Modular Installation Device for Containment System Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of vertical supports for electrical and mechanical containment systems is labor-intensive and prone to human error due to the time-consuming and inaccurate measurement process required for correct alignment and spacing.
Innovation Solution
A modular installation device with pivotable and slidable elements that can be set to specific angles and distances, equipped with a laser line generator for accurate alignment, allowing for repetitive and precise measurement of drill points for vertical supports, reducing labor costs and improving alignment accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional manual measurement methods are used for drill points, then installation flexibility is maintained, but measurement precision and alignment accuracy deteriorate due to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement device is divided into multiple independent elements (first element with linear alignment indicator, second element with position indicators, engagement means) that can be separately manufactured and assembled. Each element performs a specific function: the first element provides alignment reference, the second element provides spacing measurement, and the engagement means connects them. This segmentation enables high measurement precision while keeping individual components simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The device pre-sets specific angles (90 degrees or 45 degrees) and measured distances between the first and second elements before use. These geometric parameters are fixed during device assembly, eliminating the need for operators to perform complex calculations and measurements during installation. The preliminary configuration of angles and distances ensures accurate drill point positioning without requiring skilled measurement techniques.
2Manufacturing precision
If detailed measuring and alignment procedures are performed manually, then installation accuracy can be achieved, but labor time and installation duration increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement device is self-aligning and self-measuring. When the first and second elements are positioned against the ceiling or reference surface, the linear alignment indicator and position indicators automatically align with the desired drill point locations. The device does not require operators to manually measure, calculate, or mark each drill point - the geometry of the device itself performs the measurement and alignment functions, dramatically reducing installation time while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
All measurement calculations, angle determinations, and spacing computations are performed in advance during device manufacturing. The fixed angles (90° or 45°) and pre-set distances between indicators are configured beforehand, so during installation, workers simply need to position the device and read the pre-marked locations. This preliminary preparation of measurement parameters transforms a complex multi-step measurement process into a simple positioning operation.
3Measurement precision
If fixed measurement devices are used for containment system installation, then measurement consistency is improved, but adaptability to different angles and configurations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement device incorporates both fixed and movable elements. The first and second elements can pivot relative to each other about the engagement means, allowing the device to adapt to different installation angles (90 degrees for straight runs, 45 degrees for corners). However, once positioned, the engagement means locks the elements in place, providing fixed geometric relationships for accurate measurement. This dynamic positioning capability enables the device to maintain measurement precision across multiple configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to perform multiple measurement functions through a single unified structure. The same first element and second element combination can measure drill points for straight containment runs (90° angle) or corner installations (45° angle) by simply pivoting the elements to the appropriate configuration. The engagement means and indicator system remain the same, but their spatial relationship changes to accommodate different installation scenarios, providing universal applicability.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an installation device comprising a substantially planar first element having a first elongate body having a first end and a second end opposing the first end, the elongate body defining a first longitudinal axis and having a width w1 extending transverse to the first longitudinal axis, the elongate body defining a linear alignment indicator located at a midpoint of width w1 and extending along the length of the first element; and a substantially planar second element having a second elongate body having a first end and a second end opposing the first end, the elongate body defining a second longitudinal axis and having a width w2 extending transverse to the second longitudinal axis, the elongate body defining an engagement channel extending along a portion of the length of the second element, the second elongate body further comprising a plurality of position indicators along at least a portion of its length; and engagement means extending from the first element through the engagement channel and operable to secure the first and second elements to one another, wherein the installation device is moveable between a first configuration in which the first and second elements are pivotable relative to one another about the engagement means; a second configuration where the second element is slidable relative to the first element in a direction parallel to the second longitudinal axes; and a third configuration in which the first and second elements are fixed relative to one another. Also provided is a method of preparation of the aforementioned installation device and a method of use of the aforementioned installation device.