Expansion tank wall mount bracket apparatus and method of use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing expansion tank mounting solutions are not easy to use, cost-effective, or versatile, posing challenges in securely and efficiently supporting water heater expansion tanks in plumbing systems, which can lead to damage and safety risks due to unmanaged thermal expansion pressures.
Innovation Solution
A wall mount bracket apparatus that allows multiple assembly configurations, featuring a wall mount bracket and an L bracket with adjustable straps, enabling secure mounting of one or more expansion tanks in various orientations, including perpendicular, parallel, and separate installations, to accommodate different tank sizes and provide structural support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional fixed mounting bracket is used for expansion tanks, then the installation is simple, but the solution lacks versatility for different tank sizes and orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate modular components: a wall mount bracket, an L bracket, and adjustable straps. These segments can be independently selected and configured based on the specific installation requirements, tank size, and desired orientation, providing versatility without requiring a completely different bracket for each scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
The combination of the wall mount bracket, L bracket, and adjustable straps creates a universal mounting system that can accommodate expansion tanks of various sizes and install them in multiple orientations (perpendicular, parallel, or separate configurations). This multi-functional system replaces the need for multiple specialized brackets.
2Ease of operation
If existing mounting solutions are used, then the installation process is straightforward, but they are not cost-effective or easy to use
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable straps provide dynamic adaptability, allowing the installer to easily adjust the mounting configuration to fit different tank sizes and positions. This dynamic adjustment capability makes the system easy to use while accommodating various installation scenarios without requiring complex custom fabrication.
Solution Approach 2:
The L bracket serves as an intermediary component that connects the wall mount bracket to the expansion tank, facilitating easy installation in perpendicular orientations. This intermediate element simplifies the mounting process for different configurations without adding significant complexity to the overall system.
3Reliability
If multiple expansion tanks need to be supported, then the plumbing system can be adequately protected, but a single bracket cannot accommodate multiple tanks
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system uses separate, independent bracket units (wall mount bracket and L bracket) that can be individually installed for each expansion tank. This segmentation allows multiple tanks to be supported simultaneously, each with its own bracket configuration, ensuring reliable protection while maintaining the flexibility to accommodate different tank sizes and positions.
Data Source
AI summary
An expansion tank wall mount bracket apparatus capable of being mounted in multiple assembly configurations and supporting multiple expansion tanks.