Bracket System and Method

Abstract

An embodiment includes a bracket system for coupling to a wall having an outer layer supported by a support beam. The bracket system includes an anchor having a flange, a stud portion extending rearwardly, and a block portion extending forwardly. The embodiment also includes a dual anchor bracket system. The stud portion extends through the outer layer and engages a support beam or a support arm assembly. The flange engages the front surface of the outer layer. The bracket includes a socket that slidably engages the block portion. When the block portion is engaged with the socket, the bolt holes of the block portion align with the bolt holes of the bracket. A bolt extends transversely through the bolt holes to secure the bracket to the anchor. The bracket can include a ring or can engage a rod. The rod can releasably engage the bracket using a magnetic element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a bracket system and method.

Background Art

[0002] Briefly summarized, embodiments of the present invention relate to a bracket system for coupling to a wall, the wall having an outer layer supported by a support beam. Conventional bracket systems are coupled to the outer surface of the outer layer and are prone to problems when a load is applied to the bracket. Typical problems include twisting or breakage of bracket components and compression of the outer surface of the wall. For example, when a conventional bracket system is coupled to the outer surface of a drywall, the fasteners may pull out of the drywall when a load is applied to the bracket system. Additionally, the drywall may be crushed or dented when a portion of the bracket is pushed into the outer layer of the drywall. The embodiments disclosed herein are aimed at addressing the above.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] The bracket system includes an anchor having a flange, a stud portion extending rearward, and a block portion extending forward. The stud portion extends through the outer layer of the wall and engages directly with the support beam. The flange can engage the front surface of the outer layer of the wall to further stabilize the anchor. Anchor screws extend through anchor screw holes to fix the anchor to the support beam. The bracket includes a socket configured to slidably engage the block portion. When the block portion is engaged with the socket, the bolt holes of the block portion can be aligned with the bolt holes of the bracket. Next, bolts extend transversely through the bolt holes to fix the bracket to the anchor. Embodiments also include a support arm that engages the anchor and the rear surface of the outer layer when the support beam is absent. Embodiments also include a dual anchor bracket system.

[0004] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a bracket system for coupling to a wall having an outer layer and a support beam, the bracket system including an anchor having a flange that extends along a forehead surface parallel to the surface of the wall and defines a front face and a rear face, a stud portion extending from the rear face of the flange, the stud portion extending through the outer layer and defining a stud engagement surface configured to engage the support beam, and a block portion extending from the front face of the flange, and a bracket including a base configured to slidably engage the block portion and defining a socket fixed to the block portion.

[0005] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a bracket system, the bracket system further including an anchor screw hole extending longitudinally between the front face of the block portion and the stud engagement surface of the stud portion, the anchor screw hole including a countersunk hole portion that communicates with the front face of the anchor.

[0006] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a bracket system, the bracket system further including a bolt hole extending transversely through a portion of the bracket and the block portion, the bolt hole extending between a plane defined by the countersunk hole portion and a plane defined by the stud engagement surface.

[0007] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a bracket system, the bracket further including a strut extending along a longitudinal axis, the strut including a retaining structure disposed at a front end portion of the strut, the retaining structure defining a recess extending along a transverse axis.

[0008] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a bracket system, the recess being configured to receive a portion of a towel rod therein. In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a bracket system, and the rear surface of the base includes a flange recess that defines a diameter and thickness that are equal to or slightly larger than the diameter and thickness of the flange, respectively, and the flange recess is configured to slidably engage the flange when the bracket is engaged with the anchor.

[0009] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a bracket system, and the block portion defines a rectangular cross-sectional shape along the front surface, and the stud portion defines a circular cross-sectional shape along the front surface.

[0010] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a bracket system, and the bracket system further includes one or both of a spike structure and a rim, the spike structure extends rearward from the center point of the stud engagement surface, the rim extends rearward from around the stud engagement surface, and each of the spike structure and the rim is configured to dent the front surface of the wall.

[0011] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a bracket system, and the bracket system further includes a jig system including one or more bases having a body that defines a block portion opening and a channel, the block portion opening extends longitudinally and is configured to slidably engage the block portion of the anchor, and the channel extends along a transverse axis.

[0012] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a bracket system, and the bracket system further includes a rod that defines an outer diameter that is equal to or slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the channel, and the rod is configured to slidably engage the channel.

[0013] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a bracket system, and one of the one or more bases further includes a longitudinally extending support screw slot configured to align with a support screw opening extending through a flange when a block portion of the bracket engages a block portion opening of the base.

[0014] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method of attaching a bracket system to a wall having an outer layer supported by a support beam, the method including extending a stud portion of an anchor through the outer layer to contact the support beam, extending an anchor screw having an anchor screw head through the anchor to secure the anchor to the support beam, slidably engaging a socket of the bracket with a block portion of the anchor, and threading a bolt through a portion of a base and the block portion of the anchor between a plane defined by the anchor screw head and a surface of the support beam.

[0015] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method, and the anchor further includes a flange extending along a forehead surface between the stud portion and the block portion, and a rear surface of the flange engages a front surface of the outer layer of the wall.

[0016] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method, the method further including aligning a transverse axis of the anchor with a vertical axis and securing the anchor in place using a support screw extending through the flange.

[0017] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method, the stud portion defining a circular cross-sectional shape and the block portion defining a rectangular cross-sectional shape. In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a method that further includes aligning a stud engagement surface of a stud portion with a front surface of an outer layer and a vertical centerline of a support beam, pressing an anchor against the outer layer, and indenting the outer layer using one or both of a spike and a rim extending from the stud engagement surface to indicate a location for forming a hole that extends such that the stud portion contacts the support beam.

[0018] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a method that further includes engaging a first base of a jig system with a block portion of a first anchor, engaging a block portion of a second anchor with a second base, slidably engaging the first base and the second base with a rod, sliding the second base along a lateral axis relative to the first base, and aligning the second anchor with a second support beam.

[0019] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein one or both of the first base and the second base include a block portion opening that extends between a front surface and a rear surface and that slidably engages the block portion.

[0020] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a method that further includes securing a first base to a first anchor by extending a support screw through a support screw slot and through a support screw opening disposed in a flange of the anchor.

[0021] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a method that further includes engaging a rod between a holding structure of a bracket and a holding structure of a second bracket to form a towel hanger.

[0022] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dual anchor bracket system for coupling to a wall having an outer layer and support beams, the dual anchor bracket system including a first anchor including a first flange, a first stud portion extending from a rear surface of the first flange, and a first block portion extending from a front surface of the first flange, a second anchor including a second flange, a second stud portion extending from a rear surface of the second flange, and a second block portion extending from a front surface of the second flange, a support flange extending between the first flange and the second flange, a first bracket configured to engage the first block portion, a second bracket configured to engage the second block portion, and a rod configured to engage one or both of the first bracket and the second bracket.

[0023] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dual anchor bracket system, and the first anchor, the second anchor, and the support flange are integrally formed as a single monolithic structure.

[0024] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dual anchor bracket system, the first bracket including a first receiving structure having a first recess extending along a first transverse axis and a lateral axis, and the second bracket including a second receiving structure having a second recess extending along a second transverse axis and the lateral axis.

[0025] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dual anchor bracket system, the first recess being configured to hold a first end of the rod and the second recess being configured to hold a second end of the rod.

[0026] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dual anchor bracket system, and one or more of the first recess, the second recess, the first end of the rod, and the second end of the rod include magnetic elements configured to releasably hold the first end of the rod within the first receiving structure or to releasably hold the second end of the rod within the second receiving structure.

[0027] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dual anchor bracket system, and one or more of the first recess, the second recess, the first end of the rod, and the second end of the rod include bolts configured to be threaded with one or more of these to adjust the lateral distance between the magnetic element and the rod.

[0028] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dual anchor bracket system, and one or more of the first recess, the second recess, the first end of the rod, and the second end of the rod include an interference fit, press fit, snap fit, protrusion, detent, claw, abutment, clip, or latch configured to releasably hold the rod.

