Ceiling Fan Support Tool With Ball Joint for Hands-Free Wiring
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Installing a ceiling fan typically requires the help of a second person to hold the fan assembly in place while connecting electrical wires, which can be tiring and inconvenient, especially when additional tools or parts are needed, as it necessitates frequent ladder use.
Innovation Solution
A ceiling mount support tool with a ball-and-socket joint mechanism that securely holds the fan assembly to the ceiling, allowing a single person to install the fan without assistance, with a shaft of variable length to facilitate easy wire connections and pre-mounting tasks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a second person holds the fan assembly while connecting wires, then the installation can be completed, but it requires additional labor and equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a support tool as an intermediary device between the ceiling bracket and the fan assembly. This tool temporarily holds the fan assembly in place, allowing a single person to connect wires without needing a second person to hold the assembly. The support tool acts as a mediator that frees the installer's hands while maintaining secure positioning.
2Ease of operation
If a person holds the fan assembly at ceiling height, then the fan can be installed, but the person experiences physical fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The support tool serves as a mediator that assumes the burden of holding the fan assembly, transferring the support function from the human installer to a mechanical device. This eliminates the need for the installer to physically support the assembly's weight, thereby preventing fatigue while enabling hands-free wire connection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional tools or parts are needed during installation, then the installation can be completed, but frequent ladder use is required
Solution Approach 1:
The support tool acts as a stable intermediary platform that secures the fan assembly in a fixed position. This stability allows the installer to safely descend the ladder to retrieve additional tools or parts without risking the fan assembly falling or shifting, thereby reducing time loss while maintaining adaptability.
4Reliability
If the fan assembly is securely held in place, then safety is improved, but the installer needs space to work
Solution Approach 1:
The support tool is designed as a segmented structure with a first end that attaches to the ceiling bracket and a second end that holds the fan assembly. This segmentation creates distinct functional zones: the attachment zone ensures secure mounting to the ceiling, while the distal zone provides adequate workspace around the fan assembly for wire connection activities.
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 single-person installation of ceiling fans and other electrical devices by securely supporting the assembly, freeing both hands for wiring and other tasks, and allowing safe descent without obstructing vision or ability to complete tasks.
Implementation Method 1
A ceiling mount support tool with a ball-and-socket joint mechanism that securely holds the fan assembly to the ceiling
Data Source
AI summary
A ceiling mount support tool for temporarily mounting an electrical device, such as a ceiling fan to a ceiling bracket. The ceiling mount support tool has a shaft, a ball joint at the proximal end of the shaft, and a socket at the distal end of the shaft. The ceiling mount support tool is mounted to a ceiling flange, and the ceiling fan is mounted to the ceiling mount support tool. Thereafter, electrical wires can be connected, and then the ceiling fan and the ceiling mount support tool can be removed. The ceiling fan with the wires connected can then be mounted to the ceiling bracket.