Interlocking Deck Joist System for Water Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current deck systems fail to provide a structural, load-bearing solution that protects the area beneath a deck from elements dripping from above, as they are typically retrofitted and not designed to be structural, exposing joists to moisture and requiring professional installation.
Innovation Solution
A structural outdoor deck joist system with interlocking components that capture and channel water, serving as a load-bearing component and providing a dry area beneath the deck, while allowing for customization and efficient installation without compromising water resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If retrofitted deck protection systems are installed on existing joists, then the area beneath the deck is protected from water, but the system adds complexity and does not provide structural benefit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the deck protection function with the structural joist function into a single integrated system. The foam core blocks serve both as structural support members replacing traditional joists and as water protection elements that capture and redirect water away from the area beneath the deck, eliminating the need for separate retrofitted protection systems
Solution Approach 2:
The deck support system performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural load-bearing support, captures water from the deck surface, redirects water away from the area beneath the deck, and eliminates the need for separate protection systems. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by making the structural system itself the protection system
2Strength
If traditional joist systems are used, then structural support is provided, but the area beneath the deck is exposed to moisture and elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the structural support function with the water protection function by integrating foam core blocks that serve as both load-bearing joists and water capture/redirect elements, so the same structural components that support the deck also protect the area beneath from moisture
Solution Approach 2:
The foam core blocks act as intermediary elements between the deck surface and the area beneath, capturing water that would otherwise fall through and redirecting it laterally away from the space below, while simultaneously serving as the structural support members
3Object-affected harmful factors
If current deck protection systems are installed, then water capture is achieved, but professional installation is required and structural benefit is limited
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the protection function with the structural joist function into a single system, the patent eliminates the need for separate retrofitted protection systems that require professional installation, as the structural system itself provides the water capture and redirection functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The deck support system is self-sufficient, providing both structural support and water protection without requiring additional separate systems or specialized installation expertise, as the same components perform both functions inherently
Data Source
AI summary
A structural support system with a means for capturing and channeling elements originating from an exterior surface is disclosed. More specifically, the support system not only creates a dry area under a deck but is also a load bearing component of the deck. The support system is multifunctional in that it alleviates the need for traditional joist-dependent construction methods while simultaneously providing an efficient and aesthetically pleasing structure for maintaining a useful, dry area under the deck. Advantageously, embodiments are scalable in that the system comprises a repeatable series of interlocking components operable to be customized to any foreseeable deck footprint or load bearing application.