Modular Brick Paver Support Structure for Balcony Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for installing brick pavers are complex and require skilled craftsmen, and the resulting structures are often heavy, making them unsuitable for low-weight limit applications such as many balcony designs, where there is a need for a simpler and lighter weight installation method.
Innovation Solution
A brick paver support structure comprising a network of internal and external support walls arranged in a regular two-dimensional pattern with a locking mechanism, allowing for proper drainage and support of brick pavers, and featuring lateral and medial supports to securely position shelves, which can be easily assembled and installed on various substrates, including balconies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional brick paver installation methods are used (compacting sub-soil, adding gravel layer, spreading sand screening), then the structure provides adequate support and drainage, but the installation process becomes complex and requires skilled craftsmen
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into modular plastic components (shelves with integrated support walls and locking mechanisms) that can be easily assembled and disassembled. Each module contains pre-formed drainage channels and locking features, eliminating the need for complex multi-step installation processes while maintaining structural integrity and drainage functionality.
2Reliability
If traditional brick paver installation methods are used (gravel layer, sand screening, multiple compacting steps), then the structure provides adequate support and drainage, but the overall weight becomes very heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The material composition is changed from heavy natural materials (gravel, sand, compacted soil) to lightweight engineered plastic for the support structure. The plastic material provides sufficient structural support and integrated drainage while significantly reducing the overall weight, making the system suitable for applications with weight limitations such as balconies.
3Reliability
If traditional brick paver installation methods are used (multiple layers of gravel and sand), then the structure provides adequate drainage, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into single components: the plastic shelves integrate support walls, drainage channels, and locking mechanisms into one piece. This eliminates the need for separate gravel layers, sand screening, and multiple compacting operations, dramatically reducing installation time while maintaining drainage and structural support functions.
4Manufacturing precision
If traditional brick paver installation methods are used (compacting and leveling multiple layers), then the structure achieves a level surface, but the process requires skilled craftsmanship
Solution Approach 1:
The plastic support structure is designed with self-leveling features through its molded geometry and integrated locking mechanisms. The components automatically align and level themselves during assembly without requiring skilled craftsmen to manually compact and level multiple layers of material. The system is designed to be self-assembling with basic tools.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates generally to structures and methods for constructing a paved structure. Some embodiments relate to improved, simplified and/or lightweight means for the construction of such structures. Some embodiments relate to means for constructing a paved area having a shelf for vertically supporting bricks. Furthermore, in some embodiments the shelf can be in a raised relation to a substrate. Some embodiments may also include structures that facilitate drainage of liquids from a surface of the paved structure.