Pivoting Insert Mounting Device for Non-Invasive Rib Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Installing structures on standing seam metal panel building surfaces without puncturing them is challenging due to the high cost and potential for leakage and corrosion, as well as the need for non-invasive methods to avoid damaging the expensive surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A mounting device comprising a mounting body with a base, legs, and an insert, which includes clamping fasteners to attach to a rib of the panel without puncturing it, allowing for secure attachment of structures like photovoltaic modules or snow retention systems without compromising the integrity of the panel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If clamping fasteners are used to attach structures to standing seam metal panels, then the panel integrity is maintained and leakage is prevented, but the device complexity increases due to the multi-component mounting system
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device is divided into separate components: a mounting body with clamping fasteners and a separate insert that interfaces with the rib. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system reliability without requiring a single complex puncturing device
Solution Approach 2:
The insert acts as an intermediary element between the mounting body and the rib structure. It provides a secure attachment point on the rib surface without requiring penetration of the metal panel, thereby maintaining panel integrity while enabling stable structure attachment
2Ease of operation
If a multi-piece mounting device with pivoting insert is used, then the ease of operation is improved by allowing adjustment to different rib configurations, but the device complexity increases due to multiple moving parts
Solution Approach 1:
The insert is designed with pivoting capability, transforming it from a static component to a dynamic one that can adjust its position and orientation. This dynamic feature enables the mounting device to adapt to various rib configurations and angles, improving ease of operation across different installation scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The pivoting insert allows for changes in geometric parameters such as angle and position during installation. This parameter adjustability enables the mounting device to accommodate different rib profiles and orientations without requiring multiple specialized devices, thereby improving operational versatility
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting device (100) for installation on a hollow rib of a panel is disclosed. The mounting device (100) includes a mounting body (102), an insert (160), and at least one clamping fastener (180). The mounting body (102) includes an upper section or base (104), along with a first leg (112) and a second leg (122) that each extend downwardly from the base (104) in at least generally diverging relation to one another. The first leg (112) includes a first projection (116) positionable in a recess on one sidewall of a rib, while the insert (160) includes a second projection (164) positionable in a recess on the opposite sidewall of this same rib. The clamping fastener(s) (180) extends through the second leg (122) of the mounting body (102) and forces the insert (160) in the direction of the first leg (112) of the mounting body (102).