Top-mounted installation device

Abstract

This invention provides a mounting device for mounting a fastener on a structure having a first surface and a second surface. The top-mounting device allows a user to mount the fastener to the surface of the structure from an easily accessible area adjacent to the structure. The top-mounting device includes a base connectable to the fastener and includes an anchor that engages with the base to form a clamping clamp on the structure. The anchor is connected to a sleeve that engages with a shaft extending from the base, for example, the sleeve receiving or being received by the shaft. The sleeve and anchor can be moved relative to the shaft toward the base via a threaded engagement between the fastener and the sleeve. The shaft and sleeve may also have complementary anti-rotation shapes that restrict relative rotation between the shaft and the sleeve during engagement of the fastener and sleeve, thereby enabling the engagement to move the sleeve and anchor toward the base.

Description

Cross-reference to related applications

[0001] This application claims priority and benefit to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 758,139, filed February 13, 2025, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 782,761, filed April 3, 2025, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to the field of faucets and other work surface mounting devices. In particular, this disclosure relates to systems and methods for mounting faucets from above a work surface. Background Technology

[0003] When installing a faucet, it is typically mounted to the countertop. Fasteners such as nuts, washers, or plates are attached to the faucet mount from below the countertop. The user must access the space below the countertop to install the faucet. Therefore, there is a need for an installation method that allows the faucet to be installed on the countertop from above, reducing the number of installation steps required below the countertop. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present invention provides a mounting device for mounting a fixing device on a structure having a first surface and a second surface, the mounting device comprising: a base capable of being connected to the fixing device and positioned above the first surface; an anti-rotation shaft extending from the base and including a central channel accessible via the base; an anti-rotation sleeve engaging the anti-rotation shaft and defining a cavity aligned with the central channel of the anti-rotation shaft; and an anchor connected to the anti-rotation sleeve, the anchor having an anchoring surface configured to contact the second surface when the anchor is in a clamped position and to clamp the structure between the anchor and the base. Attached Figure Description

[0005] To gain a more detailed understanding of the features described above, please refer to the examples provided for a more specific description of the content briefly outlined above, some of which are shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0006] Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of an example faucet using a top-mounted device.

[0007] Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of an example faucet using a top-mounted device.

[0008] Figure 3An exploded perspective view of an example faucet using a top-mounted device.

[0009] Figure 4 This is a side cross-sectional view of an example faucet using a top-mounted device.

[0010] Figure 5 An exploded perspective view of an example faucet using a top-mounted device.

[0011] Figure 6 This is a side cross-sectional view of an example faucet handle using a top-mounted device.

[0012] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of an example top-mounted device.

[0013] Figure 8 An exploded perspective view of an example top-mounted device.

[0014] Figure 9 This is a top view of an example top-mounted device.

[0015] Figure 10 This is a side cross-sectional view of an example top-mounted device.

[0016] Figures 11 to 15 The process of installing an example top-mounted device on a workbench is described.

[0017] Figure 16 This is a perspective view of an example top-mounted device.

[0018] Figure 17 An exploded perspective view of an example top-mounted device.

[0019] Figure 18 This is a side view of an example top-mounted device.

[0020] Figure 19 This is a top view of an example top-mounted device.

[0021] Figure 20 This is a side cross-sectional view of an example top-mounted device.

[0022] Figure 21 and Figure 22 This is a perspective view of an example top-mounted device, which has the ability to... Figure 21 The vertical orientation shown in the figure is the same as Figure 22 The anchoring arm moves between horizontal orientations as shown in the diagram.

[0023] Figure 23 and Figure 24 This is a rear view of an example top-mounted device, which has the ability to... Figure 23 The vertical orientation shown in the figure is the same as Figure 24The anchoring arm moves between horizontal orientations as shown in the diagram.

[0024] Figures 25 to 28 The process of installing an example top-mounted device on a workbench is described.

[0025] Figure 29 and Figure 30 The process of installing an example top-mounted device on a workbench is described.

[0026] Figure 31 and Figure 32 This is a perspective view of an example top-mounted device, which has two... Figure 31 The vertical orientation shown in the figure is the same as Figure 32 The anchoring arm moves between horizontal orientations as shown in the diagram.

[0027] Figure 33 and Figure 34 This is a top view of an example top-mounted device, which has two... Figure 33 The vertical orientation shown in the figure is the same as Figure 34 The anchoring arm moves between horizontal orientations as shown in the diagram.

[0028] Figure 35 An exploded perspective view of an example top-mounted device.

[0029] Figure 36 This is a side cross-sectional view of an example top-mounted device.

[0030] Figure 37 This is a perspective view of an example top-mounted device.

[0031] Figure 38 An exploded perspective view of an example top-mounted device.

[0032] Figure 39 This is a top view of an example top-mounted device.

[0033] Figure 40 This is a bottom view of an example top-mounted device.

[0034] Figure 41 This is a side cross-sectional view of an example top-mounted device.

[0035] Figure 42 and Figure 43 This is a perspective view of an example top-mounted device, which has the ability to... Figure 42 The opening orientation shown in the figure is the same as Figure 43 The butterfly anchor shown moves between closed orientations.

[0036] Figure 44 and Figure 45 This is a top view of an example top-mounted device, which has the ability to... Figure 44 The opening orientation shown in the figure is the same as Figure 45 The butterfly anchor shown moves between closed orientations.

[0037] Figure 46 An exploded perspective view of an example top-mounted device.

[0038] Figure 47 This is a side cross-sectional view of an example top-mounted device.

[0039] Figure 48 This is a perspective view of an example top-mounted device.

[0040] Figure 49 An exploded perspective view of an example top-mounted device.

[0041] Figure 50 and Figure 51 This is a perspective view of an example top-mounted device, which has two... Figure 50 The vertical orientation shown in the figure is the same as Figure 51 Anchor rods that move between horizontal orientations are shown in the diagram.

[0042] Figure 52 and Figure 53 This is a top view of an example top-mounted device, which has two... Figure 52 The vertical orientation shown in the figure is the same as Figure 53 Anchor rods that move between horizontal orientations are shown in the diagram.

[0043] Figure 54 This is a lateral cross-sectional view of an example top-mounted installation device with two anchor rods in a vertical orientation.

[0044] Figure 55 This is a lateral cross-sectional view of an example top-mounted device with two anchor rods in a horizontal orientation.

[0045] Figure 56 This is a top view of an example top-mounted installation device with two anchoring members in a vertical orientation.

[0046] Figure 57 This is a perspective view of an example top-mounted device.

[0047] Figure 58 This is a side cross-sectional view of an example top-mounted device.

[0048] Figure 59 This is a side view of an example top-mounted device.

[0049] Figure 60 This is a top view of an example top-mounted device.

[0050] Figure 61This is a perspective view of an example top-mounted device.

[0051] The corresponding reference numerals in the attached drawings indicate the corresponding components. Detailed Implementation

[0052] Various aspects of this disclosure relate to top-mounting devices that enable users to install fixtures onto the surface of a structure from an adjacent and easily accessible area. This top-mounting structure can reduce or eliminate the number of tasks requiring users to physically access adjacent areas that are difficult or inconvenient to access, or otherwise make the installation process more difficult, time-consuming, and / or dangerous. For example, the top-mounting device can be used to install a faucet from the top of a work surface that is easily accessible to the user. This reduces or eliminates the number of tasks requiring the user to access the space beneath the work surface to install the faucet. The top-mounting device also makes installation and the installation process easier and faster, requiring fewer parts and tools.

[0053] The top-mounted device may include a base connectable to a fixing device such as a faucet and an anchor that mates with the base to form a clamping clamp on a structure such as a workbench. The base is positioned above the surface of the structure on which the fixing device is mounted, such as the top of a workbench on which the faucet is mounted. The anchor can be inserted through the structure, for example, through a hole in the workbench, and can be moved relative to the base to a clamping position where the anchoring surface of the anchor engages another surface of the structure, such as the bottom of the workbench. The anchor is connected to a sleeve that engages a shaft extending from the base; for example, the sleeve receives or is received by the shaft. The sleeve and the anchor can be moved relative to the shaft to move the anchor toward the base to the clamping position. The movement of the sleeve and the anchor can be caused by a threaded engagement between fasteners within the sleeve. The shaft and sleeve may also include complementary anti-rotation shapes that restrict relative rotation between the shaft and sleeve during engagement between the fastener and sleeve, thereby allowing engagement between the fastener and sleeve to translate the rotation of the fastener into movement of the sleeve and anchor relative to the shaft toward the base.

[0054] For illustrative purposes, certain features are illustrated in the following description and accompanying drawings. The advantages will become more apparent upon reading the full contents of this disclosure.

[0055] One or more specific embodiments of this disclosure have been described. These described embodiments are merely examples of the currently disclosed technology. Additionally, to provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of actual implementations may be described in the specification. It should be understood that in the development of any such actual implementation, such as in any engineering or design project, many implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific objectives, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary depending on the implementation. Furthermore, it should be understood that although such development work may be complex and time-consuming, it remains a conventional technical means of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure.

[0056] Figure 1 A mounting device 104 is described, which can be mounted on a structure. In this example, the mounting device is a faucet 100, and the structure is a work surface 102. The top mounting device 104 allows a user to mount the faucet 100 onto the work surface 102 from the top. The top mounting device 104 can reduce or eliminate the number of tasks required to install the faucet 100 that necessitate the user reaching the bottom of the work surface 102 or the space beneath it. Additionally, the top mounting device 104 may require fewer parts and / or tools to install the faucet 100. The top mounting device 104 also enables the faucet 100 to be mounted onto the work surface 102 from the top in a quick and user-friendly manner.

[0057] Example faucet 100 includes a body 106, which includes a spout 108 and a handle 110. The spout 108 can dispense water or other liquids, and the handle 110 can be actuated by a user to control the flow of water from the spout 108. The handle 110 may be located on one side of the body 106. The body 106 may have a hollow interior to accommodate a water hose or conduit that connects the faucet 100 to a water supply device via a hole 112 in a work surface 102. The bottom 114 of the body 106 may be connected to a top mounting device 104 by a set screw 116 or by another suitable retainer such as a key or another fastener. For example, the top mounting device 104 may be mounted on the work surface 102, and the body 106 may then be connected to the top mounting device 104 via the set screw 116, wherein the top mounting device 104 anchors the faucet 100 to the work surface 102.

[0058] The top-mounted device 104 includes a base 118 and an anchor 120. The base 118 can be positioned above a first surface (here, the top surface) of the worktable 102. The anchor 120 anchors or secures the top-mounted device 104 to the worktable 102. The anchor 120 can be inserted into a hole 112 from the top of the worktable 102 and is movable relative to the base 118 to a clamping position. In the clamping position, the anchor 120 contacts a second surface (here, the bottom surface) of the worktable 102, thereby forming a clamping action with the base 118 on the worktable 102. The anchor 120 may include or be coupled to an anti-rotation sleeve 122 that engages an anti-rotation shaft 124 extending from the base 118, for example, the anti-rotation sleeve 122 receiving or being received by the anti-rotation shaft 124. The anti-rotation sleeve 122 may receive the anti-rotation shaft 124. Alternatively, the anti-rotation shaft 124 may receive the anti-rotation sleeve 122. The anti-rotation sleeve 122 and the anti-rotation shaft 124 may have complementary anti-rotation shapes. The complementary anti-rotation shapes may cooperate to limit or prevent the anchor 120 from rotating relative to the shaft 124 and the base 118 when the anchor 120 moves to the clamping position.

