Universal Duct Saddle Mounting for Deformation-Resistant Support
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing duct mounting systems are often not specifically designed for the ducts they support, leading to inefficient installation processes, inadequate support, and potential duct deformation or collapse, especially in varied installation environments.
Innovation Solution
A duct mounting system comprising a support saddle with retaining straps and spring connectors that can accommodate different duct shapes and sizes, along with adjustable support legs and stabilizer legs, providing adaptable and secure mounting solutions without the need for custom fabrication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If standard hardware items (u-channel supports, angles, straps, clips) are used for duct mounting, then the mounting system can be assembled from available components, but the ductwork may be inadequately supported leading to deformation or collapse
Solution Approach 1:
The saddle is designed as a universal support component that can accommodate multiple duct shapes (circular, rectangular, square) and sizes through adjustable features such as movable ears and configurable fastening mechanisms. This single multi-functional component replaces the need for multiple specialized hardware items, providing reliable support while simplifying the mounting system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mounting elements are individually modified or hand-crafted on the job site, then the ductwork can be customized to fit specific installation requirements, but the installation process becomes time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into modular components including the saddle, ears, fasteners, and support legs that can be independently configured and assembled. This segmentation allows the system to be adapted to different duct configurations through simple assembly variations rather than custom fabrication, significantly improving installation efficiency while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The saddle incorporates movable and adjustable elements such as repositionable ears and configurable fastening mechanisms that allow the mounting system to be dynamically adapted to different duct shapes and sizes during installation, eliminating the need for pre-customization while maintaining high adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If ductwork is mounted in varied environments (outdoors, overhead spaces, between walls), then the system can accommodate different installation locations, but unique mounting considerations for each environment increase system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The saddle and support leg assembly is designed as a universal mounting system that can be configured for various installation environments through simple assembly variations. The same basic components can be arranged to provide outdoor mounting, overhead suspension, wall-between installations, and other configurations, eliminating the need for environment-specific custom hardware while maintaining full adaptability.
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
The system ensures proper support and protection of ducts in various environments, preventing deformation and ensuring airflow, while allowing for quick and efficient installation without the need for custom hardware selection or fabrication.
Implementation Method 1
spring connectors that can accommodate different duct shapes and sizes
Data Source
AI summary
A duct mounting system. The system includes a support saddle having a duct surface shaped to accommodate and support a duct, a first support ear defined in a first extremity of the support saddle and a second support ear defined in a second extremity of the support saddle, a retaining strap connectable between the first and second support ears, a first support leg having an extremity connectable to an external structure, and a first saddle connector that couples the first support leg to the first support ear. The support saddle has a stiffening stem. The retaining strap is shaped to clamp a duct onto the duct surface.