Standing Seam Clamping Strap with Pin-Locked Roof Fixing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clamping straps for heavy roof structures on metal roofs face issues with inconsistent clamping force due to temperature variations, leading to insufficient clamping, especially when used in snow guard systems.
Innovation Solution
A clamping strap with a U-shaped extruded profile and a pin inserted into a second opening between the edge of the head, which deforms the standing seam to secure the strap against displacement, combined with a tensioning element like a screw or rivet to ensure high rigidity and clamping force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a clamping strap with U-shaped extruded profile is used to clamp metal roof standing seams, then the clamping force and rigidity are improved, but the strap becomes susceptible to displacement under temperature variations and heavy loads
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping strap is divided into functional segments: clamping jaws for gripping the standing seam, a body portion for structural support, and openings for receiving tensioning elements. This segmentation allows each part to optimize its function while maintaining overall stability under temperature variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioning element is nested within the clamping strap structure, passing through openings in the body portion and clamping jaws. This nesting allows the tensioning element to be integrated into the extruded profile while maintaining adjustability and securing mechanisms.
2Ease of manufacture
If the clamping strap is designed as a one-piece extruded profile, then manufacturing simplicity and structural rigidity are improved, but adaptability to different mounting requirements is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping strap design incorporates multiple openings that can accommodate various tensioning elements (screws, rivets, bolts) and different mounting configurations. The same basic extruded profile structure serves multiple functions: structural support, clamping, and adaptability to different installation requirements through selective use of openings.
Solution Approach 2:
The extruded profile includes variable parameters such as opening positions, sizes, and orientations that can be adjusted during manufacturing to create different variants suitable for various mounting requirements, while maintaining the core one-piece construction advantage.
3Force
If the clamping jaws are pressed against the standing seam with high force, then the clamping security is improved, but the risk of displacement in longitudinal direction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tensioning element is pre-installed through the openings in the clamping strap before final tightening. This preliminary action allows the clamping jaws to be positioned and secured to the standing seam, preventing longitudinal displacement before the full clamping force is applied.
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioning element acts as an intermediary between the clamping jaws and the standing seam, transmitting and distributing the clamping force while preventing direct longitudinal displacement of the jaws. The intermediary mechanism ensures force distribution that reduces displacement risk.
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 design provides a secure and stable mounting of roof structures by preventing displacement in both longitudinal and transverse directions, ensuring reliable support even under varying temperatures and heavy loads.
Implementation Method 1
the pin is displaced by the tensioning device in the direction of the standing seam and penetrates or at least deforms it
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The plate (10) has clamp jaws (28, 30) pressed on both sides against a standing seam (18) of a metal roof (20) using a clamping element (16). A U-shaped extruded section (22) includes brackets (24, 26) that exhibit two openings (40), which are engaged by the clamping element. The clamping element exhibits a head (44) that overlaps the openings on edge side. Another set of openings (48) is provided between the former openings and the edge of the head. A pin is inserted into the latter set of openings, where length of the pin is larger than the thickness of the bracket (24).