[0059] Anti-rotation shaft 124 and anti-rotation sleeve 122 each house a clamping bolt 126. The clamping bolt 126 is operatively connected to the anti-rotation sleeve 122 and is accessible at its base 118 for user manipulation. The user can manipulate the clamping bolt 126 from a convenient position, such as above the workbench 102, using a screwdriver, wrench, or other suitable tool. For example, the user can manipulate the clamping bolt 126 using a screwdriver with a hexagonal insert. The clamping bolt 126 is rotatable relative to the anti-rotation sleeve 122 and anti-rotation shaft 124 within the anti-rotation sleeve 122 and anti-rotation shaft 124. The clamping bolt 126 engages the anti-rotation sleeve 122 such that rotation of the clamping bolt 126 causes the anti-rotation sleeve 122 to move upward and downward relative to the shaft 124. For example, the clamping bolt 126 can engage the internal threads of the anti-rotation sleeve 122 to move the sleeve 122. When tightened, the clamping bolt 126 allows the sleeve 122 to move upward toward the base 118, and when loosened, the clamping bolt 126 allows the sleeve 122 to move downward away from the base 118. The user can tighten the clamping bolt 126 to move the anti-rotation sleeve 122 and the anchor 120 upward toward the base 118 to the clamped position.

[0060] The movement of sleeve 122 relative to shaft 124 is facilitated by the rotation of bolt 126 via complementary anti-rotation shapes of sleeve 122 and shaft 124. More specifically, the complementary anti-rotation shapes of sleeve 122 and shaft 124 restrict or constrain relative rotation between shaft 124 and sleeve 122, while bolt 126 is allowed to rotate. Rotation of bolt 126 relative to sleeve 122 can be converted into vertical movement of sleeve 122 relative to shaft 124 via the threaded engagement between bolt 126 and sleeve 122. The anti-rotation shapes thus control the rotational relationship between sleeve 122, shaft 124, and bolt 126. Therefore, the top-mounted device 104 is greatly simplified, and the user can more easily mount the top-mounted device 104 onto the worktable 102.

[0061] When the anchor 120 is positioned below the worktable 102, it can be moved to a clamping position and contact the bottom surface of the worktable 102. The base 118 can be sized and shaped to sit on and / or above the worktable 102 and the hole 112, but not fully inserted through the hole 112. Therefore, when the anchor 120 is in the clamping position, the base 118 and the anchor 120 clamp the worktable 102, and the base 118 and the anchor 120 secure the top-mounted device to the worktable 102. The body 106 of the faucet 100 can then be installed, and the base 118 above the worktable 102 is received by the bottom 114 of the body 106. The body 106 can then be attached to the base 118 via a set screw 116 or another suitable retainer.

[0062] Figure 2 Another mounting device that can be mounted on a structure via a top mounting device 204 is depicted. Similarly, this mounting device is a faucet 200 and the structure is a work surface 202. The top mounting device 204 can be similar to the top mounting device 104, wherein the same reference numerals are used to indicate the same components. For simplicity and clarity, the differences between faucet 200 and faucet 100 can be described. The similarities between faucet 200 and faucet 100 can be seen from... Figure 1 and Figure 2 This can be seen from the text.

[0063] Example faucet 200 includes a body 206 comprising a spout 208 and a handle 210, similar to the body 106 of faucet 100 described above. In this example, the handle 210 may be located on top of the body 206. The body 206 may have a hollow interior to accommodate a water hose or conduit that connects the faucet 200 to a water supply device via a hole 212 in the work surface 202. The bottom 214 of the body 206 may be connected to a top mounting device 204 by a set screw 216 or by another suitable retainer such as a key or another fastener. For example, the top mounting device 204 may be mounted on the work surface 202, and the body 206 may then be connected to the top mounting device 204 via the set screw 216, wherein the top mounting device 204 anchors the faucet 200 to the work surface 202.

[0064] Figure 3 Another mounting device that can be installed on the structure via a top-mounted mounting device 304 is depicted. Similarly, this mounting device is a faucet 300 and the structure is a work surface 302. The top-mounted mounting device 304 can be similar to the top-mounted mounting device 104. For simplicity and clarity, the differences between the faucet 300 and faucets 100 and 200 can be described. The similarities between the faucet 300 and faucets 100 and 200 can be seen from... Figures 1 to 3 This can be seen from the text.

[0065] Example faucet 300 includes a trim panel 314 with two handles 310, 311. The handles 310, 311 can be individually actuated by a user to control the flow of hot or cold water from a spout 308. The spout 308 can be attached to the trim panel 314 via a set screw 316 or another suitable retainer such as a key or another fastener. The trim panel 314 is mounted on a work surface 302 and may include or be coupled to a shaft 324 of a top mounting device 304. The top mounting device 304 also includes a sleeve 322 having an anti-rotation shape complementary to the shaft 324, similar to the sleeve 122 and shaft 124 described above. A clamping bolt 326 of the top mounting device 304 is received in the sleeve 322 and shaft 324.

[0066] The movement of sleeve 322 toward trim panel 314 causes anchor 320 of top mounting device 304 to move toward the bottom of worktable surface 302. Anchor 320 can contact the bottom of worktable surface 302 in a clamped position. Anchor 320 in the clamped position can secure or anchor trim panel 314 to worktable surface 302. Anchor 320, sleeve 322, and shaft 324 are inserted through a central hole 312 in worktable surface 302, which can be covered by trim panel 314. Worktable surface 302 may also include side holes 313 that receive lugs 328 of trim panel 314 to position trim panel 314 on worktable surface 302 and / or prevent lateral movement of trim panel 314 relative to worktable surface 302.

[0067] Reference Figure 4 The clamping bolt 326 is accessible via a through-hole 330 in the trim panel 314, allowing the user to manipulate the set screw 316. The user can manipulate the bolt 326 from a convenient position, such as above the workbench surface 302, using a screwdriver, wrench, or other suitable tool. For example, the user can manipulate the bolt 326 using a screwdriver with a hexagonal insert. The clamping bolt 326 is rotatable within the sleeve 322 and the shaft 324, and the sleeve 322 is threadedly engaged. The engagement between the bolt 326 and the sleeve 322 converts the rotation of the bolt 326 into vertical movement of the sleeve 322 toward and away from the trim panel 314, as described above.

[0068] Figure 5 Another example of a fixing device that can be mounted on a structure via top mounting devices 504, 505 is depicted. In this example, the fixing device forms a faucet 500 and includes a spout 508 and a handle 510. The structure is a work surface 502. The spout 508 and handle 510 can be individually mounted on the work surface 502 via corresponding top mounting devices 504, 505. Top mounting devices 504, 505 can be similar to the top mounting devices 104, 304 described above. For simplicity and clarity, the differences between faucet 500 and faucets 100, 200, 300 can be described. The similarities between faucet 500 and faucets 100, 200, 300 can be seen from... Figures 1 to 3 as well as Figure 5 This can be seen from the text.

[0069] The water outlet 508 is fixed or anchored to the work surface 502 at the bottom 514 via a first top mounting device 504. The first top mounting device 504 may include... Figure 1 Similar features and components to the top mounting device 104, wherein similar features and components are indicated by similar reference numerals. The first top mounting device 304 may be located at the first hole 512 on the worktable surface 502.

[0070] The handle 510 is secured or anchored to the worktable 502 via a second top mounting device 505. The second top mounting device 505 may be located at a second hole 513 in the worktable 502. The second top mounting device 505 includes a base 518 that can be seated at the second hole 513. The base 518 may be coupled to or integrated with a mounting structure 530 of the handle 510. The mounting structure 530 may be mounted on the worktable 502 above the second hole 513. The mounting structure 530 may secure the base 518 relative to the worktable 502. The second top mounting device 505 also includes an anchor 520 movably coupled to the base 518. For example, the anchor 520 may be coupled to the base 518 via an interlock 524. The anchor 520 may move toward and away from the base 518 between a clamped position and an unclamped position. The movement of the anchor 520 can be controlled by the clamping bolt 526 received by the interlocking sleeve 522 of the anchor 520.

[0071] Reference Figure 6 The interlocking sleeve 522 can mate with the shaft or tail 528 of the base 518 to form an interlock 524. For example, the interlocking sleeve 522 can receive the tail 528 of the base 518 to form the interlock 524. Alternatively, the tail 528 of the base 518 can receive the interlocking sleeve 522. The clamping bolt 526 can be accessed via the mounting structure 530. The user can manipulate the bolt 526 from a convenient position, such as above the workbench 502, using a screwdriver, wrench, or other suitable tool. For example, the user can manipulate the bolt 526 using a screwdriver with a hexagonal insert. The clamping bolt 526 can be threadedly engaged within the interlocking sleeve 522. Rotation of the clamping bolt 526 is converted into vertical movement of the sleeve 522 toward and away from the base 518. The interlocking sleeve 522 can also be rotatably fixed relative to the tail 528 of the base 518, thereby restricting or preventing rotation of the anchor 520 relative to the base 518. Therefore, the interlocking member 524 can serve as an anti-rotation mechanism between the anchor 520 and the base 518, while allowing the anchor 520 to move vertically between a clamped position and an unclamped position. In the clamped position, the anchor 520 can contact the bottom of the worktable 502, thereby fixing or anchoring the base 518 and the mounting structure 530 to the worktable 502.

[0072] Now refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8An example of a top-mounting device that can be used to mount a fixing device onto a structure is shown separately and is generally indicated by reference numeral 700. The top-mounting device 700 can be used to mount any of faucets 100, 200, 300, and 500 onto workbenches 102, 202, 302, and 502. The top-mounting device 700 includes a base 702 and includes an anchor movable relative to the base 702 between a clamped position and an unclamped position. The anchor may include an anchor collar 704. The anchor collar 704 can be moved by a user operating a clamping bolt 706 from a convenient position, for example, from above the workbench. In the clamped position, the anchor collar 704 contacts a second surface (here, the bottom surface) of the workbench. The anchor collar 704 in the clamped position engages with a flange 708 of the base 702 to form a clamp on the workbench. Flange 708 contacts a first surface (here, the top surface) of the work surface, and flange 708 restricts or prevents base 702 from fully inserting through the work surface. Additionally or alternatively, flange 708 contacts a top surface of a trim panel or other mounting structure positioned on the work surface.

[0073] The base 702 may include a cylindrical body 710 positioned above a workbench surface when the top mounting device 700 is installed. The cylindrical body 710 may be sized and shaped to insert into the bottom of a fastener (such as a faucet spout or faucet handle). The cylindrical body 710 may include a ridge 712 that allows for the orientation and guidance of the fastener on the base 702. The base 702 may be open at both ends to allow a user to route conduits, hoses, or other connections through the base 702 and structures such as the workbench surface. The cylindrical body 710 may also include a cutout 714 for receiving the head of a clamping bolt 706. The user can access and manipulate the bolt 706 from the top of the structure through the cutout 714. Additionally or alternatively, the user can access and manipulate the bolt 706 from the open top end of the base 702.

