Flooring Support System Slope Adjustment Waterproofing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing outdoor flooring systems struggle to provide a level, waterproof, and structurally stable surface on sloped or uneven decks and rooftops without compromising the integrity of waterproof membranes, particularly in commercial buildings and residential decks with mechanical penetrations.
Innovation Solution
A flooring support system comprising three substrate components – structural panels, reversible structural panels, and a base mounting plate – that can be mechanically or gravitationally attached, allowing for drainage and wind load management, while maintaining waterproof integrity by using a unique twist and lock system and bowl head screws for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If stone walkways or terraces are installed on sloped or uneven surfaces, then the aesthetic appeal and functionality of outdoor flooring is improved, but the structural stability and levelness of the flooring substrate deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support system employs adjustable support elements that can be modified in height and position to accommodate varying slope conditions. The system transitions from a static, fixed-height support structure to a dynamic, adjustable one that can be configured to create a level surface on uneven terrain while maintaining structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The flooring system is divided into modular components including individual support elements, substrate panels, and flooring tiles. This segmentation allows each component to be independently adjusted and configured to achieve the desired level surface on sloped terrain, with each module contributing to the overall structural stability.
2Strength
If mechanical penetrations are made through waterproof membranes to attach flooring substrates, then the structural attachment and stability are improved, but the waterproof integrity of the membrane deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A waterproof flashing element serves as an intermediary component between the roofing membrane and the flooring substrate attachment system. This flashing element provides a dedicated attachment interface that mechanically secures the substrate while maintaining the waterproof continuity of the membrane, eliminating the need for direct penetrations through the membrane itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system is segmented into separate functional components: the waterproof membrane layer, the flashing element for attachment, and the substrate panel. This segmentation allows the membrane to remain intact for waterproofing while the flashing provides the mechanical attachment function, separating the two conflicting requirements.
3Strength
If thick concrete pads are used to support thin-gauged stones, then the structural support capability is improved, but the overall weight and complexity of the flooring system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support system changes the structural parameters by using hollow core substrate panels with optimized wall thickness and material density. These panels provide sufficient structural support for thin-gauged stone flooring while maintaining a significantly lower weight compared to traditional thick concrete pads, achieving the required strength-to-weight ratio.
Solution Approach 2:
The substrate panels utilize composite material construction combining concrete or similar material with hollow core structures. This composite design provides the necessary structural support capability for thin stone flooring while reducing overall weight and material usage compared to solid thick concrete pads.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple support components and adjustment mechanisms are added to accommodate slopes and drainage, then the adaptability and drainage capability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support elements are designed as multi-functional components that simultaneously provide height adjustment for slope accommodation, structural support for the substrate, and drainage pathways. This universality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, simplifying the overall system while maintaining adaptability to various slope and drainage requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the functions of support, adjustment, and drainage into an integrated support structure. The hollow core configuration of the substrate panels combines structural support with internal drainage pathways, while adjustable elements integrate height modification with the support function, reducing component count and system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A flooring substrate system that uses one of three substrate components upon which various types of finish flooring may be attached above a deck structure. The deck structure may be open lumber framed or may be a waterproofed planar surface. Affixation of the flooring system may be by direct connection or by gravitational placement. Height and slope adjustable components interlock through a plunge, twist and locking teeth arrangement to form supporting members beneath the substrate components. A special fastening system is utilized with one the substrate components to provide a floating structural panel assembly that may be gravitationally placed atop a waterproofed deck while allowing for water to pass under the top finish flooring.