Pass-Through Element Protector With Embedded Teeth Fastening
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Solution Overview
Problem
In modern construction, pass-through elements like wires and pipes within walls are often damaged due to their invisibility behind drywall, leading to accidental contact during activities such as hanging pictures or inserting objects into support structures.
Innovation Solution
The development of pass-through element protectors, which include a metal casting and a plate with teeth or self-tapping screws, enclose the elements and attach to the support structure, preventing damage by embedding into the structure and securing the protector in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If pass-through elements are hidden behind drywall within walls, then the aesthetic appearance and clean finish are improved, but the risk of accidental damage increases due to invisibility
Solution Approach 1:
A protective device is introduced as an intermediary element installed within the support structure to shield pass-through elements from accidental contact. The device acts as a physical barrier between the hidden wires/pipes and potential impacting objects, resolving the contradiction by maintaining both aesthetic appearance and reducing damage risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective device is installed in advance during construction before the pass-through elements are vulnerable to damage. By pre-positioning the protection mechanism within the support structure, the system ensures elements are protected before any accidental contact can occur, while maintaining the clean finished appearance.
2Reliability
If protective devices are installed to enclose pass-through elements, then protection effectiveness is improved, but the complexity of installation and device structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protective device is divided into separate functional components: a support structure integration element, an enclosure portion, and a fastening mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies installation by enabling modular assembly within the support structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective device incorporates self-aligning and self-securing features that reduce installation complexity. The device automatically positions itself within the support structure and secures through inherent mechanical interlocking or simple fastening mechanisms, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures or specialized installation tools.
Data Source
AI summary
A pass-through element protector includes a metal casting, an opening, a plate, and a plurality of teeth. The metal casting is formed as a partial enclosure around a central axis with an inner surface facing the central axis and an outer surface facing away from the central axis. The opening is provided in the partial enclosure from the inner surface to the outer surface. The plate at least partially closes the partial enclosure at one end along the central axis. The teeth are provided on the plate facing the partial enclosure to fasten the pass-through element protector to a support structure.