[0074] Flange 708 may extend radially outward from the cylindrical body 710 of the base 702 near the bottom of the cylindrical body 710. Flange 708 may be vertically offset from the bottom of the cylindrical body 710 such that a portion of the cylindrical body 710 extends below flange 708. The portion of the cylindrical body 710 below flange 708 may define a guide 716, which inserts into a hole in the worktable to position the base 702 on the worktable. Additionally or alternatively, guide 716 may be inserted into a hole in a trim panel or into a hole in another mounting structure positioned on the worktable. Guide 716 may be long enough to extend within the hole in the trim panel or other mounting structure and within the hole in the worktable. Guide 716 may engage within the hole to limit or prevent lateral movement of the top-mounted device 700 relative to the worktable.

[0075] The top-mounted device 700 also includes an anti-rotation shaft 718. The anti-rotation shaft 718 can be connected to the cylindrical body 710 and can extend downwards from the base 702. The shaft 718 can be connected to the cylindrical body 710 or can be integrally formed as a one-piece unit with the cylindrical body 710. The shaft 718 can be tubular and can accommodate a clamping bolt 706. The shaft 718 can be sized and shaped to allow the clamping bolt 706 to rotate within the shaft 718.

[0076] Shaft 718 also has an anti-rotation shape complementary to anti-rotation sleeve 720. Anti-rotation sleeve 720 can be connected to anchor collar 704. Anti-rotation sleeve 720 can be connected to anchor collar 704 or can be integral with anchor collar 704. Anti-rotation shaft 718 can engage anti-rotation sleeve 720 to limit relative rotation between shaft and sleeve. Anti-rotation sleeve 720 can define cavity 722, which, when shaft and sleeve are engaged, corresponds to the central channel 728 of shaft 718. Figure 10 Alignment. Cavity 722 may receive shaft 718. Shaft 718 and cavity 722 may have complementary anti-rotation shapes. Anti-rotation shapes may restrict or prevent rotation of shaft 718 within cavity 722. For example, shaft 718 and cavity 722 may be hexagonal. In other examples, shaft 718 and cavity 722 may have any complementary anti-rotation shapes that restrict or prevent rotation of shaft 718 within cavity 722. For example, shaft 718 and cavity 722 may have complementary polygonal shapes, oblong shapes, elliptical shapes, or other anti-rotation shapes such as any shape other than circular. Alternatively, the central channel 728 of shaft 718 may receive sleeve 720, and the central channel and sleeve may have any of the aforementioned complementary anti-rotation shapes.

[0077] The clamping bolt 706 can extend through the shaft 718 and the cavity 722. The bolt 706 can be threadedly engaged within the cavity 722, such that rotation of the clamping bolt 706 is converted into vertical movement of the sleeve 720 relative to the shaft 718. See below. Figure 10 The interaction between bolt 706 and cavity 722 and the movement of sleeve 720 relative to shaft 718 are described.

[0078] Anchor collar 704 can expand outward from sleeve 720 to anchor surface 724. When top mounting device 700 is installed, anchor surface 724 can face the bottom of the worktable. When anchor collar 704 moves to the clamping position, anchor surface 724 can also contact the bottom of the worktable. The outward expansion of anchor collar 704 can be defined by a tapered sidewall 726 connected to sleeve 720. Sidewall 726 can be coupled to sleeve 720 or can be integrally formed as a one-piece unit with sleeve 720. In this example, sidewall 726 can be semi-conical, and anchor surface 724 can be correspondingly semi-circular. The shapes of sidewall 726 and anchor surface 724 can be complementary to the shape of a hole in the worktable through which anchor collar 704 and sleeve 720 are inserted. For example, semi-conical sidewall 726 and semi-circular anchor surface 724 can be complementary to the circular shape of the hole. However, the shape of the anchoring collar 704 is not limited and can be any shape that complements the shape of the hole in the worktable, through which the anchoring collar 704 is inserted.

[0079] Shaft 718 may be connected to base 702. Shaft 718 may be coupled to base 702 or may be integral with base 702. Shaft 718 may be connected to base 702 at or near one side of cylindrical body 710. Cylindrical body 710 extends circumferentially and outwardly from shaft 718 and in a direction opposite to anchoring collar 704. Shaft 718 may be connected to inner surface of cylindrical body 710 and / or to bottom of guide member 716. Shaft 718 may extend downward from guide member 716 without extending radially outward beyond guide member 716 so as not to interfere with engagement between base 702 and worktable or mounting structure.

[0080] Reference Figure 9 The anchoring collar 704 can be offset laterally or radially from the cylindrical body 710 of the base 702. When the base 702 is positioned above the hole in the worktable surface, the offset between the anchoring collar 704 and the cylindrical body 710 can position the anchoring collar 704 below the bottom surface of the worktable surface. The offset between the anchoring collar 704 and the cylindrical body 710 can be defined by the anchor surface 724 and the cylindrical body 710 of the base 702 extending outward in the opposite direction to the shaft 718 and the sleeve 720.

[0081] Reference Figure 10The tubular shaft 718 may define a central channel 728 aligned with the cavity 722 of the sleeve 720 relative to the longitudinal axis A1. The shaft 718 may also extend at least partially within the cavity 722 of the sleeve 720. The shaft 718 may engage within the cavity 722 of the sleeve 720 by a complementary anti-rotation shape. This anti-rotation engagement of the shaft 718 in the cavity 722 may limit or prevent relative rotation between the shaft 718 and the sleeve 720 about the longitudinal axis A1. The shaft 718 may also be fitted within the cavity 722 of the sleeve 720 by a near-interference fit. Preferably, a clearance is provided between the shaft 718 and the sleeve 720 such that the sleeve 720 is movable relative to the shaft 718 along the longitudinal axis A1. Directional terms such as “axial,” “radial,” “vertical,” “longitudinal,” “lateral,” “top,” “bottom,” “downward,” and “upward” can be used to describe a top-mounted device relative to the longitudinal axis A1, and these directional terms are not limited to any particular orientation of the top-mounted device. Alternatively, the sleeve 720 may engage within the central channel 728 of the shaft 718 by means of a complementary anti-rotation shape, and the sleeve may be fitted within the central channel by means of an approximately interference fit.

[0082] The clamping bolt 706 may have a tail 730 received by a central channel 728 of the shaft 718 and a cavity 722 of the sleeve 720, and the tail 730 extends along a longitudinal axis A1 through the central channel 728 and the cavity 722. Each of the central channel 728 and the cavity 722 may be sized to accommodate the tail 730 of the clamping bolt 706 and allow rotation of the clamping bolt 706. The head 732 of the clamping bolt 706 may be seated on top of the shaft 718. The head 732 may be sized and shaped such that the head 732 stops at the top of the shaft 718 and is restricted or prevented from insertion into the central channel 728. The head 732 may also be accessed via a cutout 714 in the cylindrical body 710 of the base 702, allowing a user to manipulate the clamping bolt 706 using a screwdriver, wrench, or other suitable tool. Additionally or alternatively, the head 732 can be accessed and manipulated via the open tip of the base 702. For example, a user can manipulate the bolt 706 via the head 732 using a screwdriver with a hexagonal insert.

[0083] Shaft 718 may extend downward from base 702 by a length L1, which is measured along the longitudinal axis A1. Length L1 is measured as the distance between the bottom of guide 716 and the bottom of shaft 718. Shaft 718 may also include an additional length L2 measured along the longitudinal axis A1. Length L2 is measured as the distance between the top of shaft 718 and the bottom of guide 716. The total length of the central channel 728 of shaft 718 may be the sum of lengths L1 and L2. The internal dimensions (e.g., inner diameter or inner cross-sectional area) of the central channel 728 may be substantially constant along lengths L1 and L2. The internal dimensions of the central channel 728 may be sized to accommodate the tail 730 of clamping bolt 706 and allow the clamping bolt 706 to rotate. The external dimensions (e.g., outer perimeter or outer cross-sectional area) of shaft 718 may also be substantially constant, at least along length L1. The external dimensions of shaft 718 are sized to maintain anti-rotation engagement of shaft 718 in cavity 722. The external dimensions of shaft 718 may also be sized to allow sleeve 720 to move relative to shaft 718 along longitudinal axis A1.

[0084] Sleeve 720 has a length L3 measured along the longitudinal axis A1. Length L3 is measured as the distance between the top of sleeve 720 and the bottom step 734 of sleeve 720. The internal dimensions of sleeve 720 (e.g., the inner circumference or cross-sectional area of ​​cavity 722) can be substantially constant along length L3. The internal dimensions of sleeve 720 can be sized to accommodate the tail 730 and shaft 718 within cavity 722. The internal dimensions of sleeve 720 along length L3 can also be sized to maintain anti-rotational engagement of shaft 718 within cavity 722. The internal dimensions of sleeve 720 can also be sized to allow sleeve 720 to move relative to shaft 718 along the longitudinal axis A1. The bottom step 734 of sleeve 720 can contract or decrease the internal dimensions of sleeve 720 along length L4. Length L4 is measured between the top of bottom step 734 (where length L3 terminates) and the bottom of sleeve 720. The bottom step portion 734 can define a threaded hole 736 that extends by a length L4 and allows for threaded engagement between the tail portion 730 and the sleeve 720.

[0085] Length L3 may correspond to length L1 of shaft 718. For example, lengths L3 and L1 may be approximately equal. Suitably, lengths L3 and L1 may be dimensioned to allow sleeve 720 to move upward relative to shaft 718. More specifically, lengths L1 and L3 may be dimensioned to allow sleeve 720 to move sufficiently along or relative to shaft 718 to allow anchor collar 704 to contact the bottom surface of the worktable when base 702 is seated on and / or above the worktable. In other words, lengths L1 and L3 may be dimensioned such that the distance between anchor surface 724 and flange 708 can be reduced to a sufficiently small dimension to create a firm and reliable clamping on the worktable. If length L3 is too short or length L1 is too long, the bottom step 734 may interfere with shaft 718 during upward movement of sleeve 720. Premature interference between shaft 718 and bottom step 734 can prevent reliable clamping on the worktable and between anchor collar 704 and flange 708.

[0086] The tail portion 730 may be threaded to complement the threads within the threaded hole 736. The tail portion 730 has a length L5 measured along the longitudinal axis A1. The length L5 is measured as the distance between the head 732 of the clamping bolt 706 and the bottom of the tail portion 730. The length L5 may be approximately equal to or greater than the sum of lengths L1, L2, L3, and L4, such that the tail portion 730 can extend through the central channel 728, the cavity 722, and the threaded hole 736. The length L5 may be long enough for the tail portion 730 to extend through the central channel 728, the cavity 722, and the threaded hole 736, without the shaft 718 being received in the cavity 722. Alternatively, the length L5 of the tail portion 730 may be shorter than the sum of lengths L1, L2, L3, and L4. In such an example, the shaft 718 may be received at least partially by the sleeve 720 before the tail portion 730 can reach the threaded hole 736.

