Universal Joining Strips for Compound Fenestration Mull Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compound fenestration assembly mull joints face challenges in maintaining sufficient strength, especially with multiple adjacent fenestration units, and often require disassembly or expose fasteners, compromising aesthetics and structural integrity.
Innovation Solution
The use of universal joining strips and components like gussets, locator plates, and end plugs to form mull joints that are mechanically interlocking, allowing for secure connection without disassembly and hiding fasteners, thus enhancing strength and appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional spacer boards and screws are used to join fenestration units, then the assembly method is simple, but the mull joint strength is insufficient and fasteners are exposed compromising aesthetics
Solution Approach 1:
The joining system is divided into separate functional components: joining strips attached to frame members, interlocking brackets with channel structures, and distinct fastening mechanisms. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall structural integrity and enabling concealed fastening for aesthetic purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket structures are designed with nested channel configurations where one bracket inserts into another, creating interlocking joints. The channels within brackets accommodate fasteners and alignment features, nesting multiple functional elements within a compact joint assembly that provides both strength and concealed fastening.
2Strength
If interlocking brackets are used to join units, then joint strength improves, but the installation process becomes more complex and may require disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
Joining strips and brackets are pre-assembled into integrated joint components during manufacturing. Alignment features and channel structures are pre-positioned to guide field installation, eliminating the need for complex measurements or adjustments during installation and reducing the need for disassembly and reassembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
Joining strips serve as intermediary elements that attach to frame members and provide mounting surfaces for brackets. These intermediaries simplify the connection process by creating standardized interfaces between fenestration units, allowing brackets to be installed without disassembling the frame members themselves.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different components are used to form mull joints, then joint functionality is comprehensive, but the number of components increases and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Brackets are designed with universal channel structures that can accommodate various fastening methods and adapt to different frame member configurations. The same bracket design can be used for both interior and exterior joints, and the channel system can accommodate different fastener types, reducing the need for specialized components for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional features are merged into single components: brackets incorporate both structural support and fastening mechanisms, joining strips combine alignment and attachment functions, and end plugs integrate sealing and finishing functions. This merging reduces the total component count while maintaining comprehensive joint functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
Compound fenestration assembly mull joints, compound fenestration assemblies using those mull joints, and methods of making and using the same are described herein. The mull joints in compound fenestration assemblies as described herein use universal joining strips to form both sides of a mull joint, as well as other universal components such as, e.g., corner gussets, locator plates, end plugs, seal members, etc. that may be used as needed to form mull joints as required in a compound fenestration assembly.