Hidden Clip Magazine System for Decking Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for securing decking materials using hidden clips are labor-intensive and require two hands, making the process slow and often necessitating two people to handle the boards, especially when they are on an incline or require force for positioning.
Innovation Solution
A universal magazine system that mounts to a hand-operated power tool, automatically feeding and positioning hidden clips under the nail/screw driving mechanism, allowing for efficient fastening of decking planks with the ability to use a standard industrial screw gun or nail gun, and featuring a clip strip with frangible sections and angled compression tabs for improved handling and leveling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If hidden clips are installed using manual hand positioning and hand feeding, then installation flexibility is maintained, but installation speed decreases and labor intensity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hidden clips are segmented into a continuous strip format with multiple clips connected by frangible links, allowing automated sequential feeding one clip at a time through the magazine mechanism, thereby increasing installation speed while maintaining manageable complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The magazine system automatically feeds and positions each hidden clip without requiring manual hand feeding by the installer, enabling the system to serve itself through automated mechanical positioning and reducing labor intensity
2Productivity
If two hands are required for hand feeding hidden clips, then positioning precision is maintained, but operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The magazine system performs the positioning and feeding function that previously required two hands, allowing the installer to operate with one hand while the system automatically handles clip positioning and delivery to the fastening location
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical hand-feeding process is replaced with an automated magazine feed mechanism that uses spring-loaded or cam-based mechanical systems to deliver clips automatically, eliminating the need for dual-hand operation
3Productivity
If multiple workers are deployed to handle decking boards on inclines, then safety and positioning stability are improved, but labor costs and project time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The automated magazine feed system allows a single installer to perform positioning and fastening operations independently without requiring assistance from additional workers, even when handling decking boards on inclines
Solution Approach 2:
The hidden clips are pre-positioned in the magazine system in advance, allowing the installer to quickly access and install clips without requiring additional workers to prepare or assist with clip positioning during the installation process
Data Source
AI summary
One or more hidden clips can be efficiently fastened and mounted to decking planks, e.g., with a tool or manually. A plurality of hidden clips can be included with a strip of clips and separated by a frangible section or tab located between adjacent clips. Each hidden clip can include a leading edge and a trailing edge opposite the leading edge. The leading edge can be beveled or tapered across an entirety thereof. At least one connecting tab spans between a respective leading edge and trailing edge of adjacent decking clips in the clip strip. Each of the decking clips can include an aperture configured to receive a fastener. A fastener can be disposed in the aperture in each clip such that each fastener extends partially above a top surface of the decking clip.