Adjustable mirror mounting device

Abstract

An adjustable mounting device for suspending an object from a vertical structure is described. In one example, an adjustable mounting device includes a body section having a first track member slidably positioned within a second track member; a bottom section coupled to the second rail member; and a top section rotatably coupled to the first rail member at a pivot point. The top section is at least partially rotatable about a pivot point and includes: a plate extending from one end of the top section; guide holes formed on a common centerline through the plate, the common centerline extending through a center of each guide hole; and an alignment device operable to align the common centerline with the defined plane. The first track member and the second track member may be cooperatively operated to slide the bottom section and the top section in opposite linear directions to adjust a distance between the bottom section and the common centerline.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 582,030, entitled "Adjustable Mirror Mounting Device," filed September 12, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] Various objects or structures can be mounted on walls or other vertical structures. For example, mounting components such as French cleats or equivalent mounting units can be used to mount various objects and structures to walls. These mounting components include wall-side brackets and object-side brackets. Traditionally, various measuring instruments and levels are used to install wall-side brackets. This process is prone to causing the suspension to be uneven and the spacing of screws or other attachment mechanisms to be inaccurate. Background Technology Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention relates to embodiments of an adjustable mounting device and a method of operating the device, which can be used to suspend various objects on a surface. The adjustable mounting device can be implemented as a multi-tool device, including different combinations of various mounting devices or systems (e.g., templates or clamps, alignment devices and distance measuring systems, and other mounting tools). The adjustable mounting device can be used to suspend various objects on walls or other vertical or near-vertical structures, such as mirrors, artwork, canvases, photographs, tapestries, frames (e.g., framed mirrors, artwork, canvases, photographs, tapestries, etc.), wall decorations, shelves or cabinets, and other objects.

[0006] Aspects and advantages of embodiments of this disclosure will be set forth in part in the detailed description which follows, or may be learned from the detailed description or by practice of the embodiments. Other aspects and advantages of embodiments of this disclosure will become more readily apparent from the appended claims and drawings, all of which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of this disclosure and, together with the detailed description, serve to explain the relevant concepts of this disclosure.

[0007] According to an exemplary embodiment, the adjustable mounting device includes a body segment comprising a first track member slidably positioned within a second track member. The adjustable mounting device also includes a bottom segment coupled to the second track member. The adjustable mounting device further includes a top segment rotatably coupled to the first track member at a pivot point located between a first end and a second end of the top segment. The top segment is at least partially rotatable about the pivot point. The top segment includes a plurality of plates extending from a second end of the top segment. The top segment also includes a plurality of guide holes formed through the plurality of plates on a common centerline extending along the second end of the top segment and passing through the center of each of the plurality of guide holes. The top segment also includes an alignment device operable to align the common centerline with a defined plane based on at least partial rotation of the top segment about the pivot point. The first and second track members can be operated collectively to slide the bottom and top segments in opposite linear directions, thereby adjusting the distance between one end of the bottom segment and the common centerline.

[0008] According to another exemplary embodiment, a method of mounting an object onto a surface using an adjustable mounting device includes positioning the respective surface-facing sides of a base plate and a top plate of the adjustable mounting device against the surface. The method further includes moving the base plate and the top plate along the surface in opposite linear directions to adjust the distance between the base plate and the top plate. The method also includes fixing the base plate and the top plate relative to each other with a defined distance between them. The method further includes rotating the top plate relative to the base plate to align a centerline of a guide hole on the top plate with a defined plane. The centerline of the guide hole extends through the center of a plurality of guide holes formed through the top plate.

[0009] According to another example embodiment, the adjustable mounting device includes a first track member slidably positioned within a second track member. The adjustable mounting device also includes a bottom section coupled to the second track member. The adjustable mounting device also includes a top section rotatably coupled to the first track member at a pivot point located on the top section. The top section is at least partially rotatable relative to the first track member about the pivot point. The top section includes a plurality of guide holes formed along a guide hole centerline extending through the center of each of the guide holes. The top section also includes a plane alignment device coupled to the top section. The plane alignment device includes a leveling reference line parallel to the guide hole centerline. The plane alignment device can be operated to align both the leveling reference line and the guide hole centerline with a defined plane based on at least partial rotation of the top section relative to the first track member about the pivot point. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Several aspects of this disclosure can be better understood with reference to the following figures. The components in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale, but the emphasis is on clearly illustrating the concepts of this disclosure. Furthermore, repeated reference numerals or numbers in the figures are intended to indicate the same or similar features, elements, or operations in different figures. For the sake of brevity, repeated descriptions of these repeated reference numerals or numbers are omitted.

[0011] Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C The front view, side view and orthographic view of an exemplary adjustable mounting device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention are shown respectively.

[0012] Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2C A front view, a side view, and an orthographic view of another exemplary adjustable mounting device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention are shown respectively.

[0013] Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C A front view, a side view, and an orthographic view of another exemplary adjustable mounting device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention are shown respectively.