[0087] Still refer to Figure 10For assembling the top mounting device 700, the sleeve 720 can be positioned relative to the shaft 718, with the cavity 722 aligned with the central channel 728 along axis A1. The sleeve 720 can also be positioned such that the anchoring collar 704 is offset from the base 702 relative to the longitudinal axis A1. The clamping bolt 706 can be inserted into the cavity 722 and the central channel 728, and the shaft 718 can be received by the sleeve 720 in either process. Alternatively, the clamping bolt 706 can be inserted into the cavity 722 and the central channel 728, and the sleeve 720 can be received by the shaft 718 in either process. The tail 730 of the clamping bolt 706 can be rotated in the cavity 722 and the central channel 728 by the user manipulating the head 732 of the clamping bolt 706. The clamping bolt 706 can be tightened via a threaded engagement between the tail 730 and the threaded hole 736. When the clamping bolt 706 is tightened, the engagement between the threaded hole 736 and the threaded tail 730 may cause the sleeve 720 and the anchoring collar 704 to move upward toward the base 702 along or relative to the shaft 718 and the longitudinal axis A1. The threaded engagement of the tail 730 in the hole 736 can convert the rotation of the clamping bolt 706 into axial or vertical movement of the sleeve 720 along or relative to the shaft 718 via an anti-rotation engagement of the shaft 718 in the cavity 722 or alternatively via an anti-rotation engagement of the sleeve 720 in the central channel 728. This eliminates the need for any additional tools or other components to rotatably secure the sleeve 720 and the anchoring collar 704 relative to the shaft 718 and / or the base 702, and this simplifies the assembly and clamping process by using the top-mounted device 700.

[0088] Reference Figures 11 to 15The diagram illustrates the process of installing a top mounting device 700 on a worktable 738. The assembled sleeve 720 and shaft 718 of the top mounting device 700 can be inserted through a hole 740 in the worktable 738. An anchoring collar 704 is also inserted through the hole 740 along with the sleeve 720. The top mounting device 700 inserted into the hole 740 can be moved rearward to position the anchoring collar 704 below the worktable 738. This positions the anchoring collar 704 such that the anchor surface 724 faces the bottom surface of the worktable 738. Moving the top mounting device 700 rearward also aligns the base 702 with the hole 740. A guide 716 can be fitted within the hole 740 to position the base 702 above the hole 740 and to position the anchoring collar 704 behind the hole 740 and below the bottom surface. The flange 708 can then be seated on the top surface of the worktable 738 surrounding the hole 740. The user can then access and manipulate the clamping bolt 706 with a tool 742, such as a screwdriver or wrench, through a cut 714 in the cylindrical body 710 of the base 702 and / or through the open tip of the base. For example, the user can manipulate the bolt 706 via the head 732 using a screwdriver with a hexagonal insert.

[0089] Rotation of the clamping bolt 706 using tool 742 causes the anchoring collar 704 and sleeve 720 to move upward toward the base 702 via the threaded engagement of the clamping bolt 706 in the sleeve 720 as described above. The clamping bolt 706 can be tightened to bring the anchoring collar 704 into a clamped position in which the anchoring surface 724 contacts the bottom surface of the worktable 738. This creates clamping between the anchoring surface 724 and the flange 708 on the worktable 738. With the top mounting device 700 fixed or clamped to the worktable 738, the faucet spout and / or handle 744 can be connected to the base 702. A water conduit, hose, or pipe 746 can be installed through the base 702 and the hole 740 in the worktable 738 to connect the faucet to a water supply device. The spout and / or handle 744 can be secured to the base 702 via a set screw 748 or another suitable retainer such as a key or another fastener.

[0090] Turn now Figure 16 and Figure 17 Another example of a top-mounted device that can be used to mount a fixing device on a structure is shown separately and is generally indicated by reference numeral 1600. The top-mounted device 1600 can be used to mount any of faucets 100, 200, 300, and 500 on work surfaces 102, 202, 302, and 502. Figures 18 to 20Further views of the top-mounted device 1600 are provided. This example of the top-mounted device 1600 may include... Figures 7 to 10 The top-mounted device 700 contains similar elements and components. The same reference numerals are used to denote the same parts. For brevity and clarity, the differences between the top-mounted device 1600 and the top-mounted device 700 can be described. The similarities between the top-mounted device 1600 and the top-mounted device 700 can be seen from... Figures 7 to 26 As can be seen from the above. Elements and components in the top mounting device 700 that are not marked or explicitly described in the top mounting device 1600 are not necessarily excluded. The top mounting device 1600 may include any element or component of the top mounting device 700, and conversely, the top mounting device 700 may include any element or component of the top mounting device 1600, unless otherwise expressly stated or the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0091] The top-mounting device 1600 includes a base 702 and an anchor movable relative to the base 702 between a clamped position and an unclamped position. In this example, the anchor may include an anchor arm 1602. The top-mounting device 1600 may include more than one anchor arm 1602, such as two anchor arms 1602. The anchor arm 1602 is coupled to a sleeve 720 and can move relative to the shaft 718 toward the base 702 as the sleeve 720 moves. As described above, the sleeve 720 and the anchor arm 1602 can be moved relative to the base 702 by a user manipulating a clamping bolt 706. The anchor arm 1602 includes an anchoring surface 1604 that can contact the bottom of a worktable surface when the anchor arm 1602 is in the clamped position.

[0092] The anchor arm 1602 can also rotate or pivot relative to the sleeve 720 between a first orientation (here, horizontal orientation) and a second orientation (here, vertical orientation). See below for reference. Figures 21 to 24 The movement of the anchor arm 1602 between a horizontal orientation and a vertical orientation is described. The horizontal orientation of the anchor arm 1602 can correspond to the clamping position of the anchor arm 1602. In the horizontal orientation, the anchoring surface 1604 of the anchor arm 1602 faces upward toward the base 702 for contacting the bottom of the worktable. Additionally, in the horizontal orientation, the anchor arm 1602 can restrict or prevent the top mounting device 1600 from moving upward through the hole in the worktable. Additionally, in the horizontal orientation, the anchor arm 1602 extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A1 between a first end 1608 and a second end 1610. In the horizontal orientation, the first end 1608 and the second end 1610 are each positioned outwardly beyond the base 702, and the anchor arm 1602 forms a T-shaped profile with the sleeve 720.

[0093] Anchor arm 1602 has a length L6 measured between a first end 1608 and a second end 1610. The length L6 can be sized to provide sufficient contact between the anchoring surface 1604 and the bottom surface of the worktable for reliable clamping with the flange 708 of the base 702. Anchor arm 1602 may also include a structural block 1614. Structural block 1614 can be positioned at the first end 1608 and / or the second end 1610. Structural block 1614 protrudes outward at the first end 1608 and / or the second end 1610 and is generally orthogonal to the length L6. Structural block 1614 can provide additional surface area contact between the anchoring surface 1604 and the bottom surface of the worktable in a direction orthogonal to the length L6. Structural block 1614 can thus achieve more reliable clamping between anchor arm 1602 and flange 708.

[0094] The length L6 of the anchoring arm 1602 can restrict or prevent the anchoring arm 1602 from being inserted into the hole through the worktable surface in a horizontal orientation. The anchoring arm 1602 can be rotated or pivoted to a vertical orientation so that the anchoring arm 1602 can be inserted into the hole through the worktable surface. The anchoring arm 1602 is sized to be inserted into the hole through the worktable surface in a vertical orientation. The anchoring arm 1602 has a height H1 measured between the anchoring surface 1604 and the bottom surface 1612. The height H1 is less than the internal dimension of the hole in the worktable surface, such as the inner diameter. The structural block 1614 can also protrude outward from the first end 1608 and / or the second end 1610 by a width W1. The width W1 is less than the internal dimension of the hole in the worktable surface.

[0095] The top-mounted device 1600 in this example includes a cam mechanism 1606. The cam mechanism 1606 enables the anchoring arm 1602 to rotate or pivot between a horizontal and a vertical orientation. The cam mechanism 1606 includes a camshaft 1616 projecting from a sleeve 720 and a cam slot 1618 defined in the anchoring arm 1602. The camshaft 1616 is received in the cam slot 1618. The cam slot 1618 enables the anchoring arm 1602 to rotate or pivot about the camshaft 1616. The cam slot 1618 is angled between a first slot end 1620 near the anchoring surface 1604 and a second slot end 1622 near the bottom surface 1612. When the anchoring arm 1602 moves toward a horizontal orientation, the camshaft 1616 is guided in the cam slot 1618 toward the first slot end 1620. As the anchor arm 1602 moves toward the vertical orientation, the camshaft 1616 is guided in the cam slot 1618 toward the second slot end 1622. The anchor arm 1602 can also be secured to the camshaft 1616 by means of a screw head bolt 1624 or by another suitable fastener that holds the camshaft 1616 within the cam slot 1618.

[0096] The first slot end 1620 of the cam slot 1618 can be generally positioned at the middle of the arm 1602 and between the first end 1608 and the second end 1610. The second slot end 1622 of the cam slot 1618 can be offset from the middle toward the first end 1608 of the arm 1602. The structural block 1614 can be positioned at the second end 1610 of the anchor arm 1602 and can add weight to the anchor arm 1602 at the second end 1610. The additional weight from the structural block at the second end 1610 can bias the anchor arm 1602 toward a vertical orientation. The second end 1610 of the anchor arm faces downward in the vertical orientation. More specifically, the additional weight at the second end 1610 can naturally guide the camshaft 1616 toward the second slot end 1622 in the cam slot 1618 and cause the anchor arm 1602 to pivot or rotate toward a vertical orientation. Then, by guiding the camshaft 1616 toward the first slot end 1620 in the cam slot 1618, the anchor arm 1602 can be moved to a horizontal orientation.

[0097] The first end 1608 of the anchor arm 1602 may have a wavy or curved surface 1626. The curved surface 1626 transitions from the anchor surface 1604. The curved surface 1626 gradually decreases the height H1 of the anchor arm 1602 from the anchor surface 1604 toward the first end 1608. When the anchor arm 1602 is in a vertical orientation, the curved surface 1626 faces upward. When the anchor arm 1602 moves upward toward the bottom surface of the worktable to a clamping position, the curved surface 1626 engages with the bottom surface of the worktable. The engagement between the curved surface and the bottom surface of the worktable guides the camshaft 1616 toward the first slot end 1620 in the cam slot 1618. This causes the anchor arm 1602 to pivot or rotate toward a horizontal orientation.

[0098] Figure 21 and Figure 22 The anchoring arm 1602 is depicted from Figure 21 Vertical orientation in Figure 22 The process of horizontal orientation movement within. Figure 23 and Figure 24 The process was also depicted from different views, in which, Figure 23 Anchor arm 1602 in a vertical orientation is shown. Figure 24An anchor arm 1602 is shown in a horizontal orientation. Anchor arm 1602 can be biased towards a vertical orientation by gravity and the weight of structural block 1614. Anchor arm 1602 can be laterally offset from base 702 such that anchor surface 1604 and curved surface 1626 protrude radially outward beyond base 702. Curved surface 1626 can be vertically oriented upward to engage the bottom surface of the worktable. Structural block 1614 can vertically engage sleeve 720 to restrict rotation of anchor arm 1602. Alternatively, if sleeve 720 is received by shaft 718, structural block 1614 can engage shaft. Engagement between structural block 1614 and sleeve 720 or between structural block and shaft 718 can align curved surface 1626 vertically to engage the bottom surface of the worktable. As the anchor arm 1602 moves toward a horizontal orientation, for example via the engagement between the curved surface 1626 and the bottom surface of the worktable, the anchor surface 1604 gradually faces upward and can engage with the bottom surface of the worktable.

