Ceiling Fan Support Tool With Ball Joint for Hands-Free Wiring
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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 access requires ladders or elevated walkways, and there is a need for a tool that can support the fan without human intervention.
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, providing space for wire connections and allowing hands-free operation for the installer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a second person is used to hold the fan assembly, then the installation can be completed, but the complexity of the installation process increases and requires additional personnel
Solution Approach 1:
A support tool acts as an intermediary device between the ceiling bracket and the fan assembly. The support tool includes a ball-and-socket joint mechanism that temporarily holds the fan assembly in place, allowing the installer to connect wires without needing a second person to hold the assembly. This intermediary tool resolves the contradiction by providing mechanical support while maintaining simple installation procedures.
2Productivity
If the fan assembly is held at ceiling height, then the installation can proceed, but the physical fatigue of the installer increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support tool provides counterbalancing support to offset the weight of the fan assembly (15-25 lbs). By mounting the support tool to the ceiling bracket, the assembly weight is transferred to the ceiling structure rather than being borne by the installer's arms. This eliminates physical fatigue while maintaining installation efficiency.
3Reliability
If the fan assembly is securely mounted to the ceiling bracket, then the installation is stable, but the installer cannot access the assembly for wire connections
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting process is segmented into distinct phases: temporary support phase and permanent mounting phase. During the temporary support phase, the support tool holds the fan assembly at a distance from the ceiling bracket, providing secure support while allowing full accessibility for wire connections. After wiring is complete, the assembly is permanently mounted to the bracket, eliminating the need for continued accessibility.
4Ease of manufacture
If a ladder or elevated walkway is used to access the ceiling, then the fan can be installed, but the installation requires additional equipment and setup
Solution Approach 1:
The support tool is designed to be self-supporting once mounted to the ceiling bracket. The ball-and-socket joint mechanism automatically secures the fan assembly without requiring additional equipment like ladders or elevated walkways. The tool serves itself by providing the necessary support structure, eliminating the need for external access equipment and simplifying the overall installation setup.
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 assemblies by securely holding the fan in place, reducing installer fatigue and eliminating the need for a second person, while allowing easy access for wiring and other pre-mounting tasks without obstructing vision or mobility.
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.