Adjustable Rod Attachment for Seismic Hanging Supports
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hanging support systems for structures, particularly in seismic bracing systems, face challenges in securely attaching and adjusting the angle of hanging components like fire sprinkler branch lines, pipes, and conduits, which can lead to damage during seismic events.
Innovation Solution
A structure attachment for a hanging support system comprising an attachment body with a structure fastener for securing to a structural support and a rod fastener that is selectively movable to adjust the angle between the threaded opening and the structure fastener, allowing for secure attachment and adjustable positioning of hanging components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-angle structure attachment is used, then the installation process is simple, but the system lacks adaptability to different seismic conditions and component configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The structure attachment employs a movable rod fastener that can be selectively repositioned along the attachment body, transforming a static fixed-angle connection into a dynamic adjustable-angle connection. This allows the system to adapt to different seismic conditions and component configurations while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment body is divided into distinct functional segments including the rod fastener, structure fastener, and adjustment mechanism. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component and enables the rod fastener to be moved to different positions along the attachment body to achieve various angles.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a non-adjustable hanging support system is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the system cannot accommodate different component sizes and configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The structure attachment is designed with universal applicability through the adjustable rod fastener that can accommodate different component sizes, configurations, and seismic requirements. A single attachment design serves multiple functions by allowing the rod fastener to be positioned at different locations to create various connection angles.
3Ease of operation
If rigid fixed-angle connections are used in seismic bracing, then the structural strength is maximized, but the system cannot accommodate movement and adjustment during seismic events
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from a rigid fixed-angle design to a dynamic adjustable-angle design where the rod fastener can be repositioned. This maintains structural strength through proper mechanical fastening while enabling adjustment during installation to optimize seismic resistance for different scenarios.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a secure and adjustable attachment system for hanging components, preventing damage during seismic events and allowing for versatile use in different hanger systems without requiring a seismic bracing system.
Implementation Method 1
The rod fastener (16) is coupled to the attachment body (12) and defines at least one threaded opening (62A, 62B) configured to mate with a threaded rod (22)
Data Source
AI summary
A structure attachment for a hanging support system includes an attachment body and a structure fastener coupled to the attachment body and configured to fasten the structure attachment to a structural support. A rod fastener is coupled to the attachment body and defines at least one threaded opening configured to mate with a threaded rod. The rod fastener is selectively movable relative to the structure fastener to adjust an angle between an axis of the threaded opening and a longitudinal axis of the structure fastener.