[0099] Reference Figures 25 to 28 as well as Figure 29 and Figure 30 The diagram illustrates the process of mounting the top mounting device 1600 onto a worktable surface 1638. The assembled sleeve 720, shaft 718, and anchoring arm 1602 of the top mounting device 1600 can be inserted through a hole 1640 in the worktable surface 1638. The anchoring arm 1602 is vertically oriented when inserted through the hole 1640, with the first end 1608 facing upwards and the second end 1610 facing downwards. When the anchoring arm 1602 is inserted through the hole 1640, the curved surface 1626 of the anchoring arm 1602 can be positioned to face a second surface (here, bottom surface 1642) of the worktable surface 1638. Positioning the top mounting device 1600 also aligns the base 702 above the hole 1640 with a flange 708 seated on the worktable surface 1638 surrounding the hole 1640 (here, top surface 1644). The guide 716 can be fitted within the hole 1640 to position the base 702 above the hole 1640 and the anchoring arm 1602 behind the hole 1640 and below the bottom surface 1642. A user can then access and manipulate the clamping bolt 706 using a tool 1646, such as a screwdriver or wrench, via a cut 714 in the base 702 and / or the open tip of the base. For example, the tool 1646 may include a screwdriver with a hexagonal blade.

[0100] Rotation of the clamping bolt 706 using tool 1646 causes the sleeve 720 to move upward toward the base 702 via the threaded engagement of the clamping bolt 706 in the sleeve 720 as described above. The anchoring arm 1602, connected to the sleeve 720, also moves upward toward the clamping position. This causes the curved surface 1626 to contact the bottom surface 1642 of the worktable surface 1638. The clamping bolt 706 can be tightened to move the anchoring arm 1602 to a horizontal orientation via the engagement between the curved surface 1626 and the bottom surface 1642 and via rotation or pivoting of the anchoring arm 1602 through the cam mechanism 1606. The anchoring surface 1604 gradually engages with the bottom surface 1642 in the clamping position of the anchoring arm 1602. The contact between the anchoring surface 1604 and the bottom surface 1642 can create clamping between the anchoring surface 1604 and the flange 708 on the top surface 1644 of the worktable surface 1638. With the top mounting device 1600 fixed or clamped to the work surface 1638, the faucet spout and / or handle 1648 can be connected to the base 702. A water conduit, hose, or pipe 1650 can be installed through the base 702 and the hole 1640 in the work surface 1638 to connect the faucet to the water supply device. The spout and / or handle 1648 can be secured to the base 702 via a set screw 1652 or another suitable retainer such as a key or other fastener.

[0101] Now go to Figure 31 Another example of a top-mounted device that can be used to mount a fixing device onto a structure is shown separately and is generally indicated by reference numeral 3100. The top-mounted device 3100 can be used to mount any of the faucets 100, 200, 300, and 500 onto work surfaces 102, 202, 302, and 502. Figures 32 to 36 Additional views of the top-mounted device 3100 are provided. This example of the top-mounted device 3100 may include elements and components similar to those of the top-mounted devices 700 and 1600 described above. The same reference numerals are used to indicate the same parts. For brevity, the differences between the top-mounted device 3100 and the top-mounted devices 700 and 1600 can be described. The similarities between the top-mounted device 3100 and the top-mounted devices 700 and 1600 can be seen from... Figures 7 to 36 As can be seen from the above. Elements and components in top mounting devices 700 and 1600 that are not marked or explicitly described in top mounting device 3100 are not necessarily excluded. Top mounting device 3100 may include any elements or components of top mounting device 700 and / or top mounting device 1600, and conversely, top mounting device 700 and / or top mounting device 1600 may include any elements or components of top mounting device 3100, unless otherwise expressly stated or the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0102] The top-mounted device 3100 includes a base 702 and an anchor movable relative to the base 702 between a clamped position and an unclamped position. In this example, the anchor may include two anchor arms 3102. Each anchor arm 3102 may be similar to the anchor arm 1602 described above. Each anchor arm 3102 includes an anchoring surface 3104, a curved surface 3106 transitioning from the anchoring surface 3104, and a structural block 3108 opposite the curved surface 3106. Each anchor arm 3102 is coupled to a sleeve 720. For example, each anchor arm 3102 may be coupled to the sleeve 720 via a screw head bolt 1624 of a corresponding cam mechanism 1606 or another suitable fastener. Each anchor arm 3102 may move along or relative to the shaft 718 toward the base 702 together with the sleeve 720. As described above, the sleeve 720 and the anchoring arm 3102 can be moved relative to the base 702 by the user manipulating the clamping bolt 706. When the anchoring arm 3102 is in the clamping position, the anchoring surface 3104 can contact the bottom of the worktable surface.

[0103] The anchor arm 3102 can also rotate or pivot relative to the sleeve 720 between a first orientation (here, horizontal orientation) and a second orientation (here, vertical orientation). The rotation or pivoting of the anchor arm 3102 can be facilitated by a corresponding cam mechanism 1606, the operation of which is similar to the operation of the cam mechanism 1606 described above for the anchor arm 1602.

[0104] Figure 31 and Figure 32 Depicting from Figure 31 Vertical orientation in Figure 32 The process of horizontal orientation movement of the anchor arm 3102 in the middle. Figure 33 and Figure 34 The process was also depicted from different views, in which, Figure 33 An anchor arm 3102 in a vertical orientation is shown. Figure 34An anchor arm 3102 in a horizontal orientation is shown. Anchor arm 3102 can be biased towards a vertical orientation by gravity and the weight of structural block 3108. Anchor arm 3102 can be laterally offset from base 702 such that anchor surface 3104 and curved surface 3106 protrude radially outward beyond base 702. Curved surface 3106 can be vertically oriented upward to engage the bottom surface of the worktable. Structural block 3108 can vertically engage sleeve 720 to restrict rotation of anchor arm 3102. Alternatively, if sleeve 720 is received by shaft 718, structural block 3108 can engage shaft. Engagement between block 3108 and sleeve 720 or between block and shaft 718 can align curved surface 3106 vertically to engage the bottom surface of the worktable. As the anchor arm 3102 moves toward a horizontal orientation, for example via the engagement between the curved surface 3106 and the bottom surface of the worktable, the anchor surface 3104 gradually faces upward and can engage with the bottom surface of the worktable.

[0105] Reference Figure 33 and Figure 34 The anchor arm 3102 can be arranged in a V-shape. Figure 33 In the vertical orientation, the V-shaped anchor arm 3102 can be sized to fit through a hole in the worktable surface. Figure 34 In a horizontal orientation, the V-shaped anchor arm 3102 can provide clearance between the open ends of the base 702 for hoses, conduits, pipes or other connectors installed through the base 70 and the work surface.

[0106] Now go to Figure 37 and Figure 38 Another example of a top-mounted device that can be used to mount a fixing device on a structure is shown separately and is generally indicated by reference numeral 3700. The top-mounted device 3700 can be used to mount any of the faucets 100, 200, 300, and 500 on work surfaces 102, 202, 302, and 502. Figures 39 to 41 Additional views of the top-mounted device 3700 are provided. This example of the top-mounted device 3700 may include elements and components similar to those of top-mounted devices 700, 1600, and / or 3100. The same reference numerals are used to indicate the same parts. For brevity, the differences between the top-mounted device 3700 and the top-mounted devices 700, 1600, and 3100 can be described. The similarities between the top-mounted device 3700 and the top-mounted devices 700, 1600, and 3100 can be seen from... Figures 7 to 41As can be seen from the description, elements and components in top-mounted devices 700, 1600, and 3100 that are not marked or explicitly described in top-mounted device 3700 are not necessarily excluded. Top-mounted device 3700 may include any elements or components of top-mounted devices 700, 1600, and / or 3100, and conversely, top-mounted devices 700, 1600, and / or 3100 may include any elements or components of top-mounted device 3700, unless otherwise expressly stated or indicated by the context.

[0107] The top-mounted device 3700 includes a base 702 and an anchor movable relative to the base 702 between a clamped position and an unclamped position. In this example, the anchor may include an anchor wing 3702. The top-mounted device 3700 may include one or more anchor wings 3702, such as two anchor wings 3702. Each anchor wing 3702 is connected to a sleeve 720. The anchor wing 3702 can be moved along or relative to the axis 718 toward the base 702 by the user manipulating the clamping bolt 706 from a convenient position, such as above a workbench, as described above. The anchor wing 3702 may be coupled to the sleeve 720, or the anchor wing 3702 may be integrally formed with the sleeve 720 as a one-piece unit. Each anchoring wing 3702 includes an anchoring surface 3704 that contacts the bottom of the worktable surface when the anchoring wing 3702 is in the clamping position.

[0108] Anchor wing 3702 extends outward from sleeve 720 and extends in an arc shape below base 702. Anchor wing 3702 is generally concentrically aligned with base 702 relative to axis A2, which is parallel to longitudinal axis A1. Anchor wing 3702 defines an external dimension D1, such as outer diameter, and flange 708 of base 702 defines an external dimension D2, such as outer diameter. External dimension D1 may be approximately equal to or greater than external dimension D2. External dimension D1 of anchor wing 3702 may be sized to position anchor wing 3702 below the bottom surface of worktable when anchor wing 3702 is inserted into a hole in worktable. In other words, external dimension D1 is sized to allow anchoring surface 3704 to contact the bottom surface of worktable. When base 702 is positioned above hole in worktable, anchor wing 3702 is also positioned below bottom surface.

[0109] Anchor wing 3702 is also flexible or supple, allowing it to be inserted into a hole in the worktable surface. More specifically, anchor wing 3702 can bend inward when inserted through the hole in the worktable surface. Anchor wing 3702 can also return to its external dimension D1 when below the worktable surface. Anchor wing 3702 can be made of a suitable elastomer or shape memory material, enabling it to function as described. Once inserted into the hole in the worktable surface, anchor wing 3702 can be moved upward by the user manipulating clamping bolt 706 as described above. Clamping bolt 706 can be tightened until anchor surface 3704 is in full contact with the bottom surface of the worktable surface to create clamping between anchor surface 3704 and flange 708.

