Modular mounting system for televisions and associated devices

Abstract

Modular mounting apparatus and systems for mounting televisions and accessories on walls. Base mounting apparatus includes the ability to mount and position a television. Systems include accessory mounting apparatus having a selectable array of brackets for attaching and securing wires and cables and various accessories to the mounting apparatus. The accessory brackets can be adapted to receive rack mountable accessories. A user can select among the various brackets as needed to achieve a combination that meets the user's needs. If needs change, brackets can be added or removed subsequently. Another accessory mounting apparatus includes one or more removable accessory mounting plates. The accessory mounting plates can have a hole pattern adapted to receive apparatus mounting clips that can be arranged around an accessory and twisted into place to secure to the accessory mounting plate. The clips can then be adjusted to secure the accessory to the plate.

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 541,354, filed September 29, 2023, entitled “MODULAR MOUNTING SYSTEM FORTELEVISIONS AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a mounting device for a television, and more particularly to a mounting device for attaching a flat-panel television and related equipment to a wall. Background Technology

[0004] Rapid technological advancements have led to the widespread adoption of flat-panel TVs, such as LED and OLED displays, in both commercial and consumer environments. The resulting cost reductions have led to a steady increase in the affordability of very large displays, typically exceeding 55 inches diagonally and even approaching 100 inches. Consequently, there has been a demand for wall-mounted devices capable of attaching such large displays to walls, thereby reducing the need for tables or shelves that would otherwise reduce the available floor space in the room where the display is located.

[0005] Furthermore, there is a desire for some capability to position the monitor when it is wall-mounted, thereby improving the monitor's visibility (e.g., reducing monitor surface glare) and providing easy access to the rear of the monitor, where power connectors and connectivity ports, such as HDMI, USB, DVI, DisplayPort®, and other types of connectors, are typically located. Therefore, mounting devices often have built-in tilting and other positioning capabilities.

[0006] Another characteristic of the widespread use of flat-panel TVs is the use of accessories such as decoders, receivers, controllers, and streaming devices that enable access to and display of digital content. These devices must be positioned close to the TV and typically have a large number of associated cables and wires for powering the accessories and providing input to the TV. For aesthetic reasons, it is desirable to conceal the accessory devices and associated cables.

[0007] The disadvantage of prior art mounting or housing devices for these types of accessories is that the devices themselves are often bulky and inflexible. For example, U.S. Patent No. 9,644,787 discloses a video conferencing equipment assembly designed for use with a standalone television mounting unit. This assembly has a large enclosure for mounting behind the television and accommodating various rack-mounted accessories. However, this enclosure occupies a relatively large space behind the television, requiring the television to be positioned at a greater distance from the wall when retracted. Furthermore, the assembly is not scalable, meaning that even if all the space in the enclosure or all rack-mounted accessories are not needed, there are no options for reducing the space occupied by the assembly.

[0008] Therefore, what the industry still needs is a solution for installing large televisions and accommodating accessories and cables that overcomes the identified shortcomings of existing technologies. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The invention disclosed herein addresses the industry's need for a solution for mounting large televisions and accommodating accessories and cables, overcoming the shortcomings of existing technologies. Embodiments of the invention include a mounting device with basic capabilities for mounting and positioning televisions. In one embodiment, the system includes an accessory mounting device having a selectable array of brackets for attaching and securing cables and various accessories to the mounting device. The accessory brackets can be adapted to receive rack-mountable accessories. Users can select from a variety of brackets as needed to achieve a combination that meets their requirements. If needs change, brackets can be added or removed subsequently.

[0010] In addition, other embodiments include an accessory mounting device comprising one or more removable accessory mounting plates. The accessory mounting plates may have a pattern of holes adapted to receive device mounting clamps that can be arranged around the accessory and twisted into place to secure it to the accessory mounting plate. The clamps can then be adjusted to hold the accessory to the plate.

[0011] In one embodiment, a modular mounting system for attaching an electronic display device and at least one accessory device to a wall of a structure includes: an upper guide rail; a lower guide rail vertically spaced from the upper guide rail; an accessory mounting device adapted to receive at least one accessory device, the accessory mounting device extending between and operably connected to the upper and lower guide rails; and a pair of display mounting devices adapted to receive the electronic display device and operably coupled to the upper and lower guide rails. Each display mounting device includes an internal component coupled to the upper and lower guide rails, an external component adapted to receive the electronic display device, and an extension component operably connecting the internal and external components. The extension component allows the external component to be selectively positioned in a retracted position and an extended position, in which the external component is positioned adjacent to the internal component, and in which the external component is spaced apart from the internal component.

