U.S. patent application number 14/224800 was filed with the patent office on 2014-10-30 for purlin construction for roof structures.
The applicant listed for this patent is John Powers, III. Invention is credited to John Powers, III.
Application Number | 20140318046 14/224800 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51788037 |
Filed Date | 2014-10-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140318046 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Powers, III; John |
October 30, 2014 |
PURLIN CONSTRUCTION FOR ROOF STRUCTURES
Abstract
An elongated purlin for use in roof structures including an
elongated solid continuous strip of metal, the strip of metal
having multiple bends parallel with the longitudinal axis to form
and define an elongated mounting wall, an elongated upright wall
extending from the mounting wall, a first cross piece extending
horizontally outwardly in opposite directions from the plane of the
upright wall, a second cross piece integrally attached to the first
cross piece and extending horizontally outwardly in opposite
directions from the plane of the upright wall, and each of the
first and second cross pieces having bent double layer
construction. The first and second cross pieces are spaced apart to
define channels designed to receive an edge of a solar panel or
roof section engaged therein.
Inventors: |
Powers, III; John; (Phoenix,
AZ) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Powers, III; John |
Phoenix |
AZ |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
51788037 |
Appl. No.: |
14/224800 |
Filed: |
March 25, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13610228 |
Sep 11, 2012 |
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14224800 |
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61563997 |
Nov 28, 2011 |
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61608122 |
Mar 8, 2012 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
52/173.3 ;
29/897.35; 52/831 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04C 2003/0482 20130101;
F24S 25/35 20180501; Y02B 10/20 20130101; E04C 2003/0434 20130101;
E04C 2003/0421 20130101; E04C 2003/046 20130101; Y02E 10/47
20130101; Y10T 29/49634 20150115; H02S 20/23 20141201; E04D 12/004
20130101; E04C 3/07 20130101; E04C 3/02 20130101; Y02B 10/10
20130101; Y02E 10/50 20130101; F24S 25/12 20180501; E04C 2003/0473
20130101; E04C 2003/0413 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
52/173.3 ;
52/831; 29/897.35 |
International
Class: |
F24J 2/52 20060101
F24J002/52; E04C 3/02 20060101 E04C003/02 |
Claims
1. An elongated purlin for use in roof structures comprising: an
elongated solid continuous strip of metal with a longitudinal axis,
the strip of metal having multiple bends parallel with the
longitudinal axis to form and define: an elongated mounting wall
designed to be mounted to and supported on roof beams; an elongated
upright wall integrally affixed to and extending from the mounting
wall and extending in a plane; a first cross piece integrally
attached to the upright wall with a first portion and a second
portion extending horizontally outwardly in opposite directions
from the plane of the upright wall to form a T-shape with the
upright wall, each of the first portion and the second portion of
the first cross piece formed with bent double layer construction; a
second cross piece integrally attached to the first cross piece
with a first portion and a second portion extending horizontally
outwardly in opposite directions from the plane of the upright wall
to form a T-shape with the plane of the upright wall, each of the
first portion and the second portion of the second cross piece
formed with bent double layer construction; and the first cross
piece and the second cross piece being spaced apart to define first
and second horizontal channels opening outwardly in opposite
directions from the plane of the upright wall, the first horizontal
channel being defined between the first portion of the first cross
piece and the first portion of the second cross piece and the
second horizontal channel being defined between the second portion
of the first cross piece and the second portion of the second cross
piece, and each of the first and second channels being designed to
receive an edge of a solar panel or roof section engaged
therein.
2. An elongated purlin as claimed in claim 1 wherein the elongated
upright wall between the elongated mounting wall and the first
cross piece is continuous with no breaks or openings therein.
3. An elongated purlin as claimed in claim 1 wherein the elongated
solid continuous strip of metal has a length at least equal to a
desired length of the elongated purlin and a width approximately
19.00 inches to 21.00 inches.
4. An elongated purlin as claimed in claim 1 wherein the first
portion and the second portion of the first cross piece extend
horizontally outwardly a greater distance than the first portion
and the second portion of the second cross piece.
5. An elongated purlin as claimed in claim 4 wherein the first
cross piece extends horizontally outwardly in opposite directions
from the plane of the upright wall a distance greater than 1
inch.
6. An elongated purlin as claimed in claim 4 wherein the second
cross piece extends horizontally outwardly in opposite directions
from the plane of the upright wall a distance less than 1 inch.
7. An elongated end cap purlin for use in roof structures
comprising: an elongated solid continuous strip of metal with a
longitudinal axis, the strip of metal having multiple bends
parallel with the longitudinal axis to form and define: an
elongated mounting wall designed to be mounted to and supported on
roof beams; an elongated upright wall integrally affixed to and
extending from the mounting wall and extending in a plane, the
mounting wall extending from the upright wall in a direction; a
first cross piece integrally attached to the upright wall and
extending horizontally outwardly from the upright wall in a
direction parallel with the direction of the mounting wall, the
first cross piece formed with bent double layer construction; a
second cross piece integrally attached to the first cross piece and
extending horizontally outwardly from the plane of the upright wall
in a direction parallel with the direction of the mounting wall,
the second cross piece formed with bent double layer construction;
and the first cross piece and the second cross piece being spaced
apart to define a horizontal channel therebetween opening outwardly
from the plane of the upright wall, and the second channel being
designed to receive an edge of a solar panel or roof section
engaged therein.