[0029] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dual anchor bracket system, and one or both of the first anchor and the second anchor include a notch configured to communicate between the flange recess and the outer periphery and receive a portion of the support flange therein.

[0030] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method of attaching a bracket system to a wall, the method comprising preparing an assembly of an anchor and a support arm; extending a stud portion of the anchor through a hole in an outer layer of the wall, the anchor being slidably engaged at a first end of an anchor screw, and the support arm being threaded to a second end of the anchor screw; engaging a first end of the support arm with a rear surface of the outer layer at a first side of the hole, and engaging a second end of the support arm with the rear surface of the outer layer at a second side of the hole opposite the first side; rotating the anchor screw to compress a rearmost surface of the anchor against a surface of the support arm; and compressing a portion of the outer layer between a front surface of the support arm and a rear surface of a flange of the anchor.

[0031] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method further comprising slidably engaging a socket of a bracket with a block portion of an anchor; and threading a bolt through a portion of a base of the bracket and the block portion of the anchor.

[0032] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, the bracket comprising a post rotatably engaged with a base. In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, the anchor screw engaging the support arm proximate a first end of the support arm.

[0033] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, the flange extending along a front forehead between a stud portion and a block portion, the stud portion defining a circular cross-sectional shape, and the block portion defining a rectangular cross-sectional shape.

[0034] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, the width of the support arm being equal to or greater than a diameter of the stud portion and less than a diameter of the flange.

[0035] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a method, the front surface of the support arm includes a wall engagement surface and a recess surface, the recess surface extends parallel to the wall engagement surface and is configured to engage the rearmost surface of the anchor, and the wall engagement surface is disposed in front of the recess surface.

[0036] A more specific description of the present disclosure is made by referring to the specific embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be recognized that these drawings show only typical embodiments of the present invention and are not to be considered as limiting its scope. Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described and explained in more specific and detailed manner through the use of the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0037]

Figure 1

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Figure 3D

Figure 4A

Figure 4B

Figure 4C

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0038] Before some specific embodiments are disclosed in more detail, it should be understood that the specific embodiments disclosed herein do not limit the scope of the concepts provided herein. Also, it should be understood that the specific embodiments disclosed herein can be easily separated from a particular embodiment and optionally have features that can be combined with or substituted for the features of any of several other embodiments disclosed herein. The drawings are schematic and diagrammatic representations of exemplary embodiments of the present invention and are not limiting and are not necessarily drawn to an exact scale.

[0039] Regarding the terms used herein, it should also be understood that the terms are for explaining some specific embodiments and do not limit the scope of the concepts provided herein. Ordinal numbers (e.g., first, second, third, etc.) are generally used to distinguish or identify different features or steps within a group of multiple features or multiple steps and do not give an order or numerical limitation. For example, the "first", "second", and "third" features or steps do not necessarily appear in that order, and a particular embodiment including such features or steps is not necessarily limited to three features or steps. Expressions such as "left", "right", "up", "down", "front", "rear", etc. are used for convenience and are not intended to mean, for example, a specific fixed position, orientation, or direction. Instead, such expressions are used, for example, to reflect relative positions, orientations, or directions. The singular forms "a", "one", and "the" include plural references unless the context specifically dictates otherwise. Also, the phrases "including", "having", and "having" shall have the same meaning as the phrase "comprising" when used in this application including in the claims.

[0040] In the following description, the terms "or" and "and / or" as used herein shall be construed as inclusive or meaning any one or any combination. By way of example, "A, B or C" or "A, B and / or C" means "any of the following, namely, A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, A, B and C". An exception to this definition occurs only when the combination of elements, components, functions, steps, or acts are mutually exclusive in some way.

[0041] To assist in the description of the embodiments described herein, as shown in FIG. 1, the longitudinal axis extends between the front and rear sides of the bracket system. The lateral axis extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis between the left and right sides of the bracket system. The transverse axis extends perpendicular to both the longitudinal axis and the lateral axis between the upper and lower sides. The frontal plane is defined by the lateral axis and the transverse axis. The horizontal plane is defined by the lateral axis and the longitudinal axis. The longitudinal plane is defined by the longitudinal axis and the transverse axis.

[0042] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. FIG. 1 shows a bracket system ("system") 100 configured to be fixed to a wall and generally including an anchor 110 and a bracket 150. Optionally, the system 100 further includes a rod 190, a ring 390, or a similar structure coupled to the bracket 150, as described in more detail herein. As shown in FIG. 1, the system 100 is shown in an exploded perspective view from the rear side, and the rear side of the system 100 engages the wall 98. The outer layer 90 and the support beam 80 of the wall 98 are shown in a wireframe that has been cut away for ease of explanation.

[0043] In one embodiment, the anchor 110 includes a flange 112 extending on the forehead surface, a first portion extending rearward from the flange 112, i.e., the stud portion 120, and a second portion extending forward from the flange 112, i.e., the block portion 130. In one embodiment, the stud portion 120 is configured to extend through the outer layer 90 of the wall 98, such as a drywall layer, and directly engage with a stud or a similar support beam 80 disposed behind the outer layer 90. Next, the bracket 150 engages with the block portion 130 of the anchor 110 opposite to the stud portion 120 and is securely coupled to the block portion 130. Optionally, the bracket 150 further engages with a rod 190, a ring 390, or a similar structure as described in more detail herein.

[0044] Advantageously, the bracket system 100 can support, attach to, and / or suspend a towel rod, towel ring, handle, shelf support, picture hanger, TV mount, exercise equipment, pull-up bar, shower curtain rod, curtain, or similar structures for supporting, attaching, and / or suspending a structure and / or household item (such as a towel, etc.) from a wall. Further, since the bracket system 100 extends through the outer layer 90 and directly engages the support beam 80, the bracket system 100 can support increased weight and reduce the risk that the system 100 will be forced away from the wall 98 in the event additional weight is applied. For example, when a bracket is attached to the outer layer of drywall using conventional screws and rawl plugs, etc., the load-bearing capacity is limited by the strength of the drywall which is localized to that area of the drywall, e.g., about 23 kg (50 pounds). When the bracket is attached to the front face of the outer layer 90 of drywall and the rear support beam 80, a greater load-bearing capacity can be obtained. However, the load-bearing capacity is still limited because the bracket is supported on a relatively small surface area of the outer layer of drywall and there is a risk that such an outer layer will be compressed and crushed, resulting in a malfunction of the bracket system. Advantageously, embodiments of the bracket system 100 disclosed herein extend through the surface drywall layer 90 and directly engage the support beam 80 and can thus support a greater load-bearing capacity.

[0045] Figures 2A - 2D show various views of the anchor 110 of the system 100. Figure 2A shows a front perspective view of the anchor. Figure 2B shows a front view, and Figure 2C shows a rear view. Figure 2D shows a rear perspective view of the anchor 110. The anchor 110 includes a flange 112 that extends on the frontal plane and defines an outer perimeter 114. As shown, the outer perimeter 114 defines a generally circular shape, although it will be recognized that other regular or irregular closed curve shapes are also contemplated. In one embodiment, the flange 112 defines a first diameter (d1) of from 2.54 cm to 10.16 cm (1 inch to 4 inches). However, it will be recognized that larger or smaller diameters of the first diameter (d1) are also contemplated. In one embodiment, the first diameter (d1) is 5.84 cm (2.3 inches).

[0046] The anchor 110 further includes a stud portion 120 that extends rearwardly from the rear side of the flange 112 and a block portion 130 that extends forwardly from the front surface of the flange 112. In one embodiment, the stud portion 120 defines a generally circular outer perimeter 124, although it will be recognized that other regular or irregular closed curve surrounding shapes are also contemplated. In one embodiment, the outer perimeter 124 of the stud portion 120 defines a second diameter (d2) that is smaller than the first diameter (d1). In one embodiment, the second diameter (d2) is from 1.27 cm to 7.62 cm (0.5 inch to 3 inches). However, it will be recognized that larger or smaller diameters of the second diameter (d2) are also contemplated. In one embodiment, the second diameter (d2) is 3.81 cm (1.5 inches).

