Offset Support Device for Thermal Bridge Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mounting systems for heavy elements like doors and windows in building construction face challenges in providing sufficient stability while maintaining thermal insulation, especially when space is limited and technical devices like fire bars or thermal insulation systems cannot be installed on the outside.
Innovation Solution
A carrying system with a fastening device made of low thermal conductivity material, designed to be offset from the building's fastening plane, which can be attached to the structure using various methods such as gluing or screwing, and features a rigid, elongated shape with foam elements for enhanced insulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If metal brackets are used to transfer loads, then load transfer capability is improved, but thermal insulation performance deteriorates due to thermal bridge formation
Solution Approach 1:
The support device combines a rigid core made of thermally insulating material (such as expanded polystyrene or polyurethane foam) with a metallic fastening structure. This composite construction allows the device to transfer mechanical loads effectively through the metallic components while the insulating core material prevents thermal bridge formation, thus resolving the contradiction between load transfer capability and thermal insulation performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The support device applies local quality by using different materials for different functions: metallic fastening elements are localized at specific points where load transfer is needed, while the main body of the support device is made of thermally insulating material. This localized application of material properties allows the structure to achieve both mechanical strength for load transfer and thermal insulation to prevent heat loss.
2Stability of the object's composition
If mounting systems are attached to the outside of the building structure, then load transfer stability is improved, but the reveal opening width increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support device utilizes the insulation layer space by extending in the depth dimension (perpendicular to the facade surface) rather than increasing the horizontal reveal opening width. The device is designed to be received within the thermal insulation layer, allowing stable mounting while maintaining a compact facade profile without protruding elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The support device is nested within the thermal insulation layer of the building facade. The fastening device is received in the insulation layer, with the building element mounted on the support device, creating a nested arrangement that maximizes space utilization within the existing facade structure without increasing external dimensions.
3Reliability
If external technical installations (fire barriers, thermal break cages) are present, then building safety and insulation are improved, but external mounting becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The support device is designed with multi-functionality to work with various building facade configurations. It can be installed in locations with external technical installations by adapting its mounting approach - the device can be received in the insulation layer alongside fire barriers or thermal break cages, or mounted on the external face when space permits, thus providing universal applicability across different building safety and insulation configurations.
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 system achieves stable load transfer and effective thermal insulation by diverting high weights from doors into the building structure, preventing thermal bridges and allowing seamless integration with insulation and sealing systems.
Implementation Method 1
this support device is made of a material which has low thermal conductivity
Data Source
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Figure 5~6
AI summary
Support system for mounting a building element, in particular a door or a window, on a building structure (4), particularly in an installation position at least partially outside the building structure (4), with a support device (12) which can be attached to the building structure, wherein this support device (12) is offset from the building structure in a direction perpendicular to a fastening plane of the building structure (4), and wherein this support device (12) is made of a material which has low thermal conductivity.