8. A solar panel mounting system for use in roof structures
comprising: a plurality of elongated purlins with each purlin
comprising an elongated solid continuous strip of metal with a
longitudinal axis, the strip of metal having multiple bends
parallel with the longitudinal axis to form and define: an
elongated mounting wall designed to be mounted to and supported on
roof beams; an elongated upright wall integrally affixed to and
extending from the mounting wall and extending in a plane; a first
cross piece integrally attached to the upright wall with a first
portion and a second portion extending horizontally outwardly in
opposite directions from the plane of the upright wall to form a
T-shape with the upright wall, each of the first portion and the
second portion of the first cross piece formed with bent double
layer construction; a second cross piece integrally attached to the
first cross piece with a first portion and a second portion
extending horizontally outwardly in opposite directions from the
plane of the upright wall to form a T-shape with the plane of the
upright wall, each of the first portion and the second portion of
the second cross piece formed with bent double layer construction;
and the first cross piece and the second cross piece being spaced
apart to define first and second horizontal channels opening
outwardly in opposite directions from the plane of the upright
wall, the first horizontal channel being defined between the first
portion of the first cross piece and the first portion of the
second cross piece and the second horizontal channel being defined
between the second portion of the first cross piece and the second
portion of the second cross piece, and each of the first and second
channels being designed to receive an edge of a solar panel or roof
section engaged therein; a plurality of elongated end cap purlins,
each end cap purlin comprising: an elongated solid continuous strip
of metal with a longitudinal axis, the strip of metal having
multiple bends parallel with the longitudinal axis to form and
define: an elongated mounting wall designed to be mounted to and
supported on roof beams; an elongated upright wall integrally
affixed to and extending from the mounting wall and extending in a
plane, the mounting wall extending from the upright wall in a
direction; a first cross piece integrally attached to the upright
wall and extending horizontally outwardly from the upright wall in
a direction parallel with the direction of the mounting wall, the
first cross piece formed with bent double layer construction; a
second cross piece integrally attached to the first cross piece and
extending horizontally outwardly from the plane of the upright wall
in a direction parallel with the direction of the mounting wall,
the second cross piece formed with bent double layer construction;
and the first cross piece and the second cross piece being spaced
apart to define a horizontal channel therebetween opening outwardly
from the plane of the upright wall, and the second channel being
designed to receive an edge of a solar panel or roof section
engaged therein; and a plurality of solar panels; the plurality of
elongated purlins and the plurality of elongated end cap purlins
attached to roof beams to define a flat roof and the plurality of
solar panels engaged in each of the first and second horizontal
channels of the plurality of elongated purlins and the horizontal
channel of each of the plurality of elongated end cap purlins to
form a continuous flat roof.
9. A method of fabricating an elongated purlin for use in roof
structures comprising the steps of: providing an elongated solid
continuous strip of metal with a longitudinal axis, bending the
strip of metal parallel with the longitudinal axis with multiple
bends not necessarily in the order listed below; bending the strip
of metal parallel with the longitudinal axis to form an elongated
mounting wall designed to be mounted to and supported on roof
beams; bending the strip of metal parallel with the longitudinal
axis to form an elongated upright wall integrally affixed to and
extending from the mounting wall and extending in a plane; bending
the strip of metal parallel with the longitudinal axis to form a
first cross piece integrally attached to the upright wall with a
first portion and a second portion extending horizontally outwardly
in opposite directions from the plane of the upright wall to form a
T-shape with the upright wall, each of the first portion and the
second portion of the first cross piece formed with bent double
layer construction; bending the strip of metal parallel with the
longitudinal axis to form a second cross piece integrally attached
to the first cross piece with a first portion and a second portion
extending horizontally outwardly in opposite directions from the
plane of the upright wall to form a T-shape with the plane of the
upright wall, each of the first portion and the second portion of
the second cross piece formed with bent double layer construction;
and bending the strip of metal parallel with the longitudinal axis
to form the first cross piece and the second cross piece in a
spaced apart relationship to define first and second horizontal
channels opening outwardly in opposite directions from the plane of
the upright wall, the first horizontal channel being defined
between the first portion of the first cross piece and the first
portion of the second cross piece and the second horizontal channel
being defined between the second portion of the first cross piece
and the second portion of the second cross piece, and each of the
first and second channels being designed to receive an edge of a
solar panel or roof section engaged therein.
10. A method as claimed in claim 9 wherein the steps of bending the
strip of metal parallel with the longitudinal axis to form the
first cross piece and bending the strip of metal parallel with the
longitudinal axis to form the second cross piece includes forming
the first cross piece to extend horizontally outwardly a greater
distance than the second cross piece.
11. A method as claimed in claim 9 wherein the step of bending the
strip of metal parallel with the longitudinal axis to form the
first cross piece includes extending the first cross piece
horizontally outwardly in opposite directions from the plane of the
upright wall a distance greater than 1 inch.
12. A method as claimed in claim 9 wherein the step of bending the
strip of metal parallel with the longitudinal axis to form the
second cross piece includes extending the second cross piece
horizontally outwardly in opposite directions from the plane of the
upright wall a distance less than 1 inch.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation in part of copending U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 13/610,228, filed 11 Oct. 2012 which
claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
61/563,997, filed 28 Nov. 2011 and to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 61/608,122, filed 8 Mar. 2012.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention generally relates to purlin type supports for
roof structures and more specifically purlins formed from a single
strip of metal. The invention further relates to a solar panel roof
mounting system.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] At the present time, metal roof structures and/or solar
panel mounts include purlins in a generally C-shape or, in some
instances, a box-shape for extra strength. The solar panels are
then mounted on the purlins by means of bolts, screws, or other
fastening devices. The purlins have an upper flat surface to which
the solar panels are attached. The problem that arises is that the
process of attaching the solar panels to the upper flat surface of
the purlins is exceptionally difficult and time consuming.
[0004] For example, the solar panels or other roof sections must be
placed on the upper flat surface of the purlins which can be a
difficult task for larger roof areas, and then attached to the
purlins by some attachment devices. The attachment devices can,
primarily, be only inserted through the purlins and into the solar
panels or roof sections from the bottom or beneath the roof. This
can be a daunting task since the roof sections are loose and held
in place only by their weight. Thus, during the step of fixing the
roof sections to the purlins the roof sections can become
misaligned or incompletely attached. That is some bolts, screws, or
other attachment devices can be inadvertently inserted through the
solar panel proper or roof section proper rather than through
supporting structures surrounding the solar panels or roof
sections. Also, even if the assembly is error free, the task is
very work intensive with the time and effort increasing as the
errors are eliminated or attempted to be eliminated.
