False Ceiling Fire Detector Axial Mounting Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ambient condition detectors installed in false ceilings are inconvenient, expensive, and create maintenance problems due to the need for recessed mounting and inspection access, which is not cost-effective and affects aesthetics.

Innovation Solution

An apparatus that axially couples two detectors, allowing one to be installed on a false ceiling and the other above it, with adjustable spacing and standard mounting bases for easy removal and inspection, eliminating the need for an inspection trap door and special mounts, and enabling wireless or wired communication with an alarm system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Shape

If detectors are recessed into false ceilings for aesthetic purposes and code compliance, then the aesthetic appearance is improved and fire code requirements are met, but maintenance access becomes difficult and inspection costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaesthetic appearanceVSAvoidmaintenance access

Core Design Contradiction:

ShapeVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The detector assembly is segmented into two functional parts: a recessed portion that fits into the false ceiling for aesthetic purposes, and an extendable portion that protrudes above the ceiling to provide maintenance access. This segmentation allows each part to fulfill its specific function without compromising the other.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The detector assembly utilizes a nested structure where the recessed portion is inserted into the false ceiling cavity, and the extendable portion is stored within or alongside the recessed portion. When maintenance is needed, the extendable portion can be pulled out or extended to provide access to the detector elements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Ease of repair

If inspection trap doors are installed to access recessed detectors, then maintenance access is improved, but the aesthetic appearance is degraded and installation costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinspection accessVSAvoidaesthetic appearance

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of repairVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The inspection and maintenance functionality is extracted from the traditional trap door approach and integrated directly into the detector assembly itself. The detector housing includes built-in mechanisms for accessing the detector elements, eliminating the need for separate trap doors that would compromise ceiling aesthetics.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Adaptability or versatility

If special double wall base mounts are used for detectors above false ceilings, then mounting capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemounting capabilityVSAvoidmounting structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The detector assembly employs a universal mounting base that can be installed in both recessed and surface-mounted configurations. The same base structure serves multiple functions: providing structural support, enabling ceiling attachment, and facilitating detector element installation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for specialized double wall base mounts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS7786888B2False ceiling fire detector assembly

Publication Date: 2010.08.31 LIFE SAFETY DISTRIBUTION

AI summary

A mounting apparatus usable with ambient condition detectors includes first and second mounting bases spaced apart axially along a common center line. Respective detectors can be coupled to the bases as required in a specific installation.