[0012] In one embodiment, the extension assembly includes a pair of scissor arms. The display mounting device may have a latching mechanism arranged to latch the display mounting device in a retracted position, the latching mechanism being coupled to a release cord and having an emergency release member detachable from the release cord. The latching mechanism may include a spring-biased latching member, and the emergency release member may be an emergency release arm portion of the latching member.

[0013] In one embodiment, the external component includes a track and a display engagement, the display engagement being spaced apart from the track to define a gap between the track and the display engagement, and an emergency release arm portion of the latching member protruding into the gap when the display engagement is in the retracted position.

[0014] In this embodiment, the accessory mounting device may include a rack mounting bracket, a rack mounting shelf, or a detachable accessory mounting plate.

[0015] In one embodiment, the external component includes a track and a display assembly that is operably connected to the track via a tilt adjustment bracket. The tilt adjustment bracket provides multiple stop stops, allowing the electronic display device to be positioned at multiple predetermined tilt locations. The external component may also include a vertical adjustment component that allows the external component to be selectively vertically displaced relative to the extension component.

[0016] In one embodiment, the mounting device for attaching an electronic display device and at least one accessory device to a wall of the structure includes: an upper guide rail; a lower guide rail vertically spaced from the upper guide rail; an accessory mounting device adapted to receive at least one accessory device; and a pair of display mounting devices adapted to receive the electronic display device and operably connected to the upper and lower guide rails. The accessory mounting devices can be operably connected to the upper and lower guide rails.

[0017] In an embodiment, each display mounting device may include an internal component coupled to an upper guide rail and a lower guide rail, an external component adapted to receive an electronic display device, and an extension component operably connecting the internal and external components, the extension component enabling the external component to be selectively positioned in a retracted position and an extended position, in which the external component positions the internal component, and in the extended position, the external component is spaced apart from the internal component. The display mounting device may have a latching mechanism arranged to latch the display mounting device in the retracted position, the latching mechanism being coupled to a release cord and having an emergency release member detachable from the release cord. The latching mechanism may include a spring-biased latching member, and wherein the emergency release member includes an emergency release arm portion of the latching member. The external component may include a rail and a display engagement spaced apart from the rail to define a gap between the display engagement and the rail, and wherein, when the display engagement is in the retracted position, the emergency release arm portion of the latching member protrudes into the gap.

[0018] In this embodiment, the accessory mounting device may be a rack mounting bracket, a rack mounting shelf, or a detachable accessory mounting plate.

[0019] In one embodiment, the external component includes a track and a display assembly that is operably connected to the track via a tilt adjustment bracket. The tilt adjustment bracket provides multiple stop stops, allowing the electronic display device to be positioned at multiple predetermined tilt locations. The external component may also include a vertical adjustment component, enabling selective vertical displacement of the external component relative to the extension component.

[0020] The above overview is not intended to describe every embodiment or implementation of the subject matter of this disclosure. The following figures and detailed description illustrate various embodiments in more detail. Attached Figure Description

[0021] The subject matter of the invention can be more fully understood by considering the following detailed description of various embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0022] Figure 1A modular mounting system for a television and associated equipment according to an embodiment of the present invention is described, wherein the equipment is received in a mounting bracket of an accessory mounting device:

[0023] Figure 1A Depicting Figure 1 The modular installation system, in which the attached television is shown in dashed lines;

[0024] Figure 2 Depicting the lack of attachment devices Figure 1 Modular installation system;

[0025] Figure 3 Depicting Figure 1 The base mounting system of the modular installation system;

[0026] Figure 3A Is Figure 3 The cross-section taken at point 3A-3A;

[0027] Figure 4 Depicting Figure 1 Modular installation systems are suitable for accessory mounting devices that accommodate rack-mounted equipment;

[0028] Figure 5 Depicting Figure 1 Modular installation systems are suitable for mounting accessories for fixing wires and cables;

[0029] Figure 6 Depicting Figure 1 A modular installation system is another accessory installation device suitable for fixing wires and cables;

[0030] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 Exploded view of various accessory installation devices for the modular installation system;

[0031] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A partial exploded view of a part of a modular installation system;

[0032] Figure 9 yes Figure 1 A front isometric view of the display mounting device of the modular installation system;

[0033] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A partial exploded view of the display mounting assembly;

[0034] Figure 11 yes Figure 9 Partial exploded rear view of the display mounting device;

[0035] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A rear isometric view of the display mounting device, in which some parts are depicted with dashed lines;

[0036] Figure 13 Is Figure 3 The section cut at 16-16 Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the installation device;

[0037] Figure 14 yes Figures 9 to 13 A front view of the tilt adjustment bracket of the mounting device;

