Adjustable Clip Assembly for Metal Framing Inventory Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clip designs for metal framing in non-residential construction require multiple types and sizes, leading to complex inventory management, increased costs, and cumbersome transportation due to improper installation issues and lack of adjustability.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable rigid clip assembly comprising an anchor plate, a connector plate, and a slide plate with a juncture angle and tilt angle, featuring locks and tabs for secure alignment and easy installation, allowing for a single adjustable clip to replace multiple non-adjustable ones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple non-adjustable clip designs are used to ensure proper installation and functionality, then installation reliability is improved, but device complexity and inventory management complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The clip is designed with adjustable features including slots in the first plate, a movable second plate with locking mechanism, and configurable fastener positions that allow a single clip design to perform multiple functions and accommodate various installation scenarios, replacing the need for multiple specialized clip types
Solution Approach 2:
The clip incorporates dynamic elements such as the movable second plate that can slide along the first plate, adjustable fasteners that can be repositioned within slots, and a locking mechanism that transitions between locked and unlocked states, enabling the same clip to adapt to different installation requirements
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of clips are stocked and transported in separate containers, then adaptability to different applications is improved, but loss of time and productivity decrease due to cumbersome haulage and management
Solution Approach 1:
A single adjustable clip design can be used across multiple application types and configurations, eliminating the need to stock and transport multiple different clip varieties, thereby reducing material handling time and improving site productivity
3Strength
If shoulder screws are used to secure the clip, then connection strength is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to the need for precise alignment and installer dexterity
Solution Approach 1:
The clip design incorporates pre-configured slots and alignment features that guide the fasteners into proper positions before final tightening, performing the alignment action in advance and eliminating the need for precise manual alignment during installation
Solution Approach 2:
The slot and fastener configuration enables the clip to self-align during installation, with the geometry of the components guiding proper positioning automatically, reducing dependence on installer skill and dexterity
Data Source
AI summary
It is described herein an adjustable rigid clip assembly comprising an anchor plate joined with a connector plate and a slide plate. The anchor plate is joined with the connector plate at a juncture having a juncture angle between the anchor plate and the connector plate in a range of between 0° and less than 180°. The connector plate comprises at least one connector plate slot and at least one connector plate lock. The slide plate may comprise at least one slide plate lock. The at least one slide plate lock may be engaged with the at least one connector plate lock. The slide plate may further comprise at least one slide plate tab passing from the slide plate through the at least one connector plate slot.