Rotatable Roof Anchor for Precise Watertight Frame Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing roof mounting systems for solar panels and other structures face challenges in maintaining waterproof integrity and precision during installation, particularly when dealing with non-aligned mountings, which can be time-consuming and difficult due to the need for precise tolerances and directional orientation.

Innovation Solution

A non-directional roof anchor system featuring a base structure with a circular protrusion and a top fitting with a guide that allows for rotational and translational adjustments, enabling flexible mounting without regard to the anchor's initial orientation, and incorporating bendable holding flaps for secure attachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional directional roof anchors are used, then precise alignment and orientation are required during installation, but this increases installation time and complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveInstallation easeVSAvoidAlignment precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The roof anchor employs asymmetric design where the base structure is circular and non-directional while the top fitting has a specific orientation. This allows the base to be installed in any orientation on the roof, and the top fitting can subsequently be rotated to achieve the required alignment, eliminating the need for precise initial alignment during base installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The roof anchor incorporates rotational capability through the connection between the base structure and top fitting. The top fitting can rotate relative to the base structure, allowing dynamic adjustment of orientation after installation. This dynamic feature transforms a static, precision-critical installation into a flexible, easily adjustable system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If adjustable mounting systems are implemented, then flexibility in orientation is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveOrientation flexibilityVSAvoidStructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The roof anchor is divided into two distinct segments: a base structure that remains fixed on the roof and a top fitting that can rotate and adjust. This segmentation allows the rotational and adjustable features to be confined to the top fitting portion, keeping the overall system relatively simple while providing the needed flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The base structure is designed with universal characteristics - a circular shape that can be installed in any orientation and works with various roof types. This universal base combined with the adjustable top fitting creates a multi-functional system that adapts to different installation scenarios without requiring multiple specialized components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP2633248B1Roof anchor for fixing frame structures to a roof
Publication Date: 2016.02.24 ICOPAL A S
  • EP2633248B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP2633248B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5
  • EP2633248B1 patent drawingFigure 6a~6b

AI summary

The present invention relates to a roof anchor and system for fixing frame structures to a roof, the roof anchor comprising; a base structure configured to be mounted on a roof, the base structure comprising a base and a substantially circular protrusion with a top part having a substantially planar top surface, the protrusion further having a reduced circumference at its lower end defining a gap encircling the protrusion, the roof anchor further comprising a top fitting comprising a guide.