X-Shaped Strut Hanger for Balanced Air Handler Weight Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a hanger or support for air handlers in HVAC systems that is inexpensive, easy to manufacture and assemble, yet sturdy enough to evenly distribute the weight of the air handler without tilting or flipping.
Innovation Solution
A hanger system comprising elongated struts forming an X-shape with a channel and fastener assembly to securely interconnect them, allowing for even weight distribution and preventing sliding, utilizing a nut and screw configuration for stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional hanger designs are used, then manufacturing and assembly may be simpler, but the hanger cannot evenly distribute the weight of the air handler, causing tilting or flipping
Solution Approach 1:
The hanger is divided into multiple modular components including struts, channels, and fastener assemblies that can be manufactured separately and assembled together. This segmentation allows for optimized weight distribution through the X-shaped configuration while keeping individual components simple and easy to manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The channel in the first strut is positioned asymmetrically to receive the second strut, creating an X-shaped configuration that provides balanced weight distribution. The asymmetric placement of the channel allows the second strut to be received at an optimized angle for even weight distribution across all support points.
2Reliability
If complex fastening mechanisms are used, then the struts can be securely interconnected, but manufacturing and assembly costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener assembly combines a fastener, washer, and channel into an integrated unit that simplifies the interconnection process. The channel is formed as part of the fastener assembly, eliminating the need for separate channel components and reducing the number of assembly steps while maintaining secure strut interconnection.
Solution Approach 2:
The channel in the first strut serves dual purposes: it receives the second strut for structural support and acts as the fastening mechanism itself. This self-service design eliminates the need for separate fastening components, reducing manufacturing complexity while ensuring reliable strut interconnection.
3Ease of manufacture
If the channel extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, then manufacturing is simpler, but the X-shape configuration and weight distribution are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The channel is designed to extend at an angle other than perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first strut. This parameter change in the channel orientation allows the second strut to be received at an optimized angle, creating the X-shaped configuration that provides balanced weight distribution and structural stability.
Data Source
AI summary
A hanger for suspending an air handler includes first and second elongate struts. The first strut defines a channel transversely therethrough configured for receipt of the second strut. A fastener assembly selectively fixes the second strut to the first strut.