[0005] An additional requirement in the formation of purlins and
especially purlins that hold roof sections of solar panels in place
to form a flat roof is that they must be strong enough to hold the
sections firmly in place during various weather conditions (e.g.
wind, snow, rain, etc.). Generally, the solar panels or roof
sections are held in place only along a small portion of opposite
edges that are fixed to the purlins so as to provide maximum area
exposed to the sun. Weather conditions, such as snow, rain, or even
wind can produce a tremendous downward pressure on solar panels or
roof sections with a relatively large area (e.g. a rectangle
multiple feet wide by multiple feet long) so that any physical
structure gripping and holding the edges must be able to withstand
relatively large vertical forces. Further, the physical structure
holding the edges must be designed to cover as small an amount of
surface area as possible to provide more upper surface for solar
cells and the like.
[0006] It would be highly advantageous, therefore, to remedy the
foregoing and other deficiencies inherent in the prior art.
[0007] Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to
provide a new and improved purlin for roof structures.
[0008] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
new and improved purlin for roof structures to which solar panels
or roof sections can be easily and quickly attached.
[0009] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
new and improved purlin for roof structures that are relatively
simple and inexpensive to manufacture and install.
[0010] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
new and improved purlin for roof structures that can be
conveniently formed from a single strip of metal.
[0011] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
new and improved system for roof structures including purlins and
end caps that form a complete roof structure.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] Briefly, to achieve the desired objects of the instant
invention in accordance with a preferred embodiment thereof, an
elongated purlin for use in roof structures is provided. The purlin
includes an elongated solid continuous strip of metal with a
longitudinal axis, the strip of metal having multiple bends
parallel with the longitudinal axis to form and define an elongated
mounting wall designed to be mounted to and supported on roof
beams, an elongated upright wall integrally affixed to and
extending from the mounting wall and extending in a plane, a first
cross piece integrally attached to the upright wall with a first
portion and a second portion extending horizontally outwardly in
opposite directions from the plane of the upright wall to form a
T-shape with the upright wall, and a second cross piece integrally
attached to the first cross piece with a first portion and a second
portion extending horizontally outwardly in opposite directions
from the plane of the upright wall to form a T-shape with the plane
of the upright wall. Each of the first portion and the second
portion of both the first and second cross pieces is formed with
bent double layer construction. The first cross piece and the
second cross piece are spaced apart to define first and second
horizontal channels opening outwardly in opposite directions from
the plane of the upright wall. The first horizontal channel is
defined between the first portion of the first cross piece and the
first portion of the second cross piece and the second horizontal
channel is defined between the second portion of the first cross
piece and the second portion of the second cross piece. Each of the
first and second channels is designed to receive an edge of a solar
panel or roof section engaged therein.
[0013] The desired objects of the instant invention are further
realized in accordance with a specific embodiment of an elongated
end cap purlin for use in roof structures. The end cap purlin
includes an elongated solid continuous strip of metal with a
longitudinal axis, the strip of metal having multiple bends
parallel with the longitudinal axis to form and define, an
elongated mounting wall designed to be mounted to and supported on
roof beams, an elongated upright wall integrally affixed to and
extending from the mounting wall and extending in a plane, the
mounting wall extending from the upright wall in a direction, a
first cross piece integrally attached to the upright wall and
extending horizontally outwardly from the upright wall in a
direction parallel with the direction of the mounting wall, the
first cross piece having bent double layer construction, and a
second cross piece integrally attached to the first cross piece and
extending horizontally outwardly from the plane of the upright wall
in a direction parallel with the direction of the mounting wall,
the second cross piece having bent double layer construction. The
first cross piece and the second cross piece are spaced apart to
define a horizontal channel therebetween opening outwardly from the
plane of the upright wall, and the second channel being designed to
receive an edge of a solar panel or roof section engaged
therein.
[0014] The desired objects of the instant invention are further
realized in accordance with a preferred embodiment of an elongated
purlin for use in roof structures combined with the end cap purlin
to form a system for mounting solar panels in a roof structure.
[0015] The desired objects of the instant invention are further
realized in accordance with a specific method of fabricating an
elongated purlin for use in roof structures including the steps of
providing an elongated solid continuous strip of metal with a
longitudinal axis and bending the strip of metal parallel with the
longitudinal axis with multiple bends not necessarily in the order
below. The multiple bends include bending the strip of metal
parallel with the longitudinal axis to form an elongated mounting
wall designed to be mounted to and supported on roof beams, bending
the strip of metal parallel with the longitudinal axis to form an
elongated upright wall integrally affixed to and extending from the
mounting wall and extending in a plane, bending the strip of metal
parallel with the longitudinal axis to form a first cross piece
integrally attached to the upright wall with a first portion and a
second portion extending horizontally outwardly in opposite
directions from the plane of the upright wall to form a T-shape
with the upright wall, and bending the strip of metal parallel with
the longitudinal axis to form a second cross piece integrally
attached to the first cross piece with a first portion and a second
portion extending horizontally outwardly in opposite directions
from the plane of the upright wall to form a T-shape with the plane
of the upright wall. Each of the first portion and the second
portion of each of the first and second cross pieces have a bent
double layer construction. The steps of bending the strip of metal
parallel with the longitudinal axis to form the first cross piece
and the second cross piece in a spaced apart relationship define
first and second horizontal channels opening outwardly in opposite
directions from the plane of the upright wall. The first horizontal
channel is defined between the first portion of the first cross
piece and the first portion of the second cross piece and the
second horizontal channel is defined between the second portion of
the first cross piece and the second portion of the second cross
piece. Each of the first and second channels is designed to receive
an edge of a solar panel or roof section engaged therein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The foregoing and further and more specific objects and
advantages of the instant invention will become readily apparent to
those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of
a preferred embodiment thereof taken in conjunction with the
drawings, in which:
[0017] FIG. 1 is an isometric top view of a flat, cantilevered
multi-column roof structure of a type anticipated for the present
invention;
[0018] FIG. 2 is an end view of an improved purlin used in the
structure of FIG. 1;
[0019] FIG. 3 is a partial longitudinal perspective view of the
improved purlin illustrated in FIG. 2;
[0020] FIG. 4 is an end view of another embodiment of an improved
purlin used in the structure of FIG. 1;
[0021] FIG. 5 is an end perspective view illustrating another
purlin and one method of assembling the purlin;
[0022] FIG. 6 is an end perspective view illustrating another
purlin and one method of assembling the purlin;
[0023] FIG. 7 is an end perspective view illustrating another
purlin and one method of assembling the purlin;
[0024] FIGS. 8 and 9 are an end perspective view and an end view,
respectively, illustrating another purlin;
[0025] FIG. 10 is an end view of another embodiment of an improved
purlin used in the structure of FIG. 1 in accordance with the
present invention; and
[0026] FIG. 11 is an end view of an end cap used in conjunction
with the purlin of FIG. 10 in a complete roof system, in accordance
with the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0027] Turning now to FIG. 1, a flat, cantilevered multi-column
structure 10 is illustrated. Structure 10 includes a plurality of
vertical columns or posts 12 each with a cantilever beam 14
attached to an upper end 16. A plurality of purlins 18 are affixed
to upper surfaces of beams 14 and positioned to extend
longitudinally in parallel spaced apart relationship to
substantially define the roof area. Additional purlin braces 19 can
be incorporated between cantilever beams 14 for additional support
if desired or deemed necessary. Some roofing material, such as
solar panels or flat roof sections 20 are attached to the upper
surface of purlins 18 to form a complete roof. One example of
roofing material or flat sections that can be used for sections 20
is provided in copending United States patent application entitled
"Solar Support Structure", bearing Ser. No. 13/036,858, filed on 28
Feb. 2011, and incorporated herein by reference.
