Hat Channel Adaptor for Sprinkler Support Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fire sprinkler support systems struggle to securely mount sprinkler heads in non-T-bar ceiling structures, as these systems often lack sufficient vertical spacing to accommodate semi-recessed or fully recessed configurations, which are common for fire sprinkler heads.
Innovation Solution
An adaptor is designed to securely attach sprinkler support assemblies to non-T-bar ceiling structures, such as those with hat channel furring or metal studs, by using long and short sides with specific cross-sectional shapes and protrusions to distribute forces and provide necessary vertical spacing for sprinkler head positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a sprinkler support assembly is designed for T-bar ceiling systems, then it can securely mount sprinkler heads in T-bar grids, but it cannot be used in non-T-bar ceiling structures such as hat channel furring or metal studs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an adaptor as an intermediary component that bridges the incompatibility between T-bar designed support assemblies and non-T-bar ceiling structures. The adaptor features an L-shaped cross-section with a first leg for attaching to hat channel furring and a second leg for securing the sprinkler support assembly, thereby enabling universal compatibility without redesigning the entire support system
Solution Approach 2:
The adaptor is designed with universal attachment capabilities for multiple ceiling types including hat channel furring, metal studs, and wood studs. By providing a standardized interface that can accommodate various ceiling structures, the adaptor enables a single sprinkler support assembly design to be universally applied across different building configurations
2Adaptability or versatility
If ceiling beam heights vary in non-T-bar structures, then different ceiling types can be accommodated, but sufficient vertical spacing for semi-recessed or fully recessed sprinkler head configurations cannot be guaranteed
Solution Approach 1:
The adaptor incorporates adjustable positioning mechanisms that allow the vertical spacing between the ceiling structure and sprinkler head to be dynamically adjusted. This enables installers to achieve proper recessed configurations regardless of the fixed ceiling beam height, by adjusting the adaptor's position or extension to provide the necessary vertical clearance
3Ease of operation
If sprinkler heads are mounted in non-T-bar ceilings with limited vertical spacing, then installation is possible, but stable support under high fluid pressure up to 175 psi cannot be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The adaptor is pre-configured with attachment features that securely fasten to the ceiling structure before the sprinkler support assembly is installed. This preliminary anchoring creates a stable foundation that can withstand the high forces generated during sprinkler operation, ensuring reliability is established before pressure is applied
Solution Approach 2:
The adaptor utilizes composite construction combining materials optimized for different functions: attachment surfaces designed for secure fastening to ceiling structures, and support surfaces engineered to distribute and withstand high fluid pressure loads. This composite approach ensures both ease of installation and operational reliability
Data Source
AI summary
An adaptor is provided that is configured to receive a support assembly for mounting a flexible fire sprinkler fitting in a ceiling support structure formed of parallel, spaced beams. The adaptor includes first and second long sides configured to be secured to each beam of an adjacent pair of beams, and first and second short sides configured to be secured to the support assembly. One end of each long side is joined by the first short side, and an opposed end of each long side is joined by the second short side such that the first and second long sides are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the first and second short sides, whereby the adaptor is a generally elongated, hollow, rectangular structure. The adaptor permits the support assembly to be mounted in a suspended ceiling formed of hat channel or metal stud furring.