Monolithic V-Shaped Mounting Clip for Fast Fixture Installation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mounting devices for commercial and industrial roofs and ceilings are costly, inefficient, and labor-intensive due to the need for mounting hardware and time-consuming installations.
Innovation Solution
A monolithically formed clip with a V-shaped body and flexible tabs, made from materials like steel or polymers, that can be installed without additional hardware, allowing for quick and efficient mounting by being compressed or placed over structural elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional mounting systems with hardware are used, then secure mounting is achieved, but installation time and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device merges the mounting clip and mounting hardware into a single integrated component. The tab portions are formed as integral parts of the clip body, eliminating the need for separate mounting hardware and reducing installation steps while maintaining secure mounting capability
Solution Approach 2:
The clip is segmented into functional zones: the V-shaped body for fixture engagement, tab portions for structural attachment, and bend regions for flexibility. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function efficiently without requiring additional components
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional mounting systems with multiple components are used, then mounting capability is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single clip component performs multiple functions: the V-shaped body mounts fixtures, the tab portions attach to structural elements, and the flexible bends allow adaptation to different installation configurations. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate components while maintaining versatile mounting capability
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional elements (clip body, mounting tabs, flexible joints) are merged into a single monolithic component, reducing device complexity from multiple parts to one integrated piece that maintains all necessary mounting capabilities
3Strength
If rigid mounting hardware is used, then structural strength is achieved, but ease of installation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The clip incorporates flexible bend regions that allow the rigid tab portions to be positioned and shaped during installation, then maintain their position under load. This dynamic flexibility during installation followed by rigid strength during operation resolves the contradiction between ease of installation and mounting strength
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 rapid installation of fixtures to roofs and ceilings with reduced labor and material costs, eliminating the need for additional tools and reducing the opportunity cost of tradesmen's time.
Implementation Method 1
The monolithically formed clip can be formed from rigid yet flexible materials, such as steel, or other metals, or polymers
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting clip and method of use are provided. The mounting clip is monolithically formed and includes a plurality of bends defining portions of the clip. The mounting clip has a first bend at a midpoint between the first end and the second end of the material that defines a substantially V-shaped body. Each of the first end and the second end defines a tab portion where a first tab portion is defined by a bend a first distance from the first end and a second tab portion is defined by a bend a second distance from the end. To use the mounting clip a user can mount a portion of a fixture in the first bend and can secure the clip to a structure utilizing each of the tab portions.