Modular Plumbing Support Frame for Rotatable Line Entry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plumbing connection systems are cumbersome due to restrictive attachment structures that prevent rotation and efficient access to water supply and drain lines, limiting installation flexibility and accessibility.
Innovation Solution
A modular support system with a frame and connector assembly that allows for flexible orientation and connection of plumbing lines from multiple directions, featuring sliding joints and adjustable tabs for secure locking, enabling easy access and installation without the need for fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If attachment structures are provided on the sides of the box to enable connection to studs or brackets, then the box can be securely mounted, but the attachment structures block the sidewalls from receiving water supply and drain lines, restricting entry to top and bottom walls only
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate functional components: attachment structures for mounting to studs/brackets and openings for line entry. The attachment structures are positioned on the ends rather than sides, separating their function from the sidewalls which remain open for line reception from any direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The box is designed to receive lines from multiple dimensions/directions (top, bottom, left, right) by positioning attachment structures only on the ends. This allows sidewalls to remain open for lateral line entry while maintaining secure mounting capability.
2Reliability
If attachment structures are positioned on the sides of the box, then secure mounting is achieved, but the boxes cannot be rotated and installation becomes more cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
Attachment structures are positioned asymmetrically on the ends of the box rather than on the sides, creating a design where the box has no predetermined top or bottom orientation. This asymmetric positioning allows the box to be rotated during installation to accommodate different line configurations while maintaining secure mounting.
Solution Approach 2:
The box design allows for dynamic repositioning and rotation during installation. The attachment structures on the ends rather than sides enable the box to be oriented in different directions (rotated) to accommodate various plumbing configurations, making the installation process more flexible and adaptable to different site conditions.
3Device complexity
If the configuration prevents connecting boxes in stacked vertical orientation, then attachment structure simplicity is maintained, but side entry of supply and drain lines is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment structures on the ends serve multiple functions: they enable both vertical stacking of boxes and horizontal mounting to studs/brackets. The universal design allows boxes to be connected in various configurations (stacked vertically, mounted side-by-side, or in L-arrangements) without requiring different attachment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
By positioning attachment structures on the ends rather than sides, the design enables connection in multiple spatial dimensions. Boxes can be stacked vertically (one above another) or connected horizontally (side-by-side), providing versatility in system configuration while maintaining relatively simple attachment structures.
Data Source
AI summary
The presently disclosed technology generally provides a modular support system for plumbing connections. In one example, the system includes a frame, a connector that fits entirely in front of a support stud, and an optional housing. The frame includes symmetrical sides, each including a rail assembly. The connector includes first opposed sidewalls, each having a pair of boxways that receive the rails on any side of a frame unit to form a sliding joint between the frame and connector. Second opposed sidewalls include flexible tabs that engage frame corner flanges to prevent rearward disengagement of the connector from the frame. The housing includes structure for connection with the frame. The housing can be rotated for connection with the frame to receive vertical or horizontal plumbing lines. Connectors can connect the frame units in vertical or horizontal relation, or on either side of a building stud, or to brackets.