U.S. patent application number 10/828013 was filed with the patent office on 2005-01-20 for roof systems and panel clip arrangements therefor.
Invention is credited to Kim, Kwon.
Application Number | 20050011154 10/828013 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34068388 |
Filed Date | 2005-01-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050011154 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kim, Kwon |
January 20, 2005 |
Roof systems and panel clip arrangements therefor
Abstract
A thermal clip arrangement for a roof panel system, such as a
standing seam roof system, wherein the thermal clip arrangement
includes a non-metallic anchor block which holds a slideable metal
clip.
Inventors: |
Kim, Kwon; (Oklahoma City,
OK) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Ian K. Samways
Reed Smith LLP
P.O. Box 488
Pittsburgh
PA
15230-0488
US
|
Family ID: |
34068388 |
Appl. No.: |
10/828013 |
Filed: |
April 19, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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60488084 |
Jul 16, 2003 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
52/506.06 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04D 2003/3615 20130101;
E04D 3/362 20130101; E04D 2003/3612 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
052/506.06 |
International
Class: |
E04B 002/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A roof clip arrangement comprising: a tab portion for attachment
to roof cladding; and an anchor portion; said tab portion being
slidably mounted with respect to said anchor portion; said anchor
portion having a coefficient of thermal conductivity less than that
of metals.
2. The roof clip arrangement according to claim 1, wherein said
anchor portion comprises a non-metallic material.
3. The roof clip arrangement according to claim 2, wherein said
anchor portion comprises a plastic or polymeric material.
4. The roof clip arrangement according to claim 3, wherein said
anchor portion comprises a main body consisting essentially of a
plastic or polymeric material.
5. The roof clip arrangement according to claim 3, wherein said
plastic or polymeric material comprises at least one of: plastic
foam; PVC; CPVC; FRP; LEXAN; at least one composite comprising at
least one plastic or polymeric material; at least one reground or
recycled materials that is at least partly polymeric or
plastic.
6. The roof clip arrangement according to claim 1, wherein said
anchor portion has a coefficient of thermal conductivity less of
less than 1.0.
7. The roof clip arrangement according to claim 1, wherein said
anchor portion is formed from at least one material substantially
immune to UV-degradation.
8. The roof clip arrangement according to claim 1, wherein said tab
portion comprises a clip arrangement adapted for attachment to roof
cladding.
9. The roof clip arrangement according to claim 1, wherein said
anchor portion comprises at least one centering guide for guiding
at least one fastening element to facilitate fastening of said
anchor portion to a portion of a roofing arrangement.
10. The roof clip arrangement according to claim 9, wherein said
tab portions comprise at least one notch which aligns with said at
least one centering guide to facilitate centering of said tab
portion with respect to said anchor portion.
11. The roof clip arrangement according to claim 1, wherein said
anchor portion comprises a slot for accommodating said tab portion,
said slot being adapted to substantially prevent movement of said
tab portion in a direction different from a sliding direction.
12. The roof clip arrangement according to claim 11, wherein said
slot comprises a T-shaped slot.
13. The roof clip arrangement according to claim 1, wherein said
tab portion is formed from metal.
14. The roof clip arrangement according to claim 13, wherein said
tab portion is formed from light gauge stainless steel.
15. The roof clip arrangement according to claim 14, wherein said
tab portion is formed from galvanized steel with a zinc or zinc
alloy coating.
16. The roof clip arrangement according to claim 1, wherein said
anchor portion has an asymmetrical cross-section in a plane
perpendicular to a direction of sliding of said tab portion.
17. The roof clip arrangement according to claim 16, wherein said
anchor portion comprises an asymmetrical foot portion for
accommodating at least one fastening element.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. No. 60/488,044, filed on Jul. 16, 2003.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention generally relates to roof systems and
arrangements included therewith that stabilize roofs, e.g., by
providing wind uplift resistance.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Typically, among the challenges that need to be addressed in
providing a standing seam roof system or the like, and panel clips
or the like therefor, are: thermal conductivity (as particularly
regards "cold spots", the likelihood of energy loss, and meeting
building codes); wind uplift resistance; and available room for
panel clips to slide in response to typical (thermal or mechanical)
stress deformations.
[0004] To meet these demands and more, Star Building Systems of
Oklahoma City, Okla., currently manufactures the "STARSHIELD"
standing seam roof system, which involves the use of a unique metal
panel clip of a two-piece cooperative sliding design which
accommodates, e.g., thermal expansion. Such a clip is shown (100)
in perspective view in FIG. 1, wherein a sliding tab 102 is mounted
on a main clip body 104 at a slot 106 which permits sliding motion
of the tab 102 with respect to the main clip body 104. The clip 100
is also shown in elevational view in FIG. 2 mounted between a roof
panel 110 and Z-purlin 112. Both figures (and, especially, the
arrows) help develop an appreciation for the stresses normally
assumed by a panel clip, particularly, in connection with wind
uplift (and analogous mechanical stresses) and with thermal
expansion.
[0005] Other conventional metal roof clips for roof panel
arrangements are widely disclosed, such as in the following U.S.