[0038] Figure 15 This is a front isometric view of a modular installation system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 16 There is no mounting plate for accessory devices. Figure 15 Front isometric view of the modular installation system;

[0040] Figure 17 Is Figure 16 The section taken at point 17-17 Figure 16 A cross-sectional view of the upper guide rail of the system;

[0041] Figure 18 yes Figure 16 Top view of the upper guide rail of the system;

[0042] Figure 19 yes Figure 16 A front view of the upper guide rail of the system;

[0043] Figure 20 yes Figure 16 Isometric view of the side connection bracket of the system;

[0044] Figure 21 yes Figure 16 Isometric view of the system's accessory mounting plate;

[0045] Figure 22 yes Figure 16 Isometric view of the system's mounting clamps;

[0046] Figure 23 It has Figure 16 Exploded isometric view of the latch assembly of the emergency release mechanism of the system;

[0047] Figure 24 yes Figure 23 Rear isometric view of the spring housing of the latch assembly;

[0048] Figure 25 yes Figure 16An isometric view of the top portion of the system's display mounting assembly, wherein, for clarity, the track portion of the external components is hidden;

[0049] Figure 26 yes Figure 16 An isometric view of the top portion of the external components of the system's display mounting device, also depicting the latch assembly;

[0050] Figure 27 yes Figure 16 An isometric view of the top portion of the external components of the system's display mounting device, wherein the tracks are depicted in dashed lines for clarity;

[0051] Figure 28 It is depicted as being in an unfolded position. Figure 16 A top plan view of the external components of the system's display mounting device;

[0052] Figure 29 It is depicted as being in the stowed position. Figure 16 A top plan view of the display mounting assembly of the system, wherein the display joint is inclined;

[0053] Figure 30 It is described as having a latch locking clip. Figure 16 An isometric view of the latching components of the system;

[0054] Figure 31 This is a front isometric view of a modular installation system according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 32 There is no mounting plate for accessory devices. Figure 31 A front isometric view of the modular installation system; and

[0056] Figure 33 yes Figure 31 A partially exploded isometric view of the modular installation system.

[0057] While various embodiments can be modified into various alterations and alternatives, details of the various embodiments have been shown by way of example in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail. However, it should be understood that this is not intended to limit the claimed invention to the specific embodiments described. Rather, the invention covers all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the subject matter as defined by the claims. Detailed Implementation

[0058] exist Figures 1 to 8The image depicts a modular mounting system 20 for a television and associated accessories according to an embodiment of the invention. The modular mounting system 20 generally includes a base mounting device 22, an optional cable management pole 24, an optional cable management plate 26, an optional rack mounting bracket 28, an optional rack mounting bracket extension 30, an optional rack shelf 32, and an optional rack mounting bracket separator assembly 34.

[0059] like Figure 3 As depicted, the base mounting assembly 22 typically includes a channel 36, a channel connector 38, and a display mounting assembly 40, with the channel 36 and channel connector 38 together defining an upper guide rail 39 and a lower guide rail 41. The cross-section of the channel 36 may be generally C-shaped, such as... Figure 3A As depicted, channel 36 has a back plate 42, a top wall 44, and a bottom wall 46, as well as corresponding lips 48 and 50. It will be understood that, although the two channels 36 are... Figure 3 The channel 36 is shown connected to channel connector 38 to define the width W for the upper rail 39 and the lower rail 41, but a single channel for each rail can be used, or more channels 36 can be connected together with channel connector 38 to increase the width W, thereby accommodating a larger screen or multiple televisions.

[0060] exist Figures 9 to 15 The image depicts a display mounting assembly 40, which generally includes an internal assembly 52, an external assembly 54, and an extension assembly 55, the extension assembly 55 including scissor arms 56, 58. The internal assembly 52 generally includes a track 60, a top hook-shaped bracket 62 forming a hook portion 64, and a lower retaining assembly 66. The track 60 may be a generally C-shaped channel and includes a protruding bottom protrusion 68 that engages with the lower retaining assembly 66 at the bottom end of the internal assembly 52 to form a hook portion 70.

[0061] External component 54 generally includes a track 72, which may be a generally C-shaped channel, a display joint 74, and a tilt adjustment bracket 76. For example... Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 8 As depicted, the display joint 74 may define an opening 80 for receiving the display joint extension 78. A tilt adjustment bracket 76 is pivotally connected to the display joint 74 by bolts 82 and nuts 84, and defines a groove 86 having a positioning notch 88. A rivet 90 extends from a track 72 through the groove 86. The display joint 74 is pivotally connected to the track 72 by rivets 92, 94.