[0047] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2D, the stud portion 120 defines a first thickness (t1). As used herein, the first thickness (t1) is defined as the distance between the rearmost surface of the stud portion 120 and the rearmost surface of the flange 112. In one embodiment, the first thickness (t1) is from 0.64 cm to 2.54 cm (0.25 inch to 1 inch). However, it will be recognized that larger or smaller thicknesses are also contemplated. In one embodiment, the first thickness (t1) is 1.27 cm (0.5 inch). In one embodiment, the first thickness (t1) is approximately equal to the thickness of the outer layer 90 of the wall 98.

[0048] In one embodiment, the block portion 130 defines a generally rectangular outer perimeter 134, although it will be recognized that other regular or irregular closed curve surrounding shapes such as square, hexagonal, circular, oval, elliptical, etc. are also contemplated. In one embodiment, the outer perimeter 134 of the block portion 130 defines a first width (w1) and a first height (h1). In one embodiment, one or both of the first width (w1) and the first height (h1) is from 1.27 cm to 7.62 cm (0.5 inch to 3 inches). However, it will be recognized that larger or smaller widths and / or heights are also contemplated. In one embodiment, the first width (w1) is 3.76 cm (1.48 inches) and the first height (h1) is 2.87 cm (1.13 inches).

[0049] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2A, the block portion 130 defines a second thickness (t2). As used herein, the second thickness (t2) is defined as the distance between the foremost surface of the block portion 130 and the foremost surface of the flange 112. In one embodiment, the second thickness (t2) is from 0.64 cm to 2.54 (0.25 inch to 1 inch). However, it will be recognized that larger or smaller thicknesses are also contemplated. In one embodiment, the second thickness (t2) is 2.03 cm (0.8 inch).

[0050] In one embodiment, the anchor 110 includes one or more anchor screw holes 116 that extend along a longitudinal axis between the front and rear surfaces of the anchor 110, for example, between the front surface of the block portion 130 and the rear surface of the stud portion 120. As illustrated, the anchor 110 includes four anchor screw holes 116, although more or fewer anchor screw holes 116 are also contemplated. In one embodiment, the anchor 110 includes at least a first anchor screw hole 116A disposed on a first side of the central vertical axis 70 and at least a second anchor screw hole 116B disposed on a second side of the central vertical axis 70 opposite the first side. In one embodiment, the one or more anchor screw holes 116 include a countersink portion 138 configured to receive the screw head 62 of the anchor screw 60 therein at a front end portion of the anchor screw hole 116. An exemplary anchor screw can be an RSS 10 screw, although this is not intended to be limiting, and it will be recognized that other screws, or similar suitable fasteners, are also contemplated. The longitudinal depth of the countersink portion 138 is equal to or greater than the longitudinal height of the anchor screw head 62. Advantageously, the countersink portion 138 reduces the anchor screw 60 from abutting a portion of the bracket 150 when the bracket engages the anchor 110, as described in more detail herein.

[0051] In one embodiment, the block portion 130 further includes a bolt hole 132 that extends along a transverse axis between the lower side and the upper side of the block portion 130. The inner diameter of the bolt hole 132 is equal to or larger than the outer diameter of a bolt 64 that extends through the bolt hole 132. In one embodiment, the bolt hole 132 includes a diameter that is equal to or slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the bolt 64 and includes a threaded portion configured to engage with the threaded portion of the bolt 64. In one embodiment, the bolt hole 132 extends along an axis disposed between a front surface defined by the counterbore portion 138 of the anchor screw hole 116 and a front surface defined by the rearmost surface of the anchor 110. In one embodiment, the bolt hole 132 extends along an axis disposed between a front surface defined by the counterbore portion 138 of the anchor screw hole 116 and a front surface defined by the front surface of the flange 112.

[0052] It is important to note that a bolt 64 extending through the bolt hole 132 extends between two or more anchor screws 60 that extend through the anchor screw hole 116. In this way, the fasteners of the bolt 64 and the anchor screws 60 are combined to provide increased strength to the system 100. Due to the interlocking configuration of the fasteners, the portion of the anchor 110 disposed therebetween can rely on compressive strength, sheer strength, and torsional strength in addition to the tensile strength of the material of the anchor 110. Further, the diameter (d1) of the flange 112 increases the surface area supported against the outer surface of the outer layer 90, thus increasing the stability of the bracket system 100 and reducing problems when the load increases.

[0053] In one embodiment, the flange 112 includes one or more guide notches 128, marks, alphanumeric symbols, etc. disposed along the edge of the flange 112 and on the front surface of the flange 112. The guide notches 128 can be disposed along the edge of the flange 112 to indicate one or more measurements. For example, the one or more guide notches 128 can be disposed at positions 90° and 270° about the central longitudinal axis to indicate a transverse axis or a horizontal plane. Similarly, the one or more guide notches 128 can be disposed at positions 0° and 180° about the central longitudinal axis to indicate a cross-sectional axis or a longitudinal plane. As will be appreciated, other guide notches 128 can be disposed at other angles from 1° to 360° about the longitudinal axis. Advantageously, the guide notches 128 can facilitate aligning the anchor 110 with various guide marks, vertical lines, etc.

[0054] Figures 3A - 3D and 5A - 5B show various views of the bracket 150. Figure 3A shows a perspective rear view of the bracket 150. Figure 3B shows a side view. Figure 3C shows a rear view of the bracket 150. Figure 3D shows a bottom view. Figure 5A shows a rear perspective view. Figure 5B shows a bottom perspective view. The bracket 150 generally includes a base 152 disposed rearwardly and a strut 160 extending forwardly along a longitudinal axis from the base 152. In one embodiment, the strut 160 includes a retaining structure 162 disposed at the forward end of the strut 160 opposite the base 152, and the retaining structure 162 is configured to receive a portion of a rod, ring, or similar structure into the retaining structure 162.

[0055] In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1, 3A - 3B, and 5A - 5B, the retaining structure 162 defines a generally cylindrical recess 164 configured to receive an end portion of a rod 190, such as a towel rod, a handle, etc. In one embodiment, the central axis of the retaining recess 164 extends along a lateral axis, although it will be appreciated that the central axis of the retaining recess 164 may also extend along or be angled with respect to other axes without limitation. The end portion of the rod 190 extends into the retaining recess 164 and abuts against the end wall of the retaining recess 164. In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 5A - 5B, the second bracket system 100, as described in more detail herein, similarly secures the opposite end of the rod 190 to fixedly position the rod 190 in place for use as a towel rod, a handle, etc. In one embodiment, a user can cut the rod 190 to a preferred length and dispose the rod 190 between the first bracket system and the second bracket system, as described in more detail herein.

[0056] In one embodiment, the cross - sectional shape (longitudinal plane) of the retaining recess 164 defines a circular shape, although it will be appreciated that other regular or irregular closed - curve shapes, such as oval, oval, square, rectangular, hexagonal, etc., are also conceivable. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3B, the bracket 150 extends along the longitudinal axis by a first length (L1). In one embodiment, the first length (L1) ranges from 2.54 cm to 25.4 cm (1 inch to 10 inches). In one embodiment, the first length (L1) ranges from 7.62 cm to 10.16 cm (3 inches to 4 inches). However, it will be appreciated that longer or shorter lengths are also conceivable.

[0057] In one embodiment, the base 152 extends on the forehead surface and defines an outer periphery 154. In one embodiment, the outer periphery 154 defines a circular shape (forehead surface). However, it will be recognized that other regular or irregular closed curve shapes such as oval, oval, square, rectangle, hexagon, etc. are also conceivable. In one embodiment, the outer periphery 154 of the base 152 defines a third diameter (d3) that is equal to or greater than the first diameter (d1) of the flange 112. In one embodiment, the third diameter (d3) ranges from 5.08 cm to 12.7 cm (2 inches to 5 inches). In one embodiment, the third diameter (d3) ranges from 6.35 cm (2.5 inches). However, it will be recognized that larger or smaller diameters are also conceivable.

