Trapeze Hanger Fitting for Single-Person Strut Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional trapeze hanger systems are time-consuming to assemble and often require multiple installers, increasing installation costs due to the need for multiple struts and complex securing mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A trapeze hanger system featuring a strut connecting portion that inserts into the strut's open interior through one of its longitudinal ends, with a rod securement portion positioned outside the strut, allowing for securement to a threaded rod without passing through the channel, enabling easier assembly and single-person installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional trapeze hanger systems use struts with threaded rods passing through the channel and nut/washer sets for securing, then the system provides reliable structural support, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and requires multiple installers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the strut connection function and rod securement function into a single integrated fitting component. The fitting includes a strut receiving portion that inserts into the strut channel and a rod securement portion with an integrated nut mechanism, eliminating the need for separate nut/washer assemblies and reducing the number of components that need to be manually assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting is divided into distinct functional portions: a strut receiving portion for insertion into the strut channel and a rod securement portion for engaging the threaded rod. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function while being manufactured as a single integrated component, simplifying the assembly process.
2Reliability
If conventional systems use complex securing mechanisms with multiple nuts and washers, then the connection is secure, but the device complexity increases and installation becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the nut function and washer function into a single integrated rod securement portion of the fitting. The fitting includes an integrated nut mechanism that directly engages the threaded rod, eliminating the need for separate washers and multiple nuts, thereby reducing component complexity while maintaining secure connection.
3Length of stationary object
If long struts are used in the trapeze hanger system, then the span coverage is improved, but the assembly requires at least two installers, increasing labor costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple securing operations into a single integrated fitting that can be installed by one person. The fitting simultaneously provides strut channel insertion and rod thread engagement, eliminating the need for multiple installers to handle long struts and reducing the physical effort required for assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
A trapeze hanger fitting includes a strut connecting portion configured for insertion into an open interior of a strut through an open longitudinal end of the strut to connect the trapeze hanger fitting to the strut. A rod securement portion is connected to the strut connecting portion and configured for securement to a rod to secure the trapeze hanger fitting to the rod. The rod securement portion is configured to be disposed outside the open interior of the strut and longitudinally outward from the open longitudinal end of the strut when the strut connecting portion is inserted into the open interior of the strut.