[0014] Figure 4 The use according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C A flowchart illustrating an example method of mounting an object onto a surface using an adjustable mounting device. Detailed Implementation

[0015] This document describes an adjustable mounting device for suspending various objects (e.g., mirrors, artworks, canvases, photographs, tapestries, frames (e.g., framed mirrors, artworks, canvases, photographs, tapestries, etc.), wall decorations, shelves or cabinets, and other objects) on a wall or other vertical or near-vertical structure. Compared to existing mounting devices, the adjustable mounting device of this invention can be embodied and implemented as an adjustable wall-mounting template or clamp, which can be used to install one or more objects at one or more specific locations on a wall in a more precise and convenient manner. In embodiments described herein, the adjustable mounting device can be embodied as a multi-tool device, including different combinations of various mounting devices or systems (e.g., templates or clamps, alignment devices and distance measurement systems, and other mounting tools). Compared to existing mounting devices that include multi-tool devices, the adjustable mounting device described herein provides, in certain situations, more precise and convenient installation of various objects, including wall hardware, because it eliminates the need for independent and continuous use of individual mounting tools. Furthermore, adjustable mounting devices allow for the simultaneous operation, adjustment, and / or connection of two or more of their components, thereby facilitating the relatively rapid installation of various objects in any or predetermined location compared to existing mounting devices that include multi-tools.

[0016] In some examples, adjustable mounting devices can be used to mount objects (such as mirrors or framed mirrors) at any location on a wall. In other examples, adjustable mounting devices can be used to mount objects (such as mirrors or framed mirrors) at a specific location on a wall relative to one or more reference points. Examples of such reference points include the location of adjacent walls, floors, ceilings, or trim strips, the location of another object already mounted on the wall (e.g., another mirror or framed mirror), another reference point, or any combination of the above.

[0017] One advantage of adjustable mounting devices is the ability to precisely mount several different objects to a wall according to a symmetrical or asymmetrical arrangement. Compared to existing mounting devices that include multi-tools, the adjustable wall-mounting templates and clamps of adjustable mounting devices provide more precise attachment to such specific symmetrical or asymmetrical arrangements. Furthermore, the relatively lightweight materials and easy-to-use components of adjustable mounting devices offer improvements in portability and operability compared to existing devices. For example, adjustable mounting devices and / or one or more of their components can be manufactured and assembled using any number of materials, including but not limited to plastics, metals (e.g., brass, aluminum, etc.), metal alloys, polymer composites, or wood, among others. Moreover, the relatively simple design of the adjustable mounting devices described herein improves functionality and durability while simplifying the manufacture and assembly of the devices, thereby contributing to reduced production costs.

[0018] In several examples described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings, the adjustable mounting device is embodied and implemented as an adjustable framed mirror mounting device for suspending a framed mirror, although this disclosure is not limited thereto. The adjustable mounting device described herein can be embodied and implemented as an adjustable mounting device for suspending any of the aforementioned wall-mounted objects or structures, with or without modifications to any of the examples herein. All such variations are within the scope of the intent and protection of this disclosure.

[0019] Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C Front, side, and orthographic views of an exemplary adjustable mounting device 100 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure are shown. The adjustable mounting device 100 may be embodied and implemented as an adjustable wall-mounting template or clamp, which, compared to existing mounting devices, can be used to mount one or more objects at one or more specific locations on a wall or other vertical or near-vertical structure in a more precise and convenient manner.

[0020] exist Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C In the example shown, the adjustable mounting device 100 embodies a multi-tool device, including exemplary combinations of certain mounting devices and systems further described herein. Compared to existing mounting devices that include multi-tool devices, the adjustable mounting device 100 provides, in certain cases, more precise and convenient installation of various objects, including wall hardware, because it eliminates the need for independent and continuous use of individual mounting tools. Furthermore, the adjustable mounting device 100 allows for the simultaneous operation, adjustment, and / or coupling of two or more of its components, thereby facilitating the relatively rapid installation of various objects in any or predetermined location compared to existing mounting devices that include multi-tool devices.

[0021] In one example, the adjustable mounting device 100 can be used to mount an object (e.g., a mirror, framed mirror, frame, canvas, television, television bracket, or similar object) at any location on a wall. In another example, the adjustable mounting device 100 can be used to mount an object (e.g., a mirror, framed mirror, frame, canvas, television, television bracket, or similar object) at a specific location on a wall. In this example, the mounting location of the object can be preset based on one or more reference points. Examples of such reference points include, but are not limited to, the location of adjacent walls, floors, ceilings, or decorative strips, the location of another object already mounted on the wall (e.g., another mirror), another reference point, or any combination thereof.

[0022] refer to Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1CThe example depicted shows an adjustable mounting device 100 that generally includes a main body section 102, a bottom section 104, and a top section 106. The main body section 102 includes a first track member 108 (collectively referred to as "track members 108, 110") slidably positioned within a second track member 110. In this example, the first track member 108 is embodied and implemented as an inner T-shaped track, and the second track member 110 is embodied and implemented as an outer T-shaped track, although in some cases, one or both of the track members 108, 110 may be implemented by other sliding or telescopic components. The track members 108, 110 can be operated cooperatively such that the bottom section 104 and the top section 106 are aligned along the longitudinal axis A of the main body section 102. L Sliding in opposite linear directions adjusts the distance D1 between the respective ends of the bottom section 104 and the top section 106. In some embodiments, the adjustable mounting device 100 may include one or more drives or transmission systems coupled to either or both of the track members 108, 110. One or both of the track members 108, 110 may be driven by at least one of an electric drive (e.g., an electric motor drive system), a pneumatic drive (e.g., a positive displacement drive system), a mechanical drive (e.g., a gear, pulley, hand crank), or by another type of drive (in the example where one or more such drives are coupled to either or both of the track members 108, 110).

