Embedded-Magnet Strut Channel Fitting for Hands-Free Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing strut channel fittings require manual alignment and securing with bolts, making the assembly process time-consuming and difficult due to the need for precise alignment before tightening.
Innovation Solution
Magnetic strut channel fittings with embedded magnets that allow for magnetic adherence to strut channels, enabling faster and easier installation by allowing both hands to be used during assembly and providing stability with an interference fit or adhesive.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual alignment and bolt securing is used for strut channel fittings, then the connection strength is sufficient, but the assembly time and operational difficulty increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical alignment and bolt tightening system with a magnetic field-based holding system. Magnets embedded in the fitting automatically attract and hold the fitting against the strut channel, eliminating the need for manual alignment and temporary holding, thereby significantly reducing assembly time and operational difficulty
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic fitting performs self-alignment and self-holding through magnetic attraction between the magnets in the fitting and the ferromagnetic strut channel. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for operator intervention to maintain alignment during assembly, improving ease of operation while reducing assembly time
2Manufacturing precision
If manual holding is used during assembly, then no additional components are needed, but the alignment precision and assembly efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes manual mechanical holding with an automatic magnetic holding system. The magnetic field provides consistent, uniform holding force that ensures precise alignment between the fitting and strut channel without requiring operator skill or attention, thereby improving both alignment precision and assembly efficiency
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
Facilitates quicker and more efficient assembly of strut channels by allowing magnetic adherence, reducing the time and effort required for alignment and securing, while maintaining stability under axial loads.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of magnets embedded into at least one of the first and second plates, wherein the plurality of magnets allow the magnetic strut channel fitting to be magnetically adhered to a strut channel
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic strut channel fitting includes first and second plates connected to each other and a plurality of magnets embedded into at least one of the first and second plates. According to another embodiment of the present invention, a magnetic strut channel fitting includes a substantially flat plate and a plurality of magnets embedded into the plate. According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, a magnetic strut channel fitting includes a substantially flat connecting plate, first and second arm members, each of the first and second arm members having a vertical plate and a horizontal plate, and a plurality of magnets, the plurality of magnets embedded into the connecting plate to allow the magnetic strut channel fitting to be magnetically adhere to a strut channel. The plurality of magnets allow the magnetic strut channel fitting to be magnetically adhered to a strut channel.