Snap-to-Grid Sprinkler Bracket for Fast T-Bar Anchoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fire sprinkler support systems require time-consuming installation processes and do not easily meet fire safety industry requirements for secure mounting on T-bar beams in ceiling grid systems, especially under high fluid pressure conditions.
Innovation Solution
A bracket assembly for fire sprinkler support systems that includes a bracket bar extending transverse to a beam, with a seating frame and rotatable second plate, and a lever assembly to adjust the distance between the plates for secure anchoring to the T-bar beam, allowing for quick and secure installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fasteners (screws or bolts) are used to secure the bracket to the ceiling structure, then the connection strength is sufficient, but the installation time is excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket incorporates a second plate that is rotatable relative to the first plate, allowing the bracket to transition between an open installation position and a closed secured position. This dynamic mechanism enables quick adjustment during installation while maintaining secure fastening through the rotatable plate's engagement with the beam.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket is divided into multiple functional components: a first plate for initial positioning, a rotatable second plate for securing, and a lever assembly for actuation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, with the lever assembly enabling rapid deployment without requiring multiple fastening operations.
2Productivity
If the bracket design is simplified for easier installation, then the installation speed increases, but the ability to resist side, rotational, and torsional forces under high pressure decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable second plate acts as a dynamic locking mechanism that, when rotated into the closed position, creates multiple contact points with the beam. This dynamic engagement provides resistance to side forces, rotational moments, and torsional stresses while maintaining a simple installation process through lever actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket combines the functions of positioning, securing, and force resistance into a single integrated assembly. The first plate provides initial positioning, the rotatable second plate provides securing and force resistance, and the lever assembly provides actuation—all merged into one compact structure that satisfies both installation speed and strength requirements.
3Reliability
If the bracket uses a complex fastening mechanism to meet UL requirements, then the security and reliability improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable second plate provides a dynamic securing mechanism that achieves UL-required security through rotational engagement rather than complex multi-component fastening. When rotated to the closed position, it creates a secure lock that resists various forces while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The lever assembly enables the bracket to self-secure through a single actuation motion. The lever's movement automatically drives the rotatable plate into its secured position, creating a self-locking mechanism that meets reliability requirements without requiring complex external fastening systems or multiple adjustment steps.
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 bracket assembly enables faster and more secure installation of fire sprinkler support systems on T-bar beams, resisting side, rotational, and torsional forces, thus meeting UL requirements and improving installation efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a lever assembly to adjust the distance between the plates for secure anchoring to the T-bar beam
Data Source
AI summary
A fire sprinkler support assembly includes a beam defining a first side and a second side; a bracket bar; and a bracket assembly coupled to an end of the bracket bar, the bracket assembly including: a first plate oriented substantially perpendicular to the bracket bar, the first plate having a first end coupled to the bracket bar and a second end coupled to the beam; a second plate rotatable relative to the first plate; and a lever assembly coupling the first plate to the second plate, the lever assembly operable to adjust a distance between the first plate and second plate.