Inverted-V Conduit Support Rack for Sanitary Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support rack systems for electrical conduits and plumbing in industries like food processing and healthcare are time-consuming to customize and prone to contamination due to conventional hardware designs that collect dirt and moisture, posing risks to sanitation.
Innovation Solution
A rack system with an inverted V shape and beveled bolt and standoff components that reduce contaminant collection, featuring a level surface and sloped edges to facilitate easy cleaning and installation, with integrated hardware that minimizes flat surfaces for dirt accumulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional hardware (bolts, welding, snap locks) is used to secure conduits to support racks, then the installation is structurally sound, but contaminants can collect on edges and surfaces of the hardware
Solution Approach 1:
The support rack uses rounded corners and curved surfaces instead of sharp edges and flat surfaces. The conduit support members feature rounded profiles that eliminate crevices where contaminants could accumulate, while maintaining structural integrity through the curved geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The system integrates the conduit support function directly into the rack structure using composite construction methods, eliminating separate hardware components. The rack members are formed with integrated support features that combine structural strength with sanitation requirements in a single monolithic structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom-built rack systems are constructed on-site to fit specific projects, then the racks can be customized to project requirements, but the process is time-consuming and increases contamination risk
Solution Approach 1:
The support rack system uses standardized modular components with universal mounting features that can accommodate different conduit sizes and configurations. The adjustable support members and standardized hole patterns allow the same rack design to serve multiple project requirements without custom fabrication.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack systems are pre-assembled and pre-configured off-site with all support members, brackets, and fasteners installed before delivery to the project location. This preliminary preparation eliminates on-site construction time while maintaining the ability to accommodate specific project requirements through modular configuration.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional rack systems are used without consideration for sanitation, then the installation process is simpler, but the racks cannot be easily cleaned to prevent bacteria and mold growth
Solution Approach 1:
All surfaces of the support rack that contact conduits or are exposed to the environment are designed with rounded profiles and eliminated sharp corners. This curvature prevents dirt and moisture accumulation and allows cleaning solutions to flow freely over all surfaces without pooling in crevices.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the rack system have different surface characteristics optimized for their specific functions. Support surfaces have rounded profiles for sanitation, while mounting interfaces maintain precise geometric features for structural integrity. This localized differentiation achieves both cleanability and structural requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A rack system for supporting conduits, piping, wiring, etc, are provided. The rack has an inverted V shape, and a level top ridge for supporting the conduits, etc. The rack has an opening in the ridge through which a bolt extends and continues through a standoff adapted to securely fit down both sides of the inverted V.