Pat. No. 6,470,644 to James et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,911,663 to
Eidson; U.S. Pat. No. 5,697,197 to Simpson; U.S. Pat. No. 5,222,341
to Watkins et al.; and U.S. Pat. No. 4,543,760 to Barker et al.
These patents as well as the brochure, "The Starshield Standing
Seam Roof System," identified as brochure no. PDS-SSRS-600 as
published by Star Building Systems, include useful background
information on standing seam roof systems in general.
[0006] However, a need has been recognized in connection with
providing panel clips and related components that address the
aforementioned challenges, and more, in improved fashion.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] In accordance with at least one presently preferred
embodiment of the present invention, there is broadly contemplated
a thermal clip system involving a non-metallic anchor block which
holds a slideable metal clip.
[0008] Generally, there is broadly contemplated in accordance with
at least one presently preferred embodiment of the present
invention a roof clip arrangement comprising: a tab portion for
attachment to roof cladding; and an anchor portion; the tab portion
being slidably mounted with respect to the anchor portion; the
anchor portion having a coefficient of thermal conductivity less
than that of metals.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] The present invention and its presently preferred
embodiments will be better understood by way of reference to the
detailed disclosure herebelow and to the accompanying drawings,
wherein:
[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a conventional roof
clip;
[0011] FIG. 2 is an elevational view of a conventional roof clip
integrated with roofing;
[0012] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a roof clip;
[0013] FIG. 4 is a essentially the same view as FIG. 3, but with
the sliding tab shown in a different position;
[0014] FIGS. 5A and 5B are orthogonally distinct elevational views
of a roof clip integrated into a Z-purlin roofing arrangement;
[0015] FIGS. 6A and 6B are orthogonally distinct elevational views
of a roof clip integrated into an open web purlin.
[0016] FIG. 7 is a graphical illustration of Z-purlin rotation
under load.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0017] The patents mentioned heretofore, as well as the brochure,
"The Starshield Standing Seam Roof System," identified as brochure
no. PDS-SSRS-600 as published by Star Building Systems, include
useful background information on standing seam roof systems in
general.
[0018] Typically, panel clips are formed entirely from metal, as is
the case with the current Star Building Systems panel clip
mentioned above (and as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2). However, it has
been recognized that the use of a non-metallic material, as
evidenced by the conductivity table provided below, can present a
substantial reduction in thermal conductivity that may be of great
assistance in the context of a roofing system.
1 Conductivity Table Gold 172.0 Steel 26.2 Brick, fired 0.58 Wood,
oak 0.102 Plastic foam 0.16
[0019] (Conductivity [K]; Btu/Hr/ft.sup.2/F on 1" thick homogeneous
material)
[0020] Though plastic foam is mentioned above, it should be
appreciated that the following materials are in particular
presently contemplated for use in a panel clip, in accordance with
at least one presently preferred embodiment of the present
invention, are: PVC (polyvinyl chloride); CPVC (chlorinated
polyvinyl chloride); nylon; polypropylene; LEXAN (polycarbonate);
or any of a wide variety of possible composites involving plastic
or polymeric materials. For instance, there are also contemplated a
wide variety of reground or recycled materials that are at least
partly polymeric or plastic. Essentially any such materials may
conceivably be employed, providing the thermal conductivity is low
and other desired physical specifications are met (e.g., having
little or no propensity for heat and UV-degradation).
[0021] A perspective view of a roof clip in accordance with a
preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 3.
As shown, there may preferably be provided a plastic or polymeric
main body (or anchor block 204) as well as a sliding metal tab
portion. The sliding metal tab portion 202 will preferably serve to
attach to roof cladding, much as would a conventional metal clip.
The sliding metal tab portion 202 may be formed and configured in
essentially any suitable manner, but may preferably be formed from
light gauge (such as 26-gauge or 29-gauge) stainless steel. A
viable alternative to light gauge stainless steel, among others,
would be galvanized steel with a zinc or zinc/aluminum coating. The
possibilities for fabricating a panel clip main body or anchor
block in accordance with at least one presently preferred
embodiment of the present invention are wide and varied, and
include: molding; screw injection molding; extrusion; pulltrusion;
and NC machining. Also shown are center guides 214, to be described
more fully below.
[0022] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an anchor block with the
metallic tab 202 having been slid outwards into a different
position. It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the
art that such sliding action is needed to accommodate thermal
expansion and contraction in the greater roofing arrangement, while
the attendant low friction between the plastic or polymeric anchor
block and the metallic tab body will be of immense practical
benefit in extending the service life of the thermal clip in
general. Sliding action here is essentially unlimited, which can
provide tremendous advantages.
[0023] Though there is essentially illustrated and contemplated a
solid, basically monolithic body for use as an anchor block 204, it
should be appreciated that a vast number of analogously functioning
structures may also be employed. For instance, a beehive or
honeycomb type structure, having essentially the same outer
cross-section but a differing internal configuration, may be
employed. Essentially any external or internal configuration is
conceivable, provided that the resultant management of stress flow
is optimized so as not to abjectly compromise structural integrity
or overall performance under load.