[0028] For purposes of this disclosure it should be understood that
structure 10 is chiefly assembled at the site and it is highly
desirable that each step of the assembly procedure be as simple as
possible. Basically, each of the components mentioned above (i.e.
column 12, beams 14, purlins 18, and roof sections 20) are provided
as individual items from a factory/shop and assembled on site into
structure 10. By providing the items separately each item can be
relatively easily handled by workmen conveying the items to the
site and by workmen doing the assembling at the site. Briefly, the
assembly procedure includes fixing a lower end 22 of each column 12
in the ground or in a base that serves as the ground. One end of a
cantilever beam 14 is affixed to the upper end 16 of each column 12
by structure that is described in more detail in a copending United
States patent application entitled "Flat Roof Support Structure",
bearing Ser. No. 61/481,747 filed on 3 May 2011, and incorporated
herein by reference.
[0029] With cantilever beams 14 fixedly attached, purlins 18 are
attached to the upper surface of cantilever beams 14 in a direction
perpendicular to cantilever beam 14. Again the attachment of
purlins 18 to cantilever beams 14 is illustrated in detail in the
above described copending patent application. At this point
additional purlin braces 19 can be affixed to purlins 18 between
cantilever beams 14 if desired or deemed necessary. Roof sections
20 are then attached to the upper surfaces of purlins 18 in any
well known manner (see for example the structure disclosed in the
above identified copending patent application) and using any well
known attachment devices such as screws, bolts, etc. It will be
understood that structure 10 is used simply as an example of a flat
roof structure and many alterations and changes may be incorporated
for specific applications.
[0030] Purlins 18 illustrated in the above described copending
patent application and FIG. 1 are illustrated as the prior art
purlins with a standard C-shaped cross section. As explained above,
attaching solar panels or flat roof sections to the upper surface
of purlins 18 can be extremely difficult and time consuming. To
overcome this problem the new and novel purlin illustrated in FIGS.
2 and 3 and designated 118 is designed to replace purlins 18 in
FIG. 1.
[0031] Referring specifically to FIGS. 2 and 3, purlin 118 includes
a major side or upright wall 120 with a lower or mounting wall 122
extending horizontally at a right angle to upright wall 120. An
upright flange 124 is optionally formed at the outer edge of
mounting wall 122 to add stiffness or additional lateral support to
purlin 118. Upright wall 120, mounting wall 122, and flange 124
extend longitudinally the entire length of purlin 118. The lower
surface of mounting wall 122 is designed to be mounted to and
supported on roof beams, such as cantilever beams 14 in FIG. 1. The
attaching of purlins 118 to the roof beams is described in detail
in one or both of the above cited copending patent applications and
will not be elaborated upon further herein.
[0032] A first cross piece 130 is formed integrally with and at the
upper end of upright wall 120. Cross piece 130 extends horizontally
outwardly in opposite directions from upright wall 120 to form a
T-shape with upright wall 120. The portion of cross piece 130
extending outwardly to the right in FIG. 2 is designated 130a and
the portion of cross piece 130 extending outwardly to the left in
FIG. 2 is designated 130b. In a similar fashion a second cross
piece 132 is formed integrally with upright wall 120 and spaced
downwardly from cross piece 130. Cross piece 132 extends
horizontally outwardly in opposite directions from upright wall 120
to form a T-shape with upright wall 120. The portion of cross piece
132 extending outwardly to the right in FIG. 2 is designated 132a
and the portion of cross piece 132 extending outwardly to the left
in FIG. 2 is designated 132b.
[0033] As can be seen best in FIG. 2, portions 130a and 132a
cooperate to form a longitudinally extending channel 136
therebetween. Similarly, portions 130b and 132b cooperate to form a
second longitudinally extending channel 138 therebetween positioned
in an opposed direction with channel 136. It will be understood
that channel 136, along with a facing channel in the next adjacent
purlin form a complete track for receiving and holding opposed
edges of a solar panel or flat roof section. Similarly, channel
138, along with a facing channel in the next adjacent purlin, form
a complete track for receiving and holding opposed edges of an
adjacent solar panel or flat roof section. Thus, solar panels or
flat roof sections are quickly and easily attached by simply
sliding them longitudinally into cooperating channels in adjacent
purlins. The solar panels or flat roof sections can be fixed in
place by optionally inserting attachment devices such as screws,
bolts, etc. upwardly through the proper portion 132a or 132b
supporting the solar panel or flat roof section.
