Linear-Edge Shimming Plate for Substrate Parallelism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shimming devices do not effectively provide a method to ensure a substrate, such as drywall or subflooring, is mounted parallel to a plane defined by multiple studs, particularly in uneven stud installations.
Innovation Solution
A shimming device comprising a linear-edged plate that can be mounted to studs with a slide unit allowing alignment and secure attachment to define a plane, ensuring the substrate is parallel to the plane, using a strap with slits and fasteners for secure positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional shimming methods are used, then installation is simple, but alignment precision and substrate parallelism cannot be ensured on uneven studs
Solution Approach 1:
The shimming device is attached to the substrate before final mounting, allowing the substrate's position and orientation to be established in advance relative to the studs. This preliminary positioning ensures that when the substrate is mounted, it will be parallel to the defined plane even on uneven studs.
Solution Approach 2:
The shimming device acts as an intermediary element between the substrate and the studs. It provides a reference plane that mediates the connection, allowing the substrate to be positioned correctly while accommodating variations in stud alignment and unevenness.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple shims of different thicknesses are used to accommodate uneven studs, then adaptability improves, but installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The shimming device incorporates an adjustable thickness parameter, allowing a single device type to accommodate various stud unevenness levels. The thickness can be modified to match the specific gap requirements at each stud location, eliminating the need for multiple fixed-thickness shim varieties.
Solution Approach 2:
The shimming device is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides alignment reference, compensates for stud unevenness, and establishes the final substrate position. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple specialized components and simplifies the installation process.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise alignment tools and methods are employed, then substrate parallelism improves, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The shimming device is designed to self-align and self-position on the studs. The installer simply attaches the device to the substrate and mounts it to the studs; the device's geometry and reference edges automatically establish the correct parallelism without requiring additional alignment tools or complex adjustment procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A shimming device for attaching a substrate to a stud wall includes a plate, which has a first edge that is linear. The plate can be mounted to a respective opposed side of one of a plurality of studs to which the substrate is to be mounted. The plate is one of a plurality of plates that can be positioned on and mounted to the plurality of studs so that each plate is positioned at a respective support point for the substrate. Each plate is positioned with the first edge of the plate proud of an edge face of the stud and so that the first edges of the plurality of plates define a plane. The substrate, upon mounting to the plurality of studs, is parallel to the plane.