Underroof Collars for Roof Windows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing underroof collars are difficult to handle and install when mounting groups of roof windows, especially on windy days, and current solutions either require folding or cutting, which can lead to errors such as incorrect flashing placement or water penetration.
Innovation Solution
A set of underroof collars with side collar members of different configurations, allowing for adjustable widths and pleating, and interconnection options using adhesive tape, to facilitate easier installation and ensure watertightness between roof windows and the underroof structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single big underroof collar is used to embrace all roof windows of the group, then the fit with the roof windows is good, but the collar becomes difficult to handle and install, especially on windy days
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the underroof collar system into multiple separate collars, each designed to fit individual roof windows or small groups of windows. This segmentation maintains the adaptability and fit of each collar while significantly improving handleability, as smaller collars are easier to maneuver and install individually, even in windy conditions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If connector collar members are added to interconnect top and bottom collar members, then the fit and sealing are improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of installation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of separate connector collar members into the main body of the underroof collar. By integrating the connection and sealing functions into a single unified collar structure, the system achieves good sealing fit while reducing the total number of components and simplifying the installation process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If side collar members are made with surplus material (pleated) to reach over laths, then the ability to reach down to the underroof is improved, but the handling and positioning become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs pleated or accordion-style side collar members that can dynamically expand and contract. The pleated structure allows the collar to be compact during handling and storage, then expand when needed to reach over laths and seal properly against the underroof, providing adaptability without permanently increasing handling difficulty.
Data Source
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AI summary
A set of underroof collars for use with a group of roof windows mounted in a sloped roof structure and a method for sealing a joint between a group of roof windows and an underroof are disclosed. Each underroof collar comprises a top collar member for extending along a top frame member of a frame of the roof window, a bottom collar member for extending along a bottom frame member, and two side collar members. The set comprises a first and a second underroof collar, where the two side collar members are of different configurations. The two side collar members may have different widths and/or one may be made with a surplus of material, while the other is without a surplus of material. Furthermore, the set comprises a third underroof collar with side collar members of the same configuration.