Threaded Rod Locking Mechanism for Non-Rotating Ceiling Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Installers face challenges in assembling pre-fabricated sub-assemblies on ceilings and structures without rotating threaded rods, as conventional methods require threading rods into internal threads on beam clamps, anchor bolts, and strut nuts, which is inefficient and labor-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A quick threaded rod locking device that automatically locks external threads with internal threads on mating parts without requiring the threaded rod to be rotated, using a mechanism with plunger pieces, a tapered bore, and a spring to secure the rod, allowing for easy assembly and height adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional beam clamps, anchor bolts, and strut nuts are used to assemble pre-fabricated sub-assemblies, then the threaded rod must be rotated into internal threads, but this increases assembly time and labor costs
Solution Approach 1:
The quick locking mechanism performs the threading action in advance by using spring-biased plunger pieces with internal threads that are pre-positioned to engage with the threaded rod. When the rod is inserted, the plunger pieces automatically move into engagement position, eliminating the need for time-consuming rotation during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is self-actuating through spring force that automatically drives the plunger pieces into engagement with the threaded rod upon insertion. The system serves itself by using the insertion motion to trigger the locking action without requiring external rotation or additional manual operations.
2Reliability
If the threaded rod is rotated into internal threads on mating parts, then secure connection is achieved, but this increases installation complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-biased plunger pieces automatically engage with the threaded rod through self-actuating motion driven by spring force. The system performs the locking action automatically upon insertion, eliminating the need for manual rotation operations and reducing installation complexity while maintaining secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual rotation operation is replaced by a spring-driven mechanical system that automatically drives the plunger pieces into engagement. This substitution transforms a manual rotational operation into an automatic linear engagement process, improving ease of operation while ensuring reliable connection.
3Productivity
If pre-fabricated sub-assemblies are used to maximize installation labor savings, then assembly efficiency improves, but the threaded rod cannot be adjusted without disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static locked state to a dynamic adjustable state. The spring-biased plunger pieces can be disengaged by applying force to the threaded rod, allowing height adjustment, and then re-engaged to lock in the new position. This dynamic capability enables adjustment while maintaining the benefits of pre-fabricated assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism allows preliminary positioning through easy insertion, followed by automatic locking. If adjustment is needed, the rod can be removed and reinserted at a different height, and the mechanism will again automatically lock. This preliminary action approach enables both efficient assembly and adaptability for height adjustments.
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
Enables efficient assembly of pre-fabricated sub-assemblies by eliminating the need for rotating threaded rods, reducing labor costs and improving installation efficiency while maintaining load ratings comparable to conventional methods.
Implementation Method 1
a spring within the tapered bore providing a spring force biasing the plunger pieces toward the narrow end of the tapered bore
Implementation Method 2
Contact between the outer surfaces of the plunger pieces and a bore surface at the narrow end of the tapered bore drives the plunger pieces toward one another and toward an axis of the tapered bore
Data Source
AI summary
A threaded rod hanger has quick lock plunger mechanism that includes plunger pieces within a tapered hole in a housing. The plunger pieces have tapered outer surfaces. A spring within the housing presses the plunger pieces toward the narrow end of the bore, with the spring located between the plunger pieces and a back plate that closes off part of a wide end of the tapered bore. The plunger pieces have internally threaded surfaces that engage threads on a threaded rod that is inserted into the bore, between the plunger pieces. Once the threaded rod has been inserted between the plunger pieces and released, the plunger pieces are pushed toward the narrow bore end. This causes the plunger pieces to press inward, automatically causing the internal plunger half threads to engage the external threads on the threaded rod.