Lever-Locked Sprinkler Bracket Assembly for T-Bar Beam 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 the fire suppression fluid.
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 a second plate that can be rotated relative to a first plate, using a fastener or lever assembly to securely anchor the bracket assembly to the beam, allowing for easy installation and secure positioning of the sprinkler head.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fasteners such as screws or bolts are used to secure the bracket assembly to the beam, then the connection strength is sufficient to withstand high fluid pressure, but the installation process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket assembly employs a dynamic fastening mechanism where the second plate can be rotated relative to the first plate during installation, transitioning from an open state (easy insertion) to a closed state (secure locking). This dynamic movement allows the assembly to adapt between installation mode and operation mode, resolving the contradiction between quick installation and strong connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket assembly is divided into multiple functional components: a first plate for initial positioning, a second plate for securing, a seating frame for support, and a fastener mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, with the first plate enabling quick placement and the second plate providing secure fastening, thus achieving both speed and strength.
2Ease of operation
If the bracket assembly is designed for quick installation without tools, then the installation process is simplified, but the ability to resist side, rotational, and torsional forces under high pressure may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket assembly is designed to be self-installing without requiring external tools. The lever arm mechanism allows the installer to manually actuate the fastener by applying force to the lever, which automatically tightens the connection between the first and second plates. This self-service mechanism maintains installation ease while ensuring sufficient fastening strength through mechanical advantage.
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly transitions from a movable state during installation to a rigid locked state during operation. The second plate rotates into position and locks against the first plate, creating a rigid structure capable of resisting high fluid pressure forces. This dynamic transformation allows the assembly to be easy to install yet strong in service.
3Reliability
If the bracket assembly uses a complex fastening mechanism to ensure secure attachment, then the connection reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening mechanism uses a simple rotational movement of the second plate relative to the first plate, actuated by a lever arm. This dynamic, single-degree-of-freedom mechanism achieves reliable attachment without requiring multiple fasteners, adjustment mechanisms, or complex assembly steps, thus maintaining low device complexity while ensuring high attachment reliability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the bracket assembly is designed to accommodate T-bar beams in ceiling grid systems, then the adaptability to standard building structures is improved, but the design complexity increases to ensure proper fit and secure attachment
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket assembly is designed with universal features that accommodate standard T-bar ceiling grid beams. The seating frame and plate configuration are optimized to fit the typical dimensions and geometry of T-bar beams, allowing the same bracket design to be used across different building structures without customization, thus achieving adaptability without increasing design complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for using a bracket assembly includes providing a bracket assembly comprising a first plate, a second plate rotatable relative to the first plate, and a lever assembly, the lever assembly comprising a rod and a lever; engaging a beam with the first and second plates; and actuating the lever to decrease a space between the first and second plates to make the bracket assembly more secured with the beam.