Rotating Duct Connector for Stable Utility Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector-fixing plate systems for connecting utilities to fluid supply ducts are complex, time-consuming, and prone to instability and suboptimal configurations, leading to stress and potential damage to the ducts due to frequent reorientation and limited angular positions.
Innovation Solution
A connector system with a hollow body and interface member that allows free rotation around a rotation axis, coupled with an anchorage structure, enabling stable connection to a wall without screws, and featuring a constraint member for duct fixation, ensuring easy installation and reduced stress on the duct.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a connector-fixing plate system with multiple screws and fixed angular positions is used, then stable connection to wall and duct is achieved, but device complexity increases and installation time is excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into functionally independent parts: a fixing plate for wall attachment and a connector body for duct connection. The fixing plate contains integration means (teeth) that engage with corresponding means on the connector body, allowing the two components to be separated during installation yet remain securely connected during operation. This segmentation simplifies the installation process while maintaining connection stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed with rotational freedom around a rotation axis, transitioning from a static fixed-angular-position system to a dynamic adjustable system. The interface member allows the connector body to rotate relative to the fixing plate, enabling adaptation to different duct orientations without requiring multiple pre-configured angular positions or complex locking mechanisms.
2Reliability
If a connector with fixed angular positions is used, then stable connection is achieved, but adaptability to different duct orientations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates a rotation axis that allows the connector body to dynamically adjust its angular position relative to the fixing plate. This dynamic capability enables the connector to adapt to various duct orientations (vertical, horizontal, angled) while maintaining a stable connection through the engagement of integration means, eliminating the need for multiple fixed angular configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed as a universal interface that can accommodate different duct orientations and connection types. The fixing plate with its integration means serves multiple functions: anchoring to the wall, providing a rotation axis, and securing the connector body. This multi-functionality allows a single connector design to replace multiple specialized connectors for different angular positions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If frequent reorientation of the connector is performed, then adaptability to different configurations is achieved, but stress and damage to the duct increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation axis enables smooth, controlled reorientation of the connector body relative to the fixed fixing plate. This dynamic adjustment mechanism allows configuration changes to be made at the connector level without moving or stressing the duct itself. The duct remains stationary while the connector adapts to different orientations, minimizing mechanical stress and potential damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotation axis acts as an intermediary mechanism between the fixed wall mounting and the flexible duct connection. It absorbs the adaptability requirements, allowing the connector to assume different angular positions without transmitting stress to the duct. The integration means maintain a secure connection throughout the reorientation process, preventing damage.
4Reliability
If a screw-based fixing system is used, then stable connection to wall is achieved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing plate is designed with pre-formed integration means (teeth) that are ready to engage with corresponding means on the connector body. The fixing plate can be independently mounted to the wall using standard anchoring methods, and the connector body can be independently connected to the duct. These preliminary preparations eliminate the need for time-consuming on-site assembly and adjustment during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is segmented into independently installable components: the fixing plate for wall attachment and the connector body for duct connection. This segmentation allows parallel installation activities and simplifies the overall installation process. The integration means provide automatic alignment and secure connection when the components are brought together, reducing installation time while maintaining connection stability.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for connecting a duct (for circulating a fluid to a utility includes a hollow body defining a channel for the passage of the fluid between a first opening and a second opening. The hollow body is configured for being constrained to the duct at the second opening. The connector comprises also an interface member associated to the hollow body at the first opening and configured for associating the connector to an anchorage structure. The interface member is also configured for connecting the connector to the utility and for allowing a fluid communication between the channel and the utility. The connector provides that the hollow body and the interface member are, during use, freely rotating in a reciprocating manner around a rotation axis.