Stackable Expansion Joint Frame Assembly Height Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for attaching expansion joints to building surfaces, such as floors and roofs, fail to provide a flexible and adjustable solution for bridging expansion gaps while allowing for the application of top coatings like concrete or asphalt, lacking the ability to vary height and securely attach expansion joints.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable height expansion joint assembly with elongated base supports and extension members, featuring specific attachment configurations, allows for secure attachment to building surfaces and variable height adjustment, enabling the bridging of expansion gaps and forming the edge for top coatings by using a combination of flanges, interfaces, and extension members to define the thickness of the top coat.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing systems are used to attach expansion joints to building surfaces, then the expansion joint can be attached, but the system lacks flexibility and adjustability for varying heights and top coating applications
Solution Approach 1:
The expansion joint assembly is divided into separate modular components including base supports with flanges, elongated extension members, and expansion joint sections. Each component can be independently manufactured and assembled in different configurations to achieve varying heights and accommodate different building surface requirements, providing flexibility without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates adjustable height capability through the combination of base supports and extension members that can be configured in multiple positions. This dynamic adjustability allows the assembly to adapt to varying building surface conditions and top coating thickness requirements while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed height system is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate varying top coating thickness requirements or building movements
Solution Approach 1:
The height adjustment capability is achieved by segmenting the vertical support structure into base supports and separate extension members. These segments can be assembled in different combinations to achieve the required height, allowing adaptability while keeping individual components simple and the overall assembly process straightforward.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension members are designed to work in conjunction with base supports in a nested configuration, where extension members can be positioned at different heights relative to the base supports. This nesting arrangement enables height adjustment without requiring complex mechanisms, as the components fit together in a straightforward hierarchical structure.
3Reliability
If existing attachment systems are used, then installation is straightforward, but they cannot securely attach expansion joints while providing a form for top coat application
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple functions into a unified assembly: the base supports with flanges provide secure attachment to building surfaces, the extension members establish the required height and form, and the expansion joint sections bridge the gap. This integration of attachment, formwork, and expansion joint functions into a single coordinated system ensures reliability while avoiding the need for multiple separate complex systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The base supports with flanges serve multiple functions: they attach the assembly to the building surface, provide structural support, and establish the baseline for height measurement. The extension members similarly serve both as structural supports and as formwork definers for the top coating. This multi-functionality enhances attachment security and form provision without requiring additional specialized components.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a non-modular system is used, then manufacturing is simpler, but customization for different building surfaces and gap sizes becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The modular segmentation of the system into standardized base supports, extension members, and expansion joint sections enables easy customization. Each module can be manufactured using standard processes, and then assembled in different configurations to accommodate various building surface conditions and gap sizes, achieving customization without increasing manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular components are designed with universal interfaces and standardized dimensions that allow them to be used in multiple applications. The base supports with flanges can attach to different building surfaces, the extension members can provide various height increments, and the expansion joint sections can accommodate different gap widths. This universality enables customization through simple assembly variation rather than custom manufacturing.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for attaching a flexible expansion joint to the surface of a building such as the floor of a building. The system for attaching the joint is configured to secure the joint and provide, in effect, a form up to which a top coat of material such as concrete or asphalt can applied over an existing floor structure. The system provides a universal base unit upon which common extension units can be attached and stacked to vary the height of the form for the surface coat.