[0024] FIGS. 5A and 5B provide more detailed elevational views of
essentially the same concept as in FIG. 3, but with additional
peripheral components illustrated. (FIG. 5B provides an elevational
view from an orthogonally distinct direction with respect to FIG.
5A.) As shown, a non-metallic anchor block 204 may be affixed to
the Z-purlin or open web purlin (212) of a roofing arrangement via
one or more suitable anchor fasteners 216. The sliding tab 202 is
preferably attached to a roof panel 210 in conventional manner
(e.g., via crimping) along a seam 218. One or more fastener guides
(or center guides) 214 are preferably provided to facilitate the
insertion and centering of the anchor fastener(s) 216. As shown,
the anchor fasteners 216 could preferably be embodied by two #12-14
self-drilling (SD) screws. Sliding tab 202 will also preferably
have "notches" (e.g., of a part-circular shape) that will integrate
with center guides 214 such that an unimpeded volumetric (e.g.,
cylindrical) space is created from top to bottom when the tab 202
itself is properly centered or aligned. This will thus allow for
minor movements of tab 202, as may occur during shipment, to be
corrected when assembly of a roof structure takes place; the
assembler will need only slide the tab 202 until the notches are
properly aligned with the center guides 214.
[0025] Preferably, the outer cross-section of block 204 may be
asymmetrical via a protrusive foot portion 219 as shown, which can
increase the bearing area for gravity load while providing an
optional locus of attachment for fasteners 216.
[0026] It should be appreciated that the shapes and configurations
illustrated in FIGS. 3-5B, have been found to be particularly
favorable in terms of fulfilling the desired objectives, including,
but not limited to, spatial accommodation with respect to the roof
panel (such that a large surface portion of the anchor block is
disposed essentially directly adjacent the material of the roof
panel), and the "T-slot" configuration via which the sliding tab is
slidably mounted with respect to the anchor block. It will further
be appreciated that the illustrated "T-slot" configuration and
sliding tab can provide for more extensive contact between the
sliding tab and roof panel so as to impart greater strength and
integrity to the roof panel structure both when essentially
stationary or when sliding due to, e.g., thermal expansion.
[0027] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate essentially the same concept as
in FIGS. 5A and 5B, but in the context of an open web purlin
arrangement. Components in FIGS. 6A and 6B similar to those found
in FIGS. 5A and 5B bear reference numerals advanced by 100.
Dimensions a and b, provided solely for illustrative purposes,
could be 6" and 8", respectively, thus illustrating the admirable
physical coverage that can easily be provided by a relatively small
anchor block (304). In this instance, center guides 314 and
fasteners 316 are spaced apart proportionately greater than in the
embodiment of FIGS. 5A and 5B.
[0028] FIG. 7 graphically illustrates Z-purlin rotation under load.
As shown, under load a Z-purlin may displace by an essentially
horizontal distance dx and an essentially vertical distance dy.
Also, an essentially vertical leg portion, providing a major
portion of the strength and integrity of the Z-purlin, may displace
angularly over a rotational angle b. It will be appreciated that in
the presence of significant displacements dx, dy and b, such as in
response to thermal stress, the physical stress on the Z-purlin
will have the potential to negatively impact surrounding components
to which the Z-purlin is attached. However, in the presence of a
thermal clip as broadly contemplated herein, it will be appreciated
that thermal stress will indeed be reduced and, as a result, will
result in much less structural displacement dx, dy and b, thus
helping preserve the structural integrity of the Z-purlin and the
components connected therewith.
[0029] In brief summary, among the features and benefits provided
by a panel clip in accordance with at least one presently preferred
embodiment of the present invention are:
[0030] the elimination of a thermal short between the roof cladding
and building structure, along with the associated energy efficiency
and elimination of "cold spots";
[0031] a longer tab length, which reduces local stress
concentration, thereby distributing load over a larger area, and
increases wind up-lift capacity;
[0032] a (preferably) 26 gauge tab which requires less power during
a seaming process, leads to essentially no seam bulging and no
corrosion, and lends itself to a stronger tab and longer service
life;
[0033] a non-metallic body for holding the sliding tab that leads
to freer sliding, less resistance to binding, and less force
accumulation in the attendant mutual contact;
[0034] stabilization of Z-purlin rotation under load; and
[0035] a reduction in sound transmission.
[0036] If not otherwise stated herein, it may be assumed that all
components and/or processes described heretofore may, if
appropriate, be considered to be interchangeable with similar
components and/or processes disclosed elsewhere in the
specification, unless an express indication is made to the
contrary.
[0037] If not otherwise stated herein, any and all patents, patent
publications, articles and other printed publications discussed or
mentioned herein are hereby incorporated by reference as if set
forth in their entirety herein.
[0038] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. No. 60/488,044, filed on Jul. 16, 2003,
which is hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth in its
entirety herein.
[0039] It should be appreciated that the apparatus and method of
the present invention may be configured and conducted as
appropriate for any context at hand. The embodiments described
above are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and
not restrictive. All changes which come within the meaning and
range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their
scope.
* * * * *