Strut Channel Connector Nut with Resilient Lip Insert Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector units for strut channels face challenges in providing versatile, easy, and reliable installation while maintaining high performance.
Innovation Solution
A connector unit comprising an elongate channel nut with a threaded bore, a rotational driver for coupling the threaded rod to the channel nut, and a lip insert with resilient tongues for secure engagement between the channel lips, allowing for easy rotation and secure locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the channel nut is rotated by means of a plastic frame connected to the channel nut, then the channel nut can be rotated between insertion and engagement positions, but the installation process becomes complex and requires additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the rotational driver, lip insert, and channel nut into a single integrated connector unit. The rotational driver is directly connected to the channel nut, eliminating the need for separate plastic frames or additional coupling components. This merging of functions reduces device complexity while maintaining ease of operation during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector unit is designed to perform multiple functions: the lip insert provides both guidance during insertion and rotational seating, while the rotational driver simultaneously rotates the channel nut and engages it behind the channel lips. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components, reducing overall device complexity.
2Ease of operation
If the channel nut is pushed into the channel to cause rotation, then rotation is achieved, but the installation process becomes difficult and requires excessive force
Solution Approach 1:
The lip insert is designed to be inserted into the channel first, creating a pre-positioned rotational seat before the channel nut arrives. This preliminary action guides the channel nut during insertion and provides immediate rotational support, eliminating the need to push the channel nut with excessive force to achieve rotation.
Solution Approach 2:
The lip insert acts as an intermediary element between the channel and the channel nut. It provides a rotational seat that mediates the interaction between the channel lips and the channel nut, allowing smooth rotation without requiring excessive insertion force.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the connector unit is designed for versatile installation, then adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated connector unit design provides universal applicability for installing attachment parts to strut channels. The single unit combines guidance, rotation, and locking functions, making it adaptable to various installation scenarios without requiring different components or increasing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector unit is segmented into distinct functional elements (lip insert, rotational driver, channel nut) that are integrated into a single assembly. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall simplicity through integration.
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 solution enables versatile and easy installation with reliable engagement and locking of the channel nut, providing efficient self-alignment and improved operational performance.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one first resilient tongue is configured to frictionally engage the first lip of the channel
Implementation Method 2
The at least one first resilient tongue for resiliently acting against a first lip of the channel
Data Source
Figure 1~3
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Figure 8~12
AI summary
Connector unit for providing a connection to a strut channel that has two opposing lips, the connector unit comprising • an elongate channel nut for engaging behind the lips of the channel, wherein the channel nut has a threaded bore for threadedly receiving a threaded rod, • a rotational driver for rotationally coupling the threaded rod to the channel nut, for rotating the channel nut between a channel insertion rotational position and a channel engagement rotational position, and • a lip insert for engaging between the lips of the channel so as to provide a rotational seat on the channel, wherein the rotational driver is connected to the lip insert, • wherein the lip insert comprises at least one first resilient tongue for resiliently acting against a first lip of the channel.