Adjustable Brace Fitting Assembly for Variable Pipe Support Spans
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Solution Overview
Problem
Piping support assemblies with fixed lengths are incompatible with varying distances between piping systems and their supporting structures, making it difficult to accommodate dynamic loads and ensure secure mounting in applications like fire sprinkler and HVAC systems.
Innovation Solution
A fitting assembly with an adjustable fastener system that allows for repositioning relative to the fitting, enabling the length of the assembly to be adjusted by threading or unthreading a fastener, thereby accommodating different distances and dynamic movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-length piping support assembly is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but it cannot accommodate varying distances between piping systems and the supporting structure
Solution Approach 1:
The piping support assembly transitions from a fixed-length design to an adjustable-length design by incorporating a threaded fastener that can be repositioned along the piping system. This dynamic adjustment mechanism allows the support assembly to adapt to varying distances while maintaining structural integrity through the threaded connection system.
Solution Approach 2:
The length parameter of the piping support assembly is made variable through the use of a threaded fastener. By changing the position of the fastener along the piping system, the effective length of the support assembly can be adjusted to match different installation requirements, thereby resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-length piping support assembly is used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but it is incompatible with varying installation distances
Solution Approach 1:
The piping support assembly is divided into separable components including a fitting with a threaded bore and a threaded fastener. This segmentation allows the fastener to be independently positioned and adjusted along the piping system, providing compatibility with varying installation distances while keeping the manufacturing of individual components relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded fastener serves multiple functions: it secures the piping support assembly to the structure and simultaneously enables length adjustment to accommodate varying distances. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple different fixed-length components, simplifying the overall manufacturing approach while enhancing adaptability.
3Reliability
If a fixed-length support assembly is used, then the structure is straightforward, but it cannot accommodate dynamic loads and movements effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded fastener system provides dynamic adjustability that allows the piping support assembly to accommodate movements and dynamic loads. The ability to reposition the fastener enables the system to adapt to seismic events and other dynamic conditions, improving reliability without requiring an overly complex mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable length parameter of the support assembly allows it to respond to dynamic loads and movements. By changing the fastener position, the system can optimize its mechanical properties to accommodate varying load conditions, thereby improving reliability while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A fitting assembly can include a socket fitting comprising an end wall and a substantially cylindrical sidewall extending from the end wall, the end wall and cylindrical sidewall defining a cylindrical interior recess, the cylindrical sidewall defining an open end opposite the end wall allowing access to the cylindrical interior recess, the cylindrical interior recess configured to receive a first end portion of a brace member, a bore formed through the end wall and a hole formed through the cylindrical sidewall; a first fastener engaged with the hole and extending into the cylindrical interior recess, the first fastener configured to couple the brace member to the socket fitting; and a second fastener defining a tail end engaged with the bore, the second fastener repositionable relative to the socket fitting to adjust a length of the fitting assembly, wherein the second fastener is oriented perpendicular to the first fastener.