Angled Sprinkler Support Bracket for Snap-On Ceiling Grid Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fire sprinkler support assemblies face challenges in securely attaching to ceiling grid systems, particularly in grid-type ceilings, where limited space between tiles and inner structures lead to weak points prone to failure, and require time-consuming tool-based installation processes.
Innovation Solution
A snap-to-grid angled bracket assembly with angled plates and a seating frame that can be easily secured to a T-bar beam, allowing for flexible installation of ceiling tiles and reducing the need for specialized tools, while providing a stable mounting system resistant to side, rotational, and torsional forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional leg brackets are used in grid-type ceiling systems, then the sprinkler support can be installed, but the bracket creates a weak point at the bend that is prone to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is divided into multiple straight segments (first plate, second plate, first member, second member) connected by pivot joints, eliminating the need for bent sections while maintaining the ability to fit into the ceiling grid system. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by removing the weak bent point while preserving installation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket incorporates pivot joints that allow the segments to rotate relative to each other, enabling the bracket to adapt to different ceiling grid configurations dynamically. This dynamic capability eliminates the need for fixed bent shapes while maintaining reliability across various installation scenarios.
2Reliability
If conventional support assemblies are secured to ceiling structure by fasteners, then secure mounting is achieved, but the installation process is time consuming and requires special tools
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket assembly is designed to self-align and self-secure within the ceiling grid system using the pivot joints and straight plate configuration, eliminating the need for special installation tools and reducing installation time while maintaining secure mounting through the inherent mechanical interlocking of the segmented structure.
3Ease of operation
If leg brackets are offset with respect to the support member, then space constraints in grid-type ceilings are addressed, but a weak point is created at the bend
Solution Approach 1:
The offset positioning is achieved through separate straight segments connected by pivot joints rather than a single bent piece, eliminating the weak bent point while maintaining the offset configuration needed for ease of installation in grid-type ceilings.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot joints enable dynamic adjustment of the bracket segments to achieve proper offset positioning relative to the support member, providing installation ease while avoiding the creation of weak bent points through the use of straight, robust segments.
Data Source
AI summary
A bracket assembly includes an inner plate defining a first end and a second end opposite the first end; an outer plate defining a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the outer plate substantially parallel with the inner plate; a first member extending from the second end of the inner plate, the first member defining a first free end distal to the inner plate; and a second member extending from the second end of the outer plate, the second member defining a second free end distal to the outer plate; wherein at least one of the first free end and the second free end is angled away from the other of the first free end and the second free end, such that a distance between the first member and the second member increases towards the first and second free ends.