Gutter Mesh Clip Mounting for Rounded Gutter Lips
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of gutter mesh poses Occupational Health & Safety issues due to the need for workers to be positioned at height, and it requires the use of safety devices, increasing time and cost. Additionally, some gutter mesh systems are difficult to install accurately, especially on gutters with rounded lips.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for installing gutter mesh using clips with projections and landing areas that allow for easy attachment to the gutter edge without tools. The system includes retainers to secure the mesh in place, and inner retainers with adhesive for attaching the mesh to the roof without drilling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If gutter mesh is installed by positioning workers at height on the roof, then the mesh can be fitted to the gutter edges, but Occupational Health & Safety issues arise and safety devices are required, increasing time and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces clips as an intermediary component that attaches to the gutter edge and provides a secure mounting point for the mesh. The clips are installed on the ground or at lower heights, and the mesh is then attached to the clips, eliminating the need for workers to position themselves at height on the roof while still achieving secure mesh installation.
2Strength
If fixing screws are used to attach gutter mesh to the roof, then the mesh can be securely fixed, but the installation difficulty increases and leakage risk through the roof around the screws arises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the fastening function from the roof structure itself and relocates it to the gutter edge through the use of clips. The clips are attached to the gutter edge (not the roof), and the mesh is secured to the clips. This removes the need for screws penetrating the roof, thereby eliminating leakage risks while maintaining secure mesh attachment.
3Ease of operation
If gutter mesh is installed by screwing the gutter-side edge of the mesh to the gutter, then the mesh can be attached to the gutter, but accurate positioning is difficult due to rounded lips on most gutters
Solution Approach 1:
The clips serve as an intermediary between the rounded gutter lip and the mesh. The clips are designed to attach to the rounded lip and provide a flat, stable surface (landing area) on which the mesh can be accurately positioned. This intermediary component bridges the gap between the curved gutter surface and the need for precise mesh alignment.
4Ease of operation
If traditional gutter mesh installation methods are used, then the mesh can be attached to the gutter, but the process requires multiple steps including drilling, screwing, and positioning, increasing installation time
Solution Approach 1:
The clips are pre-formed with the attachment features needed for both the gutter edge and the mesh. The clips can be quickly attached to the gutter edge without drilling or complex fastening, and the mesh can then be simply placed onto the clips. This preliminary preparation of the clips with integrated attachment features eliminates multiple installation steps and reduces overall installation time.
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 system enables safe and efficient installation of gutter mesh, reducing the risk of accidents and costs associated with height safety measures. It allows for accurate positioning and secure attachment of the mesh to both the gutter and the roof, preventing debris entry and water flow issues.
Implementation Method 1
inner retainers with adhesive for attaching the mesh to the roof without drilling
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention resides in a method for installing gutter mesh to a gutter of a roof, the gutter having an outer edge. The method comprises locating one or more clips on an outer edge of the gutter, wherein the one or more clips including a projection and a landing area for receiving part of the gutter mesh. After placing the gutter mesh such that parts of the gutter mesh overlie the landing areas of the one or more clips and an inner part of the gutter mesh overlies part of the roof, at least one retainer may be placed over one or more of the one or more clips, securing the gutter mesh to the gutter. An inner retainer may also be applied to fix an inner part of the gutter mesh to the roof.