[0023] The bottom section 104 includes a base plate 112 connected to the first end of the second track member 110. Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C In the example shown, the first and second ends of the base plate 112 are at least partially connected to the first end of the second track member 110 by fasteners (e.g., threaded post and nut assembly, although in some cases they may be connected by another coupling mechanism).

[0024] Top segment 106 includes a top plate 114 rotatably coupled to a first end of a first track member 108. In this example, the top plate 114 is rotatably coupled to the first end of the first track member 108 at a pivot point 109 located between the first and second ends of the top plate 114. In this example, the top plate 114 and top segment 106 are at least partially rotatable about the pivot point 109. Top segment 106 also includes one or more plates 116 (or “plates 116”) extending from the second end of the top plate 114. Top segment 106 also includes one or more guide holes 118 (or “guide holes 118”). In some embodiments, the guide holes 118 are formed through the plates 116 along a common shared centerline. On the top plate 114, the centerline extends along the second end of the top plate 114 and passes through the center of each guide hole 118. Each guide hole 118 is configured to receive and guide, for example, a drill bit, punch, nail, pencil mark, or another component. The top section 106 also includes a recessed area 120 formed along the second end of the top plate 114 between the pairs of individual plates 116. For clarity, Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C Only a single plate 116, a single guide hole 118, and a single recessed area 120 are marked, but it should be understood that other numbers of such structures may be provided.

[0025] exist Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C In the example shown, the centers of the individual plates 116 are spaced apart from each other by a distance D2 along the second end of the top plate 114. In some examples, the individual plates 116 are equidistant from each other along the second end of the top plate 114. In other examples, the distance between at least one pair of plates 116 and each other differs from the distance between at least another pair of plates 116 and each other. In one example, the centers of the individual plates 116 are spaced apart from each other by 4 inches (10.16 cm) along the second end of the top plate 114, although it is understood that other dimensions may be used.

[0026] exist Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C In the example shown, the centers of each guide hole 118 are also spaced apart from each other by a distance D2 along the second end of the top plate 114. In some examples, the guide holes 118 are equidistant from each other along the second end of the top plate 114. In other examples, the distance between at least one pair of guide holes 118 and each other is different from the distance between at least another pair of guide holes 118. In one example, the centers of the guide holes 118 are spaced apart from each other by 4 inches (10.16 cm) along the second end of the top plate 114.

[0027] exist Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C In the example shown, the centers of the respective recessed regions 120 are spaced apart from each other by a distance D3 along the second end of the top plate 114. In some examples, the respective recessed regions 120 are equidistant from each other along the second end of the top plate 114. In other examples, the distance between at least one pair of recessed regions 120 and each other differs from the distance between at least another pair of recessed regions 120. In one example, the centers of the respective recessed regions 120 are spaced apart from each other by 4 inches along the second end of the top plate 114.

[0028] exist Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C In the example shown, the top section 106 also includes a planar alignment device 122 coupled to the top plate 114. In this example, the planar alignment device 122 is coupled to one of a plurality of plates 116 extending from the top plate 114. In this example, the planar alignment device 122 is coupled to the plate 116 in such an orientation that at least one of the longitudinal centerline or the leveling reference line of the planar alignment device 122 is aligned with a common centerline passing through the center of the guide hole 118. Alignment and / or parallelism. In other examples, the planar alignment device 122 may be coupled to another portion of the top segment 106, or to... Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C Different orientations and positioning are shown. The planar alignment device 122 can be operated to rotate at least partially around the pivot point 109 based on the top plate 114 to align its own longitudinal centerline or leveling reference line and common centerline. Alignment with a defined plane. In one example, the plane alignment device 122 is embodied and implemented as a level, such as a bubble level (also referred to as a "level"), which can be operated to align its own longitudinal centerline or leveling reference line with the common centerline of the guide hole 118 based on at least a partial rotation of the top plate 114 about the pivot point 109. Align with the horizontal plane. As described herein, the “leveling baseline” is an inherent baseline of the plane alignment device and indicates when the centerline of the device lies in a defined plane (e.g., a specific horizontal or vertical plane).

[0029] To allow the top plate 114 to rotate at least partially about a pivot point 109, the top plate 114 is rotatably coupled to the first track member 108 at the pivot point 109 via a rotatable connector and clamping unit 124. In various examples, the rotatable connector and clamping unit 124 can be operated to allow the top plate 114 to rotate at least partially about the pivot point 109 relative to at least one of the body segment 102, bottom segment 104, first track member 108, second track member 110, or bottom plate 112. In these examples, the rotatable connector and clamping unit 124 can also be operated to fix the top plate 114 and the top segment 106 at a defined angular position about the pivot point 109 relative to at least one of the body segment 102, bottom segment 104, first track member 108, second track member 110, or bottom plate 112.