[0058] In one embodiment, the rear surface of the base 152 defines a flange recess 156 configured to receive the flange 112 or a portion thereof therein. Thus, the flange recess 156 defines a similar shape that matches the shape of the outer periphery 114 of the flange 112, such as a circular shape. The diameter of the flange recess 156 is equal to or slightly larger than the first diameter (d1) of the flange 112 such that the flange 112 can slidably engage the flange recess 156 along the longitudinal axis. Similarly, the depth of the flange recess 156 extending across the longitudinal axis is equal to or slightly larger than the thickness of the flange 112. Thus, when the anchor 110 is engaged with the bracket 150, the rear surface of the flange 112 is aligned with the rear surface of the bracket 150.

[0059] In one embodiment, the rear surface of the base 152 further includes a recess, i.e., a socket 158, configured to receive the block portion 130 of the anchor 110 therein. Thus, the socket 158 defines a similar shape, e.g., a substantially rectangular shape, that matches the shape of the outer periphery 134 of the block portion 130. The width and height of the socket 158 can be equal to or slightly greater than the first width (w1) and the first height (h1) of the block portion 130, respectively, such that the block portion 130 can slidably engage with the socket 158 along the longitudinal axis. Similarly, the depth of the socket 158 extending across the longitudinal axis is equal to or slightly greater than the second thickness (t2) of the block portion 130. Thus, the block portion 130 fits securely within the socket 158 with little or no gap therebetween. Advantageously, the shape of the block portion 130 and the corresponding shape of the socket 158 prevent rotational movement of the bracket 150 relative to the anchor 110 about the longitudinal axis. Similarly, the depth of the socket 158 relative to the second thickness (t2) of the block portion 130 reduces rotational movement of the bracket 150 relative to the anchor 110 through the longitudinal plane.

[0060] In one embodiment, the outer periphery 154 of the base 152 extends along the longitudinal axis by a second length (L2) to define an outer wall. In one embodiment, the base 152 includes a bolt hole 170 that extends along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and the bolt hole 170 is configured to align with the bolt hole 132 of the block portion 130. As shown, the bolt holes 132, 170 extend along a transverse axis, but it will be appreciated that the bolt holes 132, 170 may also extend along a transverse axis or along an axis that forms an angle between the transverse axis and the lateral axis. The axis 72 of the bolt hole 170 of the bracket 150 extends through the longitudinal midpoint of the socket 158 and aligns with the bolt hole 132 of the block portion 130 when the anchor 110 is engaged with the bracket 150. The bracket bolt hole 170 extends from an inlet disposed on the outer periphery 154 of the base 152 through the socket 158 to a location on the socket 158 opposite the inlet. The diameter of the bolt hole 170 is equal to, slightly smaller than, or slightly larger than the diameter of the shaft of the bolt 64 and includes a threaded portion 172. The threaded portion 172 is disposed at the end of the bolt hole 170 opposite the inlet and may be configured to engage the threaded portion of the bolt 64.

[0061] In one embodiment, the entrance of the bolt hole 170 communicates with the outer periphery 154 of the base 152 and includes a dish hole portion that defines a diameter equal to or larger than the bolt head of the bolt 64 for receiving the bolt head therein. In one embodiment, the bracket bolt hole 170 extends from the entrance on the lower surface, vertically upward through the socket 158 to the threaded portion 172 disposed on the upper surface of the socket 158. In one embodiment, threads are cut along the entire length of the bolt hole 170. When the block portion 130 is fully engaged with the socket 158, the bolt hole 132 of the block portion 130 aligns with the bolt hole 170 of the bracket 150. Next, the bolt 64 extends through both the anchor bolt hole 132 and the bracket bolt hole 170 to screw-fix the bracket 150 to the anchor 110. As described above, the bolt 64 can provide a combined increased strength between the anchor screw hole 116 / anchor screw 60.

[0062] In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 4A-4D, the system 100 further includes an installation jig system (the "jig") 200 configured to align a first bracket system 100A with a second bracket system 100B. The jig 200 includes a first base 210A and a second base 210B. Each of the first base 210A and the second base 210B is slidably engaged with one or more rods 290, such as a first rod 290A and a second rod 290B. In one embodiment, the rod 290 includes an abutting portion 292 disposed at an end of the rod 290. In one embodiment, the abutting portion 292 is integrally formed with the rod 290. In one embodiment, the abutting portion 292 is releasably engaged with the rod 290 by a friction fit, snap fit, screw engagement, or similar suitable attachment mechanism. The abutting portion 292 is configured to prevent the base 210 from disengaging from the rod 290.

[0063] In one embodiment, the base 210 includes a main body 212 that extends on the forehead surface and defines a front surface and a rear surface. The main body 212 includes a block portion opening 214. The width and height of the block portion opening 214 are respectively equal to or slightly greater than the first width (w1) and the first height (h1) of the block portion 130 such that the block portion 130 can slidably engage with the block portion opening 214. Similarly, the depth of the block portion opening 214 extending across the longitudinal axis is equal to or slightly smaller than the second thickness (t2) of the block portion 130. Thus, the block portion 130 securely fits into the block portion opening 214 with little or no gap therebetween and extends through the main body 212 between the rear surface and the front surface of the base 210.

[0064] In one embodiment, the base 210 further includes one or more support screw slots 218. The support screw slots 218 extend through the main body 212 between the front surface and the rear surface and extend along the transverse axis. The support screw slots 218 are aligned with the support screw holes 118 of the anchor 110 when the block portion 130 is engaged with the block portion opening 214.

[0065] In one embodiment, the base 210 further includes one or more channels 220 extending along a transverse axis. The inner diameter of the channel 220 is equal to or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the rod 290. Thus, the rod 290 is slidably engaged with the channel 220 of the base 210. As shown in FIG. 4A, each base 210 includes an upper channel 220A and a lower channel 220B. The upper channel 220A is configured to receive a portion of the first rod 290A, and the lower channel 220B is configured to receive a portion of the second rod 290B. The channel 220 is slidably engaged with the rod 290 so as to align the first base 210A with the second base 210B along the transverse axis. More specifically, the channel 220 is slidably engaged with the rod 290 so as to align the first block portion opening 214A of the first base 210A with the first block portion opening 214B of the second base 210B along the transverse axis. Further, the transverse distance between the first block portion opening 214A and the second block portion opening 214B can be changed as needed. In one embodiment, the transverse length of the rod 290 is 25.4 cm to 91.4 cm (10 inches to 36 inches). In one embodiment, the transverse length of the rod 290 is 61.0 cm (24 inches). However, it will be appreciated that longer or shorter transverse lengths of the rod 290 are also contemplated. As described above, the rod 290 includes an abutting portion 292 disposed at an end of the rod 290 and abutting against the base 210 to prevent the base 210 from coming off the rod 290.

[0066] In one embodiment, the bracket system 100, or a part of the bracket system 100 such as the anchor 110, bracket 150, rod 190, fixture system 200, or combinations thereof, is formed from one or more materials. Exemplary materials can include plastics, polymers, metals, alloys, composites, and the like. In one embodiment, the bracket system 100 or a part thereof is formed from a single monolithic piece. In one embodiment, the bracket system 100 or a part thereof is formed by injection molding or similar molding techniques. In one embodiment, these bracket systems 100 or a part thereof are formed by 3D printing or similar additive manufacturing techniques. In one embodiment, the bracket system 100 or a part thereof is formed as hollow, partially hollow, lattice structure, "honeycomb" structure, and the like.

