Adjustable Clamp-Based Duct Support for Single-Worker Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of ductwork is burdensome and inefficient due to the weight and bulk of ductwork, requiring multiple workers for support, which increases costs and reduces construction efficiency, and existing duct support systems are either labor-intensive or time-consuming to set up.
Innovation Solution
A duct support device with a clamp assembly and adjustable arm members that can be securely affixed to a support structure, allowing for customizable angle and position adjustments to support ductwork with minimal manpower, featuring a channel with adjustable width and locking mechanisms for secure retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple workers are used to support ductwork during installation, then the ductwork can be properly supported and prevented from damage, but the installation cost increases and construction efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a duct support device as an intermediary tool between the workers and the ductwork. This device includes a clamp assembly that attaches to the building frame and arm members that extend to support the ductwork, allowing a single worker to install ductwork without needing multiple workers for physical support
2Reliability
If support cables or chains are used to stabilize ductwork, then additional support is provided, but the setup process becomes time-consuming and requires significant initial effort
Solution Approach 1:
The duct support device is pre-configured with adjustable arm members and locking mechanisms that allow for quick deployment. The clamp assembly is designed to rapidly attach to the building frame, and the arm members can be quickly adjusted to the needed position and locked into place, eliminating the time-consuming setup associated with traditional support cables
Solution Approach 2:
The support device features dynamically adjustable arm members that can be moved and positioned as needed during installation. The adjustable length and angle of the arm members allow the device to adapt to different ductwork positions and sizes, providing flexible support without requiring reconfiguration of fixed support systems
3Device complexity
If a fixed-width clamp assembly is used, then the structure is simple, but the device cannot adapt to different support structure sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly incorporates adjustable components that allow the channel width to be modified. The clamp handles can be moved to different positions along the clamp assembly, and locking mechanisms secure the adjustable components at the desired width, enabling the same device to fit various support structure dimensions
Data Source
AI summary
A duct support device is provided. The device includes a clamp assembly having a channel dimensioned to removably secure to a support structure, wherein a width of the channel is selectively adjustable via actuation of a pair of clamp handles affixed to the clamp assembly. A first arm member is affixed to the clamp assembly at a proximal end of the first arm member. A second arm member is pivotally affixed to a distal end of the first arm member. A third arm member is perpendicularly affixed to a distal end of the second arm member. A brace is affixed to the third arm member parallel to a longitudinal axis of the third arm member, wherein the brace extends along a length of an upper side of the third arm member. In some embodiments, a fourth arm member is perpendicularly affixed to a distal end of the third arm member.