[0030] exist Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1CIn the example shown, the rotatable connector and clamping unit 124 includes a first threaded post 126 extending from the top plate 114 and passing through a pivot hole (not shown) formed through the first track member 108. In this example, the longitudinal axis of the first threaded post 126 is aligned with and extends perpendicularly through the pivot point 109. The rotatable connector and clamping unit 124 in the example also includes a lock nut 128 threaded onto the first threaded post 126. In this example, the rotatable connector and clamping unit 124 also includes a threaded clamping handle 132 threaded onto a second threaded post 130 extending from the top plate 114 and passing through a groove (not shown) formed through the first track member 108. In this example, the first threaded post 126 and the locking nut 128 can be operated cooperatively to allow the top section 106 and the top plate 114 to rotate at least partially about a pivot point 109 relative to at least one of the body section 102, the bottom section 104, the first track member 108, the second track member 110, or the base plate 112. Furthermore, in this example, the second threaded post 130 and the threaded clamping handle 132 can be operated cooperatively to fix the top section 106 at a defined angular position about a pivot point 109 relative to at least one of the body section 102, the bottom section 104, the first track member 108, the second track member 110, or the base plate 112.

[0031] In the example shown, the main body segment 102 also includes a slidable connector and clamping unit 134, which can be operated to fix the first track member 108 relative to the second track member 110 in a defined linear position. For example, the slidable connector and clamping unit 134 can be operated to fix the first track member 108 along the longitudinal axis A of the main body segment 102. L The positioning is limited to a linear location.

[0032] exist Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C In the example shown, the slidable connector and clamping unit 134 includes a threaded post 136. The threaded post 136 protrudes from the first track member 108 and passes through a groove that passes through and forms along the second track member 110. In this example, the slidable connector and clamping unit 134 also includes a threaded clamping handle 138 threadedly connected to the threaded post 136. The threaded post 136 and the threaded clamping handle 138 can be operated cooperatively to secure the first track member 108 along the longitudinal axis A of the body segment 102. LThe defined linear position of the first track member 108 is fixed relative to the second track member 110. The first track member 108, the second track member 110, and the slidable connector and clamping unit 134 can be operated cooperatively to make the bottom section 104 and the top section 106 along the longitudinal axis A. L They slide in opposite linear directions. In this way, the first track member 108, the second track member 110, and the threaded clamping handle 138 can be operated collaboratively to adjust the distance D1 between the respective ends of the bottom section 104 and the top section 106. Similarly, the first track member 108, the second track member 110, and the threaded clamping handle 138 can be operated collaboratively to adjust the second end of the bottom section 104 relative to the common centerline. The distance between them.

[0033] In the example shown, surface 140 of base plate 112 and surface 142 of top plate 114 are both located on the same side of adjustable mounting device 100. Surfaces 140 of base plate 112 and 142 of top plate 114 both face the same direction. Surfaces 140 of base plate 112 and 142 of top plate 114 both lie in a cooperatively shared plane (e.g., a vertical plane parallel to a wall or other vertical structure used to mount objects). In the example shown, adjustable mounting device 100 may also include a handle 144 connected to at least one of body section 102, first track member 108, or second track member 110.

[0034] Despite Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C Not shown in the example, but in some cases, the adjustable mounting device 100 may also include one or more pads (e.g., foam pads, rubber pads) respectively connected to the surface 140 of the base plate 112 and the surface 142 of the top plate 114. Furthermore, although not shown in... Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C As shown in the example, but in some cases, the adjustable mounting device 100 may also include at least one distance measuring system for measuring linear and / or angular distances (e.g., rotational distances). For example, the adjustable mounting device 100 may include at least one ruler, protractor, or other distance measuring system attached to or marked on at least one of the base plate 112, top plate 114, first track member 108, second track member 110, or another component of the adjustable mounting device 100. In at least one example, such linear and / or angular distance measuring systems may be attached to, printed onto, or etched onto one or more surfaces of any or all such components of the adjustable mounting device 100.

[0035] Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2C Front, side, and orthographic views of another exemplary adjustable mounting device 200 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure are shown, respectively. This document describes and... Figures 2A to 2C The adjustable mounting device 200 shown is the one described above and is... Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C An exemplary alternative embodiment of the adjustable mounting device 100 is shown. The adjustable mounting device 200 includes a rotatable connector and clamping unit 224, replacing the rotatable connector and clamping unit 124 of the adjustable mounting device 100. The rotatable connector and clamping unit 224 of the adjustable mounting device 200 is an exemplary alternative embodiment of the rotatable connector and clamping unit 124 of the adjustable mounting device 100. The rotatable connector and clamping unit 224 includes a threaded manual knob 232, replacing the threaded clamping handle 132, threadedly connected to a second threaded post 130. Figures 2A to 2C In the example shown, the second threaded post 130 and the threaded manual knob 232 can be operated in concert to fix the top section 106 and the top plate 114 at a defined angular position relative to at least one of the main body section 102, the bottom section 104, the first track member 108, the second track member 110, or the bottom plate 112 about the pivot point 109.

