Slidable mounting block for insertion into a rail, fixing arrangement for a technical installation and their use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixing arrangements for technical installations, such as underfloor heating systems, lack flexibility in accommodating different numbers and types of heating circuits, as they often require fixed hole spacings and diameters, making it difficult to add or adjust fasteners post-installation.
Innovation Solution
A slidable mounting block with two distinct fixing areas and spring arms, allowing for adjustable positioning and use of different fasteners, such as self-tapping screws and bolts, within a partially closed rail profile, enabling flexible attachment and easy adjustment of elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If perforated rails with fixed hole spacing and diameter are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the adaptability to different installation configurations is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting block is divided into two separate fixing areas (first fixing area with first hole, second fixing area with second hole and recess), each capable of independent use. This segmentation allows flexible selection of different fastening methods depending on installation needs, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting block integrates multiple fastening capabilities within a single component: it can accommodate self-tapping screws (first hole), bolts with hexagonal heads (second hole and recess), and other fastening methods. This multi-functionality provides adaptability to different installation configurations while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If bolts are used to fix installation elements to the rail, then strong fastening is achieved, but it becomes difficult to add further fasteners later
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting block separates fixing functions into distinct areas: the first hole accepts self-tapping screws that can be easily installed and removed, while the second fixing area with recess is designed for bolts. This segmentation allows installers to choose the appropriate fastening method based on whether future adjustments are needed, resolving the contradiction between strong fastening and ease of post-installation modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting block is designed to be slidable along the rail, providing dynamic positioning capability. Combined with the two fixing areas offering different fastening options, this allows the installation configuration to be dynamically adjusted after initial installation, addressing the need for both strong fastening and future adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a slidable mounting block with two fixing areas and spring arms is used, then flexibility and adaptability are greatly improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting block combines multiple functions into a single integrated component: two fixing areas with different fastening capabilities, spring arms for positioning, and rail engagement features. While this provides great flexibility, it does increase structural complexity compared to simpler mounting solutions.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring arms provide dynamic positioning capability, allowing the mounting block to be easily inserted and positioned along the rail while maintaining secure engagement. This dynamic feature, combined with the two fixing areas, greatly enhances flexibility but adds to the overall device complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a highly flexible and adaptable means to attach multiple elements to a rail system, allowing for easy assembly and adjustment, even after initial installation, and supports preconfiguration before site attachment, enhancing the installation process.
Implementation Method 1
The mounting block comprises two spring arms configured for holding the mounting block within the profile when inserted into the rail
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a slidable mounting block (11) for insertion into a rail (10) having a partially closed profile, wherein the slidable mounting block (11) has a front face (19) and a rear face (20) opposite to said front face (19), the front face (19) facing an open part of the partially closed profile when inserted into the rail 10. The slidable mounting block (11) comprises a first hole (21) accessible from the front face (19) in a first fixing area of the mounting block (11) and configured for screwing in a threaded part of a first fastener, a recess (23) accessible from the rear face (20) in a second fixing area of the mounting block (11) and configured for holding a head of a second fastener, and a second hole (22) accessible from the front face (19) in the second fixing area of the mounting block (11), the second hole (22) being co-aligned with the recess (23) and configured for passing a shaft of the second fastener through the mounting block (11). The invention further relates to a fixing arrangement comprising a slidable mounting block (11) as well as their use to fix a plurality of pipes to a manifold (2, 3), a mixer or other element of a technical installation (1), such as an underfloor heating installation.