Mounting device for nail strip panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Installing structures on standing seam metal panel building surfaces is undesirable due to the risk of puncturing the expensive surface, which can lead to leakage and corrosion, especially when multiple punctures are required for mounting equipment like HVAC systems.
Innovation Solution
A one-piece mounting device with a non-parallel slot design that integrates seam fasteners to securely hold the standing seam without penetrating it, featuring a slot defined by non-parallel sidewalls and a base, allowing for secure attachment without damaging the panel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional mounting methods are used to install structures on standing seam metal panels, then mounting equipment can be secured to the building surface, but the panel surface is punctured which increases the risk of leakage and corrosion
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device acts as an intermediary between the standing seam panel and the equipment to be mounted. It engages with the standing seam through a slot that receives the seam, allowing the device to be securely attached to the panel without puncturing it. The equipment is then mounted to the device through fasteners, creating a reliable mounting solution that preserves panel integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting device separates the mounting function from the panel surface by creating a distinct intermediate component. The device includes a body with a slot for receiving the standing seam, fastener holes for securing to the seam, and mounting surfaces for attaching equipment. This segmentation allows the panel to remain intact while providing secure mounting capability.
2Ease of operation
If multiple punctures are made in the metal panel to mount HVAC equipment, then the equipment can be securely installed, but the potential for leakage and corrosion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device serves as a mediator that enables equipment mounting without direct penetration of the panel. The standing seam is received within the slot of the mounting device body, and fasteners secure the device to the seam from the interior side, eliminating the need for punctures through the panel surface and thereby preventing leakage and corrosion pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
The standing seam, which is a protruding feature of the panel, is converted from a potential obstruction into a beneficial mounting substrate. The slot is designed to receive and engage with the standing seam, allowing the seam to provide the mounting surface needed for secure attachment while preserving the panel's weather-tight integrity.
3Ease of manufacture
If the slot sidewalls are made parallel, then the manufacturing is simpler, but the securing mechanism for the standing seam is less effective
Solution Approach 1:
The slot is designed with asymmetric, non-parallel sidewalls where at least one sidewall is angled relative to the panel surface. This asymmetric geometry creates a mechanical interlock with the standing seam, providing superior retention and securing capability compared to parallel sidewalls, while still being manufacturable through standard fabrication processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting device (10) is disclosed having a one-piece body (11). A slot (20) extends into this body (11), and is defined by a slot base (22) and a pair of spaced slot sidewalls (24a, 24b) that each extend from the slot base (22). The slot sidewalls (24a, 24b) are disposed in non-parallel relation to each other.