Adjustable Pedestal Assembly for Rooftop Slope Compensation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing deck pedestal systems face challenges in achieving level surfaces on uneven or sloped rooftops, lack sufficient friction, and are not easily adjustable, leading to instability and complexity in installation, especially in high-wind conditions.

Innovation Solution

An adjustable pedestal system with a base member and flexible core member featuring a convex dome and concave recess for slope compensation, enhanced friction through a coarse surface, and a wind uplift restraint mechanism, allowing for easy installation and secure attachment on varying surfaces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If traditional smooth-surface pedestals are used, then the installation is simpler, but the friction between components is insufficient leading to movement or slippage

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovestabilityVSAvoidsurface complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The pedestal base incorporates a coarse friction surface specifically at the interface between the base member and core member, while other surfaces remain smooth for ease of installation. This localized texturing provides enhanced grip and frictional engagement exactly where needed without complicating the overall manufacturing process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Adaptability or versatility

If pedestal systems are made rigid and fixed, then the structural strength is improved, but the ability to adjust to varying slopes and uneven surfaces is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadjustabilityVSAvoidstructural strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The pedestal system incorporates a securement assembly with a locking mechanism that transitions the connection between rigid and adjustable states. During installation, the core member can be rotated and positioned to accommodate varying slopes, then locked into place to provide rigid structural support. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to uneven surfaces while maintaining structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If adjustable core members are introduced to accommodate slopes, then the adaptability to varying surfaces is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveslope compensationVSAvoidpedestal structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The pedestal is divided into distinct functional segments: a base member with a coarse friction surface for stability, an adjustable core member with a locking mechanism for slope compensation, and a top member for supporting surface materials. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall design while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Stability of the object's composition

If friction surfaces are enhanced to prevent slippage, then the stability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrictional engagementVSAvoidsurface processing
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The base member incorporates a coarse friction surface with a porous or textured structure that increases surface area and frictional engagement. This can be achieved through molding techniques or surface treatments that create a consistent pattern of raised elements, providing enhanced grip without requiring complex multi-step manufacturing processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #31Porous materials

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 ensures level surfaces on uneven slopes, provides enhanced stability and resistance to wind uplift, and simplifies installation by integrating slope adjustment and wind restraint features, maintaining structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.

Implementation Method 1

A flexible, adjustable core member having a top end and a bottom surface having a concave recess may be adapted to friction fit with the top surface of the convex dome of the base member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS20260078862A1Adjustable pedestal system for level surfaces
Publication Date: 2026.03.19 UNILOCK CHICAGO INC
  • US20260078862A1 patent drawing
  • US20260078862A1 patent drawing
  • US20260078862A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An adjustable pedestal system for level surfaces designed for accommodating variations in slope during installation. The adjustable pedestal system for level surfaces includes a base member having a bottom surface and top surface with a convex dome member formed thereon. A flexible, adjustable core member having a top end and a bottom surface having a concave recess may be adapted to friction fit with the top surface of the convex dome of the base member. A securement assembly may be adapted to secure the base member to the flexible, adjustable core member in a position. A top member having a top surface may be adapted to receive and maintain level surfaces, and a bottom surface may be adapted to securely engage the flexible, adjustable core member, whereby the bottom surface of the base member engages a non-leveled surface, and the bottom surface of the flexible, adjustable core member may articulate the flexible, adjustable core member relative to the top surface of the convex dome of the base member. This may accommodate the non-leveled surface and maintaining level surfaces on the top member. The versatility of the system facilitates easy installation, slope adjustment, and stability in varied roofing applications.