Twist-Locking Fitting for Single-Person Strut Assembly
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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 of varying lengths.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a twist-locking fitting system that includes first and second fitting pieces with half-nut portions, inner and outer flanges, allowing for secure attachment of struts to rods through a rotatable mechanism, enabling quick and single-person assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional nut/washer sets are used to secure struts to threaded rods, then the connection is reliable, but the assembly process is time-consuming and requires multiple installers
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting is divided into two separate pieces: an outer fitting piece with an outer flange and a inner fitting piece with an inner flange. These segments can be independently positioned on the strut before being twisted together, allowing for easier handling and faster assembly while maintaining secure connection when locked in place
2Reliability
If conventional nut/washer sets are used to secure struts to threaded rods, then the connection is secure, but the assembly requires at least two installers
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting pieces transition from a static assembly process (requiring multiple workers to hold and tighten simultaneously) to a dynamic twisting motion. The inner fitting piece rotates relative to the outer fitting piece, converting a complex multi-person operation into a simple single-person twisting action that secures the connection progressively
3Adaptability or versatility
If struts of varying lengths are used to accommodate different installation needs, then the system is adaptable, but the inventory complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The twist-locking fitting design creates a universal connection system that can accommodate various strut lengths and configurations through the same fitting mechanism. The modular two-piece fitting can be installed on any strut-rod connection, eliminating the need for specialized hardware for different strut lengths and reducing inventory complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A twist-locking fitting for securing a strut to a rod includes first and second fitting pieces. Each fitting piece includes a half-nut portion having an interior surface defining an axis extending through first and second axial ends of the half-nut portion. Each fitting piece includes an outer flange extending outward from adjacent the first axial end of the half-nut portion and an inner flange extending outward from adjacent the second axial end of the half-nut portion. The inner flange is spaced axially apart from the outer flange to define a clearance gap. The fitting pieces are positionable on the strut in an unsecured position in which the fitting pieces are movable relative to one another. The fitting pieces are rotatable relative to the strut to move from the unsecured position to a secured position, in which the fitting pieces are fixed relative to one another on the strut.