[0036] Adjustable mounting device 200 includes a slidable connector and clamping unit 234, replacing the slidable connector and clamping unit 134 of adjustable mounting device 100. The slidable connector and clamping unit 234 of adjustable mounting device 200 is an exemplary alternative embodiment of the slidable connector and clamping unit 134 of adjustable mounting device 100. The slidable connector and clamping unit 234 includes a threaded manual knob 238, replacing the threaded clamping handle 138, threadedly connected to a threaded post 136. Figures 2A to 2C In the example shown, the threaded post 136 and the threaded manual knob 238 can be operated collaboratively to move the first track member 108 relative to the second track member 110 along the longitudinal axis A of the body segment 102. L Fixed at a defined linear position.

[0037] Adjustable mounting device 200 includes a plane alignment device 222, replacing the plane alignment device 122 of adjustable mounting device 100. The plane alignment device 222 of adjustable mounting device 200 is an exemplary alternative embodiment of the plane alignment device 122 of adjustable mounting device 100. The plane alignment device 222 is located between a first end and a second end of top plate 114, rather than on one of a plurality of plates 116 extending from the second end of top plate 114. Furthermore, the plane alignment device 222 is oriented to top plate 114 in such a way that at least one of the longitudinal centerline or leveling reference line of the plane alignment device 222 is deviated from and parallel to the common centerline of guide holes 118. rather than the public center line Alignment and parallelism. The plane alignment device 222 can be operated to rotate at least partially around the pivot point 109 based on the top plate 114, aligning its own longitudinal centerline or leveling reference line with the common centerline. Alignment with a defined plane. In one example, the plane alignment device 222 is embodied and implemented as a level, such as a bubble level (also referred to as a "level"), which can be operated to align its own longitudinal centerline or leveling reference line with the common centerline of the guide hole 118 based on at least a partial rotation of the top plate 114 about the pivot point 109. Align with the horizontal plane.

[0038] The adjustable mounting device 200 includes one or more pads 250 (e.g., foam pads, rubber pads) that are respectively attached to the surface 140 of the base plate 112 and the surface 142 of the top plate 114. The adjustable mounting device 200 includes a handle 244 that is attached to at least one of the main body section 102, the first track member 108, or the second track member 110.

[0039] The adjustable mounting device 200 includes distance measuring systems 252 and 254 for measuring linear distances. In the example shown, both distance measuring systems 252 and 254 are embodied and implemented as rulers (e.g., measuring tapes). Distance measuring system 252 is coupled to or formed (e.g., etched, printed) on the surface of base plate 112. Distance measuring system 254 is coupled to or formed (e.g., etched, printed) on the surface of first track member 108. Distance measuring system 254 can be operated to measure the distances of track members 108 and 110 along the longitudinal axis A of body segment 102. L The distance measurement system 254 can also be operated along the longitudinal axis A of the main body segment 102, relative to various linear positions of each other. L Adjust the linear position of track components 108 and 110 relative to each other to adjust the distance D1 between the corresponding ends of the bottom plate 112 and the top plate 114.

[0040] Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C A front view, a side view, and an orthographic view of another exemplary adjustable mounting device 300 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure are shown, respectively. (Described herein and...) Figures 3A to 3C The adjustable mounting device 300 shown is the one described above. Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2C An exemplary alternative embodiment of the adjustable mounting device 200 shown is presented. The adjustable mounting device 300 includes a handle unit 348 instead of a handle 144. The handle unit 348 in the illustrated example includes a handle support plate 346 extending from one side of the second track member 110 and a handle 344 coupled to the handle support plate 346. The handle support plate 346 extends from the side of the second track member 110, the plane of which is parallel to the plane containing at least one of the surfaces 140 of the base plate 112 or 142 of the top plate 114. In some embodiments, the handle support plate 346 may extend from the side of the second track member 110 and lie in the same plane as at least one of the surfaces 140 of the base plate 112 or 142 of the top plate 114. The handle 344 is coupled to the handle support plate 346 such that the centerline of the handle 344 is offset from and parallel to the centerline (e.g., longitudinal axis A) of at least one of the first track member 108 or the second track member 110 in the illustrated example. L In other examples, with Figures 3A to 3C Compared to the orientation shown, the handle 344 can be connected to the handle support plate 346 in a different orientation.

[0041] The top plate 114 of the adjustable mounting device 300 includes five guide holes 118, compared to four guide holes on the top plate 114 of the adjustable mounting device 200. The top plate 114 of the adjustable mounting device 300 includes four recessed areas 120, compared to three recessed areas on the top plate 114 of the adjustable mounting device 200.

[0042] Figure 4 A flowchart of an example method 400 for mounting an object to a surface using an adjustable mounting device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention is shown. Method 400 can be implemented using any one of adjustable mounting devices 100, 200, 300 to mount an object at a specific location on a wall or other vertical or near-vertical structure.

[0043] At 402, method 400 includes positioning the respective surface-facing sides of the base plate and top plate of the adjustable mounting device against a surface. For example, at 402, method 400 may include positioning the surface 140 of the base plate 112 and the surface 142 of the top plate 114 of any one of the adjustable mounting devices 100, 200, 300 against a wall surface.

