Masonry Lintel Support Kit with Claw Anchoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for lintel repair and reinforcement, such as the Trotter reinforcement system and helical embedment bars, face challenges like reducing opening sizes and affecting aesthetics, whereas current solutions do not adequately address the need for efficient and aesthetically pleasing support of failing lintels without extensive structural reconstruction.
Innovation Solution
A masonry support kit comprising a lintel support with a body featuring claws and a bracket, made of steel, which allows for even weight distribution and uplift of failing lintels, combined with a method involving mortar line excavation, claw positioning, and jack lift application to facilitate repair, reinforcement, or replacement without significant structural disruption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If reinforcement beams are placed within the existing lintel opening to support a failing lintel, then the lintel is reinforced without complete reconstruction, but the usable opening size is significantly reduced and aesthetics are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The invention moves the support system from a two-dimensional planar reinforcement within the lintel opening to a three-dimensional configuration where the support beam extends vertically above the lintel. The adjustable support arm reaches down to contact the lintel from above, utilizing the vertical dimension to provide support without occupying space within the opening.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable support arm acts as an intermediary between the support beam and the lintel. It transfers the load from the lintel to the support beam while allowing for adjustment to accommodate varying lintel positions and conditions, providing flexible mediation without requiring direct rigid connection within the opening.
2Reliability
If reinforcement beams are placed within the existing lintel opening to support a failing lintel, then the lintel is reinforced without complete reconstruction, but aesthetic appearance is compromised by additional supports
Solution Approach 1:
By relocating the support structure to the vertical dimension above the lintel, the invention keeps the opening area visually clear and aesthetically pleasing. The support beam and adjustable arm can be positioned to minimize visual impact while still providing necessary structural support.
Solution Approach 2:
The support function is extracted from the opening space and relocated to the area above the lintel. This separation allows the opening to maintain its original aesthetic appearance while the support system operates independently in the vertical space above.
3Reliability
If traditional lintel repair methods are used involving removal and replacement of masonry, then the lintel can be replaced, but the process is extremely labor intensive and time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The support beam and adjustable arm are positioned and configured in advance to provide immediate support to the failing lintel. This preliminary support action stabilizes the structure before any repair or replacement work begins, enabling faster and safer repair operations without requiring complete masonry demolition.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the traditional mechanical approach of complete masonry removal and reconstruction with a support-based system that uses the existing structure. The adjustable support arm provides mechanical support without requiring the extensive mechanical demolition and reconstruction of the surrounding masonry.
4Reliability
If the existing support systems are used to reinforce lintels, then reinforcement is provided, but the system complexity increases with multiple components within the opening
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable support arm serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, allows for height adjustment to accommodate different lintel positions, and can be positioned at various angles. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple separate components within the opening, simplifying the overall system while maintaining reinforcement effectiveness.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention includes a lintel support to aid in lintel repair and/or reinforcement. The lintel support has a body with a top, a bottom, and a height extending therebetween; at least one claw at the top; and a bracket at the bottom. In use, points are dug out of a mortar line above the lintel and the claws of the lintel support are positioned into those points. With the claws so positioned, the bracket will be below the failing lintel. A support beam is placed under the bracket and a jack lift provides uplift at the mortar line where the claws are positioned.