Load distributing deck insert
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current solutions for elevating or supporting deck accessories are inadequate, as they may destabilize the deck surface, be incompatible with various object sizes, and allow for the accumulation of debris and grime, leading to staining and deterioration of deck surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A load distributing deck insert with a saddle and load receiving section that secures to joists between deck boards, elevating objects above the deck surface, preventing contact with the deck boards and allowing for air circulation to prevent staining and deterioration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If objects are placed directly on the deck surface, then the deck surface is easily accessible and stable, but debris and grime accumulate leading to staining and deterioration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a deck insert as an intermediary component between the deck surface and objects. This insert includes a base that contacts the deck surface and a top surface that supports objects, creating a protective barrier that prevents direct contact between objects/debris and the deck boards, thereby eliminating staining and deterioration while maintaining ease of object placement.
Solution Approach 2:
The deck insert is segmented into distinct functional parts: a base portion that interfaces with the deck surface, a body portion that provides structural support, and a top surface that supports objects. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function while working together to solve the contradiction between protection and convenience.
2Stability of the object's composition
If current support solutions are used, then objects can be elevated above the deck surface, but they destabilize the deck surface and allow debris accumulation
Solution Approach 1:
The deck insert serves as an intermediary structure that elevates objects above the deck surface while maintaining stability. The base is designed to contact and distribute load across the deck surface, the body provides structural support, and the configuration prevents debris accumulation by creating a controlled interface between objects and the deck, thus achieving both stability and harm prevention.
3Device complexity
If a concentrated load is applied to a single specific point on the deck, then the support structure is simpler, but the deck is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into a base with multiple contact points, a body, and a top surface. This segmentation distributes the concentrated load from objects across multiple contact points on the deck surface through the base, reducing stress concentration and preserving deck integrity while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The deck insert transitions the load distribution from a vertical concentrated load to a distributed load across a larger area by extending the base horizontally. This dimensional change from point contact to area contact reduces the pressure on any single point of the deck, maintaining both simplicity and reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A load distributing deck insert for supporting an object above the surface of a deck. The load distributing deck insert may include a body, a saddle, and a load receiving section. The load distributing deck insert may avoid contacting an upper surface of the adjacent deck boards.