Adjustable Picture Hanger With Sliding Carriage and Latch

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional picture frame hangers require precise measurements for initial installation and do not allow for easy vertical adjustment of the picture frame after mounting, necessitating re-nailing to change the frame's position.

Innovation Solution

An adjustable picture frame hanger with an elongate strip and carriage system that includes transverse teeth and a latch mechanism, allowing for selective adjustment of the frame's vertical position without re-nailing, featuring a keyway for orientation and a flange for securing the frame, along with a method for forming an angled aperture for secure mounting.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional hooks are used for mounting picture frames, then the installation is simple and secure, but the picture frame cannot be adjusted vertically after mounting

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevertical adjustabilityVSAvoidhanger structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The hanger is divided into two main segments: a stationary elongate strip mounted to the wall and a movable carriage that slides along the strip. This segmentation allows the picture frame to be adjusted vertically by moving the carriage while the strip remains fixed, providing adaptability without requiring complete reinstallation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The carriage is designed to be dynamically movable along the elongate strip through a latch mechanism that can be engaged or disengaged. When the latch is disengaged, the carriage can slide to different vertical positions; when engaged, it secures the picture frame at the desired position, combining ease of adjustment with stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If traditional hooks require precise measurements for installation, then the mounting is secure, but any position change requires re-nailing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverepositioning easeVSAvoidtime for re-nailing
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The carriage can be easily moved along the elongate strip by simply disengaging the latch mechanism, allowing quick repositioning without any tools or re-nailing. This dynamic adjustment capability significantly reduces the time and effort required to change picture frame positions compared to traditional fixed hooks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The elongate strip acts as an intermediary element mounted once to the wall, while the carriage serves as a movable intermediary between the strip and the picture frame. This intermediary system eliminates the need for direct re-attachment to the wall when adjusting positions, saving time and effort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the hanger allows vertical adjustment, then flexibility is improved, but the risk of accidental disengagement increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition flexibilityVSAvoidlatch engagement stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The latch mechanism is designed with a bias that keeps it naturally engaged with the transverse teeth on the elongate strip, providing reliable retention. However, the latch can be easily disengaged by applying modest force in the direction of movement, allowing intentional adjustment while preventing accidental disengagement through its biased design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The latch mechanism incorporates a bias that cushions against accidental disengagement by requiring intentional force to overcome the bias and release the latch. This beforehand cushioning ensures that normal vibrations or minor forces during picture hanging do not cause unintended position changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS8376308B2Adjustable picture hanger
Publication Date: 2013.02.19 DESIGN FOR LIFE
  • US8376308B2 patent drawing
  • US8376308B2 patent drawing
  • US8376308B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A picture frame hanger is provided with an elongate strip having a base for mounting upon an upright support surface. The base includes at least one cavity extending inward from opposing surfaces to intersect and collectively form an aperture for receiving a fastener at an angle to one of the at least one cavities. The strip includes a series of teeth and a key along a length of the strip. A carriage is mounted for translation along the elongate strip, and includes a keyway that cooperates with the key for orienting the carriage relative to the strip. A flange is provided for receiving a picture frame support member. A latch is pivotally connected to the carriage for engaging the teeth. A user may disengage the latch from the strip for adjusting an upright position of the carriage. A method for forming the aperture of the elongate strip is provided.