Cast-In-Place Anchor Sleeve for Snap-In X-Shape Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Cast in place anchors are inefficient to assemble and store in their X-shaped configuration, requiring time-consuming threading and bulkier storage, which complicates on-site assembly and shipping.

Innovation Solution

A cast in place anchor assembly featuring a connection sleeve with an internally threaded portion and a flexible locking mechanism that securely connects the threaded rod to the suspension plate via a snap-in mechanism, allowing for easy assembly and storage as separate elongate members.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the threaded rod and suspension plate are assembled into an X-shaped configuration before storage and shipment, then the anchor is ready for installation and requires no assembly time on site, but the assembly becomes bulky and occupies more storage space

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly readinessVSAvoidstorage volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The anchor assembly is divided into separate segments (threaded rod and suspension plate) that can be stored independently in compact forms. These segments are designed to be easily joined on-site through a simple snap-in mechanism, eliminating the need for pre-assembly while maintaining installation readiness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Volume of moving object

If the threaded rod and suspension plate are stored separately as elongate members, then storage efficiency improves and space is reduced, but assembly time increases due to the threading process

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage volumeVSAvoidassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The complex threading operation is extracted and replaced by a simplified connection mechanism. The connection sleeve with its snap-in feature allows the threaded rod to be quickly inserted into the suspension plate without requiring threading tools or skills, dramatically reducing assembly time while maintaining separate storage benefits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

A connection sleeve is introduced as an intermediary component between the threaded rod and suspension plate. This sleeve features an internal threading that receives the threaded rod and an external locking portion that snaps into the suspension plate, mediating the connection process to eliminate time-consuming threading operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If traditional threading connection is used to join the threaded rod to the suspension plate, then a secure connection is achieved, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection securityVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection mechanism transitions from a static threading process to a dynamic snap-in action. The flexible locking member in the connection sleeve deforms during insertion and then springs back to lock the threaded rod securely to the suspension plate, providing both security and simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The connection method changes from threaded engagement to snap-fit engagement. The flexible locking member changes its physical state during insertion (flexing to pass through the opening, then springing back to lock), providing a secure connection through parameter change rather than threading.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Enables efficient on-site assembly of the X-shaped anchor configuration with reduced storage bulk, saving time and space by allowing secure snap-in connection of the threaded rod to the suspension plate, facilitating easier handling and installation.

Implementation Method 1

The flexible securement portion may have a flexible locking member which has a first radius which is larger than the sleeve opening and which flexes to a smaller radius during insertion of the connection sleeve into the sleeve opening and which flexes back to a size larger than the sleeve opening upon a complete insertion to lock the connection sleeve to the suspension plate.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11655629B2Space saving sleeve for a cast in place anchor
Publication Date: 2023.05.23 BLACK & DECKER CORP
  • US11655629B2 patent drawing
  • US11655629B2 patent drawing
  • US11655629B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A connection sleeve for a cast-in-place anchor. The cast-in-place anchor including a suspension plate having a threaded opening. The cast-in-place anchor also including an externally threaded rod with a head. The threaded rod threadably connected to the suspension plate so that the rod and plate are perpendicular. A sleeve between the rod and plate allows the rod to be securely connected to the plate by simply urging the rod axially toward and into the sleeve to securely lock with and engage with the plate. The assembly resulting in an X shaped cast-in-place anchor assembly.