Nested Track System for Flush Sheathing and Seismic Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current two-piece track systems for building construction often result in an uneven outer surface due to differing track widths, leading to flared sheathing and difficulty in maintaining independent movement of inner tracks, which compromises stability, especially in seismic regions, and require screws for assembly that hinder later movement.
Innovation Solution
A two-piece track system with an outer track width equal to or less than the inner track width, featuring angled flanges and engaging surfaces to ensure nesting and prevent separation, along with a strap for securement during installation, allowing for flush sheathing attachment and independent lateral movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If the outer track width is made larger than the inner track width, then the outer track can accommodate the inner track, but the outer surface becomes uneven requiring flared sheathing
Solution Approach 1:
The inner track is nested within the outer track with the inner track's flanges positioned inside the outer track's flanges. The engaging surfaces on both tracks create a nested configuration where the tracks interlock, allowing the outer surface to remain substantially flat while accommodating both track widths without requiring flared sheathing.
2Stability of the object's composition
If screws are used to hold the tracks in place, then the tracks are secure during construction, but the inner track cannot move independently afterward
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static connected state during construction to a dynamic independent movement state after construction. The engaging surfaces provide temporary connection during construction, then allow independent lateral movement of the inner track relative to the outer track, enabling the system to adapt to different construction phases and environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The track system is divided into two independent movable components (inner track and outer track) that can move independently relative to each other. The engaging surfaces provide selective connection, allowing the components to function as a unified stable structure during construction, then separate for independent environmental movement in completed installation.
3Reliability
If the inner track is allowed to move freely laterally, then seismic stability is improved, but the track may separate during construction
Solution Approach 1:
The engaging surfaces are designed to prevent premature separation of the inner and outer tracks during construction and installation. These surfaces create friction and mechanical interlocking that counteract forces attempting to separate the tracks, allowing independent lateral movement for seismic stability while preventing unwanted separation during the construction phase.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed toward a track assembly comprising two nested tracks, an inner track and outer track. The assembly is designed so that the outside width of the outer track is equal to or less than the outside width of the inner track to present a substantially flush external surface for attachment of exterior sheathing elements when the assembly is used in an external wall. The system may further comprise a strap or series of engaging surfaces on the inner and outer tracks that generally restrain the inner track relative to the outer track.