[0034] It will be understood that portions 130a and 130b and
portions 132a and 132b can be the same horizontal length or one or
the other can be extended slightly horizontally to add additional
support where desired. Also, in the form of a specialty item,
purlins with portions 130b and 132b can be eliminated to form edge
purlins for the edge of the roof.
[0035] Some measurements for purlin 118 manufactured in accordance
with the present invention, as illustrated in FIG. 2, include the
following. The total vertical height of upright wall 120 is 7.0'';
the horizontal width of mounting wall 122 is 2.50''; the vertical
height of flange 124 is 0.50''; portions 130a and 130b extend
horizontally a total distance of 2.250'' from edge to edge; and
each portion 132a and 132b extends horizontally outwardly 0.750''.
Also, the vertical spacing between the lower surface of cross piece
130 and the upper surface of cross piece 132 is 1.750''.
Preferably, the thickness of the material forming purlin 118 is
0.070''. It will be understood that these measurements are simply
included for example and any measurements may change for specific
applications. Further, since the purlin 118 is preferably formed as
a single integral unit for the entire length, at least one method
of manufacture includes extruding in a well known operation.
[0036] Turning now to FIG. 4, an end view is illustrated of another
embodiment of an improved purlin 218 that can be used in the
structure of FIG. 1 in accordance with the present invention.
Purlin 218 basically includes a C-shaped channel structure,
generally designated 220, with a T-shaped structure, generally
designated 222, integrally attached to an upper surface thereof. It
will be appreciated that purlin 218 incorporates a much sturdier
structure without being unduly heavier or more difficult to
manufacture.
[0037] C-shaped channel 220 includes a horizontal lower or mounting
wall 224 with an upright wall 226 extending vertically upwardly
from one edge. An upright vertical flange 228 is optionally formed
at the outer edge of mounting wall 224 to add stiffness or
additional lateral support to purlin 218. A second horizontal wall
230 extends from the upper edge of upright wall 226 in a parallel
spaced apart overlying relationship to mounting wall 224. A
downwardly directed vertical flange 232 is optionally formed at the
outer edge of second horizontal wall 230 to add stiffness or
additional lateral support to purlin 218. Integrally formed
mounting wall 224, upright wall 226, second horizontal wall 230,
and flanges 228 and 232 extend longitudinally the entire length of
purlin 218 and cooperate to define C-shaped channel 220.
[0038] T-shaped structure 222 includes an upright wall 240
extending vertically upwardly from the upper surface of second
horizontal wall 230 and longitudinally the entire length of purlin
218. Upright wall 240 is affixed to the upper surface of second
horizontal wall 230 approximately midway between the edges so that
second horizontal wall 230 is divided into approximately equal
portions 230a (extending to the right) and 230b (extending to the
left). A cross piece 242 is integrally formed in a horizontally
extending orientation along the upper edge of upright wall 240. A
portion of cross piece 242 extending to the right from upright wall
240 is designated 242a and a portion of cross piece 242 extending
to the left from upright wall 240 is designated 242b.
[0039] Thus portion 230a of second horizontal wall 230 and portion
243a of cross piece 242 form a longitudinally extending, outwardly
opening channel 250 and portion 230b of second horizontal wall 230
and portion 243b of cross piece 242 form a longitudinally extending
channel 252 opening outwardly in an opposed direction to channel
250. It will be understood that channel 250, along with a facing
channel in the next adjacent purlin form a complete track for
receiving and holding opposed edges of a solar panel or flat roof
section. Similarly, channel 252, along with a facing channel in the
next adjacent purlin, form a complete track for receiving and
holding opposed edges of an adjacent solar panel or flat roof
section.
[0040] It should be noted that in this preferred embodiment
C-shaped channel 220 and T-shaped structure 222 are formed as an
integral unit with all components formed as a single integral
structure. However, it will be understood that in some special
applications portions of purlin 219 might be formed separately and
attached by welding or the like. For example T-shaped structure 222
and C-shaped channel 220 might be formed separately and attached in
the orientation illustrated by welding or the like. In the instance
where purlin 218 is formed as a single integral unit for the entire
length, at least one method of manufacture includes extruding in a
well known operation.
[0041] Some measurements for purlin 218, manufactured in accordance
with the present invention as illustrated in FIG. 4 include the
following measurements. The total vertical height from the lower
surface of mounting wall 224 to the upper surface of cross piece
242 is 6.0''; the horizontal width of mounting wall 224 and second
horizontal wall 230 is 2.50''; the vertical height of flanges 228
and 232 is 0.50''; the vertical height from the upper surface of
second horizontal wall 230 to the upper surface of cross piece 242
is 1.750''; and the total horizontal width of cross piece 242 is
2.0'' with each portion 242a and 242b extending 1.0'' from the
center of upright wall 240. In this specific embodiment, flange 232
and second horizontal wall 230 are formed with a thickness of
0.120'' and the remainder of C-shaped channel 220 is formed with a
thickness of 0.060''. Also, cross piece 242 is formed with a
thickness of 0.120'' and upright wall 240 may be formed with a
thickness of 0.060''. It will be understood that these measurements
are simply included for example and any measurements may change for
specific applications.
[0042] Turning now to FIG. 5, an end perspective view is
illustrated of another purlin, designated 318, which may be used in
the structure illustrated in FIG. 1 instead of the purlin
illustrated in FIG. 2. Purlin 318 includes a major side or upright
wall 320 with a lower or mounting wall 322 extending horizontally
at a right angle to upright wall 320. An upright flange 324 is
optionally formed at the outer edge of mounting wall 322 to add
stiffness or additional lateral support to purlin 318. Upright wall
320, mounting wall 322, and flange 324 extend longitudinally the
entire length of purlin 318. The lower surface of mounting wall 322
is designed to be mounted to and supported on roof beams, such as
cantilever beams 14 in FIG. 1. The attaching of purlins 318 to the
roof beams is described in detail in one or both of the above cited
copending patent applications and will not be elaborated upon
further herein.