[0067] In an exemplary usage, a bracket system 100 including one or more of the anchor 110, bracket 150, rod 190, and fixture system 200 is prepared as described herein. In one embodiment, the user aligns the anchor 110 such that the rear surface of the anchor 110 engages the front surface of the wall 98, i.e., the outer layer 90 of the wall 98, such as a drywall layer. More specifically, the rear surface of the anchor 110 is defined by the stud engagement surface 126 of the stud portion 120. Optionally, the user uses a "stud finder" or similar suitable device to identify the location of the support beam 80 behind the outer layer 90. The user then aligns the center point of the stud engagement surface 126 with the central vertical (transverse) axis of the support beam 80.

[0068] As shown, the stud engagement surface 126 defines a generally circular cross-sectional shape. In one embodiment, the stud engagement surface 126 includes spikes 122 extending from the center point of the circular stud engagement surface 126. The user aligns the spikes 122 with the central vertical axis of the support beam 80 and aligns the center of the support beam 80 with the center of the circular stud engagement surface 126 along the lateral axis. Alternatively, or in addition, the user may use a plumb bob or similar suitable means to mark the lateral outer edges of the support beam 80 and position the lateral outermost edge of the engagement surface 126 centered along the lateral axis between these outer edges. Thus, the spikes 122 are aligned with the central vertical axis of the support beam 70. Once the spikes 122 are so aligned, the user presses the anchor 110 against the outer layer 90 of the wall 98 or lightly taps the front face of the anchor 110 with a hammer or the like to form a recess in the wall face where the spikes 122 indicate the center point of the stud engagement surface 126. Next, the user uses the recess formed by the spikes 122 as a marker for aligning a hole saw, spade bit, or similar device configured to drill a hole through the outer layer having a diameter the same as or slightly larger than the second diameter (d2) of the stud portion 120.

[0069] In one embodiment, the stud engagement surface 126 includes a continuous or discontinuous rim (not shown) extending longitudinally along the outer edge of the stud engagement surface 126. The rim extends a longitudinal distance from the stud engagement surface 126 similar to that of the spikes 122. When the user lightly hammers or presses the anchor 110 into the wall surface, the rim indicates to the user the outer perimeter of the hole to be drilled in the outer layer of the wall.

[0070] When a hole is formed in the outer layer 90, the support beam 80 behind the outer layer is exposed. Next, the user slides the stud portion 120 of the anchor 110 through the hole in the outer layer 90 such that the stud engagement surface 126 is in direct contact with the surface of the support beam 80. Alternatively, or in addition, the user slides the stud portion 120 of the anchor 110 through the hole such that the rear surface of the flange 112 engages the front surface of the wall 98, i.e., the front surface of the outer layer 90. Advantageously, the hole formed in the outer layer 90 is sized to slidably engage the stud portion 120 in an interference fit and holds the anchor 110 in place when engaged with the stud portion 120.

[0071] Advantageously, due to the circular shape of the stud portion 120, the user can rotate the anchor 110 about its longitudinal axis until the vertical axis of the anchor 110 is correctly aligned, e.g., until the transverse axis of the anchor 110 is aligned with the vertical axis of the support beam 80, or a plumb line, spirit level, etc. In other words, the anchor 110 can be rotated about its longitudinal axis until the upper surface of the block portion 130 is aligned with a horizontal axis, for example, using a spirit level.

[0072] Once the anchor 110 is properly aligned, the user places screws through one or more of the support screw holes 118 and secures the anchor 110 in place by fixing the anchor 110, ensuring that it does not rotate any further about the longitudinal axis once properly aligned. Note that the screws placed through the support screw holes 118 are relatively short and / or thin compared to the anchor screws 60. Next, the user places the anchor screws 60 through each of the anchor screw holes 116 to directly fix the anchor 110 to the support beam 80. As shown, the anchor 110 includes four anchor screw holes 116, and thus the user places four anchor screws 60, one through each anchor screw hole 116, to directly fix the anchor 110 to the support beam 80. However, it will be appreciated that a greater or fewer number of anchor screws 60 can be used. The screw heads 62 of the anchor screws 60 abut against the front face of the anchor 110, pressing the anchor 110 onto the support beam 80 to fix the anchor 110 to the support beam 80. In one embodiment, the screw heads 62 are received within the countersunk hole portions 138 of the front face of the anchor 110. Optionally, the support screws can then be removed.

[0073] In one embodiment, next the bracket 150 is slidably engaged with the anchor 110. The block portion 130 is slidably engaged with the socket 158 until the bolt hole 132 of the block portion 130 is aligned with the bolt hole 170 of the bracket 150. The user then slides the bolt 64 through the bolt hole 132 of the block portion 130 through the entrance of the bolt hole 170 and threads the threaded portion 172 of the bolt hole 170 located on the opposite side of the socket 158. In one embodiment, the flange 112 is received within the flange recess 156 such that the rearmost face of the base 152 of the bracket 150 engages the surface of the wall 98.

[0074] Advantageously, the stud engagement surface 126 of the anchor 110 extends through the outer layer 90 and engages the surface of the support beam 80, reducing movement of the anchor 110 through any plane that extends longitudinally, horizontally, or at an angle to those planes. Further, the flange 112 engages the front surface of the outer layer 90 to further stabilize the anchor 110 and reduce movement in the longitudinal or horizontal plane.

[0075] In contrast, a bracket system or similar fastening system that is supported by the front surface of the outer layer 90 of the wall 98 and includes an anchor screw that extends through the outer layer 90 and optionally through the support beam 80 is relatively weaker with respect to movement in the longitudinal or horizontal plane. Such a bracket system is supported a distance of the outer layer 90 away from the support beam 80. The compressive strength of the outer layer 90 may be less than that of the support beam 80. Thus, the bracket system can be forced to rotate through the longitudinal or horizontal plane, crushing or denting the outer layer 90 between the bracket and the support beam 80, resulting in a malfunction of the bracket system.

[0076] In one embodiment, two or more bracket systems 100 are used to attach a structure to the wall surface 98. Exemplary structures include towel rods 190, guide rails, handrails, shelf supports, picture hangers, TV mounts, exercise equipment, suspension bars, shower curtain rods, curtains, and the like. Thus, aligning the anchors 110 of two or more bracket systems 100 can be important to ensure alignment of the first retaining structure 162A and the second retaining structure 162B. As shown in FIGS. 4A - 4C, a jig system 200 is used to ensure proper alignment.

[0077] In an exemplary usage, the first anchor 110A can be fixed through the outer layer 90 of the wall and engaged with the first support beam 90A as described herein. The anchor 110 can be rotated about its longitudinal axis using, for example, a plumb line, spirit level, etc., until the vertical axis and / or horizontal axis of the anchor 110 is correctly aligned. In one embodiment, before using the support screw or anchor screw 60 to fix the anchor 110, the first base 210 of the jig 200 engages with the anchor 110 by slidably engaging the block portion 130 with the block portion opening 214. Advantageously, the base 210 provides a larger surface area for supporting the spirit level device and providing means for accurately aligning the anchor 110. Once the assembly of the anchor 110 and the base 210 is correctly aligned, the support screw is advanced through the support screw hole 118 through the support screw slot 218 of the base 210 and engaged with the outer layer of the wall 98 to fix the anchor 110 in place. Alternatively, or in addition, the anchor screw 60 is advanced through the anchor screw hole 116 to fix the first anchor 110A to the first support beam 80A.

[0078] In one embodiment, the first end of the first support rod 290A engages with the upper channel 220A of the first base 210A, and the second end of the first support rod 290A, opposite the first end, engages with the upper channel 220A of the second base 210B. Similarly, the first end of the second support rod 290B engages with the lower channel 220B of the first base 210A, and the second end of the second support rod 290B, opposite the first end, engages with the lower channel 220B of the second base 210B. Next, the block portion 130 of the second anchor 110B engages with the block portion opening 214B of the second base 210B. The user then slides the assembly of the second anchor 110B and the second base 210B along the transverse axis until the spike 122 of the second anchor 110B is aligned with the central transverse axis of the second support beam 80B. The abutting portion 292 prevents the second base 210B from disengaging from the rod 290.

