Roof Membrane Fastener Setting With Magnetic Washer Holding

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing setting devices for load distribution washers and fasteners on flat roofs are mechanically complex, requiring precise alignment and timely release, which complicates the fastening process on large roof areas.

Innovation Solution

A magnetic holder system is used to securely hold load distribution washers in place during the setting process, eliminating the need for mechanical retaining means and simplifying the alignment and release process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If mechanical retaining devices (pawls, spring-loaded retainers) are used to hold load distribution washers in the mounting position, then the washers can be securely held and positioned, but the device complexity increases and the release mechanism becomes more complex and prone to jamming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveholding and release reliabilityVSAvoidmechanical retaining system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical retaining system (pawls, spring-loaded retainers, control rods) with a magnetic holding system. The magnetic holder uses magnetic attraction forces to retain the load distribution washer in the mounting position, eliminating the need for complex mechanical interlocking components. The release is achieved by overcoming the magnetic force through the setting movement, simplifying the release mechanism without requiring additional control elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the physical state or property used for holding from mechanical interlocking to magnetic attraction. By utilizing magnetic field strength as the holding parameter, the system achieves reliable retention through adjustable magnetic force rather than fixed mechanical geometry, allowing for more flexible and reliable holding and release characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If mechanical retaining devices are used to ensure precise positioning of load distribution washers, then alignment precision is improved, but the mechanical interference increases the risk of jamming during the setting process

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewasher positioning precisionVSAvoidjamming risk during setting
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic holding system eliminates mechanical contact between the retaining mechanism and the load distribution washer during positioning. The magnetic field provides precise centering and holding without physical interference that could cause jamming. During the setting process, the magnetic force simply needs to be overcome by the movement, allowing smooth passage without mechanical obstructions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Loss of time

If complex mechanical release mechanisms are implemented to release washers in good time during the setting process, then the timing of release is improved, but the device complexity and potential for operational errors increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverelease timing precisionVSAvoidcontrol mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic holding system is passive and automatically releases the load distribution washer when the setting movement generates sufficient force to overcome the magnetic attraction. No active control mechanism is required to timing the release - the system self-regulates based on the physical interaction between the setting force and magnetic holding force, ensuring timely release without complex control logic.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The magnetic holder system ensures precise alignment and secure fastening of load distribution washers without mechanical interference, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing jamming risks.

Implementation Method 1

The mounting bracket (300) is designed to position a load distribution washer (200) in a mounting position on a mounting surface so that the working axis (900) is aligned with the through-opening (220) of the load distribution washer (200). The magnet system is designed so that the load distribution washer (200) is held securely in the mounting position but is released in good time during the setting process.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 2

A suitable solution should not be too complex mechanically, should be reliable both in terms of holding and release, and should be suitable for use under construction site conditions. This object is solved by a magnetic holder that holds the load distribution washers in the mounting position.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS20260054359A1Setting device
Publication Date: 2026.02.26 SFS GROUP INTERNATIONAL AG
  • US20260054359A1 patent drawing
  • US20260054359A1 patent drawing
  • US20260054359A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A setting device (100) for mounting roof membranes (470) and insulation layers (450) on a substructure (460) uses an arrangement having a fastener (210) and a ferromagnetic load distribution washer (200) for fastening. The setting device includes a movable frame (130) having a first feed device (110) for load distribution washers and a second feed device (120) for fasteners. The setting process starts with manual actuation of a vertically arranged pressure rod (145) that can be telescoped against a spring. A drive unit (150) attached thereto with a motor-driven drive mandrel (155) drives a fastener from a mounting guide (320) through a load distribution washer held in a mounting guide in the base assembly (310) of the setting device. A magnet system, designed so that the load distribution washer to be set is fixable in a suspended manner in the mounting bracket (300) without an additional mechanical retainer, is used.