Ceiling Storage Rack Brackets for Nonstandard Truss Spacing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ceiling storage rack systems for garages struggle with attaching to ceilings with nonstandard rafter separations, as their mounting brackets are typically too narrow to accommodate distances other than 16″ or 24″, limiting their installation flexibility and load capacity.

Innovation Solution

The use of special angle iron connectors with staggered attachment point holes allows for attachment at any rafter separation, providing a stronger connection by positioning bolt holes closer to the center of the truss, and an optional C-shaped beam for increased strength.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If standard mounting brackets with fixed width are used, then installation on standard 16" or 24" rafter separations is straightforward, but installation on nonstandard rafter separations is not possible

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to nonstandard rafter separationsVSAvoidbracket design complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting bracket incorporates adjustable components that allow the bracket width to be modified to match different rafter separations. The bracket can be adjusted to accommodate nonstandard spacing between rafters while maintaining a secure connection, transforming a static fixed-width design into a dynamic adjustable one.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting bracket is divided into multiple segments or adjustment mechanisms that can be reconfigured to match different rafter separations. This segmentation allows the bracket to adapt to various spacing requirements without requiring completely different bracket designs for each scenario.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If mounting brackets are designed for standard separations only, then manufacturing is simple, but installation flexibility is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation flexibilityVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting bracket is designed as a universal component that can be used across multiple rafter separation distances. By incorporating adjustment mechanisms, a single bracket design serves multiple functions - accommodating both standard and nonstandard separations - thereby increasing installation flexibility without requiring multiple specialized bracket types.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Strength

If attachment points are positioned away from the center of trusses, then installation is easier, but load capacity is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveload capacityVSAvoidinstallation difficulty

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting bracket is pre-configured with attachment points positioned at optimal locations that align with the center of trusses. This preliminary positioning ensures maximum load capacity is achieved while the adjustable nature of the bracket maintains ease of installation by allowing alignment with pre-drilled holes or marked positions on the trusses.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS7357262B2Hanging storage system

Publication Date: 2008.04.15 KAPROCK MANAGEMENT LLC

AI summary

A hanging storage system is presented with ceiling attachment strips that can be cut to fit a variety of storage spaces, that possesses attachment brackets long enough to span two or more roof support trusses, and with a C-shaped beam on its long axis designed to permit the system to carry increased weight of stored items.