Snap-To-Grid Sprinkler Bracket for Torsion-Resistant T-Bar Mounting
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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 fire suppression fluids.
Innovation Solution
A bracket assembly with a first plate and a second plate, where the second plate is actionable relative to the first plate, and a screw coupling them together, allowing for easy installation and secure anchoring to T-bar beams by adjusting the distance between the plates to resist side, rotational, and torsional forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional fasteners (screws or bolts) are used to secure the sprinkler support assembly to the ceiling structure, then the assembly can be firmly anchored, but the installation process becomes time-consuming and requires special tools
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is divided into two separate plates (first plate and second plate) that can be independently positioned and then joined together. This segmentation allows the installer to snap the bracket onto the T-bar beam without requiring special tools, significantly reducing installation time while maintaining secure anchoring through the subsequent fastening of the two plates together
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket bar is pre-formed with a bent configuration that includes a first portion and a second portion positioned at different locations on the T-bar beam. This preliminary shaping allows the bracket to be quickly snapped into place on the ceiling structure before final fastening, eliminating the need for complex on-site adjustments and special installation tools
2Strength
If the bracket assembly uses a single rigid plate design, then the structure is simple, but it cannot effectively resist side, rotational, and torsional forces under high fluid pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The first plate and second plate are combined through fasteners to form a unified bracket assembly that effectively resists side, rotational, and torsional forces. The merging of these two plates creates a more robust structure capable of withstanding high fluid pressure (up to 175 psi) while maintaining reasonable structural complexity through the use of standard fastening mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket assembly allows for adjustable positioning of the second plate relative to the first plate through actionable fasteners. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the bracket to be optimized for different installation scenarios and pressure conditions, enhancing force resistance while maintaining flexibility in the structural configuration
Data Source
AI summary
A method for using a bracket assembly includes providing the bracket assembly comprising a first plate, a second plate actionable relative to the first plate, and a screw extending through a first fastener opening in the first plate and a second fastener opening in the second plate; engaging a beam with the first plate and the second plate; and tightening the screw to decrease a space between the first and second plates to make the bracket assembly more secured with the beam.