[0062] The scissor arm 56 has an inner end 96 and an outer end 98. The inner end 96 is pivotally connected to the track 60 by a bolt 100. The outer end 98 is pivotally connected to the slider 102 by a pin 104. The slider 102 is received in a channel defined by the track 72 and slides vertically in this channel. The scissor arm 58 has an inner end 106 and an outer end 108. The inner end 106 carries a shaft 110 with a roller 112 that rolls in a C-shaped channel formed by the track 60. The outer end 108 carries a shaft 114, which is pivotally connected to a slider 116. The slider 116 is received in a C-shaped channel defined by the track 72 and slides vertically in this channel. The shaft 114 has a cross-drilled hole (not shown) that is threaded and receives a vertical adjusting bolt 118. The slider 116 is restricted to slide within the upper portion 120 of the track 72 by a stop screw 122. The scissor arms 56 and 58 are pivotally connected together by a pin 124.

[0063] It will be understood that the extension component 55 allows the external component 54 and the attached television to selectively shift closer to or further away from the internal component 52. In the retracted position, as... Figures 1 to 3 As depicted, the outer component 54 is positioned very close to the inner component 52, allowing the attached television to be positioned very close to the wall. Then, by pulling the television outward, the extension component 55 can be extended to... Figures 10 to 12 The unfolded position depicted allows the television to be positioned away from the wall. The latch assembly 200 allows the display mounting assembly 40 to be latched in the retracted position. The latch assembly 200 can be released by pulling down the release cord 198, thereby allowing the extension assembly 55 to extend.

[0064] exist Figure 6 The image depicts a cable management pole 24, which generally includes a body portion 126 having a back plate 128 and flanges 130, 132. Protruding protrusions 134 are stamped in the back plate 128, and these protruding protrusions 134 are adapted to receive straps for securing wires and cables. Figure 1 , Figure 1A and Figure 2 As depicted, flange 132 is adapted to be attached to channel 36 of base mounting device 22 when needed for securing wires and cables to mounting system 20.

[0065] exist Figure 5 The image depicts a cable management board 26, which generally includes a planar body portion 136 with fixing protrusions 138. Protruding protrusions 140 are stamped in the body portion 136, and these protruding protrusions 140 are adapted to receive straps for securing wires and cables. Figure 1 , Figure 1Aand Figure 2 As depicted, the protruding portion 140 is adapted to be attached, if necessary, between the channels 36 of the upper guide rail 39 and the lower guide rail 41 of the base mounting device 22 for securing wires and cables to the mounting system 20.

[0066] exist Figure 4 and Figure 7 The image depicts an accessory mounting device in the form of a rack mounting bracket 28, and the accessory mounting device generally includes a body portion 142 having a back plate 144, an end wall 146, and a mounting flange 148. The rack mounting bracket 28 may have sufficient dimensions to accommodate... Figure 1 and Figure 1A The standard 1RU rack-mount unit 150 depicted herein, for example, has a height A and width B (e.g., 19 inches x 1.75 inches) of, for example, Vaddio® Quick Connect CCU. Figure 1 , Figure 1A and Figure 2 As depicted, the rack mounting bracket 28 can be attached between the upper guide rail 39 and the lower guide rail 41 channel 36 of the base mounting device 22. In other embodiments, one or two half-width 1RU devices 152, 154 can be used as... Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 7 The rack mounting bracket partition assembly 34 depicted is mounted in the rack mounting bracket 28. Alternatively, the rack shelf 32 can be used as an accessory mounting device to accommodate rack mounting devices with a large depth dimension C. If the rack mounting device itself lacks such a mounting configuration, the rack mounting lug 156 can be attached to the rack mounting devices 150, 152, or 154. Figure 7 The rack mounting bracket extension 30 depicted can be attached to the rack mounting bracket 28 so that additional rack mounting devices 150, 152, and 154 can be stacked or accommodate 2RU devices. Using this configuration, the display junction extension 78 can be attached to the display junction 74 using an aperture 80, ensuring that the television 158 does not impact or interfere with the rack mounting devices 150, 152, and 154 when the display mounting assembly 40 is fully retracted.

[0067] In use, the upper rail 39 and lower rail 41 can be attached to the surface of wall 190. Depending on the accessories to be installed, cable management rod 24, cable management plate 26, rack mounting bracket 28, and / or rack shelf 32 can be attached to the upper rail 39 and / or lower rail 41 in any desired combination. For example, if only one 1RU unit is required, a rack mounting bracket 28 can be attached together with the cable management rod 24 and / or cable management plate 26 between the left or right ends of the upper rail 39 and lower rail 41 as needed to secure the associated cables and wires. If a full-width 1RU unit and two half-width 1RU units are required, a rack mounting bracket 28 can be attached between the left or right ends of the upper rail 39 and the lower rail 41, and another rack mounting bracket 28 or rack shelf 32 can be attached together with cable management rod 24 and / or cable management plate 26 to the other end of the upper rail 39 and the lower rail 41 to secure the associated wires and cables.

