Rotatable Snap-Fit Sprinkler Bracket for T-Bar Load Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fire sprinkler support assemblies are cumbersome to install and do not efficiently secure sprinkler heads to T-bar beams in ceiling grid systems, particularly under high fluid pressure conditions, which can lead to misdirection of the fire suppression stream.
Innovation Solution
A bracket assembly comprising a first plate and a second plate, with a seating frame that straddles the beam and a fastener system allowing for easy installation and secure anchoring to the T-bar beam, enabling the bracket assembly to 'snap' onto the beam and adjust for firm positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fasteners (screws or bolts) are used to secure the bracket to the ceiling structure, then the connection strength is sufficient to withstand high fluid pressure, but the installation time increases significantly due to the need for special tools and time-consuming tightening processes
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket assembly transitions from a static fastened state to a dynamic snap-fit state during installation. The second plate is designed to be actionable (movable) relative to the first plate, allowing the assembly to dynamically engage with the beam during installation and then lock into a secure position, thereby reducing installation time while maintaining connection strength
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket assembly is pre-configured with the fastener already positioned to engage with both plates. The second plate is pre-designed with features that allow it to snap into place against the beam, performing the securing action in advance of final installation, thus eliminating the need for time-consuming on-site tightening operations
2Ease of manufacture
If the bracket assembly uses a simple single-plate design, then the installation process is simpler, but the ability to resist side, rotational, and torsional forces under high pressure is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket assembly is divided into two separate plates (first plate and second plate) that work together to provide enhanced structural strength. The first plate provides the primary mounting surface, while the second plate extends through the first plate opening and engages with the beam, creating a segmented structure that resists multiple types of forces while maintaining installation simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The second plate extends in a different dimension through the first plate opening, creating a three-dimensional configuration that provides superior resistance to side, rotational, and torsional forces. This dimensional addition allows the assembly to maintain structural integrity under high pressure while keeping the installation process simple
3Manufacturing precision
If the bracket assembly is designed to securely anchor to the beam with multiple engagement points, then the positioning accuracy and stability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The two-plate configuration serves multiple functions simultaneously: the first plate provides the primary mounting surface, the second plate extends through the opening to engage with the beam, and together they provide secure anchoring at multiple engagement points. This multi-functional design achieves precise positioning and high stability without proportionally increasing complexity, as the same structural elements perform multiple roles
Data Source
AI summary
A bracket assembly includes a stationary plate comprising first and second beam engagement members, the first beam engagement member spaced from the second beam engagement member, each of the first and second beam engagement members configured to extend substantially across and to support the bracket assembly on a top end of a beam; and a rotatable plate defining a plate engagement member engaging the stationary plate, the rotatable plate rotatable relative to the stationary plate at the plate engagement member, the rotatable plate defining a third beam engagement member; wherein the third beam engagement member is configured to extend along a first side of the beam, and the first and second beam engagement members are configured to extend along a second side of the beam opposite the first side.