Plasterboard Fixing Assembly With Simultaneous Retaining Arm Actuation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fixing devices for plasterboard struggle with uneven gripping and slippage, especially when used in corners or against objects, and there is a risk of over-insertion leading to loss into cavities behind the plasterboard due to varying wall thicknesses.

Innovation Solution

A fixing system with a body having multiple passages and shafts that allow retaining members to pivot from a retracted to an extended position simultaneously, using an activation tool to ensure secure anchoring, and over-insertion stops to prevent excessive depth penetration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If retaining members are extended to secure the fixing device in the hole, then the fixing device is retainable and prevents removal, but uneven gripping and slippage occur when used in corners or against objects

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveretaining capabilityVSAvoidgripping uniformity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing device divides the retention function into multiple independent retaining members (typically three arms) that can be individually activated. Each arm is controlled by its own shaft that can be independently rotated, allowing selective engagement of retaining members based on the installation situation. This segmentation enables uniform gripping distribution while maintaining reliable retention capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If the fixing device is inserted deeply into the hole to ensure anchoring, then secure anchoring is achieved, but over-insertion causes loss into cavities behind the plasterboard

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanchoring securityVSAvoidwall thickness adaptation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing device incorporates pre-positioned depth control features (such as stops or限位 structures) that prevent over-insertion before the retaining members are extended. This preliminary action ensures that the body remains accessible for operation while automatically adapting to different wall thicknesses, eliminating the need for precise insertion depth control by the user.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If multiple shafts are provided for individual rotation of retaining members, then even gripping is achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegripping uniformityVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing device combines multiple shafts and retaining members into a single integrated body structure where the shafts are positioned and oriented to work together as a coordinated system. The body integrates the activation mechanism for all retaining members, allowing them to be engaged simultaneously or selectively through a unified operation process, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite having multiple movable components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP3399199B1Fixing device with simultaneous actuation
Publication Date: 2023.07.05 UK BUILDING PROD LTD
  • EP3399199B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3399199B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3399199B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

The present invention relates to a fixing device and finds particular, although not exclusive, utility in providing an anchoring point in plasterboard 23 cavity walls or ceilings for the purpose of affixing other items thereto, in which uneven gripping and/or slippage of the fixing device can be avoided by reducing the steps taken to secure the device.