A surface-mounting device

Abstract

A surface-mounting device (10) for suspending an object comprising a suction cup (28) configured for short-term adherence to a surface and a cleat hook (14) mounted to the suction cup. The cleat hook (14) comprises opposing arms extending from a central body. The cleat hook is configured to secure objects in either a vertical or horizontal orientation relative to the mounting surface. The geometry of the opposing arms provides an even distribution of weight, preventing slip, swing, or torque-induced detachment of the suction cup, particularly when mounted to horizontal surfaces such as tables. The cleat arms may be curved inwards to the base for compactness.

Description

A SURFACE-MOUNTING DEVICETECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to temporary hanging and anchoring devices and, more particularly, to a portable anchoring device and holder for suspending items such as handbags. The invention relates specifically to a surface mounting device configured for multi-orientation use via a cleat mechanism.BACKGROUND

[0002] It is often difficult to find a secure and hygienic place to store an object, such as a bag, off the ground in indoor and outdoor settings. For example, at a cafe or restaurant, dining tables often lack space for a handbag, forcing individuals to place their bags on the ground. Placing bags on the floor presents significant hygiene risks as pathogens found on the ground, such as Bacillus, Micrococcus, Pseudomonas, and Staphylococcus, can transfer onto the bag and subsequently to the user’s hands or other surfaces. This is particularly problematic in environments with high bacterial loads, such as public bathrooms.

[0003] While suction-based hooks exist in the prior art, they suffer from significant functional limitations regarding orientation and load stability. Standard suction hooks, typically comprising a single J-shaped hook or peg, are designed primarily for vertical hanging on walls, where gravity pulls the load parallel to the mounting surface. These prior art devices frequently fail when used on horizontal surfaces, such as the top or underside of a table, because the typical fixed, single hook lacks the specific geometry required for effective use on both a vertical and horizontal aspect.

[0004] Additionally, prior art devices frequently fail when used on horizontal surfaces because they lack the ability to stabilize the load in that orientation. When a standard single-point hook is oriented horizontally, the hanging item rests on a single pivot point. Any movement or swinging of the object creates torque around that single point. Because standard hooks lack lateral support, this torque translates into a peeling force at the edge of the suction cup, breaking the vacuum seal and causing detachment. Consequently, known devices cannot effectively secure items in both vertical and horizontal orientations.

[0005] Furthermore, prior art devices that offer folding capabilities typically utilise a singlecentral hook that pivots. While this allows for storage, it does not solve the issue of rotational instability when the device is under load in a horizontal orientation. There is a need for a portable device that combines non-invasive, short-term suction mounting with a specific cleat geometry capable of securing items stably in both vertical and horizontal orientations.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] According to the present invention, there is provided a surface-mounting device comprising:(a) a base;(b) a suction cup assembly connected to the base for adhering the device to a mounting surface;(c) a lever mechanism configured to activate the suction cup assembly; and(d) a retention member connected to the base;characterised in that the retention member comprises a cleat hook having a pair of opposing arms extending outwardly from a central body, wherein the opposing arms are configured to distribute the load of a suspended object to prevent torque-induced detachment of the suction cup.

[0007] The use of a cleat geometry — traditionally used in marine applications for securing ropes — in a suction device allows for a "hybrid" functionality absent in the prior art. Unlike single-hook designs which are limited to vertical use, the specific geometry of the opposing arms enables the device to secure objects in either a vertical orientation or a horizontal orientation relative to the mounting surface. When mounted horizontally, the opposing arms create a cradle that prevents a suspended strap from sliding or rotating. This distributes the weight evenly across the base, neutralising the torque that would otherwise peel a standard suction cup off the surface.

[0008] Preferably, the opposing arms of the cleat hook are permanently curved inwards toward the base. This curved profile transforms the device into a compact, non-snagging unit suitable for transport in a handbag or gear kit.

[0009] In one embodiment, the lever mechanism is connected to the suction cup via a lifting mechanism comprising a rod. Engaging the lever draws the rod through the base to create a vacuum. A spring is preferably disposed over the rod to bias the suction cup toward a deactivated state when the lever is disengaged, facilitating easy removal. The suction cup is preferablyconstructed of silicon or a similar deformable material capable of adhering to smooth, non-porous surfaces such as glass, laminate, tile, or polished stone.

[0010] Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention..BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0011] Embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0012] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the top of a surface-mounting device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the bottom of the device of Figure 1.

[0014] Figure 3 is an exploded view of the device of Figure 1.

[0015] Figure 4 is an illustration of the device of Figure 1 underneath a table in a horizontal orientation.

