Adjustable Ceiling Fan Brace With Conductor Storage for Engineered Joists
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ceiling fan installation methods face challenges in securely engaging with engineered joists, particularly in finished ceilings, where standard solutions fail to provide adequate support and storage for electrical conductors.
Innovation Solution
A ceiling fan brace assembly with adjustable segments and a removable case that includes internal cavities for conductor storage, allowing for secure engagement with ceiling joists and accommodating various joist configurations, while providing additional storage volume for electrical components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a standard ceiling fan installation method is used, then the installation process is simple, but it fails to provide adequate support and storage for electrical conductors when engaging with engineered joists
Solution Approach 1:
The brace is divided into multiple segments that can be adjusted relative to each other, allowing the brace to adapt to different joist configurations while maintaining secure engagement. This segmentation enables the device to provide adequate support for engineered joists without requiring a completely complex installation system.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical conductors are stored within internal cavities of the case, which is itself mounted on the adjustable brace. This nested arrangement provides storage for electrical components while maintaining a compact structure that doesn't excessively increase overall device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable brace is used to engage engineered joists, then compatibility with various joist configurations is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The brace incorporates adjustable segments that can be moved and repositioned to accommodate different joist spacings and configurations. This dynamic adjustability allows the same device to work with various engineered joist types without requiring multiple different brace designs, thereby improving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable brace is designed to engage with multiple types of engineered joists and ceiling configurations, making it a universal solution that replaces the need for multiple specialized installation devices. This multi-functionality improves adaptability while keeping the overall device structure relatively streamlined.
3Quantity of substance
If internal cavities are added to store electrical conductors, then storage volume for electrical components is improved, but the case complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The internal cavities for storing electrical conductors are integrated into the case structure itself, combining the storage function with the mounting housing. This merging of functions provides adequate conductor storage capacity while avoiding the need for separate storage components that would increase overall case complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A ceiling fan brace includes a brace having a first segment and a second segment moveable relative to the first segment. A case is removably coupled to the brace. The case has a lower wall, an opening positioned opposite the lower wall, an inner wall extending from the lower wall away from the opening, and an internal cavity at least partially defined by the inner wall. The internal cavity is sized to receive at least one electrical conductor. A passage extends adjacent to the inner wall to receive the brace.