[0079] Advantageously, the jig system 200 can quickly and accurately align the second bracket system 100B with the second support beam 80B while maintaining the second bracket system 100B along the same lateral axis as the first bracket system 100A. The user can then mark the position of the second anchor 110B, drill a hole through the outer layer 90, and directly secure the second anchor 110B to the second support beam 80B as described herein. As described herein, the first bracket is then coupled to the first anchor 110A and then the second bracket is coupled to the second anchor 110B. Engaging the first end of the rod 190 with the retaining structure of the first bracket and the second end of the rod 190, opposite the first end, with the retaining structure of the second bracket provides, for example, a towel rack. In one embodiment, the bracket system 100 supports significantly greater loads, such as loads of 272 kilograms (600 pounds) or more, depending on the configuration of the anchor screws 60, support beams, etc. Advantageously, using a towel rack with the bracket system 100 reduces damage to the wall due to accidentally applying an excessive load to the bracket system 100.

[0080] Figures 6A-6D generally illustrate an embodiment of a ring bracket system 300 that includes an anchor 310 and a ring bracket 350. In one embodiment, the anchor 310 includes a flange 112, a stud portion 120, a block portion 130, and one or more screw holes 116, as described herein. In one embodiment, the ring bracket 350 includes a base 152 that defines an outer perimeter 154, a support post 160, a socket 158, a flange recess 156, and a bolt hole 170, as described herein. In one embodiment, the support post includes a ring 390 fixed to or hingedly coupled to the support post. Thus, the ring bracket system 300 can be used as a towel hanging ring, a handle, an eyebolt, or a similar structure configured to secure a ring or hoop to a surface.

[0081] In one embodiment, the support column 160 is rotatably coupled to the base 152 such that the support column 160 and any structure coupled to the support column 160, such as the ring 390, can rotate about the longitudinal axis of the support column 160. In one embodiment, the ring bracket 350 includes a bearing 366 that extends into the socket 158 from the forehead surface of the socket 158 that extends longitudinally rearward. In one embodiment, the anchor 310 includes an anchor recess 136 that extends rearward from the foremost surface of the block portion 130. Thus, the bearing that extends into the socket 158 is received within the anchor recess 136 when the ring bracket 350 engages the anchor 310. In one embodiment, the anchor screw hole 116 is disposed within the anchor recess 136.

[0082] In one embodiment, the bracket bolt hole 170 communicates between the outer periphery 154 of the base 152 and the socket 158. In one embodiment, the anchor bolt hole 132 communicates with the outer surface of the block portion 130 and the anchor recess 136. Thus, when the block portion 130 is engaged with the socket 158, the bracket bolt hole 170 aligns with the anchor bolt hole 132, and the bolt 64 engages the bracket bolt hole 170 and the anchor bolt hole 132 to fix the bracket 350 to the anchor 310. One or both of the bracket bolt hole 170 and the anchor bolt hole 132 may be threaded to threadedly engage the bolt 64. In one embodiment, the bolt 64 extends through the anchor bolt hole 132 and engages the bearing 366. In one embodiment, the bolt 64 extends through the anchor bolt hole 132 and engages the surface on the opposite side of the anchor recess 136. In one embodiment, the bolt 64 extends through the first anchor bolt hole 132, crosses the anchor recess 136, and extends through a second anchor bolt hole disposed on the opposite side of the anchor recess 136 and communicating with the outer surface of the block portion 130. Thus, the bolt 64 engages the threaded portion 172 of the bracket 350 on the opposite side of the socket 158 as described herein.

[0083] In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7A - 7B, the bracket system 100 can further include a support arm system 400. For example, the bracket system 100 described herein may need to be aligned with a portion of the wall 98 that does not include the support beam 80 disposed behind the anchor 110. For example, if the first bracket system 100A is aligned with the support beam 80 and the rod 190 needs to be less than 40.64 cm (16 inches), the second bracket system 100B that supports the opposite end of the rod 190 may not be aligned with the second support beam 80. Thus, the bracket system 100 further includes a support arm system 400 for fixing the anchor to the outer layer 90 of the wall 98.

[0084] The support arm system 400 includes a support arm 410 that extends between a first end 412 and a second end 414 to define a second height (h2), and extends between a first side and a second side to define a second width (w2). In one embodiment, the second height (h2) is 1.5 to 10 times the first height (h1), although higher and lower heights are considered to be within the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment, the second width (w2) is equal to or greater than the first width (w1). In one embodiment, the second width (w2) is equal to or less than the second diameter (d2). However, it will be recognized that wider and narrower second widths (w2) are considered to be within the scope of the present invention.

[0085] In one embodiment, the support arm 410 includes one or more anchor screw holes 416 disposed proximate the first end 412. Each of the one or more anchor screw holes 416 of the anchor screw holes is aligned with the anchor screw hole 116 of the anchor 110. The diameter of the anchor screw hole 416 is smaller than the outer diameter of the anchor screw 60 such that the anchor screw 60 engages the hole 416 with an interference fit.

[0086] In one embodiment, the support arm 410 defines a wall engagement surface 422 that extends on the front surface of the support arm 410 and is configured to engage the rear surface of the outer layer 90. In one embodiment, the surface of the support arm 410, such as the wall engagement surface 422, includes a textured surface. Exemplary textured surfaces can include, but are not limited to, one or more protrusions, ridges, ribs, spikes, protrusions, pyramidal protrusions, knurling (zigzag shape), etc. that are configured to engage the rear surface of the outer layer 90 and reduce slippage therebetween. In one embodiment, the surface of the support arm 410, such as the wall engagement surface 422, includes a second material having a high coefficient of friction and configured to reduce slippage between the support arm (support art) and the outer layer 90. In one embodiment, the support arm 410 further includes a relief portion that defines a recessed surface 420 that extends parallel to the wall engagement surface 422 and is disposed behind the wall engagement surface 422 along the longitudinal axis. The recessed surface 420 extends around one or more anchor screw holes 416 and defines a diameter equal to or slightly larger than the second diameter (d2) of the stud portion 120. Thus, as the anchor screw 60 is tightened, the screw 60 presses the rearmost surface of the anchor 110 onto the recessed surface 420 of the support arm 410 with the stud portion 120 aligned with the relief portion. As shown in FIG. 7B, the recessed surface 420 is disposed behind the wall engagement surface 422. Thus, when the rearmost surface of the anchor 110 engages the recessed surface 420, the wall engagement surface 422 is pressed forward toward the rear surface of the outer layer 90, applying pressure to the rear surface. Advantageously, as shown in FIG. 7B, where the thickness of the outer layer 90 can vary and is equal to or slightly smaller than the first thickness (t1) of the stud portion 120, the longitudinal distance of the recessed surface 420 relative to the wall engagement surface 422 ensures that the wall engagement surface 422 of the support arm 410 is firmly pressed against the rear surface of the outer layer 90.

[0087] In an exemplary usage, the anchor 110 can be aligned with a hole drilled through the outer wall surface 90 and having a diameter equal to or slightly greater than the second diameter (d2). As shown in FIG. 7A, the tip of one or more anchor screws 60 extends through the anchor screw hole 116 of the anchor 110 and engages the anchor screw hole 416 of the support arm 410. Due to the length of the screw 60, the support arm 410 and the anchor 110 are in a spaced-apart relationship. The support arm 410 is then fed through the hole in the outer layer 90 until the first end 412 engages the back side of the outer layer 90 on the first side of the hole and the second end 414 engages the back side of the outer layer 90 on the second side of the hole opposite the first side.