[0068] The monitor mounting device 40 can then be attached to the rear of the television 158. The hook portion 120 of the internal component 126 can engage with the protruding lips 64, 66 to attach the monitor mounting device 40 and the television 158 to the upper rail 39 and lower rail 41. With the television 158 attached to the upper rail 39 and lower rail 41, the vertical adjustment bolt 184 on each monitor mounting device 40 can be rotated to adjust the relative height and tilt of the television 158 to conform to the ceiling, floor, or adjacent television 158. Any wires and cables can be inserted into the devices 150, 152, 154, and television 158 and secured to the cable management pole 24 and / or cable management board 26 using straps.

[0069] The television 158 can be tilted by pulling the upper end 202 of the display joint 74 outward, thereby pivoting around rivets 92, 94. The tilt adjustment bracket 76 pivots around bolt 82, allowing slot 86 to slide around rivet 90. Recess 88 provides a convenient stop, allowing the upper end 202 to be positioned at a predetermined tilt location. Figure 14 As depicted, these stoppers can be selected to correspond to tilted positions, such as tilted positions of 2.5 degrees, 5 degrees, 7.5 degrees, and 10 degrees relative to the vertical, or can be selected to correspond to any other desired position. The television 158 can be moved away from the wall by pulling the release rope 198 to release the latch assembly 200. The television 158 can then be positioned closer to or further away from the wall via the scissor arms 56, 58, and can also be laterally pivoted to a limited extent via different extensions of the display mounting device 40.

[0070] exist Figures 15 to 30Another embodiment of a modular mounting system 220 for a television and associated accessories is depicted. System 220 generally includes a frame 222, a display mounting device 224, and an accessory mounting device in the form of a removable accessory mounting plate 226. Frame 222 generally includes an upper guide rail 228, a lower guide rail 230, and side connecting brackets 232 and 234. (As...) Figure 17 As depicted, the upper guide rail 228 and lower guide rail 230 may be generally C-shaped in cross-section, having a back plate 236, a top wall 238, and a bottom wall 240, as well as corresponding lips 242, 244. Lips 242, 244 are adapted to receive a top hook-shaped support 62 forming a hook portion and a lower retaining assembly 66. Although in Figure 17 and Figure 18 The upper rail 228 is depicted, but the lower rail 240 is a mirror image. It will be understood that the upper rail 228 and the lower rail 230 can be made to any desired length to limit the width W for accommodating a screen or multiple televisions of any size. Figure 18 As depicted, the bottom wall 240 defines a plurality of spaced rectangular grooves 246 along the longitudinal length L for receiving protrusions of the removable accessory mounting plate 226, as will be further described below. Figure 19 As depicted, the backplate 236 defines a groove 248 for receiving fasteners (not depicted) to attach the modular mounting system 220 to the wall. Cable management clips 249 may be attached to allow cables to be neatly routed along the upper guide rail 228 and the lower guide rail 230.

[0071] exist Figure 20 The image depicts a side connecting bracket 232, wherein a side connecting bracket 234 is a mirror image. The side connecting bracket 232 generally includes a rear plane 250 and a side plane 252. The rear plane 250 has vertical flanges 254 and 256, each defining an aperture 258, 260, and 262. The apertures 258 and 262 receive... Figure 16 The fastener 263 depicted extends into the orifice 264 to secure the side connecting brackets 232, 234 to the upper guide rail 228 and the lower guide rail 230. The orifice 260 is a rectangular slot for receiving a protrusion of the removable accessory mounting plate 226.