[0044] At 404, method 400 includes moving the base plate and top plate along the surface in opposite linear directions to adjust the distance between the base plate and the top plate. For example, at 404, method 400 may include moving a first track member 108 of any one of the adjustable mounting devices 100, 200, 300 along the longitudinal axis A relative to the second track member 110. L It moves in the opposite linear direction to adjust the linear distance between the base plate 112 and the top plate 114. In some examples, the base plate 112 may be located on top of the room floor, baseboard, or similar component.

[0045] At 406, method 400 includes fixing the base plate and top plate relative to each other with a defined distance between them. For example, at 406, method 400 may include positioning the first track member 108 and the second track member 110 along a common centerline of the second end of the pedal 112 and the guide hole 118. The track members 108 and 110 are fixed in place relative to each other at a defined linear distance. In one example, the track members 108 and 110 can be fixed in place relative to each other at a defined linear distance, which is determined using a distance measuring system 254, and the track members 108 and 110 are fixed in place at such a distance using a sliding connector and clamping unit 134 or 234.

[0046] At 408, method 400 includes rotating the top plate relative to the bottom plate to align the center line of the guide holes 118 on the top plate with the defining plane. For example, at 408, method 400 may include rotating the top plate 114 relative to the bottom plate 112 about a pivot point 109 to align the common center line of the guide holes 118 on the top plate 114. Alignment with a defined horizontal plane. In one example, method 400 at 408 may include aligning the longitudinal centerline or leveling reference line of the plane alignment device 122 with a specific horizontal plane based on such rotation of the top plate 114. In this example, at 408, method 400 may also include aligning the common centerline of the guide holes 118 at least in part based on aligning the longitudinal centerline or leveling reference line of the plane alignment device 122 with the horizontal plane. Aligned with this horizontal plane. At 408, method 400 may also include, in this example, at least partially based on the common centerline of the guide hole 118. Aligning with this horizontal plane, the top plate 114 and the first track member 108 are fixed relative to each other at a defined angular position. In one example, a rotatable connector and clamping unit 124 or 224 are used so that the top plate 114 and the first track member 108 can be fixed in place relative to each other at a defined angle θ.

[0047] In some examples, method 400 may further include performing a hardware mounting process to mount an object support component onto a surface using at least one of a plurality of guide holes formed along the centerline of the guide holes through the top plate. For example, method 400 may also include performing a hardware mounting process to mount an object support component onto a surface using any one or all of the guide holes 118. In various examples, performing such a hardware mounting process may include at least one of the following operations: marking the surface at a location corresponding to the center of one of the guide holes 118 (e.g., using a pencil or pen); drilling a hole in the surface at a location corresponding to the center of one of the guide holes 118 (e.g., using an electric drill and drill bit); or installing a nail or screw in the surface at a location corresponding to the center of one of the guide holes 118 (e.g., using a hammer, screwdriver, or electric drill).

[0048] Unless otherwise expressly stated, selection conjunctions such as “at least one X, Y, or Z” should be understood in context as meaning that an item, term, etc., can be any one of X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof (e.g., X, Y, and / or Z). Therefore, such selection conjunctions are generally not, and should not be construed as, implying that a particular embodiment must simultaneously include at least one X, at least one Y, and at least one Z. In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are intended to mean “at least one” and not “only one” in terms of quantity.

[0049] As indicated herein, the terms “include, include, including” are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising,” and the terms “or” and “and / or” are generally intended to be inclusive, i.e., “A or B” or “A and / or B” are intended to mean “A or B or both.” As indicated herein, the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., are used interchangeably to distinguish one component or entity from another, and are not intended to indicate the location, function, or importance of an independent component or entity. As described herein, the terms “couple, couples, coupled” and / or “coupling” refer to chemical coupling (e.g., chemical bonding), communication coupling, electrical and / or electromagnetic coupling (e.g., capacitive coupling, inductive coupling, direct and / or interconnect coupling), mechanical coupling, operative coupling, optical coupling, and / or physical coupling.

[0050] It should be emphasized that the above embodiments of this disclosure are merely possible embodiments described for the purpose of clearly understanding the principles of this disclosure. Many variations and modifications can be made to the above(one or more) embodiments without substantially departing from the spirit and principles of this disclosure. All such modifications and variations are included within the scope of this disclosure and are protected by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An adjustable mounting device, comprising: The main body includes a first track member that can be slidably positioned within a second track member; The bottom section connects to the second track component; as well as A top segment, rotatably connected to the first track member at a pivot point located between a first end and a second end of the top segment, the top segment being at least partially rotatable about the pivot point, the top segment comprising: Multiple plates extend from the second end of the top section; A plurality of guide holes are formed along a common center line, passing through the plurality of plates; the common center line extends along the second end of the top segment and passes through the center of each of the plurality of guide holes; and The alignment device is operable to align the common centerline with a defined plane based on at least a partial rotation of the top segment about the pivot point. The first track member and the second track member can be operated in concert to make the bottom segment and the top segment slide in opposite linear directions, thereby adjusting the distance between one end of the bottom segment and the common center line.

2. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 1, wherein, The plates in the plurality of plates are equidistant from each other along the second end of the top section.

3. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 1, wherein, The centers of each of the plurality of plates are spaced 4 inches apart from each other along the second end of the top section.

4. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the plurality of guide holes is equidistant from each other along the second end of the top section.

5. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 1, wherein, The centers of each of the plurality of guide holes are spaced 4 inches apart along the second end of the top section.

6. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 1, wherein, The top section also includes a recessed region formed along a second end of the top section between pairs of plates in the plurality of plates.

7. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 6, wherein, The recessed areas in the recessed region are equidistant from each other along the second end of the top segment.

8. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 6, wherein, The centers of the recessed areas in the recessed region are spaced 4 inches apart from each other along the second end of the top segment.

9. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 1, wherein, The first track component includes an inner T-shaped track, and the second track component includes an outer T-shaped track.

10. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 1, wherein, The top segment is rotatably connected to the first track member at the pivot point via a rotatable connector and clamping unit, the rotatable connector and clamping unit being operable to allow the top segment to rotate at least partially about the pivot point relative to at least one of the first track member or the bottom segment.

11. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 10, wherein, The rotatable connector and clamping unit can also be operated to fix the top segment at a defined angular position relative to at least one of the first track member or the bottom segment about the pivot point.

12. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 11, wherein, The rotatable connector and clamping unit include: A first threaded post protrudes from the top section and passes through a pivot hole formed through the first track member. The first threaded post has a longitudinal axis aligned with the pivot point and extending through the pivot point at a right angle. A lock nut is threaded onto the first threaded post; A second threaded post protrudes from the top section and passes through a groove formed through the first track member; and A threaded clamping handle is threaded onto the second threaded post. The first threaded post and the locking nut can be operated cooperatively to allow the top section to rotate at least partially relative to the first track member about the pivot point, and The second threaded post and the threaded clamping handle can be operated in concert to fix the top section relative to the first track member about the pivot point at the defined angular position.

13. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 11, wherein, The rotatable connector and clamping unit include: A first threaded post protrudes from the top section and passes through a pivot hole formed through the first track member. The first threaded post has a longitudinal axis aligned with the pivot point and extending through the pivot point at a right angle. A lock nut is threaded onto the first threaded post; A second threaded post protrudes from the top section and passes through a groove formed through the first track member; and A threaded manual knob, threaded onto the second threaded post. The first threaded post and the locking nut can be operated cooperatively to allow the top section to rotate at least partially relative to the first track member about the pivot point, and The second threaded post and the threaded manual knob can be operated in concert to fix the top section relative to the first track member about the pivot point at the defined angular position.

14. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 1, wherein, The main body section also includes a slidable connector and clamping unit, which can be operated to fix the first track member relative to the second track member in a defined linear position.

15. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 14, wherein, The sliding connector and clamping unit include: A threaded post protrudes from the first track member and passes through a slot that passes through and forms along the second track member; and A threaded clamping handle is threaded onto the threaded post. The threaded post and the threaded clamping handle can be operated in concert to fix the first track member relative to the second track member in the defined linear position.

16. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 14, wherein, The sliding connector and clamping unit include: A threaded post protrudes from the first track member and passes through a slot that passes through and forms along the second track member; and A threaded manual knob, threaded onto the threaded post. The threaded post and the threaded manual knob can be operated in concert to fix the first track member relative to the second track member in the defined linear position.

17. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 1, wherein, The alignment device includes a level that can be operated to align the common centerline with the defined plane based on at least a partial rotation of the top segment relative to at least one of the first track member or the bottom segment about the pivot point.

18. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 1, wherein, The defined plane includes a horizontal plane.

19. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 1, wherein, The alignment device is connected to at least one of the plurality of plates, and wherein the leveling reference line of the alignment device is aligned with the common center line.

20. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 1, wherein, The alignment device is located on the top section, between the first and second ends of the top section, and wherein the leveling reference line of the alignment device is parallel to the common center line.

21. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 1, wherein, The surfaces of the bottom section and the top section are both located on the same side of the adjustable mounting device, wherein the surfaces of the bottom section and the top section both face the same direction, and the surfaces of the bottom section and the top section both lie on the same plane.

22. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 21, further comprising: One or more pads are respectively connected to the surface of the bottom segment and the surface of the top segment.

23. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 1, wherein, At least one of the bottom segment, the main segment, the first track component, the second track component, or the top segment includes a distance measurement system.

24. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 1, further comprising: The handle is connected to at least one of the main body segment, the first track member, or the second track member.

25. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of guide holes are all configured to receive and guide the drill bit.

26. A method for mounting an object onto a surface using an adjustable mounting device, the method comprising: Position the bottom plate and top plate of the adjustable mounting device against the surface, with their respective surfaces facing each other. The base plate and the top plate are moved along the surface in opposite linear directions to adjust the distance between the base plate and the top plate; The bottom plate and the top plate are fixed in place relative to each other at a defined distance between them; as well as The top plate is rotated relative to the bottom plate to align the center line of the guide hole on the top plate with a defined plane, the center line of the guide hole extending through the center of a plurality of guide holes formed through the top plate.

