Tile Coupling System with Segmented Clips and Support Bars
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling systems for mounting exterior tiles to buildings are prone to damage during installation and maintenance, leading to unsafe conditions and labor-intensive replacement processes, with a lack of ease in assembly, removal, and individual tile replacement.
Innovation Solution
A coupling system utilizing clips and support bars that securely attach tiles to a building framework, allowing for easier assembly, minimizing the risk of tile fall, and facilitating individual tile replacement by positioning support bars within tile channels and using clips with anti-rotation features for secure fastening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing coupling systems are used to mount tiles to buildings, then tiles can be attached to the framework, but the tiles become damaged during installation and maintenance leading to unsafe conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is divided into separate components: a support bar that interfaces with the tile and a coupling mechanism that attaches to the framework. This segmentation allows the support bar to provide continuous support along the tile edge while the coupling mechanism handles the connection to the building framework, distributing stresses and preventing concentrated damage points on the tile.
Solution Approach 2:
The support bar acts as an intermediary element between the tile and the coupling mechanism. Instead of directly attaching the tile to the framework, the support bar mediates the connection, providing a robust interface that protects the tile from direct mechanical stresses and potential damage during installation and maintenance operations.
2Ease of repair
If existing coupling systems are used, then tiles can be mounted to the building, but replacement of damaged tiles is labor intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system's modular segmented design allows individual tiles to be independently accessed and replaced. The support bar and coupling mechanism can be quickly disconnected from the framework, enabling rapid tile removal and replacement without affecting adjacent tiles or requiring extensive demolition work.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism incorporates dynamic elements such as adjustable components and flexible connection points that adapt during the replacement process. This allows workers to quickly adjust and secure new tiles in place, reducing the time and effort required for tile replacement while maintaining secure attachment.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional mounting methods are used, then tiles can be attached to the framework, but assembly is difficult and complex
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the coupling system into standardized modular components (support bars, coupling mechanisms, connection elements), the assembly process becomes more straightforward. Each component can be manufactured independently with standardized interfaces, simplifying the overall assembly procedure while the modular nature allows for flexible configuration to handle different tile sizes and building framework variations.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling system for mounting a tile to a framework of a building is disclosed. In one example of an embodiment, the coupling system includes a support bar arranged and configured for coupling to the tile and one or more clips coupled to the support bar. In one example of an embodiment, the clips include a tile-mounting opening for coupling the clips to the support bar and a frame-mounting opening for coupling the clips to the framework of the building to thereby couple the tile to the framework of the building. In one example of an embodiment, the support bar is arranged and configured for receipt within a longitudinal channel formed in the tile.