[0110] Now go to Figure 42 Another example of a top-mounted device that can be used to mount a fixing device onto a structure is shown separately and is generally indicated by reference numeral 4200. The top-mounted device 4200 can be used to mount any of the faucets 100, 200, 300, and 500 onto work surfaces 102, 202, 302, and 502. Figures 43 to 47 Additional views of the top-mounted device 4200 are provided. This example of the top-mounted device 4200 may include elements and components similar to those of top-mounted devices 700, 1600, 3100, and / or 3700. The same reference numerals are used to indicate the same parts. For brevity, the differences between the top-mounted device 4200 and the top-mounted devices 700, 1600, 3100, and 3700 can be described. The similarities between the top-mounted device 4200 and the top-mounted devices 700, 1600, 3100, and 3700 can be seen from... Figures 7 to 47 As can be seen from this, elements and components in top-mounted devices 700, 1600, 3100, and 3700 that are not marked or explicitly described in top-mounted device 4200 are not necessarily excluded. Top-mounted device 4200 may include any elements or components of top-mounted devices 700, 1600, 3100, and / or 3700, and conversely, top-mounted devices 700, 1600, 3100, and / or 3700 may include any elements or components of top-mounted device 4200, unless otherwise expressly stated or the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0111] The top-mounted device 4200 includes a base 702 and an anchor movable relative to the base 702 between a clamped position and an unclamped position. In this example, the anchor may include a butterfly anchor 4202. The butterfly anchor 4202 is coupled to a sleeve 720. For example, the butterfly anchor 4202 may be coupled to the sleeve 720 via a pair of shafts 4204 extending outwardly from the sleeve 720. Retaining elements such as nuts or bolt heads may be included to hold the butterfly anchor 4202 on the shafts 4204. The butterfly anchor 4202 may move along or relative to the shaft 718 toward the base 702 together with the sleeve 720. As described above, the sleeve 720 and the butterfly anchor 4202 can be moved relative to the base 702 by a user manipulating a clamping bolt 706.

[0112] The butterfly anchor 4202 may include wings 4206, each of which contacts the bottom of the worktable surface when in a first orientation (here, open or horizontal orientation). Each wing 4206 may pivot or rotate about an axis 4204 between an open orientation and a second orientation (here, closed or vertical orientation). A wing 4206 in the closed orientation may be inserted through a hole in the worktable surface. Figure 42 and 43 The butterfly anchor 4202 is depicted from Figure 42 The opening orientation in Figure 43 The process of closing orientation shifting within. Figure 44 and Figure 45 The process was also depicted from different views, in which, Figure 44 The butterfly anchor 4202 in the open orientation is shown, and Figure 45 A butterfly anchor 4202 in a closed orientation is shown.

[0113] The butterfly anchor 4202 can be biased toward an open orientation by gravity and the weight of the wings 4206. In some embodiments, the butterfly anchor 4202 can be biased toward an open orientation via a spring mechanism that forces the wings 4206 outward and open. The butterfly anchor 4202 can move toward a closed orientation when inserted through a hole in the worktable surface. For example, the butterfly anchor 4202 can be closed by an inward force applied to the wings 4206 via the edge of the hole and / or by a user pressing the wings 4206 inward. In examples where the butterfly anchor 4202 includes a spring mechanism, the spring can compress in response to an inward force applied to the wings 4206 to temporarily allow the butterfly anchor 4206 to close. When the inward force is released from the wings 4206, the spring mechanism can cause the butterfly anchor 4206 to return to an open orientation.

[0114] Reference Figure 45The wing 4206 can be moved to the closed orientation as described above to engage with a hole passing through the worktable surface. (See reference...) Figure 44 and Figure 47 The wing 4206 in the open orientation can extend outward from the sleeve 720 substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A1. Each wing 4206 can project outward beyond the base 702 in the open orientation to engage the bottom surface of the worktable. The wing 4206 can be arranged on radially opposite sides of the sleeve 720 such that the wing 4206 project in opposite directions when open. Alternatively, the wing 4206 can be arranged in a V-shape. For example, the wing 4206 can be arranged as described above. Figure 34 The V-shape described is similar to that of the horizontally oriented anchor arm 3102. The wing 4206 can be arranged such that the open-oriented wing 4206 can provide clearance at the open end of the base 702 for hoses, conduits, pipes or other connectors installed through the base 702 and the work surface.

[0115] Now go to Figure 48 Another example of a top-mounted device that can be used to mount a fixing device onto a structure is shown separately and is generally indicated by reference numeral 4800. The top-mounted device 4800 can be used to mount any of the faucets 100, 200, 300, and 500 onto work surfaces 102, 202, 302, and 502. Figures 49 to 55 Additional views of the top-mounted device 4800 are provided. This example of the top-mounted device 4800 may include elements and components similar to those of the top-mounted devices 700, 1600, 3100, 3700, and 4200 described above. The same reference numerals are used to indicate the same parts. For brevity, the differences between the top-mounted device 4800 and the top-mounted devices 700, 1600, 3100, 3700, and 4200 can be described. The similarities between the top-mounted device 4800 and the top-mounted devices 700, 1600, 3100, 3700, and 4200 can be seen from... Figures 7 to 55 As can be seen from the description, elements and components in top-mounted devices 700, 1600, 3100, 3700, and 4200 that are not marked or explicitly described in top-mounted device 4800 are not necessarily excluded. Top-mounted device 4800 may include any elements or components of top-mounted devices 700, 1600, 3100, 3700, and / or 4200, and conversely, top-mounted devices 700, 1600, 3100, 3700, and / or 4200 may include any elements or components of top-mounted device 4800, unless otherwise expressly stated or indicated by the context.

[0116] The top-mounted mounting device 4800 includes a base 702 and an anchor movable relative to the base 702 between a clamped position and an unclamped position. In this example, the anchor may include one or more anchor rods 4802. For example, the anchor may include two anchor rods 4802. Each anchor rod 4802 includes an anchoring surface 4804 and a mounting bracket 4806 rotatably connected to a sleeve 720. One of the mounting brackets 4806 of each anchor rod 4802 may include an engagement edge 4808 projecting outward relative to the anchoring surface 4804. The other mounting bracket 4806 of each anchor rod 4802 may include a gap feature 4810, such as a chamfer.

[0117] The sleeve 720 may include a window or opening 4812 defined within the sleeve 720. The mounting bracket 4806 may be arranged such that the mating edge 4808 is at least partially located within the window 4812. The mating edge 4808 of each anchor rod 4802 may also face the gap feature 4810 of the other anchor rod 4802.

[0118] Reference Figure 49 Each anchor rod 4802's mounting bracket 4806 can be rotatably connected to the sleeve 720 via a corresponding mounting lug 4814. The mounting lug 4814 can be positioned near the window 4812. Each mounting lug 4814 may include a through hole 4816 that aligns with an opening 4818 in the corresponding anchor rod 4802's bracket 4806. A pin 4820 can be inserted through the aligned opening 4818 and through hole 4816 to rotatably connect the anchor rod 4802 to the corresponding mounting lug 4814. Retaining elements such as nuts or bolt heads may be included to hold the bracket 4806 on the corresponding mounting lug 4814.

[0119] Anchor rod 4802 is rotatable or pivotable relative to sleeve 720 between a first orientation (here, horizontal) and a second orientation (here, vertical). Anchor rod 4802 can move between the horizontal and vertical orientations to correspondingly clamp and insert through holes in the worktable surface, operating similarly to the operation of anchor arms 1602, 3102 between horizontal and vertical orientations. Rotation or pivoting of anchor rod 4802 relative to sleeve 720 can be facilitated via a corresponding mounting bracket 4806 and via a pin 4820 rotatably connecting the mounting bracket 4806 to sleeve 720.

[0120] Figure 50 and Figure 51 The anchor rod 4802 is depicted from Figure 50 Vertical orientation in Figure 51 The process of horizontal orientation movement within. Figure 52 and Figure 53 The process was also depicted from different views, in which, Figure 52 Anchor rod 4802 in a vertical orientation is shown, and Figure 53 An anchor rod 4802 in a horizontal orientation is shown. Anchor rod 4802 can be biased towards a vertical orientation via gravity and its own weight. As described below, anchor rod 4802 can move towards a horizontal orientation when sleeve 720 moves upward along or relative to axis 718. Clearance feature 4810 allows anchor rod 4802 to rotate without the supports 4806 of anchor rod 4802 interfering with or otherwise hindering rotation. For example, clearance feature 4810 can provide clearance for mating edges 4808 to allow rotation without interfering with the supports 4806 of another anchor rod 4802.

[0121] Reference Figure 52 An anchor rod 4802 in a closed orientation allows the sleeve 720 and rod 4802 to fit through a hole in the worktable. (See reference...) Figure 53 The anchor rod 4802 in the open orientation can extend outward from the sleeve 720 substantially perpendicular to it. Each anchor rod 4802 can project outward beyond the base 702 in the open orientation to engage the bottom surface of the worktable. The anchor rods 4802 can be arranged on radially opposite sides of the sleeve 720 such that they project in opposite directions when open. Alternatively, the anchor rods 4802 can be arranged in a V-shape. For example, the anchor rods 4802 can be arranged in a manner consistent with the above reference. Figure 46 The V-shape of the horizontally oriented anchor arm 3102 is similar to that described. The anchor rod 4802 can be arranged such that the open-oriented rod 4802 can provide clearance at the open end of the base 702 for hoses, conduits, pipes or other connectors installed through the base 702 and the work surface.

[0122] Reference Figure 54When the support 4806 of the anchor rod 4802 is located below the bottom 4822 of the shaft 718, the anchor rod 4802 can be biased toward a vertical orientation. The bottom 4822 of the shaft 718 can define a plane B1. The bottom 4822 of the shaft 718 can engage the mounting support 4806 to move the anchor rod 4802 to a horizontal orientation. Specifically, when the mounting support 4806 of the anchor rod 4802 in a vertical orientation moves above the plane B1, the bottom 4822 of the shaft can engage the engagement edge 4808. The engagement edge 4808 can be positioned in the window 4812 as described above to engage the bottom 4822 of the shaft. The bottom 4822 of the shaft can engage the engagement edge 4808 to apply a downward force, thereby driving the anchor rod 4802 to rotate to a horizontal orientation. The curved surface 4828 can transition from the engagement edge 4808 to convert the continuous engagement with the bottom 4822 of the shaft into the rotation of the anchor rod 4802.

[0123] Reference Figure 55 The anchor rod 4802 can move upward toward the base 702 along or relative to the shaft 718, together with the sleeve 720. The sleeve 720 and anchor rod 4802 can be moved relative to the base 702 by the user manipulating the clamping bolt 706 as described above. When the clamping bolt 706 is tightened, the sleeve 720 and anchor rod 4802 can move upward toward the base 702 along or relative to the shaft 718 and relative to the longitudinal axis A1, as indicated by arrow 4824. The continuous upward movement 4824 of the anchor rod 4802 above plane B1 translates into a horizontally oriented rotational movement of the anchor rod 4802, as indicated by arrow 4826. The rotational movement 4826 can be achieved via engagement between the bottom 4822 of the shaft and the curved surface 4828 transitioning from the engagement edge 4808. When the anchor rod 4802 is in a horizontal orientation and / or moving towards a horizontal orientation, the engagement edge 4808 and / or the mounting bracket 4806 can support the shaft 718 to prevent the anchor rod 4802 from rotating prematurely back to a vertical orientation. When the clamping bolt 706 is loosened and the sleeve 720 and the anchor rod 4802 move downward so that the mounting bracket 4806 is below plane B1, the anchor rod 4802 can move back to a vertical orientation.

[0124] Now go to Figure 56Another example of a top-mounted device that can be used to mount a fixing device onto a structure is shown separately and is generally indicated by reference numeral 5600. The top-mounted device 5600 can be used to mount any of the faucets 100, 200, 300, and 500 onto workbenches 102, 202, 302, and 502. The top-mounted device 5600 can be similar to the top-mounted devices 4200 and 4800 described above. In this example, the anchoring member 5602 of the top-mounted device 5600 can be similar to the anchoring wing 4206 or anchor rod 4802 described above. In this example, the anchoring member 5602 is arranged in a V-shape in a horizontal orientation. The V-shape can provide clearance at the open end of the base 702 for hoses, conduits, pipes, or other connectors installed through the base 702 and the workbench.