27. The method of claim 26, further comprising: Align the leveling reference line of the plane alignment device with the defined plane, the plane alignment device is connected to the top plate, and the leveling reference line is parallel to the center line of the guide hole.

28. The method of claim 27, further comprising: At least in part, this is based on aligning the leveling baseline with the defined plane and aligning the center line of the guide hole with the defined plane.

29. The method according to claim 26, wherein, Moving the bottom plate and the top plate in opposite linear directions includes: The first track member of the adjustable mounting device is moved in opposite linear directions relative to the second track member of the adjustable mounting device, the first track member being connected to the top plate and the second track member being connected to the bottom plate.

30. The method according to claim 29, wherein, Fixing the base plate and the top plate in place relative to each other at the defined distance includes: Using a distance measuring system coupled to or formed on the first track member, the first track member and the second track member are fixed in place relative to each other at the defined distance.

31. The method according to claim 29, wherein, Fixing the base plate and the top plate in place relative to each other at the defined distance includes: The first and second track components are fixed in place relative to each other at the defined distance using a sliding connector and clamping unit that is coupled to at least one of the first or second track components.

32. The method according to claim 26, wherein, Rotating the top plate relative to the bottom plate to align the center line of the guide hole on the top plate with the defining plane includes: The top plate is rotated about the pivot point, wherein the top plate is rotatably connected to a first track member of the adjustable mounting device, the first track member being slidably positioned inside a second track member of the adjustable mounting device, and the second track member being connected to the base plate.

33. The method of claim 32, further comprising: The top plate and the first track member are fixed in place relative to each other at a defined angular position using a rotatable connector and clamping unit that are connected to at least one of the top plate or the first track member.

34. The method of claim 26, further comprising: The hardware mounting process is performed using at least one of the plurality of guide holes to mount the object support component onto the surface.

35. The method according to claim 34, wherein, Performing the hardware installation process includes at least one of the following: Mark the surface at a position corresponding to the center of one of the plurality of guide holes; Drill a hole in the surface at a position corresponding to the center of one of the plurality of guide holes; or A nail or screw is installed in the surface at a position corresponding to the center of one of the plurality of guide holes.

36. An adjustable mounting device, comprising: The first track component is slidably positioned within the second track component; The bottom section connects to the second track component; as well as A top segment, rotatably connected to the first track member at a pivot point located on the top segment, the top segment being at least partially rotatable relative to the first track member about the pivot point, the top segment comprising: Multiple guide holes are formed along a guide hole centerline passing through the top section, the guide hole centerline extending through the center of each of the multiple guide holes; and A planar alignment device is connected to the top section, and the planar alignment device includes a leveling reference line parallel to the center line of the guide hole. The plane alignment device can be operated to align the leveling reference line and the center line of the guide hole with a defined plane based on at least a partial rotation of the top segment relative to the first track member about the pivot point.

37. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 36, wherein, The guide holes in the plurality of guide holes are equidistant from each other along the top section.

38. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 36, wherein, The centers of each of the plurality of guide holes are spaced 4 inches apart along the top section.

39. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 36, wherein, The first track component includes an inner T-shaped track, and the second track component includes an outer T-shaped track.

40. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 36, wherein, The top segment is rotatably connected to the first track member at the pivot point via a rotatable connector and clamping unit, the rotatable connector and clamping unit being operable to allow the top segment to rotate at least partially about the pivot point relative to at least one of the first track member or the bottom segment.

41. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 40, wherein, The rotatable connector and clamping unit can also be operated to fix the top segment relative to at least one of the first track member or the bottom segment about the pivot point at the defined angular position.

42. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 36 further includes: A slidable connector and clamping unit are connected to at least one of the first track member or the second track member, and the slidable connector and clamping unit can be operated to fix the first track member relative to the second track member in a defined linear position.

43. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 36, wherein, The plane alignment device includes a level that can be operated to align the centerline of the guide hole with the defined plane based on at least a partial rotation of the top section relative to at least one of the first track member or the bottom section about the pivot point.

44. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 36, wherein, The defined plane includes a horizontal plane.

45. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 36, wherein, The surfaces of the bottom section and the top section are both located on the same side of the adjustable mounting device, wherein the surfaces of the bottom section and the top section both face the same direction, and wherein the surfaces of the bottom section and the top section both lie in the same plane.

46. ​​The adjustable mounting device according to claim 45, further comprising: One or more pads are respectively connected to the surface of the bottom segment and the surface of the top segment.

47. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 36, wherein, At least one of the bottom section, the first track component, the second track component, or the top section includes a distance measurement system.

48. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 36, further comprising: A handle is connected to at least one of the first track member or the second track member.

49. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 36, further comprising: A handle support plate extends from one side of the second track member, the handle support plate being located in a plane parallel to the plane containing the surface of at least one of the top section or the bottom section; and A handle is attached to the handle support plate, the centerline of which is offset from and parallel to the centerline of at least one of the first track member or the second track member.

50. The adjustable mounting device according to claim 36, wherein, The plurality of guide holes are all configured to receive and guide the drill bit.

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