[0072] exist Figure 21 An exemplary removable accessory mounting plate 226 is depicted. The removable accessory mounting plate 226 generally includes a body portion 266 that defines a plurality of openings 267 arranged in the pattern depicted, and the body portion 266 can receive... Figure 22The small device mounting clamp 268 is depicted. The small device mounting clamp 268 is available from Legrand AV, 6436 West Avenue, Eden Prairie, Minnesota (55344), and typically comprises a base portion 270, a columnar portion 272, and a clamping slide 274. The base portion 270 has a connector protrusion 276 that can be inserted into one of the orifices 267. The small device mounting clamp 268 can then be rotated 90° to secure it in a desired position on the removable accessory mounting plate 226. It will be understood that multiple small device mounting clamps 268 may be arranged around small, non-rack-mounted accessory devices such as video / audio receivers, transmitters, or controllers. The clamping slide 274 can then be pressed down on the columnar portion 272 to engage the accessory device and secure it to the removable accessory mounting plate 226. The removable accessory mounting plate 226 has a protruding protrusion 278 and a movable rod protrusion 280. The protruding protrusion 278 and the movable rod protrusion 280 can be inserted into rectangular slots 246 in the upper guide rail 228 and the lower guide rail 230. The movable rod protrusion 280 can be operated to secure the removable accessory mounting plate 226 in place. It will be understood that although the removable accessory mounting plate 226 is... Figure 15 The removable accessory mounting plates 226 are depicted as being mounted at opposite ends of frame 222, but these removable accessory mounting plates 226 can be mounted at any other location within frame 222, achieved by a continuous arrangement of rectangular slots 246 along the longitudinal length L of upper guide rail 228 and lower guide rail 230. Therefore, the removable accessory mounting plates 226 provide a quick and flexible way to attach and install accessory devices to the modular mounting system 220 in a removable manner without requiring dedicated rack mounting devices.

[0073] Except for providing latch assembly 300 in place of latch assembly 200 for emergency latch release features, display mounting device 224 has the same structure and operation as previously described for display mounting assembly 40, as described below and Figures 23 to 30 As depicted in the description. This emergency latch release feature allows the display mounting device 224 to be released from its retracted position when the release rope 198 becomes detached from the front of the display or is otherwise inaccessible from the front of the display.

[0074] like Figure 23As depicted in the exploded view, the latch assembly 300 generally includes a latch member 302, a bias compression spring 304, a spring housing 306, and a fastener 308. The latch member 302 defines elongated slots 310 and 312, a latch protrusion 314, an emergency release arm 316, and a release rope connecting protrusion 318. The bias compression spring 304 is received in the elongated slot 310. The latch protrusion 314 has a beveled edge 320 and a latch tip 322. The emergency release arm 316 has an engagement surface 324, and the release rope connecting protrusion 318 defines an orifice 326. The spring housing 306 defines an orifice 307. Figure 24 As depicted, the spring housing defines a semi-cylindrical recess 327 having an end face 329. A protrusion 331 extends outward from the inner face 333.

[0075] Figure 25 This is a partial isometric view of the top portion of the display mounting device 224, in which the portion of the outer component 54 including the track 72 is hidden to show the structure and operation of the latching assembly 300 more clearly. The track 60 of the inner component 52 has a protruding protrusion 328 defining an orifice 330. The display mounting device 224 is depicted in a retracted and latched position, in which the latch tip 322 engages in the orifice 330 to prevent extension of the extension assembly 55.

[0076] Figure 26 and Figure 27 This is an isometric view of the top portion of the outer assembly 54 and the scissor arm 58, depicting the latch assembly 300. The latch assembly 300 is mounted on the side 332 of the scissor arm 58 using fasteners 308 passing through orifices 307 and elongated slots 310, 312, allowing the latch member 302 to slide on the side 332 in the direction indicated by the arrow. A protrusion 331 extends through the elongated slots 310, 312, with its end supported against the side 332 to create a sliding clearance between the inner surface 333 and the side 332 for the latch member 302. The end 334 of the bias compression spring 304 is supported against the end 336 of the elongated slot 310, while the end 338 of the bias compression spring 304 is supported against the end face 329 of the spring housing 306 to bias the latch member 302 relative to the scissor arm 58.

[0077] like Figure 27 As depicted, the emergency release arm 316 protrudes forward into the orifice 340 in the track 72. Figure 28 This is a partial top plan view of the display mounting device 122 in its extended position. As depicted, the display joint 74 is mounted to the track 72 via a bracket 342, thereby forming a gap 344 between the display joint 74 and the track 72. The display joint extension 75 can be attached to the display joint 74 to provide additional width.

[0078] When the display engagement 74 is pushed toward the retracted position adjacent to the internal component 52, the inclined edge 320 of the latch protrusion 314 engages the forward edge 346 of the protrusion 328, and the latch member 302 is pushed downward against the bias of the biasing compression spring 304. Once the latch tip 322 passes through the edge of the aperture 330, the biasing compression spring 304 forces the latch member 302 upward, thereby engaging the latch tip 322 in the aperture 330 and latching the display mounting device 224 in the retracted position. Figure 29 As depicted (shown as a tilted display joint 74), the display mounting device 224 is in the retracted position, with the engagement surface 324 of the emergency release arm 316 protruding into the gap 344. From here, the latch assembly 300 can be released by pulling down the release cord 198, causing the latch member 302 to move downward against the bias of the biased compression spring 304 until the latch tip 322 passes through the orifice 330. The display joint 122 can be extended by pulling outward.

