Masonry Veneer Bracket System for Air Gap and Drainage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Masonry veneer systems require a scratch coat and lath installation, which adds cost, labor, and complexity, and is prone to human error, weather limitations, and waste due to the need for precise application and curing processes, as well as limited drainage options in panelized products.
Innovation Solution
A masonry veneer product system with embedded brackets that secure the product to a building, creating an integral air gap for moisture escape and using a weather-resistant barrier to prevent moisture entry, eliminating the need for a scratch coat and lath, and allowing for efficient installation and reduced waste.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a scratch coat and lath system is installed, then the veneer system provides proper moisture management and structural support, but the installation complexity, labor cost, and time requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the moisture management function and structural support function into the veneer product itself through integrated drainage channels and reinforcement elements, eliminating the need for separate scratch coat and lath components while maintaining the required performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and eliminates the scratch coat and lath components from the traditional veneer system, retaining only the essential functions through integrated design elements within the veneer product
2Strength
If a scratch coat and lath system is installed, then the veneer system provides proper structural support, but the labor cost and installation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the structural support function into the veneer product through integrated reinforcement elements such as embedded mesh or stiffening ribs, allowing the veneer to be self-supporting without requiring separate lath and scratch coat applications
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the structural support function into discrete integrated elements within the veneer product itself, such as embedded reinforcement meshes or rigid backing structures, enabling faster installation without compromising strength
3Productivity
If panelized veneer products are used, then installation speed increases, but drainage capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the panelized construction approach with integrated drainage channels within the panels, maintaining the installation speed benefits of panelization while incorporating effective moisture management pathways
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 system simplifies and speeds up the installation process, reduces material waste, and enhances durability by eliminating the need for a scratch coat and lath, while maintaining effective moisture management and aesthetic appeal.
Implementation Method 1
the bracket also creates an integral air gap behind the product for the escape of moisture
Implementation Method 2
the bracket also creates an integral air gap behind the product for the escape of moisture
Implementation Method 3
a weather resistant barrier (WRB), then application of a lath
Data Source
AI summary
A veneer product and system includes a body having an aesthetic front surface and a back surface for installation adjacent the building. The body has a top side and a bottom side and a bracket attached to body and projecting away from the back surface of the body, the bracket further comprising a first end adjacent the top side for attachment to the building and a first protrusion for positioning the back surface a predetermined distance from the building and a second end having a second protrusion for positioning the bottom of the back surface a predetermined distance from the building and a bottom projection adjacent the bottom side for engagement with a second body to retain the bottom end of the veneer product.