[0088] As will be appreciated, the second end 414 extends further from the anchor 110 than the first end 412 and thus provides a mechanical advantage that resists the pivoting of the bracket and arm system 100, 400 through a plane aligned with the support arm 410. Once the support arm 410 is positioned on the back side of the outer layer 90, the assembly of the anchor 110 and the support arm 410 can be rotated about the longitudinal axis until the support arm 410 is aligned as needed. For example, as shown in FIG. 7B, the second end 414 can be aligned upward along the transverse (vertical) axis to provide a mechanical advantage against a downward transverse force that can rotate the bracket system through the longitudinal plane. As will be appreciated, the anchor 110 can be rotated as needed until the second end 414 is aligned with other axes.

[0089] Once properly aligned, the anchor screw 60 can be tightened to compress the anchor 110 onto the support arm 410 and optionally compress a portion of the outer layer 90 between a portion of the flange 112 and a portion of the support arm 410 to secure the anchor 110 in place. The bracket 150 can be secured to the anchor 110 as described herein.

[0090] Figures 8A-8D illustrate an embodiment of the dual anchor bracket system 500. FIG. 8A shows an exploded view of the dual anchor bracket system 500. FIG. 8B shows a perspective view of the dual anchor bracket system 500. FIG. 8C shows an enlarged detail of the dual anchor bracket system 500. FIG. 8D shows a front view of the anchor system 510 of the dual anchor bracket system 500. The dual anchor bracket system 500 generally includes an anchor system 510 having a first anchor 110A and a second anchor 110B that are coupled together by a support flange 512 extending between a first flange 112A and a second flange 112B. In one embodiment, the first anchor 110A, the second anchor 110B, and the support flange 512 are integrally formed as a single unitary piece. In one embodiment, the first anchor 110A, the second anchor 110B, and the support flange 512 are formed as separate structures and are coupled together using an adhesive, joining, welding, or the like. Each of the first anchor 110A and the second anchor 110B includes a stud portion 120 (e.g., a first stud portion 120A and a second stud portion 120B), a block portion 130 (e.g., a first block portion 130A and a second block portion 130B), one or more anchor screw holes 116, a bolt hole 132, and the like, as described in the embodiments of the present specification.

[0091] The dual anchor bracket system 500 further includes a first bracket 150A configured to engage a first anchor 110A and a second bracket 150B configured to engage a second anchor 110B. Each of the first bracket 150A and the second bracket 150B includes a base 152 (e.g., a first base 152A and a second base 152B) and a support 160 (e.g., a first support 160A and a second support 160B) as described in embodiments herein. In one embodiment, the base 152 of the bracket 150 includes a notch 554 that extends between the outer periphery 154 and the flange recess 156 of each of the first bracket 150A and the second bracket 150B. For example, the first bracket 150A includes a first notch 554A and the second bracket 150B includes a second notch 554B. When the bracket 150 engages the anchor 110, a portion of the support flange 512 coupled to the flange 112 of the anchor 110 extends through the notch 554.

[0092] In one embodiment, the support 160 of the bracket 150 includes a retaining structure 562. For example, the first support 160A includes a first retaining structure 562A and the second support 160B includes a second retaining structure 562B. The retaining structure 562 includes a recess 564 that extends into the support 160 along a front face, i.e., along both a transverse axis and a cross-sectional axis, and the recess 564 is configured to receive an end portion 592 of a rod 590.

[0093] Thus, when the rod 590 is engaged with both the first bracket 150A and the second bracket 150B, the rod 590 extends between the first retaining structure 562A and the second retaining structure 562B along the lateral axis from the first recess 564A and the second recess 564B. Further, when the first bracket 150A and the second bracket 150B are fixed in place on the wall 98, the rod 90 can be disengaged from the first bracket 150A and the second bracket 150B by sliding the rod 590 along the transverse axis to remove the first end 592A from the first retaining structure 562A and the second end 592B from the second retaining structure 562B.

[0094] Advantageously, the support flange 512 keeps the assembly of the first anchor 110A and the bracket 150A at a predetermined distance from the assembly of the second anchor 110B and the bracket 150B. This predetermined distance enables the rod 590 to be reliably received within the first retaining structure 562A and the second retaining structure 562B, preventing any movement of the rod 590 along the lateral axis between these retaining structures. Further, the support flange 512 prevents the rod 590 from being unable to engage correctly with the first retaining structure 562A and the second retaining structure 562B due to the distance between the first anchor 110A and the second anchor 110B being too close.

[0095] In one embodiment, one or more of the first retaining structure 562A and the second retaining structure 562B engage with the first end 592A and the second end 592B of the rod 590 in an interference fit, press fit, or snap fit. In one embodiment, one or more of the first retaining structure 562A, the second retaining structure 562B, the first end 592A, and the second end 592B of the rod 590 include one or more of a protrusion, detent, claw, abutment, clip, latch, or similar structure configured to releasably hold the first end 592A and the second end 592B of the rod 590 within the first retaining structure 562A and the second retaining structure 562B, respectively.

[0096] In one embodiment, one or more of the first retaining structure 562A, the second retaining structure 562B, the first end 592A and the second end 592B of the rod 590 include a magnetic element 594. As used herein, magnetic elements include permanent magnets, a portion of a ferromagnetic metal, a portion of a magnetizable material, electromagnets, and the like. Advantageously, one or more magnetic elements 594 can facilitate retaining the rod 590 with the bracket 150, or more specifically, retaining one or both of the first end 592A and the second end 592B of the rod 590 with the first retaining structure 562A and the second retaining structure 562B, respectively.

[0097] In one embodiment, one or more of the magnetic elements 594 include a bolt 66 that is screwed with one or more of the first retaining structure 562A, the second retaining structure 562B, the first end 592A and the second end 592B of the rod 590. Advantageously, by rotating the bolt 66, the lateral distance between the magnetic element 594 and the rod 590 can be adjusted, and the distance therebetween can be finely adjusted. This enables the rod 590 to be reliably retained by the brackets 150A, 150B while still allowing the rod 590 to selectively disengage from the brackets 150A, 150B.

[0098] In an exemplary usage, the user aligns one or both of the first anchor 110A and the second anchor 110B on the outer layer 90 of the wall 98 as described herein and punches a hole through the outer layer 90 to receive the stud portion 120 therein as described herein. In one embodiment, the user attaches one or both of the first anchor 110A and the second anchor 110B to a support beam 80 disposed behind the outer layer 90. Optionally, the user attaches one or both of the first anchor 110A and the second anchor 110B to the outer layer 90 using the support arm system 400 as described herein. When the first anchor 110A and the second anchor 110B are fixed to the wall 98, the support flange 512 extends on the front surface of the outer layer 90 between the first anchor 110A and the second anchor 110B. Optionally, the support flange 512 extends through a portion of the outer layer 90 between the first anchor 110A and the second anchor 110B.

[0099] Once the first anchor 110A and the second anchor 110B are fixed in place, one or more bolts 64 are used to couple the first bracket 150A to the first anchor 110A and the second bracket to the second anchor 110B as described herein. Advantageously, the first notch 554A and the second notch 554B ensure that the first retaining structure 562A is correctly oriented with respect to the second retaining structure 562B. Further, the support flange 512 ensures that the first bracket 150A and the first retaining structure 562A are correctly spaced apart from the second bracket 150B and the second retaining structure 562B. Next, the rod 590 is received within the retaining structures 562A, 562B along a transverse axis. The rod 590 can be releasably fixed in place using one or more of an interference fit, a press fit, a snap fit, a protrusion, a detent, a claw, a contact portion, a clip, a latch, or a magnetic element 594 as described herein.

[0100] Some specific embodiments are disclosed herein, and although those specific embodiments are disclosed to some extent, it is not intended to limit the scope of the concepts provided herein. Further adaptations and / or modifications may be apparent to those skilled in the art, and in a broader aspect, these adaptations and / or modifications are equally included. Accordingly, developments from the specific embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented without departing from the scope of the concepts provided herein.