[0079] If the release rope 198 is lost, tangled, or otherwise inaccessible, the latch assembly 300 can also be released by pushing an elongated object (not depicted) (e.g., a ruler, cardboard, or wood chips) downward through the gap 344 to contact the engagement surface 324 of the emergency release arm 316. The object can then be pressed down, thereby causing the latch member 302 to move downward against the bias of the biased compression spring 304 until the latch tip 322 passes through the orifice 330, thereby releasing the display mounting device 224 for extension.

[0080] Figure 30 Another optional feature is depicted. According to this feature, the release rope connecting protrusion 318 bends upward, and the latch locking clip 348 is inserted between the release rope connecting protrusion 318 and the spring housing 306 to prevent the latching member 302 from being in the unlatched position. With the latch locking clip 348 inserted, the latching assembly 300 is prevented from latching the display mounting device 224 in the retracted position.

[0081] It will be understood that the emergency latch release device disclosed herein can be adapted to extension mechanisms of types other than the scissor arm described herein. For example, a single or articulated swing arm assembly can be employed to allow the display assembly to be moved closer to or further away from the wall enclosure. In such a device, the swing arm folds into an area inside the frame so that the attached display can be positioned close to the wall. The swing arm can be equipped with a latch that can be released using a rope, and an emergency release device that can be accessed from outside the enclosure using an elongated object, as described herein. Such an arrangement is contemplated within the scope of the invention.

[0082] exist Figures 31 to 33 Another embodiment of the invention is described, configured with the mounting device and television arranged in a "longitudinal" direction. In this embodiment, the modular mounting system 350 generally includes an upper rail 352, a lower rail 354, connecting plates 356, 358, display mounting devices 360, 362, extension brackets 364, 366, 368, 370, and an accessory mounting device in the form of a detachable accessory mounting plate 372. The upper rail 352 and lower rail 354 have the same structure as the previously described upper rail 228 and lower rail 230, except that they are generally slightly shorter according to the orientation change from "lateral" to "longitudinal". Figure 33 As depicted, connecting plates 356 and 358 are fixed to extension brackets 364, 366, 368, and 370 using fasteners 374, and extension brackets 364, 366, 368, and 370 are fixed to upper guide rail 352 and lower guide rail 354 using fasteners 376.

[0083] Extension brackets 364, 366, 368, and 370 are each disc-shaped, having a back plate 378, an outer portion 380, an inner portion 382, ​​and end flanges 384 and 386. The inner portion 382 defines a plurality of spaced rectangular slots 388 that receive protrusions of a removable accessory mounting plate 372. The structure of the removable accessory mounting plate 372 is the same as that of the previously described removable accessory mounting plate 226. Furthermore, except for the display joint extension plate 390, which can be as described... Figure 31 Apart from the attachment to the display joint 74 depicted to provide additional vertical length, the display mounting devices 360, 362 are the same as the display mounting device 224 as previously described.

[0084] Various embodiments of the systems, apparatus, and methods have been described herein. These embodiments are given by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention. Furthermore, it should be understood that the various features of the described embodiments can be combined in various ways to produce numerous additional embodiments. Moreover, while various materials, sizes, shapes, configurations, and positions for use with the disclosed embodiments have been described, other materials, sizes, shapes, configurations, and positions besides those disclosed may be utilized without departing from the scope of the claimed invention.

[0085] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the subject matter of this disclosure may include fewer features than those illustrated in any of the individual embodiments described above. The embodiments described herein are not intended to be an exhaustive representation of how the various features of the subject matter of this disclosure can be combined. Therefore, embodiments are not mutually exclusive combinations of features; rather, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, various embodiments may include combinations of different individual features selected from different individual embodiments. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, elements described with respect to one embodiment may be implemented in other embodiments, even if not described in such embodiments.

[0086] While dependent claims may refer to specific combinations with one or more other claims in the claims, other embodiments may also include combinations of dependent claims with the subject matter of each other dependent claim, or combinations of one or more features with other dependent or independent claims. Such combinations are set forth herein unless stated otherwise.

[0087] Any combination of references to the foregoing documents is limited to such that no subject matter contrary to the express disclosure herein is incorporated. Any combination of references to the foregoing documents is also limited to such that any claims included in the documents are not incorporated herein by reference. Any combination of references to the foregoing documents is further limited to such that any limitations provided in the documents are not incorporated herein by reference unless expressly included herein.

