Modular Ceiling Tube Assembly With Anti-Loosening Screw Lock

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ceiling fastening devices for medical devices require custom-made ceiling pipes that are difficult to adjust on-site, leading to potential mismatches in length and damage to the paint finish when changes occur, necessitating new purchases or on-site cutting.

Innovation Solution

A modular ceiling pipe system composed of standardized segments with screw securing elements that allow adjustable length without damaging the paint finish, featuring internal screw securing elements and fine threads to prevent unintentional loosening, ensuring a secure and clean appearance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a custom-made ceiling pipe is used, then the initial length specification is met, but the pipe cannot be adjusted on-site if conditions change

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustability of ceiling pipe lengthVSAvoidcomplexity of ceiling pipe structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The ceiling pipe is divided into multiple standardized segments that can be connected in different combinations. Each segment has a standardized connection interface (screw thread) allowing them to be assembled into various total lengths. This segmentation enables on-site adjustment of the overall pipe length while maintaining a relatively simple individual segment design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If the ceiling pipe is cut on-site to adjust length, then the length requirement is met, but the paint finish is damaged

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustability of ceiling pipe lengthVSAvoiddamage to paint finish

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of cutting a single custom-made pipe, the system uses pre-fabricated segments with standard lengths. The desired total length is achieved by selecting and connecting the appropriate number of segments, eliminating the need for on-site cutting and preserving the factory-applied paint finish on all segments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If a modular segment system is used, then on-site adjustment is enabled, but the risk of screw connection loosening increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustability of ceiling pipe lengthVSAvoidstability of screw connection

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The screw connection includes an integrated locking mechanism that prevents loosening before it can occur. The locking element (such as a nylon insert or deformed thread section) is built into the connection interface, creating preliminary resistance against the loosening forces that arise during vibration or operation, thereby maintaining connection stability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Solution Approach 2:

The screw thread uses a fine thread design with increased thread density. This parameter change increases the frictional resistance and mechanical interlocking between segments, making the connection more resistant to loosening while still allowing for controlled assembly and disassembly when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

4Reliability

If an external locking mechanism is added, then loosening is prevented, but the appearance and cleanliness are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestability of screw connectionVSAvoidaccumulation of dirt and contaminants

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism is nested within the segment structure itself rather than being an external addition. The locking element is positioned inside the connection interface, concealed by the segment geometry. This nested arrangement prevents dirt accumulation while maintaining the locking function, as the locking features are integrated into the internal structure of the connection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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

Enables flexible on-site adjustment of ceiling pipe length without damaging the paint, maintaining consistent quality and appearance, and preventing loosening over time, suitable for medical and industrial applications.

Implementation Method 1

The design of the thread as a fine thread advantageously counteracts the accidental loosening of the screw connection due to increased friction in the thread.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

adjacent pipe segments provide a screw connection securing element which is designed to counteract loosening of the screw connection

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Fastener: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentEP4464296A1Ceiling mounting device for medical devices

Publication Date: 2024.11.20 AMTRION GMBH

Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a ceiling mounting device for medical devices comprising a ceiling-mountable support (1) and a ceiling tube (2) which is vertically extended longitudinally in a mounting position and held on the support (1), wherein the ceiling tube (2) has a plurality of tube segments (2.1, 2.2), wherein the tube segments are screwed together via a thread (3) and adjacent tube segments (2.1, 2.2) provide a screw locking element which is designed to counteract loosening of the screw connection.