Façade Attachment Device Ratcheting Mechanism Thermal Bridging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for connecting façade walls to support walls using continuous insulation result in thermal bridging, moisture-related deterioration, and reliance on adhesive backing, which impede drainage and increase labor and material costs.
Innovation Solution
A façade attachment device comprising a base with a toothed elongated member and a retainer with a ratcheting mechanism, creating a gap for drainage and eliminating the need for adhesive backing, while transferring compressive forces to reduce buckling and thermal bridging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If ties pass through the continuous insulation to connect paneling to the support wall, then the paneling is securely connected, but thermal bridges are created that reduce the efficiency of the continuous insulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a base plate as an intermediary component that distributes the connection load across multiple insulation panels rather than passing a single tie through the insulation. This mediator approach maintains structural connection strength while preserving the continuous insulation barrier, eliminating thermal bridges.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is segmented into a base plate that interfaces with multiple insulation panels and a retainer that connects to the paneling. This segmentation allows the connection force to be distributed across multiple points, avoiding the need for a single penetrating tie that would create a thermal bridge.
2Stability of the object's composition
If continuous insulation panels are installed in complete contact with the AB/WRB, then the insulation is securely positioned, but water drainage is impeded and water becomes trapped causing accelerated deterioration
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate is designed with a segmented or textured underside that creates small gaps between the insulation panels and the AB/WRB. This segmentation maintains overall insulation positioning while providing drainage pathways for trapped water to escape, preventing moisture accumulation and deterioration.
3Stability of the object's composition
If adhesive backing is used to secure continuous insulation panels, then the panels are held in place, but drainage is impeded and additional labor and material costs are incurred
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the chemical adhesive system with a mechanical retention system consisting of a base plate and retainer. This mechanical system secures the insulation panels through physical interlocking and friction rather than chemical adhesion, eliminating the need for adhesive materials and simplifying the installation process.
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 effectively reduces thermal bridging, facilitates water drainage, and maintains panel integrity under compressive loads, enhancing the thermal efficiency and durability of continuous insulation systems.
Implementation Method 1
The ratcheting mechanism comprises a locking member engageable with at least one of the plurality of teeth of the elongated member to prevent retainer from moving in at least one direction
Implementation Method 2
This gap facilitates drainage. Water can be trapped in the gap between the continuous insulation and AB/WRB due to capillary action
Implementation Method 3
Continuous insulation panels are often installed with adhesive backing to ensure they stay in place
Data Source
AI summary
A facade attachment device for connecting an exterior façade wall to a support wall. The base has an elongated member extending transversely from a mounting plate. The elongated member has a plurality of teeth. The retainer has an insulation engaging portion, a facade attachment portion, and a receiving passage. The receiving passage is sized to receive the elongated member. The receiving passage extends through the insulation engaging portion. The retainer has a ratcheting mechanism. The ratcheting mechanism comprises a locking member engageable with at least one of the plurality of teeth of the elongated member to prevent retainer from moving in at least one direction. The façade attachment portion is configured to receive a connection with the façade wall.