[0088] For the purposes of interpreting the claims, it is clearly intended that the provisions of 35 USC §112(f) shall not be invoked unless the specific terms “means for…” or “steps for…” are referenced in the claims.

Claims

1. A modular mounting system for attaching an electronic display device and at least one accessory device to a wall of a structure, the modular mounting system comprising: Upper guide rail; The lower guide rail is vertically spaced from the upper guide rail; An accessory mounting device adapted to receive the at least one accessory device, the accessory mounting device extending between the upper guide rail and the lower guide rail and operably connected to the upper guide rail and the lower guide rail; as well as A pair of display mounting devices adapted to receive the electronic display device and operably coupled to the upper rail and the lower rail, each display mounting device including an internal component coupled to the upper rail and the lower rail, an external component adapted to receive the electronic display device, and an extension component operably coupled to the internal component and the external component, the extension component enabling the external component to be selectively positioned in a retracted position and an extended position, wherein in the retracted position the external component is positioned adjacent to the internal component, and in the extended position the external component is spaced apart from the internal component.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The extension assembly includes a pair of scissor arms.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The display mounting device has a latching mechanism arranged to latch the display mounting device in the retracted position, the latching mechanism being connected to a release rope and having an emergency release member detachable from the release rope.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein, The latching mechanism includes a spring-biased latching member, and wherein the emergency release member includes an emergency release arm portion of the latching member.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein, The external component includes a track and a display engagement portion, the display engagement portion being spaced apart from the track to define a gap between the display engagement portion and the track, and wherein, when the display engagement portion is in the retracted position, the emergency release arm portion of the latching member protrudes into the gap.

6. The system according to claim 1, 2, 3 or 4, wherein, The accessory mounting device includes a rack mounting bracket.

7. The system according to claim 1, 2, 3 or 4, wherein, The accessory mounting device includes a frame mounting shelf.

8. The system according to claim 1, 2, 3 or 4, wherein, The accessory mounting device includes a detachable accessory mounting plate.

9. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The external components include a track and a display assembly, the display assembly being operably connected to the track via a tilt adjustment bracket, the tilt adjustment bracket providing multiple stop stops so that the electronic display device can be positioned at multiple predetermined tilt positions.

10. The system according to claim 7, wherein, The external component also includes a vertical adjustment component that allows the external component to be selectively vertically displaced relative to the extension component.

11. A mounting device for attaching an electronic display device and at least one accessory device to a wall of a structure, the mounting device comprising: Upper guide rail; The lower guide rail is vertically spaced from the upper guide rail; An accessory mounting device, the accessory mounting device being adapted to receive the at least one accessory device; as well as A pair of display mounting devices, the pair of display mounting devices being adapted to receive the electronic display device and operably connected to the upper guide rail and the lower guide rail.

12. The mounting device according to claim 10, wherein, The accessory mounting device is operably connected to the upper guide rail and the lower guide rail.

13. The mounting device according to claim 10, wherein, Each display mounting device includes an internal component connected to the upper rail and the lower rail, an external component adapted to receive the electronic display device, and an extension component operably connecting the internal component and the external component, the extension component enabling the external component to be selectively positioned in a retracted position and an extended position, in the retracted position being positioned adjacent to the internal component, and in the extended position being spaced apart from the internal component.

14. The mounting device according to claim 12, wherein, The display mounting device has a latching mechanism arranged to latch the display mounting device in the retracted position, the latching mechanism being connected to a release rope and having an emergency release member detachable from the release rope.

15. The mounting device according to claim 13, wherein, The latching mechanism includes a spring-biased latching member, and wherein the emergency release member includes an emergency release arm portion of the latching member.

16. The mounting device according to claim 14, wherein, The external component includes a track and a display engagement portion, the display engagement portion being spaced apart from the track to define a gap between the display engagement portion and the track, and wherein, when the display engagement portion is in the retracted position, the emergency release arm portion of the latching member protrudes into the gap.

17. The mounting device according to claim 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 or 15, wherein, The accessory mounting device includes a rack mounting bracket.

18. The mounting device according to claim 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 or 15, wherein, The accessory mounting device includes a frame mounting shelf.

19. The mounting device according to claim 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 or 15, wherein, The accessory mounting device includes a detachable accessory mounting plate.

20. The mounting device according to claim 12, wherein, The external components include a track and a display assembly, the display assembly being operably connected to the track via a tilt adjustment bracket, the tilt adjustment bracket providing multiple stop stops so that the electronic display device can be positioned at multiple predetermined tilt positions.

21. The mounting device according to claim 18, wherein, The external component also includes a vertical adjustment component that allows the external component to be selectively vertically displaced relative to the extension component.

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