Split-Nut Threaded Rod Coupler for Fast Secure Suspension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing structural fasteners lack an efficient mechanism to securely attach threaded rods to load-bearing structural components while allowing for easy axial sliding and secure threadable engagement, which is crucial for suspending non-structural components in building structures.
Innovation Solution
A structural fastener system comprising a structure coupler and a threaded rod coupler with a split nut that can transition between open and closed positions, allowing axial sliding and threadable engagement, utilizing a lock and spring mechanism for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional structural fastener is used to attach a threaded rod to a structural component, then secure attachment is achieved, but installation complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener is divided into separate components: a coupler body and a split nut assembly. The split nut can be independently opened and closed, allowing the threaded rod to be inserted and secured in a simplified two-step process rather than requiring complex alignment and fastening operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The split nut is designed to be dynamically configurable between open and closed positions. This dynamic capability allows the fastener to transition from an open state during installation to a locked closed state during operation, simplifying the installation process while maintaining secure attachment.
2Reliability
If a traditional structural fastener is used to attach a threaded rod, then secure attachment is achieved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The split nut is pre-configured in an open position during manufacturing, allowing the threaded rod to be quickly inserted without requiring on-site disassembly or complex fastening operations. The preliminary preparation of the open split nut significantly reduces installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic open/closed configuration of the split nut enables rapid transition from installation mode (open) to operational mode (closed), reducing the time required to secure the threaded rod to the structural component.
3Ease of operation
If a split nut mechanism is added to allow easy axial sliding, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The split nut is segmented into two halves that can move independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows the nut to open for axial insertion of the threaded rod and close for secure engagement, providing ease of operation through a simple open/close mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The split nut acts as an intermediary component between the coupler body and the threaded rod. It mediates the transition from axial sliding (insertion) to threadable engagement (securing), simplifying the overall operation while adding minimal structural 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
Enables quick and secure attachment of threaded rods to structural components, allowing for easy installation and adjustment while ensuring the non-structural components are securely suspended, enhancing the stability and versatility of building structures.
Implementation Method 1
a spring configured to bias the split nut to the closed position
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a structural fastener includes a threaded rod coupler. The threaded rod coupler includes a split nut for coupling to the threaded rod. The threaded rod coupler further includes a housing connected to the structure coupler. The split nut may be received in the housing. The threaded rod coupler further includes first and second springs each coupled to and biasing corresponding one of first and second nut portions of the split nut toward one another. The present disclosure further provides a method of attaching a threaded rod to a structural component using a structural fastener. The method includes coupling a structural fastener to the structural component, sliding the threaded rod through a split nut of the structural component couple the rod to the structural fastener, and receiving springs secured in a nut arm of the split nut within a housing of the structural fastener.