[0043] In this specific method and structure, upright wall 320,
mounting wall 322, and flange 324 are provided as a unit or a
stand-alone component of purlin 318. A first U-shaped channel
member 330 and a second U-shaped channel member 332 are also
provided as components of purlin 318. The components are then
assembled into purlin 318 by abutting channel member 330 against
upright wall 320 adjacent the right upper end so that it defines an
outwardly opening channel 336 and abutting channel member 332
against upright wall 320 adjacent the left upper end so that it
defines an outwardly opening channel 338. Upright wall 320,
U-shaped channel member 330, and U-shaped channel member 332 are
then fixedly attached together by some convenient means such as
spot welding (preferably), riveting, etc.
[0044] In the preferred embodiment purlin 318 is manufactured from
any convenient metal such as aluminum, sheet steel, etc. Generally,
upright wall 320, U-shaped channel member 330, and U-shaped channel
member 332 can be fabricated from convenient metal material, such
as a relatively heavy gauge sheet metal (e.g. 14 gauge to 25 gauge)
with the specific metal selected for any specific roof application.
For example in roof applications requiring substantial support the
sheet metal selected might be sheet steel while in applications
requiring less support but where weight might be a consideration
sheet aluminum might be used. Thus, spot welding can be used to
conveniently and quickly assemble the three components into a
complete purlin at the factory.
[0045] Turning now to FIG. 6, an end perspective view is
illustrated of another purlin, designated 418. Purlin 418 includes
a major side or upright wall 420 with a lower or mounting wall 422
extending horizontally at a right angle to upright wall 420. An
upright flange 424 is optionally formed at the outer edge of
mounting wall 422 to add stiffness or additional lateral support to
purlin 418. Upright wall 420, mounting wall 422, and flange 424
extend longitudinally the entire length of purlin 418. The lower
surface of mounting wall 422 is designed to be mounted to and
supported on roof beams, such as cantilever beams 14 in FIG. 1. The
attaching of purlins 418 to the roof beams is described in detail
in one or both of the above cited copending patent applications and
will not be elaborated upon further herein.
[0046] In this specific method and structure, upright wall 420,
mounting wall 422, and flange 424 are provided as a unit or a
stand-alone component of purlin 418. A first L-shaped member 430
and a second L-shaped member 432 are also provided as components of
purlin 418. The components are then assembled into purlin 418 by
abutting L-shaped member 430 against upright wall 420 adjacent the
right upper end so that it defines an outwardly extending shelf or
arm 436 and abutting L-shaped member 432 against upright wall 420
adjacent the left upper end so that it defines an outwardly
extending shelf or arm 438. For purposes of this disclosure,
L-shaped members 430 and 432 will be deemed to define horizontally
outwardly opening channels. For purposes of ease of understanding
the pair of elongated L-shaped members 430 and 432 may be
hereinafter referred to as "angle-irons" (although not necessarily
formed of iron or steel) affixed to an upper end of the upright
wall in an upright leg-to-upright leg orientation. Upright wall
420, L-shaped member 430, and L-shaped member 332 are then fixedly
attached together by some convenient means such as spot welding
(preferably), riveting, etc.
[0047] In the use of Purlin 418 of FIG. 6, the purlins are
positioned and affixed on a roof as described above but rather than
sliding roof sections 20 into channels (as described in conjunction
with purlin 118), roof sections 20 are simply placed on the upper
surfaces of each shelf or arm 436 and 438. Roof sections 20 can
then be fixedly engaged to each shelf or arm 436 and 438 by
inserting screws, bolts, etc. from the bottom.
[0048] Turning now to FIG. 7, an end perspective view is
illustrated of another purlin, designated 518. Purlin 518 includes
a major side or upright wall 520 with a lower or mounting wall 522
extending horizontally at a right angle to upright wall 520. An
upright flange 524 is optionally formed at the outer edge of
mounting wall 522 to add stiffness or additional lateral support to
purlin 518. Upright wall 520, mounting wall 522, and flange 524
extend longitudinally the entire length of purlin 518. The lower
surface of mounting wall 522 is designed to be mounted to and
supported on roof beams, such as cantilever beams 14 in FIG. 1. The
attaching of purlins 518 to the roof beams is described in detail
in one or both of the above cited copending patent applications and
will not be elaborated upon further herein.
[0049] In this specific method and structure, upright wall 520,
mounting wall 522, and flange 524 are provided as a unit or a
stand-alone component of purlin 518. A flat strip of sheet metal
530 is formed with a U-shaped, downwardly opening channel 540 in
the mid portion thereof. Channel 540 extends longitudinally the
length of strip 530 and is further formed with transversely
outwardly extending arms 536 and 538. The components are assembled
into purlin 518 by positioning the upper end of upright wall 520 in
the downwardly opening channel 540 and fixing the components
together by some convenient means, such as spot welding
(preferably), riveting, etc. Outwardly extending arms 536 and 538
define outwardly extending horizontal shelves on opposite sides of
upright wall 520 adjacent the upper end. For purposes of this
discussion strip 530 and outwardly extending arms 536 and 538 will
be deemed to define horizontally outwardly opening channels.
[0050] In the use of Purlin 518 of FIG. 7, the purlins are
positioned and affixed on a roof as described above but rather than
sliding roof sections 20 into channels (as described in conjunction
with purlin 118), roof sections 20 are simply placed on the upper
surfaces of each arm 536 and 538 on opposite sides of U-shaped,
downwardly opening channel 540. Roof sections 20 can then be
fixedly engaged to each arm 536 and 538 by inserting screws, bolts,
etc. from the bottom.