[0125] Now go to Figure 57 Another example of a top-mounted device that can be used to mount a fixing device onto a structure is shown separately and is generally indicated by reference numeral 5700. The top-mounted device 5700 can be used to mount any of faucets 100, 200, 300, and 500 onto work surfaces 102, 202, 302, and 502. This example of the top-mounted device 5700 may include elements and components similar to those described above for top-mounted devices 700, 1600, 3100, 3700, 4200, 4800, and 5600. The top-mounted device 5700 may include any element or component of the top-mounted devices 700, 1600, 3100, 3700, 4200, 4800 and / or 5600, and conversely, the top-mounted devices 700, 1600, 3100, 3700, 4200, 4800 and / or 5600 may include any element or component of the top-mounted device 5700, unless otherwise expressly stated or the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0126] The top-mounted device 5700 includes a base 5702 and an anchor 5704 movable relative to the base 5702 between a clamping position and an unclamped position. The anchor 5704 may include an anchoring collar or a horseshoe-shaped member. Additionally or alternatively, the anchor 5704 may include any of the anchors 704, 1602, 3102, 3702, 4202, 4802, and / or 5602 described above. The anchor 5704 can be moved from a convenient position relative to the structure, such as above a worktable surface, by the user manipulating the clamping bolt 5706. In the clamping position, the anchor 5704 contacts a second surface of the worktable surface (here, the bottom surface). The anchor 5704 in the clamping position engages with the bottom 5708 of the cylindrical body 5710 of the base 5702 to create clamping on the worktable surface. The bottom 5708 contacts the first surface of the work surface (in this case, the top surface) and restricts or prevents the base 5702 from fully inserting through the work surface. Additionally or alternatively, the bottom 5708 contacts the top surface of a trim panel or another mounting structure positioned on the work surface.

[0127] Alignment feature 5711 may be defined at or near the bottom 5708 of cylindrical body 5710. Alignment feature 5711 may mate with a complementary alignment feature on a worktable, panel, or another mounting structure positioned on the worktable. Alignment feature 5711 may include slots, recesses, grooves, keyways, etc., to receive a complementary alignment feature projecting upward from the worktable, panel, or other mounting structure. Additionally or alternatively, alignment feature may project downward from the bottom 5708 and may be received by a complementary alignment feature such as a slot, groove, channel, or keyway embedded in the top surface of the worktable, panel, or other mounting structure.

[0128] The base 5702 may be open at both ends to allow a user to pass conduits, hoses, or other connectors through the base 5702 and structures such as a work surface or trim. The base 5702 may include a cylindrical body 5710 positioned above the work surface when the top-mounted device 5700 is installed, and in some cases positioned on the work surface. The cylindrical body 5710 defines a bottom 5708 that contacts the top surface of the work surface, trim, or another mounting structure.

[0129] The body 5710 can be sized and shaped for insertion into the bottom of a fastening device such as a faucet spout or faucet handle. The fastening device can be secured to the body 5710 using a retainer 5714 such as a set screw, key, or other fastener. The body 5710 can define a circumferential groove 5712 for attaching the fastening device to the body via the retainer. The circumferential groove 5712 can extend to an appropriate arc length to allow the fastening device to be secured to the body 5710 at various angular positions. For example, the circumferential groove 5712 can extend around the body 5710 by at least 90°, at least 180°, at least 270°, nearly 360°, or a full 360°. The circumferential groove 5712 allows the user to attach the fastening device to the body 5710 and orient the fastening device as needed, regardless of the relative angular orientation between the body and the fastening device. This greatly simplifies installation by allowing the user to position the top-mounted device 5700 to a specific angular orientation aligned with the desired orientation of the fastening device.

[0130] The base 5702 also includes a guide 5716 that aligns the base with a structure, such as a workbench, for mounting the device. The guide 5716 can be inserted into a hole in the structure, such as the workbench, to position the base 5702 on the workbench. Additionally or alternatively, the guide 5716 can be inserted into a hole in a trim panel or another mounting structure positioned on or relative to the structure. The guide 5716 can be long enough to extend within holes in the trim panel or another mounting structure, as well as holes in the structure, such as the workbench. The guide 5716 can engage with holes to limit or prevent lateral movement of the top-mounted device 5700 relative to the structure, such as the workbench.

[0131] Similar to the top-mounted device described above, the top-mounted device 5700 may include an anti-rotation shaft 5718 and an anti-rotation sleeve 5720. The anti-rotation shaft 5718 may have an anti-rotation shape complementary to that of the anti-rotation sleeve 5720. The complementary anti-rotation shape may include, for example, polygons such as hexagons, oblongs, ellipses, or other anti-rotation shapes such as any shape other than a circle. The anti-rotation shaft 5718 may engage with the anti-rotation sleeve 5720 to restrict relative rotation between the shaft and the sleeve. The anti-rotation shaft 5718 may be connected to a base 5702 and may extend downward from a guide 5716. The anti-rotation sleeve 5720 may be connected to an anchor 5704. The characteristics of the shaft 718 and sleeve 720 described above also apply to the shaft 5718 and sleeve 5720, unless otherwise explicitly stated or required by the context.

[0132] In this example, shaft 5718 receives sleeve 5720 in its channel 5728. Sleeve 5720 may have an anti-rotation shape complementary to the anti-rotation shape of channel 5728. Sleeve 5720 may engage within channel 5728 to limit relative rotation between shaft and sleeve. The description of shaft 5718 and sleeve 5720 received by shaft also applies to other embodiments described herein, unless otherwise explicitly stated or required by context. For example, anchors 704, 1602, 3102, 3702, 4202, 4802 and / or 5602 described herein can be used with and connected to a sleeve received by a shaft extending from its base.

[0133] Anchor 5704 can be connected to sleeve 5720 via an outwardly extending connector 5724, such as a connector arm or connector rod. A slot 5726 may be defined in shaft 5718 to receive the connector 5724 between anchor 5704 and sleeve 5720. Thus, anchor 5704 is able to move freely with sleeve 5720 relative to shaft 5718 when sleeve 5720 is received in shaft 5718. Shaft 5718 may include any number of slots to receive connectors for connecting anchors to sleeve 5720. For example, an anchor 5704 can be connected to sleeve 5720 via a single connector 5724, and shaft 5718 may include a slot 5726 for the connector. Alternatively, the top-mounted device may include multiple, such as two or more anchors, each connected to the sleeve via a corresponding connector, and shaft may include a slot for each connector.

[0134] The slot 5726 can extend a certain length of the shaft 5718 to allow movement of the anchor 5704 and sleeve 5720 relative to the shaft. The slot 5726 can extend the entire length or nearly the entire length of the shaft 5718. The slot 5726 can extend along the shaft 5718 by any suitable length to allow movement of the anchor 5704 and sleeve 5720 relative to the shaft. The slot 5726 can also be partially defined on the guide 5716. The slot 5726 can extend the entire length or nearly the entire length of the guide 5716. The slot 5726, defined in the shaft 5718 and the guide 5716, allows the anchor 5704 to move to a longitudinally close fit with the cylindrical body 5710 of the base 5702. In this way, the top-mounted device can clamp structures such as worktables with varying thicknesses (including smaller thicknesses).

[0135] Reference Figure 58The anti-rotation sleeve 5720 can define a cavity 5722 aligned with the channel 5728 of the shaft 5718 along the longitudinal axis A3 when the shaft and sleeve are engaged. The channel 5728 of the shaft 5718 and the sleeve 5720 can have complementary anti-rotation shapes, such as polygons like hexagons, oblongs, ellipses, or other anti-rotation shapes such as any shape other than a circle. The anti-rotation shape can restrict or prevent the sleeve 5720 from rotating within the channel 5728. The sleeve 5720 can also be fitted within the channel 5728 by near-interference fit. Preferably, a clearance is left between the sleeve 5720 and the shaft 5718 within the channel 5728, allowing the sleeve and anchor 5704 to move relative to the shaft 5718 in the direction of the longitudinal axis A3.

[0136] The clamping bolt 5706 may have a tail 5730, which is received by a channel 5728 of the shaft 5718 and a cavity 5722 of the sleeve 5720 and extends along the longitudinal axis A3 through the channel 5728 of the shaft 5718 and the cavity 5722 of the sleeve 5720. Each of the channel 5728 and the cavity 5722 may be sized to accommodate the tail 5730 of the clamping bolt 5706 and allow rotation of the clamping bolt 5706. The head 5732 of the clamping bolt 5706 may be seated on top of the shaft 5718. The head 5732 may be sized and shaped such that the head 5732 stops at the top of the shaft 5718 and is restricted or prevented from insertion into the central channel 5728. The head 5732 can also be accessed through the open tip portion of the base 5702 and / or a cut in the body of the base, allowing the user to manipulate the clamping bolt 5706 using a screwdriver, wrench, or other suitable tool. For example, the user can manipulate the bolt 5706 via the head 5732 using a screwdriver with a hexagonal insert.

[0137] The shaft 5718 can extend downward from the base 5702 to a suitable length, allowing it to extend through and below the worktable when the base 5702 is positioned above it. The top of the shaft 5718 can be close to the bottom 5708 of the cylindrical body 5710 of the base 5702. The internal dimensions of the channel 5728 can be sized to accommodate the tail 5730 of the clamping bolt 5706 and the anti-rotation sleeve 5720. The internal dimensions of the shaft 5718 and the external dimensions of the sleeve 5720 can also be sized to maintain the anti-rotation engagement of the sleeve 5720 within the channel 5728. The internal dimensions of the shaft 5718 and the external dimensions of the sleeve 5720 can also be sized to allow the sleeve and anchor 5704 to move relative to the shaft along the longitudinal axis A3.

[0138] The shaft 5718 may define a step or stop 5734 near its top, which prevents the sleeve 5720 and anchor 5704 from moving further upward relative to the shaft. The bottom of the stop 5734 may be adjacent to, flush with, or nearly flush with the bottom 5708 of the cylindrical body 5710. Thus, when the sleeve 5720 and anchor 5704 reach the stop 5734, there may be a small or infinitesimally small longitudinal gap between the bottom 5708 and the anchor 5704, or there may be essentially no longitudinal gap. This allows the anchor 5704 and the bottom 5708 to clamp a structure of relatively small thickness.

[0139] The cavity 5722 of the sleeve 5720 may include a thread that enables a threaded connection between the tail 5730 and the sleeve. The tail 5730 may be threaded to complement the thread within the cavity 5722. The tail 5730 may have an appropriate length to extend through the channel 5728 and the cavity 5722. The tail 5730 may be long enough to extend through the channel 5728 and the cavity 5722 when the sleeve 5720 is not received in the shaft 5718. Alternatively, the sleeve 5720 may be at least partially received in the shaft 5718 before the tail 5730 can reach the threaded cavity 5722.

[0140] Shaft 5718 can be positioned inside cylindrical body 5710 such that longitudinal axis A3 extends through open base 5702. Shaft 5718 can extend downward from guide 5716 and / or bottom 5708 of body 5710, but not radially outward beyond guide 5716, so as not to interfere with engagement of base 5702 with worktable or mounting structure. Slot 5726 defined in shaft 5718 can be radially outward such that connector 5724 and anchor 5704 can project outward beyond cylindrical body for clamping bottom surface of worktable.

