Adjustable Pedestal Tile Support with Drainage Apertures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tile and support systems for outdoor deck and roof systems face challenges in providing a stable, drainage-efficient, and maintenance-free surface, particularly in handling water and preventing puddling and wind uplift, while allowing for some movement without damaging the tiles.
Innovation Solution
A tile and support structure system that includes joists, support structures with apertures and flanges for water drainage, and adjustable pedestals with spines and rails for tile positioning, allowing for tile placement without grout and accommodating movement, while securing tiles in multiple dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If tiles are securely fixed to prevent movement, then stability is improved, but ability to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure incorporates adjustable pedestals that can dynamically adapt their height and position to accommodate tile movement due to thermal expansion and contraction, while maintaining secure fixation. The system allows controlled movement in specific directions while preventing harmful displacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure divides the tile fixation system into modular segments with individual adjustable pedestals at multiple points. This segmentation allows each segment to independently accommodate local movement while maintaining overall tile stability through the coordinated action of multiple support points.
2Productivity
If water drainage is enhanced to prevent puddling, then drainage efficiency is improved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure integrates multiple functions into single components: the adjustable pedestals simultaneously provide mechanical support, enable water drainage through their aperture design, and accommodate tile movement. This multi-functionality enhances drainage efficiency without proportionally increasing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure incorporates components with apertures and openings that facilitate water passage. The pedestals and support elements are designed with porous or perforated features that enable efficient drainage while maintaining structural integrity, preventing puddling without requiring complex additional drainage systems.
3Strength
If tiles are tightly secured to resist wind uplift, then resistance to wind uplift is improved, but ability to allow thermal movement is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable pedestal system provides dynamic fixation that can resist wind uplift forces while accommodating thermal movement. The pedestals are designed to maintain strong vertical support and anti-uplift capability through their connection mechanisms, while allowing controlled horizontal and longitudinal movement to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction of the tiles.
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect of a tile and support structure, a support structure may be engaged with a top portion of a pedestal. The support structure may be formed with a generally vertical spine having at least one rail extending outward from a distal end thereof. The spine and rail(s) may be configured to secure one or more tiles, which tiles may be formed with a groove on at least one edge thereof, and wherein one or more rails may be positioned within the groove.