[0051] Turning now to FIGS. 8 and 9, another purlin, designated 618
is illustrated. Purlin 618 includes a major side or upright wall
620 with a lower or mounting wall 622 extending horizontally at a
right angle to upright wall 620. An upright flange 624 is
optionally formed at the outer edge of mounting wall 622 to add
stiffness or additional lateral support to purlin 618. Upright wall
620, mounting wall 622, and flange 624 extend longitudinally the
entire length of purlin 618. The lower surface of mounting wall 622
is designed to be mounted to and supported on roof beams, such as
cantilever beams 14 in FIG. 1. The attaching of purlins 618 to the
roof beams is described in detail in one or both of the above cited
copending patent applications and will not be elaborated upon
further herein.
[0052] In this specific method and structure, the material forming
upright wall 620 continues and is bent into a first U-shaped
channel member 630 and a second U-shaped channel member 632.
U-shaped channel 630 is defined by a lower horizontal wall 634,
extending at approximately a ninety degree angle to the upper end
of upright wall 620, a vertical wall 635 extending upwardly from
horizontal wall 634, and a horizontal wall 636 extending parallel
to and spaced upwardly from horizontal wall 634. U-shaped channel
member 632 is defined by horizontal wall 636, which forms a lower
wall, a vertical wall 637 extending upwardly from horizontal wall
636, and a horizontal wall 638 extending parallel to and spaced
upwardly from horizontal wall 636. Here it should be specifically
noted that all of the walls and components of purlin 618 are most
conveniently formed from a single piece of sheet metal and can be
bent into the shape illustrated or extruded directly in a well
known operation. Thus, the manufacture of purlin 618 is a simple
one step operation. While the sheet metal can vary in thickness and
type, in a preferred embodiment 14 gauge sheet steel is
employed.
[0053] In the use of Purlin 618 of FIGS. 8 and 9, the purlins are
positioned and affixed on a roof as described above and roof
sections 20 are slide lengthwise into channels 630 and 632 (as
described in conjunction with purlin 118). Holes 631 are
illustrated in the vertical walls of channels 630 and 632 which may
be used to secure roof panels 20 therein if desired. It will be
noted that channels 630 and 632 open in opposite directions so that
during assembly of a structure such as structure 10 of FIG. 1 it
will be necessary to alternate purlins 618 so that channels 630 in
adjacent purlins open toward each other and channels 632 in
adjacent purlins open toward each other. It will also be noted that
roof sections 20 in channels 632 are offset upwardly from roof
sections 20 in channels 630. However, roof sections 20 in channels
632 overlap the edges of roof sections 20 in channels 630 so that
there is no loss of integrity.
[0054] Turning now to FIG. 10, an end view of an improved purlin,
designated 700 is designed to be used in the structure of FIG. 1 in
accordance with the present invention. First and foremost it must
be noted that purlin 700 is conveniently formed from a single
elongated strip of metal that extends longitudinally or along a
longitudinal axis at least the desired length of the purlin and
that has a width sufficient to allow the formation of the various
flats and bends parallel to the longitudinal axis as described in
further detail below. As an example, purlin 700 can be formed with
an overall vertical height of 8'' or 10'' and the width of the
strip of metal used will be 19.00'' and 21.00'', respectively.
Also, preferably, the strip of metal will be galvanized steel with
a thickness of 0.050'' to 0.068'' to provide the desired
workability and the required strength.
[0055] Referring more specifically to FIG. 10, the various flat
portions and bends are described in more detail but not necessarily
in the steps in which they are formed. Also, because all of the
bends and flats are parallel with the longitudinal axis of the
strip of metal each bend and flat is integrally attached to
adjacent bends and/or flats. Purlin 700 includes a major side or
upright wall 720 with a lower or mounting wall 722 extending
horizontally at a right angle to upright wall 720. An upright
flange 724 is optionally formed at the outer edge of mounting wall
722 to add stiffness or additional lateral support to purlin 700.
Upright wall 720, mounting wall 722, and flange 724 extend
longitudinally the entire length of purlin 700. The lower surface
of mounting wall 722 is designed to be mounted to and supported on
roof beams, such as cantilever beams 14 in FIG. 1. The attaching of
purlins 700 to the roof beams is described in detail in one or both
of the above cited copending patent applications and will not be
elaborated upon further herein.
[0056] A cross piece 730 is formed integrally in the strip of metal
composing purlin 700 and at the upper end of purlin 700. Cross
piece 730 extends horizontally outwardly in opposite directions
from a plane containing upright wall 720 to form a T-shape with the
plane of upright wall 720. A portion of cross piece 730 extends
upwardly in FIG. 10 and is designated 730a. A portion of cross
piece 730 extends downwardly in FIG. 10 and is designated 730b. To
form portions 730a and 730b the strip of metal composing purlin 700
is bent first approximately 90.degree. away from the plane of
upright wall 720 for approximately 0.75'' and then reversed or bent
approximately 180.degree. back toward the plane of upright wall
720. The strip of metal continues across the top, past the plane of
upright wall 720, and approximately 0.75'' away from the plane of
upright wall 720 in the opposite direction to define portion 730b.
The upper edge of the strip of metal is bent downwardly and back
approximately 180.degree. toward the plane of upright wall 720, as
a lower part of portion 730b. Thus, both portions 730a and 730b
include bent double layers of the metal strip to provide the
necessary strength to hold solar panels fixedly in place.
[0057] In a similar fashion a cross piece 732 is formed integrally
with upright wall 720 and spaced downwardly from cross piece 730 a
distance of approximately 2.00''. Because cross piece 732 is formed
in the strip of metal composing purlin 700 between mounting wall
722 and cross piece 730, the upright wall could be considered to be
constructed in two portions. However, for convenience of
understanding the portion integrally formed between mounting wall
722 and cross piece 732 is hereinafter referred to and designated
as upright wall 720, with the portion extending between first cross
piece 730 and second cross piece 732 simply being referred to as
integrally connecting first cross piece 730 and second cross piece
732.
[0058] Cross piece 732 extends horizontally outwardly in opposite
directions from upright wall 720 to form a T-shape with upright
wall 720. A portion of cross piece 732 extending upwardly in FIG.
