for costly and hazardous scaffolding or ladders, thereby increasing installation speed and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The roller is rotatably mounted between the side bracket and the main body and is rotatable about an axis extending perpendicular to the side face of the main body
Implementation Method 2
The top joist engagement structure includes a pivot point configured to engage with a joist to pivot the deck platform hanger to engage the joist with the top joist engager and the bottom joist engager
Data Source
AI summary
A deck platform hanger/joist runner includes a flat platform, and a joist engager coupled to the flat platform. The joist engager includes a top joist engagement structure having a top joist engager and a bottom joist engagement structure having a bottom joist engager. The top joist engagement structure includes a pivot point configured to engage with a joist to pivot the deck platform hanger to engage the joist with the top joist engager and the bottom joist engager.