Adjustable fixture support magnet, and related system and method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for repositioning fixtures on walls, such as adhesive strips, are limited in weight support, prone to adhesive loss, and can damage surfaces, necessitating costly professional help and generating waste.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable fixture support magnet system comprising a magnet, receptacle, cover, and base with screw threads, along with a locking mechanism, allows for secure and adjustable mounting of fixtures without damaging walls, using magnetic plates and support brackets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If adhesive strips are used to support fixtures, then installation is simple and repositioning is possible, but weight support is limited and adhesive strength is lost over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces adhesive bonding (chemical mechanism) with a magnetic field-based holding system. Magnetic plates are installed in wall cavities during construction, and fixtures with magnets can be positioned and held by magnetic attraction without adhesives, solving both the weight support limitation and adhesive degradation issues while maintaining ease of installation and repositioning
Solution Approach 2:
Magnetic plates are pre-installed in wall cavities during the construction phase before fixtures are mounted. This preliminary action enables future fixtures to be easily positioned and removed without damage to walls or fixtures, addressing the need for both strong holding capacity and repositioning ability
2Strength
If fixtures are mounted to walls with screws, then strong support is achieved, but wall damage occurs during removal and repositioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical screw-fastening systems with a magnetic field-based holding mechanism. Magnetic plates embedded in wall cavities provide strong holding force through magnetic attraction, eliminating the need for screws that damage walls during installation and removal, thus solving both the strength and wall damage issues simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
Magnetic plates serve as intermediary elements installed in wall cavities that mediate between the wall structure and fixtures. These plates provide the magnetic field necessary for strong, non-damaging attachment, allowing fixtures to be mounted and removed without direct mechanical contact that would damage the wall surface
3Adaptability or versatility
If adhesive strips are used for temporary installation, then repositioning without damage is possible, but surface damage still occurs and adhesive loses strength
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces adhesive-based temporary mounting with a magnetic field system. Magnetic plates in wall cavities provide reversible, non-damaging attachment that maintains full repositioning capability without the surface damage or strength degradation associated with adhesives over time
4Reliability
If professional contractors are hired for fixture installation, then proper installation is ensured, but cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical fastening systems requiring professional skill with a simple magnetic attachment system. Homeowners can easily position and attach fixtures using magnets without needing drilling, screwing, or specialized tools, thereby ensuring reliable installation while eliminating the need for professional contractors
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables easy repositioning and removal of fixtures, reducing waste and damage, supporting heavy loads, and eliminating the need for professional assistance.
Implementation Method 1
positioning the rear face of the at least one fixture parallel to and proximate the at least one magnetic plate
Data Source
AI summary
The present specification relates generally to devices, methods and systems for installing fixtures, and more specifically to an adjustable fixture support magnet and a related method and system. The adjustable fixture support magnet comprises a magnet; a receptacle configured to receive the magnet; a cover, comprising an external first screw thread; a locking mechanism removably connecting the receptacle with the cover; and a base, comprising an internal second screw thread corresponding to the first screw thread. The system for magnetically mounting at least one fixture comprises at least one fixture support magnet; at least one support bracket; and at least one magnetic plate. A method of magnetically mounting at least one fixture is also provided.