[0141] For assembling the top-mounted device 5700, the sleeve 5720 can be positioned relative to the shaft 5718, with the cavity 5722 aligned with the channel 5728 along axis A3. The sleeve 5720 can also be positioned such that the connector 5724 extends through a slot 5726 in the shaft 5718, causing the anchor 5704 to deviate from the base 5702 relative to the longitudinal axis A3. The clamping bolt 5706 can be inserted into the cavity 5722 and the channel 5728 in any order, and the sleeve 5720 can be received by the shaft 5718. The user can rotate the tail 5730 of the clamping bolt 5706 within the cavity 5722 and the channel 5728 by manipulating the head 5732. The clamping bolt 5706 can be tightened via the threaded engagement of the tail 5730 with the threaded cavity 5722. When the clamping bolt 5706 is tightened, the engagement between the threaded cavity 5722 and the threaded tail 5730 may cause the sleeve 5720 and anchor 5704 to move upward relative to the shaft 5718 and longitudinal axis A3 toward the base 5702. The threaded engagement of the tail 5730 within the cavity 5722 can convert the rotation of the clamping bolt 5706 into axial or vertical movement of the sleeve 5720 relative to the shaft 5718 via the anti-rotation engagement of the sleeve 5720 within the channel 5728. This eliminates the need for any additional tools or other components to rotatably secure the sleeve 5720 and anchor 5704 relative to the shaft 5718 and / or base 5702, and this simplifies the assembly and clamping process by using the top-mounted device 5700.

[0142] Reference Figure 59 and Figure 60 Anchor 5704 may include an anchoring horseshoe-shaped member that extends radially outward beyond base 5702. Anchor 5704 defines an anchoring surface 5738, which may face the bottom of the worktable when the top mounting device 5700 is installed. Anchoring surface 5738 may also contact the bottom of the worktable when the anchoring collar 5704 moves to the clamping position. Anchor 5704 is suitably shaped to fit through a hole in the worktable when the top mounting device 5700 is installed. Anchoring surface 5738 may be laterally or radially offset relative to body 5710 of base 5702. When base 5702 is positioned above the hole in the worktable, the offset between anchoring surface 5738 and body 5710 may position the anchoring surface below the bottom surface of the worktable, such that the anchoring surface is positioned to contact the bottom surface.

[0143] As described above, the horseshoe-shaped anchor is one example of an anchor that can be used with the top-mounted device 5700. Other anchors, including those described elsewhere in this document, can also be used with the top-mounted device 5700.

[0144] Now refer to Figure 61 Another example of a top-mounted device that can be used to mount a fixing device on a structure is shown separately and generally indicated by 6100. The top-mounted device 6100 can be used to mount any one of faucets 100, 200, 300, and 500 on work surfaces 102, 202, 302, and 502. This top-mounted device 6100 can be similar to the aforementioned top-mounted device 5700, with the same reference numerals used to indicate the same components. Elements and components of the top-mounted device 5700 that are not labeled or explicitly described are not necessarily excluded, and the top-mounted device 6100 can include any element or component of the top-mounted device 5700, and vice versa, unless otherwise explicitly stated or indicated by the context. In this example, a circumferential groove 5712 is defined in the middle portion of the cylindrical body 5710 of the base 5702. Furthermore, in this example, alignment feature 5711 is defined in flange 6102, which projects outward from or near the bottom 5708 of cylindrical body 5710. Guide 5716 may extend downward from flange 6102.

[0145] Top-mounting devices 700, 1600, 3100, 3700, 4200, 4800, 5600, 5700, and 6100 include exemplary anchors movable relative to bases 702 and 5702 via manipulation of clamping bolts 706 and 5706. Rotation of clamping bolts 706 and 5706 is converted into upward movement of the anchor via anti-rotation engagement between shafts 718 and 5718 and sleeves 720 and 5720. Anchors that can be used with top-mounting devices according to this disclosure are not particularly limited. Anchors may include fixed anchors such as anchor collars 704 and / or horseshoe anchors 5704, movable anchors such as anchor arms 1602 and 3102, butterfly anchors 4202, anchor rods 4802 and / or anchor members 5602, and flexible anchors such as anchor wings 3702. Other movable anchors, such as spring-loaded or actuated anchors, can also be used. Movable anchors can be operated by a user, a mechanical device (such as a cam mechanism or spring-loaded mechanism), and / or a controller.

[0146] Features described for any one or more embodiments of the top-mounted device may be combined with or incorporated into features of any other embodiment, unless otherwise expressly stated or indicated by the context. Furthermore, for any embodiment of the top-mounted device described herein, the features of that embodiment are not limited to a particular combination, and may include more, fewer, or other features (including features of any other embodiment described herein) without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0147] The overhead mounting device disclosed herein enables a user to clamp or mount a fastener onto a surface of a structure from an easily accessible area adjacent to the structure. The overhead mounting device can reduce or eliminate the need for a user to physically access areas that are difficult or inconvenient to access and adjacent to the structure, or otherwise make the installation process more difficult, time-consuming, and / or dangerous. In the described example, the overhead mounting device is used with a work surface for mounting faucets or other countertop fasteners. The overhead mounting device can be used with structures other than work surfaces, which may have a horizontal orientation similar to the aforementioned work surface or may have a vertical or other orientation. The overhead mounting device can be additionally or alternatively used to clamp or mount a fastener onto a floor, wall, ceiling, or other desired structure.

[0148] Unless otherwise stated, the phrase "consisting essentially of..." does not exclude the presence of other steps, elements, or materials, whether or not such phrases are specifically mentioned in this specification, provided that such steps, elements, or materials do not affect the essential and novel features of this disclosure. Additionally, these phrases do not exclude impurities and variations commonly associated with the elements and materials used.

[0149] When describing elements of various embodiments of this disclosure, the articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to indicate the presence of one or more elements. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that additional elements may be present in addition to those listed. Furthermore, references to “an embodiment” or “an embodiment” in this disclosure are not intended to be construed as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also include the referenced features.

[0150] All references cited herein are incorporated herein by reference, including any priority documents and / or test procedures, provided they do not contradict this document. As will be apparent from the foregoing general description and detailed description, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, although the form of this disclosure has been shown and described. Therefore, this disclosure is not limited thereto. Similarly, for purposes of U.S. law, the term “comprising” is considered synonymous with the term “including.” Likewise, whenever the transitional phrase “comprising” precedes a composition, element, or group of elements, it should be understood that this disclosure also contemplates the use of the transitional phrases “consistently constitutes,” “comprises,” “selected from the group of,” or “is” preceding the description of that composition, element, or plurality of elements, and vice versa.

[0151] The specific embodiments described herein have been illustrated by way of example, and it should be understood that these embodiments may have various modifications and alternatives. It should be further understood that the claims are not intended to limit to the specific forms disclosed, but rather to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0152] The techniques proposed and claimed herein are referenced and applied to actual objects and specific examples of practical nature, which significantly improve the field of technology, and are therefore not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Furthermore, if any claim at the end of this specification contains a technical feature defined as “means for performing (function)…” or “steps for performing (function)…”, such feature shall be interpreted in accordance with the description and accompanying drawings. For claim features defined in other ways, their interpretation shall not be limited by the foregoing definition.

[0153] Although this disclosure has been described in conjunction with various embodiments and examples, those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure will understand that other embodiments can be devised without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A mounting device for mounting a fixing device on a structure having a first surface and a second surface, the mounting device comprising: A base that can be connected to the fixing device and positioned above the first surface; An anti-rotation shaft, the anti-rotation shaft extending from the base and including a central channel accessible via the base; An anti-rotation sleeve, which engages with the anti-rotation shaft and defines a cavity aligned with the central channel of the anti-rotation shaft; as well as An anchor connected to the anti-rotation sleeve, the anchor having an anchoring surface configured to contact the second surface when the anchor is in a clamping position and to clamp the structure between the anchor and the base.

2. The installation device according to claim 1, wherein, The anti-rotation sleeve engages with a fastener that extends within the central channel of the cavity and the anti-rotation shaft, and the engagement between the fastener and the anti-rotation sleeve allows the anti-rotation sleeve to move relative to the anti-rotation shaft.

3. The installation device according to claim 2, wherein, The anti-rotation sleeve and the anti-rotation shaft have complementary anti-rotation shapes that restrict relative rotation between the anti-rotation sleeve and the anti-rotation shaft during engagement of the fastener with the anti-rotation sleeve.

4. The installation device according to claim 2, wherein, The fastener includes a bolt having a threaded tail extending within the cavity and the central channel, and the threaded tail engaging with the thread within the cavity of the anti-rotation sleeve.

5. The installation device according to claim 4, wherein, The bolt includes a head that is accessible and operable by a user to rotatably engage the threaded tail within the cavity of the anti-rotation sleeve.

6. The installation device according to claim 4, wherein, The anti-rotation sleeve receives the anti-rotation shaft at a first sleeve end, and the anti-rotation sleeve includes the thread located at a second sleeve end opposite to the first sleeve end.

7. The installation device according to claim 1, wherein, The anti-rotation sleeve and the anchor are movable relative to the anti-rotation shaft and the base.

8. The installation device according to claim 7, wherein, The anchor is movable relative to the anti-rotation sleeve.

9. The installation device according to claim 8, wherein, The anchor is movable relative to the anti-rotation sleeve between a first orientation and a second orientation, the first orientation allowing the anchor to be inserted through a hole in the structure, and the second orientation allowing the anchoring surface of the anchor to contact the second surface of the structure.

10. The mounting device according to claim 9 further includes a cam mechanism, wherein, The cam mechanism causes the anchor to move relative to the anti-rotation sleeve between the first orientation and the second orientation.

11. The mounting device according to claim 7, wherein, The anchor is substantially fixed relative to the sleeve.

12. The mounting device according to claim 11, wherein, The anchoring surface is offset from the flange of the base.

13. The mounting device according to claim 12, wherein, The anchoring surface is substantially aligned with the flange of the base, and the anchor includes a flexible material that allows the anchor to bend inward when inserted through a hole in the structure.

14. The mounting device according to claim 1, wherein, The anchor includes a butterfly anchor that is movable between an open orientation and a closed orientation.

15. The mounting device according to claim 14, wherein, The butterfly anchor is biased toward the opening orientation.

16. The installation device according to claim 1, wherein, The anti-rotation sleeve receives the anti-rotation shaft.

17. The mounting device according to claim 1, wherein, The anti-rotation shaft receives the anti-rotation sleeve.

18. The mounting device according to claim 1, wherein, The base includes a circumferential groove for connecting the fixing device to the base at different angular positions of the fixing device.

19. The mounting device according to claim 18, wherein, The base includes a cylindrical body having a bottom configured to engage with the structure, the cylindrical body defining the circumferential groove and a plurality of alignment features, the plurality of alignment features being configured to cooperate with complementary alignment features on the structure to align the mounting device.

20. The mounting device according to claim 19, wherein, The base includes a flange adjacent to the bottom of the cylindrical body, and the plurality of alignment features are defined in the flange.

Images