Angled Threaded Rod Coupling for Misaligned Support Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for using threaded rods in construction, particularly when the mounted support and connection point are misaligned, require heating and bending, which is time-consuming, skill-dependent, and can compromise the rod's integrity, and do not efficiently accommodate multiple connections or seismic restraints.
Innovation Solution
An angled coupling system with internally threaded receptacles at 45-degree angles, allowing multiple threaded rods to be connected without bending, providing adjustable alignment and support for misaligned setups and seismic restraints, and potentially used in storm-pipe restraints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If threaded rod is bent to connect misaligned mounted support and connection point, then alignment is achieved, but time consumption and skill requirement increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an angled coupling as an intermediary component between the mounted support and connection point. This coupling has internally threaded receptacles at different angles, allowing threaded rods to connect without bending. The intermediary absorbs the misalignment issue, eliminating the need for time-consuming heating and bending operations while maintaining proper alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention segments the connection system into separate components: the mounted support, the angled coupling, and the threaded rod. By dividing the rigid straight-rod connection into modular segments, the system can accommodate misalignment through the angled coupling's multi-directional receptacles, avoiding the need to bend the threaded rod itself.
2Ease of operation
If threaded rod is heated and bent, then misalignment is corrected, but structural integrity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The angled coupling serves as a mediator that resolves misalignment without subjecting the threaded rod to thermal stress or mechanical deformation. The coupling's internally threaded receptacles are pre-formed at specific angles, allowing the threaded rod to maintain its original straight configuration and structural integrity while achieving proper alignment through the coupling's geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of bending the threaded rod to achieve alignment, the invention inverts the approach by using an angled coupling with pre-formed receptacles at various angles. The alignment is achieved not by deforming the rod, but by selecting and orienting the coupling's receptacles to match the misalignment, thereby preserving the rod's structural integrity.
3Ease of manufacture
If single threaded rod is used for support, then installation is simple, but adaptability to misaligned configurations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The angled coupling is designed with multiple internally threaded receptacles at different angles (e.g., 45 degrees, 90 degrees) on a single body. This universal design allows the same coupling component to accommodate various misalignment scenarios and connection configurations, providing adaptability without requiring multiple specialized components or complex assembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling provides dynamic adaptability by offering multiple receptacle orientations that can be selected based on the specific misalignment conditions. The installer can choose the appropriate receptacle angle to match the configuration requirements, allowing the system to adapt to different scenarios while maintaining simple installation procedures.
4Ease of operation
If threaded rod is bent multiple times, then connection is achieved, but skill requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The angled coupling acts as a mediator that eliminates the need for skilled bending operations. The coupling's pre-formed angled receptacles provide the necessary geometric complexity, allowing unskilled workers to simply thread the rod into the appropriate receptacle without requiring expertise in heating, bending, and angle calculation.
Solution Approach 2:
By segmenting the alignment function into the angled coupling component, the invention transfers the geometric complexity from the installation process to the manufactured component. The coupling embodies the angular adjustments in its structure, freeing the installation process from skill requirements while maintaining connection capability.
Data Source
AI summary
Angled coupling including main pass-through coupler to allow first threaded rod to pass therethrough and second coupling extending at angle therefrom to receive second threaded rod. Angled coupling can be used for multiple purposes including, but not limited to, adjusting location of threaded rod, seismic restraints, storm surge restraints and/or providing additional mounting points for support members. Main coupler is configured to be secured to any location on first threaded rod without requiring it to be screwed onto first threaded rod. Main coupler may include first half and second half each traversing length thereof, that can be secured together at desired location on first threaded rod. Main coupler may include upper section having first approximately half of body thereof and corresponding threads and lower section having second approximately half of body (opposite first half) and corresponding threads. Angled coupling is made of high strength material (e.g., steel, cast iron, composites).