Panel Mounting Bracket With Sliding Rod and Snap Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixing devices for panels at a distance from a support structure in construction are not ergonomic and require a long installation time, and while some solutions offer faster installation, they are expensive.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a rod with a jumper that clips onto a C-shaped profiled element, featuring a tubular part for sliding and locking/unlocking means with elastically deformable jaws and strips, allowing for easy adjustment and secure locking, providing a simple, cost-effective, and ergonomic solution for panel fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional threaded rods with mineral wool mats and metal profiles are used, then thermal and acoustic insulation is provided, but installation time is long and ergonomics are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the fixing system into separate functional components: a rod for positioning, a bracket for securing the panel, and integrated locking means. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and assembled quickly on-site, reducing installation time while maintaining insulation effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking means are integrated directly into the bracket and rod assembly, allowing the device to lock itself into position without requiring additional tools or complex assembly steps. The elastic jaws automatically engage with the rod's grooves when the bracket is positioned, enabling self-service installation that reduces time and labor requirements.
2Reliability
If traditional threaded rods with metal profiles and locking brackets are used, then panel fixation is achieved, but the system is not ergonomic and requires long installation time
Solution Approach 1:
The locking means are merged directly into the bracket structure, eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms or additional components. This integration simplifies the overall system, improves ergonomics by reducing the number of parts to handle, and maintains secure fixation through the elastic jaws engaging with the rod.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic jaws automatically engage with the rod's grooves when the bracket is positioned, allowing the device to self-lock without requiring manual intervention or additional tools. This self-service mechanism improves ergonomics by eliminating complex manual locking operations while ensuring reliable fixation.
3Reliability
If devices with multiple securing components and threading mechanisms are used, then secure locking is achieved, but device complexity increases and installation becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates unnecessary components from traditional fixing systems, such as separate threading mechanisms, multiple securing brackets, and complex locking devices. Only the essential elements (rod, bracket, and integrated elastic jaws) are retained, reducing complexity while maintaining locking reliability through the elastic engagement mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic jaws automatically engage and disengage through simple elastic deformation when the bracket is positioned or removed, eliminating the need for threading tools, wrenches, or complex locking procedures. This self-service mechanism reduces device complexity to its minimum necessary components while ensuring reliable locking through elastic force.
4Productivity
If simple fixing devices are used, then installation is faster and easier, but cost increases for previously expensive solutions
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses simple, inexpensive materials such as elastic jaws made from cost-effective polymers or metals, rods with basic grooves, and brackets with integrated locking features. These components are designed to be economically manufactured through standard processes, enabling fast installation without the high costs associated with complex mechanical systems or specialized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the fundamental operating parameters from complex mechanical threading and multi-component assembly to simple elastic deformation and geometric engagement. This parameter change allows for faster installation while reducing manufacturing costs by using simpler materials and processes that do not require precision machining or assembly of multiple parts.
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
The device enables quick and easy installation with improved ergonomics and reduced costs, addressing the inefficiencies of previous systems while maintaining effective thermal and sound insulation.
Implementation Method 1
two elastically deformable jaws adapted to cooperate with the tubular part of the rider
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The present invention relates to a device for fixing panels at a distance from a support structure, said device comprising at least one rod (2) having a first end having means for fixing (3) to said structure, a bracket (1) shaped to clip onto a profiled element of substantially C-shaped cross-section having two coplanar edges, commonly called a furring strip, said bracket (1) having a tubular part (12) forming a channel inside which the rod (2) can slide in order to allow movement of said bracket (1) along the rod (2), and locking/unlocking means (4) capable of taking at least two positions, a position called unlocked in which the bracket (2) is able to slide along the rod (2) and a locked position in which the bracket (2) is locked on the rod (2);said device is remarkable in that the locking/unlocking means (4) comprise gripping means (17) integral with a rod (18) at the free end of which extend two elastically deformable jaws (19) adapted to cooperate with the tubular part (12) of the rider (1), and at least one slat (20) extending between the two jaws (19), said slat (20) being adapted to be inserted into first transverse slots (13) made in the tubular part (12) of the rider (1) and into second transverse slots (5) made in the rod (2), the first and second slots (13,5) extending directly opposite each other when the rod (2) is inserted into the tubular part (12) of the rider (1).