Integrated Clip Coupling System for Tile Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for coupling exterior tiles to buildings are costly for smaller tiles, risk damaging the tiles during installation, and do not facilitate easy replacement of individual tiles.
Innovation Solution
A coupling system featuring support tracks with integrally formed clips and a gasket that allows for easy installation and replacement of tiles, reducing the risk of damage and enhancing cost-effectiveness, especially for smaller tiles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If individual clips are used for each tile, then the tile coupling is secure, but the manufacturing cost becomes prohibitive for smaller tiles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple individual clips into a single integrated clip assembly that can secure multiple tiles simultaneously. This merging approach maintains the secure coupling function while dramatically reducing the total number of clips required, thereby lowering manufacturing costs especially for smaller tiles.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated clip assembly serves multiple functions: it secures multiple tiles, provides structural support, and enables individual tile replacement. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components for each tile, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost.
2Reliability
If a clip engages a groove formed in the rear surface of the tile, then the tile is secured to the support track, but the tile may become damaged during installation and such damage may not be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary element (the integrated clip assembly with multiple engagement points) that distributes the securing force across multiple locations on the tile's front surface. This intermediary approach secures the tile without concentrating force on a single groove, reducing the risk of damage while maintaining secure attachment.
3Reliability
If current coupling systems are used, then tiles are mounted to the building, but replacement of individual tiles is labor intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated clip assembly is designed as a segmented system where individual tiles can be independently accessed and replaced. The modular nature of the clip assembly allows one tile to be removed or replaced without affecting the mounting of adjacent tiles, significantly easeing the repair process.
4Shape
If smaller sized tiles are used, then the building facade appearance is improved, but the economics of using individual clips for each tile becomes cost prohibitive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individual clip functions into a single integrated clip assembly that can secure multiple smaller tiles simultaneously. This approach maintains the aesthetic advantage of smaller tiles while eliminating the prohibitive manufacturing costs associated with using individual clips for each small tile.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling system for mounting a tile to an outer surface of a building is disclosed. In one embodiment, the coupling system includes support tracks arranged and configured to couple the tile to the building. The support tracks may include integrally formed clips for coupling with the tiles. The clips may be arranged and configured to couple to a top portion of a lower tile and a bottom portion of an upper tile. Additionally, and/or alternatively, the coupling system may include a gasket coupled to the support tracks. The gasket may include first and second arms. The support tracks may include integrally formed, first and second inwardly extending legs for receiving the first and second arms, respectively, of the gasket. In use, the coupling system facilitates faster and easier manufacturability and assembly as compared to other known systems thus providing a more cost-effective solution, particularly when used with smaller tiles.