Telescoping Stabilizing Bar for Deck Pedestal Rigidity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing deck systems with height adjustable pedestals lack effective stabilizing systems to minimize movement of ballast block deck systems, which are necessary for maintaining stability and aesthetic appeal on sloped rooftop surfaces.

Innovation Solution

A stabilizing system featuring a telescoping stabilizing bar secured between pedestals, with connection locations on the periphery, that extends between at least two pedestals to restrain movement and provide rigidity, using telescoping halves connected by a fastener and securing members for adjustable length and securement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If height adjustable pedestals are used in deck systems, then adaptability and ease of installation are improved, but stability and resistance to movement deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveheight adjustabilityVSAvoidpedestal stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The stabilizing bar is divided into two telescoping halves that can be independently positioned and secured to adjacent pedestals. This segmentation allows the bar to adapt to different pedestal positions and heights while maintaining structural stability, resolving the contradiction between adjustability and stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The stabilizing bar uses a telescoping mechanism where one half is inserted within the other, allowing for length adjustment while maintaining a compact structure. This nesting principle enables the bar to accommodate varying distances between pedestals without compromising its stabilizing function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Stability of the object's composition

If stabilizing bars are added to deck systems, then stability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeck system stabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The stabilizing bar incorporates a telescoping mechanism that allows dynamic adjustment of length, enabling the system to adapt to different installation conditions without requiring multiple fixed-length bars. This dynamic feature reduces overall system complexity while maintaining stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The stabilizing bar includes self-securing features with fasteners that can be easily engaged and disengaged, allowing for simple installation and adjustment without requiring complex tools or procedures. This self-service capability minimizes installation complexity while ensuring stable connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8667747B2Stabilizing system for deck pedestals
Publication Date: 2014.03.11 HANOVER PREST PAVING CO
  • US8667747B2 patent drawing
  • US8667747B2 patent drawing
  • US8667747B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A stabilizing system for a deck system has a plurality of pedestals, a plurality of connection locations on a periphery of the pedestals and a stabilizing bar secured between the pedestals. The stabilizing bar includes a first half, a second half, a fastener, and a first securing member. The first half and the second half connect to each other and are extendable between at least two of the pedestals. The second half is sized to receive the first half therein in a telescoping manner. The fastener connects the first half with the second half, while the first securing opening extends from a bottom surface and is located near a respective end face opposite a juncture between the halves.