10 is designated 732a and a portion of cross piece 732 extending
downwardly in FIG. 10 is designated 732b. In the example
illustrated, to form portion 732b, the strip of metal composing
purlin 700 is bent first approximately 90.degree. away from the
plane of upright wall 720 for approximately 1.25'' and then
reversed or bent approximately 180.degree. back toward the plane of
upright wall 720. The strip of metal continues across the top of
portion 732b, past the plane of upright wall 720, and approximately
1.25'' away from the plane of upright wall 720 in the opposite
direction to define portion 732a. In this example, to make portions
732a and 732b lie approximately in a common plane (i.e. produce a
flat roof) the strip of metal jogs slightly at approximately the
plane of upright wall 720 as it proceeds from portion 732b to
portion 732a. At approximately 1.25'' away from the plane of
upright wall 720 the strip of metal is bent approximately
180.degree. back toward the plane where it is bent approximately
90.degree. to continue upwardly toward cross piece 730 so that both
portions 732a and 732b include bent double layers of the metal
strip to provide the necessary strength to hold solar panels
fixedly in place. It will be understood that the bent double layers
of portions 730a, 730b, 732a, and 732b provide a very rigid support
for solar panels or roof portions that will hold the solar panels
rigidly in place throughout the occurrence of virtually any
external force (e.g. wind, snow, rain, etc.).
[0059] Here it must be specifically noted that upright wall 720
holds the entire roof structure spaced from the roof beams and,
therefore, must be a continuous or complete wall with no cutouts,
panels or other openings formed therein that would weaken the
vertical strength of the purlin as it extends in a horizontal
direction. It will be understood that because purlin 700 extends
horizontally in a flat roof structure, all of the pressure and
forces encountered by a normal roof (including gravity) produce a
vertical pressure or force perpendicular to the length or
longitudinal direction of purlin 700, i.e. in the plane of upright
wall 720 and perpendicular to its length.
[0060] It will be understood that the above bends and measurements
describe a preferred embodiment and different measurements can be
incorporated for different or special applications. Further, the
specific measurements described provide the optimum strength and
solar panel holding or fixing capabilities without using an undue
amount of material or interfering with the operation of the solar
panels. Also, it is believed that the double layer construction of
the portions 730a, 730b, 732a, and 732b are required to provide the
strength necessary to hold solar panels in a flat roof structure
and withstand vertical pressures under any conditions.
[0061] As can be seen, portions 730a and 732a cooperate to form a
longitudinally extending channel 736 therebetween. Similarly,
portions 730b and 732b cooperate to form a second longitudinally
extending channel 738 therebetween positioned in an opposed
direction with channel 736. It will be understood that channel 736,
along with a facing channel in the next adjacent purlin form a
complete track for receiving and holding opposed edges of a solar
panel or flat roof section. Similarly, channel 738, along with a
facing channel in the next adjacent purlin, form a complete track
for receiving and holding opposed edges of an adjacent solar panel
or flat roof section. Thus, solar panels or flat roof sections are
quickly and easily attached by simply sliding them longitudinally
into cooperating channels in adjacent purlins. The solar panels or
flat roof sections can be fixed in place by optionally inserting
attachment devices such as screws, bolts, etc. upwardly through the
proper portion 732a or 732b supporting the solar panel or flat roof
section.
[0062] Turning now to FIG. 11, an end view is illustrated of an end
cap purlin 750 used in conjunction with purlin 700 of FIG. 10 in a
complete roof system, in accordance with the present invention. As
described above in conjunction with FIG. 1, a plurality of purlins
18 are affixed to upper surfaces of beams 14 and positioned to
extend longitudinally in parallel spaced apart relationship to
substantially define the roof area. When purlins 18 are replaced
with purlins 700 of FIG. 10, the outside purlins (i.e. upper and
lower edges of flat, cantilevered multi-column structure 10) are
preferably an end cap purlin 750 as illustrated in FIG. 11 to form
a complete roof system.
[0063] End cap purlin 750 is constructed similar to purlin 700 with
a major side or upright wall 751 with a lower or mounting wall 752
extending horizontally at a right angle to upright wall 751. An
upright flange 754 is optionally formed at the outer edge of
mounting wall 752 to add stiffness or additional lateral support to
purlin 750. Upright wall 751, mounting wall 752, and flange 754
extend longitudinally the entire length of purlin 750. The lower
surface of mounting wall 752 is designed to be mounted to and
supported on roof beams, such as cantilever beams 14 in FIG. 1.
[0064] The difference between end cap purlin 750 and purlin 700 is
that a pair of channel defining portions 753 and 754 are formed
adjacent the upper end of upright wall 751 extending away from the
plane of upright wall 751 only in a direction parallel to and
overlying mounting wall 752. Thus, in a finished roof system using
end cap purlins 750 and purlins 700 no unsightly channels are left
empty and extending outwardly from the edges of the roof. In this
preferred embodiment, portions 753 and 754 defining a channel 756
are formed with the bent double layer construction in a fashion
similar to that described in conjunction with the formation of
channel 736 in FIG. 10.
[0065] Thus, it will be understood that the new and improved
purlins for use in roof structures easily position and mount solar
panels or other flat roof sections with substantially reduced
effort and error. The new and improved purlins for use in flat roof
structures are manufactured from any convenient metal such as
aluminum, sheet steel, etc. The new and improved purlins include
the bent double layer construction for portions required to hold
solar panels in place under any conditions and the purlins further
include continuous (i.e. no breaks or openings) upright walls that
are sufficiently strong to support a roof under substantially any
conditions. Also, a complete roof system is described in which end
cap purlins are included to provide a finished edge of the roof.
Further, the new and improved purlins for use in flat roof
structures can be easily bolted to roof beams at the site and do
not require any on-site welding or any special tools.
[0066] Various changes and modifications to the embodiment herein
chosen for purposes of illustration will readily occur to those
skilled in the art. To the extent that such modifications and
variations do not depart from the spirit of the invention, they are
intended to be included within the scope thereof which is assessed
only by a fair interpretation of the following claims.
[0067] Having fully described the invention in such clear and
concise terms as to enable those skilled in the art to understand
and practice the same, the invention claimed is:
* * * * *