Spring-Loaded Clamping Bracket for Tool-Free Ceiling Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ceiling systems with mounting brackets for ceiling elements are complex and costly to install and maintain, requiring tools and fasteners, and are not securely mounted to withstand drafts, making periodic access to mechanical systems cumbersome and expensive.
Innovation Solution
A ceiling system utilizing a specially configured clamping bracket with a rigid body and elastic member for rapid, tool-free mounting of ceiling elements to support members, providing secure and stable attachment without the need for fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If clips or brackets with fasteners are used to mount ceiling elements, then the elements can be securely mounted, but the installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes fasteners from the mounting system, extracting the complicating element while retaining secure mounting capability through the spring-loaded bracket design that holds ceiling elements without traditional fastening mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded bracket automatically adjusts and secures ceiling elements through its elastic mechanism, eliminating the need for manual fastener installation and tool usage, making the system self-servicing during installation and maintenance
2Reliability
If clips or brackets with fasteners are used to mount ceiling elements, then the elements can be securely mounted, but the installation time and labor cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded brackets are pre-configured with elastic members that are ready to engage ceiling elements immediately, eliminating the preliminary steps of fastener installation and tool preparation required in traditional systems
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic mechanism automatically performs the securing action when ceiling elements are placed on the brackets, eliminating manual fastening operations and significantly reducing installation time
3Reliability
If traditional clips or brackets are used, then mounting can be achieved, but periodic removal and replacement of ceiling elements becomes cumbersome and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded brackets automatically release ceiling elements when upward force is applied, enabling easy removal and replacement without tools or fastener manipulation, making maintenance operations simple and cost-effective
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic mechanism provides dynamic mounting that allows for easy engagement and disengagement of ceiling elements, transforming a static fastened connection into a dynamic, easily reversible connection
4Reliability
If ceiling elements are mounted with traditional clips or brackets, then they can be secured, but movement due to drafts may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded brackets utilize elastic force parameters to create a more stable connection that resists draft-induced movements, transforming the mounting connection from rigid/fastener-dependent to elastic-force-dependent for improved stability
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 secure, stable, and tool-free mounting of ceiling elements, reducing installation and maintenance costs while minimizing movement due to drafts, thus simplifying access to mechanical systems.
Implementation Method 1
a deformable elastic member (160) mounted to the bracket (140) and configured to resiliently engage the support member (110)
Data Source
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AI summary
A ceiling system in one embodiment includes a longitudinally-extending support member mountable from a ceiling and a clamping bracket attachable to the support member for supporting a ceiling element. The clamping bracket includes a cavity that receives the support member at least partially therein. A resiliently deformable elastic member has a movable bearing surface positioned in the cavity of the clamping bracket. The elastic member is movable from an undeflected inactive position to a deflected active position in response to inserting the support member into the cavity of the clamping bracket. The elastic member applies a force on the support member to help retain the clamping bracket on the support member.