Claims

1. A bracket system for connecting to a wall having an outer layer and support beams, It is an anchor, A flange extending parallel to the surface of the wall on the frontal plane, defining the front and rear surfaces, A stud portion extending from the rear surface of the flange, wherein the stud portion extends through the outer layer and defines a stud engagement surface configured to engage with the support beam, An anchor comprising a block portion extending from the front surface of the flange, A bracket system comprising: a bracket configured to slidably engage with the block portion and having a base that defines a socket fixed to the block portion.

2. The bracket system according to claim 1, further comprising an anchor screw hole extending longitudinally between the front surface of the block portion and the stud engagement surface of the stud portion, wherein the anchor screw hole includes a countersunk portion that leads to the front surface of the anchor.

3. The bracket system according to claim 2, further comprising bolt holes extending transversely through a portion of the bracket and the block portion, wherein the bolt holes extend between a plane defined by the countersunk portion and a plane defined by the stud engagement surface.

4. The bracket system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the bracket further includes a column extending along a longitudinal axis, the column includes a retaining structure positioned at the front end of the column, and the retaining structure defines a recess extending along a lateral axis.

5. The bracket system according to claim 4, wherein the recess is configured to receive a portion of a towel rack rod into the recess.

6. The bracket system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the rear surface of the base includes a flange recess defining a diameter and thickness equal to or slightly greater than the diameter and thickness of the flange, respectively, and the flange recess is configured to slidably engage with the flange when the bracket is engaged with the anchor.

7. The bracket system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the block portion defines a rectangular cross-sectional shape along the frontal plane, and the stud portion defines a circular cross-sectional shape along the frontal plane.

8. A bracket system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising one or both of a spike structure and a rim, wherein the spike structure extends rearward from the center point of the stud engagement surface, the rim extends rearward from the periphery of the stud engagement surface, and each of the spike structure and the rim is configured to create a recess in the front surface of the wall.

9. The bracket system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a jig system having one or more bases having a body defining a block portion opening and a channel, wherein the block portion opening extends longitudinally and is configured to slidably engage with the block portion of the anchor, and the channel extends along a transverse axis.

10. The bracket system according to claim 9, further comprising a rod having an outer diameter equal to or slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the channel, wherein the rod is configured to slidably engage with the channel.

11. The bracket system according to claim 9, wherein one of the one or more bases further includes a longitudinally extending support screw slot, the support screw slot being configured to align with a support screw opening extending through the flange when the block portion is engaged with the block portion opening of the base.

12. A method for attaching a bracket system to a wall having an outer layer supported by a support beam, The stud portion of the anchor is extended through the outer layer to contact the support beam, The anchor is fixed to the support beam by extending an anchor screw having an anchor screw head through the anchor, The socket of the bracket is slidably engaged with the block portion of the anchor, A method comprising screwing a bolt through a portion of its base and the block portion of the anchor between a plane defined by the anchor screw head and the surface of the support beam.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the anchor further includes a flange extending along the frontal plane between the stud portion and the block portion, the rear surface of the flange engaging with the front surface of the outer layer of the wall.

14. The method according to claim 13, further comprising aligning the transverse axis of the anchor with the vertical axis, and fixing the anchor in place using a support screw extending through the flange.

15. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the stud portion defines a circular cross-sectional shape, and the block portion defines a rectangular cross-sectional shape.

16. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 14, further comprising: aligning the stud engagement surface of the stud portion with the front surface of the outer layer and the vertical centerline of the support beam; pressing the anchor against the outer layer; and making a recess in the outer layer using one or both of the spike and rim extending from the stud engagement surface to indicate a position for forming a hole that extends so that the stud portion contacts the support beam.

17. Engaging the first base of the jig system with the block portion of the first anchor, The block portion of the second anchor is engaged with the second base, The first base and the second base are slidably engaged with the rod body, The second base is slid along the lateral axis relative to the first base, The method according to any one of claims 12 to 14, further comprising aligning the second anchor with the second support beam.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein one or both of the first base and the second base include a block portion opening that extends between the front and rear surfaces and slidably engages with the block portion.

19. The method according to claim 17, further comprising fixing the first base to the first anchor by extending a support screw through a support screw slot and through a support screw opening located in the flange of the anchor.

20. The method according to claim 17, further comprising engaging a rod between the retaining structure of the bracket and the retaining structure of the second bracket to form a towel rack.

21. A dual anchor bracket system for coupling to a wall having an outer layer and a support beam, A first anchor including a first flange, a first stud portion extending from the rear surface of the first flange, and a first block portion extending from the front surface of the first flange, A second anchor comprising a second flange, a second stud portion extending from the rear surface of the second flange, and a second block portion extending from the front surface of the second flange, A support flange extending between the first flange and the second flange, A first bracket configured to engage with the first block portion, A second bracket configured to engage with the second block portion, A dual anchor bracket system comprising: a rod configured to engage with one or both of the first bracket and the second bracket.

22. The dual anchor bracket system according to claim 21, wherein the first anchor, the second anchor, and the support flange are integrally formed as a single, integrated structure.

23. The dual anchor bracket system according to claim 21 or 22, wherein the first bracket includes a first receiving structure having a first recess extending along a first transverse axis and a lateral axis, and the second bracket includes a second receiving structure having a second recess extending along a second transverse axis and the lateral axis.

24. The dual anchor bracket system according to claim 23, wherein the first recess is configured to hold a first end of the rod, and the second recess is configured to hold a second end of the rod.

25. The dual anchor bracket system according to claim 24, wherein one or more of the first recess, the second recess, the first end and the second end of the rod include a magnetic element configured to releasably hold the first end of the rod in the first receiving structure or to releasably hold the second end of the rod in the second receiving structure.

26. The dual anchor bracket system according to claim 25, wherein one or more of the first recess, the second recess, the first end of the rod, and the second end of the rod include a bolt that is screwed into one or more of these and configured to adjust the lateral distance between the magnetic element and the rod.

27. The dual anchor bracket system according to claim 25, wherein one or more of the first recess, the second recess, the first end of the rod, and the second end of the rod include an interlocking fit, press fit, snap fit, projection, retaining mechanism, claw, contact, clip, or latch configured to releasably hold the rod.

28. The dual anchor bracket system according to claim 21 or 22, wherein one or both of the first anchor and the second anchor include a notch configured to communicate between a flange recess and the outer circumference and to receive a portion of the support flange internally.

29. A method of attaching a bracket system to a wall, Prepare the anchor and support arm assembly, The stud portion of the anchor extends through a hole in the outer layer of the wall, the anchor is slidably engaged at the first end of the anchor screw, and the support arm is screwed into the second end of the anchor screw. The first end of the support arm is engaged with the rear surface of the outer layer on the first side of the hole, and the second end of the support arm is engaged with the rear surface of the outer layer on the second side of the hole opposite to the first side. Rotating the anchor screw to press the rearmost surface of the anchor against the surface of the support arm, A method comprising compressing a portion of the outer layer between the front surface of the support arm and the rear surface of the flange of the anchor.

30. The method according to claim 29, further comprising: slidably engaging the socket of the bracket with the block portion of the anchor; and screwing a bolt through a part of the base of the bracket and the block portion of the anchor.

31. The method according to claim 30, wherein the bracket includes a support column that is rotatably engaged with a base.

32. The method according to claim 30 or 31, wherein the anchor screw engages with the support arm in close proximity to the first end of the support arm.

33. The method according to claim 32, wherein the flange extends along the frontal plane between the stud portion and the block portion, the stud portion defines a circular cross-sectional shape, and the block portion defines a rectangular cross-sectional shape.

34. The method according to any one of claims 29 to 31, wherein the width of the support arm is equal to or greater than the diameter of the stud portion and less than the diameter of the flange.

35. The method according to any one of claims 29 to 31, wherein the front surface of the support arm includes a wall engagement surface and a recessed surface, the recessed surface extends parallel to the wall engagement surface and is configured to engage with the rearmost surface of the anchor, and the wall engagement surface is positioned in front of the recessed surface.

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