[0016] Figure 5 is an illustration of the device of Figure 1 above a table in a horizontal orientation.

[0017] Figure 6 is an illustration of the device of Figure 1 on a vertical surface.

[0018] Figure 7 is an illustration of the device of Figure 1 in use on a vertical toilet wall.

[0019] Figure 8 is a front view of the device of Figure 1.

[0020] Figure 9 is a rear view of the device of Figure 1.

[0021] Figure 10 is a bottom view of the device of Figure 1.

[0022] Figure 11 is a top view of the device of Figure 1, with the lever engaged.

[0023] Figure 12 is a top view of the device of Figure 1, with the lever disengaged.

[0024] Figure 13 is a right-side view of the device of Figure 1, with the lever engaged.

[0025] Figure 14 is a right-side view of the device of Figure 1, with the lever disengaged.

[0026] Figure 15 is a left side view of the device of Figure 1, with the lever engaged.

[0027] Figure 16 is a left side view of the device of Figure 1, with the lever disengaged.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] Figures 1 and 2 show a surface-mounting device 10 comprising a base 12 and a retention member in the form of a cleat hook 14. Unlike prior art devices which utilise a single central hook, the cleat hook 14 comprises two distinct, opposing arms extending outwardly from the central body of the device.

[0029] Referring to Figure 3, the device 10 utilises a suction cup 28 connected to the base 12. A lever 30 is connected to the suction cup 28 via a lifting mechanism comprising a rod 32 that passes through an aperture 34 in the base 12. A pin 38 connects the lever 30 to the rod 32, and a spring 42 is positioned between the suction cup 28 and the base 12. Engaging the lever 30 draws the rod 32 upwards, pulling the centre of the suction cup 28 away from the mounting surface while the base 12 presses the perimeter of the cup down, creating a vacuum cavity.

[0030] The inventive step lies in the synergy between the suction actuation and the cleat geometry which provides stability and multi-orientation capability. In horizontal applications (Figures 4 and 5), gravity acts perpendicular to the suction axis. In prior art single-hook devices, a suspended strap would settle at the lowest point, and any lateral movement would torque the hook, breaking the suction seal. The cleat hook 14 uses opposing arms to cradle the strap, creating distributed contact that prevents the strap from twisting the device and laterally distributing the load to maintain the integrity of the vacuum seal. In vertical applications (Figures 6 and 7), the cleat hook 14 acts as a secure anchor, providing a deep recess that prevents an item from slipping off.

[0031] As shown in Figures 13 and 14, the cleat hook 14 arms are curved inwards, contouring toward the base 12. This curved shape protects the arms from damage and prevents them from snagging on other items, solving a portability issue present in fixed-hook prior art. The device therefore provides a hybrid mounting solution: the removability of a suction cup combined with the shear-load stability of a marine-style cleat, adapted for portable personal use. While the illustrated embodiments focus on a bag, the multi-orientation capability and stability make the device suitable for wide-ranging applications, including use in camping environments, bathrooms, kitchens, and temporary accommodations where existing fixtures are insufficient.

[0032] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word ‘comprising’ and its derivatives including ‘comprises’ and ‘comprise’ include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

[0033] Reference throughout this specification to ‘one embodiment’ or ‘an embodiment’ means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases ‘in one embodiment’ or ‘in an embodiment’ in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[0034] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A surface-mounting device comprising:(a) a base;(b) a suction cup assembly connected to the base for adhering the device to a mounting surface;(c) a lever mechanism operably connected to the suction cup assembly, wherein engaging the lever activates the suction cup to adhere to the mounting surface; and(d) a retention member mounted to the base;characterised in that the retention member comprises a cleat hook having a pair of opposing arms extending outwardly from a central body, wherein the opposing arms are configured to secure an object in either a vertical orientation or a horizontal orientation relative to the mounting surface.

2. The surface-mounting device of claim 1, wherein the opposing arms of the cleat hook are configured to distribute the weight of a suspended object laterally to prevent torque-induced detachment of the suction cup when the device is adhered to a horizontal surface.

3. The surface-mounting device of claim 1, wherein the cleat hook forms part of the base and where the arms curve inwards toward the base for compact storage.

4. The surface-mounting device of claim 1, wherein the lever mechanism comprises a rod connected to the suction cup that passes through the base, and wherein engaging the lever retracts the rod to deform the suction cup.

5. The surface-mounting device of claim 4, further comprising a spring element disposed over the rod, configured to bias the suction cup toward a deactivated state when the lever is disengaged.

6. The surface-mounting device of claim 1, wherein the suction cup is comprised of silicon.

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